bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MANAJEMEN KOMUNIKASI BENCANA DI MASA PANDEMI COVID-19
Authors: Jamalus Jamalus
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui proses manajemen komunikasi bencana pada masa pandemi Covid-19. Hal ini perlu diangkat untuk menjadi pembelajaran bersama dan mengingat bahwa sampai saat ini pun, wabah ini masih menghantui masyarakat dunia, terutama di Indonesia. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif yang bersifat studi pustaka (library research) dengan menggunakan sumber data berupa buku-buku referensi dan artikel-artikel jurnal ilmiah. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa (1) pada aspek perencanaan komunikasi bencana, pelaksanaan manajemen komunikasi bencana pada masa pandemi Covid-19 tidak didahului dengan perencanaan komunikasi bencana yang matang yang terlihat dari banyak narasi dan tindakan pemimpin di Indonesia dalam menghadapi situasi pandemi Covid-19 yang pada awalnya, muncul pro dan kontra mengenai kecemasan dan tingkat kebahayaan virus Corona; (2) pada aspek pengorganisasian komunikasi bencana, walaupun dikatakan kurang cepat tanggap, pemerintah menetapkan pelbagai peraturan yang mengenai penanganan Corona Virus Disease 2019 (Covid-19); (3) pada aspek pelaksanaan komunikasi bencana, dinilai bahwa peraturan yang dikeluarkan pemerintah tidak sejalan dengan semangat reformasi birokrasi karena berpotensi overlapping antartugas pihak yang terkait; (4) pada aspek evaluasi komunikasi bencana, bisa dilakukan secara mingguan dan bulanan yang melibatkan seluruh pihak yang ada dalam tim untuk mengetahui progress kegiatan dan mengetahui kekurangan sebagai bahan dalam diperbaiki di masa depan.
Pengaruh perputaran piutang dan struktur hutang terhadap profitabilitas
Authors: Sulastri Sulastri , Misra Misra
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh perputaran piutang dan struktur hutang terhadap profitabilitas pada perusahaan tekstil dan garment yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI) tahun 2014-2020. Jenis penelitian ini termasuk dalam penelitian kuantitatif. Populasi penelitian ini adalah perusahaan tekstil dan garment yang terdaftar di BEI periode 2014-2020. Teknik pemilihan sampel yang dilakukan untuk pengambilan sampel penelitian ini menggunakan purposive sampling dengan jumlah sampel penelitian sebanyak 13 perusahaan. Periode pengamatan pada penelitian ini selama 7 tahun sehingga total sampel adalah 91. Teknik analisis data menggunakan program SPSS versi 23.0. Hasil didapat perputaran piutang berpengaruh signifikan secara negatif terhadap profitabilitas dengan t hitung > t tabel (2,504>1,991) dan signifikansi 0,014 (0,014<0,05). Struktur hutang tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap profitabilitas denga t hitung < t tabel (1,321<1,991) dan signifikansi 0,191(0,191>0,05). Hasil uji F atau uji simultan menunjukkan bahwa secara bersama-sama perputaran piutang dan struktur hutang berpengaruh signifikan terhadap profitabilitas dengan nilai signifikansi 0,035 (0,035<0,05). Dari hasil koefisien determinasi menunjukkan bahwa hubungan antar variabel bebas dan variabel terikat masih lemah.
PENGARUH HALAL KNOWLEDGE, RELIGIUSITAS, SIKAP KONSUMEN GENERASI Z TERHADAP PERILAKU KONSUMEN PRODUK KOSMETIK HALAL DALAM NEGERI STUDI KUANTITATIF DI LINGKUNGAN KOTA TANGERANG
Authors: Kusuma Rusbiansyah Perdana , Kurniawati Ria
Published: November 2023

Mengkonsumsi produk halal merupakan masalah sosial yang ada di masyarakat dan menjadi tanggung jawab negara. Negara melalui pemerintah memiliki kewajiban untuk menjamin kehalalan suatu produk dan kejujuran para produsen. Saat ini masyarakat muslim sangat memperhatikan status kehalalan suatu produk karena kewajiban mentaati agama dan juga ilmunya. Peningkatan pertumbuhan industri kosmetik halal tercermin dari meningkatnya kesadaran konsumen terhadap bahan-bahan yang terkandung sebagai informasi yang mudah mereka dapatkan. Salah satu faktor yang mempengaruhi peningkatan permintaan produk halal adalah informasi dan pengetahuan konsumen. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah tingkat pengetahuan dan religiusitas konsumen Generasi Z terhadap perilaku pembelian produk kosmetik halal dengan menggunakan Consumer Attitude sebagai variabel intervensi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif, dengan menggunakan data primer. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh konsumen kosmetik halal generasi Z  berasal dari Universitas Islam Sheikh-Yusuf Tangerang.. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menyebarkan kuesioner melalui google form yang kemudian data tersebut akan diolah dan dianalisis menggunakan Partial Least Perangkat pengolah data square (PLS) yang menggunakan metode random bootstrap atau perkalian untuk memastikan bahwa asumsi normalitas tidak menjadi masalah bagi PLS.
PENGARUH KEMAMPUAN KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA PEGAWAI (STUDI KASUS PADA PT SARIGUNA PRIMATIRTA GARUT)
Authors: Sugiayasin Risan , Solihin Yuda Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini di latar belakangi oleh kinerja pegawai bagian produksi PT Sariguna Primatirta Garut yang dirasa masih kurang optimal. Fenomena ini dapat disebabkan oleh beberapa faktor diantaranya masih ada hasil penilaian kinerja pegawai yang berkategori kurang baik dan target pencapain belum maksimal. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui bagaimana gambaran kemampuan kerja, dan kinerja pegawai bagian produksi  di PT Sariguna Primatirta Garut. Dan untuk mengetahui bagaimana pengaruh kemampuan kerja terhadap kinerja pegawai bagian produksi di PT Sariguna Primatirta Garut. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode deskrirptif asosiatif kausal. Adapun populasi dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 36 orang atau seluruh pegawai bagian produksi PT Sariguna Primatirta Garut. Kemudian sampel yang digunakan adalah sampel jenuh. Selanjutnya pengolahan data didapat dari kuesioner yang disebar kemudian di uji  melalui pengujian validitas dan reliabilitas. Dan teknik analis data menggunakan uji korelasi rank spearman, dan uji koefesien determinasi. Berdasarkan hasil pengolahan data yang diperoleh untuk uji validitas rata-rata diatas 0,339 . Kemudian untuk uji reliabilitas pengolahan data yang diperoleh untuk variabel kemampuan kerja sebesar 0,612. Selanjutnya untuk variabel kinerja pegawai sebesar 0,639.Selanjutnya untuk pengolahan teknik analis data uji korelasi rank spearman antara variabel kemampuan kerja terhadap kinerja pegawai diperoleh korelasi sebesar 0,626 hal ini menunjukan adanya pengaruh yang kuat dan uji koefesien determinasi sebesar 0,391 atau 39,1% dan sisanya sebesar 60,9% dipengaruhi  oleh  faktor  lain  yang  tidak  dibahas pada penelitian ini.
DAMPAK FINTECH TERHADAP PERKEMBANGAN PERBANKAN
Authors: Rahman M Arief , Astria Kenny
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini mengkaji dampak fintech terhadap perkembangan perbankan melalui pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa fintech telah menghasilkan layanan keuangan yang inovatif dan mudah diakses, meningkatkan efisiensi operasional perbankan, serta meningkatkan aksesibilitas bagi masyarakat. Namun, tantangan terkait keamanan data dan regulasi perlu diperhatikan oleh sektor perbankan. Dalam kesimpulannya, penelitian ini menggarisbawahi pentingnya mengoptimalkan penggunaan fintech dalam mengembangkan layanan keuangan yang lebih baik dan responsif terhadap perubahan dalam industri perbankan.
Study of Species of Campanula L. Subgenus Found in Karabakh and Zangezur Flora
Authors: Akbarova A. , Salimov R.
Published: November 2023

Karabakh and Zangezur are the south-eastern end of the Lesser Caucasus, and they are distinguished by their climate and landscape diversity with a rich in vegetation. Analysis of literature and herbarium specimens collected in this region is an invaluable source for a comprehensive assessment of the state of the ecosystems of Karabakh and Zangezur over the past 30 years.This is the purpose of the study of the genus Campanula which is widespread in the northern hemisphere and is of special importance for the flora of the Caucasus. According to literature, 110 species of this genus are found in the Caucasus, and 46 — in Azerbaijan. The history of the study of the genus, its geographical distribution, as well as the taxa found in the flora of Karabakh and Zangezur were compared, and the herbarium data stored in the BAK were analyzed. It was found that the subgenus Campanula L., which is the richest of the subgenus in terms of the number of species of the genus, includes 11 sections. And 18 taxa belonging to 7 sections are found in the flora of Azerbaijan, 11 taxa of which are found in the flora of Karabakh and Zangezur. During the examination of herbarium specimens of the genus Campanula L. stored in the BAK, it was found that 20 herbarium specimens belonging to 5 species were collected from Karabakh region.
Study of Soil Fertility in Reclaimed Areas of Azerbaijan
Authors: Gadzhiev A. , Rustamov Ya.
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the study of soil fertility served by the Main Mil-Garabagh Collector, based on agrochemical indicators. Long-term exploitation of land in agriculture includes the application of various mineral fertilizers, intensive irrigation, agrotechnical and reclamation measures, etc. These activities lead to changes in the physical and chemical properties of the soil. For the study, soil samples were taken at different depths and soil types in areas where reclamation activities were carried out. At least 3 samples from each sampling point. All data obtained were calculated and average statistical indicators of soil fertility were given.
Features of Combining Traditional and Modern Pedagogical Technologies at a University
Authors: Bekturov T.
Published: November 2023

Modern and traditional pedagogical technologies are various methods and tools used in education for the learning and development of students. They can be combined effectively to provide a comprehensive and quality educational experience. Modern educational technologies are often aimed at increasing interactivity, accessibility, and individualization of learning. They can effectively complement traditional methods, enriching the educational experience of students. It is important to select and adapt those technologies that best suit specific learning goals and needs. Pedagogical technologies are of great relevance in education, as they contribute to the development of students’ competencies and prepare them for the modern world and the future labor market.
Federated statistical analysis: non-parametric testing and quantile estimation
Authors: Becher Ori , Marcus-Kalish Mira , Steinberg David M.
Published: November 2023

The age of big data has fueled expectations for accelerating learning. The availability of large data sets enables researchers to achieve more powerful statistical analyses and enhances the reliability of conclusions, which can be based on a broad collection of subjects. Often such data sets can be assembled only with access to diverse sources; for example, medical research that combines data from multiple centers in a federated analysis. However these hopes must be balanced against data privacy concerns, which hinder sharing raw data among centers. Consequently, federated analyses typically resort to sharing data summaries from each center. The limitation to summaries carries the risk that it will impair the efficiency of statistical analysis procedures. In this work, we take a close look at the effects of federated analysis on two very basic problems, non-parametric comparison of two groups and quantile estimation to describe the corresponding distributions. We also propose a specific privacy-preserving data release policy for federated analysis with theK-anonymity criterion, which has been adopted by the Medical Informatics Platform of the European Human Brain Project. Our results show that, for our tasks, there is only a modest loss of statistical efficiency.
Development of an antimicrobial resistance plasmid transfer gene database for enteric bacteria
Authors: Algarni Suad , Foley Steven L. , Tang Hailin , Zhao Shaohua , Gudeta Dereje D. , Khajanchi Bijay K. , Ricke Steven C. , Han Jing
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) are integral parts of the conjugation process in enteric bacteria. These secretion systems are encoded within the transfer (tra) regions of plasmids, including those that harbor antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. The conjugal transfer of resistance plasmids can lead to the dissemination of AMR among bacterial populations.

Methods: To facilitate the analyses of the conjugation-associated genes, transfer related genes associated with key groups of AMR plasmids were identified, extracted from GenBank and used to generate a plasmid transfer gene dataset that is part of the Virulence and Plasmid Transfer Factor Database at FDA, serving as the foundation for computational tools for the comparison of the conjugal transfer genes. To assess the genetic feature of the transfer gene database, genes/proteins of the same name (e.g., traI/TraI) or predicted function (VirD4 ATPase homologs) were compared across the different plasmid types to assess sequence diversity. Two analyses tools, the Plasmid Transfer Factor Profile Assessment and Plasmid Transfer Factor Comparison tools, were developed to evaluate the transfer genes located on plasmids and to facilitate the comparison of plasmids from multiple sequence files. To assess the database and associated tools, plasmid, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) data were extracted from GenBank and previous WGS experiments in our lab and assessed using the analysis tools.

Results: Overall, the plasmid transfer database and associated tools proved to be very useful for evaluating the different plasmid types, their association with T4SSs, and increased our understanding how conjugative plasmids contribute to the dissemination of AMR genes.
A novel chromatin-remodeling complex variant, dcPBAF, is involved in maintaining transcription in differentiated neurons
Authors: Soshnikova Nataliya V. , Azieva Asya M. , Klimenko Nataliya S. , Khamidullina Alvina I. , Feoktistov Alexey V. , Sheynov Andrey A. , Brechalov Alexander V. , Tatarskiy Victor V. , Georgieva Sofia G.
Published: November 2023

The Polybromo-associated BAF (BRG1- or BRM-associated factors) (PBAF) chromatin-remodeling complex is essential for transcription in mammalian cells. In this study, we describe a novel variant of the PBAF complex from differentiated neuronal cells, called dcPBAF, that differs from the canonical PBAF existing in proliferating neuroblasts. We describe that in differentiated adult neurons, a specific subunit of PBAF, PHF10, is replaced by a PHF10 isoform that lacks N- and C-terminal domains (called PHF10D). In addition, dcPBAF does not contain the canonical BRD7 subunit. dcPBAF binds promoters of the actively transcribed neuron-specific and housekeeping genes in terminally differentiated neurons of adult mice. Furthermore, in differentiated human neuronal cells, PHF10D-containing dcPBAF maintains a high transcriptional level at several neuron-specific genes.
Small but strong: the emerging role of small nucleolar RNA in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Sun Xue , Wang Gebang , Luo Wenting , Gu Hui , Ma Wei , Wei Xiaowei , Liu Dan , Jia Shanshan , Cao Songying , Wang Yu , Yuan Zhengwei
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Numerous studies have demonstrated that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a primary role in CVD development. Therefore, studies on the mechanisms of ncRNAs are essential for further efforts to prevent and treat CVDs. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are a novel species of non-conventional ncRNAs that guide post-transcriptional modifications and the subsequent maturation of small nuclear RNA and ribosomal RNA. Evidently, snoRNAs are extensively expressed in human tissues and may regulate different illnesses. Particularly, as the next-generation sequencing techniques have progressed, snoRNAs have been shown to be differentially expressed in CVDs, suggesting that they may play a role in the occurrence and progression of cardiac illnesses. However, the molecular processes and signaling pathways underlying the function of snoRNAs remain unidentified. Therefore, it is of great value to comprehensively investigate the association between snoRNAs and CVDs. The aim of this review was to collate existing literature on the biogenesis, characteristics, and potential regulatory mechanisms of snoRNAs. In particular, we present a scientific update on these snoRNAs and their relevance to CVDs in an effort to cast new light on the functions of snoRNAs in the clinical diagnosis of CVDs.
Exploring clonality and virulence gene associations in bloodstream infections using whole-genome sequencing and clinical data
Authors: Neidhöfer Claudio , Neuenhoff Marcel , Jozič Robert , Atangcho Brenda , Unsleber Sandra , Neder Ulrike , Grumaz Silke , Parčina Marijo
Published: November 2023

Background

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) remain a significant cause of mortality worldwide. Causative pathogens are routinely identified and susceptibility tested but only very rarely investigated for their resistance genes, virulence factors, and clonality. Our aim was to gain insight into the clonality patterns of different species causing BSI and the clinical relevance of distinct virulence genes.

Methods

For this study, we whole-genome-sequenced over 400 randomly selected important pathogens isolated from blood cultures in our diagnostic department between 2016 and 2021. Genomic data on virulence factors, resistance genes, and clonality were cross-linked with in-vitro data and demographic and clinical information.

Results

The investigation yielded extensive and informative data on the distribution of genes implicated in BSI as well as on the clonality of isolates across various species.

Conclusion

Associations between survival outcomes and the presence of specific genes must be interpreted with caution, and conducting replication studies with larger sample sizes for each species appears mandatory. Likewise, a deeper knowledge of virulence and host factors will aid in the interpretation of results and might lead to more targeted therapeutic and preventive measures. Monitoring transmission dynamics more efficiently holds promise to serve as a valuable tool in preventing in particular BSI caused by nosocomial pathogens.
First description and validation of a new method for estimating aortic stenosis burden and predicting the functional response to TAVI
Authors: de la Torre Hernandez Jose M. , Veiga Fernandez Gabriela , Ben-Assa Eyal , Iribarren Julia , Sainz Laso Fermin , Lee Dae-Hyun , Ruisanchez Villar Cristina , Lerena Piedad , Garcia Camarero Tamara , Iribarren Sarrias Jose L. , Cuesta Cosgaya Jose M. , Maza Fernandez Maria E. , Garilleti Celia , Fradejas-Sastre Victor , Benito Mercedes , Barrera Sergio , Gil Ongay Aritz , Vazquez de Prada Jose A. , Zueco Javier
Published: November 2023

Background

Up to one-fifth of patients continue to have poor quality of life after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), with an additional similar proportion not surviving 1 year after the procedure. We aimed to assess the value of a new method based on an integrated analysis of left ventricular outflow tract flow velocity and aortic pressure to predict objective functional improvement and prognosis after TAVI.

Methods

In a cohort of consecutive patients undergoing TAVI, flow velocity–pressure integrated analysis was obtained from simultaneous pressure recordings in the ascending aorta and flow velocity recordings in the left ventricular outflow tract by echocardiography. Objective functional improvement 6 months after TAVI was assessed through changes in a 6-min walk test and NT-proBNP levels. A clinical follow-up was conducted at 2 years.

Results

Of the 102 patients studied, 82 (80.4%) showed objective functional improvement. The 2-year mortality of these patients was significantly lower (9% vs. 44%, p = 0.001). In multivariate analysis, parameter “(Pressure at Vmax − Pressure at Vo)/Vmax” was found to be an independent predictor for objective improvement. The C-statistic was 0.70 in the overall population and 0.78 in the low-gradient subgroup. All echocardiographic parameters and the valvuloarterial impedance showed a C-statistic of <0.6 for the overall and low-gradient patients. In a validation cohort of 119 patients, the C-statistic was 0.67 for the total cohort and 0.76 for the low-gradient subgroup.

Conclusion

This new method allows predicting objective functional improvement after TAVI more precisely than the conventional parameters used to assess the severity of aortic stenosis, particularly in low-gradient patients.
Research on the ratio of multicomponent emulsion flooding system
Authors: Zhiqiang Man , Wenxiang Wu
Published: November 2023

In recent years, field test and industrialized application of ASP (alkaline/surfactant/polymer) flooding has been carried out in oilfields, which has obtained an obvious effect on increasing oil and decreasing water and good economic efficiency. However, due to the large proportion of alkali in the ASP flooding system, there are problems such as severe scaling and high cost during field tests, which restrict the promotion of ASP flooding. In order to reduce the amount of alkali used, achieve the goal of reducing scaling and costs, and meanwhile improve emulsification performance while maintaining interfacial activity, a multicomponent emulsion flooding system was developed by combining emulsifier HEFR2 with petroleum sulfonate and sacrificial agent LSCP1 with NaOH.Through laboratory experiments, the water extraction rate, particle diameter, Tsi value, and interfacial activity of the multicomponent emulsion flooding system were tested under different conditions. The results show that when the mass ratio of petroleum sulfonate to emulsifier HEFR2 is between 3:1 and 5:1, and the mass ratio of sacrificial agent LSCP1 to NaOH is between 3:1 and 7:1, the multicomponent emulsion flooding system can maintain good emulsification stability and interfacial activity. The multicomponent emulsion flooding system significantly reduces the amount of alkali used, and the cost of chemical agents is 11% lower than that of the ASP flooding system. At the same time, it achieves the goal of improving the stability of emulsifiers, maintains interfacial activity and reduces costs. This technology has broad application prospects.
Deep learning integration optimization of electric energy load forecasting and market price based on the ANN–LSTM–transformer method
Authors: Zhong Bin
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Power load forecasting and market price analysis have become crucial in the context of complex power energy systems and volatile market prices. Deep learning technology has gained significant attention in time series forecasting, and this article aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of power load and market price predictions by integrating and optimizing deep learning models.

Methods: We propose a deep learning framework that combines artificial neural networks (ANNs), long short-term memory (LSTM), and transformer models to address key challenges in electricity load forecasting and market price prediction. We leverage ANNs for their versatility and use LSTM networks for sequence modeling to generate initial predictions. Additionally, we introduce transformer technology and utilize its self-attention mechanism to capture long-distance dependencies within the data, further enhancing the model’s performance.

Results: In our experiments, we validate the proposed framework using multiple public datasets. We compare our method with traditional forecasting approaches and a single-model approach. The results demonstrate that our approach outperforms other methods in predicting power load and market prices. This increased accuracy and reliability in forecasting can be of significant value to decision-makers in the energy sector.

Discussion: The integration of deep learning models, including ANN, LSTM, and transformer, offers a powerful solution for addressing the challenges in power load and market price prediction. The ability to capture long-distance dependencies using the transformer's self-attention mechanism improves forecasting accuracy. This research contributes to the field of energy and finance by providing a more reliable framework for decision-makers to make informed choices in a complex and dynamic environment.
Current methodological approaches in studying the use of advanced digital technologies in migration management
Authors: Nalbandian Lucia , Dreher Nick
Published: November 2023

The use of technology in migration management has increased in recent years. As such, practitioners and scholars are increasingly interested in the real and potential use of advanced technologies in migration management. This paper offers an early review of academic and gray literature on the use of advanced digital technologies (ADTs) in migration management processes. The primary focus of this review is literature that discusses migration management technologies—ADTs used by institutional actors (governments, NGOs, transnational institutions). This paper is divided into four thematic areas, aimed at providing a summary of major trends in the literature, including research methodologies, types of technologies, purpose of technologies and the migrants impacted by the technologies explored. Based on the literature reviewed, we identify common themes and areas that merit further exploration and research. To close, we offer an early view into the current uses of advanced digital technologies that we have identified in our Migration Tech Tracker, an interactive tool that consolidates the information found in the literature review of the paper including the various uses of technology by the diverse range of actors in the migration sector. The paper leverages the information from the Tracker to both indicate where and how emerging technologies are being used to govern migrants and simultaneously to identify ADTs that are being analyzed, reported on and researched and those that remain underexplored.
Expression of Bruton´s tyrosine kinase in different type of brain lesions of multiple sclerosis patients and during experimental demyelination
Authors: Elkjaer Maria L. , Waede Mie R. , Kingo Christina , Damsbo Karina , Illes Zsolt
Published: November 2023

Background

Inhibition of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) is an emerging multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. BTK inhibitors (BTKi) cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate B cells and microglia, major cellular players in active and chronic active lesions.

Objective

To assess potential lesional and cellular targets of BTKi, we examined BTK expression in different type of MS white matter (WM) lesions, in unmanipulated CNS resident cells, and in a degenerative MS model associated with microglia activation in vivo.

Methods

We examined BTK expression by next-generation RNA-sequencing in postmortem 25 control WM, 19 NAWM, 6 remyelinating, 18 active, 13 inactive and 17 chronic active lesions. Presence of B cells and microglia were examined by immunohistochemistry. CNS resident cells were isolated from the mouse brain by magnetic sorting. BTK expression was examined by quantitative PCR in isolated cells and dissected corpus callosum from mice treated with cuprizone (CPZ).

Results

BTK expression was significantly increased in active and chronic active lesions with upregulated complement receptors and Fcγ receptors. Active lesions contained high number of perivascular B cells, microglia, and macrophages. Chronic active lesions were characterized by microglia/macrophages in the rim. Microglia expressed BTK at high level (120-fold) in contrast to other CNS cell types (2-4-fold). BTK expression was increasing during CPZ treatment reaching significance after stopping CPZ.

Conclusion

Considering BTK expression in MS lesions and resident cells, BTKi may exert effect on B cells, microglia/macrophages in active lesions, and limit microglia activation in chronic active lesions, where tissue damage propagates.
Dysregulated monocyte-derived macrophage response to Group B Streptococcus in newborns
Authors: Ravi Denho , Ntinopoulou Erato , Guetta Nessim , Weier Manuela , Vogel Verena , Spellerberg Barbara , Sendi Parham , Gremlich Sandrine , Roger Thierry , Giannoni Eric
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is a leading pathogen of neonatal sepsis. The host-pathogen interactions underlying the progression to life-threatening infection in newborns are incompletely understood. Macrophages are first line in host defenses against GBS, contributing to the initiation, amplification, and termination of immune responses. The goal of this study was to compare the response of newborn and adult monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) to GBS.

Methods

Monocytes from umbilical cord blood of healthy term newborns and from peripheral blood of healthy adult subjects were cultured with M-CSF to induce MDMs. M-CSF-MDMs, GM-CSF- and IFNγ-activated MDMs were exposed to GBS COH1, a reference strain for neonatal sepsis.

Results

GBS induced a greater release of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p70 and IL-23 in newborn compared to adult MDMs, while IL-18, IL-21, IL-22, TNF, RANTES/CCL5, MCP-1/CCL2 and IL-8/CXCL8 were released at similar levels. MDM responses to GBS were strongly influenced by conditions of activation and were distinct from those to synthetic bacterial lipopeptides and lipopolysaccharides. Under similar conditions of opsonization, newborn MDMs phagocytosed and killed GBS as efficiently as adult MDMs.

Discussion

Altogether, the production of excessive levels of Th1- (IL-12p70), Th17-related (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-23) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines is consistent with a dysregulated response to GBS in newborns. The high responsiveness of newborn MDMs may play a role in the progression of GBS infection in newborns, possibly contributing to the development of life-threatening organ dysfunction.
Immune landscape and prognostic gene signatures in gastric cancer: implications for cachexia and clinical outcomes
Authors: Sui Xiangyu , Wu Guohao
Published: November 2023

Cachexia, a debilitating condition that worsens patient outcomes, often accompanies gastric cancer, a malignancy that is prevalent worldwide. The extensive research explored the interconnected molecular and immune aspects of stomach cancer, with a particular emphasis on cachexia. By employing the GEO database, we identified genes that were expressed differently in gastric cancer patients suffering from cachexia. Following the analysis of Weighted Gene Co-expression Network (WGCNA), gene modules intricately linked to particular immune cells were revealed, indicating a significantly disrupted tumor microenvironment. A strong predictive model was developed, centered around key genes such as CAMK4, SLC37A2, and BCL11B. Surprisingly, this particular model not only showed better predictive abilities in comparison to conventional clinical factors but also exhibited a strong connection with increased infiltration of macrophages and T cells. These discoveries suggest the presence of an immune-suppressing and tumor-promoting atmosphere among individuals at a greater risk. Moreover, the utilization of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) established a connection between the genes linked to our risk score and vital immune-related pathways, thereby strengthening the pivotal involvement of immunity in the development of gastric cancer. To summarize, our discoveries provide a more profound comprehension of the molecular and immune mechanisms that support cachexia in gastric cancer, presenting a hopeful basis for upcoming advancements in treatment.
Preparation and properties of antistatic high-strength aramid III/MWCNTs-OH fibers
Authors: Zhang Dingyi , Yu Wenhe , Ni Yalin , Hao Xiangyang , Lu Fenghao , Xu Haijia
Published: November 2023

Composite fibers made from aramid III and hydroxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-OH) combine the excellent mechanical and electrical properties of both components, resulting in strong antistatic performance. However, it is of paramount importance to ensure the homogeneous dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with hydroxyl groups (MWCNTs-OH) within the aramid III spinning solution and optimize the compatibility between the two constituents to augment the overall performance of the composite fibers. To this end, this investigation successfully accomplished the dispersion of MWCNTs-OH in the spinning solution and probed the dispersion mechanism using molecular dynamics simulations. Moreover, composite fibers, comprising 2.4 weight percent MWCNTs-OH, were initially fabricated using the wet spinning method. These fibers displayed a uniform texture and a tensile strength of 1.210 GPa, signifying a noteworthy enhancement of 113.25% in comparison to the strength prior to modification. With respect to thermal behavior, the fibers exhibited a mass reduction of 21.24% within the temperature range of 0°C–538°C. In the temperature interval from 538°C to 800°C, the mass loss diminished to 10.31%, representing a substantial 71.03% reduction when compared to the unmodified state. Remarkably, even when subjected to temperatures exceeding 800°C, the composite fibers retained a residual mass of 68.45%, indicating a notable 61.17% increase from their initial condition. In terms of electrical properties, the fibers exhibited a specific resistance (ρ) of 3.330 × 109 Ω cm, demonstrating effective antistatic behavior. In summary, the antistatic composite fibers studied in this paper can effectively mitigate the hazards of static electricity in various applications, including military protection and engineering equipment in both military and civilian fields.
Quantitative and qualitative sex difference in habenula-induced inhibition of midbrain dopamine neurons in the rat
Authors: Bell Dana , Waldron Vaughn J. , Brown P. Leon
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Clinically relevant sex differences have been noted in a number of affective, behavioral, cognitive, and neurological health disorders. Midbrain dopamine neurons are implicated in several of these same disorders and consequently are under investigation for their potential role in the manifestation of these sex differences. The lateral habenula exerts significant inhibitory control over dopamine neuronal firing, yet little is known about sex differences in this particular neurocircuit.

Methods

We performed in vivo, single unit, extracellular recordings of dopamine neurons in female and male anesthetized rats in response to single pulse stimulation of the lateral habenula. In addition, we assessed baseline firing properties of lateral habenula neurons and, by immunochemical means, assessed the distribution of estrogen receptor alpha cells in the lateral habenula.

Results

Habenula-induced inhibition of dopamine neuronal firing is reduced in female rats relative to male rats. In addition, male rats had a higher prevalence of rebound excitation. Furthermore, the firing pattern of lateral habenula neurons was less variable in female rats, and female rats had a higher density of estrogen receptor alpha positive cells in the lateral habenula.

Discussion

We found that the dopamine neuronal response to habenular stimulation is both qualitatively and quantitatively different in female and male rats. These novel findings together with reports in the contemporary literature lead us to posit that the sex difference in dopamine inhibition seen here relate to differential firing properties of lateral habenula neurons resulting from the presence of sex hormones. Further work is needed to test this hypothesis, which may have implications for understanding the etiology of several mental health disorders including depression, schizophrenia, and addiction.
Differential expression of mechanotransduction complex genes in auditory/vestibular hair cells in zebrafish
Authors: Smith Eliot T. , Sun Peng , Yu Shengyang Kevin , Raible David W. , Nicolson Teresa
Published: November 2023

Ciliated sensory cells such as photo- and olfactory receptors employ multiple types of opsins or hundreds of unique olfactory G-protein coupled receptors to respond to various wavelengths of light or odorants. With respect to hearing and balance, the mechanotransduction machinery involves fewer variants; however, emerging evidence suggests that specialization occurs at the molecular level. To address how the mechanotransduction complex varies in the inner ear, we characterized the expression of paralogous genes that encode components required for mechanotransduction in zebrafish hair cells using RNA-FISH and bioinformatic analysis. Our data indicate striking zonal differences in the expression of two components of the mechanotransduction complex which are known to physically interact, the transmembrane channel-like 1 and 2 (tmc1/2) family members and the calcium and integrin binding 2 and 3 (cib2/3) paralogues. tmc1, tmc2b, and cib3 are largely expressed in peripheral or extrastriolar hair cells, whereas tmc2a and cib2 are enriched in central or striolar hair cells. In addition, a gene implicated in deaf-blindness, ush1c, is highly enriched in a subset of extrastriolar hair cells. These results indicate that specific combinations of these components may optimize responses to mechanical stimuli in subtypes of sensory receptors within the inner ear.
Maternal dietary patterns and acute leukemia in infants: results from a case control study in Mexico
Authors: Muñoz-Aguirre Paloma , Denova-Gutiérrez Edgar , Pérez-Saldivar María Luisa , Espinoza-Hernández Laura E. , Dorantes-Acosta Elisa M. , Torres-Nava José R. , Solís-Labastida Karina A. , Paredes-Aguilera Rogelio , Velázquez-Aviña Martha M. , Espinosa-Elizondo R. Martha , Miranda-Madrazo M. Raquel , González-Ávila Ana Itamar , Rodríguez-Villalobos Luis Rodolfo , Dosta-Herrera Juan José , Mondragón-García Javier A. , Castañeda-Echevarría Alejandro , López-Caballero M. Guadalupe , Martínez-Silva Sofía I. , Rivera-González Juan , Hernández-Pineda Norma Angélica , Flores-Botello Jesús , Pérez-Gómez Jessica Arleet , Rodríguez-Vázquez María Adriana , Torres-Valle Delfino , Olvera-Durán Jaime Ángel , Martínez-Ríos Annel , García-Cortés Luis R. , Almeida-Hernández Carolina , Flores-Lujano Janet , Núñez-Enriquez Juan Carlos , Mata-Rocha Minerva , Rosas-Vargas Haydeé , Duarte-Rodríguez David Aldebarán , Jiménez-Morales Silvia , Mejía-Aranguré Juan Manuel , López-Carrillo Lizbeth
Published: November 2023

Background

Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related mortality among children aged 5–14 years in Mexico, with acute leukemia being the most common cancer among infants. Examining the overall dietary patterns allows for a comprehensive assessment of food and nutrient consumption, providing a more predictive measure of disease risk than individual foods or nutrients. This study aims to evaluate the association between maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and the risk of acute leukemia in Mexican infants.

Methods

A hospital-based case–control study was conducted, comparing 109 confirmed acute leukemia cases with 152 age-matched controls. All participants (≤24 months) were identified at hospitals in Mexico City between 2010 and 2019. Data on a posteriori dietary patterns and other relevant variables were collected through structured interviews and dietary questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to estimate the association between maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and the risk of acute leukemia in infants.

Results

The “Balanced & Vegetable-Rich” pattern, characterized by a balanced consumption of various food groups and higher vegetable intake, exhibited a negative association with acute leukemia when compared to the “High Dairy & Cereals” Pattern (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.29, 0.90). We observed that mothers who gave birth to girls and adhered to a healthy dietary pattern during pregnancy exhibited significantly lower odds of their children developing AL compared to those who gave birth to boys [OR = 0.32 (95% CI 0.11, 0.97)]. Our results underscore the significance of maternal nutrition as a modifiable factor in disease prevention and the importance of prenatal health education.
Association of coffee and caffeine consumption with risk and prognosis of endometrial cancer and its subgroups: a Mendelian randomization
Authors: Chen Ziyu , Liu Chaosheng , Wu Jing , Kong Fandou
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous studies have not established potential causal associations between coffee and caffeine consumption in endometrial cancer (EC) and its subgroups. Therefore, we used a two-sample MR method to assess the causal association between coffee and caffeine consumption and EC risk. We also evaluated the association between these genetically predicted exposures and EC prognosis.

Materials and methods

This study used 12 and two independent single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with coffee and caffeine consumption as instrumental variables at a genome-wide significance level of p < 5 × 10–8. The EC Association Consortium (ECAC) performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis of 12,906 cases and 108,979 controls. FinnGen Consortium performed a GWAS analysis of 1,967 EC cases and 167,189 controls. The primary technique we employed was inverse-variance weighted, followed by the weighted median, MR-Egger regression, and MR robust adjusted profile score methods. We used the MR pleiotropy residual sum, Outlier test, and MR-Egger regression to assess Outlier and pleiotropic variants. We also conducted a sensitivity analysis through the leave-one-out method.

Results

Genetically predicted coffee consumption was not associated with EC and its subgroups in the ECAC, and the association was consistent in the FinnGen consortium. After excluding eight SNPs with confounding factors, the study performed sensitivity analyses, delivering consistent results. We also observed that caffeine consumption was not correlated with EC risk. As confirmed by MR analysis, selected SNPs determined that most do not significantly impact the likelihood of developing EC.

Conclusion

Our study indicated no convincing evidence supports coffee and caffeine consumption causing EC or impacting its prognosis. More studies are needed to validate the results.
Metastatic lymph node burden impacts overall survival in submandibular gland cancer
Authors: Wang Lei , Shi Weihong
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the effect of the number of positive lymph nodes (LNs) on the overall survival (OS) of patients with submandibular gland cancer (SmGC).

Methods

Patients who had undergone neck dissection for SmGC were retrospectively enrolled in this study. The effect of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) N stage, the number of positive LNs, LN size, LN ratio, and extranodal extension (ENE) on OS and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was evaluated using Cox analysis. Prognostic models were proposed based on the identified significant variable, and their performance was compared using hazard consistency and discrimination.

Results

In total, 129 patients were included in this study. The number of positive LNs rather than LN ratio, LN size, and ENE was associated with OS. A prognostic model based on the number of positive LNs (0 vs. 1–2 vs. 3+) demonstrated a higher likelihood ratio and Harrell’s C index than those according to the 7th/8th edition of the AJCC N stage in predicting OS and RFS.

Conclusions

The effect of LN metastasis on OS and RFS was mainly determined by the number of positive LNs. A validation of this finding is warranted in adenoid cystic carcinomas that were not included in this study.
Terminology - clarifying the current confusion and presenting the correct terminology
Authors: Ansari Ejaz
Published: November 2023

Most readers will be familiar with terminology (from meetings and conferences) that we, the editors, would deem to be incorrect or confusing. In general, we all tend to accept the information conveyed to us without really questioning what the terms truly mean. Therefore, the subsequent chapters discussing the IOLs in question should be studied with this in mind since a lot of familiar terminology will be used in those chapters, which, strictly speaking, may not be in line with the most accurate terminology and classification. The reader is encouraged to read this full article to be mindful of the current confusion surrounding IOL terminology and what the correct terminology should be. This is so that one is better prepared to understand and question the mechanism of action and side effects of IOLs that one is planning to use.
A 7-month-old girl with a suspected air embolism complication during a living-donor liver transplantation procedure: a case report
Authors: Huang Dan , Yang Liqun , Yu Weifeng , Qi Bo
Published: November 2023

Background

Pediatric liver transplantation is an important modality for treating biliary atresia. The overall survival rate of pediatric liver transplantation has significantly improved. The incidence of perioperative cardiac events was evaluated, and risk factors were also investigated in adult patients undergoing liver transplantation in previous studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of a cardiac event during a pediatric living-donor liver transplantation.

Case summary

Our report describes the management of cardiac events during a liver transplantation in a 7-month-old girl. The ST segment began to increase to 3.0 mm immediately after reperfusion, with peak ST-segment elevation reaching 13.2 mm after 45 min. The procedure ended uneventfully after continuous symptomatic and etiological treatment. It was considered to be the occurrence of an acute air embolism complication during the procedure based on the electrocardiograph and biomarkers. An echocardiogram during follow-up showed a patent foramen ovale with a left-to-right shunt tract width of 2.7 mm.

Discussion

Pediatric liver transplantation has become a state-of-the-art treatment for children with end-stage liver disease and can improve the quality of life to some extent. These children may be complicated with congenital heart disease, which increases the risk of surgery. Application of echocardiogram, close monitoring, and appropriate management may reduce the incidence of perioperative cardiac events.