bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citizen science predicts the distribution of the treeline in the Fennoscandian Arctic
Authors: Ramirez Juan Ignacio
Published: September 2023

Context
The effects of climate change in the Arctic are particularly pronounced since temperatures have risen nearly four times as fast as in the rest of the planet. Shifts in climatic patterns enable the expansion of temperature-limited vegetation at a global-scale to higher latitudes and elevations.
Objectives
The purpose of this study is to predict the distribution of the main tree species in the treeline across Fennoscandia by drawing from three distinctive datasets. I ask which method used to collect data is better at predicting the distribution of the treeline? How will the distribution of the treeline respond to climate change in the next 50 years?
Methods
Three tree datasets together with environmental data were used to spatially model the treeline. The first dataset was compiled by setting up a network of vegetation plots in Fennoscandia. The second belongs to the Swedish National Forest Inventory and the third is from a Swedish online portal where citizens report their species observations. Environmental data was sourced from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project.
Results
The citizen science dataset was superior in predicting treeline distribution due to the large-number and wide-spatial distribution of observations. The probability of treeline presence increased with temperature and decreased with precipitation, meaning that the treeline will expand in distribution to higher elevations. These responses are tree species-specific.
Conclusion
The conservation of the tundra is threatened by the encroachment of the treeline which is driven by climate, and citizen science holds unique importance for wide spatial and temporal ecological research.
Silencing HOXC13 exerts anti-prostate cancer effects by inducing DNA damage and activating cGAS/STING/IRF3 pathway
Authors: Li Maozhang , Bai Guangwei , Cen Yi , Xie Qitong , Zhou Xiaobo , Chen Jiahong , Chen Jia , Chen Qingbiao , Zhou Xihuan , Zhong Weide
Published: September 2023

Background
Advanced prostate cancer (PCa) will develop into castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and lead to poor prognosis. As the primary subtype of CRPC, CRPC-AR accounts for the major induction of PCa heterogeneity. CRPC-AR is mainly driven by 25 transcription factors (TFs), which we speculate may be the key factors driving PCa toward CRPC. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the key regulator and its molecular mechanism mediating PCa progression.
Methods
Firstly, we downloaded transcriptomic data and clinical information from TCGA-PRAD. The characteristic gene cluster was identified by PPI clustering, GO enrichment, co-expression correlation and clinical feature analyses for 25 TFs. Then, the effects of 25 TFs expression on prognosis of PCa patients was analyzed using univariate Cox regression, and the target gene was identified. The expression properties of the target gene in PCa tissues were verified using tissue microarray. Meanwhile, the related mechanistic pathway of the target gene was mined based on its function. Next, the target gene was silenced by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) for cellular function and mechanistic pathway validation. Finally, CIBERSORT algorithm was used to analyze the infiltration levels of 22 immune cells in PCa patients with low and high expression of target gene, and validated by assaying the expression of related immunomodulatory factor.
Results
We found that HOX family existed independently in 25 TFs, among which HOXC10, HOXC12 and HOXC13 had unique clinical features and the PCa patients with high HOXC13 expression had the worst prognosis. In addition, HOXC13 was highly expressed in tumor tissues and correlated with Gleason score and pathological grade. In vitro experiments demonstrated that silencing HOXC13 inhibited 22RV1 and DU145 cell function by inducing cellular DNA damage and activating cGAS/STING/IRF3 pathway. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that high HOXC13 expression suppressed infiltration of γδ T cells and plasma cells and recruited M2 macrophages. Consistent with these
Noise-Free Sampling with Majority for Imbalanced Classification Problem
Authors: Firdausanti Neni Alya , Mendonça Israel , Aritsugi Masayoshi
Published: September 2023

Class imbalance has been widely accepted as a significant factor that negatively impacts a machine learning classifier's performance. One of the techniques to avoid this problem is to balance the data distribution by using sampling-based approaches, in which synthetic data is generated using the probability distribution of classes. However, this process is sensitive to the presence of noise in the data, in which the boundaries between the majority class and the minority class are blurred. Such phenomena shift the algorithm's decision boundary away from an ideal outcome. In this work, we propose a framework that tackles two primary objectives: first, to address class distribution imbalance by synthetically increasing the data of a minority class; and second, to devise an efficient noise reduction technique that improves the class balance algorithm. The proposed framework focuses its capability towards removing noisy elements from the majority class, and by doing so, provides more accurate information to the subsequent synthetic data generator algorithm. Experimental results show that our framework is capable of improving the prediction accuracy of eight classifiers from 7.78% up to 67.45% for eleven datasets tested.
Identification of a novel parvovirus in the Arctic wolf (Canis lupus)
Authors: Dai Ziyuan , Zhu Rong , Chen Hongmei , Sun Mingzhong
Published: September 2023

Through the utilization of a viral metagenomic approach, a novel virus has been found in a pharyngeal metagenomic library derived from an Arctic wolf (Canis lupus). This virus has been temporarily designated as AWPV and assigned a GenBank accession number BK063423. The genome of AWPV is comprised of 4,920 base pairs, and its nucleotide composition is composed of 36.4% A, 23.4% T, 18.2% G, and 22.0% C, with a GC content of 40.2%. The viral genome demonstrates a typical pattern of parvovirus organization, with two predicted ORFs: ORF1, which encodes non-structural proteins NS1 and NS2, and ORF2, which encodes VP1 and VP2. By performing a pairwise sequence comparison and a phylogenetic analysis based on the NS1 and VP1 protein sequences, it has been suggested that AWPV may represent a novel species within the genus Protoparvovirus. This discovery of a novel parvovirus has enhanced our comprehension of the mammalian virus ecology and has facilitated an improved understanding of potential future infectious diseases.
Prioritization of Important Plant Areas for conservation of frailejones (Espeletiinae, Asteraceae) in the Northern Andes
Authors: Morales-Rozo Clara , Acuña-Rodríguez Ian S. , Duque Juan Carlos Benavides , Rincon-Parra Víctor Julio , Diazgranados Mauricio
Published: September 2023

The Tropical Andes region harbors highly significant and threatened biodiversity areas. However, due to its misidentification, conservation initiatives in these regions are limited and need more substantial support. Identifying Important Plant Areas (IPAs) offers a valuable methodology for establishing conservation priorities, a particularly complex task in a mega-biodiverse region such as the Andean tropics. Due to its iconic recognition and conservation value, this study focused on the Espeletiinae subtribe (Asteraceae) as a reference group, and we compiled species distribution data for 138 taxa from 5,560 georeferenced records. Using the IPA, we divided the study area into 220 Units of Analysis (UA) represented by 10 × 10 km plots. Refined distribution areas, incorporating richness, threatened species, and ecosystem-based richness distributions, were analyzed using newly generated maps. Most UAs were concentrated in Colombia's Eastern Cordillera, extending into Venezuela. Our analysis identified 176 UAs using sub-criterion cA1 (with 59 species) and 51 UAs using sub-criterion cB (with 76 species). We classified 11 UAs as high-priority, 58 as medium-priority, and 143 as low-priority, highlighting the IPAs that require focused conservation efforts. Key findings from our study include: i) the first regional-level application of IPA methodology; ii) the potential of implementing criteria A and B to support global biodiversity recovery targets; and iii) the suitability of Espeletiinae as a focal group for systematic conservation planning in the region. Accordingly, we consider that our results establish a spatial planning procedure and analytical tool for decision-makers to guide conservation management and actions across the tropical Andean region.
Lions & sea lions & bears, oh my: utilizing museum specimens to study the ossification sequence of carnivoran taxa
Authors: Sarasa Jonathan L , Okamoto Alexander S , Wright Mark A , Pierce Stephanie E , Capellini Terence D
Published: September 2023

Background:
Mammalian skeletons are largely formed before birth. Heterochronic changes in skeletal formation can be investigated by comparing the order of ossification for different elements of the skeleton. Due to the challenge of collecting prenatal specimens in viviparous taxa, opportunistically collected museum specimens provide the best material for studying prenatal skeletal development across many mammalian species. Previous studies have investigated ossification sequence in a range of mammalian species, but little is known about the pattern of bone formation in Carnivora. Carnivorans have diverse ecologies, diets, and biomechanical specializations and are well-suited for investigating questions in evolutionary biology. Currently, developmental data on carnivorans is largely limited to domesticated species. To expand available data on carnivoran skeletal development, we used micro computed tomography (micro-CT) to non-invasively evaluate the degree of ossification in all prenatal carnivoran specimens housed in the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology. By coding the presence or absence of bones in each specimen, we constructed ossification sequences for each species. Parsimov-based genetic inference (PGi) was then used to identify heterochronic shifts between carnivoran lineages and reconstruct the ancestral ossification sequence of Carnivora.
Results:
We used micro-CT to study prenatal ossification sequence in six carnivora species: Eumetopias jubatus (Steller sea lion, n = 6), Herpestes javanicus (small Indian mongoose, n = 1), Panthera leo (lion, n = 1), Urocyon cinereoargenteus (gray fox, n = 1), Ursus arctos arctos (Eurasian brown bear, n = 1), and Viverricula indica (small Indian civet, n = 5). Due to the relatively later stage of collection for the available specimens, few heterochronic shifts were identified. Ossification sequences of feliform species showed complete agreement with the domestic cat. In caniforms, the bear and fox ossification sequences largely matched the dog, but numerous heterochronic shifts were identified in the sea lion.
Conclusions:
We use museum specimens to generate cranial and postcranial micro-CT data on six species split between the two major carnivoran clades: Caniformia and Feliformia. Our data suggest that the ossification sequence of domesticated dogs and cats are likely good models for terrestrial caniforms and feliforms, respectively, but not pinnipeds.
Young BMSC-derived extracellular vesicles containing lncRNA sponging miR-1843a-5p to regulate Mob3a/YAP axis promote osteogenesis of senescent BMSCs
Authors: Qi Lei , Pan Cancan , Yan Jinge , Ge Weiwen , Liu Lu , Zhao Hanjiang , Wang Jing , Zhang Lei , Lin Dan , Shen Steve GF
Published: September 2023

Bone repair in elderly patients poses a huge challenge due to the age-related progressive degenerative decline in regenerative abilities attributed to the senescence of bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs). Stem cell extracellular vesicles-mediated therapy are increasingly acknowledged as a promising strategy for delaying senescence and promoting osteogenesis. Osteoinductive exosome (OI-exo) derived from young BMSCs was applied to treatment of aging bone regeneration and demonstrated to alleviate aging-related phenotypes and promote proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of senescent BMSCs in vitro. OI-exo-loaded hierarchical mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) scaffold was applied in calvarial defect of aged rats and induced rapid bone formation and efficient enhancement in osteogenesis in vivo, though excess activity of bone resorption in senescent individuals remained a tremendous challenge in aged bone regeneration. The potential underlying mechanism of young extracellular vesicles-enhanced osteogenesis of old BMSCs was revealed that OI-exos were rich in lncRNA-ENSRNOG00000056625, which functioned as a promoter of YAP dephosphorylation and nuclear translocation, ultimately resulting in elevated proliferation and osteogenic differentiation and reduced senescence-related phenotypes. The findings herein revealed the competing endogenous RNA network lncRNA-ENSRNOG00000056625/miR-1843a-5p/Mob3a, and might provide novel insights into the extracellular vesicles-stimulated osteogenesis and the downstream YAP signaling as a potential critical pathway in aging bone regeneration.
Carbon content and Stock per unit Volume of Bamboo- and Wood-based panels
Authors: Zhang Suzhen , Hong Yifeng , Yu Haixia , Yang Weiming , Zhan Mengyao , Zhang Yahui , Zhu Anming , Yu Wenji
Published: September 2023

Bamboo and fast-growing wood are sustainable, low-carbon materials that function as forest carbon sinks and can be processed into products that sequester carbon dioxide. Compared with other petrochemical materials, they showed the advantage of low-carbon sustainable development. However, the carbon content of bamboo- and wood-based panels (BWBP) is yet to be systematically quantified. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the carbon content and stock per unit volume of typical BWBP and systematically analyzed the influencing factors. In total 43 typical BWBP were collected from the market, their carbon content was determined using the dry burning method, and the carbon stock per unit volume was calculated. The thermal stability and elemental composition were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results indicated that the material used, basic compositional units, and auxiliary materials were important factors affecting the carbon content, with a higher content observed in bamboo-based boards. The highest carbon contents of 53.81% and 50.22% were observed in the hot-pressed deep and shallow carbonized reconstituted bamboo boards, respectively. For the constituent units, a smaller size indicated greater carbon loss and lower carbon content; the highest carbon content of 48.20% was observed in laminated wood, and the lowest in fiberboard (44.08%). Carbon storage is closely related to the density, carbon content, and water content. The carbon storage capacity of the bamboo-based board was generally higher than that of the wood-based board, with the highest (563.72 kg/\({\text{m}}^{3}\)) observed in recombined bamboo and the lowest (181.93 kg/\({\text{m}}^{3}\)) in laminated wood.
Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy in the young
Authors: Shyr Bor-Shiuan , Shih Mu-Shan , Wang Shin-E , Chen Shih-Chin , Shyr Yi-Ming , Shyr Bor-Uei
Published: September 2023

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is rarely performed in young patients, and the impact of age on surgical and survival outcomes after robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to evaluate the surgical and survival outcomes of patients aged < 50 years who underwent robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy. A comparative study was conducted on patients who underwent robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy divided into two groups: young (age, < 50 years) and old (age, ≥ 50 years). A total of 555 patients were included in this study, with 53 (9.5%) in the young group and 502 (90.5%) in the old group. Periampullary adenocarcinomas were less common in the young group (32.1% vs. 76.5%), whereas solid and pseudopapillary tumors (9.4% vs. 1.0%) and neuroendocrine tumors (15.1% vs. 3.6%) were more common. Soft pancreatic parenchyma (77.4% vs. 62.5%) and non-dilated (≤ 3 mm) pancreatic ducts (77.4% vs. 46.3%) were more prevalent in the young group. The young group had a shorter length of stay (median, 16 vs. 20 days). There were no significant differences in the other surgical outcomes and risks. Survival outcomes for overall periampullary adenocarcinoma favored the young group, with a 5-year survival rate of 76.4% vs. 46.7% in the old group. Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy in the young patients (< 50 years) is associated with comparable surgical outcomes and favorable survival outcomes for periampullary adenocarcinoma compared with the older patients (≥ 50 years). These findings highlight the feasibility and safety of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy in the young population.
Evolution and why everything else: psychic systems and how they drive neurobehavioral patterns
Authors: Shafik Ali Ismail Ahmed
Published: September 2023

This research paper explores the Evolutionary Seeking System (ESS) and its potential applications in understanding human behavior and mental health. Employing a multi-faceted methodology encompassing qualitative and quantitative approaches, as well as case studies, we investigate the intricate dynamics of the ESS and its interaction with Survival by Proxy (SbP). I delve into the role of neural networks, external stimuli, and their impact on adaptation and coping mechanisms.
Methodology
Qualitative data collection involved semi-structured interviews, while quantitative data was gathered through survey questionnaires, both exploring participants' experiences related to stress, adaptation, and coping mechanisms. Case studies provided in-depth insights into real-life scenarios, including addiction recovery. Ethical considerations ensured participant consent and confidentiality. Thematic analysis and statistical methods were applied for data analysis.
Results
Qualitative findings revealed recurring themes related to the ESS and SbP, highlighting their significance in shaping human responses to stressors. Quantitative data indicated a prevalence of Survival by Proxy behaviors in various contexts. Case studies illustrated the complexities of these concepts in real-life scenarios.
Conclusion
This research underscores the potential significance of the ESS in explaining psychiatric diseases, neurobehavioral patterns, and as an effective framework for psychoanalysis and neurobehavioral research. By dissecting the interplay between neural networks, survival mechanisms, and external stimuli, we gain deeper insights into the origins of behavioral patterns and mental health conditions. The ESS has the potential to bridge evolutionary biology, psychology, and neuroscience, offering new avenues for research and innovative therapies. Further exploration and development of this theory hold the promise of a more comprehensive understanding of the human experience and its implications for well-being.
Temperature-dependent reflectance of copper with different surface conditions measured at 1064 nm
Authors: Mattern Manuel , Kukreja Lalit Mohan , Ostendorf Andreas
Published: September 2023

In order to fully understand and eventually overcome the instabilities in laser welding of copper using 1064 nm wavelength lasers, it is important to get a deeper understanding about the interaction of the incident beam with the copper surface during the process. One of the main parameters determining this behavior is the temperature-dependent absorptance. However, the existing datasets only show little consistency between the different sources, do often not include the important absorptance step at melt temperature, or they are only calculated. This article thus presents our experimental approach to measure the reflectance of electro tough pitch copper (Cu-ETP) from room temperature until beyond the melting point with an integrating sphere setup. The setup was developed with particular attention to measurement accuracy up to high temperatures. We measured the reflectance using a 1064 nm laser under an incident angle of 12° for four different sample groups, which are untreated copper as received from the supplier, mechanically polished copper, copper that we annealed in a nitrogen atmosphere for oxide reduction and copper that had resolidified after melting in nitrogen atmosphere. The measurement results reveal significant differences in the temperature-dependent reflectance between the sample types and, for some types, also between the samples of the same type. This study investigates the origins of the most significant features in the reflectance curves and their potential impact on laser copper processes like laser welding.
Amlodipine increases risk of primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Lehrer Steven , Rheinstein Peter
Published: September 2023

Background
The use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs), especially cardioselective medicines, is associated with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in a statistically meaningful but minor way. In general, those who had received CCB medication were at a 23% increased risk of developing glaucoma in comparison to those who had never taken the antihypertensive drugs.
Methods
We used MedWatch and UK Biobank (UKBB) data to evaluate the effects of amlodipine on POAG and intra ocular pressure (IOP). We analyzed 3 POAG associated SNPs: rs9913911, an intron variant in Growth arrest-specific 7 (GAS7), one of the genes that influences IOP; rs944801, an intron variant within CDKN2B-AS1, and rs2093210, an intron variant within SIX6, known to be associated with vertical cup-disc ratio (VCDR), an important optic nerve head parameter that is often used to define or diagnose glaucoma.
Results
Amlodipine use in MedWatch doubled the prevalence of POAG, from 0.0805–0.177%, a small but significant increase. Multivariate analysis by logistic regression of UKBB data revealed that POAG risk was significantly increased with age, male sex, and major alleles of rs9913911 (GAS7) and rs944801 (CDKN2B-AS1), minor allele of rs2093210 (SIX6). Amlodipine increased POAG risk by 16.1% (p = 0.032).
Conclusion
Amlodipine, a frequently prescribed drug and first line treatment for hypertension, has a potentially hazardous relationship with POAG. Knowledge of this link can guide the prescribing of alternate drugs for hypertensive individuals who have glaucoma or are at risk for it. Diuretics and beta blockers are not associated with POAG or increased IOP and could be substituted for amlodipine in hypertensive patients with POAG. If the physician feels that amlodipine treatment is necessary, hypertensive patients with a family history of glaucoma should have at least an eye examination and regular follow-up scheduled before amlodipine is initiated.
THE INFLUENCE OF INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF SHARIA PUBLIC BANK INDONESIA IN 2019-2021
Authors: Andriani Andriani , Fauziah Della Rohmatul
Published: September 2023

The increasing market share of Islamic banking makes competition between Islamic banks tighter. The increasing competition of Islamic banks can be overcome by improving their financial performance. Intellectual capital as one of the intangible resources is considered to have an influence on improving financial performance for Islamic banks. This study aims to determine the value of intellectual capital and the level of financial performance of Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia, as well as the effect of intellectual capital on the financial performance of Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia. The method used in this research is quantitative with secondary data sources. The sample technique is in the form of purposive sampling with a total n of 84 and using simple linear analysis. The results of the study indicate that there is a positive influence of intellectual capital on the financial performance of Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia.
Is ChatGPT Leading Generative AI? What is Beyond Expectations?
Authors: AYDIN Ömer , KARAARSLAN Enis
Published: September 2023

Generative AI has the potential to change the way we do things. The chatbot is one of the most popular implementation areas. Even though companies like Google and Meta had chatbots, ChatGPT became popular as it was made publicly available. Although ChatGPT is still in the early stages of its development, it attracted the attention of people and capital groups. It has taken the public interest; people from different fields, ages, and education levels started using ChatGPT. There have been many trials with ChatGPT. It is possible to see a lot of news and shares on the Internet. The study aims to shed light on what is happening in the literature and get an insight into the user expectations of ChatGPT and Generative AI. We also give information about the competitors of ChatGPT, such as Google’s Bard AI, Claude, Meta’s Wit.ai and Tencent’s HunyuanAide. We describe technical and structural fundamentals and try to shed light on who will win the race. We also shared information about the GPT4 version of OpenAI's ChatGPT. We share the early stage due diligence and current situation analysis for all these points. We examine preprint papers and published articles. We also included striking posts on the LinkedIn platform and a compilation of various blogs and news. We also made use of ChatGPT in editing the content of these resources of this study. We can get an insight into the people's interests through their questions submitted to ChatGPT. We can also understand the capabilities of GPT3, GPT4 and also predict further enhancements.
Ion exchange synthesis of copper-based hydroxyapatite for the catalytic degradation of phenol
Authors: Peng Yu , Wang Zhaobo , Ren Dajun , Zhang Xiaoqing , Zhang Shuqin , Chen Wangsheng
Published: September 2023

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a material renowned for its exceptional capabilities in adsorbing and exchanging heavy metal ions, making it a widely employed substance within the environmental domain. This study aims to present a novel material, namely copper–HAP (Cu–HAP), which was synthesized via an ion exchange method. The resulting material underwent comprehensive characterization using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. Subsequently, based on the principle of the Fenton-like oxidation reaction, the material was used for the degradation of phenol. The outcomes of the investigation revealed that the optimal preparation conditions for the catalyst were achieved at a temperature of 40 °C, a pH value of 5, and a relative dosage of Cu–HAP at 100 mg/g. Under the reaction conditions of a catalyst dosage of 2 g/L, a 30% hydrogen peroxide concentration of 30 mM, a phenol concentration of 20 mg/L, a pH value of 6, a temperature of 40 °C, and the degradation rate of phenol impressively reached 98.12%. Furthermore, the degradation rate remained at 42.31% even after five consecutive cycles, indicating the promising potential of Cu–HAP in the treatment of recalcitrant organic compounds within this field.
Mulheres docentes na pós-graduação
Authors: Ketzer Patricia , Maldaner Luciane , Ribeiro Silvana
Published: September 2023

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar as vivências das professoras mulheres nos programas de pós-graduação de uma universidade do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. O problema que guiou esta pesquisa pode ser formulado da seguinte maneira: no tocante à docência na pós-graduação desta universidade, quais são os desafios para as mulheres em relação ao acesso e à permanência? A pesquisa justifica-se a partir da constatação de que dos 152 docentes cadastrados em Programas de Pós-Graduação desta universidade, apenas 59 são mulheres. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio da aplicação de questionários, visto que se trata de uma técnica adequada quando pretende-se reconhecer a percepção dos pesquisados sobre o assunto em questão. Pode-se concluir que as sobrecargas de demandas somadas às tarefas domésticas e familiares são as principais dificuldades de acesso e permanência. Apesar destas dificuldades, as docentes relatam satisfação na relação com os estudantes, no exercício de cargos de gestão e no processo de internacionalização do curso. Em relação à preponderância masculina nos programas, constatam que os homens possuem melhor currículo, em função de não possuírem sobrecarga de trabalho doméstico e familiar, ainda que algumas das entrevistadas tenham relatado não saber o motivo.
Sex-Dependent Synergism of an Edible THC: CBD Formulation in
Reducing Anxiety and Depressive-like Symptoms Following Chronic Stress
Authors: Pérez-Valenzuela Enzo , Hudson Roger , Uzuneser Taygun , De Felice Marta , Szkudlarek Hanna , Rushlow Walter , Laviolette Steven R.
Published: September 2023

:

Cannabis has shown therapeutic potential in mood and anxiety-related pathologies. However,
the two primary constituents of cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
produce distinct effects on molecular pathways in neural circuits associated with affective disorders.
Moreover, it has been proposed that the combination of THC: and CBD may have unique synergistic
properties. In the present study, the effects of a 1:100 THC: CBD ratio edible formulation were tested
in behavioural, neuronal and molecular assays for anxiety and depressive-like endophenotypes. Adult
male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were stressed for 14 days. Then, for three weeks, open field, elevated
plus maze, light/dark box, social interaction, sucrose preference, and the forced swim test were
performed 90 minutes after acute consumption of CBD (30 mg/kg), THC (0.3 mg/kg), or 1:100 combination
of THC:CBD. After behavioural tests, in vivo, neuronal electrophysiological analyses were
performed in the ventral tegmental area and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Furthermore, western-blot experiments
examined the expression of biomarkers associated with mood and anxiety disorders, including
protein kinase B (Akt), glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3), BDNF, mTOR, D1, and D2 receptor in
nucleus accumbens (NAc) and PFC.Edible THC:CBD produces significant anxiolytic and antidepressant
effects only in stressed male rats. In most cases, the combination of THC and CBD had stronger
effects than either phytochemical alone. These synergistic effects are associated with alterations in
Akt/GSK3 and D2-R expression in NAc and BDNF expression in PFC. Furthermore, THC:CBD reverses
chronic stress-induced alterations in PFC neuronal activity. These findings demonstrate a novel
synergistic potential for THC:CBD edible formulations in stress-related pathologies.
Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis in Clinical Practice
Authors: Tosca Maria Angela , Trincianti Chiara , Naso Matteo , Nosratian Valentina , Ciprandi Giorgio
Published: September 2023

Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent condition among children, with its occurrence reaching up
to 40% of the general population in some geographical areas. A type 2 immunity sustains allergic
rhinitis. Consequently, type 2 inflammation leads to eosinophilic infiltrate of the nasal mucosa. Al-
lergic inflammation causes the symptom occurrence. Typical nasal symptoms include nasal itch-
ing, sneezing, watery rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion. Nasal congestion depends on vasodilation
and increased mucus production. These conditions result in nasal obstruction. Nasal obstruction is
closely associated with type 2 inflammation. Allergic rhinitis usually occurs in association with
other allergic conditions, in particular allergic conjunctivitis and asthma. The effective manage-
ment of allergic rhinitis involves avoiding triggering allergens and employing pharmacological
treatments as per ARIA guidelines. These treatments may include intranasal/oral antihistamines
or/and nasal corticosteroids. In particular, antihistamines are particularly indicated for symptoms
consequent to mediators’ release, mainly concerning histamine. These histamine-dependent symp-
toms include itching, sneezing, and rhinorrhea. Nasal obstruction, being associated with inflamma-
tion, is responsive to corticosteroids, administered mostly intranasally. The fixed combination of a
topical antihistamine plus a topical corticosteroid is very effective, but is indicated for adolescents
only. However, nasal lavage is safe, cheap, and adequate, thus its use is prevalent. Namely, nasal la-
vage allows to remove secretions, allergens, mediators. In addition, hypertonic solutions exert a de-
congestant activity. On the other hand, the allergen-specific immunotherapy is still the only causal
treatment. Nutraceuticals have also been used to relieve symptoms. The objective of this review is
to explore and compare the traditional and new therapeutic approaches for pollen-induced allergic
rhinitis in children.
Hyper IgE Syndromes
Authors: Gracci Serena , Novelli Tommaso , D'Elios Sofia , Bernardini Roberto , Peroni Diego
Published: September 2023

The Hyper IgE Syndromes are rare primary immunodeficiencies characterized by eczema, recurrent skin and respiratory infections and elevated serum IgE levels. Nowadays a genetic-molecular characterization is possible and allows the distinction in various monogenic pathologies, which share some clinical characteristics but also important differences. In addition to long-known STAT3 and DOCK8 gene mutations, in fact, also ZNF341, CARD11, ERBB2IP, IL6R and IL6ST genes mutations can cause the disease. The main clinical manifestations are represented by newborn rash, eczema similar to atopic dermatitis, bacterial and viral skin infections, cold abscesses, respiratory infections with possible pulmonary complications, allergies, gastrointestinal manifestations, malignancies and connective tissue abnormalities. Diagnosis is still a challenge because, especially in the early stages of life, it is difficult to distinguish from other pathologies characterized by eczema and high IgE, such as atopic dermatitis. Several scores and diagnostic pathways have been developed, but it is essential to seek a genetic diagnosis. Treatment is based on prevention and early treatment of infections, meticulous skincare, intravenous immunoglobulins and HSCT, which, in some HIES subtypes, can modify the prognosis. Prognosis is related to the affected gene, but also to early diagnosis, timely treatment of infections and early HSCT.
Immunoglobulin G4-related Disease with Multiple Organs Involvement
Depicted on FDG PET/CT: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhu Xiaoying , Wu Lili , Lv Panpan , han Yongmei , Zhuang Yiyu
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a relatively rare immune-mediated chronic inflammatory disease with fibrosis newly defined in
recent years. It can involve multiple systems and organs with complex clinical manifestations. Due to mass-like lesions, it is easily misdiagnosed as
tumors.

Case Report:

Herein, we report a 57-year-old woman treated for submandibular mass and anosmia. The serum IgG4 level was increased. The biopsy of the
submandibular gland indicated salivary gland tissue and hyperplasia of fibrous tissue and lymphoid tissue. Immunohistochemical examination
showed a large number of IgG4-positive plasma cells. M protein was found in the patient's serum by immunofixation electrophoresis, and plasma
cell diseases were excluded by bone marrow puncture. PET/CT examination showed that besides the submandibular glands, the parotid gland,
common bile duct, the transitional part of the left renal pelvis and ureter, retroperitoneum in the lower abdomen, and multiple lymph nodes were
also involved. The patient was diagnosed with IgG4-RD, and after treatment with glucocorticoid, the enlargement of submandibular glands and
decreased olfactory function improved. After 14 weeks of treatment, the serological examinations, PET/CT, and ultrasound re-examination results
showed significant improvement. So far, the patient has been followed up for 27 months and is in continuous remission.

Conclusion:

This case report aims to raise awareness of IgG4-RD and explore the value of PET/CT in the diagnosis and efficacy monitoring of the disease.
Association of Obesity based on Different Metabolic Status with Risk of Gout Occurrence in Patients: A National Study
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Liu Luna , Ma Shizhan , Han Junming , Wang Zhixiang , Fan Xiude , Hou Xu
Published: September 2023

Background:

Obesity often co-exists with metabolic abnormalities, but the results of
studies on the relationship between obesity, metabolic abnormalities and the risk of gout are inconsistent.

Objective:

We aimed to study whether there was a mutual regulation between obesity, metabolic
abnormalities and the risk of gout.

Method:

We conducted a cross-sectional study to expound the association between obesity
based on different metabolic statuses and the risk of gout. Patients were derived from Nationwide
Readmission Database (2018 sample).

Results:

A total of 9,668,330 records were recruited for analysis from January to December. The
risk of gout in the obesity group, metabolic abnormalities group and obesity combined with metabolic
abnormalities group was 1.67 times (OR = 1.67, 95%CI 1.64-1.70), 3.12 times (OR = 3.12,
95%CI 3.09-3.15) and 4.27 times (OR = 4.27, 95%CI 4.22-4.32) higher than that in the normal control
group. For different metabolic components, OR value was highest in hypertension group (OR =
2.65, 95%CI 2.60-2.70 and OR = 4.85, 95%CI 4.73-4.97), followed by dyslipidemia group (OR =
2.23, 95%CI 2.16-2.30 and OR = 3.74, 95%CI 3.55-3.95) and in hyperglycemia group (OR = 1.73,
95%CI 1.66-1.80 and OR = 2.94, 95%CI 2.78-3.11). Fewer components of metabolic syndrome
were associated with a lower risk of gout in both nonobese and obese patients.

Conclusion:

When metabolic abnormalities were present, obesity induced a higher risk of gout.
Different components of metabolic abnormalities had different effects on the risk of gout occurrence,
and the number of metabolic abnormalities was closely related to the risk of gout occurrence.
Follow-up and intervention methods targeting obesity and metabolic abnormalities should
be considered for patients with gout.
Metabolomics: A Tool to Envisage Biomarkers in Clinical Interpretation
of Cancer
Authors: Bhalla Medha , Mittal Roopal , Kumar Manish , Bhatia Rohit , Kushwah Ajay Singh
Published: September 2023

Background:

Cancer is amongst the most dreadful ailments of modern times, and its
impact continuously worsens global health systems. Early diagnosis and suitable therapeutic
agents are the prime keys to managing this disease. Metabolomics deals with the complete profiling
of cells and physiological phenomena in their organelles, thus helping in keen knowledge of
the pathological status of the disease. It has been proven to be one of the best strategies in the early
screening of cancer.

Objective:

This review has covered the recent updates on the promising role of metabolomics in
the identification of significant biochemical markers in cancer-prone individuals that could lead to
the identification of cancer in the early stages.

Methods:

The literature was collected through various databases, like Scopus, PubMed, and
Google Scholar, with stress laid on the last ten years' publications.

Conclusion:

It was assessed in this review that early recognition of cancerous growth could be
achieved via complete metabolic profiling in association with transcriptomics and proteomics. The
outcomes are rooted in various clinical studies that anticipated various biomarkers like tryptophan,
phenylalanine, lactates, and different metabolic pathways associated with the Warburg effect. This
metabolite imaging has been a fundamental step for the target acquisition, evaluation of predictive
cancer biomarkers for early detection, and outlooks into cancer therapy along with critical evaluation.
Significant efforts should be made to make this technique most reliable and easy.
PENGARUH TEPUNG AMPAS KEDELAI DALAM PEMBUATAN FLAKES UBI JALAR MERAH
Authors: Nopiani Yanti , Fortuna Ayu Dewi , Rossi Evy , Zalfiatri Yelmira , Nurhajijah Siti
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji pengaruh penambahan tepung ampas kedelai terhadap mutu flakes dari tepung ubi jalar merah. Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) digunakan dalam penelitian ini, dengan 6 perlakuan dan 3 ulangan. Perlakuan yang digunakan adalah penggunaan rasio tepung ubi jalar merah dan tepung ampas kedelai (w/w): UA0 (100:0%), UA1 ( 90:10%), UA2 (80:20%), UA3 (70:30%), dan UA4 (60:40%) dan UA5 (50:50%). Data yang diperoleh dianalisis secara statistik dengan menggunakan ANOVA dan diuji lanjut dengan DNMRT pada taraf 5%. Rasio penggunaan tepung ubi jalar merah dan tepung ampas kedelai berpengaruh nyata terhadap kadar air, abu, lemak, protein, serat kasar, ketahanan renyah flakes di dalam susu, dan uji sensori secara deskriptif dan hedonik (warna, aroma, tekstur dan rasa). Flakes terpilih adalah perlakuan UA2 (80:20%) yang memiliki kadar air, abu, lemak, protein, serat kasar 5,30%, 3,87%, 1,83%, 6,52%, dan 5,59%, sementara lama kerenyahan di dalam susu selama 163 detik. Hasil uji deskriptif UA2 adalah flakes berwarna orange kecoklatan, memiliki aroma ubi jalar, bertekstur agak renyah dan memiliki rasa ubi jalar merah. Selanjutnya hasil uji hedonik UA2 menunjukkan bahwa panelis menyukai flakes dari segi warna, aroma, tekstur dan rasa.
EKSTRAKSI NANOKALSIUM TULANG IKAN TENGGIRI (Scomberomorus sp.) DENGAN ULTRASOUND ASSISTED EXTRACTION
Authors: Usman Sihab Muhammad , Pranowo Dodyk , Santoso Imam
Published: September 2023

Kalsium merupakan mineral esensial yang memiliki peranan penting di dalam tubuh untuk pembentukan tulang. Kalsium umumnya dikonsumsi dalam bentuk mikro kalsium yang menyebabkan penyerapan oleh tubuh hanya 50% sehingga sering menyebabkan defisiensi. Sumber kalsium yang aman digunakan umumnya dari tulang ikan, yang merupakan limbah tidak termanfaatkan, salah satunya adalah tulang ikan tenggiri. Pada penelitian ini digunakan ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) untuk mengekstrak nanokalsium. Kalsium berukuran nano lebih mudah diserap oleh tubuh dan dapat terapsorbsi secara cepat dan sempurna. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis interaksi waktu eksitasi dan amplitudo terhadap karakteristik nanokalsium yang dihasilkan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan solusi terbaik untuk memproduksi nanokalsium dengan waktu eksitasi 100,04 menit dan amplitudo 75,00% dengan prediksi nilai respons yakni rendemen 47,49%; derajat putih 85,47%; dan kadar kalsium 47,62%. Distribusi ukuran partikel nanokalsium dengan posisi pengukuran 4,65mm dari dinding sel memiliki rata-rata ukuran 142,3nm dan PdI 0,226. Hasil analisis XRD menunjukkan puncak utama muncul pada sudut 2θ = 31,73. Selain itu, beberapa puncak muncul di 25,90; 28,99; 32,99; 34,18; 39,79; 43,97; 46,79 dan 49,62. Berdasarkan persamaan scherrer diperoleh ukuran rata-rata kristal 26,16 nm dan derajat kristalinitas 83,35%. Hasil analisis gugus fungsi yang terindikasi pada nanokalsium diantaranya adalah gugus fosfat (PO43-), karbonat (CO32-) dan gugus hidroksil (OH).
La Biblioteca Virtual de la Filología Española (BVFE) y su acervo hispanoamericano
Authors: Peña Arce Jaime , García Aranda María Ángeles
Published: September 2023

El objetivo de este capítulo es doble. Por un lado, se da a conocer la Biblioteca Virtual de la Filología Española (BVFE), un portal que recoge una gran cantidad de obras lingüísticas relacionadas con el español, a las que proporciona un acceso libre y gratuito. Por otro, se indaga en el componente hispanoamericano de su acervo, con el propósito de recapacitar sobre lo que ya se ha hecho y sobre lo que queda por hacer. The aim of this chapter is twofold. First, a presentation will be given of the Biblioteca Virtual de la Filología Española (BVFE), a portal that gathers numerous linguistic works on the Spanish language and provides free and open access to them. Secondly, it will examine the Latin American component of its heritage, with a view to reflecting on what has already been done and what remains to be done.
The C-ORAL-BRASIL proposal for the treatment of multimodal corpora data: the BGEST corpus pilot project
Authors: Barros Camila , Mello Heliana
Published: September 2023

Due to major technological advances, multimodal data treatment and compilation is a thriving possibility in Linguistics and provides new insights about the interplay of the sound signal and its corresponding gestuality in multimodal spontaneously produced data of how speech and gestures couple. This chapter discusses methodological issues associated with multimodal data compilation and treatment, especially regarding the crucial role of action. The main objective was to connect information structure organization, as it is treated through the Language into Act Theory – L-AcT (Cresti, 2000; Cresti & Moneglia, 2010; Moneglia & Raso, 2014), with the concept of spatio-motoric packaging as found in Kita & Özyürek (2003). The novelty of this methodological proposal stems from the crucial role prosody plays in the definitional categories found in L-AcT and its impact on the interpretation of gestures. The BGEST corpus, a pilot study within the C-ORAL-BRASIL research initiative, is presented as the basis of the discussion carried. Debido a los principales avances tecnológicos, la recopilación y el tratamiento de datos multimodales es una posibilidad animadora para brindar nuevas perspectivas sobre la interacción de la señal sonora con la gestualidad en datos multimodales producidos espontáneamente de cómo se acoplan el habla y los gestos. Este capítulo discute cuestiones metodológicas asociados con la recopilación y el tratamiento de datos multimodales, especialmente con respecto al papel crucial de la acción. El objetivo principal fue conectar la organización de la estructura de la información, tal como abordada a través de la Teoría de la lengua en Acto (Cresti, 2000; Cresti & Moneglia, 2010; Moneglia & Raso, 2014), con el concepto de empaquetado espacio-motor encontrado en Kita y Özyürek (2003). La novedad de esta propuesta sucede del papel crucial que la prosodia desempeña en las categorías informacionales de la L-AcT y su impacto en la interpretación de los gestos. El corpus BGEST, un estudio piloto dentro del grupo de investigación C-ORAL-BRASIL, es presentado como base para la discusión realizada.
Las tecnologías del lenguaje y las lenguas indígenas mexicanas: constitución de un corpus paralelo amuzgo-español
Authors: Reyes Pérez Antonio , Zúñiga H Antonio García
Published: September 2023

En este artículo se describen las particularidades de la construcción del primer corpus paralelo amuzgo-español, el cual representa una fuente de datos reales para la investigación lingüística, particularmente, así como para el desarrollo de recursos y herramientas para lenguas escasamente representadas e, incluso, en peligro de extinción. Los procesos llevados a cabo durante la constitución del corpus se detallan de acuerdo con las siguientes fases: i) obtención de datos en la lengua mediante entrevistas realizadas en trabajo de campo, ii) transcripción de las entrevistas; iii) procesamiento de la señal sonora en PRAAT para realizar análisis espectrográficos; iv) creación de glosas y traducción al español; v) alineación semiautomática de traducciones a partir de la correspondencia lingüística entre lenguas. Finalmente, se muestra el resultado de la implementación del corpus en una plataforma web para la consulta pública. In this article, a collaborative project to build the first parallel corpus Amuzgo-Spanish is described. The goal of this project is to provide a source with data collected from colloquial speech in Amuzgo (glossed and translated into Spanish) for research, as well as for the development of tools for scarce resources languages. The processes carried out to compile the corpus are described according to the following phases: i) data collection in Amuzgo by means of linguistic fieldwork; ii) data transcription; iii) acoustic data processing with Praat to carry out spectrographic analysis; iv) glossing and translating data into Spanish; v) semiautomatic alignment of translations. Finally, an open access tool is presented because of the corpus release.