bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efeito de um flavorizante sobre o consumo de água e desempenho de leitões pós-desmame
Authors: Luna Fabrina de Sousa , Moraes Elenice Andrade , Carvalho Debora Cristine de Oliveira , Jacob David Vanni , Eskinazi Simon , Carvalho Illa Carla Santos , Domingos Rodrigo de Lima , Pereira Thainara Sawia Barbosa , Brito Sara Kauane de , Martins Larissa Tayna Silva , Miranda Afonso Luna , Gonçalves Mateus Ferreira , Silva Bruno Alexander Nunes
Published: March 2023

O estudo avaliou a adição de um flavorizante comercial na água de consumo de leitões, sobre ingestão de água e desempenho durante o período pós-desmame. Foram utilizados 60 leitões, distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos casualizados, compreendendo dois tratamentos: sem e com a adição de um flavorizante comercial - 100 g/ 1000L de inclusão, com 10 repetições por tratamento, cada repetição com três animais. Os parâmetros calculados foram: consumo médio de água por animal, consumo total diário de água, consumo médio diário de ração, consumo total de ração, consumo médio de ração, ganho de peso diário, ganho de peso médio diário, ganho de peso total, conversão alimentar, eficiência alimentar, e a ocorrência de diarreia. Considerando as fases 1 e 2, verificou-se que a adição do flavorizante na água proporcionou o aumento do consumo médio de água por animal e para o consumo total diário de água. Contudo, não promoveu influência significativa sobre o consumo médio diário de ração, consumo total de ração e para ganho de peso diário. Observou-se uma correlação positiva entre o consumo de água e ração para ambos os tratamentos durante a primeira fase, no entanto, o comportamento inicial na relação entre os consumos ração/água para o tratamento com flavorizante apresentaram médias maiores. Para o ciclo completo, não houve diferença estatística para as variáveis estudadas. As porcentagens da incidência de diarreia não demonstraram diferenças estatísticas.  Logo, a manipulação das características hedônicas da água de consumo por meio da adição do flavorizante é benéfica, proporcionando aumento no consumo de água nas duas primeiras semanas do pós-desmame.
O programa de avaliação da educação básica do Espírito Santo (PAEBES) e a compreensão de um sistema de avaliação externa: Contribuições para o ensino de língua portuguesa na educação básica
Authors: Lorencini Raíssa Rangel , Nunes Marcus Antonius da Costa
Published: March 2023

O presente artigo analisa os dados do Paebes 2021 e 2022 como uma ferramenta que pode contribuir para o ensino de Língua Portuguesa na Educação Básica. Para tanto, foi realizada uma análise estatística com os resultados de uma escola da Rede Pública Estadual do Norte do Estado do Espírito Santo com o objetivo compreender como o programa produz e interpreta seus dados para os resultados da avaliação. Assim, dividimos a nossa a análise nos quesitos: participação, desenho da avaliação e indicadores de desempenho - proficiência média e padrão de desempenho médio, distribuição dos estudantes por padrão de desempenho e percentual de acerto por descritor. Os principais resultados encontrados nas análises do 9° de Ensino Fundamental e 3° do Ensino Médio no ano de 2021 e 2022 corroboram com o campo da eficácia escolar e reiteram o efeito significativo e positivo das avaliações externas, mostrando que o PAEBES vem como uma ferramenta importante para identificar possíveis fragilidades encontradas nas escolas capixabas, bem como apontar caminhos para elaboração e aplicação de intervenções pedagógicas mais assertivas.
Cobertura da vacina poliomielite nos estados e regiões do Brasil no período de 2019 a 2022
Authors: Ferreira Camila Emanuelle da Silva , Rodrigues Aldenora Maria Ximenes
Published: March 2023

Introdução: A Poliomielite foi eliminada no Brasil na década de 90 devido ao sucesso das campanhas de vacinação. Entretanto, o período de pandemia por Covid-19 e os movimentos antivacina se destacam como fatores de alerta ao possível retorno da circulação do vírus causador dessa doença, exigindo um monitoramento contínuo no território. Este estudo objetivou apresentar a cobertura da vacina poliomielite nos estados e regiões do Brasil no período de 2019 a 2022, relacionando com variáveis socioeconômicas, pandemia por Covid-19 e movimentos antivacina. Metodologia: Estudo observacional descritivo, cujos dados foram obtidos do Sistema de Informação do Programa Nacional de Imunizações disponibilizado pelo sistema DATASUS. Resultados: No período estudado nenhum estado alcançou a meta proposta pelo Ministério da Saúde, sendo uns dos motivos não somente a pandemia, mas também a divulgação de notícias falsas e fatores socioeconômicos, como a escolaridade e a renda. Conclusão: Há diferenças importantes na cobertura da dose de reforço da vacina nos anos de 2019-2022, sendo que o baixo percentual apresentado é preocupante, uma vez que a administração da vacina é o que garante a imunidade da criança a longo prazo.
As conexões entre Inteligência Emocional e Liderança Transformacional: um estudo de revisão sistemática
Authors: Lima Erika Marques de Almeida , Coutinho Maria da Penha de Lima , Pinto Adriele Vieira de Lima , Costa Fabrycianne Gonçalves
Published: March 2023

Este artigo objetivou fazer uma revisão sistemática acerca da interligação entre inteligência emocional e liderança transformacional. Quanto ao primeiro construto relacionado ao conceito de liderança transformacional, este pode ser compreendido enquanto a competência do líder em conduzir o engajamento e a motivação de um grupo de pessoas, e por sua adequação para se obter uma transformação cultural com foco na inovação nas empresas. Foram realizadas buscas por artigos indexados nas bases de dados Scielo e MEDLINE/Pubmed, publicados nos últimos 10 anos (2012-2022). Utilizou-se os descritores, “transformational leadership” e “emotional intelligence”, com o buscador booleano AND para unir os termos. Ao final, 6 artigos foram selecionados, seus dados descritos e seus resumos analisados por meio da Classificação Hierárquica Descendente, processados pelo software Alceste. Os resultados evidenciaram que as publicações acerca dos construtos são recentes, datando a partir de 2019. No que tange aos achados, emergiram três classes temáticas: 1) “Tipos de liderança e inteligência emocional no contexto da educação”, 2) “A liderança transformacional como fator mediador para aumento da eficácia de equipes”, e 3) “Inteligência emocional do líder como fator significativo para o desempenho dos funcionários no trabalho”. Nesse sentido, observou-se a escassez de produções sobre a temática em diferentes continentes e realidades, assim como, a necessidade da aplicação de estudos no contexto brasileiro. Dessa forma, considera-se a importância de fomentar pesquisas acerca da inteligência emocional e liderança transformacional, uma vez que estes podem auxiliar no engajamento, motivação e gestão efetiva das emoções próprias nos diferentes setores, equipes e empresas.
Neoplasia maligna e mastectomia: uma abordagem reflexiva do cuidado com pacientes mastectomizadas
Authors: Frazão Luiz Felipe Neves , Dechichi Kamila Giovana Lacerda Villas Bôas , Schwerz Junior Pedro , Rodrigues Lucas Ribeiro , Schwerz Renata Cristina Gontijo , Mariano Ester Emanuela , Justi Maria Fernanda Pierozan , Helbingen Vitor Xavier , Barros Ana Laura Souza de , Silva Hamir Gonçalves da , Ribeiro Ana Maria Cabral , Monte Lizandra Karoline Silva do
Published: March 2023

O objetivo desta revisão é expor os principais conceitos do câncer de mama e da mastectomia. E como objetivos secundários, apontar as consequências na qualidade de vida das pacientes mastectomizadas. O presente estudo trata-se de uma revisão narrativa, na pesquisa sobre a mastectomia e os efeitos dessa abordagem terapêutica sobre a vida de pacientes oncológicas. Objetivando expor produções científicas e reconstruir conceitos e linhas de pensamentos, articulando saberes de diversos trabalhos conceituados. Foi realizada uma pesquisa de artigos nas bases de dados Medical Literature Analysis and Retrievel System Online (MEDLINE), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) e PubMed, com os seguintes Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS): Cirurgia Oncológica; Mastectomia Parcial; Mastectomia Total; Neoplasia Maligna; Paciente Oncológico. Selecionando artigos entre os períodos de 2006 a 2023. É totalmente comprovado pela literatura que, a mastectomia, muda a vida de pacientes oncológicos submetidos ao procedimento. Complicações pós-operatório são relatas frequentemente em todos os estudos acerca da cirurgia, tais como: dores crônicas, fibrose, contratura capsular e, sobretudo, mudanças sociais e relações acerca da autoestima. Existe a possibilidade de realizar o procedimento e, logo em seguida, realizar a reconstrução mamária. Beneficiando a vida das pacientes, como o resgate das afeições femininas, sentimento de feminilidade e integridade corporal, além de diminuir os impactos das alterações físicas.  Dessa forma, entende-se a necessidade de mais produções cientificas relacionadas à reconstrução mamária logo o câncer de mama, visto os benefícios e auxílio assistência dessas mulheres.
Pracovná spokojnosť s vybranými atribútmi personálnych aktivít v miestnej štátnej správe na Slovensku
Authors:   Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Bernátová Dominika , Kravčáková Gabriela
Published: March 2023

Job satisfaction can generally be understood as a person's attitude towards his work. It affects the relationship to work, work behaviour and, while respecting other determining factors, affects the employee's performance. The impact of personnel procedures on job satisfaction has been an area of research for a long time. The study aims to determine the degree of job satisfaction of civil servants with selected attributes of personnel activities (remuneration, education, qualification development and evaluation) according to socio-demographic variables (gender, job position, location of the district office). The goal was also to find out and analyse the existence of statistical differences between socio-demographic variables and selected attributes of personnel activities. An author's questionnaire on civil servants' satisfaction with the attributes of personnel activities was used to obtain empirical data. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The highest level of job satisfaction among civil servants at district offices in the Slovak Republic was found with performance appraisal and the lowest with financial remuneration and career growth opportunities. The existence of statistically significant differences was identified with all sociodemographic variables. The most differences were found according to the location of the district office
Racial/Ethnic Bias and Its Role in Severe Maternal Morbidity
Authors: Levine Elliot M. , Delfinado Leah , Fernandez Carlos M.
Published: March 2023

Racial and ethnic health disparities have been identified by many information sources in recent years, and a specific example of this is severe maternal morbidity and mortality, which includes mortality from postpartum hemorrhage. It is this racial/ethnic health disparity that has been highlighted in news reports that should be of concern to all physicians and healthcare providers, recognizing that women of color have more than three times the risk of dying in childbirth than white women. The details about this are worthy of further examination.
Supplementation of high-quality fresh forage to lambs fed a total mixed ration increased in vitro ruminal fermentation and digestibility
Authors: Pérez-Ruchel Analía , Repetto José Luis , Cajarville Cecilia
Published: March 2023

The supplementation of fresh alfalfa into the diet of growing lambs fed with decreasing levels of a total mixed ration (TMR) was studied for its effect on in vitro ruminal fermentation activity. Twenty-four catheterized lambs [25.2 ± 3.67 kg body weight (BW)] were assigned to one of the following treatments: “TMR100”—TMR ad libitum; “TMR75’” and “TMR50”—TMR at 0.75 and 0.50 of potential intake, respectively, supplemented with alfalfa; and ‘TMR0’—only alfalfa ad libitum. In vitro gas production kinetics and true digestibility (IVTD) were evaluated using the rumen liquid as inocula. Ruminal pH values and NH3-N and volatile fatty acid concentrations were studied at the same time as inocula extraction. As the amount of alfalfa in the diet increased—by decreasing the level of TMR—in vitro gas production, ruminal pH values, NH3-N concentrations, and acetic acid proportions linearly increased (p = 0.005, 0.008, 0.004, and 0.018, respectively). IVTD tended to linearly rise (p = 0.083) and the fermentation rate (p = 0.004) and propionic acid proportion (p< 0.001) linearly decreased. We conclude that the increase in the level of fresh alfalfa resulting from the decrease in TMR levels in lambs’ diet positively impacted rumen fermentation activity and in vitro digestibility through the promotion of a suitable environment for ruminal microbiota.
Bi-objective optimization of nutrient intake and performance of broiler chickens using Gaussian process regression and genetic algorithm
Authors: Ahmadi Hamed , Rodehutscord Markus , Siegert Wolfgang
Published: March 2023

This study investigated whether quantifying the trade-off between the maxima of two response traits increases the accuracy of diet formulation. To achieve this, average daily weight gain (ADG) and gain:feed ratio (G:F) responses of 7–21-day-old broiler chickens to the dietary supply of three nutrients (intake of digestible glycine equivalents, digestible threonine, and total choline) were modeled using a newly developed hybrid machine learning-based method of Gaussian process regression and genetic algorithm. The dataset comprised 90 data lines. Model-fit-criteria indicated a high model adjustment and no prediction bias of the models. The bi-objective optimization scenarios through Pareto front revealed the trade-off between maximized ADG and maximized G:F and provided information on the needed input of the three nutrients that interact with each other to achieve the trade-off scenarios. The trade-off scenarios followed a nonlinear pattern. This indicated that choosing target values intermediate to maximized ADG and G:F after single-objective optimization is less accurate than feed formulation after quantifying the trade-off. In conclusion, knowledge of the trade-off between maximized ADG and maximized G:F and the needed nutrient inputs will help feed formulators to optimize their feed with a more holistic approach.
Role of the intrinsic subtalar ligaments in subtalar instability and consequences for clinical practice
Authors: Michels Frederick , Vereecke Evie , Matricali Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Subtalar instability (STI) is a disabling complication after an acute lateral ankle sprain and remains a challenging problem. The pathophysiology is difficult to understand. Especially the relative contribution of the intrinsic subtalar ligaments in the stability of the subtalar joint is still controversial. Diagnosis is difficult because of the overlapping clinical signs with talocrural instability and the absence of a reliable diagnostic reference test. This often results in misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Recent research offers new insights in the pathophysiology of subtalar instability and the importance of the intrinsic subtalar ligaments. Recent publications clarify the local anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the subtalar ligaments. The cervical ligament and interosseous talocalcaneal ligament seem to play an important function in the normal kinematics and stability of the subtalar joint. In addition to the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), these ligaments seem to have an important role in the pathomechanics of subtalar instability (STI). These new insights have an impact on the approach to STI in clinical practice. Diagnosis of STI can be performed be performed by a step-by-step approach to raise the suspicion to STI. This approach consists of clinical signs, abnormalities of the subtalar ligaments on MRI and intraoperative evaluation. Surgical treatment should address all the aspects of the instability and focus on a restoration of the normal anatomical and biomechanical properties. Besides a low threshold to reconstruct the CFL, a reconstruction of the subtalar ligaments should be considered in complex cases of instability. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive update of the current literature focused on the contribution of the different ligaments in the stability of the subtalar joint. This review aims to introduce the more recent findings in the earlier hypotheses on normal kinesiology, pathophysiology and relation with talocrural instability. The consequences of this improved understanding of pathophysiology on patient identification, treatment and future research are described.
Ezrin expression in female reproductive tissues: A review of regulation and pathophysiological implications
Authors: Xu Wen-Ting , Shi Ling-Li , Xu Jie , Qian Haiqing , Zhou Huifang , Wang Li-Hong
Published: March 2023

Ezrin, a plasma membrane-microfilament linker, is a cytoskeletal organizer involved in many cellular activities by binding to the membrane protein-ezrin-cytoskeletal protein complex and regulating downstream signal transduction. Increasing evidence demonstrates that ezrin plays an important role in regulating cell polarity, proliferation and invasion. In this study, we analyzed the effects of ezrin on oocytes, follicle development, embryo development and embryo implantation. We reviewed the recent studies on the modalities of ezrin regulation and its involvement in the biological processes of female reproductive physiology and summarized the current research advances in ezrin inhibitors. These studies will provide new strategies and insights for the treatment of diseases.
Development of prognostic nomogram model to predict syncope recurrence in children with vasovagal syncope
Authors: Sun Rui , Kang Yingying , Zhang Mingming , Wang Hongmao , Shi Lin , Li Xiaohui
Published: March 2023

Backgrounds

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a common form of syncope. In children with VVS, recurrent syncope or presyncope can affect the physical and mental health of both children and parents, which markedly impairs quality of life.

Objectives

We aimed to identify factors at baseline that can predict the recurrence of syncope or presyncope over a 5-year follow-up period, and further to develop a prognostic nomogram model.

Methods

This cohort is bidirectional in design. From July 2017 to August 2022, children with VVS were included and followed up every 3 to 6 months. Head-up Tilt Test (HUTT) was performed for diagnosing VVS. Data were analyzed using STATA software, and risk estimates are presented as hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Total 352 children with VVS who had complete information were included in this study. Median follow-up time was 22 months. Overall, supine mean arterial pressure (MAP-supine) in HUTT and baseline urine specific gravity (USG) were associated with the significant risk of syncope or presyncope recurrence (HR: 0.70 and 3.00, respectively; both P < 0.05). Calibration and discrimination analyses revealed that the addition of MAP-supine and USG can result in a better fit. A prognostic nomogram model based on significant factors annexed with five traditional promising factors was finally constructed, with strong discriminative and predictive abilities (C-index approaching 0.700, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that MAP-supine and USG can independently predict the significant risk of syncope recurrence in children with VVS, and the prediction was more obvious in a nomogram model.
Role of junctional epithelium in maintaining dento-gingival adhesion and periodontal health
Authors: Theodoro Letícia Helena , Garcia Valdir Gouveia , Ervolino Edilson , Holcroft James , McCulloch Christopher A. , Ganss Bernhard
Published: March 2023

The dento-gingival junction comprises multiple epithelia including the junctional epithelium (JE), which is the most coronally-located structural element of the dento-gingival junction that demarcates external from internal periodontal environments. After tooth eruption into the oral cavity, a specialized basal lamina is formed that provides a firm attachment of the JE to the enamel. This attachment prevents microbial species and oral debris from entering subjacent periodontal tissues. Here we discuss the expression of certain JE adhesion molecules and enamel proteins that maintain the health of the dento-gingival junction but that are perturbed in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. We also consider how evolutionary processes have influenced the development of the JE as a specialized adhesion that is well-suited for protection of the dento-gingival junction. A detailed understanding of the biology of the JE will deepen current models of dento-gingival adhesion, potentially clarify inter-patient variability of susceptibility to periodontitis and help to identify new roles of enamel proteins in periodontal regeneration.
Indigenous stewardship of coastal resources in native California
Authors: Sanchez Gabriel M. , Grone Michael , Apodaca Alec
Published: March 2023

Indigenous people have profoundly influenced terrestrial and marine ecosystems by modifying coastal habitats to increase the productivity of target species and altering local biotas through their harvesting practices. In some cases, these actions led to local resource depression, while in other instances, Indigenous people engaged with terrestrial and marine resources in sustainable ways, increasing the resilience of ecosystems. In this paper, we interrogate human-environmental relationships that span the last ∼7,000 years of Indigenous engagement with coastal resources on the central California coast. Through a historical ecological framework, we assess how Indigenous peoples interacted with terrestrial and marine ecosystems differently across space and through time. In the Middle Holocene, the region’s archaeology is typified by mobile populations using diverse terrestrial and marine resources. By the Late Holocene, Indigenous peoples intensified their economies towards a limited number of marine and terrestrial species. During this time, Indigenous people initiated sustained fire management practices that created habitat mosaics still reflected in the contemporary landscape. In the Late Holocene, people also developed resource harvesting strategies for California mussels and forage fishes geared towards long-term productivity.
Geological characteristics and exploration potential of the coal measure gas from Shan 2 of the Shanxi formation in the eastern Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhao Wei-Bo , Zhang Hui , Shi Yun-He , Fu Xun-Xun , Hui Jie , Jing Xue-Yuan
Published: March 2023

“Coal measure gas,” excluding tight (low-permeability) sandstone gas, refers in this study to the self-sourcing unconventional natural gas stored in coal, shale, and fine siltstone. It is characterized by various types of occurrences and reservoirs, a distinct cyclic succession of coal measure strata, widely distributed mosaic hydrocarbon accumulations, three types of coal measure gas accumulations, and configurations of vertically multiple-stacked gas-bearing reservoirs. Coal measure gas from Shan 2 can be divided—according to the grain size of sandstone, configurations of sandstone–coal–mudstone association, thickness, and layers—into four types: thick massive sandstone–coal–mudstone (type I), fine siltstone–coal–mudstone (type II), thin sandstone–mudstone–sandstone (type III), and coal–mudstone (type IV). Comprehensive evaluation suggests that the coal measure gas in the Suide-Mizhi area of the southern Ordos Basin presents an important and favorable accumulation option, characterized by coalbed methane, shale gas, and tight gas stored in sandstone–mudstone–coal strata. Therefore, it is essential to conduct full future assessments for the coal beds, shale, and tight gas controlling exploration for the “vertical gas-bearing zone” by three-dimensional exploration.
Comprehensive analysis of the biological functions of endoplasmic reticulum stress in prostate cancer
Authors: Cen Shengren , Jiang Dongmei , Lv Daojun , Xu Ran , Hou Jiamao , Yang Zixiang , Wu Peng , Xiong Xinhao , Gao Xingcheng
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) has sizeable affect on cancer proliferation, metastasis, immunotherapy and chemoradiotherapy resistance. However, the effect of ERS on the biochemical recurrence (BCR) of prostate cancer patients remains elusive. Here, we generated an ERS-related genes risk signature to evaluate the physiological function of ERS in PCa with BCR.

Methods

We collected the ERS-related genes from the GeneCards. The edgeR package was used to screen the differential ERS-related genes in PCa from TCGA datasets. ERS-related gene risk signature was then established using LASSO and multivariate Cox regression models and validated by GEO data sets. Nomogram was developed to assess BCR-free survival possibility. Meanwhile, the correlations between ERS-related signature, gene mutations, drug sensitivity and tumor microenvironment were also investigated.

Results

We obtained an ERS risk signature consisting of five genes (AFP, COL10A1, DNAJB1, EGF and PTGS2). Kaplan Meier survival analysis and ROC Curve analysis indicated that the high risk score of ERS-related gene signature was associated with poor BCR-free prognosis in PCa patients. Besides, immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint expression levels differed between high- and low-risk scoring subgroups. Moreover, drug sensitivity analyzed indicated that high-risk score group may be involved in apoptosis pathway.

Discussion

This study comprehensively analyzed the characteristics of ERS related genes in PCa, and created a five-gene signature, which could effectively predict the BCR time of PCa patients. Targeting ERS related genes and pathways may provide potential guidance for the treatment of PCa.
Leptin/adiponectin ratio as a prognostic factor for increased weight gain in girls with central precocious puberty
Authors: Zurita-Cruz Jessie Nallely , Villasís-Keever Miguel Angel , Manuel-Apolinar Leticia , Damasio-Santana Leticia , Garrido-Magaña Eulalia , Rivera-Hernández Aleida de Jesús
Published: March 2023

Objective

To determine if the leptin, adiponectin, and leptin/adiponectin ratio (LAR) can predict weight gain at the end of GnRH analogs (GnRHa) treatment in girls with central precocious puberty (CPP).

Material and methods

Study design: prospective cohort. Serum levels of leptin and adiponectin were determined at diagnosis of CPP. Anthropometry was performed at diagnosis of CPP and every six-months, until treatment with GnRHa was discontinued and they presented menarche. Patients were divided according to BMI<94 and BMI>95 percentile at diagnosis of CPP. The outcome was the increased in weight gain (e.g., from normal weight to overweight) at the end of follow-up. Statistical analysis: repeated measures ANOVA test and Student’s t-test were used to compare groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association of leptin and adiponectin levels, as well as LAR values with increased weight gain.

Results

Fifty-six CPP patients were studied, 18 had BMI >95 percentile and 38 BMI <94 percentile. Of the 18 patients who initially had BMI >95th, two patients went from obesity to overweight, while among the 38 patients who started with BMI <94th, 21 (55.2%) increased their weight gain at the end of follow-up. This last group had higher leptin levels (8.99 ± 0.6 vs 6.14 ± 0.8, p=0.005) and higher LAR values compared to those who remained in the same weight (1.3 ± 0.5 vs 0.96 ± 0.56, p=0.01). In the logistic regression analysis, it was found that higher leptin levels and higher LAR values were associated with increased weight gain (RR 1.31, 95%CI 1.03-1.66, RR 4.86, 95%CI 1.10-21.51, respectively), regardless of birth weight, pubertal stage, age, and bone/chronological age ratio.

Conclusions

In patients with CPP, leptin levels and higher LAR values appear to be associated with significantly greater weight gain during GhRHa treatment, particularly in girls starting with BMI < 94 percentile.
Association between hemoglobin glycation index and diabetic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus in China: A cross- sectional inpatient study
Authors: Xin Sixu , Zhao Xin , Ding Jiaxiang , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate the association between Hemoglobin Glycation Index (HGI) and Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) in Chinese type 2 diabetic individuals and to construct a risk score based on HGI to predict a person’s risk of DKD.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 1622 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). HGI was obtained by calculating the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level into the formula, and they were grouped into low HGI group (L-HGI), medium HGI group (H-HGI) and high HGI group (H-HGI) according to tri-sectional quantile of HGI. The occurrence of DKD was analyzed in patients with different levels of HGI. Multivariate logistics regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of DKD in patients with T2DM.

Results

A total of 1622 patients with T2DM were enrolled in the study. Among them, 390 cases were DKD. The prevalence of DKD among the three groups was 16.6%, 24.2% and 31.3%. The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.000). There were significant differences in age (P=0.033), T2DM duration (P=0.005), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (P=0.003), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (P=0.000), FPG (P=0.032), 2-hour postprandial plasma glucose (2h-PPG) (P=0.000), fasting C-peptide FCP (P=0.000), 2-hour postprandial C-peptide (2h-CP) (P=0.000), total cholesterol (TC) (P=0.003), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P=0.000), serum creatinine (sCr) (P=0.001), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (P=0.000) among the three groups. Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test showed that there was a linear relationship between HGI and DKD (x2=177.469, p < 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis showed that with the increase of HGI level the prevalence of DKD was increasing (R= 0.445, P=0.000). It was indicated by univariate logistic regression analysis that individuals in H-HGI was more likely to develop DKD (OR: 2.283, 95% CI: 1.708~ 3.052) when compared with L-HGI. Adjusted to multiple factors, this trend still remained significant (OR: 2.660, 95% CI: 1.935~ 3.657). The combined DKD risk score based on HGI resulted in an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.702.

Conclusions

High HGI is associated with an increased risk of DKD. DKD risk score may be used as one of the risk predictors of DKD in type 2 diabetic population.
Biomarkers identification in follicular fluid of women with OHSS by using UPLC-MS method
Authors: Wu Ze , Fang Lanlan , Liu Boqun , Jia Qiongqiong , Cheng Jung-Chien , Sun Ying-Pu
Published: March 2023

To figure out the differentially changed metabolites and disturbed pathways in follicular fluid (FF) of patients with OHSS in comparison to the control group undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), we conducted this metabolomic analysis between two groups, the OHSS group included 30 patients treated with oocyte retrieval and developed OHSS in the next 7-14 days, while another 30 patients without OHSS tendency were selected as the control group. The FF samples were obtained during the process of oocyte retrieval. FF samples were analyzed using ultra-high liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). The results identified a total of 59 differentially changed metabolites, including 33 decreased metabolites (P < 0.01) and 26 increased metabolites (P < 0.01) in FF of OHSS compared with the control group. 12 metabolites could be the most valuable biomarkers for OHSS based on ROC results. Our correlation analyses showed that deoxyinosine levels were found positively correlated with serum estradiol (E2) levels in OHSS patients, while L-isoleucine, pyruvic acid, maleamate, and arachidonic acid were found to be positively correlated with the number of retrieved oocytes. Furthermore, 4-hydroxyphenylacetaldehyde, deoxycorticosterone, creatinine, and creatine were found to be negatively associated with serum E2 levels, while 4-hydroxyphenylacetaldehyde, L-carnitine, isovaleric acid and L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid were negatively related with the number of oocytes retrieved in OHSS patients. Taken together, our study provides better identification of OHSS FF metabolic dynamics, suggesting the metabolic compounds can be used as valuable predictors or treatment targets of OHSS.
Association between different metabolic phenotypes and the development of hypothyroidism: 9 years follow-up of Tehran thyroid study
Authors: Abiri Behnaz , Ahmadi Amirhossein Ramezani , Mahdavi Maryam , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Amouzegar Atieh , Valizadeh Majid
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The association between metabolic phenotypes and thyroid function has not yet been established; therefore, this study examined whether different metabolic phenotypes are associated with the development of hypothyroidism.

Methods

Study participants were selected from the Tehran Thyroid Study (TTS). A total of 3338 euthyroid adults were included and categorized into four obesity phenotype groups: metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), metabolically healthy obese (MHO), metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW), and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). The participants were assessed at baseline and during three follow-up studies at three-year intervals. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between metabolic phenotypes and the development of hypothyroidism.

Results

In the total population, the chi-square test was only significant (P=0.008) in 3rd year with a higher prevalence of hypothyroidism in the MUNW phenotype, followed by MHO, MUO, and MHNW. Moreover, in the 3rd and 9th years of follow-up, hypothyroidism was more prevalent in MUO only in male subjects (P=0.002 and 0.035, respectively). In the unadjusted model, the MHO phenotype increased the odds of hypothyroidism compared with the MHNW phenotype (OR=1.51; 95% CI=1.04, 2.18; P-value=0.031). After adjusting for confounding factors, the odds of hypothyroidism were higher in the MUNW (OR=1.86; 95% CI=1.17, 2.96; P-value=0.008), MHO (OR=1.71; 95% CI=1.09, 2.67; P-value=0.018), and MUO (OR=1.64; 95% CI=1.03, 2.62; P-value=0.036) phenotypes than in the MHNW group. The MUNW phenotype increased the risk of hypothyroidism compared to MHNW, only in males. However, in females, the MHO phenotype increased the risk of hypothyroidism compared to MHNW.

Conclusion

Both obesity and metabolic abnormalities are associated with hyperthyroidism. Healthy metabolic and weight maintenance were associated with a lower risk of hypothyroidism in males and females.
Engineering exsolved catalysts for CO2 conversion
Authors: Ali Swali A. , Safi Manzoor , Merkouri Loukia-Pantzechroula , Soodi Sanaz , Iakovidis Andreas , Duyar Melis S. , Neagu Dragos , Reina Tomas Ramirez , Kousi Kalliopi
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Innovating technologies to efficiently reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emission or covert it into useful products has never been more crucial in light of the urgent need to transition to a net-zero economy by 2050. The design of efficient catalysts that can make the above a viable solution is of essence. Many noble metal catalysts already display high activity, but are usually expensive. Thus, alternative methods for their production are necessary to ensure more efficient use of noble metals.

Methods: Exsolution has been shown to be an approach to produce strained nanoparticles, stable against agglomeration while displaying enhanced activity. Here we explore the effect of a low level of substitution of Ni into a Rh based A-site deficienttitanate aiming to investigate the formation of more efficient, low loading noblemetal catalysts.

Results: We find that with the addition of Ni in a Rh based titanate exsolution is increased by up to ∼4 times in terms of particle population which in turn results in up to 50% increase in its catalytic activity for CO2 conversion.

Discussion: We show that this design principle not only fulfills a major research need in the conversion of CO2 but also provides a step-change advancement in the design and synthesis of tandem catalysts by the formation of distinct catalytically active sites.
How asymmetric mating patterns affect the rate of neutral genetic substitution
Authors: Belanger Emma , Seard Aisha , Hoang Aysha , Tran Amanda , Antonio Lorhena Guimaraes , Dementieva Yulia A. , Sample Christine , Allen Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Introduction

A population under neutral drift is expected to accumulate genetic substitutions at a fixed “molecular clock” rate over time. If the population is well-mixed, a classic result equates the rate of substitution per generation to the probability of mutation per birth. However, this substitution rate can be altered if individual birth and death rates vary by class or by spatial location.

Methods

Here we investigate how mating patterns affect the rate of neutral genetic substitution in a diploid, sexually reproducing population. We employ a general mathematical modeling framework that allows for arbitrary mating pattern and spatial structure.

Results

We demonstrate that if survival rates and mating opportunities vary systematically across individuals, the rate of neutral substitution can be either accelerated or slowed. In particular, this can occur in populations with uneven sex ratio at birth, or with reproductive skew.

Discussion

Our results suggest that estimates of the rate of neutral substitution, in species with uneven sex ratio and/or reproductive skew, may need to take asymmetries in mating opportunity and survival into account.
Valuing ecosystem services applying indigenous perspectives from a global biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Balasubramanian M. , Sangha Kamaljit K.
Published: March 2023

Estimating the value of ecosystem services (ES) helps inform policies, development programs, and promote sustainable use and management of forest resources. The Western Ghats—a global biodiversity hotspot in southern India—contribute significantly to the well-being of Indigenous and local communities (IPLCs) by providing a range of ES. In this paper, we aim to assess the value of ES from the Western Ghats, applying IPLCs perspectives, to inform policy decision-making for understanding their role in people’s well-being. We estimate the value of ES applying various monetary (e.g., direct cost using production function) and non-monetary (e.g., revealed preferences using replacement or travel cost) valuation methods. The main ES include provisioning services—Non-Timber Forest Products and water; regulating services—soil erosion prevention and carbon sequestration; and cultural services. The estimated economic value of ES, at US$ 612 million (2021 values), suggests that conserving Ghat’s ecosystems is vital for supporting tribal peoples’ well-being, delivering ES to the mainstream population, and for protecting biodiversity. To date, lack of such understanding has often led to development programs that largely omit natural resources and tribal well-being connections. This study can inform future policies by offering a better and in-depth understanding of the role of ES in supporting Indigenous well-being, and underlines Ghat’s economic importance for non-marketable values which are often ignored for policy decision-making. Understanding these values will help the policy-makers to integrate the role of ES in policy planning, and design suitable development and conservation programs that protect a diverse range of ecosystems in the Western Ghats and elsewhere as well as support the sustainable living of many IPLCs/Adivasi communities across the globe.
Empirical evidence of type III functional responses and why it remains rare
Authors: Kalinkat Gregor , Rall Björn C. , Uiterwaal Stella F. , Uszko Wojciech
Published: March 2023

More than 70 years after its introduction, the framework of resource density-dependent consumption rates, also known as predator-prey functional responses, remains a core concept in population and food web ecology. Initially, three types of responses were defined: linear (type I), hyperbolic (type II), and sigmoid (type III). Due to its potential to stabilize consumer-resource population dynamics, the sigmoid type III functional response immediately became a “holy grail” in population ecology. However, experimentally proving that type III functional responses exist, whether in controlled laboratory systems or in nature, was challenging. While theoretical and practical advances make identifying type III responses easier today, decades of research have brought only a limited number of studies that provide empirical evidence for type III response curves. Here, we review this evidence from laboratory- and field-based studies published during the last two decades. We found 107 studies that reported type III responses, but these studies ranged across various taxa, interaction types, and ecosystems. To put these studies into context, we also discuss the various biological mechanisms that may lead to the emergence of type III responses. We summarize how three different and mutually independent intricacies bedevil the empirical documentation of type III responses: (1) challenges in statistical modeling of functional responses, (2) inadequate resource density ranges and spacing, and (3) biologically meaningful and realistic design of experimental arenas. Finally, we provide guidelines on how the field should move forward based on these considerations.
Association between ACTN3 R577x and the physical performance of Chinese 13 to 15-year-old elite and sub-elite football players at different positions
Authors: Yang Shidong , Lin Wentao , Jia Mengmeng , Chen Haichun
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of ACTN3 polymorphisms in Chinese elite and sub-elite football players aged 13–15 years at different positions. Specifically we explored whether ACTN3 genotypes were linked with athletic performance of elite and sub-elite players at different positions. The RR genotype frequency of elite defenders (p = 0.018) and midfielders (p = 0.008) was significantly higher than that of sub-elite XX genotype in elite players. Furthermore, the R allele frequency of elite defenders (p = 0.003) and midfielders (p = 0.008) was significantly higher than that of sub-elite players. In all subjects, RR players performed faster and exhibited more explosive power than RX or XX players. RR, RX and XX elite players’ 20 m/30 m sprint, 5 × 25-m repeated sprint ability (5 × 25 m RSA), and standing long jump were stronger than sub-elite players, but there was no significant different in aerobic endurance between elite and sub-elite players at different positions. In conclusion, there were significant differences in ACTN3 genotypes and alleles between elite and sub-elite players at different positions, and the RR genotype was significantly associated with power-related athletic performance in Chinese youth football players.
Maintenance of genome integrity by the late-acting cytoplasmic iron-sulfur assembly (CIA) complex
Authors: Petronek M. S. , Allen B. G.
Published: March 2023

Iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters are unique, redox-active co-factors ubiquitous throughout cellular metabolism. Fe-S cluster synthesis, trafficking, and coordination result from highly coordinated, evolutionarily conserved biosynthetic processes. The initial Fe-S cluster synthesis occurs within the mitochondria; however, the maturation of Fe-S clusters culminating in their ultimate insertion into appropriate cytosolic/nuclear proteins is coordinated by a late-acting cytosolic iron-sulfur assembly (CIA) complex in the cytosol. Several nuclear proteins involved in DNA replication and repair interact with the CIA complex and contain Fe-S clusters necessary for proper enzymatic activity. Moreover, it is currently hypothesized that the late-acting CIA complex regulates the maintenance of genome integrity and is an integral feature of DNA metabolism. This review describes the late-acting CIA complex and several [4Fe-4S] DNA metabolic enzymes associated with maintaining genome stability.
Gut and airway microbiota dysbiosis and their role in COVID-19 and long-COVID
Authors: Ancona Giuseppe , Alagna Laura , Alteri Claudia , Palomba Emanuele , Tonizzo Anna , Pastena Andrea , Muscatello Antonio , Gori Andrea , Bandera Alessandra
Published: March 2023

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health and disease. Gut dysbiosis is known to be associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases and modifications in the immune response and homeostasis of the lungs (the so-called gut-lung axis). Furthermore, recent studies have highlighted the possible role of dysbiosis in neurological disturbances, introducing the notion of the “gut-brain axis.” During the last 2 years, several studies have described the presence of gut dysbiosis during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its relationship with disease severity, SARS-CoV-2 gastrointestinal replication, and immune inflammation. Moreover, the possible persistence of gut dysbiosis after disease resolution may be linked to long-COVID syndrome and particularly to its neurological manifestations. We reviewed recent evidence on the association between dysbiosis and COVID-19, investigating the possible epidemiologic confounding factors like age, location, sex, sample size, the severity of disease, comorbidities, therapy, and vaccination status on gut and airway microbial dysbiosis in selected studies on both COVID-19 and long-COVID. Moreover, we analyzed the confounding factors strictly related to microbiota, specifically diet investigation and previous use of antibiotics/probiotics, and the methodology used to study the microbiota (α- and β-diversity parameters and relative abundance tools). Of note, only a few studies focused on longitudinal analyses, especially for long-term observation in long-COVID. Lastly, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the role of microbiota transplantation and other therapeutic approaches and their possible impact on disease progression and severity. Preliminary data seem to suggest that gut and airway dysbiosis might play a role in COVID-19 and in long-COVID neurological symptoms. Indeed, the development and interpretation of these data could have important implications for future preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Extracellular vesicles and their cells of origin: Open issues in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Haghighitalab Azadeh , Dominici Massimo , Matin Maryam M. , Shekari Faezeh , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid , Lim Rebecca , Ahmadiankia Naghmeh , Mirahmadi Mahdi , Bahrami Ahmad Reza , Bidkhori Hamid Reza
Published: March 2023

The conventional therapeutic approaches to treat autoimmune diseases through suppressing the immune system, such as steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are not adequately practical. Moreover, these regimens are associated with considerable complications. Designing tolerogenic therapeutic strategies based on stem cells, immune cells, and their extracellular vesicles (EVs) seems to open a promising path to managing autoimmune diseases’ vast burden. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), dendritic cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) are the main cell types applied to restore a tolerogenic immune status; MSCs play a more beneficial role due to their amenable properties and extensive cross-talks with different immune cells. With existing concerns about the employment of cells, new cell-free therapeutic paradigms, such as EV-based therapies, are gaining attention in this field. Additionally, EVs’ unique properties have made them to be known as smart immunomodulators and are considered as a potential substitute for cell therapy. This review provides an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of cell-based and EV-based methods for treating autoimmune diseases. The study also presents an outlook on the future of EVs to be implemented in clinics for autoimmune patients.