bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Descriptive temporal sensory properties and volatile composition of Pinot noir wines produced with contrasting alcoholic fermentation temperatures and cap management regimes
Authors: Stoffel Emily S. , Robertson Taylor M. , Catania Anibal A. , Castro Luis F. , Casassa L. Federico
Published: January 2024

Pinot noir is rapidly becoming a winemaking staple in the Central Coast of California. Therefore, it is important to understand how factors such as fermentation temperature and cap management affect the chemical and sensory impact of such wines. Herein, Pinot noir wines were made with three contrasting alcoholic fermentation temperature regimes (Cold, Cold/Hot, Hot) and combined factorially with two cap management regimes (with or without punch downs). The impact of these factors on colour, aroma, and the temporal retronasal aroma and mouthfeel profile was assessed by a trained sensory panel (n = 13) using descriptive analysis (DA) and time-intensity (TI), respectively. Combining a hot fermentation temperature and no punch downs led to wines with higher colour saturation and purple hue. In contrast, wines fermented at cold fermentation temperatures with no punch downs showed reduction aromas. In terms of individual main effects, wines fermented at cold temperatures had more orthonasal aroma, while wines fermented at hot temperatures had higher astringency. To understand the relationship between selected volatile aromas and perceived sensory results, a partial least square regression (PLSR) was conducted. PLSR indicated that cold fermentation temperature wines with punch downs were associated with esters, including ethyl hexanoate and ethyl heptanoate, as well as β-damascenone, which aligned with sensory results. The effect of salivary flow rate on the temporal sensory profile post-expectoration was also analysed. Low salivary flow rate panellists perceived both astringency and length significantly later and more intensely than high salivary flow rate panellists. However, the time of maximum intensity was perceived significantly later for high salivary flow rate panellists. Overall, fermentation temperature had a more significant impact on the sensory and volatile composition of Pinot noir wines than the cap management regime. However, cap management still appeared to affect sensory and volatile chemistry results through significant interactions. Therefore, the relationship between fermentation temperature and cap management was not straightforward from avolatile chemistry or sensory perspective. The importance of accounting for salivary flow rate in panellists when using time-based sensory analysis was also highlighted.
Analysis of Unsatisfied Readers’ Requests as a Way to Manage the Quality of Library Collections Formation (on the example of SPSTL SB RAS)
Authors: Vikhreva G. M. , Fedotova O. P. , Bakhtejeva T. V.
Published: January 2024

One of the most effective ways to study the library activity success is to work with unsatisfied readers’ requests to receive information corresponding to the library profile. The article contains material obtained in the course of research activities within the framework of the scientific project, which assumes, in particular, the study of the level of users’ satisfaction with the quality of collections. Therefore, the purpose of the article is to present the results of the analysis of the current situation with unsatisfied requests in the departments of the State Scientific Technological Library of SB RAS, its impact on the quality of the library collections and reader service, on decisionmaking to improve working activities. In the course of work, the authors used scientific methods of analysis and generalization both of theoretical elaborations and library statistical data. The analysis of refusals over the past five years has allowed us to formulate a number of problems leading to the emergence of unsatisfied readers’ requests. The revealed considerable changes both in the organizational and functional structures of the library and the technology of servicing readers have led to decentralization of the process of work with unsatisfied requests thus negatively influencing its coordination and effectiveness. The basic stated reasons are deterioration of information resources and imperfection of reference apparatus. Special consideration deserves the situation within the categories of priority for the scientific library: proceeding from the received data, refusals to them made 34 % from the total amount of unsatisfied requests. The authors suppose that the conclusions drawn on the results of the study, though being the upper “cut off” the problem of unsatisfied requests, are an objectively necessary basis for optimizing the processes of stack formation and servicing readers of SPSTL SB RAS.
On the Principle of Scientific Objectivity, “Incorrect Analysis and Interpretation of Statistical Data” and the New Librarianship: a Reply to the Critical Response of E. A. Pleshkevich
Authors: Stepanov V. K.
Published: January 2024

This article is the author’s answer to the critical response of E. A. Pleshkevich on an article devoted to reducing the quantity of libraries in the Moscow region. Reasoned answers are given to the opponent’s three key objections. The point of view on the initial cause of the crisis in librarianship, which is the transfer of information flows to the digital sphere, is confirmed and specified. E. A. Pleshkevich’s understanding of the nature of the library as a public institution designed to guide reading is refuted. In response to the criticism of “incorrect analysis and interpretation of statistical data reflecting library construction in the Moscow region,” additional statistics are provided that irrefutably prove the absolute priority of the Moscow region in the liquidation of libraries throughout the Russian Federation. In response to the accusation of a biased assessment of the situation in the Moscow region, in which model libraries are being opened and various projects with big names are being implemented, it is pointed out that the most powerful indicator of the real state of affairs is the closure of 151 public libraries in the region from 2018 to 2022. Optimization through liquidation gives grounds for the conclusion that library reform in the Moscow region has completely failed.
Measuring Absorbed Energy in the Human Auditory System Using Finite Element Models: A Comparison with Experimental Results
Authors: Castro-Egler Cristina , Garcia-Gonzalez Antonio , Aguilera-Garcia Jose , Cerezo Pablo Moreno , Gonzalez-Herrera Antonio , Lopez-Crespo Pablo
Published: January 2024

There are different ways to analyse energy absorbance (EA) in the human auditory system. In previous research, we developed a complete finite element model (FEM) of the human auditory system. In this mentioned work, the external auditory canal (EAC), middle ear, and inner ear (spiral cochlea, vestibule, and semi-circular canals) were modelled based on human temporal bone histological sections. Multiple acoustic, structure and fluid-coupled analyses were conducted using the FEM to perform harmonic analyses in the 0.1–10 kHz range. Once the FEM had been validated with published experimental data, the FEM numerical results were used to calculate the EA or energy reflected (ER) by the tympanic membrane. This EA was also measured in clinical audiology tests which were used as a diagnostic parameter. A mathematical approach was developed to calculate the EA and ER, with numerical and experimental results showing adequate correlation up to 1 kHz. Another published FEM had adapted its boundary conditions to replicate experimental results. Here, we recalculated those numerical results by applying the natural boundary conditions of human hearing and found that the results almost totally agreed with our FEM. This boundary problem is frequent and problematic in experimental hearing test protocols: the more invasive they are, the more the results are affected. One of the main objectives of using FEMs is to explore how the experimental test conditions influence the results. Further work will still be required to uncover the relationship between the middle ear structure and EA to clarify how to best use FEMs. Moreover, the FEM boundary conditions must be more representative in future work to ensure their adequate interpretation.
Quintessential Water from Cosmic Dust: A Possible Origin of Dark Matter, Dark Energy, and Life in the Universe
Authors: Johnson Keith Huber
Published: January 2024

The creation of protonated water nanoclusters from amorphous water-ice under laboratory conditions suggests the possible ejection of such nanoclusters from ubiquitous amorphous water-ice-covered cosmic dust to interstellar space. The quantum properties of these quintessential water entities introduce a tantalizing prospect that bridges the origins of dark matter, dark energy, and life in the universe. The quantum-entangled diffuse Rydberg electronic states inherent to cosmic water nanoclusters make them plausible candidates for baryonic dark matter. Moreover, they exhibit the capacity to absorb, through the microscopic dynamical Casimir effect, virtual photons originating from zero-point-energy vacuum fluctuations occurring above the water-nanocluster vibrational frequency cutoff. This selective interaction leaves only vacuum fluctuations below these frequencies with gravitational significance, cancelling the vacuum-energy catastrophe and yielding a shared genesis for dark matter and dark energy. Moreover, this theory extends its implications to the origins of life itself, proposing that RNA protocells on Earth and habitable exoplanets may have emerged from the interactions between cosmic water nanoclusters and prebiotic organic molecules, thus yielding an anthropic narrative. Collectively, these findings coalesce into a cosmological framework depicting a cyclic universe, with cosmic water nanoclusters constituting a quintessence scalar field, instead of adhering to the multiverse concept based on cosmic inflation theory. Recent observations of CMB birefringence support this quintessence.
Progressive Age-Associated Blood Brain Barrier Leak/Dysfunction- Nexus of Neurodegenerative Disease Using MRI Markers to Identify Preclinical Disease and Potential New targets for Future Treatments
Authors: Joseph Charles
Published: January 2024

This review article focuses on the upstream pertinent pathophysiology leading to neurodegenerative disease. Specifically, the nexus appears to be blood brain barrier (BBB) leakiness resulting in a two-prong inflammatory disease spectrum damaging the microvasculature and corrupted protein synthesis and degradation with accumulating misfolded toxic proteins. The suboptimal results of removing misfolded proteins means a new approach to disease in the preclinical state is required aimed at other targets.Validated noninvasive imaging and serologic biomarkers of early preclinical disease implemented in the high-risk patient cohort along with periodic surveillance once effective treatments are developed will be required.This review discusses the physiology and pathophysiology of the BBB, new MRI imaging techniques identifying the leak and altered fluid dynamic effects in the preclinical state. The risk factors for disease development, preventative measures, and potential treatment targets are also discussed.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid Modulates Transient Receptor Potential V1 Expression on Specific Brain Areas in a Mouse Fibromyalgia Pain Model
Authors: Liao Hsien-Yin , Yen Chia-Ming , Hsiao I-Han , Hsu Hsin-Cheng , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: January 2024

Pain is unpleasant sensory and emotional experience accompanied by tissue injury. Often an indi-vidual experience, it can be influenced by different physiological, psychological, and social factors. Fibromyalgia, one of the most difficult-to-treat types of pain, is characterized by general muscle pain accompanied by obesity, fatigue, sleep, and memory and psychological concerns. Fibromyal-gia has increased nociceptive sensations via central sensitization in the brain and spinal cord level. We used intermittent cold stress to create a mouse fibromyalgia pain model (Day 0: 3.69  0.14 g; Day 5: 2.13  0.12 g). Mechanical pain could be reversed by eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) admin-istration (Day 0: 3.72  0.14 g; Day 5: 3.69  0.13 g). A similar trend could be also observed for thermal hyperalgesia. The levels of elements in the transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1) sig-naling pathway were increased in the ascending pain pathway, including the thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex, somatosensory cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. EPA intake significantly attenuated this overexpression. Novel chemogenetics method was used to indeed in-hibit SSC to ACC activity presented an analgesic effect through TRPV1 downstream pathway. The present results provide insights as to the role of TRPV1 signaling pathway as in fibromyalgia and its potential as a clinical target.
COVID-19 Vaccine Coverage and Factors Associated with Vaccine Hesitancy: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the City of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Akilimali Pierre Z , Egbende Landry , Kayembe Dynah M , Kabasubabo Francis , Kazenza Benito , Botomba Steve , Tran Nguyen Toan , Mashinda Désiré Kulimba
Published: January 2024

: Background: Vaccination against COVID-19 has been the main strategy used by most countries to limit the spread of the virus. However, vaccine uptake has been low in Africa, leading to the implementation of several interventions in order to improve vaccine coverage. This study was conducted due to the lack of information about COVID-19 vaccine coverage and the factors associated with vaccine hesitancy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Kinshasa city using multi-stage random sampling. A total of 2160 households were included in the study. The data were analyzed using Stata 15 software. The means and standard deviations were calculated for normally distributed continuous variables, while proportions with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for categorical variables. Pearson’s chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used to test the associations between dependent variables and each independent variable. Logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with hesitancy receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. Results: The majority of respondents were aged between 25 and 34 and 35 and 49 (28.9%). During this study, 15% (95% CI [13.25–17.9]) of respondents had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Among the reasons given for refusing to be vaccinated, most respondents cited concerns about the vaccine being unsafe or causing adverse reactions (45%). Among the reasons given for accepting the vaccine, 26% thought that the vaccine prevented superinfection. The factors associated with hesitancy toward the COVID-19 vaccine were female gender, an age of less than 35 years, and living in non-slum households. Conclusions: Despite the interventions implemented across the country, the reluctance to be vaccinated remains a problem; this could lead to poor health outcomes, especially among the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. It is important to step up awareness-raising campaigns in the community in order to increase the uptake of vaccination.
The Role of Tau Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome
Authors: Granholm Ann-Charlotte E , Hamlett Eric D.
Published: January 2024

. The Tau protein is associated with microtubule function in the neuron and is crucial for normal axonal transport. In several different neurodegenerative disorders, Tau misfolding leads to hyper-phosphorylation (p-Tau) and intracellular p-Tau aggregates known as neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). This is particularly evident in individuals with Down syndrome (DS), who develop Alzheimer’s disease-like (AD) neuropathology early in life with almost complete penetrance, associated with the development of dementia symptoms in their 40s or 50s. Our previous findings have shown that certain forms of p-Tau are present already in childhood in individuals with DS in neuron-derived exosomes, suggesting an early phosphorylation profile in this population that could influence the development of AD pathology. Misfolded p-Tau isoforms are known to be seeding competent and may be responsible for spreading AD pathology in different regions of the brain. This review is focused on the accumulation of p-Tau in the brain of individuals with DS and potential consequences for brain function.
Inertial Propulsion Devices: A Review
Authors: Provatidis Christopher G.
Published: January 2024

The use of the Google Scholar produces about 278 hits on the term ‘‘inertial propulsion.’’ If patents are also included, the number of hits increases to 536. This paper discusses, in a critical way, some characteristic aspects of this controversial topic. The review starts with the halteres of athletes in the Olympic games of ancient times and then continues with some typical devices which were developed or/and patented from the second fourth of the twentieth century till today.
Inhibition of the Microbicidal Activity of Canine Macrophages DH82 Cell Line by Capsular Polysaccharides from Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: LaRocque-de-Freitas Isabel Ferreira , Da Silva-Junior Elias Barbosa , Gemieski Leticia Paixão , Lima Beatriz da Silva Dias , Vivarini Aislan de Carvalho , Lopes Ulisses G. , Freire-de-Lima Leonardo , Morrot Alexandre , Previato Jose Osvaldo , Mendonça-Previato Lucia , Pinto-da-Silva Lucia Helena , Freire-de-Lima Celio Geraldo , Decote-Ricardo Debora
Published: January 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungus that mainly affects the respiratory system and the central nervous system. One of the main virulence factors is the capsule, constituted by the polysaccharides glucuronoxylomannan (GXM) and glucuronoxylomanogalactan (GXMGal). Polysaccharides are immunomodulators. One of the target cell populations for modulation are macrophages, part of the first line of defense, important for innate and adaptive immunity. It has been reported that macrophages can be modulated to act as a "Trojan horse" taking phagocytosed yeasts to strategic sites or having their machinery activation compromised. The scarcity of information on canine cryptococcosis led us to assess whether the purified capsular polysaccharides from C. neoformans would be able to modulate the microbicidal action of macrophages. In the present study, we observed that the capsular polysaccharides, GXM, GXMGal or capsule total did not present toxic effects for the DH82 macrophage cell line. However, it was possible to demonstrate that phagocytic activity was decreased after treatment with polysaccharides. In addition, yeasts recovered from macrophages treated with the polysaccharides, after phagocytosis, could be cultured, showing that their viability was not altered. The polysaccharides led to a reduction in ROS production and the expression of IL-12 and IL-6. We observed that GXMGal inhibits MHC class II expression and GXM reduces ERK phosphorylation. In contrast, GXMGal and GXM were able to increase the PPAR- expression. Furthermore, our data suggests that capsular polysaccharides can reduce the microbicidal activity of canine macrophages DH82.
The Enigma of the ʹSmokerʹs Paradoxʹ: Results from a Single‐Center Registry of Patients with STEMI Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Paradossi Umberto , De Caterina Alberto Ranieri , Trimarchi Giancarlo , Dossi Filippo , Raccis Mario , Bianchi Giacomo , Palmieri Cataldo , De Gregorio Cesare , Andò Giuseppe , Berti Sergio
Published: January 2024

Smoker’s paradox usually refers to the common observation of a favourable outcome of smoker patients in acute myocardial infarction. The interpretation of this phenomenon is still controversial and not fully explained. We aimed at assessing whether smoking could be associated with mortality in a large cohort of prospectively enrolled patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) referred to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). From April 2006 to December 2018 a population of 2456 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI were prospectively enrolled in the MATRIX registry. Ischemic time, clinical, demographics, angiographic data and 1-year follow-up were collected. Among 2546 patients admitted with STEMI 1007 (41%) were current smokers. Smokers were 10 years younger and had lower crude in-hospital and 1-year mortality (1.5% vs 6%, p<0.0001 and 5% vs 11%, p<0.0001), shorter ischemic time (203 [147-299] vs 220 [154-334] minutes, p=0.002) and shorter decision time (60 [30-135] vs 70 [36-170] minutes, p=0.0063). After propensity-matching, age, cardiogenic shock and low TIMI score were associated with in-hospital mortality, while smoking habit was still associated with reduced mortality. Smoking was also associated with reduced death rate at 1-year follow-up (HR 0.54, 95% CI [0.37 - 0.78]; p<0.001). Our data show a protective link between smoking status and mortality in patients with STEMI, the so called “smoker’s paradox”. This could be explained not only by the shorter ischemic time and younger age of the smoking population but also by a specific pathogenetic effect of smoking underlying the onset of STEMI and response to therapies.
Solid Waste Management Practice and Landfill Suitability the Case of Sendafa Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Bedane Sintayehu Legesse
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to assess the solid waste management status and practice in Sendafa town, Oromia regional state residents. In order to achieve this goal, the researcher intends to employ both primary and secondary data from the Sendafa town municipality. With the aid of multi-cluster sampling and a purposive sampling method, the researchers chose a sample size of 398 people and 10 interview responders. To utilize a systematic sampling technique at intervals of residences, individual samples were chosen. Quantitative data was cleaned and analysed using STATA software. A multiple linear regression model and logistic regression other descriptive statistics methods were then used to change the results. The qualitative data were imported, coded, and thematised using ATLAS.ti.9 in order to prepare respondents' interviews for analysis. The findings indicate that residents' poor solid waste management practices are a result of a lack of awareness, low family income transportation issues, issues with waste collectors, a lack of a sense of responsibility and belonging, and a failure to enforce current solid waste management laws. Solid waste accumulates near roads, bridges, and residential areas that are close to landfills, contaminating the area and leading to diseases like TB and Asthma (and other related health issues in children and adults who live there). Thus, researcher recommends that to have sustainable solid waste management the town administrators should have plan to develop awareness creation symposium or panel of discussion, resolve transportation issues, monitor and guide the routine activities of waste collectors, develop sense of belongingness for themselves and for the community, develop integrated solid waste land fill projects and working with all stakeholders like NGO and health institution will minimize the adverse effect of improper solid waste management.

Keywords: Solid Waste, Status of Solid Waste Management, Land fill site suitability
Updated Guidelines for Resuscitation, Stabilization and Res-piratory Distress Syndrome Early Management in Extremely Preterm Infants–Impact on Outcomes
Authors: Cucerea Manuela , Simon Marta , Anciuc-Crauciuc Mădălina , Marian Raluca , Rusneac Monika , Ognean Maria Livia
Published: January 2024

Background: Survival and outcome of extremely preterm (EP) infants have improved due to changes in the management of stabilization at birth and respiratory distress syndrome. Methods: In a retrospective study conducted at an academic perinatal level III center in Romania, we compared the effects of different protocols on the early outcomes of EP infants of two different periods (2008-2012 vs. 2018 vs. 2022). Two subgroups were studied in each period, based on gestational age (GA), 22-25 weeks, and 26-28 weeks, excluding those with significant congenital anomalies or missing data. Results: 270 EP infants were included in the study (121/149), with a mean GA 26.1±1.6/26.7±1.1 weeks. Significant improvements were found during period II regarding initial FiO2 (40% vs. 100%; <0.001), nCPAP (55.7% vs. 19.0%; p<0.001) at birth, early rescue surfactant administration (65.8% vs. 34.7%; p<0.001), need of mechanical ventilation (58.4% vs. 98.3%; p<0.001). Survival rates of EP infants significantly improved from 41.3% to 72.5%, particularly in the 26-28 weeks subgroup (63.8% to 83%). The frequency of severe IVH decreased in period II from 30.6% to 14.1%, while the rates of BPD were lower in period II (23.4% vs. 36.6%; p=0.045), in the 26-28 weeks subgroup. We found improvements but no significant differences in NEC, sepsis, PVL, ROP, or PDA frequencies. Conclusions: Using updated guidelines and protocols is crucial for improving outcomes.
Is Chest Tube Omission Safe for Patients with Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax Scheduled for VATS?
Authors: Kim Chang Wan , Park Il Hwan , Byun Chun Sung
Published: January 2024

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a pleural disease that abruptly affects healthy adolescents and young adults, representing a common thoracic disorder in this age group. This study aimed to investigate the necessity of preoperative chest tube insertion in patients with PSP and to re-evaluate current clinical treatment approaches. A retrospective review of medical records was conducted for children and young adults aged 14–30 years, diagnosed with PSP and who underwent Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) between January 2016 and December 2022 at Wonju Severance Christian Hospital. Patients were retrospectively divided into two groups based on their initial treatment: chest tube insertion and non-chest tube insertion. Clinical data including demographics, treatment details, and outcomes were collected and compared. Total 128 cases of PSP were included in the study. The total length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the non-chest tube group (p=0.000), which was attributed to the omission of pre-operative chest tube insertions. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of postoperative complications or recurrence rates. In cases of young patients with PSP, omitting pre-operative chest tube insertion may be a viable option if the patient is scheduled for VATS.
The Growth of Neuroblastoma Cells in 2D or 3D Depends on the Expression of Cathepsin D: Implication for the Metastatic Process
Authors: Secomandi Eleonora , Esposito Andrea , Camurani Giulia , Vidoni Chiara , Salwa Amreen , Vallino Letizia , Ferraresi Alessandra , Isidoro Ciro
Published: January 2024

Neuroblastoma is an embryonal tumor arising from the sympathetic central nervous system. The epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a role in neuroblastoma growth and metastatic behavior. Recently, we have demonstrated that cathepsin D (CD) contrasts EGF-induced neuroblastoma cell growth in 2D by downregulating EGFR/MAPK signaling. Aggressive NB is highly metastatic to the bone and the brain. In the metastatic process, adherent cells detach to form clusters of suspended cells that once reached the metastatic site adhere and form secondary colonies. Whether CD involves in survival of metastatic NB clones is not known. Therefore, in this study we addressed how CD differentially affects cell growth in suspension versus adherent condition. To mimic tumor heterogeneity, we co-cultured transgenic clones silenced for or overexpressing CD. We compared the growth kinetics of such mixed clones in 2D and 3D models in response to EGF, and we found that Over CD clone was advantaged for the growth in suspension, while the CD knocked-down clone was favored for the adherent growth as 2D. The fact that CD plays a dual role in cancer cell growth in 2D and 3D conditions indicates that during clonal evolution subclones expressing different level of CD may arise, which confers survival and growth advantages depending on the metastatic step. Whether CD involves in survival of metastatic NB clones is not known. We propose that epigenetic regulation of CD expression could be an additional strategy to prevent NB metastases.
Two Sides of the Same Virtual Coin: Investigating Psychosocial Effects of Video Game Play, Including Stress Relief Motivations as a Gateway to Problematic Video Game Usage
Authors: Farmer George , Lloyd Joanne
Published: January 2024

Video gamers can play to negate the psychological impact of stress (Pine et al., 2020), which may become problematic when users over-rely on the stress-relief potential of gaming. This study used a repeated-measures experimental design to investigate the relationships between stress, video gaming, and problematic video gaming behaviours in a convenience sample of 40 students at a UK university. Results indicated that positive affect increased and negative affect decreased, whilst a biological stress measure (Instantaneous Pulse Rate) also decreased after a short video gaming session (t(36) = 4.82, p < .001, d = 0.79). Results also suggest that video gaming can act as a short-term buffer against the physiological impact of stress. Further research should focus on testing individuals who have been tested for Gaming Disorder as opposed to a general population. Research could also utilise variations of the methodological framework used in this study to examine the intensity of a stress-relief effect under different social situations. The study’s findings in relation to published work are also discussed.
Dynamics of Mitochondrial Proteome and Acetylome in Glioblastoma Cells with Contrasting Metabolic Phenotypes
Authors: Fernández-Coto Diana Lashidua , Gil Jeovanis , Ayala Guadalupe , Encarnación-Guevara Sergio
Published: January 2024

Glioblastoma is a central nervous system cancer type with a poor prognosis. One of its main features is the constant change of metabolism phenotype to support its development and progression. Mitochondria play a critical role in cellular metabolism. Acetylation on lysine residues of mitochondrial enzymes is a mechanism for regulating protein function. This modification negatively affects the mitochondrial proteome function and is counteracted by the enzyme sirtuin 3 (SIRT3). To better understand how SIRT3 regulates mitochondrial metabolism, we inhibited SIRT3 and examined by high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis the proteome and acetylome of two glioblastoma cell lines with different metabolic preferences. Our results indicate that protein synthesis machinery is regulated by lysine acetylation and plays a role in the metabolic phenotype. We also identified new SIRT3 targets not previously associated with specific functions, highlighting their potential as future targets for further study. This study shed light on the role of SIRT3 in mitochondria and its implication for cellular metabolism. We have generated knowledge at the proteome and acetylome levels on the dynamics between two glioblastoma cell lines with opposing metabolic phenotypes. Our results might guide in searching for biomarkers at both proteome and acetylome levels in glioblastoma.
Pointing on the Other Side: Do Dogs Follow Contralateral Points?
Authors: Lyn Heidi , West Katie , Villegas Joclyn , Bass Christopher , Baker Steven
Published: January 2024

The study of dog point following has been increasingly popular, at least partially due to the initial claims that dogs outperform apes and the suggestion that our domestication process caused dogs to have a biological capacity to communicate with humans. We take the view that dog pointing is more complicated than was initially reported, and in this study, we explore several potential variables that may make a difference. Our variables include point type (ipsilateral (same-side) vs contralateral (cross-body) points), position (standing vs seated), and distance (proximal vs distal). We find that most dogs follow ipsilateral points while less than half of the dogs in our sample follow contralateral points, and that position and distance also affect dogs’ success. We suggest that dogs acquire ipsilateral points via associative mechanisms, but that contralateral points require the dogs to understand the humans’ communicative intent.
The Effect of Training of Lady Health Workers to Enhance Family Planning Services: A Longitudinal Analysis for Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Momina Ain ul , Ahmad Taimoor , Shahzad Sara , Ahmad Fayaz
Published: January 2024

Background: Delivery of quality family planning services depends on availability of skilled health care providers, which is often a challenge in Low- and middle-income countries. This study evaluates the effects of a targeted training program on family planning services delivered by the Lady Health Workers (LHWs) in six districts of Punjab, Pakistan. The primary goal was to enhance the quality and accessibility of family planning services, recognizing the pivotal role of LHWs in community health. Methods: Using a robust panel data difference-in-differences (DiD) approach, we analyzed the electronic medical records (EMR) of 1,410 LHWs over a nine-month period. This timeframe in-cluded both pre-training (July to December 2022) and post-training (April to June 2023) phases. Our assessment focused on the impact of training on five outcome variables: the number of follow-up clients, the number of Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) clients, the number of condom clients, the number of modern method clients, and the number of injection clients. We also con-sidered control variables such as LHW age, LHW education, the number of eligible couples in each LHW's catchment area, and a categorical variable for the districts. Results: The positive and statistically significant (p<0.05) coefficients across various service cat-egories – Follow Up Clients [Coeff: 1.00, CI: (0.30 - 1.70)], IUCD Clients [Coeff: 0.23, CI: (-0.01 - 0.46)], Condom Clients [Coeff: 1.41, CI: (0.97 – 1.86)], Modern Method Clients [Coeff: 1.82, CI: (0.96 – 2.68)], and Injection Clients [Coeff: 0.32, CI: (0.14 – 0.50)]. These findings indicate enhanced productivity among LHWs who have received training, with results significant at the 95% con-fidence interval (CI). Conclusion: The study highlights the effectiveness of targeted training programs in boosting family planning services at the community level and offers insightful implications for policy-makers and health practitioners. While focused on six districts in Punjab, these promising results emphasize the need for ongoing training and support for frontline health workers to bolster family planning initiatives.
Cytokine Storm Fatal Acute Kidney Infection Triggered by COVID-19 (SARS CoV-2) Infection: A Review
Authors: Regassa Hailemeleak , Gudeta Kasahun , Bhagat Ankeet , Chaturvedi Rachna
Published: January 2024

Acute kidney infection (AKI) occurred by tubular necrosis and glomerular dysfunction caused by many factors. SARS CoV-2 infection identified to cause fatal AKI. This paper aims to review the effect of covid-19 infection on the failure of the kidney and its mechanism. It identified that the SARS-CoV-2 received by the targeted cell by Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). After the virus received by the target cells, it induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-1, and interferons (IFN) by immune cells and causes cytokine storm. The pro-inflammatory cytokines are again responsible to induce the secretion of cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2), which causes inflammation and pain as well it stimulates the iNOS enzyme to produce NO which allows the vasodilation of renal arteries. The increased production of NO by iNO enhanced the vasodilation of arteries, and allows the adhesion of neutrophils to the artery, and causes damage to glomerulus and tubules. Hence, the most likely sustainable intervention could be the application of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) inhibition by the receptors of the target cells in these vital organs to reduce sever destruction during treatment at the early stage of infection.
Enhancing Traffic Prediction Accuracy: A Comparative Analysis of Data Quality and Model Evaluation Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Maniat Mohammad , Eebrahimzadeh Amin
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on predicting traffic speed using the simple Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) model, despite the availability of various models for traffic prediction, with artificial intelligence demonstrating superior predictive capabilities. Emphasizing that the quality of the data holds greater significance than the model itself, the research underscores the challenges posed by data containing significant errors and fluctuations. Unlike relying solely on criteria such as Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD) or coefficient of determination (r2), this study advocates for the use of MAD/range as a more robust metric for prediction accuracy, especially when dealing with data exhibiting substantial order.The study sets the speed limit and traffic value at 0.65 and 0.88, respectively. Notably, both criteria yield identical accuracy results of 13% for MAD/R in predicting speed and 14% for traffic. This parity suggests that the artificial intelligence model performs equally well for both variables, highlighting the importance of considering alternative evaluation metrics in the face of data complexities.
Types of Cell Death and Their Relations to Host Immunological Pathways
Authors: Hu Wan-Chung
Published: January 2024

Host immunological pathways have been proposed including TH1, TH2, TH3, TH9, TH17, TH22, TH1-like, and THαβ immune reactions. Besides TH2 and TH9 immune responses which are against multicellular parasites, host immunological pathways against viruses, intracellular micro-organisms (bacteria, protozoa, and fungi), and extracellular micro-organisms can use programmed cell death pathways to trigger immune reactions or to execute effective strategies to eliminate these pathogens. These programmed cell deaths include apoptosis, autophagic death, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and NETosis. Apoptosis is related to host anti-virus eradicable THαβ immunity. Autophagic death is related to host anti-virus tolerable TH3 immunity. Pyroptosis is related to host anti-intracellular micro-organism eradicable TH1 immunity. Ferroptosis is related to host anti-intracellular micro-organism tolerable TH1-like immunity. Necroptosis is related to host anti-extracellular micro-organism eradicable TH22 immunity. NETosis is related to host anti-extracellular micro-organism tolerable TH17 immunity.
Whipple Disease Presenting as Isolated Transverse Myelitis in a Girl with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report of a Difficult Diagnosis with Literature Review
Authors: Saffioti Carolina , Nebiolo Marta , Caorsi Roberta , Mesini Alessio , Severino Mariasavina , Brisca Giacomo , Castagnola Elio , Gattorno Marco
Published: January 2024

we describe an atypical case of Whipple disease involving exclusively the spinal cord in an adolescent receiving immunosuppressive therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus. The diagnosis was particularly difficult since lupus and Whipple disease can present similar clinical features and the patient’s prolonged contact with sewage was initially not mentioned. A literature review of the clinical, imaging, diagnostic, and therapeutic challenges of Whipple disease is also performed.
Real-World Data Analysis of Patients Affected by Acquired Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Italy
Authors: Angelucci Emanuele , Artoni Andrea , Fianchi Luana , Dovizio Melania , Iacolare Biagio , Saragoni Stefania , Esposti Luca Degli
Published: January 2024

The therapeutic management of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) has recently benefited from the introduction of caplacizumab, an agent directed to inhibition of platelet aggregation. This real-world analysis investigated the epidemiology, the demographic and clinical characteristics of aTTP patients in Italy before and after caplacizumab introduction in 2020. Hospitalized adults with aTTP were included using the administrative databases of healthcare entities covering 17 million residents. Epidemiological estimates of aTTP considered the 3-year period before and after caplacizumab introduction. After stratification by treatment or not with caplacizumab, aTTP patients were characterized for their demographic and clinical features. The annual incidence before and after 2020 was estimated in the range 4.3-5.8 cases/million and 3.6-4.6/million, respectively. From 2018 to 2022, 393 patients with aTTP were included, 42 of them treated with caplacizumab. Caplacizumab-treated patients were aged on average 46.8 years, 31% were males, and showed tendentially better clinical outcomes: no treated patients died at either 1 month or 3 months after caplacizumab treatment initiation, compared to 10.5% (1 month) and 11.1% (3 months) mortality among the untreated. Caplacizumab treatment was associated with a trend towards shorter hospital stays. These findings suggest that caplacizumab advent provided clinical and survival benefits for patients with aTTP.
Effects of PM10 Airborne Particles from Different Regions and Seasons of a Megacity on In-Vitro Secretion of Cytokines by a Monocyte Line.
Authors: Meraz - Cruz Noemi , Manzano-León Natalia , Sandoval-Colin Daniel Eduardo , García de León-Mendez Maria del Carmen , Quintana Raúl , Sevilla Laura , Osornio Alvaro R. , Buxton Miatta A. , S. O´Neill Marie , Vadillo-Ortega Felipe
Published: January 2024

Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that particulate matter (PM) in air pollution can be involved in the genesis or aggravation of different cardiovascular, respiratory, perinatal, and cancer diseases. This study assessed the in vitro effects of PM <10 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM10) on the secretion of cytokines by a human monocytic cell line (THP-1). We compared the chemotactic, pro-inflammatory, and anti-inflammatory cytokines induced by PM10 collected for two years during three different seasons in five different Mexico City locations. MIP-1α, IP-10, MCP-1, TNF-α, and VEGF were the main secretion products after stimulation with 80 μg/mL of PM10 for 24 hours. The THP-1 cells showed a differential response to PM10 obtained in the different sites of Mexico City. The PM10 from the north and the central city areas induced a higher pro-inflammatory cytokine response than those from the south. Seasonal pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion always exceeded the anti-inflammatory one. The rainy season-derived particles caused the lowest pro-inflammatory effects. We concluded that toxicological assessment of airborne particles provides evidence supporting their potential role in chronic exacerbation of local or systemic inflammatory responses that may worsen the evolution of some chronic diseases.
The Changing Ecology of a High Himalayan Valley: The Case of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Eastern Nepal
Authors: Byers Alton C. , Shrestha Milan , Zackary Burditt Andrew , Byers Elizabeth A. , Coburn Broughton , Watanabe Teiji , Chand Mohan B.
Published: January 2024

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) is a high mountain protected area in eastern Nepal undergoing socio-economic and environmental changes that are unprecedented in the region’s history. In the following paper, we discuss recent changes involving new road construction, climate change, adventure tourism, and the wildlife/forest cover/medicinal plant sectors. Our assessments are based on the collective results of past and recent field research, remote sensing analysis, oral histories, and literature reviews. While similar changes are occurring in mountain protected areas (MPA) throughout Nepal, it is suggested that the KCA differs from other regions in that it still retains the option of conducting detailed feasibility, environmental, and impact assessments prior to the implementation of major change-associated projects, particularly the construction of roads. In turn, the KCA might avoid many of the environmental, social, and economic problems experienced elsewhere in Nepal, while enhancing its status, income-generating capacities, and sustainability as a global destination for adventure, nature, and cultural tourism.
Memanfaatkan Sampah Plastik Menggunakan Metode Ecobrick sebagai Solusi untuk Mengurangi Limbah Plastik
Authors: Matsuri Matsuri , Widianto Atmojo Idam Ragil , Chumdari Chumdari , Adi Fadhil Purnama , Ardiansyah Roy , Saputri Dwi Yuniasih
Published: January 2024

Plastic waste is a serious problem in Indonesia because plastic cannot be decomposed naturally and can have a negative impact on the environment and public health. Then the 3R principle is applied, namely Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. This socialization activity will focus on the principle of Recycle (recycling) through ecobrick in the village of Shoulder RT 04 RW 07 Jati, Jaten District, Karanganyar Regency. Ecobrick itself is a creative effort to manage plastic waste into useful objects that have use value and sale value, reducing pollution and toxins caused by plastic waste. Making ecobrick does not require special skills and only requires a lot of money because it uses household waste plastic as the main material. The purpose of holding the socialization in Pundak Village RT 04 RW 07, Jati, Jaten District, Karanganyar Regency is to overcome plastic waste and provide an understanding of how to recycle plastic waste using the ecobrick method. The methods used in this ecobrick socialization are questionnaires, lectures, and demonstrations. The result of this socialization is a decrease in the amount of untreated plastic waste which is related to the greater awareness of residents in the Village of Pundak RT 04 RW 07, Jati, Jaten District, Karanganyar Regency in waste management.
Pemetaan UMKM Batu Bata Desa Srimulyo Melalui Pendataan dan Digitalisasi Berbasis Sistem Informasi Geografis
Authors: Siswanto Budi , Pamungkas Pramudya Wahyu , Prihatno Agus , Safinatunnaja Sari , Saputra Reza Kurniawan , Putri Windy Cahya , Adz Zahra Dian Eka Febriyanti , Aji Mulia Muhammad Dias , Mushaffa Annisa Shafia , Thomas Matthew Alexender , Henriques Silveria
Published: January 2024

One form of service activity in Real Work Lectures (KKN) is by collecting data and digitizing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Village. Therefore, research was carried out to optimize the dissemination of information regarding the distribution of brick MSMEs in Srimulyo Village. With this data on the distribution of MSMEs, it is hoped that it will make it easier and faster for people to make decisions by providing map visualizations. The steps for data collection and brick mapping begin with preparing data collection materials in the form of dividing data collection areas to speed up data collection. After that, data collection was carried out on MSMEs by direct observation in the field to find out the distribution points of brick craftsmen. After the data was collected, the data was then summarized and processed using Adobe Illustrator software to obtain an image or map of the distribution of brick production MSMEs in Srimulyo Village. Brick-producing MSMEs in Srimulyo Village are spread across approximately 300 locations in 15 hamlets and 34 Rukun Tangga (RT). The bricks produced by Srimulyo Village are known to have good long-lasting quality because they are made from a mixture of rice fields and alluvial soil, so the products are well known and sold outside Solo Raya.