bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pelatihan Pembuatan Pupuk Kompos Dari Daun Kering
Authors: Argarini Dian Fitri , Rochsun Rochsun , Sunuyeko Nurcholis , Litik Bernadeti Sartika Yasni
Published: October 2023

The Potential Based Community Service (PMBP) activity aims to provide education to the community in Ciwulan RW 12, Purwantoro Village, Kec. Blimbing Malang City regarding how to make compost from dry leaf waste. The benefit of making compost from dry leaves is to help local residents in making organic fertilizer from nature and optimizing the use of dry leaf waste so that the dry leaves can have high use value and are useful as compost. Processing dry leaf waste into organic fertilizer can increase public knowledge and insight about making compost and can reduce dependence on the use of inorganic fertilizers that contain many compounds that are less environmentally friendly. This training was attended by the Ciwulan 12 community. The method used is in the form of hands-on practice and simulation. The result of this training is that the people of Purwantoro Village can make compost using natural ingredients and increase the knowledge and insight of the community in Ciwulan RW 12 Kel. Purwantoro Kec. Blimbing City of Malang
Comparison of feeding niches between Arctic and northward-moving sub-Arctic marine mammals in Greenland
Authors: Land-Miller H , Roos AM , Simon M , Dietz R , Sonne C , Pedro S , Rosing-Asvid A , Rigét FF , McKinney MA
Published: October 2023

The climate change-induced northward movement of sub-Arctic marine mammals increases their range overlap and interactions with native Arctic species. We compared feeding patterns of 11 marine mammal species (4 Arctic and 7 sub-Arctic) in Greenland using stable isotope ratios and fatty acid signatures, and also assessed the effects of lipid extraction on stable isotope ratios. Lipid extraction showed limited increases in δ13C, intermediate effects on δ15N, and significant depletion of δ34S in muscle of some marine mammals. Arctic and sub-Arctic species differed in stable isotope ratios, indicating some use of separate food resources, while likely also reflecting baseline isotopic variation. Proportions of some of the most abundant fatty acids (20:1n9, 22:1n11, 20:5n3, 22:6n3) varied between Arctic and sub-Arctic species, indicating that sub-Arctic species rely mostly on a pelagic food web, while Arctic species exploit an ice-associated and benthic food web, although the sub-Arctic harp and hooded seals and Arctic narwhal showed opposite patterns. Sub-Arctic species had the largest niche breadths, implying diet flexibility and potential to adapt to further changes. Overall patterns in dietary tracers demonstrate separation of feeding niches between most Arctic and sub-Arctic marine mammals, but potential niche overlap and shared food resources for some species. Sub-Arctic seal species overlap the feeding niches of native Arctic species the most of all range-shifters, and of Arctic species, narwhal appear to be the most vulnerable to niche overlap and potential food competition with northward-shifting species.
TECHNOLOGY IN DIGITAL MARKETING
Authors: Upasani Samiksha , Narayanrao Naik Kr. Vasantrao , Prasarak Sanstha’s Shikshan ,   Savitribai Phule Pune University, Bankar Sayali ,   Savitribai Phule Pune University
Published: October 2023

This paper focuses on understanding new developments that have impacted modern day marketing. This paper also discusses technological concepts that changed the concept of marketing. When we talk about marketing and the role of technology in it, we understand that new marketing ideas have transformed the face of 21st century marketing strategies. Now marketing is heavily dependent on technology, the emergence of a new marketing sector also known as digital marketing. Digital marketing is the use of electronic media by advertisers to advertise products or services in the market. The main purpose of digital marketing is to attract customers and allow them to interact with the product through digital media devices such as smartphones and computers
Corporate Accountability to Local Communities for Investment-Related Harms: The Elusive Promise of Balanced Investment Treaties
Authors: Nyinevi Christopher Yaw
Published: October 2023

By establishing an investment project or undertaking abroad, a multinational corporation does not only create a relationship between itself and the host state, but also with its local communities, which are often adversely impacted by the conduct or business operations of the investor. Yet the international investment law system has been lopsided. It creates various substantive and procedural protections for investors that they may enforce against the host state in international arbitration. But generally neither the host state nor its local communities adversely impacted by the conduct or business operations of an investor have similar rights. This article examines balanced investment treaties, one of the measures states have recently begun to adopt to remedy the unequal investment law regime. It concludes that, while this new generation of treaties may level the playing field between investors and host states, they do not go far enough to effectively address the peculiar challenges of local communities that suffer investment-related harms.
Aloysius V. Diamond Bank Plc: Opening a New Vista on Security of Employment in Nigeria through the Application of International Labour Organisation Conventions
Authors: Eyongndi David Tarh-Akong , Imosemi Adekunbi
Published: October 2023

At common law, the employer is entitled to terminate the employment of an employee, for any reason or no reason at all. At present, the level of unemployment in Nigeria is gargantuan, coupled with a high rate of employment insecurity. In 2010 the status and stature of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) were enhanced by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Third Alteration) Act, 2010, which vests the NICN with exclusive original civil jurisdiction over labour and employment matters, powers it to apply international best practices (IBP) and international labour standards (ILS) as contained in section 254C(1)(f) and (h) thereof. In 2015 the NICN, according to this section, held that an employer, in master–servant employment, following IBPs and ILSs, cannot terminate the employment of an employee save for good and justifiable reasons. This judgment has attracted various criticisms owing to its iconoclastic nature. This article, through the doctrinal method, examines the validity of this judgment vis-à-vis section 12 of the 1999 CFRN and subsisting appellate courts judgments. It argues that the judgment is not only valid but a welcome development and has opened a new vista on security of employment in Nigeria and has brought the law into conformity with international best practices and standards. Going forward, the article argues for the affirming of the decision by the Court of Appeal as the apex court on appeals from the NICN and for wide publicity by trade unions and workers groups for its exploitation by their members.
The Constitutionality Conundrum on Virtual Court Sittings in the Covid-19 Period in Nigeria
Authors: Anozie Miriam Chinyere , Wingate Emmanuel Onyedi
Published: October 2023

In May 2020 a Nigerian High Court sentenced Olalekan Hameed to death via Zoom. Amid the controversy, Rhodes-Vivour JSC, striking out Attorney General of Lagos State v Attorney General of the Federation, instituted to clarify the constitutionality of virtual court sittings, pronounced: ‘[v]irtual sitting as of today are not unconstitutional’. Analysing sections 36(3) and (4) of Nigeria's Constitution alongside judicial authorities on the public hearing imperative, this article argues that the issue is not so much whether virtual sittings are unconstitutional as whether enough has been done to ensure public access to the proceedings. This view is fortified by the elaborate procedure recommended in the Guidelines for Court Sittings and Related Matters in the COVID-19 Period 2020. To ensure access to justice is not truncated, the article recommends: (1) the Chief Justice of Nigeria's (CJN) inclusion of virtual sitting rules in the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, as restrictions during emergency periods affect fundamental rights; and (2) that all other heads of courts embed the virtual sitting rules in their court rules. This, it is concluded, would prevent haphazard adoption of virtual sittings for adjudication, which could invalidate such sittings for failing to meet the proceedings in public requirement of the Constitution.
Counter-current Travel Memoirs and New Directions in Palestine Studies: Salman Abu Sitta's Mapping my Return and Miko Peled'S The General'S Son
Authors: Karam Khaled , Khalifa Eman
Published: October 2023

This interdisciplinary article involves the intertwining of multiple theoretical areas that explore an anti-colonial reading of the fallacies of the Zionist narrative. The article also initiates new directions in postcolonial studies, while focusing on two counter-current travel memoirs about Palestine, by Salman Abu Sitta and Miko Peled. The article shows how the memoirists’ thinking can challenge Zionist settler-colonialism in Palestine. These counter-current travel memoirs lay the groundwork for new perspectives in post-colonial and memory studies. The article also reads the two counter-current memoirs by allowing interactions between human agents and the cognitive ecosystem to reproduce cognitive cartographies of Palestine.
Evaluation of biomechanical properties and biocompatibility: are partially absorbable cords eligible for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?
Authors: Xu Fei , Li Yanlin , Yu Yang , Wang Guoliang , Cai Guofeng
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Independent augmentation technology based on reinforcing devices has been reported to signifi-cantly reduce the elongation behavior of graft and improve knee stability after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Using biodegradable devices could reduce the risk of severe inflammatory reactions due to particle accumulation from foreign bodies. Given the limitations of the mechanical properties of biodegradable materials, partially biodegradable composite devices may offer a compromise strategy.

Methods: Three types of partially absorbable core-sheath sutures, including low-absorbable cord (LA-C), medium-absorbable cord (MA-C) and high-absorbable cord (HA-C), were braided using unabsorbable ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) yarn and absorbable polydioxanone (PDO) monofil-ament bundle based on the desired configuration. The feasibility of these partially absorbable cords were verified by biomechanical testing, material degradation testing, and cell experiments, all performed in vitro.

Results: Reinforcement of an 8 mm graft with the cords decreased dynamic elongation by 24%–76%, was positively related to dynamic stiffness, and increased the failure load by 44%–105%, during which LA-C showed maximum enhancement. Human ligament-derived fibroblasts showed good proliferation and vitality on each cord over 2 weeks and aligned themselves in the direction of the fibers, especially the UHMWPE portion.

Discussion: This study supports the potential of partially degradable UHMWPE/PDO cords, particularly LA-C, for graft protection. Nervertheless, a higher proportion of biodegradable material results in lower stiffness, which may impair the protective and lead to mechanical instability during degradation.
Human organoids are superior to cell culture models for intestinal barrier research
Authors: Kollmann Catherine , Buerkert Hannah , Meir Michael , Richter Konstantin , Kretzschmar Kai , Flemming Sven , Kelm Matthias , Germer Christoph-Thomas , Otto Christoph , Burkard Natalie , Schlegel Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Loss of intestinal epithelial barrier function is a hallmark in digestive tract inflammation. The detailed mechanisms remain unclear due to the lack of suitable cell-based models in barrier research. Here we performed a detailed functional characterization of human intestinal organoid cultures under different conditions with the aim to suggest an optimized ex-vivo model to further analyse inflammation-induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction. Differentiated Caco2 cells as a traditional model for intestinal epithelial barrier research displayed mature barrier functions which were reduced after challenge with cytomix (TNFα, IFN-γ, IL-1ß) to mimic inflammatory conditions. Human intestinal organoids grown in culture medium were highly proliferative, displayed high levels of LGR5 with overall low rates of intercellular adhesion and immature barrier function resembling conditions usually found in intestinal crypts. WNT-depletion resulted in the differentiation of intestinal organoids with reduced LGR5 levels and upregulation of markers representing the presence of all cell types present along the crypt-villus axis. This was paralleled by barrier maturation with junctional proteins regularly distributed at the cell borders. Application of cytomix in immature human intestinal organoid cultures resulted in reduced barrier function that was accompanied with cell fragmentation, cell death and overall loss of junctional proteins, demonstrating a high susceptibility of the organoid culture to inflammatory stimuli. In differentiated organoid cultures, cytomix induced a hierarchical sequence of changes beginning with loss of cell adhesion, redistribution of junctional proteins from the cell border, protein degradation which was accompanied by loss of epithelial barrier function. Cell viability was observed to decrease with time but was preserved when initial barrier changes were evident. In summary, differentiated intestinal organoid cultures represent an optimized human ex-vivo model which allows a comprehensive reflection to the situation observed in patients with intestinal inflammation. Our data suggest a hierarchical sequence of inflammation-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction starting with loss of intercellular adhesion, followed by redistribution and loss of junctional proteins resulting in reduced barrier function with consecutive epithelial death.
Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome and associated cytokines in scleroderma associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Woo Samuel , Gandhi Shifa , Ghincea Alexander , Saber Tina , Lee Chris J. , Ryu Changwan
Published: October 2023

SSc-ILD (scleroderma associated interstitial lung disease) is a complex rheumatic disease characterized in part by immune dysregulation leading to the progressive fibrotic replacement of normal lung architecture. Because improved treatment options are sorely needed, additional study of the fibroproliferative mechanisms mediating this disease has the potential to accelerate development of novel therapies. The contribution of innate immunity is an emerging area of investigation in SSc-ILD as recent work has demonstrated the mechanistic and clinical significance of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated cytokines of TNFα (tumor necrosis factor alpha), IL-1β (interleukin-1 beta), and IL-18 in this disease. In this review, we will highlight novel pathophysiologic insights afforded by these studies and the potential of leveraging this complex biology for clinical benefit.
The representation of public opinion in reporting poll results on environment issues
Authors: Nagai Kentaro
Published: October 2023

This study examines how Japanese newspapers reporting the results of public opinion polls represent a unified picture of public opinion on environmental issues. Focusing on public opinion poll coverage, we argue that certain results are emphasized to the exclusion of others. To this end, this study analyzes articles and headlines of public opinion poll results on environmental issues published by three Japanese newspapers, the Asahi newspaper, the Yomiuri newspaper, and the Mainichi newspaper, from 1988 to 2010. In total, we located 64 articles that contain 179 headlines and subheadings. Findings suggest that the news coverage most often emphasized people's fears and concerns about environmental issues, followed by individuals' willingness to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors and practices, such as energy conservation and recycling. Overall, the headlines tend to give the impression that many respondents support this view. However, some media outlets that follow this trend selectively emphasize only one aspect of the poll results in their headlines without pointing out the existence of a conflict. They interpret poll results using second person or collective nouns to indicate the distribution of opinions. They then imply an overarching, unified public opinion that indicates a certain direction. This paper concludes that media representations of public opinion based on the results of Japanese public opinion polls on environmental issues legitimize existing political and economic structures and attribute responsibility for environmental problems to individuals.
Case report: Catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation in a patient with heart of stone
Authors: Deng Yingjian , Li Guiyang , Liu Jianghai , Wan Xingcai , Li Linlin , Lv Jialan , Li Qiang , Zhou Faguang , Chang Dong
Published: October 2023

Myocardial calcification is a rare condition, with only a few reports in the literature. For the first time, we report a case of diffuse myocardial calcification who underwent successful catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). In this case, catheter ablation was recommended due to repeated hospitalization for palpitation and heart failure, but preoperative computed tomography showed massive myocardial calcification. Electroanatomic mapping of the atrium was performed with a Pentaray catheter before ablation, which showed areas of low voltage in the calcified region. As the persistent AF was terminated after circumferential pulmonary vein isolation and posterior wall isolation, and no further ablation was performed. The patient recovered well, with no recurrence of palpitation or heart failure during the one-year follow-up.
Can the development of digital construction reduce enterprise carbon emission intensity? New evidence from Chinese construction enterprises
Authors: Yang Xiaozhuang , Lei Gaowei , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: October 2023

Introduction

With the rapid development of digital technology and its deep integration with the engineering and construction field, digital construction has become an effective way for low-carbon transformation in the construction industry. However, there is a gap of empirical research between digital construction and carbon emissions.

Methods

This paper empirically investigates the impact of digital construction level on carbon emission intensity and the mechanism of action by using the two-way fixed effects model and mechanism testing based on the panel data of 52 Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies in China’s construction industry from 2015 to 2021.

Results

The findings indicate that the improvement of digital construction level can significantly decrease the carbon emission intensity of construction enterprises, and the conclusions still hold after robustness tests and discussions on endogeneity issues such as replacing core explanatory variables, replacing models, using instrumental variables method, system GMM model and difference in differences model. According to a mechanism analysis, digital construction can curb carbon emission intensity by enhancing the R&D innovation capacity and total factor productivity of enterprises. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analysis shows that the improvement of digital construction level in state-owned enterprises as well as civil engineering construction enterprises can better contribute to reducing carbon emission intensity.

Discussion

This paper will provide a reference for the synergistic optimization of digital construction development and carbon emissions reduction in construction enterprises. The research conclusions are going to promote the digital transformation of the construction industry to accelerate the achievement of the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals.
Immune-related signature of periodontitis and Alzheimer’s disease linkage
Authors: Jin Jieqi , Guang Mengkai , Li Simin , Liu Yong , Zhang Liwei , Zhang Bo , Cheng Menglin , Schmalz Gerhard , Huang Xiaofeng
Published: October 2023

Background: Periodontits (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are both associated with ageing and clinical studies increasingly evidence their association. However, specific mechanisms underlying this association remain undeciphered, and immune-related processes are purported to play a signifcant role. The accrual of publicly available transcriptomic datasets permits secondary analysis and the application of data-mining and bioinformatic tools for biological discovery.

Aim: The present study aimed to leverage publicly available transcriptomic datasets and databases, and apply a series of bioinformatic analysis to identify a robust signature of immune-related signature of PD and AD linkage.

Methods: We downloaded gene-expresssion data pertaining PD and AD and identified crosstalk genes. We constructed a protein-protein network analysis, applied immune cell enrichment analysis, and predicted crosstalk immune-related genes and infiltrating immune cells. Next, we applied consisent cluster analysis and performed immune cell bias analysis, followed by LASSO regression to select biomarker immune-related genes.

Results: The results showed a 3 gene set comprising of DUSP14, F13A1 and SELE as a robust immune-related signature. Macrophages M2 and NKT, B-cells, CD4+ memory T-cells and CD8+ naive T-cells emerged as key immune cells linking PD with AD.

Conclusion: Candidate immune-related biomarker genes and immune cells central to the assocation of PD with AD were identified, and merit investigation in experimental and clinical research.
Characteristics and factors influencing the volume of breastmilk donated by women to the first human milk bank in Vietnam
Authors: Tran Hoang Thi , Nguyen Tuan Thanh , Nguyen Oanh Thi Xuan , Barnett Debbie , Weaver Gillian , Mathisen Roger
Published: October 2023

Background

Donor human milk (DHM) is essential to the operation of human milk banks (HMB). This study examined characteristics and factors associated with higher volumes of DHM donation at the first HMB in Vietnam.

Method

Data from an online HMB monitoring system collected between February 2017 and July 2022 included demographic characteristics, child information, the timing of donation, and the volume of DHM. Higher volume is defined as equal to or greater than the median DHM volume per donor of 14.4 liters (L). Potential contributors to higher DHM volume were examined using the chi-square test in univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

During the 5.5-year operation, this HMB recruited 517 donors with an average age of 28.6 years. Approximately 60.9% of donors had a college or higher degree and 97.3% gave birth in Da Nang city. Of these donors, the prevalence of cesarean birth was 48.2%, preterm births was 40.2%, and 27.9% had babies with a birth weight of less than 1,500 g. There was a similar proportion of donors between the hospital (48.2%) and community (51.8%). On average, hospital donors started their donations 15 days after birth when their newborns were 33.9 weeks corrected age compared to 63 days and 47.7 weeks among community-based donors. The overall median volume of DHM per donor was 14.4 L over a period of 46 days. The amount and duration were higher in community-based donors (17.5 L in 72 days, 300 ml/day) than those in the hospital (8.4 L in 30 days, 258 ml/day). More than 37% of donors contacted the HMB themselves; the remainder were introduced by health professionals. Factors associated with higher volumes of DHM included higher education (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.09, 2.87), having a full-term newborn (OR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.46, 4.13), and community-based donors (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.22, 3.78).

Conclusions

Mothers with higher education and from the community donate more breastmilk over a longer duration than those with lower education and from the hospital. Breastfeeding protection, promotion, and support should be offered to all mothers with specialized breastfeeding support for mothers of preterm and sick infants. This will ensure mothers have sufficient breastmilk for their newborns and potentially surplus breastmilk for donation.
Magnitude of bycatch of Hippocampus patagonicus, an endangered species, in trawl fisheries in Southeast and South Brazil
Authors: Silveira Rosana Beatriz , Vidal Marcelo Derzi , Silva José Rodrigo Santos
Published: October 2023

One of the biggest threats to the world’s fish stocks is trawling with indiscriminate capturing of non-target organisms, typically referred to as bycatch. Some species of seahorses are globally threatened and are often targets caught as bycatch. The aim of this work is to describe the magnitude of bycatch of the Patagonian seahorse Hippocampus patagonicus (Sygnathidae) in trawling fisheries in the Southeast and South Brazil. Between 2016 and 2018 we monitored the catch of five trawling vessels off the coast of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. A total of 2,041 individuals of H. patagonicus were captured, 1,183 males and 858 females. They were evaluated as for injuries suffered during dragging. The average rate of body damage was 33%. Based on the individuals captured and the analysis of on-board maps, an average CPUE of 3.36 with a standard deviation of 5.95/ind./day/vessel was estimated for the study area, extrapolating an incidental removal of 2,282,515 individuals per year, or 9,427 metric tons of seahorses, along the South and Southeast Brazil, where 3700 trawlers operate, an area recognized as the geographic distribution of H. patagonicus in Brazil
Effects of an experimental terrestrial runoff on the components of the plankton food web in a Mediterranean coastal lagoon
Authors: Courboulès Justine , Vidussi Francesca , Soulié Tanguy , Nikiforakis Eftihis , Heydon Marie , Mas Sébastien , Joux Fabien , Mostajir Behzad
Published: October 2023

The Mediterranean region is undergoing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events, resulting in terrestrial runoffs that can affect aquatic environments in coastal regions. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of terrestrial runoff on natural coastal planktonic assemblages. For this purpose, an in situ mesocosm experiment was conducted in May 2021 in the Mediterranean Thau Lagoon. A terrestrial runoff event was simulated in duplicate mesocosms by adding natural forest soil that was left to maturate naturally for two weeks in river water. After the addition of maturated soil, the abundance and diversity within the planktonic food web, from viruses to metazooplankton, were monitored for 18 days. The addition of maturated soil to the terrestrial runoff treatment greatly depressed the light availability in the mesocosms and potentially enhanced flocculation and sedimentation in the mesocosms, resulting in an immediate negative effect on phytoplankton, decreasing the chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration by 70% for 12 days. Afterward, remineralized nutrient in the terrestrial runoff treatment induced a subsequent positive effect on phytoplankton, which resulted in a diatom bloom and an increase in picophytoplankton and cyanobacteria abundance toward the end of the experiment. Overall, the Chl-a concentration was 30% lower in the terrestrial runoff treatment over the 18 days of experiment, whereas bacteria were 15% more abundant than in the control. This suggests that over the course of the experiment, the addition of maturated soil favoured bacteria instead of phytoplankton at the base of the planktonic food web. The addition of the maturated soil was detrimental for all protozooplankton groups and mixotrophic dinoflagellates, but seemed to favour metazooplankton, notably mollusk larvae, copepod nauplii, and rotifers. This implies that in the terrestrial runoff treatment, the preferential pathway for biomass transfer was through the direct consumption of bacteria and/or phytoplankton by metazooplankton. Therefore, in Thau Lagoon, after a terrestrial runoff, the transfer of biomass within the planktonic food web would potentially be more efficient by promoting direct transfer from the base to the top of the food web, subsiding intermediate trophic levels such as protozooplankton.
Prehabilitation: a narrative review focused on exercise therapy for the prevention of postoperative pulmonary complications following lung resection
Authors: Bingül Emre Sertaç , Şentürk Nüzhet Mert , Kaynar Ata Murat
Published: October 2023

Extensive preventive strategies in the perioperative period are popular worldwide. Novel “prehabilitation” approaches are being defined for every individual surgical discipline. With intention to reduce perioperative morbidity, “prehabilitation” was developed to increase “physical wellness” considering exercise capacity, nutritional status, and psychological support. Thus, prehabilitation could be well-suited for patients undergoing lung cancer surgery. Theoretically, improving physical condition may increase the chances of having a better post-operative course, especially among frail patients. In this review, we describe the concept of prehabilitation with possible benefits, its role in the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols, and its potential for the future.
FINCA – a conceptual framework to improve interprofessional collaboration in health education and care
Authors: Witti Matthias J. , Zottmann Jan M. , Wershofen Birgit , Thistlethwaite Jill E. , Fischer Frank , Fischer Martin R.
Published: October 2023

The health care system in Germany and in many other countries is facing fundamental challenges due to demographic change, which require new integrated care concepts and a revision of the collaboration between health care professions in everyday clinical practice. Internationally, several competency framework models have been proposed, but a framework that explicitly conceptualizes collaborative activities to improve interprofessional problem-solving competency in health care is still missing. Such a framework should define contextual, person-related, process-related, and outcome-related variables relevant to interprofessional problem solving in health care. Against this background, we present a conceptual framework to improve interprofessional collaboration in health education and care (FINCA) developed with scientific consideration of empirical data and various theoretical references. FINCA reflects an interprofessional learning and interaction process involving two persons from different health care professions and with different individual learning prerequisites. These two initially identify a problem that is likely to require interprofessional collaboration at some point. FINCA acknowledges the context of interprofessional learning, teaching, and working as well as its action-modifying context factors. We follow the reasoning that individual learning prerequisites interact with the teaching context during learning activities. At the heart of FINCA are observable collaborative activities (information sharing and grounding; negotiating; regulating; executing interprofessional activities; maintaining communication) that can be used to assess individuals’ cognitive and social skills. Eventually, the framework envisages an assessment of the outcomes of interprofessional education and collaboration. The proposed conceptual framework provides the basis for analysis and empirical testing of the components and variables it describes and their interactions across studies, educational interventions, and action-modifying contexts. FINCA further provides the basis for fostering the teaching and learning of interprofessional problem-solving skills in various health care settings. It can support faculty and curriculum developers to systematize the implementation and improvement of interprofessional teaching and learning opportunities. From a practical perspective, FINCA can help to better align curricula for different health professions in the future. In principle, we also see potential for transferability of the framework to other areas where different professions collaborate.
Early life stress induces irritable bowel syndrome from childhood to adulthood in mice
Authors: Tao Enfu , Wu Yuhao , Hu Chenmin , Zhu Zhenya , Ye Diya , Long Gao , Chen Bo , Guo Rui , Shu Xiaoli , Zheng Wei , Zhang Ting , Jia Xinyi , Du Xiao , Fang Marong , Jiang Mizu
Published: October 2023

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder. Traditionally, early life stress (ELS) is predisposed to IBS in adult. However, whether ELS induces IBS in early life remains unclear.

Methods

Separated cohort studies were conducted in neonatal male pups of C57BL/6 mice by maternal separation (MS) model. MS and non-separation mice were scheduled to be evaluated for prime IBS-phenotypes, including visceral hypersensitivity, intestinal motility, intestinal permeability, and anxiety-like behavior. Ileal contents and fecal samples were collected and analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bacterial community analyses. Subcellular structures of intestinal epithelial, such as epithelial tight junctions and mitochondria, were observed under transmission electron microscopy.

Results

MS induced visceral hypersensitivity and decreased total intestinal transit time from childhood to adulthood. In addition, MS induced intestinal hyperpermeability and anxiety-like behavior from adolescence to adulthood. Besides, MS affected intestinal microbial composition from childhood to adulthood. Moreover, MS disrupted intestinal mitochondrial structure from childhood to adulthood.

Conclusion

The study showed for the first time that MS induced IBS from early life to adulthood in mice. The disrupted intestinal mitochondrial structure and the significant dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota in early life may contribute to the initiation and progress of IBS from early life to adulthood.
Association of aquaporin-4 antibody-seropositive optic neuritis with vision-related quality of life and depression
Authors: Song Ruitong , Huang Wenqiao , Yang Jun , Tang Xueshan , Huang Yihua , Chen Yingying , Zhao Mukun , Hu Qiuming , Du Yi
Published: October 2023

Objective

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-seropositive optic neuritis (AQP4-ON) is one of the most common types of optic neuritis in China. However, the association between AQP4-ON and vision-related quality of life (QoL) and depression remains poorly understood.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 57 patients with optic neuritis were evaluated for their vision-related QoL using a Chinese version of the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) and assessed for depressive symptoms using a Chinese version of the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Data regarding participants’ age, sex, visual acuity, and the number of recurrence events were gathered. Linear regression analysis was employed to investigate the relationships between AQP4-ON and vision-related QoL, as well as depression.

Results

Of the 57 included patients, 28 were AQP4-ON, and 29 were idiopathic optic neuritis (ION). AQP4-ON demonstrated a significant correlation with a decreased VFQ-25 composite score (Mean difference, −11.65 [95% CI, −21.61 to −1.69]; p = 0.023) and an increased BDI-II score (Mean difference, 6.48 [95% CI, 0.25 to 12.71]; p = 0.042) when compared to ION. The BDI-II score was correlated with the VFQ-25 composite score (Spearman ρ = −0.469; p < 0.001) but not with the visual acuity in the worse-seeing eye (Spearman ρ = 0.024; p = 0.860) or in the better-seeing eye (Spearman ρ = −0.039; p = 0.775), bilateral severe visual impairment (Spearman ρ = 0.039; p = 0.772) or the number of recurrence events (Spearman ρ = 0.184; p = 0.171).

Conclusion

AQP4-positive optic neuritis is associated with a decline in vision-related quality of life as well as an increased likelihood of experiencing depression. It is crucial for clinicians to assess both vision-related QoL and depression in patients with AQP4-positive optic neuritis to provide patient-centered care.
Generation of synthetic EEG data for training algorithms supporting the diagnosis of major depressive disorder
Authors: Carrle Friedrich Philipp , Hollenbenders Yasmin , Reichenbach Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common mental disorder worldwide, leading to impairment in quality and independence of life. Electroencephalography (EEG) biomarkers processed with machine learning (ML) algorithms have been explored for objective diagnoses with promising results. However, the generalizability of those models, a prerequisite for clinical application, is restricted by small datasets. One approach to train ML models with good generalizability is complementing the original with synthetic data produced by generative algorithms. Another advantage of synthetic data is the possibility of publishing the data for other researchers without risking patient data privacy. Synthetic EEG time-series have not yet been generated for two clinical populations like MDD patients and healthy controls.

Methods

We first reviewed 27 studies presenting EEG data augmentation with generative algorithms for classification tasks, like diagnosis, for the possibilities and shortcomings of recent methods. The subsequent empirical study generated EEG time-series based on two public datasets with 30/28 and 24/29 subjects (MDD/controls). To obtain baseline diagnostic accuracies, convolutional neural networks (CNN) were trained with time-series from each dataset. The data were synthesized with generative adversarial networks (GAN) consisting of CNNs. We evaluated the synthetic data qualitatively and quantitatively and finally used it for re-training the diagnostic model.

Results

The reviewed studies improved their classification accuracies by between 1 and 40% with the synthetic data. Our own diagnostic accuracy improved up to 10% for one dataset but not significantly for the other. We found a rich repertoire of generative models in the reviewed literature, solving various technical issues. A major shortcoming in the field is the lack of meaningful evaluation metrics for synthetic data. The few studies analyzing the data in the frequency domain, including our own, show that only some features can be produced truthfully.

Discussion

The systematic review combined with our own investigation provides an overview of the available methods for generating EEG data for a classification task, their possibilities, and shortcomings. The approach is promising and the technical basis is set. For a broad application of these techniques in neuroscience research or clinical application, the methods need fine-tuning facilitated by domain expertise in (clinical) EEG research.
Targeting M-MDSCs enhances the therapeutic effect of BNCT in the 4-NQO-induced murine head and neck squamous cell carcinoma model
Authors: Chang Chun-Hsiang , Chen Chi-Jui , Yu Ching-Fang , Tsai Hui-Yu , Chen Fang-Hsin , Chiang Chi-Shiun
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Malignant head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by a poor prognosis and resistance to conventional radiotherapy. Infiltrating myeloid-derived suppressive cells (MDSCs) is prominent in HNSCC and is linked to immune suppression and tumor aggressiveness. This study aimed to investigate the impact of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) on the MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment and peripheral blood and to explore the potential for MDSCs depletion combined with BNCT to reactivate antitumor immunity.

Methods and materials

Carcinogen, 4-NQO, -induced oral tumors were irradiated with a total physical dose of 2 Gy BNCT in Tsing Hua Open Reactor (THOR). Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry accessed the dynamics of peripheral MDSCs and infiltrated MDSCs within the tumor microenvironment. Mice were injected with an inhibitor of CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R), PLX3397, to determine whether modulating M-MDSCs could affect mice survival after BNCT.

Results

Peripheral CD11b+Ly6ChighLy6G- monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs), but not CD11b+Ly6CloLy6Ghigh polymorphonuclear-MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs), increased as tumor progression. After BNCT treatment, there were temporarily decreased and persistent increases of M-MDSCs thereafter, either in peripheral blood or in tumors. The administration of PLX-3397 hindered BNCT-caused M-MDSCs infiltration, prolonged mice survival, and activated tumor immunity by decreasing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and increasing CD8+ T cells.

Conclusion

M-MDSCs were recruited into 4-NQO-induced tumors after BNCT, and their number was also increased in peripheral blood. Assessment of M-MDSCs levels in peripheral blood could be an index to determine the optimal intervention window. Their temporal alteration suggests an association with tumor recurrence after BNCT, making M-MDSCs a potential intervention target. Our preliminary results showed that PLX-3397 had strong M-MDSCs, TAMs, and TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte) modulating effects that could synergize tumor control when combined with BNCT.
Rhabdomyolysis associated with newer-generation anti-seizure medications (ASMs): a real-world retrospective and pharmacovigilance study
Authors: Deng Zhenzhen , Wang Shengfeng , Wu Cuifang
Published: October 2023

Objective: Rhabdomyolysis is a potentially fatal adverse reaction mostly triggered by certain medications. Few real-world studies have shown a clear association between newer-generation anti-seizure medications (ASMs) and rhabdomyolysis. We sought to quantify the risk and evaluate the clinical features and management of rhabdomyolysis associated with newer-generation ASMs.

Methods: Data were retrieved from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database (FAERS) from 2018 to 2022 on newer-generation ASMs to identify rhabdomyolysis events, and disproportionality analyses were conducted by estimating the reporting odds ratios (RORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Furthermore, case reports from 2012 to 31 December 2022 on newer-generation ASMs-induced rhabdomyolysis were retrieved for retrospective analysis.

Results: A total of 1,130 rhabdomyolysis reports from the FAERS database were considered. Levetiracetam had the greatest proportion and the highest positive signal values of rhabdomyolysis. The RORs (95% CIs) for newer-generation ASMs were, in descending order, levetiracetam 8.01 (7.26–8.84), lamotrigine 3.78 (3.25–4.40), oxcarbazepine 3.47 (2.53–4.75), pregabalin 2.75 (2.43–3.12), lacosamide 1.85 (1.29–2.65), topiramate 1.64 (1.25–2.15), and gabapentin 1.32 (1.13–1.55). Twenty-six case reports showed evidence of rhabdomyolysis, and levetiracetam (65.4%) was the most frequently reported agent. The median age was 32 years; typical initial symptoms included muscle weakness (34.8%), myalgia (34.8%), backache (17.4%), fatigue (13.0%) and leg pain (8.7%). The median time to onset of rhabdomyolysis was 2 days. All cases had elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK), and some cases were accompanied by elevated creatinine (57.1%) and myoglobinuria (53.8%). Cessation of ASMs could lead to complete clinical remission. The median time for creatine phosphokinase (CPK) normalization was 8 days.

Conclusion: This study identified 7 newer-generation ASMs with significant rhabdomyolysis reporting associations. Prescribers should be more aware of this risk and teach patients to recognize rhabdomyolysis signs/symptoms early.
Fuzzy M-fractional integrodifferential models: theoretical existence and uniqueness results, and approximate solutions utilizing the Hilbert reproducing kernel algorithm
Authors: Abu Arqub Omar , Mezghiche Riyane , Maayah Banan
Published: October 2023

This article proposes a new approach to solving fuzzy M-fractional integrodifferential models under strongly generalized differentiability using an innovative formulation of the characterization principle. The study presents theoretical effects on the existence-uniqueness of fuzzy two M-solutions and, thus, showcases the solvability of the fuzzy Volterra models. Moreover, the study offers numerical solutions using the Hilbert reproducing kernel algorithm in a new fuzzy look, utilizing two fitting Hilbert spaces. The proposed models and algorithms are under scrutiny, with particular attention given to the analysis of the series solution, the assessment of convergence, and the evaluation of error. The debated Hilbert approach is shown to be effective in solving several fractional Volterra problems under uncertainty, and the numerical impacts manifest the accuracy and competence of the algorithm. Overall, our work contributes to the advancement of mathematical tools for solving complex fractional Volterra problems under uncertainty and shows potential to impact various fields of science and engineering, as depicted in the utilized figures, tables, and comparative analysis. The findings of the study are evaluated based on the analysis conducted, and a numerical algorithm is presented in the final section, along with several suggestions for future research directions.
A novel Pinellia ternata catalase gene PtCAT2 regulates drought tolerance in Arabidopsis by modulating ROS balance
Authors: Xu Juanjuan , Du Ni , Dong Tianci , Zhang Han , Xue Tao , Zhao Fei , Zhao Fenglan , Duan Yongbo , Xue Jianping
Published: October 2023

Drought is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting agricultural production, particularly for shallow-rooted plants like Pinellia ternata. It damages plants via oxidative burst, but this effect could be mitigated by catalase (CAT). However, no studies have been reported on CAT homologs in P. ternata, a drought-sensitive plant species. In the present study, a novel CAT gene, PtCAT2, was functionally characterized via overexpression in Arabidopsis and analysis of cis-elements in its promoter. The isolated CAT gene was 1479 bp and encoded a protein containing 242 amino acids. The protein contains the CAT activity motif and the heme-binding site of a typical CAT, and the subcellular analysis indicated that the protein localizes at the cytoplasm and membrane. Moreover, the quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR indicated that PtCAT2 is expressed ubiquitously in P. ternata and is strongly induced by drought stress and abscisic acid (ABA) signals. PtCAT2 overexpression enhanced the drought tolerance of Arabidopsis, as shown by the 30% increase in plant survival and a five-fold- increase in CAT activity. Moreover, PtCAT2-transgenic plants increased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities and reduced malondialdehyde, membrane leakage, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (P<0.05). Furthermore, PtCAT2-transgenic plants showed higher tolerance to oxidative stress caused by exogenous H2O2 and retained higher chlorophyll and water contents than the WT. The mitochondria function was better maintained as presented by the higher oxygen consumption rate in transgenics under drought stress (P<0.05). The endogenous CATs and drought response-related genes were also upregulated in transgenic lines under drought stress, indicating that PtCAT2 confers drought stress tolerance by enhancing the H2O2 scavenging ability of plants to maintain their membrane integrity. These results improve our understanding of the drought response mechanisms and provide a potential breeding strategy for P. ternata genetic improvement.