bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model of Professional Communication of Medical Students in English and Its Implementation
Authors: Niyazova Zh.
Published: July 2023

The article talks about what the model of professional communication of medical students in English can be and how it can be implemented in medical professional education. The requirements of competition with a market approach, which are characteristic of modern society, are considered, it is shown how important it is to provide quality education in English, the need for individualized training in the context of medical professional education. It is noted that the problem will be correctly solved only if the English language in medical vocational education in Kyrgyzstan is taught taking into account the conditions that meet the needs of citizens.
Some Ways to Develop the Gender-role Culture of Students Through the Traditional Values of the Kyrgyz
Authors: Koilubaeva B. , Murzakulova Zh. , Ergeshova N.
Published: July 2023

The article aims to provide the content of the education of future teachers with scientific cognitive data on marital relations, gender-role stereotypes in traditional Kyrgyz culture. The task of consistent implementation of the development of the gender-role culture of university students through the traditional values of the Kyrgyz is in efforts to implement the development model of the gender-role culture, which includes pedagogical phenomena from its goal to the result. The research materials are analyzed on the basis of an interdisciplinary approach to the essence and significance of an optional course. One of the necessary components of the model is the knowledge of proverbs that reflect the gender-role culture in the Kyrgyz traditional culture. In this regard, the article presents the results of an experimental study and scientific cognitive conclusions on this issue.
Highest Educational Institution in the Eyes of Kyrgyzstan Students for Today (Trends, Development, Prospects)
Authors: Albanbayeva D.
Published: July 2023

The article explores the current trends, development and prospects of higher education in Kyrgyzstan, based on the opinion of students. In the context of a rapidly changing educational environment, the views and preferences of students are of great importance in understanding the evolution and prospects for the development of higher education. The article is based on a study conducted between 2021 and 2023 among students of various higher educational institutions in Kyrgyzstan. Using survey methods, focus groups and interviews, data were collected on students' opinions about the current state of higher education, its trends and development. The article discusses various aspects of higher education, such as the quality of education, accessibility, the use of modern technologies and methods, international relations, adaptability to the needs of the labor market and prospects for further development. The analysis of students’ opinions and feedback helps to identify current challenges and problems in higher education, as well as to identify potential areas for development and improvement. The article offers recommendations and solutions for educational institutions and government bodies aimed at improving the quality of education, developing innovative approaches and adapting to modern requirements. The analytical overview presented in the article serves as a valuable source of information for decision-making in the field of higher education in Kyrgyzstan and can be used by stakeholders to understand and take into account the views of students when planning future development strategies.
State Policy for the Prevention of Preterm Birth Implemented by the Leading Foreign Countries
Authors: Rustamov J.
Published: July 2023

This paper examines the negative impacts of early marriage and pregnancy on both the individual and the community. The practice of early marriage, defined as marriage before the age of 18, is prevalent in many cultures and is often driven by economic, social, and cultural factors. The consequences of early marriage and pregnancy are numerous and multifaceted. The physical health of young mothers is often compromised due to the high risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, child brides are more likely to experience sexual and physical violence and suffer from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The effects of early marriage and pregnancy also extend beyond the individual and have significant social and economic implications.
Development of Democracy in the Islamic World
Authors: Osmonov S. , Bekmurzaeva G. , Abdyrazakova Z. , Asilbek uulu B.
Published: July 2023

It is impossible, and it is not necessary to identify, but it is possible and necessary to use, attract tools to ensure equal rights, freedom, fair government, reduce injustice and tyranny according to the principles of Islam and democracies. In the modern socio-politic space, two factors change the attitude towards Islam and its understanding: globalization and the intensification of the process of Islamic revival, especially among young people. The population is no longer isolated in their national cultures and countries, it lives in a common, global information space.
Islam in the Building of the State
Authors: Osmonov S. , Bekmurzaeva G. , Abdyrazakova Z. , Asilbek uulu B.
Published: July 2023

The place and role of the state building of Islam lies in the fact that the laws and principles of organizing society and the state within the framework of the religious system were already sent down to Muslims from the very beginning. These principles and norms were historically perceived by the ulama (the learned ones) to organize one state based on the Islamic community (ummah), and not many different nation-states based on the nation (consisting of different faiths) and geographical territory.
Equivalent Classification of Verb Forms in English and Kyrgyz Languages (Based on the Gerund and Special Forms of the Verb)
Authors: Sopukulova A.
Published: July 2023

In the Kyrgyz language, there are various forms of verbs that do not preserve the basic lexical and grammatical meaning of the verbs. We call them special forms of verbs. The same phenomenon occurs with verbs in English grammar. They are called impersonal verbs. Is to classify verb forms in English and Kyrgyz languages based on gerund and special forms of the verb. The article analyzes the forms of verbs in two languages, although their names are different, proves the similarities and differences in their functions and meanings in the sentence, and also establishes a classification of equivalence. In the Kyrgyz language there are also various forms of verbs that do not preserve the main lexical and grammatical meaning of the verbs. We analyzed the forms of verbs in English and Kyrgyz languages and proved that although their names are different, they have both similarities and differences in their function and meaning.
Conceptualization and Categorization of Emotions as a Way of Forming a National Picture of the World
Authors: Isakova M.
Published: July 2023

Recently, in the humanities, there has been an increased interest in the study of the emotional sphere of a person and its role in everyday practical, cognitive, cognitive and communicative speech activities of people, in the formation and regulation of their behavior in society, which is reflected in numerous international conferences. on the issue of emotivity and the growing growth of scientific works: articles, monographs, dissertations and methodological manuals within the framework of the theory of ‘emotivism’ in psychology, sociology, ethnology, philosophy, cognitive science, linguistics and other sciences. The aim of the study is a comprehensive cognitive-linguistic description of the emotives of joy in the English, Russian and Kyrgyz languages, their semantics and national specifics in the individual author's linguistic consciousness.
The Well-being Concept in the Kyrgyz and English Linguistic Worldview (By the Example of Proverbs and Sayings)
Authors: Saipova G. , Naimanova Ch.
Published: July 2023

The relevance of the research is based on the growing interest in the study of the Well-being concept in Kyrgyz cognitive linguistics. The Well-being concept reflects the cultural, spiritual and moral values of any culture including Kyrgyz and English. The novelty of the research is that the Well-being concept has been analyzed in the framework of the Kyrgyz and English language views of the world. This article is devoted to the study of the of Kut concepts in the Kyrgyz and Well-being in the English language pictures of the world. A comparative analysis of the concepts identified their common features and differences, as well as how these concepts are related to the values and beliefs of cultural communities. The article also examines and classifies into semantic groups proverbs and sayings, various expressions and terms related to the concepts. The results of the study can be useful for understanding cultural differences and similarities in the perception of Well-being and Spirituality, as well as for the development of inter-cultural communication and mutual understanding.
Analisis kemampuan berpikir kritis ditinjau dari kecemasan matematis pada sekolah berbasis agama Islam
Authors: Zulfah Habibah Nurhani , Miatun Asih
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan kemampuan berpikir kritis ditinjau dari kecemasan matematis menggunakan materi SPLTV pada SMA Plus Islam Village Tangerang. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif model studi kasus. Subjek penelitian ini adalah enam orang perempuan kelas X, diambil menggunakan hasil kuesioner kecemasan matematis, nilai PTS siswa, dan rekomendasi guru. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan metode tes kemampuan berpikir kritis, metode angket kecemasan matematis, dan metode wawancara. Analisis data digunakan dengan mereduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitiannya yaitu subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis tinggi memenuhi indikator interpretasi dan analisis. Pada indikator evaluasi dan inferensi subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis tinggi masih belum terpenuhi. Subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis sedang memenuhi indikator interpretasi, analisis, dan evaluasi. Pada indikator inferensi subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis sedang masih belum terpenuhi. Subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis rendah memenuhi indikator interpretasi, analisis, dan evaluasi. Pada indikator inferensi subjek yang memiliki kecemasan matematis rendah  masih belum terpenuhi.
Consciousness and life after death in the evolution of intelligence
Authors: Senarath Dayathilake Kande Lekamalaya
Published: July 2023

To date, no scientific study has found reliable evidence of an afterlife; the mechanism of consciousness is two of the most challenging questions. Here, I show the hypotheses for consciousness and the probability of an afterlife through three simple thought experiments and theoretical evidence. I demonstrate the problems of consciousness, intelligence, and the relationship of the brain with remaining neuroscience, physics, and psychology; and why new physics and psychology are needed to fulfill the research objectives. Furthermore, I discuss how and why I suggest the probability of a continuum of consciousness or life after death. Findings show no alternatives other than the afterlife is challenging. In other words, I did not find different ways to discuss the results of those experiments, yet: more studies are needed to understand the new theory's mechanism precisely. Here, how and why new findings might help to evolve well-being and make a better world.
THE RIGHT OF PRISONERS TO VOTE IN NIGERIA: ANALYZING THE JOURNEY SO FAR
Authors: Olorunfemi Ubose Osoname , Olorunfemi Eguono
Published: July 2023

This article examines the issue of prisoners' right to vote in Nigeria from a socio-legal perspective. Despite the Nigerian Constitution guaranteeing the right to vote for all citizens, prisoners are currently denied this right in Nigeria. This article additionally reviews pertinent provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, international human rights treaties. It also analyzes some selected European Court of Human Rights judgments, and then discusses the legal frameworks that regulate voting rights for prisoners in Nigeria. The article concludes by arguing that while the right to vote is a fundamental right that should not be restricted based solely on a citizen's incarceration status and while the Government should value democracy and consider the right to vote as a tool for rehabilitation, not every prisoner in the Nigerian prison system should be given the opportunity to exercise this right. The article also makes recommendations that would improve Nigerian prisoner's voting rights.
Determinants of Unmet Need of Married Women in Efforts to Reduce Unmet Need in West Sulawesi
Authors: Sukardi Sukardi , Mardioyono Mardioyono , Muslimin Irma , Nurbaya Nurbaya
Published: July 2023

Reducing the number of unplanned pregnancies is one way to improve the standard of family planning programs. Unplanned pregnancies due to an unmet need for family planning are one of the factors contributing to the increase in IMR and MMR rates and an increase in the population. This study aimed to analyze what factors are related to the incidence of unmet need for family planning and strategies to accelerate the decline in unmet need for family planning in West Sulawesi Province using the 2021 Family Data Collection data set. The research method used is quantitative with a cross-sectional design on chi analysis-square and quadrant analysis using the 2021 Family Data Collection data set with a total sample of 185,132 couples of childbearing age in the province of West Sulawesi. The study found that education level, employment status, age, and the number of children born alive to couples of childbearing age were significantly related to the incidence of unmet need in West Sulawesi with a p-Value of 0.000 and two districts which were the top priority in accelerating the reduction of unmet need for family planning are Mamuju and Polewali Mandar Regency according to quadrant analysis. The results of this research can provide recommendations for mapping targets and areas to stakeholders to accelerate the reduction of unmet needs for family planning in West Sulawesi.
The Effect of Childbirth Education in Reducing Anxiety in Facing Childbirth in the Third Trimester Pregnant Women: Scoping Review
Authors: Ritonga Juliana Safitri , Hidayat Asri
Published: July 2023

Mothers unable to fight anxiety and fear, especially third-trimester pregnant women, will experience the release of catecholamine hormones in high concentrations and experience increased labour pain, obstructed labour, and discomfort during labour. The purpose is to analyze the effect of childbirth education in Reducing Anxiety in Facing Labor in Third Trimester Pregnant Women by including relevant sources of evidence from each article. The method in this study uses databases, namely Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and Wiley, published between 2012-2022. The results showed that of the nine articles reviewed, seven reports came from developing countries, namely Indonesia and Iran. Two words came from developed countries, namely Australia and that the existence of childbirth education would significantly reduce the level of maternal anxiety so that the delivery process could run smoothly and childbirth education will reduce the desire of pregnant women to give birth by SC. While previous research stated that the cause of anxiety in facing childbirth is, experience and stress can be influenced by family support, marital status, history of disease, mother's age and level of education.
Update on clinical research for food allergy treatment
Authors: Fowler Joshua , Lieberman Jay
Published: July 2023

The incidence of IgE-mediated food allergy (FA) has continued to increase over the years which places substantial burden on patient health and quality of life. With no cure for this disease, the mainstay of management has been allergen avoidance. However, there have been advancements in FA treatment in recent years with multiple clinical trials utilizing novel and innovative therapeutic strategies. A landmark event came in 2020 with the first drug approval for food allergy with the approval of a product for peanut oral immunotherapy. In addition to oral immunotherapy, different delivery systems of immunotherapy (SLIT, EPIT) are being studied in addition to probiotics, biologic agents - used as monotherapy and as an adjunct, and modified allergens has taken place with the hope to further enhance existing therapeutic options. The hope through these continued developments is for therapies to emerge that will provide a more comprehensive benefit to this patient population.
CardIAP: calcium transients confocal image analysis tool
Authors: Velez Rueda Ana Julia , Gonano Luis Alberto , Smith Agustín García , Parisi Gustavo , Fornasari María Silvina , Sommese Leandro Matías
Published: July 2023

One of the main topics of cardiovascular research is the study of calcium (Ca2+) handling, as even small changes in Ca2+ concentration can alter cell functionality (Bers, Annu Rev Physiol, 2014, 76, 107–127). Ionic calcium (Ca2+) plays the role of a second messenger in eukaryotic cells, associated with cellular functions such as cell cycle regulation, transport, motility, gene expression, and regulation. The use of fluorometric techniques in isolated cells loaded with Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent probes allows quantitative measurement of dynamic events occurring in living, functioning cells. The Cardiomyocytes Images Analyzer Python (CardIAP) application addresses the need to analyze and retrieve information from confocal microscopy images systematically, accurately, and rapidly. Here we present CardIAP, an open-source tool developed entirely in Python, freely available and useable in an interactive web application. In addition, CardIAP can be used as a standalone Python library and freely installed via PIP, making it easy to integrate into biomedical imaging pipelines. The images that can be generated in the study of the heart have the particularity of requiring both spatial and temporal analysis. CardIAP aims to open the field of cardiomyocytes and intact hearts image processing. The improvement in the extraction of information from the images will allow optimizing the usage of resources and animals. With CardIAP, users can run the analysis to both, the complete image, and portions of it in an easy way, and replicate it on a series of images. This analysis provides users with information on the spatial and temporal changes in calcium releases and characterizes them. The web application also allows users to extract calcium dynamics data in downloadable tables, simplifying the calculation of alternation and discordance indices and their classification. CardIAP aims to provide a tool that could assist biomedical researchers in studying the underlying mechanisms of anomalous calcium release phenomena.
Crossover gait in running and measuring foot inversion angle at initial foot strike: a front-view video analysis approach
Authors: Iskandar Muhammad Nur Shahril , Loh Ray Ban Chuan , Ho Mee Yee Mavis , Pan Jing Wen , Kong Pui Wah
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Foot inversion angle at initial foot strike is associated with various running-related injuries. Traditionally, video analysis of foot inversion angle has been accomplished by positioning a camera to record from the back view, but complications arise when a crossover gait obscures the area of measurement. This study aims to investigate the viability of measuring foot inversion angles at initial foot strike of running from the front view as an alternative to using the back view in 2D video analysis.

Methods:Forty-four healthy runners (20 females, 24 males) ran at their self-selected speeds on a treadmill with their gait recorded from front and back camera views. Foot inversion angles at initial foot strike were analyzed using Kinovea. A 2 × 2 (Camera × Foot) ANOVA with repeated measures was performed on the foot inversion angle data. Subsequently, correlation and linear regression were performed to determine the relationship between the back and front-view measurements.

Results:Thirteen runners (29.5%) displayed crossover gait within 18 gait cycles. ANOVA revealed a significant main effect on Camera (p< .001) only, where foot inversion angle was greater from the front camera view. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the front and back camera views (r= 0.388,p< .001). Regression analyses yielded an equation,y= 0.42 + 0.53x, whereyandxwere the foot inversion angle measured from the back and front camera views, respectively.

Discussion:With a linear regression conversion equation, front-view foot inversion angles at initial foot strike can be used to determine rearfoot inversion angles when crossover gait obstructs the back camera view.
Transendothelial electrical resistance measurement by a microfluidic device for functional study of endothelial barriers in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Li Ya , Xu Min , Zhu Zhu , Xu Feng , Chen Bing
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing and remitting disease with a rising incidence globally. Circulating exosomes play great roles in IBD pathogenesis through exosomal cargoes, especially impacting the function of endothelial barriers. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurement is a widely used non-invasive and label-free strategy to monitor endothelial barrier function in vitro. This study established a well-designed microfluidic device to monitor the TEER changes of endothelial cellular barrier on-chip after treated with exosome derived from IBD serum.

Methods: The chip comprised two layers of microfluidic chambers with top layer for the perfusion of medium to maintain the nutrition and pressure during cell culture, and bottom layer for the extracellular matrix mimic using hydrogel, which are separated by a semipermeable membrane that permitted the formation of endothelial cell barrier. Four electrodes independent from the outlets were integrated to the chip for TEER detection. In vivo mouse models mouse models and proteome profiling were performed to finding relevant regulators.

Results: With this platform, significant decrease of TEER was detected, indicating that IBD serum exosome impact the endothelial cellular barrier on-chip. In vivo mouse models, IBD serum exosome treated group showed great higher DAI scores, shorter colons, more severe histological features, and higher levers of S100A8 expression, promoting the disease progress. Proteome profiling showed that TFRC and ANXA5 have great potentials as novel regulators in IBD.

Discussion: This in-house customized microfluidic chip emulates the endothelial barrier microenvironment and enables the TEER monitoring, and can be used to investigate endothelial barrier function in vitro. IBD serum exosome promote the severity of disease.
COVID-19 inactivated and non-replicating viral vector vaccines induce regulatory training phenotype in human monocytes under epigenetic control
Authors: Antunes Mateus da Silva Matias , Sugiyama Fabricia Heloisa Cavicchioli , Gravina Humberto Doriguetto , Castro Ricardo Cardoso , Mercado Francisco Javier Romero , Lima Julia Oliveira de , Fontanari Caroline , Frantz Fabiani Gai
Published: July 2023

Background

Trained immunity is the enhanced innate immune response resulting from exposure to pathogens or vaccines against an unrelated pathogen stimulus. Certain vaccines induce a memory like response in monocytes and NK cells, leading to modulation in cytokine production, metabolic changes, and modifications in histone patterns. Here, we hypothesized that vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 could induce the training of monocytes in addition to stimulating the adaptive immune response.

Methods

Therefore, we aimed to investigate the immunophenotyping, cytokine and metabolic profile of monocytes from individuals who were completely immunized with two doses of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine or non-replicating viral vector vaccine. Subsequently, we investigated the epigenetic mechanisms underlying monocyte immune training. As a model of inflammatorychallenge, to understand if the monocytes were trained by vaccination and how they were trained, cells were stimulated in vitro with the endotoxin LPS, an unrelated stimulus that would provoke the effects of training.

Results

When challenged in vitro, monocytes from vaccinated individuals produced less TNF-α and those who received inactivated vaccine produced less IL-6, whereas vaccination with non-replicating viral vector vaccine induced more IL-10. Inactivated vaccine increased classical monocyte frequency, and both groups showed higher CD163 expression, a hallmark of trained immunity. We observed increased expression of genes involved in glycolysis and reduced IRG1 expression in vaccinated subjects, a gene associated with the tolerance phenotype in monocytes. We observed that both vaccines reduced the chromatin accessibility of genes associated with the inflammatory response, the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine trained monocytes to a regulatory phenotype mediated by histone modifications in the IL6 and IL10 genes, while the non-replicating viral vector COVID-19 vaccine trained monocytes to a regulatory phenotype, mediated by histone modifications in the IL6, IL10, TNF, and CCL2 genes.

Conclusions

Our findings support the recognized importance of adopting vaccination against SARS CoV-2, which has been shown to be effective in enhancing the adaptive immune response against the virus and reducing mortality and morbidity rates. Here, we provide evidence that vaccination also modulates the innate immune response by controlling the detrimental inflammatory response to unrelated pathogen stimulation.
Uncontrolled hypertension is associated with increased risk of graft failure in kidney transplant recipients: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Kim Chang Seong , Oh Tae Ryom , Suh Sang Heon , Choi Hong Sang , Bae Eun Hui , Ma Seong Kwon , Jung Jin Hyung , Kim Bongseong , Han Kyung-Do , Kim Soo Wan
Published: July 2023

Backgroud

Hypertension is highly prevalent in patients with kidney transplantation caused by transplantation-related immunologic or non-immunologic risk factors. However, whether a strict definition of hypertension (≥130/80 mmHg) and subdivided blood pressure (BP) groups are associated with an increased risk of graft failure after kidney transplantation using a nationwide large cohort study are still unknown.

Methods

Using Korean National Health Insurance Service data, we included 14,249 patients who underwent kidney transplantation from 2002 to 2016. Patients were categorized into five BP groups according to the 2021 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes practice guidelines for BP management: normal BP (<120/80 mmHg), elevated BP (120–129/ < 80 mmHg), incident hypertension (≥130/80 mmHg), and controlled or uncontrolled hypertension with anti-hypertensive medications.

Results

The primary outcome was graft failure, which occurred in 1934 (13.6%) participants during the 6-year follow-up. After adjusting for covariates, hypertension was associated with a higher risk of graft failure [Adjusted hazard ratio (AHR), 1.70; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.48–1.96)] than no-hypertension. The AHR for graft failure was the highest in patients with uncontrolled hypertension (AHR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.80–2.52). The risk of graft failure had a linear relationship with systolic and diastolic BP, and pulse pressure.

Conclusions

In this nationwide population-based study, hypertension ≥130/80 mmHg based on the 2021 KDIGO BP guidelines in kidney transplantion recipients, and elevated systolic and diastolic BP, and pulse pressure were associated with the risk of developing graft failure in kidney transplant recipients.
Mechanical properties of mudstone caprock and influencing factors: implications for evaluation of caprock integrity
Authors: Jia Ru , Fu Xiaofei , Jin Yejun , Wu Tong , Wang Sheng , Cheng Huijie
Published: July 2023

Mudstone is the most common cap rock in petroliferous basins. The mechanical properties of mudstone in different areas and buried depths are obviously different, which directly affects the brittleness and ductileness of caprock and its deformation characteristic. This research carried out X ray diffraction (XRD) rock mineral composition analysis, microscopic observation of mineral structural characteristics and rock mechanics triaxial compression tests under different conditions on six groups of mudstone samples from three basins. On this basis, establish numerical model to simulate the fracture deformation of mudstone under geological conditions, and to clarify the influence of different factors on the rock mechanics of mudstone. Compare and analyze the fracture characteristics and stress-strain curves of mudstone samples after the test show that, the confining pressure is the most direct factor affecting the mechanical properties and deformation mechanism of mudstone in the range of oil and gas enrichment depth. Although the formation temperature has a certain influence on the rock deformation, the effect is very limited, and it is difficult to have an essential influence on the rock deformation without the action of confining pressure. The mineral composition of mudstone is also one of the main factors affecting the mechanical deformation of rock. The comparison between the content of main minerals and the mechanical parameters of rock shows that the mechanical properties of rock and the transformation of brittleness and ductileness of mudstone have the most obvious correlation with clay minerals. Numerical simulations show that, pore fluid pressure is an important factor that cannot be ignored in overpressured caprocks. Higher pore fluid pressure can significantly inhibit the transition process of rock brittleness and ductileness, and at the same time affect the fracture mode of mudstone, which is of great significance for the evaluation of caprock integrity.
Identification of biomarkers associated with the invasion of nonfunctional pituitary neuroendocrine tumors based on the immune microenvironment
Authors: Wu Jiangping , Guo Jing , Fang Qiuyue , Liu Yulou , Li Chuzhong , Xie Weiyan , Zhang Yazhuo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The invasive behavior of nonfunctioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PitNEts) affects complete resection and indicates a poor prognosis. Cancer immunotherapy has been experimentally used for the treatment of many tumors, including pituitary tumors. The current study aimed to screen the key immune-related genes in NF-PitNEts with invasion.

Methods

We used two cohorts to explore novel biomarkers in NF-PitNEts. The immune infiltration-associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained based on high/low immune scores, which were calculated through the ESTIMATE algorithm. The abundance of immune cells was predicted using the ImmuCellAI database. WGCNA was used to construct a coexpression network of immune cell-related genes. Random forest analysis was used to select the candidate genes associated with invasion. The expression of key genes was verified in external validation set using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR).

Results

The immune and invasion related DEGs was obtained based on the first dataset of NF-PitNEts (n=112). The immune cell-associated modules in NF-PitNEts were calculate by WGCNA. Random forest analysis was performed on 81 common genes intersected by immune-related genes, invasion-related genes, and module genes. Then, 20 of these genes with the highest RF score were selected to construct the invasion and immune-associated classification model. We found that this model had high prediction accuracy for tumor invasion, which had the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value in the training dataset from the first dataset (n=78), the self-test dataset from the first dataset (n=34), and the independent test dataset (n=73) (AUC=0.732/0.653/0.619). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that 8 out of the 20 genes were enriched in multiple signaling pathways. Subsequently, the 8-gene (BMP6, CIB2, FABP5, HOMER2, MAML3, NIN, PRKG2 and SIDT2) classification model was constructed and showed good efficiency in the first dataset (AUC=0.671). In addition, the expression levels of these 8 genes were verified by qRT‒PCR.

Conclusion

We identified eight key genes associated with invasion and immunity in NF-PitNEts that may play a fundamental role in invasive progression and may provide novel potential immunotherapy targets for NF-PitNEts.
Comprehensive analysis of ferritinophagy-related genes and immune infiltration landscape in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Yu Fenfen , Wang Congyao , Su Yihua , Chen Tingting , Zhu Wenhui , Dong Xia , Ke Wanyi , Cai Leqi , Yang Shasha , Wan Pengxia
Published: July 2023

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is deemed a microangiopathy and neurodegenerative disorder, which is a primary reason of visual impairment in the world. Ferritinophagy is a critical regulator of ferroptosis and has a vital part in the etiopathogenesis of DR. Nevertheless, its molecular mechanism in DR remains to be expounded.

Methods

The GSE146615 dataset was adopted to identify ferritinophagy-related differentially expressed genes (FRDEGs). The interactions and biological functions of the genes were described by means of functional enrichment analysis (FEA). The enriched gene sets were analyzed utilizing gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA). Identification of hub genes was performed utilizing protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis. mRNA–miRNA, mRNA–transcription factors (TF), mRNA–drugs, mRNA–RNA-binding proteins (RBP) interaction networks were constructed. In addition, datasets GSE60436 and GSE94019 were utilized for validation. The diagnostic performance of FRDEGs was assessed by means of receiver-operating characteristic curve monofactor analysis, followed by immune infiltration analysis. Lastly, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was implemented to analyze the validation of genes.

Results

In total, the identification of eight FRDEGs was completed utilizing differential expression analysis. FEA mainly implicated the autophagy of mitochondrion, mitochondrion disassembly, autophagosome assembly, and organization pathways. GSEA and GSVA mainly implicated the interferon alpha response, ultraviolet response up, interferon gamma response, apical junction, pical surface, and allograft rejection pathways. BECN1 and HERC2 displayed high diagnostic accuracies in validation sets. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that several immune cells related to ferritinophagy may be play potential roles in DR. Finally, qRT-PCR was utilized to validate the upregulated expression of BECN1 as well as the downregulated expression of BCAT2 and ATG7 in the DR model.

Conclusion

BECN1, HERC2, ATG7, and BCAT2 act as potential biomarkers for DR and might regulate ferritinophagy and the immune microenvironment to influence its development and progression. This research can provide new insights into pathogenesis of DR related to ferritinophagy.
Thyroid hormones modifications among COVID-19 patients undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Croce Laura , Zampogna Elisabetta , Coperchini Francesca , Costa Pietro , Pignatti Patrizia , Visca Dina , Spanevello Antonio , Rotondi Mario
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Patients with severe COVID-19 often experience long-lasting disabilities that can improve after pulmonary rehabilitation. Moreover patients with severe COVID-19 display thyroid function alterations due to a non-thyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS). The aim of our study was to evaluate thyroid function parameters among patients hospitalized for COVID-19 who were eligible or not to respiratory rehabilitation and their modifications during follow-up.

Materials and methods

Post-COVID-19 patients referred to a Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit were evaluated. Outpatients, not candidate for rehabilitation, were enrolled as Control group. Patients who had completed a 4-week-rehabilitation program were enrolled as Rehabilitation Group. All patients were evaluated at T0 (4 weeks after the discharge home in Control Group and after completion of rehabilitation in Rehabilitation Group) and at T1 (3 months after T0).

Results

The final study group included 39 patients (20 in the Rehabilitation group and 19 in the Control group). Patients in the Rehabilitation Group had more frequently received invasive or non-invasive ventilation, had a longer length-of-stay in referring hospitals, had a higher number of comorbidities and displayed a worse performance at 6-minute-walking-test (6MWT) and Short-Physical-Performance-Battery-test (SPPB). FT3 values were lower at T0 in the Rehabilitation Group, while TSH and FT4 values were similar in the two groups. While no significant modifications in thyroid-function-parameters were observed in the Control Group, a significant increase in FT3 value was observed in the Rehabilitation Group at T1. Participants of both groups had improved the results of 6MWT at T1, while SPPB values improved only in the Rehabilitation Group.

Conclusions

COVID-19 patients after pulmonary rehabilitation experience an increase in FT3 values during follow-up, paralleled with an amelioration of functional capabilities.
Low catestatin as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease – assessment in patients with adrenal incidentalomas
Authors: Zalewska Ewa , Kmieć Piotr , Sobolewski Jakub , Koprowski Andrzej , Sworczak Krzysztof
Published: July 2023

Background

Catestatin (Cts) is a peptide derived from proteolytic cleavage of chromogranin A, which exhibits cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Cts has been proposed as a potential biomarker for cardiovascular (CV) disease.

Objectives

examining Cts in patients with incidentally discovered adrenocortical adenomas (AI), and its associations with CV risk factors and blood pressure (BP).

Materials and methods

In this cross-sectional study, 64 AI patients without overt CV disease other than primary hypertension were recruited along with 24 age-, sex-, and body-mass-index (BMI)-matched controls with normal adrenal morphology. Laboratory, 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring, echocardiography, and common carotid artery sonography examinations were performed.

Results

Unadjusted Cts was higher in AI patients (median 6.5, interquartile range: 4.9-37 ng/ml) versus controls (4.5 (3.5 – 28)), p=0.048, however, the difference was insignificant after adjusting for confounding variables. Cts was lower in subjects with metabolic syndrome than in those without it (5.2 (3.9- 6.9) vs. 25.7 (5.8-115) ng/ml, p<0.01), and in men compared to women (4.9 (4-7.4) ng/ml vs. 7 (4.8-100), p=0.015). AI patients in the lower half of Cts levels compared to those in the upper had a higher prevalence of hypertension (OR 0.15, 95% CI: 0.041-0.5, p<0.001) and metabolic syndrome (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.041-0.5, p<0.001). In AI patients Cts correlated positively with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Spearman’s r=0.31), negatively with BMI (r=-0.31), and 10-year atherosclerotic CV disease risk (r=-0.42).

Conclusions

Our data indicate associations between CV risk factors and Cts. More clinical research is needed to apply serum Cts as a biomarker.
Effects of dietary polyphenol curcumin supplementation on metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress indices in patients with metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Qiu Linjie , Gao Chunyang , Wang Haonan , Ren Yan , Li Jixin , Li Meijie , Du Xinlei , Li Wenjie , Zhang Jin
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis for assessing the effectiveness and safety of dietary polyphenol curcumin supplement on metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress indices in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods

A comprehensive search for clinical trials was conducted in the following scientific databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, and China Biological Medicine. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of curcumin supplement for MetS were identified. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed using inverse variance, and efficacy was expressed as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). The metabolic syndrome markers that were evaluated in the present study included waist circumference (WC), fasting blood sugar (FBS), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), ultrasensitive c-reactive protein (hsCRP), and malondialdehyde (MDA). By employing the Cochrane tool, RCTs were assessed for bias risk.

Results

A total of 785 participants from 13 RCTs were included, with intervention durations ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. Compared with the control group, the curcumin group had positive effects on WC (MD = -2.16, 95% CI: -3.78 to -0.54, p = 0.009, seven studies), FBS (MD = -8.6, 95% CI: -15.45 to -1.75, p = 0.01, nine studies), DBP (MD = -2.8, 95% CI: -4.53 to - 1.06, p = 0.002, five studies), HDL-C (MD = 4.98, 95% CI: 2.58 to 7.38, p < 0.0001, eight studies), TNF-a (MD = -12.97, 95% CI: -18.37 to -7.57, p < 0.00001, two studies), CRP (MD = - 1.24, 95% CI: -1.71 to -0.77, p < 0.00001, two studies), and MDA (MD = -2.35, 95% CI: -4.47 to -0.24, p = 0.03, three studies). These improvements were statistically significant. Meanwhile, there was no significant improvement in SBP (MD = -4.82, 95% CI: -9.98 to 0.35, p = 0.07, six studies), TG (MD = 1.28, 95% CI: -3.75 to 6.30, p = 0.62, eight studies), IL-6 (MD = -1.5, 95% CI: -3.97 to 0.97, p = 0.23, two studies), or hsCRP (MD = -1.10, 95% CI: -4.35 to 2.16, p < 0.51, two studies). FBS, SBP, HDL-C, IL-6, CRP, hsCRP, and MDA had a relatively high heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Curcumin exhibited promising potential in enhancing markers associated with metabolic syndrome, including inflammation. However, additional studies are required to confirm such findings since the included evidence is limited and has a relatively high heterogeneity.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42022362553.
Higher levels of serum α-Klotho are longitudinally associated with less central obesity in girls experiencing weight gain
Authors: Carreras-Badosa Gemma , Puerto-Carranza Elsa , Mas-Parés Berta , Gómez-Vilarrubla Ariadna , Gómez-Herrera Bernat , Díaz-Roldán Ferran , Riera-Pérez Elena , de Zegher Francis , Ibañez Lourdes , Bassols Judit , López-Bermejo Abel
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Klotho is an anti-aging protein that reduces adiposity and increases caloric expenditure, among others. Although associations between secreted α-Klotho levels and obesity have been described, its relationship with central obesity and visceral fat accumulation during childhood is poorly understood. Our objective was to study the longitudinal associations between serum α-Klotho concentrations and obesity-related parameters in apparently healthy children.

Subjects and methods

We studied a cohort of 208 apparently healthy school-age children (107 girls and 101 boys) assessed at baseline (mean age 8.5 ± 1.8 years) and at follow-up 4 years later. Serum α-Klotho concentrations were measured at baseline in all subjects. Obesity-related parameters, such as BMI, waist circumference, body fat, visceral fat, triglyceride levels, HOMA-IR index, and C-reactive protein were studied. Boys and girls were classified into 3 groups according to weight change between baseline and follow-up visits: weight loss, stable weight, or weight gain (based on a BMI-SDS change cut-off > 0.35 SD).

Results

In girls (N=107), but not in boys, we observed negative associations of serum α-Klotho protein with BMI, waist circumference, body fat, visceral fat, HOMA IR index, and C-reactive protein at baseline and also at follow-up. The associations of α-Klotho and obesity-related parameters were more evident in girls who exhibited weight gain. In such girls, multivariate regression analyses (adjusting for age, puberty and baseline weight/height ratio) showed that α-Klotho protein was negatively associated with follow-up BMI, waist circumference, and visceral fat (p = 0.003 to 0.028). For each 1 SD-increase in baseline α-Klotho, follow-up waist circumference decreased by 4.15 cm and visceral fat by 1.38 mm.

Conclusions

In school-age girls, serum α-Klotho concentrations are longitudinally related to a more favorable metabolic profile. In girls experiencing weight gain, α-Klotho may prove to be a protective factor against the accumulation of visceral fat.
Renewable energy, GDP and CO2 emissions in high-globalized countries
Authors: Mirziyoyeva Ziroat , Salahodjaev Raufhon
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Policymakers devote significant efforts to decrease CO2 emissions, as climate change has Q7 numerous adverse impacts on society. While the global level of CO2 emissions has been gradually rising since the 1990s, the highest growth was observed in low- and middle-income economies. This study differs from nascent research as it fills the gap by exploring the GDP-energy-CO2 emissions nexus for the top 50 highly globalized countries under analysis. Our study explores the multidimensional relationship between economic growth, renewable energy, globalization, and climate change, using CO2 emissions as a proxy for air pollution, and focusing on the most globalized countries.

Methods: In this study, we rely on dynamic panel estimators such as the two-step system GMM estimator. System GMM estimator is recommended to use with the panel data when 1) the correlation between a dependent variable and its lag is above 0.8; and 2) the number of countries (i.e., 50 countries) exceeds the time frame (i.e., 19 years). As our study design fits these conditions, we use extension of a two-step system GMM estimator which restricts the expansion of instruments. Moreover, a two-step system GMM estimator is especially efficient as it controls for heteroskedasticity.

Results: We find that renewable energy and globalization decrease CO2 emissions. If causal, a 1 percentage point increase in the share of renewable energy in total energy consumption leads to a 0.26% decrease in per capita CO2 emissions. Similarly, we find that a larger representation of women in national parliament contributes to the reduction in CO2 emissions. GDP per capita has an inverted U-shaped relationship with CO2 emissions and the turning point is approximately 67,200 international dollars adjusted for PPP.

Discussion: Our results suggest that renewable energy significantly contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions while GDP per capita has an inverted U-shaped link with CO2 emissions. Thus, we confirm the presence of the EKC hypothesis for highly-globalized countries. Consequently, our study offers several policy implications. Firstly, it is important for developing countries to increase the share of energy consumed from renewable energy sources. This will have a positive effect not only on air quality, but also on economic growth. Thus, it is essential to increase investment in the renewable energy sector and create conditions and benefits for the rapid adoption of renewable technologies by the private sector and households. Secondly, it is crucial to increase the quality of investment climate. Developing countries can significantly gain from globalization-driven FDI as this can lead to technology transfer, especially in the energy sector. Thirdly, our results suggest that improving female empowerment can significantly reduce the vulnerability to climate change. This can be achieved by increasing women’s human capital and investing in women-led organizations and communities.