bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Use Collaborative Art-Making for Dialogue and Communication
Authors:   Institute of Development Studies, Bellwood-Howard Imogen , Taylor Peter , Niang Aminata
Published: August 2023

Artists have often used artworks to express emotions and thus prompt public dialogue about contemporary challenges. At the same time, it has been suggested that collaborative art-making can be used in environmental deliberation processes, where stakeholder groups discuss contentious challenges such as the effects of flooding. Policy actors have rarely been deeply involved in these processes. Our recent research showed that collaborative art could be used to develop relationships between groups, including policy actors, in deliberation processes, by creating artworks to bring concerns into the public domain.
Collaborative Art-Making for Deliberation in Africa
Authors: Niang Aminata , Sountoura Lansine , Bukari Kaderi , Bellwood-Howard Imogen , Taylor Peter
Published: August 2023

Across West Africa and East Africa, policy actors and citizens have tended to discuss socio-environmental issues in ways that recognise emotional, subjective viewpoints, but can be antagonistic. Although deliberation literature suggests that collaborative arts-based activities can encourage consideration of affective dimensions, their major value in these emotive, hierarchical and antagonistic contexts is to promote more convivial working relationships.
Bringing Democracy to Governance of Mining for a Just Energy Transition
Authors:   Institute of Development Studies, Marín Anabel
Published: August 2023

Societies are committed to moving from fossil to clean energies. Yet, this transition will not be possible if we do not change the way we extract minerals. Clean energy systems require massive amounts of them, but they create multiple environmental and social problems. In mineral-rich countries, civil society is increasingly contesting mineral extraction. These protests are being effective in challenging investment and can contribute to shifting transformation into more sustainable directions. But for this to happen, we need to democratise the governance of mineral resources. This is indispensable for justice, legitimacy, and the viability of the energy transition.
Crankshaft geometry modification and strength simulations for a new design of diesel opposed-piston engine
Authors: Magryta Paweł , Pietrykowski Konrad
Published: August 2023

The article presents simulation strength calculations of a newly designed crankshaft for a PZL 100 engine with a reciprocating piston design. This engine is the subject of a research and development project co-financed by NCBR. The article presents four successive versions of the crankshaft geometric changes which underwent strength calculations. Such elements as the outer and inner parts of the crankshaft arm were changed in these geometric versions. The geometry of the shaft was changed using Catia v5 software, while strength calculations were carried out in Abaqus software. In summary, one of the presented models was selected for further work due to the possible simplification of the manufacturing process and the reduction of mass and stresses. This model was further investigated in the project.
Isolated penetrating gluteal stab injury with uncontrolled bleeding in Türkiye: a case report
Authors: Celep Ali Metehan , Yiğit Görkem , Çelikten Ayla Ece , Tekin Kudret Atakan , Türkmen Ufuk
Published: August 2023

Arterial injuries in the gluteal region caused by a knife are rare but serious, with mortality rates of up to 25%. This case report presents the management of a young male patient admitted to the emergency department in hypovolemic shock, with uncontrollable bleeding from an isolated penetrating gluteal injury. Additionally, the details of the surgical approach employed are discussed.
Cisplatin Dependent Secretion of Immunomodulatory High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) Protein from Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Gillespie Kevin , Pirnie Ross , Mesaros Clementina , Blair Ian
Published: August 2023

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is secreted from activated immune cells, necrotic cells, and certain cancers. Previous studies have reported that different patterns of post-translational modification, particularly acetylation and oxidation, mediate HMGB1 release and confer distinct extracellular HMGB1 signaling activity. Here we report that cisplatin but not carboplatin induces secretion of HMGB1 from human A549 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Cisplatin-mediated HMGB1 secretion was dose-dependent and was regulated by nuclear exportin 1 (XPO1) also known as chromosomal maintenance 1 (CRM1) rather than adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribosylation, acetylation, or oxidation. HMGB1, as well as lysine acetylation and cysteine disulfide oxidation of secreted HMGB1, were monitored by sensitive and specific assays using immunoprecipitation, stable isotope dilution, differential alkylation, and nano liquid chromatography parallel reaction monitoring/high-resolution mass spectrometry (nano-LC-PRM/HRMS). A major fraction of the HMGB1 secreted by low dose cisplatin treatment of A549 NSCLC cells was found to be in the fully reduced form. In contrast, mainly oxidized forms of HMGB1 were secreted by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)-mediated apoptosis. These findings suggest that inhibition of XPO1 could potentiate the anti-tumor activity of cisplatin by increasing the nuclear accumulation of HMGB1 protein, an inhibitor of cisplatin DNA-adduct repair. Furthermore, low-dose cisplatin therapy could modulate the immune response in NSCLC through the established chemokine activity of extracellular reduced HMGB1. This could potentially enhance the efficacy of subsequent immunotherapy treatment.
Digital Platforms That Do Well and Do Good. Platform Architecture for Sustainability
Authors: Soto R. Andrea Carolina
Published: August 2023

The rise of multi-sided digital platforms has transformed the global economy, enabling individuals and companies to create, deliver, and capture value through innovative connections and network effects. While scholars have studied the core strategy concepts and proposed platform architectures, less attention has been paid to the long-term sustainability of these platforms. This paper addresses this gap by examining the relationship between sustainability and platform architecture. Specifically, it asks what mechanisms characterize digital platforms for sustainability, and whether there are design choices that optimize the business model for sustainability. Using a mixed-methods approach that draws on platform literature, business models, and sustainable innovation, the paper develops an integrative framework to identify elements and design choices in platform businesses which support sustainability outcomes. The framework is then used to classify the business models of the identified platforms, revealing specific design choices for platform architecture that can optimize their business models for sustainability. This contribution to existing literature provides an artifact that allocates key decisions on value creation, delivery, and capture that are key to platforms and includes an additional layer to optimize them for long-term sustainability. As digital platforms continue to drive the economy, this research is relevant not only to platform practitioners, but also to policy makers and society at large.
Study on Microstructures and Resist Corrosion Properties of Two-Step Hot-Dipping Al - Zn Composite Coating on Q345 Steel
Authors: Tian Chong , Li Faguo
Published: August 2023

Q345 steel is widely used in the construction industry, vehicle manufacturing industry, bridge construction industry and many other aspects due to its excellent comprehensive performance. However, due to its high silicon content, direct hot-dip galvanizing will lead to a series of problems, such as easy peeling of the coating due to the "silicon reactivity". In this paper, we adopt the "two-step hot-dipping method", first hot-dip aluminizing and then hot-dip galvanizing, to isolate the substrate and zinc liquid direct contact, so as to avoid the occurrence of "silicon reactivity". Through the microstructure characterization, neutral salt spray corrosion experiments, electrochemical experiments, the results show that: Al-Zn composite coatings from the inside out were perpendicular to the substrate growth of loose Fe2Al5 layer and Al-Zn layer, outbursts generation; Al-Zn composite coatings resistance to neutral salt spray corrosion was far more than the substrate; Al-Zn composite coatings polarization curve corrosion potential than the substrate was lower than that of the substrate by 0.512V, showing a strong corrosion resistance. It shows extremely strong corrosion resistance.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Medicago Truncatula under Long Day Conditions
Authors: Ju Luo Wen , Yajiao Li , Ping Lu Xue , Yang Tong Wei , Chen Caijun , Peijie Ma , Chen Zehui , Wang Xiaoli
Published: August 2023

To explore the expression characteristics and biological functions of related genes of medicago terrestris under long day conditions, and to lay a foundation for revealing the molecular mechanism of medicago terrestris under long day conditions. The leaves of 'R108' tribulus Medicago sativa at branch stage (A), bud stage (B), initial flowering stage (C) and full flowering stage (D) were sequenced by RNA-Seq technology. The genome of Medicago sativa, a related species of Tribulus tribulus, was used as a reference genome for sequence comparison. The transcriptomes of three adjacent periods (A vs B, B vs C, C vs D) were analyzed for differentially expressed genes and photoperiod related differentially expressed genes were screened. A total of 6875 differentially expressed genes were detected. GO functional analysis showed that differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in biological processes, cell components and molecular functions, among which the most differentially expressed genes were involved in cell components. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in circadian rhythm, photosynthesis - antenna protein, ribosome metabolism and other pathways. The number of single nucleotide variants detected by cSNP analysis was 312875, and the frequency of A/G and C/T were the highest. The function of eggNOG was divided into 23 categories, with a total of 26745 genes having similarities, 9008 genes were classified as function unknown, 2669 genes were classified as signal transduction mechanism, 2194 genes were classified as transcription, etc. In different developmental stages (A vs B, B vs C, C vs D), 3463 up-regulated and 3412 down-regulated differentially expressed genes were found. The difference between up-regulated and down-regulated genes was the most obvious between bud stage and initial flowering stage. In addition, a total of 79 flowering genes were found, of which 51 differential genes were screened out to participate in photoperiodic regulation pathway, 23 differential genes were up-regulated, and 28 differential genes were down-regulated. The ratio of gene-LOC11410562(GI), gene-LOC11435974(CO), gene-LOC11422615(TOC1) and gene-LOC11432385(LHY) was higher than that of gene-LOC25500742(PHYA) and gene-LOC11 431402(ELF3), gene-LOC11434778(Col13), gene-LOC25498015(Col6), and gene-LOC11415514(Col9) were preexpressed. The above differentially expressed genes were significantly expressed in different development stages of Terrestris alfalfa, which laid a foundation for further study of the molecular mechanism of Terrestris alfalfa.
Moisture Absorption Characteristics and Subsequent Mechanical Properties Loss of Enset-PLA Composites
Authors: Gelgelu Abebayehu Abdela , Vandaele Maxim , Haenen Sam , Buffel Bart , Desplentere Frederik , Sirahbizu Belete
Published: August 2023

One of the drawbacks of natural fibers and their composites is their inherent hydrophilic nature. The effect of moisture on mechanical properties of a composite is irrefutable. This study deals with hygroscopic characteristics of Enset-PLA composites and its effect on the mechanical properties of the composite. To do this, injection molded composite specimens of different fiber volume fraction; plasticizer ratio, fiber length, and fiber age have been considered. The specimens are exposed to distilled water and the moisture absorption was monitored on a daily base. Subsequently, the specimens are subjected to mechanical loading to determine the effect of moisture on their Strength, Stiffness and strain at break strength. Lastly, individual and joint effects of considered factors have been scrutinized using optimal design of experiment. The result from the study shows that maximum and minimum moisture uptake is noticed for 25% and 10% fiber ratio respectively. Due to moisture effect, tensile and bending strength is decreased by 11% and 5% respectively for 15% fiber volume fraction; while 16% and 13% for 25% fiber volume fraction respectively. Increasing amount of plasticizer increases moisture resistance. The result indicate that Enset-PLA composite have competitive properties and stability when exposed to moisture.
Natural Products and Small Molecules Targeting Cellular Ceramide Metabolism to Enhance Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: Afrin Farjana , Mateen Sameena , Oman Jordan , Lai James C.K. , Barrott Jared , Pashikanti Srinath
Published: August 2023

: Molecular targeting strategies have been used for years to control cancer progression and are often based on targeting various enzymes involved in metabolic pathways. Keeping that in mind, it is essential to know the role of each enzyme in a particular metabolic pathway. In this review, we are providing in-depth knowledge of various enzymes such as ceramidase, sphingosine kinase, sphingomyelin synthase, dihydroceramide desaturase, and ceramide synthase, which are associated with multiple types of cancer that depend on ceramide metabolism. Focus has also been given to discussing physicochemical properties of well-studied inhibitors of natural products origin and their related structures for these enzymes. Targeting ceramide metabolism exhibited promise in mono and combination therapies at preclinical stages to prevent cancer progression and paved the way for the significance of sphingolipid metabolism in cancer treatments. Targeting ceramide metabolizing enzymes will help the medicinal chemist to design potent and selective small molecules for treating cancer progression at various levels.
Relationship between GDP and Municipal Waste: Regional Disparities and Implication for Waste Management Policies
Authors: Blagoeva Nadezhda , Georgieva Vanya , Dimova Delyana
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the relationship between GDP per capita and waste generated in European Union countries, highlighting the importance of this relationship for understanding the environmental consequences of economic growth and formulating waste management policies. The analysis findings demonstrate that, in most cases, higher GDP is associated with higher amounts of waste, although there are exceptions to this trend. A smaller number of countries are also found where no such relationship exists. These are primarily high-income countries in the lower part of the EKC or countries in transition. Cluster analysis reveals regional differences in the relationship between GDP and waste that the economic factors and the level of development in the regions concerned can explain. Bulgaria is among the European countries with the lowest economic growth associated with a large amount of waste. The analysis, therefore, focuses on Bulgaria. The impact of GDP per capita, Human Development Index and Population Density on municipal waste in Bulgaria is studied. The aim is to identify significant relationships and dependencies between these factors and the amount of waste. Based on the results of multiple regression analysis and the findings from municipal waste management data in Bulgaria, specific actions are proposed for municipal waste management in the country. Recommendations are made for developing sustainable waste management policies and sharing best practices between regions.
Ecosystem Management Policy Implications Based on Tonga Main Tuna Species Catch Data 2002–2018
Authors: VAIHOLA SIOSAIA , KININMONTH STUART
Published: August 2023

Tuna species are an important resource to the people of the Pacific, particularly small island countries like Tonga, that have few alternative natural resources. These countries are dependent on this fishery for their nutrition, recreation, government revenue, employment, welfare and culture. Threatening these benefits, however, are global warming and climate uncertainties that affect the presence and distribution of tuna in the Pacific islands countries and territories. There-fore, one of the most important development goals for Tonga involves managing its tuna fish-eries in order to optimize these benefits within the context of climatic impacts. This paper has two main goals. Firstly, we discuss Tonga’s commitment to implement the existing tuna man-agement policies. This commitment permeates through a range of activities to monitoring catch regulations and regulate locally based foreign vessels to fish in the Economic Exclusive Zone of Tonga. This reflects the implementation of an information-based management framework namely, the Tonga National Tuna Fishery Management and Development Plan that is revised every five years. Secondly, the paper identifies key scientific research programs, which form the basis to design more informed future policies towards tuna management. These researches include : i) examining of the bathymetric features of the island nation’s fishing ground, ii) model-ling the spatio-temporal distribution of tuna and, iii) characterizing tuna habitats within an oceanic environment using biophysical oceanographic data within Geographic Information Sys-tem, and iv) impacts of climate change on tuna
Antimicrobial Resistance: Challenges in Embedding the Response into the Health System Framework-An Indian Perspective
Authors: Chandrashekhar Sudha , Prasad Shambhavi , Sadanandan Rajeev , Masthi Ramesh
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses one of the significant challenges for the progress of modern medicine not only by its myriad manifestations on a microbiological plane but also due to its demand for a complex, multisectoral approach for its annulment. While some nations have been actively involved in the deployment of counter measures against AMR, the same have yet to be implemented in India. This can be attributed due to a combination of its epitomizing multivariate nature and the challenges encountered on a ground-level in policy implementation. This review surveys mechanisms and factors promoting incidence of AMR, potential Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation alongside evaluating the efficacy of the One Health approach on national and state levels in curbing the rise of AMR.
Lipid Perturbations in the Saliva, Plasma, and Feces of Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hwang Bo Young , Seo Jae Won , Muftuoglu Can , Mert Ufuk , Guldaval Filiz , Asadi Milad , Karakus Haydar Soydaner , Goskel Tuncay , Veral Ali , Caner Ayse , Moon Myeong Hee
Published: August 2023

A comprehensive lipid profile was analyzed in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using nanoflow ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry. The study investigated 297, 202, and 166 lipids in saliva, plasma, and fecal samples, respectively, comparing NSCLC patients to healthy controls. Lipids with significant changes (>2-fold, p<0.05) were further analyzed in each sample type. Both saliva and plasma exhibited similar lipid alteration patterns in NSCLC, but saliva showed more pronounced changes and fecal lipids had weak correlation with those of saliva and plasma. Total triglycerides (TGs) increased (>2–3 folds) in plasma and saliva but decreased in fecal samples. Three specific TGs (50:2, 52:5, and 54:6) were significantly increased in NSCLC across all sample types. A common ceramide species (d18:1/24:0) decreased in both plasma and saliva but increased in fecal samples. Additionally, phosphatidylinositol 38:4 decreased by approximately 2-fold in plasma and saliva. Phosphatidylserine 36:1 was selectively detected in saliva and showed a subsequent decrease, making it a potential biomarker for predicting lung cancer. The study identifies 27 salivary, 10 plasma, and 16 fecal lipids as candidate markers for NSCLC by statistical evaluations. Moreover, it highlights the potential of saliva in understanding changes in lipid metabolism associated with NSCLC.
Endovascular Revascularization versus Open Surgery with Prosthetic Bypass for Femoro-Popliteal Lesions in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Zenunaj Gladiol , Acciarri Pierfilippo , Baldazzi Giulia , Cosaco Alessio Mario , Gasbarro Vincenzo , Traina Luca
Published: August 2023

Aim. Atherosclerotic complex femoropopliteal lesions have traditionally been treated with bypass surgery. A prosthetic graft is used to save the vein graft for more distal revascularization or when unavailable. However, the endovascular approach has gained popularity and is offered as first-line strategy for complex lesions. This study aimed to evaluate whether endovascular procedures for complex femoropopliteal native lesions can be a first-line treatment strategy over open surgery with prosthetic bypass in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
Methods. A retrospective study was conducted between 2013 and 2021 to identify patients with symptomatic PAD who required limb revascularization at the femoropopliteal segment and complex lesions (TASC II C and D). Primary endpoints were technical success, primary patency, freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (cdTLR), freedom from major adverse limb and cardiovascular events (MALE and MACE), freedom from limb loss, and survival. Secondary endpoints were length of in-hospital stay, duration of the procedure, and costs.
Results. We identified 185 limbs among 174 suitable candidates for comparison, wherein 105 were treated with endovascular procedure and 80 with femoral popliteal prosthetic bypass. Most patients in both groups presented with chronic limb-threatening limb ischemia, and all were ASA >3. There were more octogenarians (p = 0.02) and patients with coronary disease (p = 0.004) in the endovascular group. Median follow-up was 30 months. Technical failure rate for endovascular procedures was 4.8% vs 0% in the open group (p 0.003). Freedom from MACE was similar in both groups. The endovascular group showed superior primary patency (p<0.0001), cdTLR (p<0.0001), MALE (p<0.0001), and freedom from limb loss (p = 0.0018) at 24 months. Further analysis performed for the open above-the-knee subgroup showed that the aforementioned endpoints were similar at 12 months, and favoured the endovascular group at 24 months. Procedural time and in-hospital stay were longer in the open group (p<0.0001 and p<0.001). Finally, procedural cost was 10-fold lower in the endovascular bypass group than in the prosthetic bypass group.
Conclusion. Endovascular procedures for complex femoropopliteal lesions are safe in patients at high risk for surgery and show better outcomes at 24 months than prosthetic bypasses. The latter may be considered as an alternative in cases of endovascular failure.
Influence of pH Value on Microstructure and Properties of Strontium Phosphate Chemical Conversion Coatings on Titanium
Authors: Gu Guochao , Li Yibo , Zuo Kangqing , Xiao Guiyong
Published: August 2023

Strontium (Sr) is a trace element in human body that able to promote bone formation and inhibit bone absorption. The conversion coating of strontium phosphate (Sr-P) on the surface of titanium (Ti) can improve its biological properties, and has a wide application prospect in the fields of dentistry and orthopedics. In this present study, Sr-P coatings with SrHPO4 and Sr3(PO4)2 crystals on Ti are prepared by phosphate chemical conversion (PCC) treatment. And the effect of pH on the properties of Sr-P coatings is researched. The results prove that phase composition, morphology and corrosion resistance of coated Ti are different with the pH values in PCC solution. The morphologies of conversion deposition on Ti change from plat-like to cluster-like, and then homogeneous microcrystals, as pH value changed from 2.50 to 3.25. Only discrete SrHPO4 crystals are generating on substrate at lower pH value, while relative stable Sr3(PO4)2 and SrHPO4 crystals are growing and subsequently forming an integrated coating on Ti as pH is higher than 2.50. The corrosion resistance of coated Ti improves comparing with that of bare Ti because of forming Sr-P coatings with Sr3(PO4)2 phase. In addition, it is indicated that the Sr-P coatings can improve the adhesion and differentiation of BMSCs.
VaccineHero: An XR System That Reduces Toddler’s Discomfort during Vaccination
Authors: Antonopoulos Stavros , Rentoula Vasiliki , Wallace Manolis , Poulopoulos Vassilis , Lepouras Georgios
Published: August 2023

In this work we present VaccineHero, an eXtended Reality system that aims to reduce children’s discomfort during vaccination. In our proposal the child wears a headset during vaccination and watches a short story in VR. The story includes a hero touching the child’s arm and the doctor synchronises the insertion of the needle with the VR content, so that the child is distracted efficiently. A clinical trial has been carried out, involving 2 doctors and a cohort of 16 children, and has shown that the use of VaccineHero reduces children’s discomfort during vaccination by a staggering 40% and totally eliminates extreme discomfort. The implemented solution is extremely affordable, as it can be deployed on simple headsets or even Cardboard devices, a feature that makes it a realistic option for any paediatric practice. It can also be extended to support other medical activities that involve needles, such as blood draw and blood donation.
Storage in the Deep Aquifer: Stochastic Process in Time and Frequency Domain Using Groundwater Level Response to Seismic Activation of the Tohoku Earthquake, Japan, 2011
Authors: Shih David Ching-Fang
Published: August 2023

This study delves the interplay of Rayleigh wave-groundwater-aquifer dynamics, utilizing seismic data from designated stations, particularly the magnitude 9 event on March 11, 2011 (02:46:23 PM epicenter), Tohoku Earthquake, Japan. Auto spectra uncover significant peaks, linking groundwater shifts with Rayleigh waves' vertical motion. High coherence between groundwater levels and seismogram vertical shifts confirms this connection. Coherence analysis validates it within a frequency range. Aquifer storage coefficient estimation aligns with confined aquifer norms, ranging from 1.0E-05 to1.0E-03. This consistency holds true across different methods and other earthquake event, highlighting seismic impact. The research emphasizes seismic relevance for groundwater insight. Expanding datasets is recommended for coefficient precision. These insights enhance understanding of aquifer behavior during seismic events, aiding groundwater management and earthquake readiness in susceptible regions. Further research should expand datasets for coefficient accuracy. Insights advance aquifer behavior comprehension during seismic events, guiding groundwater management and earthquake readiness in prone regions.
Stem cell transcriptional profiles from mouse subspecies reveal cis-regulatory evolution at ribosomal large-subunit genes
Authors: Brem Rachel , Simon Noah , Kim Yu Jin , Bautista Diana , Dutton James
Published: August 2023

A key goal of evolutionary genomics is to harness molecular data to draw inferences about selective forces that have acted on genomes. The field progresses in large part through the development and benchmarking of advanced molecular-evolution analysis methods. Here we evaluated the rigor and performance of a test of directional, cis-regulatory evolution across genes in pathways, using stem cells from Mus musculus subspecies as a model. We discovered a unique program of induction of ribosomal large-subunit genes in stem cells of the Southeast Asian mouse M. m. castaneus relative to its sister taxa, driven in part by cis-regulatory variation. As a complement, we used sequence analyses to find population- and comparative-genomic signatures of selection in M. m. castaneus, at the upstream regions of the ribosomal gene cohort. The unique high-expression program for these loci in M. m. castaneus was recapitulated in stem cell-derived neurons. We interpret our data under a model of changes in lineage-specific pressures across Mus musculus in stem cells with high translational capacity. Together, our findings underscore the rigor of integrating expression and sequence-based methods to generate hypotheses about evolutionary events from long ago.
KEAP1 promotes anti-tumor immunity by inhibiting PD-L1 expression in NSCLC
Authors: Piao Hai-long , Liu Hongxu , Xia Tian , Li Jinghan , Li Siyi , Shi Daiwang , Shi Xiang , Liu Yu , Zhang Yi , Wang Gebang , Zhang Chenlei
Published: August 2023

Immunotherapy has become a prominent first-line cancer treatment strategy. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the expression of PD-L1 induces an immuno-suppressive effect to protect cancer cells from immune elimination, which designates PD-L1 as an important target for immunotherapy. However, little is known about the regulation mechanism and the function of PD-L1 in lung cancer. In this study, we have discovered that KEAP1 serves as an E3 ligase to promote PD-L1 ubiquitination and degradation. We found that overexpression of KEAP1 suppressed tumor growth and promoted cytotoxic T-cell activation in vivo. These results indicate the important role of KEAP1 in anti-cancer immunity. Moreover, the combination of elevated KEAP1 expression with anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy resulted in a synergistic effect on both tumor growth and cytotoxic T-cell activation. Additionally, we found that the expressions of KEAP1 and PD-L1 were associated with NSCLC prognosis. In summary, our findings shed light on the mechanism of PD-L1 degradation and how NSCLC immune escape through KEAP1-PD-L1 signaling. Our results also suggest that KEAP1 agonist might be a potential clinical drug to boost anti-tumor immunity and improve immunotherapies in NSCLC.
Impacts of water surge from mountain railroad tunnels on ecological environments based on the RSEI model
Authors: Liu Wei , Yang Xu , Gao Xin , Zeng Saixing , Zhou Jia , Wu Xiangli , Zhang Jingxiao
Published: August 2023

Tunnels play a significant role in mountain railroad routes and increase the efficiency of railroad traffic. However, water surge from tunnels can seriously impact the ecological environment during the construction period. This study selected a typical mountain railroad tunnel in southwest China and used the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) to evaluate the changes in the ecological environment along the tunnel surge water path and relate the impacts to the main influencing factors throughout the whole tunnel construction cycle. The following conclusions were obtained: (1) The RSEI from 2005 to 2020 mostly ranged within 0.25–0.75. The most severe ecological disturbances occurred in areas directly affected by tunnel construction and along the water surge path; (2) in addition to affecting the surrounding ecological environment during the construction period, tunnel surge water continued to adversely affect the environment during the post-construction period; (3) in the post-construction period, the areas 300–450 m and 750–850 m from the tunnel exit had the largest changes in RSEI. This study provides scientific evidence to support environmental planning for mountain railroad tunnel construction, which is necessary to achieve both efficient tunnel construction and environmental protection.
SOCIETY AND SEXUALITY, an experience of support group in a psychiatric hospital
Authors: CHAUMARTIN Nadia , Blacioti Elena
Published: August 2023

Objective
Describing our experience of a sexuality discussion group for psychiatric inpatients.
Method
Alternating women, men and mixed sessions, to present the anatomy, the sexual physiology and open up a debate around psychosexuality and society.
Results
The women's group themes highlight the link between the sexuality and the female status in society. The men’s group themes are the functional disorders around sexuality and the side effects of psychotropic drugs. The mixed group show interest in informing the other gender of their needs and expectations. The mixed group also aims to receive non-binary patients.
Discussion
We see heterogeneity in the groups, gender differences and complementarity between men and women in the way they evoke their sexual and emotional life, and relationship with sexual pleasure. The patients share their intimacy around emotional or sexual traumatic experiences. The themes highlight a sexuality under the narcissistic dominant, characteristic of narcissistic disorders/ borderline states or psychotic disorders. The group functions, as a therapeutic group providing psychological security. The physician-psychologist pair support the links between biology and psyche regarding sexuality. A caregiver exchange time, post-session supports us in the idea that this group on «Society and sexuality» is both a method of expanding knowledge for both us and the patients but also a method of treatment, because we witness transformations both at an individual level and group psychic work.
Conclusion
A psycho educational and therapeutical speech group about society and sexuality in a psychiatric hospital, opens discussions that are part of global patient care.
Improved Wellbeing and Resilience via Breathwork Interventions for Computer Workers
Authors: Montes Cristina Martinez , Penzenstadler Birgit
Published: August 2023

Context: Individual sustainability is undermined by continuous stress, a circumstance many software developers and computer workers are constantly exposed to via deadlines, over-commitment, and high workload. Purpose: We analyze the experience of IT workers when using a deep breathing practice to improve wellbeing, considering their perception of impacts in both benefits and challenges. Method: We imparted a 12-week breathwork course with IT workers as participants. The course was composed by a weekly program with a wellbeing content topic, a live practice with discussion followed by a breathing session for neuroplasticity. We repeated in a 8-weeks format. We conducted exit interviews after each course finished and conducted thematic analysis. Results: Participants reported a positive experience of enhanced wellbeing and relaxation. The guidance was perceived as friendly and easy to follow. Impact: The results of this research offer experiences of using a breathing technique that could be used to reduce stress levels, and in the long term, it could lay the foundations for improving wellbeing and resilience – two main pillars of individual sustainability.
Evidence of Cryptosporidium parvum and Blastocystis hominis transmission from sewage treated to the Cholga mussel
Authors: Suarez Pilar , Vallejos-Almirall Alejandro , Fernández Italo , Gonzalez-Chavarria Iván , Alonso José Luis , Vidal Gladys
Published: August 2023

Cryptosporidium parvum and Blastocystis hominis are foodborne parasites known for causing diarrhea. They accumulate in mussels grown on contaminated water bodies, due to the discharge of sewage treated from sewage treatment plants (STP). Despite, they are not included in the water microbiology control or monitoring. The goal of this work was to evaluate the transmission of C. parvum. and B. hominis from treated sewage (disinfected by chlorination) to Cholga mussels. Cholga from commercial stores and a sewage treated sample were analyzed. Cryptosporidium spp. was identified by ziehl-neelsen-staining (ZNS) and C. parvum by direct-immunofluorescence-assay (IFA) from ZNS positive samples. B. hominis was identified by PCR using locus SSU rDNA. C. parvum and B. hominis were found in 40% and 45% of Cholga samples, respectively, and both were identified in the sewage treated. SSU rDNA gene alignment from Cholga and sewage treated showed 89% of similarity, indicating that could be the same parasite in both samples. This is the first evidence from treated sewage to Cholga transmission of these parasites in Chile suggesting an environmental contamination with high human risk. Sewage treated microbiological analysis should include these parasites and a combined disinfection systems should be considered to treat sewage when are identified.
Abnormal development of gastrointestinal tract and enteric nervous system of homozygous Foxp2(R552H)-mutated mice
Authors: Fujita-Jimbo Eriko , Nakamura Sachie , Momoi Takashi
Published: August 2023

Forkhead box protein P2 (Foxp2) regulates the expression of genes related to organ morphogenesis. Homozygous Foxp2(R552H) knock-in mice (Foxp2R552H/R552H mice) exhibit abnormal brain development, and die around the weaning period. Here we demonstrated that Foxp2R552H/R552H exhibited abnormal development of gastrointestinal (GI) system including stomach, intestinal rotation, and enteric nervous system (ENS), followed by atrophic features and necrosis, and decreased expressions of genes related to stomach and ENS development such as Barx1 and Sfrp1, antagonist for Wnt/β-catenin signaling and Ret and Phox2B related to migration from neural crest cells (NCCs), respectively. Foxp2+/+ and Foxp2R552H/R552H transgenic mice expressing Foxp2 promoter-mediated mCherry exhibited that Foxp2 directly or indirectly autoregulates its expression in the developing stomach and NCCs. Foxp2 may control Wnt/β-catenin signaling and migration of NCCs via its autoregulation system, but Foxp2(R552H) may not. Our results suggest that Foxp2 is necessary for GI tract and ENS development.
Patient-derived prostate cancer organoids require α6-integrins for self-renewal and recapitulate genetic heterogeneity and histopathology of the original tumors
Authors: Devarajan Raman , Hawash Ayman , Koivusalo Saara , Tervasmäki Anna , Mattila Tiina , Zhang Qin , Näpänkangas Juha , Ahtikoski Anne , Vaarala Markku , Pylkäs Katri , Izzi Valerio , Wei Gong Hong , Manninen Aki
Published: August 2023

Background: Modeling the pathophysiology of prostate cancer (PCa) remains a challenge and primary tissue-derived organoid cultures have emerged as promising models representing good tissue mimicry.
Methods: We have established 36 PCa patient-derived organoid cultures that self-renew and can be maintained long-term. Using CRISPR-mediated genomic editing, selected PCa organoids were also genetically engineered to modulate their tumorigenic and self-renewal properties. We show that PCa organoids can also be readily utilized in drug sensitivity tests. In vivo, orthotopic xenograft studies were performed to recapitulate the original tumor phenotype. Finally, we performed scRNA and bulk RNA sequencing to show the multi-cellular involvement in PCa organoid self-renewal and tumorigenesis.
Results: The morphological properties of cancer organoids were found to correlate with the disease grading. Importantly, detailed analyses of selected organoid lines indicated that they maintain the heterogeneity, gene expression profile, and histological architecture of their primary tumor-of-origin and recapitulate these features in vivo as xenografts. Finally, we show that α6-integrin expression is a requisite for the growth and long-term propagation of human PCa organoids while α2-integrin expression is dispensable. High expression levels of both α6- and α2-integrins have been documented in putative prostate epithelial stem cells which likely play an important role in PCa tumorigenesis. Our single-cell analysis identified a distinct cell population with a stem cell profile and high expression of α6- and α2-integrins.
Discussion: Our data suggest that α6-integrin expression promotes PCa stem cell self-renewal and demonstrates the versatile biomedical utilities of PCa-derived organoid models.
CFD-based Design Optimization of DuctedHydrokinetic Turbines
Authors: Park Jeongbin , Knight Bradford , Liao Yingqian , Mangano Marco , Pacini Bernardo , Maki Kevin , Martins Joaquim , Sun Jing , Pan Yulin
Published: August 2023

Hydrokinetic turbines extract kinetic energy from moving water to generate renewable electricity, thus contributing to sustainable energy production and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It has been hypothesized that a duct can accelerate and condition the fluid flow passing the turbine blades, improving the overall energy extraction efficiency. However, no substantial evidence has been provided so far for hydrokinetic turbines. To investigate this problem, we perform a CFD-based optimization study with a blade-resolved Reynolds-averaged Navier--Stokes (RANS) solver to explore the design of a ducted hydrokinetic turbine that maximizes the efficiency of energy extraction. To handle the high-dimensional design space of the blade and duct geometry, we use a gradient-based optimization approach where the gradients are computed using the adjoint method. The final design is re-evaluated through higher-fidelity unsteady RANS (URANS) simulations. Our optimized ducted turbine achieves an efficiency of about 54% over a range of operating conditions, higher than the typical 46% efficiency of unducted turbines.
Factors Predict the Stroke Specific Quality Of Life In Post Stroke Aphasia Patients in Pakistan
Authors: Kanwal Raheela , Kiyani Humaira Shamim , Aftab Anam , Khan Muhammad Manan Haider , Omer Aadil , Shah Syed Tariq , Haroon Ramsha , Awan Waqar Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Background
Stroke-specific quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome measure in stroke rehabilitation, reflecting the impact of stroke and its associated impairments on an individual's overall well-being and daily functioning. Understanding the factors that predict stroke specific QoL in post-stroke aphasia patients in Pakistan is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving the rehabilitation process.
Objective
to determine the factors predicted the stroke specific quality of life in post stroke aphasia patients in Pakistan.
Methodology
: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 18 months from June 2021 to December 2022 at RHS Rehabilitation Centre Islamabad Pakistan. A total of n = 134 independent participants with fluent and non-fluent aphasia at least six-month post stroke, and able to follow one step command were included in the study through non-probability convenient sampling technique. The stroke specific quality of life (SS-QoL) scale was used to assess the quality of life in the participants, while the list of predictors was developed from the literature. SPSS version 21 was used for statistical analysis.
Result
A multiple regression was run to predict the quality of life from marital status, gender, family status, patient's socioeconomic status, types of strokes, types of aphasia, and comorbidities. These variables statistically significantly predicted quality of life {F(13,120) = 10.366, p < 0.001}. All variables cause 47.8% (Adj. R2 = 0.478) variance in stroke specific quality of life in aphasia patients.
Conclusion
the male gender, married marital status, middle and upper socioeconomic status, ischemic stroke compared to hemorrhagic stroke, fluent aphasia, and the cardiac disease compared to other comorbidities positively affect the quality of life in post stroke aphasia patients. But age and the family system did not show any impact on the quality of life.
A fresh start: the impact of disease uncertainty and self-efficacy on readiness for return-to-work among young and middle-aged colorectal cancer patients with stoma
Authors: Ren Yulan , Zhou Ying , Xia Rui , Yang Yao , Yang Yuan , Tian Di , Lin Yuxia , Zhong Meihua , Xiao Xueying , Wang Qiao , Su Xi
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To explore the influence of disease uncertainty and self-efficacy on the readiness for return-to-work (RRTW) among young and middle-aged colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with stoma.
Methods
An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with stoma who had worked before their CSCdiagnosis. Demographicinformation, the Readiness for Return-To-Work Scale, the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale for Adults (MUIS-A), and the Stoma Self-Efficacy Scale (SSES) were used as the research instruments. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.
Results
The results showed that weekly working hours before the diagnosis and stoma self-efficacy promoted the advance of the level of patients' RRTW; yet, the lack of information and unpredictability dimensions of the disease uncertainty, post-operative time, and type of work hindered it.
Conclusion
In light of the theoretical framework and the impact of disease uncertainty and self-efficacy on RRTW, we suggest that healthcare staff should provide targeted occupational rehabilitation recommendations for patients at the different stages of RRTW and enhance the level of RRTW in terms of disease uncertainty and self-efficacy to boost the occurrence of returning-to-work. Furthermore, it is also critical to strengthen workplace support, appeal to the public to improve the tolerance of patients with stoma, and advocate the improvement of the healthcare system and the relevant social insurance system to help patients make a fresh start.
Variable stars in the field the Galactic bulge globularcluster NGC 6522
Authors: Ferro A. Arellano , Prudil Z. , Yepez M.A. , Fierro I. Bustos , Luna A.
Published: August 2023

An analysis of the variable stars projectedon the field of the Galactic bulge globular cluster NGC6522 is presented. We aimed to differentiate betweenfield stars and true cluster members, and to use ofthe later as indicators of distance and metallicity ofthe cluster. The light curves employed were obtainedfrom the OGLE III and OGLE IV databases, supple-mented with data provided by the Gaia-DR3. Vari-ables of the types RR Lyrae, type II Cepheids, Long Pe-riod giants (LPV) and eclipsing binaries were detectedand their peculiarities were discussed. The proper mo-tions from Gaia-DR3 of were employed to distinguishcluster member stars from field objects. A differen-tial reddening map enabled the production of a cleaner Color-Magnitude diagram. From three RRc clustermember stars we derived [Fe/H]_UVES=–1.16 ±0.09; and D = 8.77 ± 0.16 kpc. The variable V24 with a promi-nent phase modulation resulting from period changesin a time scale of ∼ 1100 days is discussed.
LSM Tree Optimization Through The Implementation of Cuckoo Filters
Authors: Valverde Humberto Cesar Villalta , Kim KwangSik , Kim Kisu , Kwon Jinman , Lim Jaechoon , Jun Yongjoo
Published: August 2023

This study aims to develop an LSM tree that uses two different kinds of probabilistic data structures (PDS). These two data structures are the Bloom Filters and the state-of-the-art Cuckoo Filter released in 2014 by Fan. Cuckoo filters are a perfect choice for saving space and also for deleting keys that are not needed in the algorithm so the filters are synchronized with the keys of all the SSTables. The implementation in this study of Cuckoo filters showed three main advantages (1) Keys that are deleted in the SSTables are immediately reflected in the Cuckoo Filters (2) When SSTables are merged, Cuckoo Filters are also merged by measuring its load factor for availability (3) The performance of Cuckoo Filters compared to Bloom filters after deleting and query shows better performance despite that cuckoo filters are also being updated. This approach is expected to reduce storage space and the amount of time for queries and deletions on the overall data structure. This new optimized LSM tree is expected to be implemented in HBase as future work to check its performance with a real-world database for more empirical results.