bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cor como elemento de significação na narrativa fí­lmica: Um estudo do longa "A História da Eternidade"
Authors: Gaspar Ãtalo
Published: February 2024

As cores se configuram, atualmente, como um importante elemento de coesão na narrativa do cinema, ajudando a compor significado das produções que assistimos. Este artigo, visa abordar a significação fí­lmica a partir das escolhas de estética cromática, através de uma análise guiada pelas escolhas cromáticas do longa "A História da Eternidade" (2014), do diretor Camilo Cavalcante. Uma pesquisa bibliográfica guia de forma embasada o contexto histórico da cor no cinema, adentrando também em questões ramificadas como a construção de Diegese no cinema a partir da cor. A Metodologia e objeto deste estudo é baseado nos indicadores e categorias apresentados por Vanoye (2014) e Joly (2010) no que toca planos, enquadramentos e contextos narrativos. A análise fí­lmica parte da análise de imagens a partir de três diferentes núcleos de narrativas intercaladas e suas atmosferas cromáticas a partir de autores como Aumont (2012; 2014), Metz (2014) Santaella (2012), Farina (2006) e Vanoye (2014).
O SUJEITO SE REELABORANDO EM DANÇA
Authors: Schwab Isabela
Published: February 2024

O UM – Núcleo de Pesquisa Artí­stica em Dança da Unespar – vem tecendo econstruindo um intenso laboratório de aprendizado em pesquisa do movimento e composiçãode dança. As lógicas organizativas de investigação e composição propostas pelo UMaproximam a dança de um modo de fazer que a entenda como discurso da experiência docorpo, como um conjunto de pensamentos e questionamentos que emergem da relaçãosujeito e mundo, em que as afecções são formalizadas em um jeito de fazer dança que secomunica e que se configura em forma de composição. Nesse sentido, há uma enunciaçãode um modo de fazer dança que preza pelo sujeito e suas singularidades e que entende quecada corpo se organiza, age e realiza um jeito de mover, de compor, sempre diferente umdo outro. Portanto a proposta investigativa e compositiva do UM não é atingir uma estéticadada previamente em dança, mas proporcionar aos sujeitos a possibilidade de despertarum jeito próprio de mover e de criar. Dentre os conceitos discutidos e vivenciados comofundamentos para o desenvolvimento nas pesquisas e configurações práticas do UM, orecorte deste artigo é direcionado para o modo de compor danças que o grupo desenvolve,com um olhar voltado para a discussão do conceito de Sujeito no processo compositivo,que se faz pulsante na trajetória do UM. Conceito esse que reverberou, e é também partefundamental, na pesquisa de dissertação de Mestrado por mim desenvolvida: A experiênciacomo discurso do corpo: a dança tecendo caminhos.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Dança contemporânea. Subjetividade. Composição coreográfica.
CONTRIBUIÇÕES DO TEATRO NO PROCESSO DE CONHECIMENTO DO ESTUDANTE INSERIDO NA ESCOLA PÚBLICA
Authors: Bôas Ana Letícia Villas , Martins Guaraci da Silva Lopes
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo visa ampliar a reflexão sobre as contribuições do teatro no processo de desenvolvimento sensí­vel e crí­tico do estudante inserido na escola da rede pública. Para tanto, esta pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa se fundamentou, sobretudo, em autores com investigações voltadas para a pedagogia teatral e a educação. Também, utilizou-se da pesquisa de campo, aplicada por esta pesquisadora como bolsista do subprojeto de teatro intitulado "A Pedagogia do Teatro em Diálogo com a Formação Docente" e associado ao Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência – PIBID. Neste momento, juntamente com demais colegas/bolsistas, esta pesqusiadora desenvolveu distintas metodologias teatrais em sala de aula com estudantes do ensino básico. Contudo, para o aprofundamento da análise do trabalho realizado, foram selecionadas duas turmas matriculadas no Ensino Médio ofertado por uma das escolas participantes do referido Programa. As ações pedagógicas realizadas ao longo do ano letivo de 2017 evidenciaram a importância de projetos polí­ticos e pedagógicos comprometidos com a formação inicial docente, assim como, a relevância do contato direto do acadêmico com a sala de aula, na medida em que oferecem a oportunidade para a avaliação de técnicas, métodos e estratégias de ensino em situações diversas e inesperadas.
Improving passengers’ attitudes toward safety and unreliable train operations: analysis of a mathematical model of fractional order
Authors: Hailu Gizachew Kefelew , Teklu Shewafera Wondimagegnhu
Published: February 2024

In this study, we aimed to explore the dynamics of rail passengers’ negative attitudes that can be influenced by safety concerns and unreliable train operations. We mainly formulated and analyzed a mathematical model of fractional order and derived an optimal control problem considering the Caputo fractional order derivative. In the analysis part of the model, we proved that the solutions of the model for the dynamical system are non-negative and bounded, and determined the passengers’ negative attitude-free and negative attitude persistence equilibrium points of the model. Both the local and global stabilities of these equilibrium points were examined. Furthermore, we verified the conditions necessary for the existence of optimal control strategies. We then proceeded to analyze the proposed control strategies, which aim to prevent negative attitudes and improve the attitudes of passengers who have already developed negative attitudes. Finally, we conducted numerical simulations to examine the effects of these control strategies. The results revealed that protecting passengers from developing negative attitudes and improving the attitudes of those who have already developed such attitudes are crucial for improving the overall attitude of railway passengers. These measures can effectively address any negative experiences caused by safety concerns and unreliable train operations.
Design and assessment of a virtual reality learning environment for firefighters
Authors: Wheeler Steven G. , Hoermann Simon , Lukosch Stephan , Lindeman Robert W.
Published: February 2024

The use of virtual reality (VR) in firefighter training is promising because it provides cost-effective, safe environments that arouse similar behavioral responses to real-life scenarios. However, the pedagogical potential of VR and its impact on learning outcomes compared to traditional methods is currently an under-explored area. This research investigates how well VR can support learning compared to traditional methods in the context of training firefighters in combating vegetation fires. A VR learning environment was developed, informed by a “design for learning” framework providing a pedagogical underpinning. A between-subjects experiment was conducted with 40 participants to measure the knowledge transfer of the VR learning environment against the official textbook. In addition, VR's theorized learning benefits of intrinsic motivation, situational interest, and self-efficacy were compared with textbook-based learning. Lastly, the design quality of the learning environment was assessed based on its learning and user experience. We employed a primarily quantitative approach to data collection and analysis, using a combination of knowledge test results and questionnaires, with supporting qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and observation notes to answer our hypotheses. The results found a significant difference between the knowledge transfer of both conditions, with textbook-based learning more effectively transferring factual and conceptual knowledge than VR. No significant difference was found in reported self-efficacy between the two conditions but was found in reported levels of intrinsic motivation and situational interest, which were higher in the VR condition. The design was found to have facilitated a good user and learning experience, assessed via questionnaire responses. During interviews, VR participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the experience, praising the hands-on learning approach and interactivity, while reporting frustration with the lack of knowledge reinforcement and initial difficulties with the controls. A key finding was that presence was found to be negatively associated with knowledge transfer, which we theorize to be caused by the novelty of the realistic VR environment distracting participants from the more familiar lesson content. This research contributes to the body of work related to knowledge transfer within VR in this domain while highlighting key pedagogical and design considerations that can be used to inform future design implementations.
Strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats analysis of artificial intelligence in anesthesiology and perioperative medicine
Authors: Paiste Henry J. , Godwin Ryan C. , Smith Andrew D. , Berkowitz Dan E. , Melvin Ryan L.
Published: February 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in anesthesiology and perioperative medicine is quickly becoming a mainstay of clinical practice. Anesthesiology is a data-rich medical specialty that integrates multitudes of patient-specific information. Perioperative medicine is ripe for applications of AI and ML to facilitate data synthesis for precision medicine and predictive assessments. Examples of emergent AI models include those that assist in assessing depth and modulating control of anesthetic delivery, event and risk prediction, ultrasound guidance, pain management, and operating room logistics. AI and ML support analyzing integrated perioperative data at scale and can assess patterns to deliver optimal patient-specific care. By exploring the benefits and limitations of this technology, we provide a basis of considerations for evaluating the adoption of AI models into various anesthesiology workflows. This analysis of AI and ML in anesthesiology and perioperative medicine explores the current landscape to understand better the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) these tools offer.
New 2D roughness parameters with geometric and physical meanings for rock joints and their correlation with joint roughness coefficient
Authors: He Cheng , Tang Huiming , Fang Kun , Sun Sixuan
Published: February 2024

Determining the joint roughness accurately will better serve the peak shear strength estimation models of rock joints used for stability assessment of rock masses. Considering the defects of the existing quantitative characterization parameters for two-dimensional (2D) joint roughness, especially the lack of explicit geometric and physical meaning, we proposed two new 2D roughness parameters, θ2D and h2D. The former, θ2D, represents the average inclination angle of all potential contact asperities over the entire joint profile, while the latter, h2D, characterizes their average undulation height. Both parameters are closely related to the shear strength of rock joints. Then, the roughness parameters θ2D and h2D of 102 rock joint profiles digitized at 0.5 mm sampling interval were calculated, and a new nonlinear regression equation for the determination of the 2D joint roughness coefficient (JRC) was established by combining the calculated results of the two roughness parameters. It was verified that the proposed equation could give accurate JRC estimation values of the 10 standard profiles of rock joints. Through the comparative analysis of the experimental data collected from earlier studies for the peak shear strength of 73 rock joint samples and corresponding estimated values, the equation was further verified to be applicable and accurate for estimating the JRC values of rock joints. Furthermore, we discussed the effects of shear direction and sampling interval on roughness and further provided another equation that could be applied to estimate the JRC values of joint profiles at the sampling interval of 1.0 mm.
Animal models for type 1 and type 2 diabetes: advantages and limitations
Authors: Singh Raj , Gholipourmalekabadi Mazaher , Shafikhani Sasha H.
Published: February 2024

Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by chronic elevation in blood glucose levels, resulting from inadequate insulin production, defective cellular response to extracellular insulin, and/or impaired glucose metabolism. The two main types that account for most diabetics are type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), each with their own pathophysiological features. T1D is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to lack of insulin, a vital hormone for regulating blood sugar levels and cellular glucose uptake. As a result, those with T1D depend on lifelong insulin therapy to control their blood glucose level. In contrast, T2DM is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin, coupled with a relative insulin deficiency. This form of diabetes is often associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and/or genetic factors, and it is managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications. Animal models play a crucial role in diabetes research. However, given the distinct differences between T1DM and T2DM, it is imperative for researchers to employ specific animal models tailored to each condition for a better understanding of the impaired mechanisms underlying each condition, and for assessing the efficacy of new therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the distinct animal models used in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus research and discuss their strengths and limitations.
Joint optimization of operational cost and carbon emission in multiple data center micro-grids
Authors: Hao Xiaobo , Liu Pengcheng , Deng Yanhui
Published: February 2024

As the internet data centers are mushrooming, the energy consumption and carbon emission of data centers are increasing rapidly. To cut down the electricity cost and carbon emission of the data centers, we proposed an optimization method to reduce the electricity cost and carbon emission in geo-distributed multiple data centers. In the proposed method, the carbon tax is considered in the overall operation cost to optimize the carbon emission. The spatial and temporal flexibility of computational workload is fully utilized by considering the difference in renewable energy power output, local electricity and carbon emission of multiple geo-distributed data centers to achieve a better performance. Furthermore, the nonlinear characteristics of the power loss of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) are considered in the optimization. To verify the proposed optimization method, simulation of six cases is carried out with realistic data, and results have proved the proposed method can reduce the operational costs by 4.93%–12.7% and decrease carbon emissions by up to 10%.
Impact of weirs in altering benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages and composition structure in the Luvuvhu River Catchment, South Africa
Authors: Munzhelele Humbulani E. , Barnhoorn Irene E. J. , Addo-Bediako Abraham , Ramulifho Pfananani A. , Luus-Powell Wilmien J.
Published: February 2024

Stream flow weirs disrupt river flow regimes, physical conditions, and biological composition of rivers, posing significant threat to the river’s functionality, integrity, and sustainability. Home to diverse aquatic organisms, there is a lack of impact assessment of weirs on the stream of the Luvuvhu River Catchment (LRC). The aim of this study was to examine the impact of six weirs on aquatic macroinvertebrate assemblages and composition across five streams. A total of six sampling surveys on macroinvertebrates and physico-chemical parameters were conducted upstream and downstream of six weirs in 12 months between June 2021 and June 2022. The South African Scoring System score (SASS score) and Average Score per Taxon (ASPT) indices were used to compare organisms’ response between upstream and downstream of weirs. Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) were used to determine the effect of physico-chemical variables on macroinvertebrate assemblage, while the CCA was employed to assess similarities between downstream and upstream sampling points across various sites. A total of 18,914 macroinvertebrate individuals were observed from 65 families during the survey. In upstream sections, the SASS score was driven by habitat integrity, electrical conductivity, and water depth, while ASPT responded significantly to habitat integrity, pH, dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity. In the downstream sections, the SASS score increased with an increasing habitat integrity score and river width, while decreasing with elevation and pH levels. ASPT increased with increasing habitat integrity and elevation in the downstream sections, while decreasing with increasing river width and water temperature. This study’s findings suggest habitat integrity is largely driving aquatic abundance and assemblage in the LRC, and it is therefore important to maintain the ecological integrity of rivers.
Artificial intelligence and IoT driven technologies for environmental pollution monitoring and management
Authors: Popescu Simona Mariana , Mansoor Sheikh , Wani Owais Ali , Kumar Shamal Shasang , Sharma Vikas , Sharma Arpita , Arya Vivak M. , Kirkham M. B. , Hou Deyi , Bolan Nanthi , Chung Yong Suk
Published: February 2024

Detecting hazardous substances in the environment is crucial for protecting human wellbeing and ecosystems. As technology continues to advance, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool for creating sensors that can effectively detect and analyze these hazardous substances. The increasing advancements in information technology have led to a growing interest in utilizing this technology for environmental pollution detection. AI-driven sensor systems, AI and Internet of Things (IoT) can be efficiently used for environmental monitoring, such as those for detecting air pollutants, water contaminants, and soil toxins. With the increasing concerns about the detrimental impact of legacy and emerging hazardous substances on ecosystems and human health, it is necessary to develop advanced monitoring systems that can efficiently detect, analyze, and respond to potential risks. Therefore, this review aims to explore recent advancements in using AI, sensors and IOTs for environmental pollution monitoring, taking into account the complexities of predicting and tracking pollution changes due to the dynamic nature of the environment. Integrating machine learning (ML) methods has the potential to revolutionize environmental science, but it also poses challenges. Important considerations include balancing model performance and interpretability, understanding ML model requirements, selecting appropriate models, and addressing concerns related to data sharing. Through examining these issues, this study seeks to highlight the latest trends in leveraging AI and IOT for environmental pollution monitoring.
Stand structure is more important for forest productivity stability than tree, understory plant and soil biota species diversity
Authors: Wang Tao , Dong Lingbo , Liu Zhaogang
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The stability of forest productivity is an important management goal in order to sustain ecosystem services for an expanding human population and in the face of global climate change. Evidence from theoretical, observational, and experimental studies has demonstrated that higher biodiversity promotes stability of forest productivity. However, the majority of these studies have focused solely on tree diversity and have neglected the potentially important role of understory plant and soil biodiversity.

Methods

In this study, we explain the effect of tree, understory woody and herbaceous plant, and soil biota (fauna, fungi, and bacteria) species diversity on forest productivity and its stability over time (2000–2020) across an area of Northeast China covering 145 million hectares. We explore the eight stand structure variables for stability of forest productivity and the relationship between productivity stability and tree, understory plant, and soil biota species diversity.

Results

Our results show no significant, direct impact of understory plant, soil fungi, and bacteria species diversity on the stability of the forest ecosystem. Tree species diversity indirectly affects productivity stability by directly influencing stand structure, whereas soil fauna species diversity indirectly influences stability through its relationship with tree species diversity. Stand structure is more important than tree and soil fauna species diversity for forest productivity stability. Specifically, increasing crown height (CH) from its minimum to maximum value leads to a substantial gain of 20.394 in forest productivity stability. In contrast, raising tree species diversity (α-Tree) and soil fauna species diversity (α-Fauna) from their minimum to maximum values results in a modest reduction of only 0.399 and 0.231 in forest productivity stability, respectively.

Discussion

To increase the stability of forest productivity in response to climate change, we should adjust the stand structure more in the process of management rather than just considering biodiversity. Overall, this study highlights the ecological risks associated with large-scale biotic homogenization under future climate change and management practices.
Classifying breast cancer using multi-view graph neural network based on multi-omics data
Authors: Ren Yanjiao , Gao Yimeng , Du Wei , Qiao Weibo , Li Wei , Yang Qianqian , Liang Yanchun , Li Gaoyang
Published: February 2024

Introduction: As the evaluation indices, cancer grading and subtyping have diverse clinical, pathological, and molecular characteristics with prognostic and therapeutic implications. Although researchers have begun to study cancer differentiation and subtype prediction, most of relevant methods are based on traditional machine learning and rely on single omics data. It is necessary to explore a deep learning algorithm that integrates multi-omics data to achieve classification prediction of cancer differentiation and subtypes.

Methods: This paper proposes a multi-omics data fusion algorithm based on a multi-view graph neural network (MVGNN) for predicting cancer differentiation and subtype classification. The model framework consists of a graph convolutional network (GCN) module for learning features from different omics data and an attention module for integrating multi-omics data. Three different types of omics data are used. For each type of omics data, feature selection is performed using methods such as the chi-square test and minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR). Weighted patient similarity networks are constructed based on the selected omics features, and GCN is trained using omics features and corresponding similarity networks. Finally, an attention module integrates different types of omics features and performs the final cancer classification prediction.

Results: To validate the cancer classification predictive performance of the MVGNN model, we conducted experimental comparisons with traditional machine learning models and currently popular methods based on integrating multi-omics data using 5-fold cross-validation. Additionally, we performed comparative experiments on cancer differentiation and its subtypes based on single omics data, two omics data, and three omics data.

Discussion: This paper proposed the MVGNN model and it performed well in cancer classification prediction based on multiple omics data.
Substitution effect of fish meal with various plant protein sources on growth performance and feed utilization in rockfish (Sebastes schlegeli) diets including jack mackerel meal used as feed stimulants
Authors: Kim June , Cho Sung Hwoan
Published: February 2024

Incorporating feed stimulants and attractants in low fish meal (FM) diets is a very effective way to improve palatability and increase feed intake and fish growth. This research aims to elucidate the substitution impact of different levels of FM with various plant proteins in diets with jack mackerel meal (JMM) inclusion as feed stimulants on the growth and feed utilization of rockfish (Sebastes schlegeli). A two-way (2 substitution levels [25% and 50%] × 3 substitution sources [corn gluten meal (CGM), soybean protein concentrate (SPC), and corn protein concentrate (CPC)]) ANOVA experimental design was adopted. In total, 525 fish averaging 8.3 g were assigned to 21 tanks (25 juvenile/tank). Seven isoprotetic and isolipidic feeds were formulated. The control (Con) diet contained 55% FM. CGM, SPC, and CPC were replaced for 25% and 50% FM in the Con diet, and then 22% JMM as feed stimulants was included at the cost of FM, named as the CGM25, CGM50, SPC25, SPC50, CPC25, and CPC50 diets, respectively. All diets were assigned to triplicate groups of rockfish. Rockfish were hand-fed to apparent satiation twice a day for 8 weeks. Rockfish fed the 25% FM substitution diets achieved superior (p< 0.0001 for both) weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) compared to rockfish fed the 50% FM substitution diets, while rockfish fed the CGM-replaced diets achieved superior (p< 0.0001 for both) weight gain and SGR compared to rockfish fed the SPC- and CPC-replaced diets. The weight gain and SGR of rockfish fed the Con and CGM25 diets were superior to rockfish fed all other diets. Rockfish fed the 25% FM substitution diets achieved superior (p< 0.0001 for both) feed efficiency (FE) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) compared to rockfish fed the 50% FM substitution diets, while rockfish fed the CGM-replaced diets achieved superior FE and PER compared to rockfish fed the CPC-replaced diets. Rockfish fed the 25% FM substitution diets led to superior (p< 0.0001) protein retention (PR) compared to rockfish fed the 50% FM substitution diets. The biological indices, proximate composition, and amino acid profiles of the whole body, as well as the plasma and serum parameters of rockfish, were not changed by either substitution level or substitution source. In conclusion, the replacement of CGM for 25% FM in the rockfish diet with JMM inclusion can be made without deteriorating growth performance, feed consumption and utilization, biochemical composition, and plasma and serum parameters.
Evaluating the impact of interprofessional training wards on patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes: a mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Schlosser-Hupf Sophie , Aichner Elisabeth , Meier Marcus , Albaladejo-Fuertes Sheila , Ruttmann Kirstin , Rusch Sophia , Michels Bernhard , Mehrl Alexander , Kunst Claudia , Schmid Stephan , Müller Martina
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Interprofessional teamwork is pivotal in modern healthcare, prompting the establishment of interprofessional training wards since 1996. While these wards serve as hubs for optimizing healthcare professional collaboration and communication, research into patient outcomes remains notably sparse and geographically limited, predominantly examining patient satisfaction and sparingly exploring other metrics like mortality or self-discharge rates. This study seeks to bridge this gap, comparing patient outcomes in interprofessional training wards and conventional wards under the hypothesis that the former offers no disadvantage to patient outcomes.

Materials and methods

We explored patient outcomes within an interprofessional student ward called A-STAR at a University Hospital from October 2019 to December 2022. Engaging with patients discharged between May 2021 and April 2022, we utilized digital and paper-based anonymous questionnaires, catering to patient preference, to gather pertinent data.

Results

Analysis of outcomes for 1,482 A-STAR (interprofessional student ward) and 5,752 conventional ward patients revealed noteworthy findings. A-STAR patients tended to be younger (59 vs. 61 years, p < 0.01) and more frequently male (73.5% vs. 70.4%, p = 0.025). Vital clinical outcomes, such as discharges against medical advice, complication-driven readmissions, and ICU transfers, were statistically similar between groups, as were mortality rates (1.2% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.468). A-STAR demonstrated high patient satisfaction, underscored by positive reflections on team competence, ward atmosphere, and responsiveness to concerns, emphasizing the value placed on interprofessional collaboration. Patient narratives commended team kindness, lucid explanations, and proactive involvement.

Discussion

This data collectively underscores the safety and reliability of patient care within training wards, affirming that patients can trust the care provided in these settings. Patients on the interprofessional ward demonstrated high satisfaction levels: 96.7% appreciated the atmosphere and conduct of ward rounds. In comparison, 98.3% were satisfied with the discussion and information about their treatment during their hospital stay.
Decreased skin colonization with Malassezia spp. and increased skin colonization with Candida spp. in patients with severe atopic dermatitis
Authors: Storz Lukas , Schmid Bettina , Bosshard Philipp Peter , Schmid-Grendelmeier Peter , Brüggen Marie-Charlotte , Lang Claudia
Published: February 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease in which patients are sensitized towards a plethora of allergens. The hosts fungal microbiota, the mycobiota, that is believed to be altered in patients suffering from AD acts as such an allergen. The correlation context of specific sensitization, changes in mycobiota and its impact on disease severity however remains poorly understood.

Objectives

We aim to enhance the understanding of the specific sensitization towards the mycobiota in AD patients in relation to their fungal skin colonization.

Methods

Sensitization pattern towards the Malassezia spp. and Candida albicans of 16 AD patients and 14 healthy controls (HC) were analyzed with the newly developed multiplex-assay ALEX2® and the established singleplex-assay ImmunoCAP®. We compared these findings with the fungal skin colonization analyzed by DNA sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS1).

Results

Sensitization in general and towards Malassezia spp. and C. albicans is increased in AD patients compared to HC with a quantitative difference in severe AD when compared to mild to moderate AD. Further we saw an association between sensitization towards and skin colonization with Candida spp. yet a negative correlation between sensitization towards and skin colonization with Malassezia spp.

Conclusion

We conclude that AD in general and severe AD in particular is associated with increased sensitization towards the hosts own mycobiota. There is positive correlation in Candida spp. skin colonization and negative in Malassezia spp. skin colonization when compared to AD, AD severity as well as to specific sensitization patterns.
Spatial tactile localization depends on sensorimotor binding: preliminary evidence from virtual reality
Authors: Girondini Matteo , Montanaro Massimo , Gallace Alberto
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Our brain continuously maps our body in space. It has been suggested that at least two main frames of reference are used to process somatosensory stimuli presented on our own body: the anatomical frame of reference (based on the somatotopic representation of our body in the somatosensory cortex) and the spatial frame of reference (where body parts are mapped in external space). Interestingly, a mismatch between somatotopic and spatial information significantly affects the processing of bodily information, as demonstrated by the “crossing hand” effect. However, it is not clear if this impairment occurs not only when the conflict between these frames of reference is determined by a static change in the body position (e.g., by crossing the hands) but also when new associations between motor and sensory responses are artificially created (e.g., by presenting feedback stimuli on a side of the body that is not involved in the movement).

Methods

In the present study, 16 participants performed a temporal order judgment task before and after a congruent or incongruent visual-tactile-motor- task in virtual reality. During the VR task, participants had to move a cube using a virtual stick. In the congruent condition, the haptic feedback during the interaction with the cube was provided on the right hand (the one used to control the stick). In the incongruent condition, the haptic feedback was provided to the contralateral hand, simulating a sort of ‘active’ crossed feedback during the interaction. Using a psychophysical approach, the point of subjective equality (or PSE, i.e., the probability of responding left or right to the first stimulus in the sequence in 50% of the cases) and the JND (accuracy) were calculated for both conditions, before and after the VR-task.

Results

After the VR task, compared to the baseline condition, the PSE shifted toward the hand that received the haptic feedback during the interaction (toward the right hand for the congruent condition and toward the left hand for the incongruent condition).

Dicussion

This study demonstrated the possibility of inducing spatial biases in the processing of bodily information by modulating the sensory-motor interaction between stimuli in virtual environments (while keeping constant the actual position of the body in space).
Double burden of malnutrition and associated factors among mother–child pairs at household level in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: community based cross-sectional study design
Authors: Mekonnen Solomon , Birhanu Dereje , Menber Yonatan , Gebreegziabher Zenebe Abebe , Belay Mahider Awoke
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The double burden of malnutrition refers to the simultaneous presence of under nutrition and overweight, obesity, or diet-related non-communicable diseases which might occur at the population, household, and individual level. The simultaneous presence of overweight/obese mothers with undernourished children in the same household, as well as overweight children with underweight mothers, holds particular significance. This phenomenon primarily impacts low-income and middle-income countries. The prevalence of double-burden malnutrition at the household level has increased significantly in sub-Saharan African countries. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the extent and factors associated with the double burden of malnutrition among mother–child pairs in Ethiopia. Consequently, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and determinants of the double burden of malnutrition among mother–child pairs at the household level in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia.

Method

In the year 2021, a community-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 702 mother–child pairs in Bahir Dar City from February 28 to March 23. A multistage sampling technique was used to identify study participants who were interviewed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The nutritional status of children was evaluated using WHO Anthro Software. To determine the strength of the association, multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed, and adjusted odds ratios with their respective 95% confidence intervals were computed.

Results

The prevalence of the double burden of malnutrition among mother–child pairs was 14.5% (95% CI: 12.8, 15.7%}. Participants who were in the richest wealth index were 2.72 {AOR = 2.72, 95% CI 2.01, 5.63} times more odds of double burden of malnutrition than the poorest. The odds of the double burden of malnutrition among children who had high dietary diversity decreased by 63% {AOR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.22, 0.61} than low dietary diversity. Food secure households were 1.96 {AOR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.13, 3.39} times more likely to have the double burden of malnutrition than food insecure households. The odds of the double burden of malnutrition among mothers who completed college and above decreased by 74% {AOR = 0.26 95% CI 0.121, 0.549} than those unable to read and write.

Conclusions and recommendation

The magnitude of the double burden of malnutrition was lower than the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. Wealth index, dietary diversity, food security, and educational status were significantly associated with the double burden of malnutrition. Therefore, it is recommended to implement public health interventions that target the identified associated factors in order to reduce the burden of double malnutrition.
Patients’ knowledge, preferences, and perspectives about data protection and data control: an exploratory survey
Authors: Lalova-Spinks Teodora , Saesen Robbe , Silva Mitchell , Geissler Jan , Shakhnenko Iryna , Camaradou Jennifer Catherine , Huys Isabelle
Published: February 2024

Background: In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) plays a central role in the complex health research legal framework. It aims to protect the fundamental right to the protection of individuals’ personal data, while allowing the free movement of such data. However, it has been criticized for challenging the conduct of research. Existing scholarship has paid little attention to the experiences and views of the patient community. The aim of the study was to investigate 1) the awareness and knowledge of patients, carers, and members of patient organizations about the General Data Protection Regulation, 2) their experience with exercising data subject rights, and 3) their understanding of the notion of “data control” and preferences towards various data control tools.

Methods: An online survey was disseminated between December 2022 and March 2023. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Answers to open-ended questions were analyzed using the thematic analysis method.

Results: In total, 220 individuals from 28 European countries participated. The majority were patients (77%). Most participants had previously heard about the GDPR (90%) but had not exercised any of their data subject rights. Individual data control tools appeared to be marginally more important than collective tools. The willingness of participants to share personal data with data altruism organizations increased if patient representatives would be involved in the decision-making processes of such organizations.

Conclusion: The results highlighted the importance of providing in-depth education about data protection. Although participants showed a slight preference towards individual control tools, the reflection based on existing scholarship identified that individual control holds risks that could be mitigated through carefully operationalized collective tools. The discussion of results was used to provide a critical view into the proposed European Health Data Space, which has yet to find a productive balance between individual control and allowing the reuse of personal data for research.
Exosomal miR-223-3p from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells targets HDAC2 to downregulate STAT3 phosphorylation to alleviate HBx-induced ferroptosis in podocytes
Authors: Chen Yueqi , Yang Xiaoqian , Feng Moxuan , Yu Yani , Hu Yongzheng , Jiang Wei
Published: February 2024

Background: Hepatitis B virus associated-glomerulonephritis (HBV-GN) is one of the major secondary renal diseases in China, and microRNAs (miRNAs) in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (BMSC-Exo) can attenuate HBV-X protein (HBx)-induced ferroptosis in renal podocytes, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective mechanism of miR-223-3p in BMSC-Exo in HBx-induced ferroptosis in podocytes.

Methods: The study employed human renal podocyte cells (HPCs), bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), as well as kidney tissue from C57BL/6 mice and HBx transgenic mice. Initially, the correlation between STAT3 phosphorylation and ferroptosis was authenticated through the administration of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation inhibitors in both in vivo and in vitro settings. Furthermore, the effect of HDAC2 overexpression on STAT3 phosphorylation was examined. Subsequently, the association between BMSC-Exo carrying miR-223-3p, HDAC2, and the phosphorylation of STAT3 in HPCs ferroptosis and injury induced by HBx was assessed. The interaction between miR-223-3p and HDAC2 was confirmed via RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Various techniques such as cell counting kit-8 assay, western blot, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, lipid peroxidation assay kit, iron assay kit, transmission electron microscopy, and hematoxylin-eosin staining were employed to visualize the extent of HBx-induced podocyte injury and ferroptosis in both in vivo and in vitro.

Results: The attenuation of podocyte ferroptosis can be achieved by inhibiting the phosphorylation of STAT3 in podocytes induced by HBx. Conversely, the upregulation of HDAC2 can enhance STAT3 phosphorylation, thereby promoting podocyte ferroptosis. MiR-223-3p was capable of directly exerting negative regulation on HDAC2 expression. BMSC-Exo carrying miR-223-3p can effectively suppress the expression of HDAC2, ultimately leading to reduce HBx-induced ferroptosis in podocytes by targeting HDAC2 with miR-223-3p and downregulating STAT3 phosphorylation.

Conclusion: This study evidences the potential of BMSC-Exo mediated delivery of miR-223-3p in mitigating HBx-induced ferroptosis in podocytes, thereby offering a novel therapeutic target and approach for treating HBV-GN and alleviating renal injury.
Case report: Sustained complete remission with all-oral MEPED therapy in a patient with Hodgkin’s disease developing resistance to pembrolizumab
Authors: Reuthner K. , Aubele P. , Menhart K. , Rath P. , Harrer D. C. , Herr W. , Hahn J. , Vogelhuber M. , Heudobler D. , Lueke F. , Reichle A. , Grube M.
Published: February 2024

Targeted chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) have expanded the spectrum of therapies for patients with relapsed/refractory (r/r) Hodgkin’s disease and significantly improved the proportion of patients with long-term disease control. However, there is no standardized therapeutic option in case of further progression. Recently, we demonstrated that therapy with MEPED (metronomic chemotherapy, everolimus, pioglitazone, etoricoxib, dexamethasone) is highly effective in patients with r/r Hodgkin’s disease. The benefit after pre-treatment with ICPi has not been studied, yet. Here, we report a patient with progressive Hodgkin’s disease on Pembrolizumab for the first time who achieved sustained complete remission (CR) after initiation of MEPED therapy. A 57-year-old patient was pre-treated with brentuximab vedotin for relapsed advanced Hodgkin’s disease and had received Pembrolizumab for progression from November 2020 to July 2022. Due to further progression, MEPED therapy was started in August 2022 and continued until May 2023. It consisted of a strictly oral daily (28-day cycle) application of low-dose treosulfan 250 mg, everolimus 15 mg, pioglitazone 45 mg, etoricoxib 60 mg, and dexamethasone 0.5 mg. Treatment response was evaluated by F-18 FDG-PET/CT (PET/CT). CR was defined by a negative Deauville score (DS) of 1-3. Already 3 months after starting MEPED, a CR (DS: 3) was confirmed by PET/CT in November 2022. The next follow-up in May 2023 continued to show CR (DS: 3). The therapy was very well tolerated. No hematological or other organ toxicity was observed. However, in May 2023 the patient presented with leg edema and weight gain, most likely due to pioglitazone and the PET/CT revealed suspected everolimus-induced pneumonitis, so MEPED was discontinued and diuretic therapy and treatment with prednisolone was started with gradual dose reduction. This resulted in a rapid complete resolution of the symptoms. The next PET-CT in July 2023 continued to show CR (DS: 3) without evidence of pneumonitis. Currently, therapy with MEPED has not been resumed. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that MEPED therapy is highly effective in a patient with Hodgkin’s disease who has been refractory to ICPi. Sustained CR was achieved over 11 months after initiation of MEPED therapy. Further studies on a larger patient cohort should be performed.
The anticancer activity of bile acids in drug discovery and development
Authors: Li Weijian , Zou Lu , Huang Shuai , Miao Huijie , Liu Ke , Geng Yajun , Liu Yingbin , Wu Wenguang
Published: February 2024

Bile acids (BAs) constitute essential components of cholesterol metabolites that are synthesized in the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and excreted into the intestine through the biliary system. They play a crucial role in nutrient absorption, lipid and glucose regulation, and the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis. In additional, BAs have demonstrated the ability to attenuate disease progression such as diabetes, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and respiratory ailments. Intriguingly, recent research has offered exciting evidence to unveil their potential antitumor properties against various cancer cell types including tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer, oral squamous cell carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, gastric cancer, colon cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, prostate cancer, gallbladder cancer, neuroblastoma, and others. Up to date, multiple laboratories have synthesized novel BA derivatives to develop potential drug candidates. These derivatives have exhibited the capacity to induce cell death in individual cancer cell types and display promising anti-tumor activities. This review extensively elucidates the anticancer activity of natural BAs and synthetic derivatives in cancer cells, their associated signaling pathways, and therapeutic strategies. Understanding of BAs and their derivatives activities and action mechanisms will evidently assist anticancer drug discovery and devise novel treatment.
Changes of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels after different exercise protocols: a systematic review of clinical studies in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Paterno Andrea , Polsinelli Giovanni , Federico Bruno
Published: February 2024

Background: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) serum levels are reduced in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of exercise intensity, volume and type on BDNF levels in patients with PD.

Methods: We searched clinicaltrials.gov, CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science for both controlled and non-controlled studies in patients with PD, published between 2003 and 2022, which assessed Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor before and after different exercise protocols. Exercise intensity was estimated using a time-weighted average of Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET), while exercise volume was estimated by multiplying MET for the duration of exercise. Exercise types were classified as aerobic, resistance, balance and others. We computed two distinct standardized measures of effects: Hedges’ g to estimate differences between experimental and control group in pre-post intervention BDNF changes, and Cohen’s d to measure pre-post intervention changes in BDNF values for each study arm. Meta-regression and linear regression were used to assess whether these effect measures were associated with intensity, volume and type. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023418629.

Results: Sixteen studies (8 two-arm trials and 8 single-arm trials) including 370 patients with PD were eligible for the systematic review. Selected studies had a large variability in terms of population and intervention characteristics. The meta-analysis showed a significant improvement in BDNF levels in the exercise group compared to the control group, Hedges’ g = 0.70 (95% CI: 0.03, 1.38), with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 76.0%). Between-group differences in intensity were positively associated with change in BDNF in a subset of 5 controlled studies. In the analysis which included non-controlled studies, intensity and total exercise volume were both positively associated with BDNF change. No difference was found according to exercise type.

Conclusion: Exercises of greater intensity may increase BDNF levels in patients with PD, while the role of volume of exercise needs to be further explored.