bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Trends in Parkinson’s Disease Related Mortality from 1999-2020: A National Analysis
Authors: Sokhal Balamrit Singh , Prasanna Kumar Menon Sowmya , Shepherd Thomas , Muller Sara , Arora Amit , Mallen Christian
Published: September 2024

Introduction Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most common neurodegenerative movement disorder and is associated with significant disability. The prevalence is rising, and studies have reported potential sex and race disparities in patient outcomes. Data about the demographic trends in PD-related mortality in the United States (US) is limited. This descriptive study aimed to report the national demographic trends in PD-related mortality over a 20-year period. Methods The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiological Research (CDC-WONDER) Underlying Cause of Death database from January 1999 to December 2020 was used to determine the PD-related age adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) stratified by age, sex, ethnicity and geographic area, with the 1999 deaths as the reference group. Annual percentage change (APC) for AAMR was then calculated using Joinpoint regression. Results There were 515,884 PD-related deaths in the study period. The AAMR increased from 5.3 per 100,000 population in 1999 to 9.8 per 100,000 in 2020. Males had consistently higher AAMR than females and white race had consistently higher overall AAMR (7.6 per 100,000), followed by American Indians/Alaska Natives (4.4 per 100,000), Asians/Pacific Islanders (4.1 per 100,000) and Black/African Americans (3.4 per 100,000). The Midwest had the highest AAMR followed by West, South and Northeast. Utah, Idaho and Minnesota had the highest state-level AAMR. Conclusions This study identified significant age, sex, race and geographic disparities in PD-related mortality in the US. Older age, male sex, white race and Midwest locality were associated with the highest AAMR.
From data literacy to artificial intelligence literacy: background and approaches
Authors: Tibor Koltay
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study is to examine the characteristics of data literacy, which – on the long run – promises to become a fundamental component of artificial intelligence literacy (AI literacy). In addition to conducting a scoping review on the interrelated topics of data literacy and artificial intelligence literacy, we also draw upon our expertise in the field of data literacy and mention among others digital literacy, media literacy and their critical approaches.
In light of the considerable diversity of approaches and opinions, a significant portion of the extensive body of literature was subjected to careful examination, with a view to elucidating the nature and role of data literacy and AI literacy.
The issue of AI literacy is gaining increasing attention. It is therefore important to review its history and characteristics by examining the relationship between it and other forms of digital literacy, and in particular data literacy.
¿Discapacidad sexualidad? Desde los protagonistas
Authors:   Universidad Nacional Jorge Basadre Grohmann. Tacna, Perú, Sologuren García Gema , Somocurcio Sologuren Natalia Gema
Published: September 2024

Esta investigación muestra la realidad de las personas con discapacidad, como sujetos sexuados, con identidades, deseos, amatoria, vivencias que expresan diversidad; asimismo, se evidencia que la sexualidad sigue siendo tabú, sometida a mitos y estereotipos desde una concepción machista que afecta su bienestar, lo que atenta contra los derechos sexuales y reproductivos. El Estado peruano debe proponer políticas públicas, sustentadas en el enfoque de derechos humanos, reconociendo el potencial de las personas con discapacidad y su derecho a la igualdad de oportunidades, incorporando los derechos sexuales y reproductivos, garantizando la educación afectivo sexual integral, que incluya la sexualidad en diversas discapacidades, para que los docentes aborden la temática de estudiantes con necesidades especiales. Del mismo modo, generar intervenciones específicas para la atención de sus necesidades; para ello, se requiere la revisión del perfil y nivel de especialización del equipo de profesionales de los servicios de salud involucrados en la atención integral de las personas con discapacidad y parejas, la que debe ser oportuna y adecuada para adaptarse mejor a su condición.
Master Plan Kolam Renang sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Potensi Wisata Daerah dan Ekonomi Warga Desa Petungsewu
Authors: Nindyawati Nindyawati , Risdanareni Risdanareni , Dewi Permata , Rahayuningsih Rahayuningsih
Published: September 2024

Potensi pengembangan wisata terpadu di desa Petungsewu masih sangat tinggi, namun fasilitas umum yang menarik bagi para wisatawan belum tersedia. Dengan memanfaatkan kondisi topograsi di lokasi perlindungan udara yang berkontur, pemanfaatan area disekitar tempat perlindungan udara sebagai sentra kolam renang terpadu yang terdiri dari kolam renang anak, kolam ikan, pedagang buah dan restoran merupakan salah satu solusi yang tepat guna untuk rest area. Daerah Petungsewu memiliki tanah desa yang belum dilakukan pemberdayaan terhadap aset yang dimiliki. Luas tanah yang belum digarap sekitar 3500 m2. Hal ini perlu perencanaan lokasi perencanaan terutama daerah rest area agar dapat merencanakan pembangunannya secara bertahap. Penduduk Desa Petungsewu ingin memberdayakan tanah untuk menarik wisatawan berkunjung dengan merencanakan kolam renang kolam ikan, tempat mengingat merupakan daerah yang sejuk dan dilalui oleh wisatawan dari Kota Batu.
Pelatihan Kerajinan Tangan Strapbag Macrame Dan Pembukuan Keuangan Sederhana Pada Komunitas Wanita Produktif Di Kota Malang
Authors: Cahyantini Aryntika
Published: September 2024

Pelatihan kerajinan tangan "Strapbag Macrame" dan pembukuan keuangan sederhana bagi komunitas wanita produktif di Kota Malang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemandirian ekonomi dan keterampilan para peserta. Program ini memberikan pengetahuan tentang teknik macrame untuk pembuatan strapbag yang memiliki nilai artistik dan jual tinggi serta mengajarkan pembukuan keuangan sederhana untuk mengelola usaha peserta dengan lebih baik. Melalui metode pelatihan yang melibatkan teori, praktik langsung, pendampingan, dan monitoring, peserta diharapkan dapat mengembangkan keterampilan baru dan mengelola keuangan usaha mikro dengan lebih efektif. Keunggulan utama program ini adalah peningkatan keterampilan artistik dan manajemen keuangan, sementara tantangannya mencakup keterbatasan sumber daya dan kesulitan pemasaran. Dengan strategi pemasaran yang tepat, produk strapbag macrame memiliki potensi besar untuk sukses di pasar lokal dan online, sehingga mampu meningkatkan kesejahteraan ekonomi peserta secara berkelanjutan dan memberdayakan komunitas wanita produktif di Kota Malang.
Inovasi Agroteknologi: Produksi Metabolit Sekunder Trichoderma Sp. Sebagai Solusi Pengelolaan Penyakit Cabai Rawit Di Kelompok Tani Mekar Sari 2
Authors: Samad Abdul , Suci Ida Ayu , Hamdani Hamdani , Ayen Rosalina Yuliana
Published: September 2024

Serangan penyakit patek atau antracnose pada tanaman cabai rawit (Capsicum frutescens) merupakan masalah yang sering dialami para petani dalam melakukan budidaya tanaman ini sehingga mengalami penurunan produksi. Dalam praktek pengelolaan penyakit ini, penggunaan pestisida sintesis masih menjadi primadona bagi petani. Penggunaan bahan ini dalam jangka panjang dapat menimbulkan masalah baru bagi lingkungan akibat residu yang dihasilkan. Tujuan dari kegiatan ini adalah meningkatkan produksi cabai rawit pada Kelompok Tani Mekar Sari 2, Desa Sungai Rengas, Kecamatan. Sungai Kakap, Kabupaten. Kubu Raya melalui pelatihan pembuatan metabolit sekunder Trichoderma sp dan aplikasinya pada tanaman cabai rawit (C. frutescens). Tahapan kegiatan meliputi: observasi dan identifikasi, perencanaan kegiatan, pelaksanaan kegiatan pelatihan, penerapan atau pengaplikasian, evaluasi program kegiatan, pertisipasi mitra dalam kegiatan, serta monitoring dan evaluasi keberlanjutan program kegiatan. Para petani yang terlibat dalam kegiatan ini (n=25) mengalami peningkatan pengetahuan yaitu dengan rata-rata nilai 36,2 (pre test) menjadi 94,4 (post test) atau mengalami peningkatan pengetahuan sebesar 61,65 %. Para petani juga berperan aktif dalam praktek pembuatan metabolit sekunder Trichoderma sp. dan sekaligus pengaplikasiannya.
Pengolahan Limbah Cair Tempe Pada Industri Skala Kecil Di Kepanjen, Kabupaten Malang
Authors: Sonalitha Elta , Hidayatulail Basitha Febrinda , Arianto Nur Alif , Nachrowie Nachrowie , Rozaq Rozaq , Bungalawele Stepin Bless Etnaf
Published: September 2024

Limbah cair industri tempe adalah sisa cairan yang dihasilkan dari proses pembuatan tempe secara massal. Limbah ini umumnya mengandung air, bahan organik seperti protein dan karbohidrat, serta kadang-kadang senyawa nitrogen seperti amonia. Limbah cair ini perlu dikelola dengan baik karena dapat mencemari lingkungan jika tidak ditangani dengan benar. Proses pengolahan limbah cair industri tempe umumnya terdiri dari filtrasi, oksidasi, dan pemurnian. Untuk mengurangi dampak limbah tempe terhadap lingkungan, penting untuk melakukan pengelolaan limbah yang baik, seperti pengolahan limbah sebelum dibuang, penggunaan kembali limbah sebagai pupuk cair organik dan penggunaan teknologi ramah lingkungan dalam pengolahan limbah tempe. Metode pendekatan yang ditawarkan untuk menyelesaikan permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh mitra adalah pembekalan ketrampilan tentang lingkungan yang sehat, pengetempean pengolahan limbah tempe dan pemanfaatan cairan pengolahan limbah. Pelatihan implementasi program pengolahan limbah yang memadukan antara kegiatan ceramah dan praktek, penataan lingkungan produksi dan pengolahan limbah dengan harapan di masa yang akan datang terbangun Lingkungan yang sehat dan bersih. Ketercapaian target kegiatan yaitu pengetahuan lingkungan terhadap pengrajin tempe dusun legok kabupaten kepanjen meningkat, hal ini diketempei dari survey tentang lingkungan yang diaksanakan sebelum dan sesudah kegiatan. Tingkat ketercapaian ketepatan solusi antara persoalan, kebutuhan atau tantangan yang  ditangani dan metode yang diterapkan mendapatkan reaksi positif dari mitra.
Hypoxia influences the extent and dynamics of suitable fish habitat in Chesapeake Bay, USA
Authors: Schonfeld AJ , Ralph GM , Gartland J , St-Laurent P , Friedrichs MAM , Latour RJ
Published: September 2024

Intra-annual patterns of hypoxia in Chesapeake Bay have been recorded since the mid-1900s, but anthropogenic inputs and climate change have exacerbated the volume and extent of hypoxic waters, which mobile marine fishes avoid. This estuary provides important habitat for many seasonally resident species but declines in relative abundance and relative habitat usage have been documented. An understanding of the relationship between environmental conditions and habitat suitability could assist in evaluating the stock status of these species. To characterize baseline habitat associations for Micropogonias undulatus, Leiostomus xanthurus, Paralichthys dentatus, and Cynoscion regalis, ecological niche models were developed relating catch-per-unit-effort data from a fisheries-independent trawl survey conducted within Chesapeake Bay to environmental covariates. Model output indicated that impacts of climate change on the environmental conditions, including continued increases in temperature and decreases in dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration, will likely further the decline in estuarine utilization of these species. The niche envelopes were then paired with hindcasts from an estuarine-carbon-biogeochemical regional model to derive estimates of spatiotemporal habitat suitability. The patterns in habitat suitability do not match those of declining abundance, indicating that dynamics outside of Chesapeake Bay are likely driving the shift. An auxiliary model was used to replace hypoxic DO concentrations with normoxic concentrations to evaluate the influence of hypoxia on habitat suitability. Both hypoxic severity and extent displayed significant associations with the quantity of suitable habitat available to each species in the bay. Results characterize the complexity of the dynamics underpinning observed trends in habitat utilization.
Role of Nitric Oxide in Adaptation to Hypoxia and Adaptive Defense
Authors: Manukhina EB , Mashina SYu , Smirin BV , Lyamina NP , Senchikhin VN , Vanin AF , Malyshev IYu
Published: September 2024

Adaptation to hypoxia is beneficial in cardiovascular pathology related to NO shortage or overproduction. However, the question about the influence of adaptation to hypoxia on NO metabolism has remained open. The present work was aimed at the relationship between processes of NO production and storage during adaptation to hypoxia and the possible protective significance of these processes. Rats were adapted to intermittent hypobaric hypoxia in an altitude chamber. NO production was determined by plasma nitrite/nitrate level. Vascular NO stores were evaluated by relaxation of the isolated aorta to diethyldithiocarbamate. Experimental myocardial infarction was used as a model of NO overproduction; stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SP) were used as a model of NO shortage. During adaptation to hypoxia, the plasma nitrite/nitrate level progressively increased and was correlated with the increase in NO stores. Adaptation to hypoxia prevented the excessive endothelium-dependent relaxation and hypotension characteristic for myocardial infarction. At the same time, the adaptation attenuated the increase in blood pressure and prevented the impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation in SHR-SP. The data suggest that NO stores induced by adaptation to hypoxia can either bind excessive NO to protect the organism against NO overproduction or provide a NO reserve to be used in NO deficiency.
Role of PD-L1 SP263 Assay in Cancer Immunotherapy: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pai Trupti , Aiyer Hema Malini , Kulkarni Bijal , MN Vidya , Patne Shashikant C.U. , Sewlikar Sandeep , Deshmukh Jayesh
Published: September 2024

Over the past decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment landscape for many types of cancers, leading to significant improvements in patient survival. Treatments like nivolumab, pembrolizumab, durvalumab, and atezolizumab have shown remarkable efficacy. Among the various biomarkers used to guide ICI therapy, PD-L1 is one of the most extensively studied. The PD-L1 SP263 assay is one of the most commonly used assays for identifying PD-L1 status. The Food and Drug Administration has approved the PD-L1 SP263 (Ventana) assay as a companion diagnostic test for atezolizumab in early-stage NSCLC and cemiplimab-rwlc in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), thus offering a standardized method to predict patient responses to immunotherapy based on PD-L1 expression levels. It is the product indicated for use in NSCLC that has received Conformité Européenne marking for in vitro diagnostic (CE-IVD) designation as a companion diagnostic assay for treatment with four immunotherapeutic drugs (durvalumab, pembrolizumab, cemiplimab-rwlc, and atezolizumab) and as a complementary diagnostic assay for nivolumab. In this review, we have consolidated the findings about the PD-L1 SP263 assay, focusing on its use and methodology in NSCLC and other tumors. We discuss why the SP263 assay is important, how it compares with the 22C3 assay—the other widely used PD-L1 assay in NSCLC—and its effectiveness across various types of cancer. The PD-L1 SP263 assay has been used in multiple clinical trials (such as ARCTIC, PACIFIC, and IMpower series) to quantify PD-L1 expression. Concordance studies between the PD-L1 SP263 assay and other PD-L1 assays, especially the 22C3 assay, highlight the SP263 assay’s reliability and the potential for interchangeability when quantifying PD-L1 in NSCLC cases. Beyond NSCLC, the PD-L1 SP263 assay demonstrates clinical utility in gastric, hepatocellular, head and neck squamous cell, urothelial, and renal cell carcinomas. Additionally, this review discusses future directions, including utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic accuracy and predict treatment responses, thereby optimizing personalized cancer care.
CRITERIA OF THE DUTCH CLINIC NETWORK PRIOR TO THE APPLICATION OF GENETIC TESTING IN FAMILIAL HYPERLIPIDEMIAE IN A GROUP OF COLOMBIAN PATIENTS
Authors: Dulcey Luis Andrés , Rico Daniela , Theran León Juan , Esteban Badillo Laura , Goméz Jaime Alberto , Hernandez Jorge Andres , Ochoa Castellanos Valentina , Hernandez Navas Valentina
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Familial hyperlipidaemia (FH) is a group of hereditary genetic defects that lead to a significant increase in cholesterol serum concentration. Clinical familial hypercholesterolemia is diagnosed by a high serum level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The prevalence of this condition in the Colombian population is unknown and, on this basis, the Dutch clinic network criteria are considered as an internationally validated tool. Method: The present is an observational study that sought to identify the presence of FH based on the Dutch clinic network criteria. Patients aged 18-95 years who had a record of cardiometabolic risk variables including lipid profile and others were included in the study. Patients that did not have the aforementioned variables as well as secondary causes of hyperlipidaemia were excluded. Results: A higher prevalence was observed in the female sex, in ages oscillating between the fifth and ninth decade, 90% presented a higher percentage of very high cardiovascular risk, and 90% had a history of coronary disease or cerebrovascular disease, these data are consistent with that reported in literature. Conclusions: It is necessary to increase awareness of FH in the general population to raise consciousness of the importance of health management if there are any family members with high cholesterol or early cardiovascular disease (CVD). Future research should be conducted to assess wider implementation of the above regarding FH screening in general practice.
Information activities of the ‘Istanbul Platform’ in 1929-35
Authors: Вовчук Людмила
Published: September 2024

The article is focused on the information activities of the ‘Istanbul Platform’ - an illegal residence of the Ukrainian special services of the Central Committee of the Ukrainian People’s Republic in exile during 1929-35. The basis of this institution’s activities was the presentation of Ukrainians in the international arena as a nation seeking to regain its statehood; outlining and substantiating their spiritual, geopolitical and economic interests, as well as countering anti-Ukrainian propaganda and discrediting the Ukrainian political emigration, launched by Soviet Russia in the interwar period.
In writing the research paper, the author used the principles of objectivity, specific historical approach, integrity, comprehensiveness, systematicity, as well as historical and typological, problematic and chronological, and historical and comparative methods, which helped to consider the topic comprehensively.
Without a proper technical base, funding and other necessary support, being all the time under the ‘watchful eye’ of the Soviet special services, members of the ‘Istanbul Platform’ faithfully carried out information activities not only in Turkey but also in the Middle East. Despite the loss of the Ukrainian nation’s statehood, they sought to explain to European, Middle Eastern and even Far Eastern politicians the significance, role and benefits of restoring an independent and self-sufficient Ukraine on the world map and its importance for global geopolitics and economics. The untimely death of the official representative of the UPR government in exile in Istanbul, Ecumenical Patriarch Photius II, the superiority of Soviet Russia, the lethargy and indecision of world politicians to engage in open confrontation with Moscow, and preparations for World War II led to the collapse of the ‘Istanbul Platform’.
Мемуари жінок і про жінок-учасниць Української революції 1917-1921 рр. на сторінках західноукраїнських часописів міжвоєнного періоду
Authors: Отземко Олена
Published: September 2024

У статті проаналізовано інформаційний потенціал спогадів жінок і про жінок – учасниць національно-визвольної боротьби 1917-1921 рр., опублікованих у західноукраїнських часописах 20-30-х років ХХ ст. Зазначається, що опубліковані твори представлені розлогими мемуарами, короткими міні-споминами, белетризованими мемуарами. Акцентовано увагу на тому, що окрім фактичного матеріалу, який віддзеркалює історію революції, долю жінок у часи революції, трансформацію гендерних відносин, що виявилася у готовності жінок брати на себе чоловічі обов’язки, жіноча мемуаристика є важливим джерелом і в плані вивчення жіночої саморефлексії, усвідомлення жінкою свого місця в світі, у даному випадку, своєї ролі у національно-визвольних змаганнях. Проаналізовані спогади є також джерелом з історії західноукраїнського суспільства міжвоєнної доби, його громадянської активності, що проявлялася, зокрема, через періодичну пресу, залученості до цієї активності жіноцтва.
Освітня та культурно-просвітницька діяльність педагогічного та студентського колективів Української господарської академії в Подєбрадах 1922-1935 роках
Authors: Кузьмінський Сергій
Published: September 2024

Стаття присвячена висвітленню культурно-просвітницької діяльності науково-педагогічного та студентського колективів Української господарської академії у Подєбрадах у 1922-1935-х рр. Тема культурної спадщини української діаспори є сьогодні надзвичайно актуальною, оскільки вона дає можливість побачити загальну картину діяльності української інтелігенції не лише в Україні, а й за її межами, зокрема у Чехословацькій республіці. Незважаючи на те, що українські вчені досліджували діяльність еміграції у міжвоєнний період тема культурно-просвітницької діяльності залишається лише частково розкритою. Отже метою дослідження стало розкриття освітньої та культурно-просвітницької діяльності науково-педагогічного та студентського колективів Української господарської академії у Подєбрадах в 1922-1935 роках та її вплив на суспільні настрої української еміграції. У дослідженні було застосовано генетичний, порівняльно-історичний методи та метод аналізу. Доведено, що крім наукової та навчальної діяльності науково-педагогічний і студентський колективи Української господарської академії здійснювали культурно-просвітницькі заходи через організацію товариств і спілок. Культурно-просвітницька діяльність була спрямована на збереження свідомості представників української діаспори та її ідентифікації.
Україна та Молдова на шляху до євроінтеграції
Authors: Кузнець Тетяна , Фицик Лариса
Published: September 2024

У статті досліджено євроінтеграційний шлях України та Республіки Молдова; прослідковано динаміку економічних, політичних, соціальних відносин між країнами та Європейським Союзом; охарактеризовано ключові фактори, які унеможливили вступ цих держав до ЄС від 1991 до 2024 рр. У статті виокремлено зовнішні та внутрішні фактори, які сприяли як зближенню, так і віддаленню України та Молдови з країнами-членами ЄС. Враховано також суттєву роль Росії, яка всіма можливими способами намагається утримати свій вплив у цих країнах і перешкодити їх приєднанню до Європейського Союзу.
Зроблено висновок, що Україна та Молдова пройшли довгий шлях у напрямку ЄС, змінюючи свої орієнтири то на Європу, то на Росію. На таку часту зміну поглядів впливала зміна влади в обох країнах, яка орієнтувалася як на ЄС, так і на Росію. В Україні це було пов’язано з тим, що деякі українські політики були відверто проросійськими та часто виступали маріонетками «кремля». У Молдові ситуація дещо інша: у країні як промосковські, так і проєвропейські чиновники постійно лавірували між двома сторонами, намагаючись не сваритись ні з одними, ні з іншими. І не можна відкидати шантажі, погрози та пряму агресію «кремля». Проте усі намагання Москви не справдилися, обидві країни ці події лише загартували, консолідували та згуртували у єдиному прагненні назавжди відкинути Росію у минулому та вступити до європейського майбутнього.
First in vivo test of a biodegradable polymeric stent for the Eustachian tube in sheep
Authors: Winkelmann Stina , Lebahn Kerstin , Ezzat Malena , Schmitt Katharina , Napp Alexandra , Oppel Niels , Pohl Friederike , Kampmann Andreas , Grabow Niels , Lenarz Thomas , Paasche Gerrit
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Eustachian tube dysfunction can cause inadequate ventilation of the middle ear and is therefore one of the main reasons for the development of chronic middle ear infections. This can significantly impact the quality of life. There is a variety of treatment options, but in most cases long-term success is limited. For this reason, stenting the Eustachian tube (ET) may be a safe and effective alternative. Biodegradable stents have been developed that support the impaired ET function until natural ventilation of the middle ear via the ET is restored, and dissolve after their function has been fulfilled.

Objective

The purpose of the current study was to investigate feasibility of implantation and degradation kinetics of biodegradable polymer stents in the ET.

Study design

The study was set up as an orientation study.

Methods

Biodegradable stents (diameter: 3.5 mm; length: 15 mm) were made from Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) in a dip-coating process and subsequent laser cutting and were crimped on a balloon catheter. Stent implantation into the ET was performed unilaterally in nine healthy female blackface sheep under endoscopic control with a dedicated insertion tool and an inflation pressure of 10 bar for 2 min. Ventilation of the middle ear was controlled by tympanometry weekly throughout the observation period of 3, 6, or 12 months (three animals each). After the final examination, cone beam computed tomography scans and histological examinations of the ETs were performed.

Results

All stents could be inserted as planned. Pharyngeal orifices of all sheep were closed at half-time and final follow-up inspections. After 3 months, all stents were functional, but already showed first fragment formation. Six months after insertion, the stents had largely collapsed but still held open a residual lumen and after 12 months, the ETs were completely collapsed close to their natural shape. Fragments of various sizes were found distributed in the tissue beneath an epithelialized ET.

Conclusion

The polymeric ET stent can be reliably positioned without generating a patulous ET. It seems to support ET function for about 3 months before functionality is lost.
Chromosomal instability as an architect of the cancer stemness landscape
Authors: Baba Shahnawaz A. , Zakeri Aran , Desgrosellier Jay S.
Published: September 2024

Despite a critical role for tumor-initiating cancer stem cells (CSCs) in breast cancer progression, major questions remain about the properties and signaling pathways essential for their function. Recent discoveries highlighting mechanisms of CSC-resistance to the stress caused by chromosomal instability (CIN) may provide valuable new insight into the underlying forces driving stemness properties. While stress tolerance is a well-known attribute of CSCs, CIN-induced stress is distinctive since levels appear to increase during tumor initiation and metastasis. These dynamic changes in CIN levels may serve as a barrier constraining the effects of non-CSCs and shaping the stemness landscape during the early stages of disease progression. In contrast to most other stresses, CIN can also paradoxically activate pro-tumorigenic antiviral signaling. Though seemingly contradictory, this may indicate that mechanisms of CIN tolerance and pro-tumorigenic inflammatory signaling closely collaborate to define the CSC state. Together, these unique features may form the basis for a critical relationship between CIN and stemness properties.
Phytochemical profile, physicochemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Juniperus phoenicea and Tetraclinis articulate: in vitro and in silico approaches
Authors: Asbabou Ayoub , Hanane Touijer , Gourich Aman Allah , Siddique Farhan , Drioiche Aziz , Remok Firdaous , Saidi Soukaina , Adadi Imad , Khamar Hamid , Almaary Khalid S. , Mekonnen Amare Bitew , Bourhia Mohammed , Bouzoubaa Amale , Zair Touriya
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This research aims to explore the molecular composition, antioxidant capabilities, and antibacterial effects of the essential oils from Tetraclinis articulateata and Juniperus phoenicea.

Methods

Essential oils were extracted using hydrodistillation. Gas chromatography combined with mass spectrometry was used to determine the chemical makeup of essential oils. Two methods are used to assess the antioxidant activity of essential oils: the reduction of iron (ferric reducing antioxidant power or frap) and the trapping of the free radical 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The antimicrobial potential of essential oils was assessed using the diffusion method on a solid-state disk in comparison to nine bacterial and seven fungal souches.

Results and Discussion

The essential oil yields from Tetraclinis articulata and Juniperus phoenicea are 0.46% ± 0.02% and 0.83% ± 0.05%, respectively. According to CG/SM’s chromatographic analyses, the predominant constituent in the essential oil of J. Phoenicea is α-pinène (59.51%), while the main constituents in the essential oil of T. Articulata? are Bornyle acetate (18.91%) and camphor (28.48%). The assessment of antioxidant activities reveals intriguing antioxidant qualities in the essential oils of the species under investigation. T. Articulata essential oils yield the greatest results in the DPPH and FRAP tests, with CI50 values of around 266.9 ± 5.4 μg/mL and EC50 values of 433.16 ± 4.13 μg/mL, respectively. Except for Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus BLACT, and Pseudomonas aeroginosa, the two essential oils have demonstrated significant bactericidal activity against all bacterial and fungal souches (MIC <2 mg/mL et MBC <3.5 mg/mL). The inhibiting effect of these oils on bacterial and fungal development raises potential application areas in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. In addition, the current study investigated the potential antifungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities of the essential oils from Juniperus phoenicea and Tetraclinis articulate plants via the Glide molecular docking methodology, and most of these constituents were observed to be potent therapeutic agents.
Phytochemical analysis, identification of bioactive compounds using GC-MS, in vitro and in silico hypoglycemic potential, in vitro antioxidant potential, and in silico ADME analysis of Chlorophytum comosum root and leaf
Authors: Kavya P. , Theijeswini R. C. , Gayathri M.
Published: September 2024

Chlorophytum comosum is a plant with medicinal potential traditionally used to treat different diseases. The present study aimed to determine the bioactive compounds, hypoglycemic and antioxidant potential of C. comosum root and leaf. The ethyl acetate extracts of C. comosum root and leaf were analyzed by GC-MS to determine the bioactive compounds. The hypoglycemic potential of the extracts was evaluated by α-amylase, α-glucosidase, glucose diffusion inhibitory assays, and glucose adsorption assay. The ethyl acetate extract of C. comosum root inhibited α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and glucose diffusion in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values of 205.39 ± 0.15, 179.34 ± 0.3 and 535.248 μg/mL, respectively, and the leaf extract inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes with IC50 values of 547.99 ± 0.09, and 198.18 ± 0.25 μg/mL respectively. C. comosum root and leaf extracts also improved glucose adsorption. Heptadecanoic acid and dodecanoic acid were identified as potential compounds with hypoglycemic properties through molecular docking. The extracts were also assessed for their antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. C. comosum root and leaf extracts were also able to scavenge DPPH radicals with IC50 values of 108.37 ± 0.06 and 181.79 ± 0.09 µM and ABTS radicals with IC50 values of 126.24 ± 0.13 and 264.409 ± 0.08 µM, respectively. The root and leaf extracts also reduced the ferricyanide complex to ferrocyanide with higher reducing powers of 2.24 ± 0.02 and 1.65 ± 0.03, respectively. The results showed that the ethyl acetate extract of C. comosum root has significant antioxidant and hypoglycemic potential compared to the leaf extract. Thus, it can also be studied to isolate the potential compounds with antihyperglycemic activities.
Integrating genomic profiling to clinical data: assessing the impact of CD147 expression on plaque stability
Authors: Chen Yu , Lu Si , Ren Yong , Fan Jun , Bao Chun-Ping , Zhang Xin , Shi Yan-Kun , Wang Yan , Yang Li-Xia
Published: September 2024

Background

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) continues to be a leading cause of death and illness worldwide. Differentiating stable from unstable coronary plaques is essential for enhancing patient outcomes. This research investigates the role of CD147 as a biomarker for plaque stability among coronary artery disease patients.

Methods

The study began with high-throughput sequencing of blood samples from six patients, divided equally between those with Stable Angina (SA) and Unstable Angina (UA), followed by bioinformatics analysis. Expanding upon these findings, the study included 31 SA patients and 30 patients with ACS, using flow cytometry to examine CD147 expression on platelets and monocytes. Additionally, logistic regression was utilized to integrate traditional risk factors and evaluate the predictive value of CD147 expression for plaque stability.

Results

Initial sequencing displayed a notable difference in CD147 expression between SA and UA groups, with a significant increase in UA patients. Further analysis confirmed that elevated platelet CD147 expression was strongly associated with unstable plaques (OR = 277.81, P < .001), after adjusting for conventional risk factors, whereas monocyte CD147 levels did not show a significant difference.

Conclusion

Elevated CD147 expression on platelets is a crucial biomarker for identifying unstable coronary artery plaques, offering insights into patient risk stratification and the development of targeted treatment strategies. This underscores the pivotal role of molecular research in understanding and managing coronary artery disease, paving the way for improved clinical outcomes.
ProVIA-Kids - outcomes of an uncontrolled study on smartphone-based behaviour analysis for challenging behaviour in children with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Meerson Rinat , Buchholz Hanna , Kammerer Klaus , Göster Manuel , Schobel Johannes , Ratz Christoph , Pryss Rüdiger , Taurines Regina , Romanos Marcel , Gamer Matthias , Geissler Julia
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Challenging behaviour (CB) is a common issue among children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual and developmental disability. Mental health applications are low-threshold cost-effective tools to address the lack of resources for caregivers. This pre-post study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the smartphone app ProVIA-Kids using algorithm-based behaviour analysis to identify causes of CB and provide individualized practical guidance to manage and prevent CB.

Methods

A total of 18 caregivers (M = 38.9 ± 5.0) of children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (44%), intellectual and developmental disabilities (33%) or both (22%) aged 4–11 years (M = 7.6 ± 1.8) were included. Assessments were performed before and after an 8-week intervention period. The primary outcome was the change in parental stress. Caregiver stress experience due to CB was also rated daily via ecological momentary assessments within the app. Secondary outcomes included the intensity of the child's CB, dysfunctional parenting, feelings of parental competency as well as caregivers' mood (rated daily in the app) and feedback on the app collected via the Mobile Application Rating Scale.

Results

We observed increases in parental stress in terms of conscious feelings of incompetence. However, we also saw improvements in parental stress experience due to CB and overreactive parenting, and descriptive improvements in CB intensity and caregiver mood.

Discussion

ProVIA-Kids pioneers behaviour analysis in a digital and automated format, with participants reporting high acceptance. Pilot results highlight the potential of the ProVIA-Kids app to positively influence child behaviour and caregiver mental health over a longer intervention period.

Registration

The study was registered at https://www.drks.de (ID = DRKS00029039) on May 31, 2022.
Causal roles of circulating cytokines in sarcopenia-related traits: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Zhi , Sun Jun , Shi Tengbin , Song Chenyang , Wu Chengjian , Wu Zhengru , Lin Jiajun
Published: September 2024

Background

Epidemiological and experimental evidence suggests that chronic inflammation plays an important role in the onset and progression of sarcopenia. However, there is inconsistent data on the inflammatory cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia. Therefore, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal relationship between circulating cytokines and sarcopenia-related traits.

Methods

The MR analysis utilized genetic data from genome-wide association study that included genetic variations in 41 circulating cytokines and genetic variant data for appendicular lean mass (ALM), hand grip strength, and usual walking pace. Causal associations were primarily explored using the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method, supplemented by MR-Egger, simple mode, weighted median, and weighted mode analyses. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were also performed to ensure the reliability and stability of the results.

Results

Three cytokines [hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10), and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)] were positively associated with ALM (β: 0.0221, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.0071, 0.0372, P= 0.0039 for HGF; β: 0.0096, 95%CI: 4e-04, 0.0189, P= 0.0419 for IP-10; and β: 0.0100, 95%CI: 0.0035, 0.0165, P= 0.0025 for M-CSF). Conversely, higher levels of interleukin-7 (IL-7), monocyte chemotactic protein 3 (MCP-3), and regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) were associated with decreased hand grip strength (β: -0.0071, 95%CI: -0.0127, -0.0014, P= 0.0140 for IL-7; β: -0.0064, 95%CI: -0.0123, -6e-04, P= 0.0313 for MCP-3; and β: -0.0082, 95%CI: -0.0164, -1e-04, P= 0.0480 for RANTES). Similarly, interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) was negatively correlated with usual walking pace (β: -0.0104, 95%CI: -0.0195, -0.0013, P= 0.0254). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings.

Conclusions

Our study provides additional insights into the pivotal role of specific inflammatory cytokines in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia. Further research is required to determine whether these cytokines can be used as targets for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia.
Comprehensive identification of a disulfidptosis-associated long non-coding RNA signature to predict the prognosis and treatment options in ovarian cancer
Authors: Liu Shouze , Jiang Rulan , Wang Xinxin , Zhang Qianqian , Li Shumei , Sun Xiaoxue , Feng Yajun , Du Feida , Zheng Pengtao , Tian Yanpeng , Li Zhongkang , Liu Shikai
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Distinguished from cuproptosis and ferroptosis, disulfidptosis has been described as a newly discovered form of non-programmed cell death tightly associated with glucose metabolism. However, the prognostic profile of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DRLRs) in ovarian cancer (OC) and their biological mechanisms need to be further elucidated.

Materials and methods

First, we downloaded the profiles of RNA transcriptome, clinical information for OC patients from the TCGA database. Generated from Cox regression analysis, prognostic lncRNAs were utilized to identify the risk signature by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis. Then, we explored the intimate correlations between disulfidptosis and lncRNAs. What’s more, we performed a series of systemic analyses to assess the robustness of the model and unravel its relationship with the immune microenvironment comprehensively.

Results

We identified two DRLR clusters, in which OC patients with low-risk scores exhibited a favorable prognosis, up-regulated immune cell infiltrations and enhanced sensitivity to immunotherapy. Furthermore, validation of the signature by clinical features and Cox analysis demonstrated remarkable consistency, suggesting the universal applicability of our model. It’s worth noting that high-risk patients showed more positive responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors and potential chemotherapeutic drugs.

Conclusion

Our findings provided valuable insights into DRLRs in OC for the first time, which indicated an excellent clinical value in the selection of management strategies, spreading brilliant horizons into individualized therapy.
Conditional value at risk-based island partitioning and fault restoration reconfiguration of active distribution networks
Authors: Peng Zhuyi , Zhang Wenjia , Xu Wenchao , Cai Hui , Zhao Feifei , Han Xingning , Gu Kanghui
Published: September 2024

With the increasing penetration of distributed energy in the distribution network, it is urgent to study how to ensure the stable and reliable operation of the power grid under fault conditions. To solve this problem, this study proposes a method for partitioning distribution network islands and reconstructing faults considering the Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR). This method aims to enhance the resilience of the distribution network and the recovery capability of critical loads. Initially, a partitioning model for distribution network islands based on depth-first and breadth-first search algorithms was constructed. Building upon this partitioning, a fault reconstruction method for distribution networks that considers CVaR was developed. This method utilizes CVaR theory to transform costs and quantifies the risk that the uncertainty of distributed energy resources poses to distribution network reconstruction strategies. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated using an improved IEEE 33-node system, generating typical fault scenarios.
Microplastics in indoor dust at Dhaka city: unveiling the unseen contaminants within our homes
Authors: Haque Md. Rashedul , Ahmed Wahida , Islam Rayhan Md. Rayhanul , Rahman Md. Mostafizur
Published: September 2024

Indoor environments, considered sanctuaries from external pollutants, are increasingly recognized as reservoirs for microplastics (MP). This research employed a comprehensive approach, combining dust sampling from diverse indoor spaces, density separation method, and microscopic observation to quantify and characterize microplastic particles. This is the first initial study worldwide that incorporated MP identification in indoor dust from different indoor environments along with factor analysis, health, and ecological risk assessment. The average MP concentration in the indoor environment was 4333.18 ± 353.85 MP/g. The MP distribution pattern was in institutional areas < residential areas < industrial areas < and commercial areas. Black color, fiber, <0.5 mm size was the dominant color, morphology, and size, respectively, among the detected MP from the studied samples. In addition, the polymer types of the MP were detected by Fourier Transform-Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and ten types of polymers were detected while PET was in high abundance. Population number, architectural features of habitat, human activities, urban topography, and particle residence time were determined as responsible factors for MP abundance in indoor areas. The estimated daily intake (EDI) value via ingestion was higher than the inhalation of MP. Infants are highly susceptible to MP exposures. According to Polymer Hazard Index (PLI) and Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) values, the exposure risk was in the minor and extreme risk categories.
Transcriptional bursting dynamics in gene expression
Authors: Zhang Qiuyu , Cao Wenjie , Wang Jiaqi , Yin Yihao , Sun Rui , Tian Zunyi , Hu Yuhan , Tan Yalan , Zhang Ben-gong
Published: September 2024

Gene transcription is a stochastic process that occurs in all organisms. Transcriptional bursting, a critical molecular dynamics mechanism, creates significant heterogeneity in mRNA and protein levels. This heterogeneity drives cellular phenotypic diversity. Currently, the lack of a comprehensive quantitative model limits the research on transcriptional bursting. This review examines various gene expression models and compares their strengths and weaknesses to guide researchers in selecting the most suitable model for their research context. We also provide a detailed summary of the key metrics related to transcriptional bursting. We compared the temporal dynamics of transcriptional bursting across species and the molecular mechanisms influencing these bursts, and highlighted the spatiotemporal patterns of gene expression differences by utilizing metrics such as burst size and burst frequency. We summarized the strategies for modeling gene expression from both biostatistical and biochemical reaction network perspectives. Single-cell sequencing data and integrated multiomics approaches drive our exploration of cutting-edge trends in transcriptional bursting mechanisms. Moreover, we examined classical methods for parameter estimation that help capture dynamic parameters in gene expression data, assessing their merits and limitations to facilitate optimal parameter estimation. Our comprehensive summary and review of the current transcriptional burst dynamics theories provide deeper insights for promoting research on the nature of cell processes, cell fate determination, and cancer diagnosis.
Using multi-omics to explore the genetic causal relationship between colorectal cancer and heart failure in gastrointestinal tumors
Authors: Han Hongjing , Cai Xuefang , Liu Xiangling
Published: September 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) and colorectal cancer are significant public health concerns with substantial morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have indicated a close association between HF and various tumors, including colorectal cancer. Further understanding the potential causal relationship between them could provide insights into their shared pathophysiological mechanisms and inform strategies for prevention and treatment.

Methods

This study employed a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach using genetic variants from large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as instrumental variables (IVs). The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was employed for the MR analysis. Meta-analyses of IVW results from discovery and validation cohorts were performed to enhance the power of detecting causal effects. Sensitivity analyses, including heterogeneity analysis and tests for horizontal pleiotropy, were conducted to test the robustness of the conclusions.

Results

Results from the discovery cohort suggest HF is associated with an approximately 30% increased risk of colorectal cancer (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03-1.69, P=0.025), although this finding did not reach statistical significance in the validation cohort (OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.97-1.46, P=0.090). However, meta-analysis supports HF as a potential risk factor for colorectal cancer (Pooled OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.06-1.25, P=0.007). Reverse MR analysis found no evidence of colorectal cancer increasing HF risk (Pooled OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.99-1.07, P=0.121). Sensitivity analyses (all P>0.05) indicate robustness against heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy.

Conclusion

This comprehensive bidirectional MR study provides genetic evidence supporting a causal link between HF and colorectal cancer. The insights gained enhance understanding of their interconnectedness and may guide future research and clinical practices aimed at mitigating their risks through targeted interventions.