bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OSMANLI DEVLETİ’NDE KADINLARIN NÜFUS SAYIMINA DAHİLİ VE BU SÜREÇTE YAŞANAN SORUNLAR
Authors: Yadi Ahmet , Ünlü Mucize
Published: June 2024

19. yüzyılda modernleşme yönünde atılan adımlar nüfus sayımı usulünün gelişmesinde de etkili olmuştur. Osmanlı Devleti’nde modern anlamda ilk nüfus sayımı II. Mahmut döneminde yapılmaya başlanmıştır. Sadece erkekleri kapsayan bu sayımın amacı asker kaynağı ve ekonomik durumu tespit etmekti. 19. yüzyılda istatistik biliminin de gelişmesiyle birlikte ülkeler gerekli planlamaları yaparak halkına daha iyi hizmet sunabilmek için gerçek nüfuslarını belirleme ihtiyacı duymuşlardır. Osmanlı Devleti’nde kadınların nüfus sayımlarına dahil edilmesi Sultan II. Abdülhamit döneminde gerçekleşmiştir. 1881 yılında yapılmaya başlanan sayımlara kadınlar da dahil edilerek nüfus kayıtlarında yer almışlardır. Ancak kadınların tamamının nüfusa kaydedilmesi mümkün olmamıştır. Özellikle aşiret yapısı ve kabilecilik anlayışının güçlü olduğu Balkanlar ve Orta Doğu’da bazı bölgelerde kadınların sayımında tepkilerle karşılaşılmıştır. Söz konusu tepkiler daha önceki sayımda erkeklerin fiziksel özelliklerinin nüfus kayıtlarına işlenmesinden ileri gelmekteydi. Tepki gösterenler kadınların da fiziksel özelliklerinin kayıtlara geçirileceğini düşünmekteydi. Osmanlı yöneticileri istatistik açısından kadınların isim ve yaş bilgilerine ihtiyaç duyulduğu ve sadece isim ve yaş bilgilerinin kayıt altına alınacağı yönünde açıklamalarda bulunmasına rağmen tepkilerin önüne geçememiştir. Tepkileri dikkate alan yetkililer bazı yerlerde kadınları nüfus sayımından istisna tutmak durumunda kalmıştır. Dolayısıyla istatistik amacıyla yapılan bu sayımda sayılamayan kadınlar olmuştur. Sayılamayan kadınlar, evlilik ve veraset işlemleri gibi konularda sorunlarla karşılaşmışlardır. Gerek bu tür sorunlar gerekse Osmanlı Devleti’nin modern anlamda nüfus işlemleri yürütmeye başlaması kadınların sayılmasını zorunlu kılmaktaydı. Bu çerçevede kadınların nüfusa kaydedilmesi için çaba sarf edildiği gibi yeni doğan kız çocuklarının nüfusa kaydedilmesi için de teşvik edici uygulamalarda bulunulmuştur. Bu çalışmada kadınların nüfus sayımına dahil edilmesi süreci ve bu süreçte karşılaşılan sorunlar örnekler üzerinden ele alınmıştır. Çalışmada ayrıca nüfus kaydı olup yaşları yanlış yazılan kadınlar, yeni doğan kız çocuklarının nüfusa kaydedilme süreci ve istatistiklerde kadınların nüfusu hakkında bilgiler sunulmuştur.
La Casa Real-Imperial de Tijuana: cultura, identidad y activismo gay-travesti en la frontera noroeste de México
Authors: González Romero Martín H
Published: June 2024

This article proposes to analyze the history of the Imperial-Royal Casa de Tijuana since its foundation in 1982. It explores the position of this group in the history of LGBTIQ+ mobilization in this region and proposes the analysis of a particular circuit of travesti and drag shows, through its study as a gay- travesti organization that supported LGBTIQ+ community projects. Based on research from the GLBT Historical Society Archives of San Francisco, this work studies the formation of spaces of sociability, solidarity, and mutual aid through the complex parody—of gender and royalty—carried out by the Empresses and Emperors of the Casa de Tijuana. This framework shows cross-border communication bridges and provides reflections about the spaces of freedom, as well as the colonial traits embedded in gay-travesti subculture.
Geleneksel ile günceli bir araya getirme çabası: Safranbolu evlerinin otel dönüşümünde odalarda görülen iç mekân değişiklikleri
Authors: Zengin Gözde
Published: June 2024

Kültür turizmi, çeşitli kültürlerin tarihini, sanatını, mimarisini ve geleneklerini keşfetmek amacıyla yapılan bir seyahat türüdür. Bu turizm biçimi, ziyaretçilere bölgenin zengin kültürel mirasını deneyimleme olanağı sunar ve bu tecrübe, kültürel mirasın korunmasının önemini vurgular. Safranbolu, kültür turizmi açısından özellikle eski çarşı bölgesi ve koruma altındaki tarihi evleri ile ünlüdür. Bu nedenle, bölge hem yerli hem de yabancı turistler için popüler bir ziyaret noktası haline gelmiştir. Bu çalışmada, tarihi evlerin otellere dönüştürülme sürecinde yaşanan değişimler ele alınmıştır. UNESCO tarafından koruma altına alınan tarihi Safranbolu konaklarından otel olarak hizmet verenler araştırma kapsamında incelenmiştir. Geleneksel mimari unsurlar ile modern tasarım anlayışının iç içe geçtiği bu süreçte, iç mekanlardaki değişiklikler otel odaları özelinde detaylı bir şekilde incelenmiştir. Geleneksel yapı elemanlarının korunarak modern konfor ve estetik anlayışının entegre edildiği örnekler, Safranbolu evlerinin otel fonksiyonu için nasıl uyarlandığını göstermektedir. Bu örnekler, tarihi dokunun korunması ve turistik konaklama ihtiyaçlarının dengelenmesi üzerine bir bakış sunmaktadır. Sonuç olarak başarılı bir dönüşüm için dikkatli planlama, yerel yönetimlerle işbirliği ve sürdürülebilir yöntemlerin geliştirilmesi gerekliliği ortaya çıkmaktadır.
Effect of 3D printing speed on mechanical and thermal properties of wood-PLA composite filament
Authors: Narlıoğlu Nasır
Published: June 2024

This study was carried out to examine the effect of the change in printing speed on the material properties of printing wood flour-filled filaments on a 3D printer. First, hornbeam wood flour was added to the Polylactic acid (PLA) polymer and then mixed in a twin-screw extruder, and then a wood-PLA composite filament with a diameter of 1.75 mm was produced. Then, test samples were printed from the produced wood-PLA composite filament at different printing speeds (40-50-60 mm/s) using a 3D printer. Tensile strength and hardness tests were performed to determine the mechanical properties of the 3D printed samples. According to the tensile strength test results, the tensile strengths of the 3D printed samples exhibited different values with the change in printing speed. The highest tensile strength value was determined as 23.02 MPa at a printing speed of 50 mm/s, and the lowest tensile strength value was 22.14 MPa at a printing speed of 40 mm/s. According to the Shore D test results, the lowest hardness value was measured as 85.33 at a printing speed of 40 mm/s, and the highest value was measured as 86.1 at a printing speed of 60 mm/s. The crystallinity percentage of PLA first increased and then decreased with the increase in 3D printing speed according to the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results. In addition, 3D printing speed did not have much effect on the melting temperatures of PLA.
Outdoor cultivation of Picochlorum sp. in a novel V-shaped photobioreactor on the Caribbean island Bonaire
Authors: Chin-On Rocca , de Boer Mila , van de Voort Cas , Camstra Juliëtte , Barbosa Maria , Wijffels René H. , Janssen Marcel
Published: June 2024

Microalgae are a promising renewable feedstock that can be produced on non-arable land using seawater. Their biomass contains proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and pigments, and can be used for various biobased products, such as food, feed, biochemicals, and biofuels. For such applications, the production costs need to be reduced, for example, by improving biomass productivity in photobioreactors. In this study, Picochlorum sp. (BPE23) was cultivated in a prototype of a novel outdoor V-shaped photobioreactor on Bonaire (12°N, 68°W). The novel photobioreactor design was previously proposed for the capture and dilution of sunlight at low-latitude locations. During several months, the biomass productivity of the local thermotolerant microalgae was determined at different dilution rates in continuous dilution and batch dilution experiments, without any form of temperature control. Reactor temperatures increased to 35°C–45°C at midday. In the continuous dilution experiments, high average biomass productivities of 28–31 g m−2 d−1 and photosynthetic efficiencies of 3.5%–4.3% were achieved. In the batch dilution experiments, biomass productivities were lower (17–23 g m−2 d−1), as microalgal cells likely experienced sudden light and temperature stress after daily reactor dilution. Nonetheless, dense cultures were characterized by high maximum photosynthetic rates, illustrating the potential of Picochlorum sp. for fast growth under outdoor conditions.
Moving inclusion forward for students with special educational needs in the Asia-Pacific region
Authors: Beamish Wendi , Hay Stephen , Yuen Mantak
Published: June 2024

This paper draws on a comparative study of seven jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region to examine current challenges to progressing inclusive education for students with special educational needs (SEN) in mainstream schools. The study used a qualitative approach to collect data from each jurisdiction through a purposive sampling of knowledgeable, university-associated informants. Content analysis was used to identify and quantify specific challenges reported in the data. Subsequently, these items were coded as themes to form a matrix of challenges within and across jurisdictions. Findings revealed that challenges were broadly consistent with recent global trends and shared many commonalities, despite occurring in diverse societal, political and education systems. These challenges are: lack of adequate initial teacher education and ongoing professional development for practicing teachers; lack of resources and support to meet the needs of students with SEN; inconsistent policy guidelines and implementation action plans; restricted stakeholder engagement and collaboration across all levels of education; and limited local inclusion research to inform practice in schools. The findings underscore the need for government and institutional commitment and oversight to bridge the policy-to-practice gap, and an urgent need for local research to identify and disseminate successful approaches for including students with SEN throughout the region.
Association between total cholesterol and all-cause mortality in oldest old: a national longitudinal study
Authors: Hu Fan , Wang Zhiqiang , Liu Yujie , Gao Ying , Liu Shangbin , Xu Chen , Wang Ying , Cai Yong
Published: June 2024

Background

A common sense is that lower serum cholesterol levels are better. However, a growing number of researches have questioned this especially for the oldest old. The current study was to assess the association between total cholesterol and all-cause mortality in a group of people aged 85 years old and over.

Methods

We selected 903 Chinese old participants who aged ≥85 years from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey(CLHLS) at baseline in 2012. The participants were followed up until death or until December 31, 2014. The outcome was all-cause mortality. The univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to estimate risk levels of all-cause mortality. We stratified the participants into three groups (<3.40, 3.40–4.39, ≥4.39 mmol/L) based on the restricted cubic splines methods. The survival probability according to total cholesterol category was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier curves, and the log-rank test was performed to analyze differences between the groups.

Results

During the follow-up of three years, 282 participants died, 497 survived and 124 lost to follow-up. There was significant relationship between the total cholesterol and lower risk of all-cause mortality in the multivariable Cox regression analysis (HR=0.88, 95% CI: 0.78–1.00). Based on the restricted cubic splines methods, the total cholesterol was converted from a continuous variable to a categorical variable. The populations were divided into three groups (<3.40, 3.40–4.39, ≥4.39 mmol/L) according to the total cholesterol categorized by cutoff values. Compared to the total cholesterol level of <3.40 mmol/L, populations in the total cholesterol level of 3.40–4.39 mmol/L (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.53–0.97) and ≥4.39 mmol/L (HR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52–0.96) groups had lower all-cause mortality in multivariate Cox regression analysis and higher survival probability in survival analysis. When two groups were divided, similar results were found among the populations in the total cholesterol level of ≥3.40 mmol/L compared to the populations in the total cholesterol level of <3.40 mmol/L groups.

Conclusion

In oldest old aged 85 and older, serum total cholesterol levels are inversely associated with all-cause mortality. This study suggested that total cholesterol should be maintained to acceptable levels (≥ 3.40 mmol/L) in oldest old to achieve longevity.
Air non-thermal plasma, a green approach for the treatment of contaminated water: the case of sulfamethoxazole
Authors: Giardina Agata , Lofrano Giusy , Libralato Giovanni , Siciliano Antonietta , Marotta Ester , Paradisi Cristina
Published: June 2024

Non-thermal plasma (NTP) is gaining increasing attention as a promising approach for advanced water treatment to degrade persistent organic pollutants. Aqueous solutions of sulfamethoxazole (4-amino-N-(5-methylisoxazol-3-yl)-benzensulfonamide, SMZ), an antibiotic largely employed for humans and animals and a widespread persistent pollutant of waters and wastewaters, were subjected to air NTP treatment in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor. The effects of SMZ initial concentration and of the solution pH on SMZ decomposition kinetics and transformation products were investigated. Efficient degradation was achieved, resulting in the complete removal of SMZ (10 μM initial concentration) in less than 25 min treatments, in the exhaustive mineralization (a result never reported before in plasma treatments and seldom reached also with other advanced oxidation processes) of all organic carbon in 6 h and in an energy efficiency of 6.4 g/kWh at 50% conversion. By means of HPLC-UV/Vis and LC-ESI-MSn analyses, a number of organic transformation products was identified along the path to SMZ mineralization, all present always in very small amounts and in turn decomposed at short treatment times. The effect of the solution pH on the genesis and decay of transformation products was also investigated. Based on comparisons with literature data and on previous findings obtained with the DBD reactor used in this work, it is concluded that the major reactive species involved in the degradation of SMZ are the hydroxyl radical and ozone. Finally, toxicological analyses of water initially containing 0.5 mM SMZ and subjected to 4 h NTP treatment showed that the by-products are not toxic to Raphidocelis subcapitata and Daphnia magna, while residual toxicity was detected by Aliivibrio fischeri.
Inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis share a common genetic structure
Authors: Cao Guoling , Luo Qinghua , Wu Yunxiang , Chen Guanghua
Published: June 2024

Background

The comorbidity rate of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is high; nevertheless, the reasons behind this high rate remain unclear. Their similar genetic makeup probably contributes to this comorbidity.

Methods

Based on data obtained from the genome-wide association study of IBD and RA, we first assessed an overall genetic association by performing the linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) analysis. Further, a local correlation analysis was performed by estimating the heritability in summary statistics. Next, the causality between the two diseases was analyzed by two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). A genetic overlap was analyzed by the conditional/conjoint false discovery rate (cond/conjFDR) method.LDSC with specific expression of gene analysis was performed to identify related tissues between the two diseases. Finally, GWAS multi-trait analysis (MTAG) was also carried out.

Results

IBD and RA are correlated at the genomic level, both overall and locally. The MR results suggested that IBD induced RA. We identified 20 shared loci between IBD and RA on the basis of a conjFDR of <0.01. Additionally, we identified two tissues, namely spleen and small intestine terminal ileum, which were commonly associated with both IBD and RA.

Conclusion

Herein, we proved the presence of a polygenic overlap between the genetic makeup of IBD and RA and provided new insights into the genetic architecture and mechanisms underlying the high comorbidity between these two diseases.
IL-3: key orchestrator of inflammation
Authors: Podolska Malgorzata J. , Grützmann Robert , Pilarsky Christian , Bénard Alan
Published: June 2024

Interleukin (IL)-3 has long been known for its hematopoietic properties. However, recent evidence has expanded our understanding of IL-3 function by identifying IL-3 as a critical orchestrator of inflammation in a wide array of diseases. Depending on the type of disease, the course of inflammation, the cell or the tissue involved, IL-3 promotes either pathologic inflammation or its resolution. Here, we describe the cell-specific functions of IL-3 and summarize its role in diseases. We discuss the current treatments targeting IL-3 or its receptor, and highlight the potential and the limitations of targeting IL-3 in clinics.
The Black Sea near-past wave climate and its variability: a hindcast study
Authors: Causio Salvatore , Federico Ivan , Jansen Eric , Mentaschi Lorenzo , Ciliberti Stefania Angela , Coppini Giovanni , Lionello Piero
Published: June 2024

This study analyzed the past wave climate of the Black Sea region for the period from 1988 to 2021. The wave field has been simulated using the state-of-the-art, third-generation wave model WAVEWATCH III forced by the ECMWF reanalysis ERA5 winds, with the model resolution being the highest ever applied to the region in a basin-scale climate study. The surface currents provided by the Copernicus Marine Service have been included in the wave model to evaluate wave–current interactions. The wave model results have been validated with respect to satellite and buoy observations, showing that the simulation accurately reproduces the past evolution of the wave field, exceeding 0.9 correlation with respect to satellite data. The inclusion of wave–current interaction has been positively evaluated. Four statistics (significant wave height 5th and 95th percentiles, mean, and maxima) have been used to describe the wave field at seasonal timescale, showing a clear distinction between the Western (rougher sea conditions) and Eastern (calmer sea conditions) sub-basins. Furthermore, the intra-annual wave climate variability has been investigated using a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Mann–Kendall test on significant wave height (SWH). This study represents the first time the PCA is applied to the region, identifying two main modes that highlight distinct features and seasonal trends in the Western and Eastern sub-basins. Throughout most seasons, the SWH trend is positive for the Eastern basin and negative for the Western basin. The PCA shows a regime shift with increasing eastward waves and decreasing north and north-eastward waves. Finally, SWH correlation (ρ) with four Teleconnection indexes (East Atlantic Pattern, Scandinavian Pattern, North Atlantic Oscillation, and East Atlantic/West Russia Pattern) revealed that the strongest ρ is observed with the Eastern–Atlantic–Western Russia teleconnection, with a peculiar spatial pattern of correlation, and is positive for the northwestern and negative for the southeastern sub-basin.
Association of serum ferritin and all-cause mortality in AKI patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ren Xiaoxu , Jiang Zhiming , Liu Fen , Wang Quanzhen , Chen Hairong , Yu Lifeng , Ma Chaoqun , Wang Rong
Published: June 2024

Background

Serum ferritin (SF) is clinically found to be elevated in many disease conditions, and our research examines serum ferritin in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and its implication on the risk of short-term mortality in AKI.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV 2.2 (MIMIC-IV 2.2) database. Adult patients with AKI who had serum ferritin tested on the first day of ICU admission were included. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to test the relationship between SF and clinical outcomes. Subgroup analyses based on the Cox model were further conducted.

Results

Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that a higher SF value was significantly associated with an enhanced risk of 28-day mortality, 90-day mortality, ICU mortality and hospital mortality (log-rank test: p < 0.001 for all clinical outcomes). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, high level of SF with mortality was significantly positive in all four outcome events (all p < 0.001). This result remains robust after adjusting for all variables. Subgroup analysis of SF with 28-day mortality based on Cox model-4 showed that high level of SF was associated with high risk of 28-day mortality in patients regardless of the presence or absence of sepsis (p for interaction = 0.730). Positive correlations of SF and 28-day mortality were confirmed in all other subgroups (p for interaction>0.05).

Conclusion

High level of SF is an independent prognostic predictor of 28-day mortality in patients with AKI.
Bioinformatic meta-analysis reveals novel differentially expressed genes and pathways in sarcoidosis
Authors: van Wijck Rogier T. A. , Sharma Hari S. , Swagemakers Sigrid M. A. , Dik Willem A. , IJspeert Hanna , Dalm Virgil A. S. H. , van Daele Paul L. A. , van Hagen P. Martin , van der Spek Peter J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a multi-system inflammatory disease of unknown origin with heterogeneous clinical manifestations varying from a single organ non-caseating granuloma site to chronic systemic inflammation and fibrosis. Gene expression studies have suggested several genes and pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis, however, due to differences in study design and variable statistical approaches, results were frequently not reproducible or concordant. Therefore, meta-analysis of sarcoidosis gene-expression datasets is of great importance to robustly establish differentially expressed genes and signalling pathways.

Methods

We performed meta-analysis on 22 published gene-expression studies on sarcoidosis. Datasets were analysed systematically using same statistical cut-offs. Differentially expressed genes were identified by pooling of p-values using Edgington’s method and analysed for pathways using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software.

Results

A consistent and significant signature of novel and well-known genes was identified, those collectively implicated both type I and type II interferon mediated signalling pathways in sarcoidosis. In silico functional analysis showed consistent downregulation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 signalling, whereas cytokines like interferons and transcription factor STAT1 were upregulated. Furthermore, we analysed affected tissues to detect differentially expressed genes likely to be involved in granuloma biology. This revealed that matrix metallopeptidase 12 was exclusively upregulated in affected tissues, suggesting a crucial role in disease pathogenesis.

Discussion

Our analysis provides a concise gene signature in sarcoidosis and expands our knowledge about the pathogenesis. Our results are of importance to improve current diagnostic approaches and monitoring strategies as well as in the development of targeted therapeutics.
Molecular epidemiology, antibiotic resistance profile and frequency of integron 1 and 2 in adherent-invasive Escherichia coli isolates of colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Heidari Aida , Emami Mohammad Hassan , Maghool Fatemeh , Mohammadzadeh Samane , Kadkhodaei Elyaderani Parisa , Safari Tahereh , Fahim Alireza , Kamali Dolatabadi Razie
Published: June 2024

This study explores the prevalence of adherent-invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and investigates the potential of effective intracellular antibiotics as a therapeutic strategy for CRC patients with AIEC infections. Considering the pivotal role of integrons in bacterial antibiotic resistance, the frequency of class 1 and 2 integrons in AIEC isolated from CRC patients, in one of the referenced 3 gastroenterology clinics in Isfahan, Iran was examined. AIEC strains were isolated from the colorectal biopsies and their antimicrobial sensitivity was assessed using the disc diffusion method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect intl1 and intl2. The multilocus sequence typing (MLST) method was utilized to type 10 selected isolates. Of the 150 samples, 24 were identified as AIEC, with the highest number isolated from CRC2 (33.4%) and CRC1 (29.16%), and the least from the FH group (8.3%) and control group (12.5%). int1 in 79.2% and int2 in 45.8% of AIEC strains were found and 41.6% of strains had both integrons. AIEC isolates with int1 exhibited the highest sensitivity to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (57.9%), while those with int2 showed the highest sensitivity to ciprofloxacin (63.6%). A significant association between resistance to rifampin and integron 2 presence in AIEC isolates was observed. Furthermore, a significant correlation between integron 1 presence, invasion, survival, and replication within macrophages in AIEC strains was identified. MLST analysis revealed ST131 from CC131 with integron 1 as the most common sequence type (ST). The emergence of such strains in CRC populations poses a serious public health threat. The distribution pattern of STs varied among studied groups, with pandemic STs highlighting the importance of examining and treating patients infected with these isolates. Comprehensive prospective clinical investigations are warranted to assess the prognostic value of detecting this pathovar in CRC and to evaluate therapeutic techniques targeting drug-resistant AIECs, such as phage therapy, bacteriocins, and anti-adhesion compounds, for CRC prevention and treatment.
The alteration and role of glycoconjugates in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Kang Yue , Zhang Qian , Xu Silu , Yu Yue
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by abnormal protein deposition. With an alarming 30 million people affected worldwide, AD poses a significant public health concern. While inhibiting key enzymes such as β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1 and γ-secretase or enhancing amyloid-β clearance, has been considered the reasonable strategy for AD treatment, their efficacy has been compromised by ineffectiveness. Furthermore, our understanding of AD pathogenesis remains incomplete. Normal aging is associated with a decline in glucose uptake in the brain, a process exacerbated in patients with AD, leading to significant impairment of a critical post-translational modification: glycosylation. Glycosylation, a finely regulated mechanism of intracellular secondary protein processing, plays a pivotal role in regulating essential functions such as synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, axon guidance, as well as learning and memory within the central nervous system. Advanced glycomic analysis has unveiled that abnormal glycosylation of key AD-related proteins closely correlates with the onset and progression of the disease. In this context, we aimed to delve into the intricate role and underlying mechanisms of glycosylation in the etiopathology and pathogenesis of AD. By highlighting the potential of targeting glycosylation as a promising and alternative therapeutic avenue for managing AD, we strive to contribute to the advancement of treatment strategies for this debilitating condition.
Development of a diagnostic algorithm to ascertain malignant pleural effusion utilizing clinical indicators and serum metal concentrations
Authors: Ji Jinling , Shi Ting , Yan Lei , Wang Kai , Jiang Kun , Jiang Yuzhang , Pan Shengnan , Yu Yabin , Li Chang
Published: June 2024

Background

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is prevalent among cancer patients, indicating pleural metastasis and predicting poor prognosis. However, accurately identifying MPE in clinical settings is challenging. The aim of this study was to establish an innovative nomogram-derived model based on clinical indicators and serum metal ion levels to identify MPE.

Methods

From July 2020 to May 2022, 428 patients diagnosed with pleural effusion (PE) were consecutively recruited. Comprehensive demographic details, clinical symptoms, imaging data, pathological information, and laboratory results, including serum metal ion levels, were systematically collected. The nomogram was created by incorporating the most significant predictors identified through LASSO and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The predictors were assigned weighted points based on their respective regression coefficients, allowing for the calculation of a total score that corresponds to the probability of MPE. Internal validation using bootstrapping techniques assessed the nomogram’s performance, including calibration, discrimination, and clinical applicability.

Results

Seven key variables were identified using LASSO regression and multiple regression analysis, including dyspnea, fever, X-ray/CT compatible with malignancy, pleural carcinoembryonic antigen(pCEA), serum neuron-specific enolase(sNSE), serum carcinoembryonic antigen(sCEA), and pleural lactate dehydrogenase(pLDH). Internal validation underscored the superior performance of our model (AUC=0.940). Decision curve analysis (DCA) analysis demonstrated substantial net benefit across a probability threshold range > 1%. Additionally, serum calcium and copper levels were significantly higher, while serum zinc levels were significantly lower in MPE patients compared to benign pleural effusion (BPE) patients.

Conclusion

This study effectively developed a user-friendly and reliable MPE identification model incorporating seven markers, aiding in the classification of PE subtypes in clinical settings. Furthermore, our study highlights the clinical value of serum metal ions in distinguishing malignant pleural effusion from BPE. This significant advancement provides essential tools for physicians to accurately diagnose and treat patients with MPE.
A method for measuring mitochondrial DNA copy number in pediatric populations
Authors: Maggo Simran , North Liam Y. , Ozuna Aime , Ostrow Dejerianne , Grajeda Yander R. , Hakimjavadi Hesamedin , Cotter Jennifer A. , Judkins Alexander R. , Levitt Pat , Gai Xiaowu
Published: June 2024

The mitochondrion is a multifunctional organelle that modulates multiple systems critical for homeostasis during pathophysiological stress. Variation in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number (mtDNAcn), a key mitochondrial change associated with chronic stress, is an emerging biomarker for disease pathology and progression. mtDNAcn can be quantified from whole blood samples using qPCR to determine the ratio of mtDNA to nuclear DNA. However, the collection of blood samples in pediatric populations, particularly in infants and young children, can be technically challenging, yield much smaller volume samples, and can be distressing for the patients and their caregivers. Therefore, we have validated a mtDNAcn assay utilizing DNA from simple buccal swabs (Isohelix SK-2S) and report here it's performance in specimens from infants (age = <12 months). Utilizing qPCR to amplify ∼200 bp regions from two mitochondrial (ND1, ND6) and two nuclear (BECN1, NEB) genes, we demonstrated absolute (100%) concordance with results from low-pass whole genome sequencing (lpWGS). We believe that this method overcomes key obstacles to measuring mtDNAcn in pediatric populations and creates the possibility for development of clinical assays to measure mitochondrial change during pathophysiological stress.
Identification of doping suspicions through artificial intelligence-powered analysis on athlete’s performance passport in female weightlifting
Authors: Ryoo Hyunji , Cho Samuel , Oh Taehan , Kim YuSik , Suh Sang-Hoon
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Doping remains a persistent concern in sports, compromising fair competition. The Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) has been a standard anti-doping measure, but confounding factors challenge its effectiveness. Our study introduces an artificial intelligence-driven approach for identifying potential doping suspicious, utilizing the Athlete’s Performance Passport (APP), which integrates both demographic profiles and performance data, among elite female weightlifters.

Methods

Analyzing publicly available performance data in female weightlifting from 1998 to 2020, along with demographic information, encompassing 17,058 entities, we categorized weightlifters by age, body weight (BW) class, and performance levels. Documented anti-doping rule violations (ADRVs) cases were also retained. We employed AI-powered algorithms, including XGBoost, Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), and an Ensemble model, which integrates XGBoost and MLP, to identify doping suspicions based on the dataset we obtained.

Results

Our findings suggest a potential doping inclination in female weightlifters in their mid-twenties, and the sanctioned prevalence was the highest in the top 1% performance level and then decreased thereafter. Performance profiles and sanction trends across age groups and BW classes reveal consistently superior performances in sanctioned cases. The Ensemble model showcased impressive predictive performance, achieving a 53.8% prediction rate among the weightlifters sanctioned in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics. This demonstrated the practical application of the Athlete’s Performance Passport (APP) in identifying potential doping suspicions.

Discussion

Our study pioneers an AI-driven APP approach in anti-doping, offering a proactive and efficient methodology. The APP, coupled with advanced AI algorithms, holds promise in revolutionizing the efficiency and objectivity of doping tests, providing a novel avenue for enhancing anti-doping measures in elite female weightlifting and potentially extending to diverse sports. We also address the limitation of a constrained set of APPs, advocating for the development of a more accessible and enriched APP system for robust anti-doping practices.
A promising case of preclinical-clinical translation: β-adrenoceptor blockade from the oxygen-induced retinopathy model to retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Cammalleri Maurizio , Filippi Luca , Dal Monte Massimo , Bagnoli Paola
Published: June 2024

Although compartmentalization of the eye seems to promote its experimental manipulation, drug penetration to its posterior part is severely limited by hard barriers thus hindering drug development for eye diseases. In particular, angiogenesis-related retinal diseases share common mechanisms and are responsible for the majority of cases of blindness. Their prevalence is globally increasing mostly because of the increased incidence of systemic pathologies in the adult. Despite the number of preclinical findings demonstrating the efficacy of novel treatments, therapy of retinal neovascular diseases still remains confined to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatments with some extension to anti-inflammatory therapy. In the mare magnum of preclinical findings aimed to develop novel avenues for future therapies, most compounds, despite their efficacy in experimental models, do not seem to meet the criteria for their therapeutic application. In particular, the groove between preclinical findings and their clinical application increases instead of decreasing and the attempt to bridging the gap between them creates intense frustration and a sense of defeat. In this complex scenario, we will discuss here the role that overactivation of the sympathetic system plays in retinal vessel proliferation in response to hypoxia using the oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model. The potential application of the beta-adrenoceptor (β-AR) blockade with propranolol to the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity will be also discussed in light of preclinical findings in the OIR model and clinical trials using propranolol in preterm infants either per os or as eye drops.
Social activities and depressive symptoms among migrant middle-aged and older adults in China: a network analysis
Authors: Liu Qian , Wu Yuanyuan , Yu Chang , Pei Yaolin
Published: June 2024

Background

This study investigated the central symptom within the depression network and examined the relationship between social activities and depressive symptoms among migrant middle-aged and older adults in China.

Methods

We analyzed data from 1,926 migrants aged 45 and older, derived from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Using network analysis, we identified the central depressive symptom and assessed the association between various social activities and depressive symptoms.

Results

Network analysis revealed that depressed mood was the most central symptom. Regarding mitigation of depressive symptoms, informal social activities predominantly influenced positive emotions and somatic symptoms. Formal activities were mainly revealed through positive emotions. Solitary activities were manifested primarily through positive emotions and somatic symptoms. In addition, informal and solitary activities showed a stronger correlation with the alleviation of depressive symptoms compared to formal activities.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the importance of addressing depressed mood in treating depression among migrant middle-aged and older adults. Recognizing the differential impacts of various social activities can aid in the development of customized prevention and intervention strategies aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of this demographic in China.
Facial emotion recognition in children of parents with a mental illness
Authors: Werkmann Naomi Leona , Luczejko Arleta Angelika , Hagelweide Klara , Stark Rudolf , Weigelt Sarah , Christiansen Hanna , Kieser Meinhard , Otto Kathleen , Reck Corinna , Steinmayr Ricarda , Wirthwein Linda , Zietlow Anna-Lena , Schwenck Christina ,   the COMPARE-family research group
Published: June 2024

Objective

Facial emotion recognition (FER) is a fundamental social skill essential for adaptive social behaviors, emotional development, and overall well-being. FER impairments have been linked to various mental disorders, making it a critical transdiagnostic mechanism influencing the development and trajectory of mental disorders. FER has also been found to play a role in the transgenerational transmission of mental disorders, with the majority of research suggesting FER impairments in children of parents with a mental illness (COPMI). Previous research primarily concentrated on COPMI of parents with internalizing disorders, which does not cover the full spectrum of outpatient mental health service populations. Furthermore, research focuses on varying components of FER by using different assessment paradigms, making it challenging to compare study results. To address these gaps, we comprehensively investigated FER abilities in COPMI using multiple tasks varying in task characteristics.

Methods

We included 189 children, 77 COPMI and 112 children of parents without a diagnosed mental illness (COPWMI), aged 6 to 16 years. We assessed FER using three tasks with varying task demands: an emotional Go/NoGo task, a morphing task, and a task presenting short video sequences depicting different emotions. We fitted separate two-level hierarchical Bayesian models (to account for sibling pairs in our sample) for reaction times and accuracy rates for each task. Good model fit was assured by comparing models using varying priors.

Results

Contrary to our expectations, our results revealed no general FER deficit in COPMI compared to COPWMI. The Bayesian models fitted for accuracy in the morphing task and Go/NoGo task yielded small yet significant effects. However, Bayes factors fitted for the models suggested that these effects could be due to random variations or noise in the data.

Conclusions

Our study does not support FER impairments as a general feature of COPMI. Instead, individual factors, such as the type of parental disorder and the timing of its onset, may play a crucial role in influencing FER development. Future research should consider these factors, taking into account the diverse landscape of parental mental disorders.
Experiences of support by unsuppressed adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers in Windhoek, Namibia: a qualitative study
Authors: Munyayi Farai K. , van Wyk Brian
Published: June 2024

Background

Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) lag behind younger children and adults in the achievement of HIV care and treatment targets for HIV epidemic control. Treatment outcomes for adolescents may be influenced by their experiences with the support provided in HIV programs. We report on the experiences of virally unsuppressed adolescents and their caregivers with the current support in primary healthcare settings in Namibia.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive and exploratory study was conducted in 13 public primary healthcare facilities in Windhoek, Namibia. A total of 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with unsuppressed adolescents (n = 14) and their caregivers (n = 11) between August and September 2023. The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and uploaded into ATLAS.ti software, and subjected to thematic content analysis.

Findings

Three main support domains for the unsuppressed adolescents emerged from our analysis, namely: psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support. The psychosocial support was delivered through peer support (teen clubs and treatment supporters) and enhanced adherence counselling mostly. The clinical and care support included implementing adolescent-friendly HIV services, differentiated service delivery approaches, and caregivers and healthcare worker care support for improved ART adherence, clinic attendance and continuous engagement in care. Socioeconomic support was provided for nutritional support, transport to access clinics, and school supplies, as well as income-generating projects.

Conclusion

Psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support are key elements in addressing the needs of adolescents challenged with achieving viral suppression. Health systems may benefit from whole-of-society and whole-of-government approaches to meet the needs of ALHIV that are beyond the scope of health service delivery such as nutritional, education and socioeconomic influences on both the health and well-being of ALHIV.
Secularism as a human right: learning from the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Gülalp Haldun
Published: June 2024

Secularism is conventionally (and somewhat misleadingly) defined as the separation of state and religion. This article offers an alternative and more refined concept of secularism as a normative political principle of social peace within the context of diversity. The argument that secularism, so understood, lies at the core of a notion of human rights, contra the critique it has been receiving in recent decades as being hostile to freedoms, is assessed conceptually and supported by an analysis of how it is (indirectly) articulated in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights.
Case report: Echinococcus multilocularis infection in a dog showing gastrointestinal signs in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Kida Izumi , Hayashi Naoki , Yokoyama Nozomu , Nagata Noriyuki , Sasaoka Kazuyoshi , Sasaki Noboru , Morishita Keitaro , Nakamura Kensuke , Kouguchi Hirokazu , Yagi Kinpei , Nakao Ryo , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi , Nonaka Nariaki
Published: June 2024

Echinococcus multilocularis is a cestode that causes human alveolar echinococcosis, a lethal zoonotic disease distributed in the northern hemisphere. The life cycle of this parasite is maintained in nature by voles as intermediate hosts and foxes as definitive hosts in Hokkaido, Japan. Although dogs are also susceptible to the parasite, the infection has been considered typically asymptomatic. We report the detection of E. multilocularis eggs in the diarrheal feces of a dog with chronic gastrointestinal signs, which disappeared after anthelmintic treatment. The mitochondrial genome sequence constructed by sequencing of the overlapping PCRs using DNA from the eggs was identical to the most predominant haplotype previously reported in red foxes in Hokkaido. This case highlights that Echinococcus infection should be considered as a differential diagnosis for diarrheal dogs in the disease endemic areas. Further efforts are needed to accumulate parasite genotypes in domestic dogs as well as humans to assess the risk of human infection from dogs.
The Impact of Environmental Variability on Cotton Fiber Quality: A Comparative Analysis of Primary Cotton-Producing Regions in Türkiye
Authors: Istipliler Deniz , Ekizoğlu Müge , Çakaloğulları Uğur , Tatar Özgür
Published: June 2024

The quality of cotton fiber plays a pivotal role for both producers and processors, influencing the market value and end-product quality. Certain cotton fiber properties, such as length, strength, micronaire, and uniformity index, are crucial determinants of cotton quality. Despite its prominence as a cotton-producing region, the Aegean region in Türkiye lacks comprehensive studies examining the quality of its cotton fiber across different subregions and seasonal variations. This study aimed to address this gap by investigating the variations in cotton fiber quality across different years and subregions within the Aegean. This study involved the evaluation of a total of 368,686 individual fiber quality analyses conducted over seven years across three subregions within the Aegean in Türkiye. The fiber samples collected from Bergama, Söke, and Menemen underwent high-volume instrument (HVI) analysis to evaluate the variations in cotton fiber quality across years and subregions, considering the phenological stages of cotton and climate conditions. The findings highlighted significant variations in the fiber quality traits among subregions, with environmental factors such as temperature and humidity playing crucial roles. Higher average daily temperatures during the flowering stage to boll formation contributed to higher strength values, while limitations on fiber length were observed due to prevalent high temperatures. Additionally, variations in micronaire values were linked to temperature and humidity conditions during boll development stages. This study underscores the importance of comprehensively considering climatic factors to understand their impacts on cotton fiber quality and suggests further research into the cotton plant’s phenology and specific climate conditions for a more thorough understanding of environmental effects on fiber quality.