bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital Dermatofibrosarcoma Presenting as an Atrophic Plaque
Authors: Koblinski Jenna , Nalovic Katarina
Published: November 2024

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare sarcoma that most commonly occurs on the trunk of adult patients. However, DFSP can present congenitally, and this rarity may lead to misdiagnosis or late diagnosis. The authors present a case of a congenital DFSP that was not diagnosed until the patient was 17 years old. Her tumour was successfully treated with Mohs micrographic surgery. It is important to have DFSP on the differential for atrophic plaques or violaceous to red-brown nodules, even at a young age.
Changes in Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Goryeo Dynasty Bronze Vessels with Manufacturing Process
Authors: Kim So Jin , Kim Young Do
Published: November 2024

Bronze vessels are manufactured using casting and forging techniques, and various microstructures can be observed depending on the manufacturing process. In this study, we confirmed mechanical properties and microstructural evolution in the manufacturing process by observing the microstructures and composition analysis of 18 bronze vessels in the Goryeo Dynasty excavated from historical sites. The results show that 13 of the bronze vessels were manufactured using a Cu-Sn alloy with a Sn content of 20 to 24 wt%. The α phase and β(M) phase were observed, indicating that hot forging and quenching treatment were performed after casting. 3 bronze vessels were produced from a Cu-Sn-Pb alloy, and considering that the α phase and α+δ phase were observed, it could be seen that the process was completed by slow cooling after casting. The correlation between the type of bronze vessel and the manufacturing process has not been confirmed, except of ewer. It was confirmed that various microstructures were created depending on the manufacturing process and that the mechanical properties also changed. Bronze vessels composed of the α phase and α+δ phase due to the casting process had lower Vickers hardness values compared to bronze vessels that showed the quenched β(M) or γ phase. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) phase analysis and kernel average misorientation (KAM) were performed using six bronze vessels composed of α and β(M) phases. The results showed that the factors affecting hardness were the ratio of the β(M) phase and the KAM value. However, it could not be confirmed to what extent the ratio of the β(M) phase and KAM value affected the improvement in mechanical properties.
The Effect of Compensatory Strategies on EFL Pupils’ Achievement
Authors: Erzooqi Selma Mahmoud , Hassan Kanaan K.
Published: November 2024

The current study aims at investigating the effect of compensatory strategies on EFL Iraqi pupils' achievement. To achieve the aims of this study one hypothesis assumes to be established. There is no statistically significant difference between the mean scores of experimental groups who is taught by compensatory strategies and control group who is taught by traditional method in post achievement test. For carrying out the aim of the study, and validating its hypothesis, a sample of fifty pupils have been randomly chosen from the fifth-preparatory class in Al-Alam Secondary School for Boys, during the academic year 2021-2022. The two groups are equally divided into, group (A) represents experimental group that consists of (25) pupils who has been taught according to compensatory strategies. Group (B) signifies control group which also includes (25) pupils who has been taught according to the traditional method. Making a pre and post achievement test. Both groups have been equalized in such variables from educational level of parents, English marks achievement in preceding schooling year, and the pretest of both groups. Five questions are composed to combine a post-test. Alpha-Cronbach techniques have been used to confirm the reliability coefficient. The discriminating power and difficulty level for each item have been determined via statistical analysis of the items. The entire sample has been exposed to the post-test as a result. The data gathered from the post-test findings have been statistically examined using the formula for the T-test of two independent and paired samples. According to the results, there is a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the experimental group who taught by using Compensatory Strategies and the control group who taught by using the traditional method; there is also a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the experimental group in the pre-post achievement test. Based on the findings and conclusions of this study, appropriate recommendations and suggestions for future studies are made.
Processing information for university students
Authors: Musa MernaWatheq Omar ,Amin Razaw Muhammad Muhammad
Published: November 2024

The current research aims to identify: the academic buoyancy of university students. - The differences in academic buoyancy among university students according to the variables of gender (male-female), specialization (scientific-human), and stage (first and fourth). Sample: The study was limited to a random sample of college students The University of Kirkuk, according to the gender variable (male - female), specializations (scientific - humanitarian) and stages (first - fourth), where the study sample was surprised (260) students, including (130) students of scientific specialization (130) male and female students of humanitarian specialization. To achieve the objectives of the research, the researcher prepared a scale (academic buoyancy), using the following statistical means (chi-square, Pearson correlation coefficient, Facronbach equation and t-test for one sample and for two independent samples).
The Importance of Wholesome Scattering Game students in Improving EFL Students’ Achievement in Learning English Language
Authors: Mousa Manal Omar , Akbar Maryam Ahmed
Published: November 2024

The present study aims to find out the effect of wholesome scattering game to improving students’ skills in learning English language. the sample of the study is the second-grade students in university of Tikrit of collage for woman to develop students’ achievement in English language. The researcher depended on the experimental design; she selects (67) students studying at collage for women whom they are divided into two groups. The first group is the control group consist (34) students and the second group are experimental group consist (33) students. Accomplishment exam served as a posttest to assess any potential discrepancies between two groups as well as the effect at wholesome scattering game as a way to discuss their progresses in the English languages so the findings of the study show that there are statistically significant differences between the students’ achievement in the Experimental group in the pre-test and their performance in the post-test in favor of the wholesome scatting game strategy.
Iraqi EFL Students’ Perceptions Towards Entertainment And Rigorous Learning
Authors: Yaseen AL Shaima'a Hassany
Published: November 2024

This study aims to investigate Iraqi students’ perceptions towards entertainment and rigorous learning at the College of Education for the woman/university of Tikrit. Educational computer game research expanded rapidly as a result of the widespread perception among younger generations that games might provide several educational advantages. It is useful to understand how educational games can help strengthen the engagement and learning perceptions of our students towards technology in the light of intensive teaching activities and the actions of teachers to build a respectful, constructive learning atmosphere for the conduct of students towards each other and the rate and level of involvement of students in class discussion. The tool of the study is a questionnaire checklist from strongly agree to disagree strongly. The sample of the study consists of 82 (female) participants at the English department/university of Tikrit. This paper investigates two aspects of learning and comprehensive learning for educational games. The results demonstrated that the majority of students were more motivated to learn programming through the use of games than through traditional methods, fostering hopeful attitudes. Hopefully, the results would serve to enrich information in recognizing the attitudes of students about educational learning games, with the outcome of the exchange for rigorous learning revealing that students have negative perceptions about several points that respect teachers for students, weak cooperative work, and guidelines for respect during class conduct.
Academic passion among graduate students
Authors: Ramadan Esraa Thamer ,Abdulkarim Nabil Abdel Aziz
Published: November 2024

The current research aims to discover the level of academic passion among graduate students. The statistically significant differences in academic passion according to the variable (gender – specialization). The current study consisted of (300) male and female graduate students at the University of Tikrit, and the researchers prepared the academic passion scale, which consisted of (30) items. The results were shown as follows: The high level of academic passion among postgraduate students. There are no statistically significant differences in the level of academic passion according to the variables (gender – specialization).
Obesity and Beyond: The Novel Technical Standard to Study the Small Bowel Microbiome
Authors: Brimberry Daniel , Leite Gabriela , Pimentel Mark , Barlow Gillian M , Mathur Ruchi
Published: November 2024

The small intestinal microbiome (SIM) is colonized by a variety of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and eukarya which contribute to the overall health of the human host. Commensal bacteria of the small intestine are crucial suppliers of essential nutrients, aid in the metabolism of indigestible carbohydrates, provide defenses against pathogenic bacteria, and are critical components of the mucosal architecture. Initial work in this field focused on characterization using stool as a surrogate for the whole gut microbiome due to ease and frequency of collection. Most of the literature continues to use stool as the vehicle for gut microbial analysis. However, studying only stool is limited due to significant variances of structure, environment, and ecology which exist along the length of the gastrointestinal tract. These variances are significant enough that studying only stool does not reflect the microbial composition of the small intestine, requiring a new approach to accurately characterize the relationship between the SIM and host physiology. Our most recent work characterizes the SIM in people with normal and elevated body weights (overweight and obesity); we identified key genera associated with elevated body weight, as well as escalation factors, de-escalation factors, and associated predicted pathways that may represent potential targets for future therapeutics.
One-to-one Benefit Provided by Antioxidants to Cultured Skin Fibroblasts from Friedreich Ataxia Patients
Authors: Bénit Paule , Rak Malgorzata , Rustin Pierre
Published: November 2024

As to better understand and characterize the dramatic differences in antioxidant response of human cells harboring mutations in the frataxin gene responsible for Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), we studied primary cultures of skin fibroblasts derived from five FRDA patients with different major frataxin gene expansion sizes. Since oxidative stress has been previously established to play a critical role in FRDA, among the many enzymes that may modulate oxidative stress sensitivity, we selected some that have previously been shown to be critical in oxidative stress. However, we were unable to identify a consistent index to rank individual cultures based on these measures. We therefore focused our study on FRDA fibroblast cell death and its modulation by different antioxidants under culture conditions that exacerbate oxidative stress sensitivity. Under conditions that require cells to rely on mitochondrial activity, we observed significant but variable effect on FRDA cell proliferation. These conditions were then used to test the efficacy to prevent or slow down cell death, of a panel of antioxidant molecules targeting different steps of the pro-oxidant cascade previously documented in FRDA, namely uridine, pyruvate, and pioglitazone. We observed a surprising variability in the response of patient fibroblasts to antioxidant molecules even using similar culture conditions. We conclude that the individual-specific response already discernible at the cellular level may well play an important role in the frequent difficulties encountered in reaching definitive conclusions when testing the ability of antioxidants to counteract the consequences of frataxin depletion, a conclusion that may apply to clinical trials as well.
Computation of Novel Binomial Series and Theorems using Multivariable Geometric Series
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: November 2024

Nowadays, the growing complexity of mathematical and computational modelling demands the simplicity of mathematical equations for solving today’s scientific problems and challenges. In this paper, the author introduces a novel binomial series and its theorems using the multivariable geometric series, where multivariable geometric series is a geometric series having more than one variable. This computing technique can enable the researchers for further involvement in research and development.
Effectiveness of Implementing Single Identity Number (SIN) Through NIK Becomes NPWP for Tax Compliance
Authors: Indriani Hapipi , Norhamida Hana
Published: November 2024

The inadequate and ineffective tax administration system in Indonesia has a negative impact on taxpayer compliance in carrying out their tax obligations, such as the tax reporting process is often complicated and time-consuming, thus burdening taxpayers, especially those who run small or medium businesses. The implementation of the Single Identity Number (SIN) through the Population Identification Number (NIK) to the Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP) in Indonesia starting on January 1, 2024, is a major step in efforts to improve tax compliance. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of the implementation of SIN through NIK to NPWP on tax compliance as tax administration in Indonesia. This study uses a literature study approach which is a combination of previous research by collecting data from various sources such as scientific journals, news articles, and government regulations which will then find enormous potential in expanding the tax base in increasing taxpayer compliance to carry out tax obligations through the SIN system. The results obtained from this study indicate that the implementation of SIN through NIK to NPWP has a positive impact on increasing tax compliance in Indonesia, such as more effective and easier tax administration with the simplification of tax administration and increased tax revenue. However, despite having various positive impacts, there are several challenges that need to be considered to maximize the effectiveness of the integration, such as the need for socialization and education to the community throughout Indonesia, the need for readiness in terms of information technology infrastructure to support the integration in a sustainable manner, and the need for certainty of good protection of taxpayers' personal data. So, it can be concluded that implementing the integration of NIK and NPWP through the SIN system can have impressive results in improving tax compliance in Indonesia.
Application of Android-Based Applications to Make It Easier to Record Micro Business Finances (Quuena Store Case Study)
Authors: Aprilia Visi , Furqorina Rizqa
Published: November 2024

The current development of information and communication technology has many benefits for human life, not only in the social but cultural, educational and economic fields. One use in the economic sector is in the financial services sector, namely the existence of a digital financial recording system in the form of an Android-based application. Financial recording is the process of recording transactions for a period, where this recording report will be used to make decisions and monitor the business being carried out.This research was conducted on MSMEs in Singajaya Village, the object of this research is business actors engaged in products and services, namely "Queena Store" which is located at Jl. CITRA No.12 Block XX Singajaya Village, this research is based on the problem where financial recording at the Queena Store still uses a manual system because the business owner does not understand technology. The purpose of this research is to help business actors implement a new accounting bookkeeping system and analyze its use in using the Android-based financial recording application, namely Akuntansiku, so that the recording process can be easier, faster and have accurate results. Tags research method is descriptive qualitative, which aims to provide a systematic understanding based on facts as it is about how to implement financial records based on the Android-based Akuntansiku application at the Queena Store.
Finite element analysis of maxillary orthodontic therapies with variable alveolar bone grafts under occlusal forces in patient with unilateral cleft lip and palate
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Li Chenghao , Zheng Qian , Shi Bing , Liu Renkai
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the biomechanical effects of maxillary orthodontic treatment on different alveolar bone grafting positions loaded with occlusal forces in an unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) patient.

Methods

Finite element analysis was employed to simulate clinical scenarios more accurately by loading with occlusal forces on 8 bone-grafted models during maxillary orthodontic treatment. Displacement and von Mises stress pattern during maxillary protraction, expansion, and combined protraction and expansion were analyzed.

Results

The seven bone-grafted models exhibited significantly smaller horizontal displacements at the non-cleft side landmarks during maxillary protraction and expansion compared to non-bone grafted models. Additionally, alveolar cleft bone grafted in the upper 1/3 and middle 1/3 exhibited greater asymmetry displacement and stress under maxillary protraction and expansion.

Conclusion

The study highlights the necessity of considering occlusal forces in finite element study on orthodontic therapies for UCLP patients. The upper 1/3 and middle 1/3 bone graft conditions may require secondary bone graft supplementation to ensure the effectiveness of maxillary orthodontic treatment.
Role of ABCC5 in cancer drug resistance and its potential as a therapeutic target
Authors: Pan Yinlong , Wu Mengmeng , Cai Huazhong
Published: November 2024

Over 90% of treatment failures in cancer therapy can be attributed to multidrug resistance (MDR), which can develop intracellularly or through various routes. Numerous pathways contribute to treatment resistance in cancer, but one of the most significant pathways is intracellular drug efflux and reduced drug concentrations within cells, which are controlled by overexpressed drug efflux pumps. As a member of the family of ABC transporter proteins, ABCC5 (ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily C Member 5) reduces the intracellular concentration of a drug and its subsequent effectiveness using an ATP-dependent method to pump the drug out of the cell. Numerous studies have demonstrated that ABCC5 is strongly linked to both poor prognosis and poor treatment response. In addition, elevated ABCC5 expression is noted in a wide variety of malignancies. Given that ABCC5 is regulated by several pathways in a broad range of cancer types, it is a prospective target for cancer treatment. This review examined the expression, structure, function, and role of ABCC5 in various cancer types.
Multi-season evaluation of hurricane analysis and forecast system (HAFS) quantitative precipitation forecasts
Authors: Newman Kathryn M. , Nelson Brianne , Biswas Mrinal , Pan Linlin
Published: November 2024

Quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPF) from numerical weather prediction models need systematic verification to enable rigorous assessment and informed use, as well as model improvements. The United States (US) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently made a major update to its regional tropical cyclone modeling capabilities, introducing two new operational configurations of the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS). NOAA performed multi-season retrospective forecasts using the HAFS configurations during the period that the Hurricane Weather and Forecasting (HWRF) model was operational, which was used to assess HAFS performance for key tropical cyclone forecast metrics. However, systematic QPF verification was not an integral part of the initial evaluation. The first systematic QPF evaluation of the operational HAFS version 1 configurations is presented here for the 2021 and 2022 season re-forecasts as well as the first HAFS operational season, 2023. A suite of techniques, tools, and metrics within the enhanced Model Evaluation Tools (METplus) software suite are used. This includes shifting forecasts to mitigate track errors, regridding model and observed fields to a storm relative coordinate system, as well as object oriented verification. The HAFS configurations have better performance than HWRF for equitable threat score (ETS), but larger over forecast biases than HWRF. Storm relative and object oriented verification show the HAFS configurations have larger precipitation areas and less intense precipitation near the TC center as compared to observations and HWRF. HAFS QPF performance decreased for the 2023 season, but the general spatial patterns of the model QPF were very similar to 2021-2022.
High-resolution isochronous stratigraphic framework through well-seismic integration in tight sandstone: a case study of Luodai gas field, Sichuan, China
Authors: Luo Chuanjiang , Wang Changcheng , Lu Gang , Zhang Sheng , Lan Zhiguio , Li Tang , Dong Ruibin , Sun Jiaqian , Huang Lisheng
Published: November 2024

Tight gas sandstone represents a significant unconventional resource extensively discovered across numerous sedimentary basins around the world. Tight sandstone reservoirs are characterized by low porosity, low permeability, variable source material, rapid spatial and temporal changes, poor reservoir properties, and strong heterogeneity. Traditional geophysical methods struggle to meet the demands of exploration and development of these types of reservoirs. This study applies a high-precision comparative approach using well-seismic integration to establish a relative isochronous stratigraphic framework. Based on this framework, extracting seismic properties can effectively predict tight sandstone reservoirs. This paper, focusing on the Penglaizhen Formation in the Luodai Gas Field of the Western Sichuan Jurassic system. This entire process accomplished in three steps: starting with regional marker layers as the initial framework; followed by the establishment of a relative isochronous framework through precise well-seismic integration; and finally stratigraphic slicing techniques to delineate isochronous stratigraphic framework with shorter time intervals. Thereby enhancing the reliability of subsurface stratigraphic information and data accuracy. The study posits that current technological means cannot create a truly isochronous stratigraphic framework; thus, “isochronous” is considered a relative concept in this context. The framework aims to ensure temporal consistency by minimizing discrepancies through mutual constraints between well and seismic data, serving to exploration and development requirements. Furthermore, analyses such as sensitive attribute extraction, impedance inversion, and assessment of hydrocarbon potential in tight sandstone reservoirs demonstrate strong correlation with drilling results. This validation underscores the framework’s efficacy in interpreting industrial gas production flows, thereby providing robust support for future oil and gas exploration.
Analogue modelling of conjugate strike-slip faults
Authors: Xiao Kunze , Tong Hengmao
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Scaled analogue modelling had become a powerful tool used by structural geologists to study the geometries and evolution of faults.

Methods

We had successfully simulated the geometry and progressive evolution of conjugate strike-slip faults in three sets of symmetric models with varying sandpack thicknesses and two sets of asymmetric models with different angles using scaled sandbox model. Three representative phases from all the models were described, and the structural characteristics of the different models were analyzed comparatively.

Results

The results show that well-defined X-shaped conjugate strikeslip faults developed in both the symmetric and asymmetric basement models, they had the same acute angle, and the direction of these angle bisectors was perpendicular to the extension direction. In addition, the development of conjugate strike-slip faults in the asymmetric basement was regionalized compared to the symmetric basement, where the two sets of faults less intersect in the model, and the regionality and asymmetry became more apparent as the degree of basement asymmetry increased.

Discussion

The Mohr space diagrams indicate that there are variations in the characteristics of the faults due to changes in the stress state of the model at different stages. In the asymmetric model, there are differences in the number of two faults developed and the intersection relationship in different regions due to the asymmetry in the distribution of the maximum principal stresses. Furthermore, we proposed two synoptic models, namely, the symmetric conjugate strike-slip fault system (SCSFS) model and the asymmetric conjugate strike-slip fault system (ACSFS) model, for conjugate strike-slip fault systems based on the results of the different models. The models and experimental results were compared with natural examples of the two sets of strike-slip fault systems in the Tabei uplift in China’s Tarim Basin, which exhibit many strong similarities in their structural geometries. The two synoptic models proposed based on the analogue models may provide useful templates for the seismic interpretation and mechanism of different types of conjugate strike-slip fault systems in nature and for inferring the orientation of the maximum principal stress.
Enhancing digital citizenship education in Saudi Arabian elementary schools: designing effective activities for curriculum integration
Authors: Alenezi Naji , Alfaleh Maha
Published: November 2024

In an era where digital technologies significantly influence children’s lives globally, promoting responsible digital citizenship is crucial to equip them with the skills to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. This study examines the integration and current state of Digital Citizenship Education (DCE) in Saudi Arabian elementary schools, assessing its alignment with international standards and identifying local challenges faced by educators, and pedagogical strategies used. Employing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data was collected through surveys from 398 teachers and qualitative insight gained from semi-structured interviews with 15 teachers. Quantitative analysis employed descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) to explore demographic influences on DCE practices. The findings reveal a strong emphasis on Digital Emotional Intelligence and Digital Security, Privacy, and Health and Wellness; however, significant gaps exist in Digital Participation and Agency, and Digital Footprint and Identity. These gaps are attributed to factors such as insufficient teacher training, lack of effective structured guidelines, and insufficient resources. Significant interaction effects between teachers’ demographics and DCE perceptions highlight the need for targeted professional development. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for enhancing curriculum integration, teacher training, and policy development to promote digital citizenship among elementary school students aligned with global standards.
Application of deep forest algorithm incorporating seasonality and temporal correlation for wind speed prediction in offshore wind farm
Authors: Fang Haipeng , Lin Shuo , Zhu Jinglin , Lu Weixiao
Published: November 2024

Accurate prediction of wind speed is a prerequisite for the safe and accurate operation of wind power generation, however, WRF models typically do not produce sufficiently accurate wind speed predictions. This study proposed a Seasonal and Temporal Correlation - Deep Forest (STC-DF) model for offshore wind speed prediction. Different from traditional methods, the STC-DF model takes the advantages of the deep forest algorithm to automatically learn complex feature interactions without manual feature engineering. The model is designed to capture the seasonal and temporal characteristics of wind speed variations. To test the effectiveness of the proposed method, we applied the trained STC-DF model to an offshore wind farm in Hainan Province, China. Seven days of data from each season were selected for testing. The results show that the STC-DF model can effectively reduce the error caused by WRF forecast. The error index of the corrected wind speed reduced more than 40%, the accuracy of wind speed forecast increased 15%. And the method passed the multi-model comparison test and robustness experiment. These research results show that the STC-DF model has strong versatility and good correction ability, and is suitable for wind speed forecasting in different regions, which is a feasible method to improve the reliability of offshore wind power generation.
Effect of green trade barriers on export enterprise green technological innovation from the perspective of the low-carbon city pilot policy
Authors: Xu Pei , Jin Zehu , Wu Xianghua
Published: November 2024

The low-carbon city pilot policy (LCCPP) is an important part of achieving “dual carbon” goals and promoting green technology innovation (GTI) in Chinese export enterprises. This study integrates Green Technical Barriers to Trade (GTBTs), LCCPP, and the GTI of exporting enterprises into a unified framework based on data from A-share market Chinese non-financial export enterprises from 2007 to 2021 and discusses how export enterprises should optimize green innovation resource structure with support from LCCPP to facilitate enterprise GTI when facing GTBTs. Several findings are uncovered: (1) GTBTs have a significant negative impact on the GTI of Chinese export enterprises, and the LCCPP significantly mitigates the negative impact of GTBTs on export enterprises’ GTI. (2) After distinguishing the heterogeneous characteristics of export enterprises, the moderating effect of the LCCPP becomes even more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises, general trade enterprises, and enterprises whose export destinations are high-income countries. (3) Further exploration of the moderating effect of the LCCPP with different policy instruments and intensities is needed. We found the best moderating effect on export enterprises’ GTI under high policy intensity, and only market-based policy instruments had a significant moderating effect. These findings provide direction for policymakers expanding the pilot scope of low-carbon cities as well as theoretical support for realizing foreign trade growth for sustainable development.
Neutrophil-activating protein in Bacillus spores inhibits casein allergy via TLR2 signaling
Authors: Liang Zhuwei , Zhang Chao , Liu Xiaoyu , Yang Kaiyue , Xiong Zhile , Liang Bingshao , Mai Jialiang , Xiao Xiaojun , Liu Jie , Yang Pingchang , Xu Damo , Zhou Zhenwen
Published: November 2024

Background

Milk allergy commonly occurs in children, mainly caused by bovine-derived casein (CAS) protein. Neutrophil-activating protein (NAP) of Helicobacter pylori plays an immunomodulatory role with potential to suppress Th2-type immune responses. Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) spores are commonly used as oral vectors for drug delivery.

Objective

To investigate whether recombinantly expressed NAP on B. subtilis spores could be an effective treatment for CAS allergy in mouse.

Methods

After CAS sensitization, mice were orally administered B. subtilis spores expressing recombinant NAP for 6 weeks. Allergic symptoms and parameters were evaluated after CAS challenge oral gavage, including allergic inflammation, splenic cytokines, and serum-specific antibodies. Protein levels of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and c-JUN in the jejunum tissue were measured by western blot. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were stimulated with inactivated NAP spores to measure the influence on cytokine profiles in vitro.

Results

NAP recombinant spore treatment significantly reduced allergic symptoms and intestinal inflammation. Interleukin-12 and interferon-gamma levels increased, whereas serum CAS-specific IgG1 and IgE levels decreased. TLR2 and c-JUN expression levels were elevated in the jejunal tissue. Inactivated NAP spores polarized BMDMs to the M1 phenotype and enhanced cytokine expression, which were inhibited by a TLR2 neutralizing antibody.

Conclusion

NAP offers a new strategy in the treatment of CAS allergy by inhibiting the Th2 response, while eliciting macrophages to promote Th1 immune responses.
Effects of green tea based oral health strategies on disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lan Sanrong , Jin Shuang , Lin Rong , Chen Baochuan , Gao Fei , Zhang Shengli , Chen Lili , Li Hong
Published: November 2024

Aim

In this study, we aimed to evaluate oral health strategies in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with periodontitis.

Methods

We enrolled 110 RA patients with periodontitis who were diagnosed in a Grade A tertiary hospital into an oral health strategies program. The control and test groups comprised 55 cases each. The management effect was evaluated by self-care ability, oral health-related quality of life, RA-related clinical indicators, and the DAS28 score. The control group received routine nursing, whereas the test group was in a self-health management program for 3 months.

Results

After the intervention, compared to the control group, the test group showed better self-care ability, oral health-related quality of life score, RA-related clinical indicators, and DAS28 score (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our oral health strategies program slowed down the progression of the disease and can be popularized in patients.
The performance of AI in medical examinations: an exploration of ChatGPT in ultrasound medical education
Authors: Hong Dao-Rong , Huang Chun-Yan
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of ChatGPT in the context of China’s Intermediate Professional Technical Qualification Examination for Ultrasound Medicine, exploring its potential role in ultrasound medical education.

Methods

A total of 100 questions, comprising 70 single-choice and 30 multiple-choice questions, were selected from the examination’s question bank. These questions were categorized into four groups: basic knowledge, relevant clinical knowledge, professional knowledge, and professional practice. ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4.0 were tested, and accuracy was measured based on the proportion of correct answers for each version.

Results

ChatGPT 3.5 achieved an accuracy of 35.7% for single-choice and 30.0% for multiple-choice questions, while version 4.0 improved to 61.4 and 50.0%, respectively. Both versions performed better in basic knowledge questions but showed limitations in professional practice-related questions. Version 4.0 demonstrated significant improvements across all categories compared to version 3.5, but it still underperformed when compared to resident doctors in certain areas.

Conclusion

While ChatGPT did not meet the passing criteria for the Intermediate Professional Technical Qualification Examination in Ultrasound Medicine, its strong performance in basic medical knowledge suggests potential as a supplementary tool in medical education. However, its limitations in addressing professional practice tasks need to be addressed.
Comparison of Scheimpflug tomography, Placido disc, and combined Placido Scheimpflug in the measurement of pupil offset in myopic population
Authors: Ning Jiliang , Zhang Lijun
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to compare the consistency of pupil offset measurements obtained using the Pentacam, Keratron Scout, and Sirius devices.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study included 146 young myopic individuals (292 eyes) scheduled for refractive surgery at Dalian Third People’s Hospital between January 2023 and December 2023. Three devices were utilized to measure the chord mu of the pupil deviation along with the Cartesian distances of the X and Y coordinates (Px, Py) associated with the pupil offset. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to compare differences in pupil offset acquisition across various devices. Additionally, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland–Altman plot were utilized to assess the consistency among the three devices.

Results

Chord mu, measured using the Pentacam, Keratron Scout, and Sirius devices, were 0.18 ± 0.10, 0.21 ± 0.11, and 0.18 ± 0.11, respectively. The Px values were 0.00 ± 0.14, -0.02 ± 0.16, and -0.01 ± 0.13, respectively, while the Py values were 0.09 ± 0.13, 0.10 ± 0.15, and 0.10 ± 0.13. The ICCs for the three device measurements, chord mu, Px, and Py, were 0.817, 0.900, and 0.855, respectively. When comparing the three devices, the 95% limits of agreement (LoA) for mu and Px measured using the Sirius and Keratron Scout were the narrowest, ranging from −0.15 to 0.08 and −0.11 to 0.13, respectively. Additionally, the 95% LoA for Py measured using the Sirius and Pentacam was the narrowest, ranging from −0.13 to 0.15. The pupil centers in both eyes were predominantly located above the apex of the cornea.

Conclusion

Sirius, Keratron Scout, and Pentacam have good consistency in pupil shift measurement in young myopic patients, and the three devices can be used as references in clinical practice.
Innovative strategies and challenges mosquito-borne disease control amidst climate change
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wang Minhao , Huang Mingliu , Zhao Jinyi
Published: November 2024

The revival of the transmission dynamics of mosquito-borne diseases grants striking challenges to public health intensified by climate change worldwide. This inclusive review article examines multidimensional strategies and challenges linked to climate change and the epidemiology of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. It delves into how the biology, pathogenic dynamics, and vector distribution of mosquitoes are influenced by continuously rising temperatures, modified rainfall patterns, and extreme climatic conditions. We also highlighted the high likelihood of malaria in Africa, dengue in Southeast Asia, and blowout of Aedes in North America and Europe. Modern predictive tools and developments in surveillance, including molecular gears, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing have boosted our capacity to predict epidemics. Integrated data management techniques and models based on climatic conditions provide a valuable understanding of public health planning. Based on recent data and expert ideas, the objective of this review is to provide a thoughtful understanding of existing landscape and upcoming directions in the control of mosquito-borne diseases regarding changing climate. This review determines emerging challenges and innovative vector control strategies in the changing climatic conditions to ensure public health.
Microbial degradation mechanisms of the neonicotinoids acetamiprid and flonicamid and the associated toxicity assessments
Authors: Sun Shilei , Guo Jingjing , Zhu Zhi , Zhou Jiangsheng
Published: November 2024

Extensive use of the neonicotinoid insecticides acetamiprid (ACE) and flonicamid (FLO) in agriculture poses severe environmental and ecological risks. Microbial remediation is considered a feasible approach to address these issues. Many ACE-and FLO-degrading microorganisms have been isolated and characterized, but few reviews have concentrated on the underlying degradation mechanisms. In this review, we describe the microbial degradation pathways of ACE and FLO and assess the toxicity of ACE, FLO and their metabolites. Especially, we focus on the enzymes involved in degradation of ACE and FLO, including cytochrome P450s, nitrile hydratases, amidases, and nitrilases. Those studies reviewed here further our understanding of the enzymatic mechanisms of microbial degradation of ACE and FLO, and aid in the application of microbes to remediate environmental ACE and FLO contamination.
Changes in the structure of the microbial community within the phycospheric microenvironment and potential biogeochemical effects induced in the demise stage of green tides caused by Ulva prolifera
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Zang Yu , Fan Shiliang , Miao Xiaoxiang , Fu Mingzhu , Ma Xiaojun , Li Mei , Zhang Xuelei , Wang Zongling , Xiao Jie
Published: November 2024

Green tides caused by Ulva prolifera occur annually in the Yellow Sea of China, and the massive amount of biomass decomposing during the demise stage of this green tide has deleterious ecological effects. Although microorganisms are considered key factors influencing algal bloom demise, an understanding of the microbial-algae interactions within the phycospheric microenvironment during this process is still lacking. Here, we focused on the variations in phycospheric microbial communities during the late stage of the green tide in three typically affected areas of the Yellow Sea via metagenomic sequencing analysis. In total, 16.9 million reads obtained from 18 metagenome samples were incorporated into the assembled contigs (13.4 Gbp). The phycosphere microbial community composition and diversity changed visibly during the demise of U. prolifera. The abundances of algae-lysing bacteria, Flavobacteriaceae at the family level and Alteromonas, Maribacter, and Vibrio at the genus level increased significantly in the phycosphere. In addition, the levels of glycoside hydrolases (GHs) and polysaccharide lyases (PLs) enzymes, which decompose U. prolifera polysaccharides in the phycosphere, were greater. Therefore, the degradation of algal polysaccharides can increase the efficiency of carbon metabolism pathways in the phycospheric microenvironment. Most of the genes detected in the phycosphere, especially norC, nrfA, and nasA, were associated with nitrogen metabolism pathways and showed dynamics related to the demise of the large amount of organic matter released by a green tide. Therefore, the demise of green tide algae may affect the potential carbon and nitrogen cycles of the phycospheric microenvironment by driving changes in the structure and diversity of microbial communities. Our research provides a novel perspective to better understand the ecological impact of U. prolifera during the green tide demise stage.
Causal association between Parkinson’s disease and cancer: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Tang Chunyan , Fu Ping , Lin Liangqing , Zhou Hui , Huang Yunjun , Li Yang , Zhao Sijun
Published: November 2024

Background

Previous observational research has indicated a correlation between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and multiple cancers; but the causality remains unclear. Thus, we utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the potential causal link between PD and various cancers.

Methods

We conducted a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) of genetic variants associated with PD and 14 types of cancers. Summary statistics on PD and 14 types of cancers were obtained from the International Parkinson’s Disease Genomics Consortium and the study by Sakaue et al. The primary method employed was inverse variance weighted (IVW), complemented by multiple sensitivity analyses to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy. The false discovery rate (FDR) was employed to control the false positive rate of multiple hypothesis testing.

Results

Following rigorous sensitivity analyses and corrections, our findings revealed suggestive associations between PD and certain cancers. We observed that PD decreases the risk of gastric cancer and colorectal cancer (OR = 0.936, 95% CI = 0.881–0.995, p = 0.034, P FDR = 0.239; OR = 0.955, 95% CI = 0.912–0.999, p = 0.046, P FDR = 0.215), while increasing the risk of breast cancer (OR = 1.043, 95% CI = 1.004–1.084, p = 0.029, P FDR = 0.402). Notably, we found no evidence supporting a reverse causal relationship. Additionally, in the reverse pathway, skin cancer demonstrated a suggestive causal relationship with PD (OR = 0.913, 95% CI = 0.857–0.973, p = 0.005, P FDR = 0.066).

Conclusion

Our MR analysis provides evidence supporting unidirectional suggestive causal relationships between PD and certain cancers. These findings enrich our comprehension of the intricate interplay between PD and cancer, warranting further investigation into the underlying biological mechanisms.
Surface electromyography character of upper limb muscle after open reduction combine with ulnar osteotomy in children with neglected Monteggia fracture
Authors: Qiu Hailing , Li Tingzhi , Li Fanling , Zhang Siqi , Wu Xiangling , Yang Jing , Li Xin , Fang Ke , Wen Jie , Xiao Sheng
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate the surface electromyography (sEMG) characteristics of upper limb muscles in children with neglected Monteggia fracture after open reduction of radial head dislocation and ulna osteotomy and bone grafting internal fixation, and to understand the recovery of muscle activity in children after operation, provide reference for clinical rehabilitation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on sixteen children with neglected Monteggia fracture who underwent ulna osteotomy at our hospital from January 2021 to August 2022. The biceps brachii, triceps brachii, flexor carpi radialis, and extensor carpi ulnaris muscle activities were recorded during grip strength tests, flexion and extension of elbow joint while holding a 1 kg dumbbell, as well as gripping tasks. The root mean square (RMS) values of sEMG signals, co-contraction ratio, and elbow joint function scores were compared between pre- and post-operation periods as well as between the affected side and unaffected side.

Results

The preoperative maximum grip strength, as well as the average RMS values of flexor carpi radialis and average RMS value of extensor carpi ulnaris on the affected side were significantly lower. After surgery, both the maximum RMS value of biceps brachii and maximum and average RMS value of extensor carpi ulnaris on the affected side remained lower. Prior to surgery, when performing elbow flexion and extension tests while holding a 1 kg dumbbell, both mean RMS values of biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis on the affected side were smaller. However, after surgery, there was an increase in mean RMS values of biceps brachii on the affected side. Furthermore, postoperative elbow function scores were significantly higher than preoperative scores.

Conclusion

Open reduction of radial head dislocation combined with ulna osteotomy and bone grafting can achieve good functional activities in the treatment of neglected Monteggia fractures in children. The EMG activity of the extensor carnosus ulnalis muscle on the affected side related to grip strength was low, and the desired effect was not achieved within the expected time.