bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of clinical effectiveness of complex therapy of generalized periodontitis in patients with gout
Authors:   Lviv National Medical University named after Danyla Halytskoho, Lviv, Ukraine, Gnid M. , Vynogradova O. ,   Lviv National Medical University named after Danyla Halytskoho, Lviv, Ukraine
Published: October 2023

Resume. Gout is a common disease, the basis of which is a violation of purine metabolism with an increased concentration of uric acid in the blood, excessive deposition of uric acid salts in the tissues of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs, with the subsequent development of inflammatory and, later, destructive and sclerotic changes in them . One of the relevant interdisciplinary problems is comorbidity in gout, which is closely related to cardiovascular pathology, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome, which includes diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. In connection with the steady trend towards a significant "rejuvenation" of patients with gout, considerable interdisciplinary scientific interest is caused by the search for relationships between gout and periodontal pathology. The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical effectiveness of complex pathogenetic treatment of generalized periodontitis in patients with gout. For the complex treatment of generalized periodontitis, 70 patients with gout were divided into 2 groups: the main group of patients was treated according to the developed pathogenetic scheme, the control group (35 humans) used traditional methods. The complex treatment of generalized periodontitis in patients with gout involved a combination of various therapeutic approaches and included professional oral hygiene and drug therapy. In the subjects of the main group, who used the developed pathogenetically directed scheme for the treatment of generalized periodontitis, a significant improvement in the state of the periodontal tissues was observed: the elimination of the inflammatory process and bleeding gums, a decrease in the depth of the periodontal pockets during all periods of observation. In the patients of the control group , who were treated with generally accepted methods, a noticeable improvement in the periodontal status was observed only after 1 month. In the long term of observation, there was a gradual progression of the pathological process in the periodontium, which testified to the insufficient effectiveness of the treatment of GP. Key words: gout, generalized periodontitis, treatment, clinical effectiveness.
Preventive plastic for architectronic disorders of the vestibule of the mouth
Authors:   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, Mahlynets N. , Ozhogan Z. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, Prots G. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, Pantus A. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, Yatsunovych V. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study. Improving the effectiveness of сomplex treatment of patients with maxillomandibular anomalies and disorders of the architectonics of the vestibule of the mouth. Research methods. 30 people aged 12–15 years with maxillomandibular anomalies and disorders of the architectonics of the vestibule of the mouth and 15 people of the comparison group. All patients had buccal frenulum plastic surgery using our proposed method. Patients of group I (15 people) were prescribed chlorhexidine-denta, patients of group II (15 people) were prescribed chlorhexidine-denta and a preparation based on hyaluronic acid in the postoperative period. Scientific novelty. Clinical studies have shown that all patients have anomalies of buccal frenum fixationin the area of the canines and premolars. The results of cytomorphometric and rheographic studies indicated a deficiency of blood supply in these areas. We found that up to 12 years in children may increase the depth of the vestibule of the mouth. The results of clinical and laboratory examination showed the advantage of the proposed treatment plan. Long-term results indicate the formation of a normorthophic scar, the absence of recurrences and recessions of the gums in the area of projections of connective tissue strands, the normalization of clinical and laboratory parameters. The obtained data in the ІІ group significantly differ from those in the І group (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Surgical correction of disorders of the architectonics of the vestibule of the mouth is an important and necessary stage of complex treatment of patients with maxillomandibular anomalies and disorders of the architectonics of the vestibule of the mouth. We can achieve the desired therapeutic effect in the treatment of such patients and prevent relapses only by eliminating the etiological factor. The use of preparations based on hyaluronic acid in the postoperative period stimulates reparative processes in the operated area and contributes to the formation of a normotrophic scar. Plastics of buccal frenulums are prevention of abnormal position of premolars and gum recession in the area of canines and premolars. It is important for preventive dentistry. Key words: vestibule of the mouth, buccal frenum, hyaluronic acid, mucosal graft.
A SUSTENTABILIDADE EM PRISMA: MEIOS PARA EFETIVAÇÃO DA SUSTENTABILIDADE SOB A ÓTICA ECONÔMICA
Authors: Pscheidt Eduardo Luiz Soletti , Benedet Giovana , Garcia Denise Schmitt Siqueira
Published: October 2023

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo geral de pesquisa a análise dos meios para a efetivação da sustentabilidade sob o prisma econômico da sustentabilidade, buscando para isto compreender o conceito de desenvolvimento econômico, a sustentabilidade e suas dimensões, demonstrando o viés transnacional da sustentabilidade, para mediante estes estudos mais propedêuticos examinar meios para a efetivação da sustentabilidade sob o prisma econômico, tem-se a partir disso o problema de pesquisa na viabilidade da efetivação da sustentabilidade sob a ótica econômica e os meios para a sua efetiva proteção. Quanto a Metodologia empregada, registra-se que, na Fase de Investigação foi utilizado o Método Indutivo, na Fase de Tratamento de Dados o Método Cartesiano, tendo como resultado alcançado a positivação da hipótese de que o prisma econômico é essencial para o alcance da sustentabilidade, na medida em que está intimamente ligado com o prisma social da sustentabilidade e que há meios possíveis e eficazes para o alcance dos objetivos sustentáveis sem deixar de lado o desenvolvimento econômico, valendo-se de técnicas como a economia circular e a tributação verde.
 Palavras-chave: Sustentabilidade. Economia. Direito Ambiental. Transnacionalidade ambiental.
 
 Abstract
The present work has as general research objective the analysis of the means for the realization of sustainability under the economic prism of sustainability, seeking for this to understand the concept of economic development, sustainability and its dimensions, demonstrating the transnational bias of sustainability, through these more propaedeutic studies examine means for the realization of sustainability from the economic point of view, starting from this the research problem on the viability of the effectiveness of sustainability from the economic point of view and the means for its effective protection. As for the Methodology employed, it is noted that, in the Investigation Phase, the Inductive Method was used, in the Data Processing Phase, the Cartesian Method, resulting in the positivization of the hypothesis that the economic prism is essential for achieving sustainability , insofar as it is closely linked with the social perspective of sustainability and that there are possible and effective ways to achieve sustainable goals without neglecting economic development, making use of techniques such as circular economy and green taxation.
Keywords: Sustainability. Economy. Environmental Law. Environmental transnationality.
Kamusal Sanat Yoluyla Koruma Bilincine Katkı: Mersin Balığı Örneği
Authors: USTAOĞLU TIRIL Serap , TIRIL Alpay
Published: October 2023

Geçmişten günümüze kamusal mekânlarda özel bir yeri olan görsel sanat eserleri, çağdaş kamusal alanların estetik yüzleri olmanın yanı sıra topluma verilmek istenen çeşitli mesajlara da aracılık ederler. Bu mesajlar tarihsel, kültürel ve siyasal içerikli olabilir. Ayrıca bu eserler, günümüz sorunlarına değinerek topluma bilgi vermek, yaygın eğitime katkıda bulunmak ve bilinçlendirmek gibi amaçlar da taşıyabilir. Dünya çapında nesli tehlikede olan mersin balıkları da kamusal sanat yoluyla tanıtılabilir ve koruma bilinci geliştirilebilir. Bu çalışmada, mersin balıklarının dünyada ve ülkemizde geçmişten günümüze kamusal alanlarda görsel sanat objesi olarak kullanımları değerlendirilmekte ve koruma bilincinin geliştirilmesine katkı sağlayabilecek bazı öneriler sunulmaktadır.
Cobalt Complexes with Bis-Imidazole and Bis-Benzazole Ligands as Catalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors:   , de Vos Sander Dinand
Published: October 2023

99% of our energy originates from the sun. For millions of years, plants have captured and stored this energy in chemical bonds, converting CO2 into sugar, that later resulted in fossil fuels. Today, we use these fossil fuels much more rapidly than they were produced causing abrupt changes in our climate that lead to severe weather events and the loss of ecosystems and biodiversity. To reduce climate change (a little bit late!), we aim to replace fossil fuels with sustainable energy carriers that are produced with renewable energy. A promising energy carrier is hydrogen gas, a clean burning fuel that produces water and no greenhouse gas upon combustion. Hydrogen gas can be produced from water with renewable energy, but the chemical bonds in water molecules are extremely strong and the breaking of these bonds causes the loss of an enormous amount of energy (to heat) making it a very inefficient use of our (renewable) energy. Not surprisingly, nature has found a way to bypass the loss of energy by using very complex molecular structures (enzymes) that are efficient in hydrogen production by pushing and pulling on molecules in the right position and with the right amount of power. Most inspiring is that these enzymes are built from earth-abundant elements only. As scientists, we are of course thrilled by this achievement and wish to reproduce the efficiency in the laboratory. In this thesis, we built molecular complexes, “artificial enzymes”, based on abundant elements, with which we aimed to facilitate the production of hydrogen gas. We were able to produce hydrogen gas with a cobalt-based molecular complex in which we incorporated a molecular functionality, a proton (substrate) relay, that facilitates the hydrogen gas-making process. With this achievement, we are a small step closer to understanding the fascinating processes in nature and a small step closer to (but still far from) energy-efficient hydrogen production using earth-abundant elements.
Making Ghana's Criminal Procedure Law Conform to Its Grundnorm: Decisions of the Supreme Court
Authors: Opoku-Agyakwa Samuel
Published: October 2023

In this article, I discuss 11 Supreme Court cases decided since 1993 in connection with Ghana’s criminal procedure law. Most of the cases tested the constitutionality of some provisions of the criminal procedure law and the outcomes reformed, and/or proposed institutional, policy and legal reforms. To facilitate presentation and analysis, I grouped the cases into the following constitutional/legal principles: liberty of the accused or suspect; right to be represented by counsel of one’s choice; compensation for wrongful arrest/detention/conviction; access to justice and to the court; the accused’s right to adequately prepare to mount a defence; determinants of the mode of criminal trials, and the right of the accused to know and the duty of criminal justice officials to explain. I conclude that the Court has largely upheld the Constitution and balanced individual and communal rights while protecting the accused and suspects. It has demonstrated its willingness to exercise its oversight functions but has been overly mindful of the impact of its decisions on the taxpayer. I also conclude that the criminal procedure law is outdated. Although the Court directed its orders for legislative reform at specific institutions, most of them have been ignored. Recommendations include reforming the criminal procedure law to conform to the Constitution and establishing a mechanism to oversee the implementation of the Court’s orders.
Settler-Colonialism, Israelisation and Learning Hebrew in School from an Early Age: Attitudes of Indigenous Palestinian-Arab Parents in Israel
Authors: Amara Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Considering the current policy and the reality of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, teaching modern Hebrew from an early age to Palestinian-Arab pupils in Israel is a breakthrough in the Palestinian-Arab language education policy. It has far-reaching educational, cultural, political, and ideological consequences. The creation of modern Hebrew was central to the Zionist settler project in Palestine. Hebrew language education among Palestinian-Arab pupils has undergone radical changes regarding when and why they should begin learning the language. These topics have not been treated sufficiently in the existing literature. This paper will examine the perceptions of the parents of young Palestinian-Arab pupils regarding learning Hebrew from kindergarten onwards. Using a semi-structured interview protocol carried out via Zoom, eighteen parents were interviewed about various issues related to learning Hebrew from an early age, and the arising results were subsequently analysed. The issues concerned pedagogical, social, economic, political, and ideological factors influencing the parents’ perceptions of the topic under analysis: a) a need — integrating into Israeli society; b) a difficulty — Hebrew as a burden on the learner; and c) impingement — maintenance of, and threats to Palestinian-Arab identities.
Settler-Colonial Theory and the Erasure of the Other: Constructing Hegemonic Narratives
Authors: Lund Caroline
Published: October 2023

This article explores how Israel, as a settler-colonial polity, uses and disseminates narratives pertaining to a Palestinian civil society and its resistance in order to further the settler-colonial project. For this purpose, the article is centred around a case study focusing on the six Palestinian civil society organisations that were designated ‘terrorist organisations’ in Israel and ‘unlawful organisations’ in the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt) as of late 2021.This case study shows that the inner logic of settler-colonialism, as it is organized around the principle of elimination, has been central to the designation of the six organisations. As the role of Palestinian civil society and political leadership has changed significantly in recent decades, the settler polity has been presented with an excellent opportunity to build and disseminate a false ‘terrorist’ narrative around the Palestinian civil society. Through different stages of expansion and dispossession, this narrative has been based on a perspective of exceptionalism and denial. As such, the construction of this narrative has served as an advancement of the erasure of native narratives, while at the same time legitimising the settler project itself and its utilised strategies.
YABAN HAYATI SUÇLARIYLA MÜCADELEDE ADLİ MUHASEBE YAKLAŞIMI
Authors: BOZTEPE Engin
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışma, adli muhasebenin yasadışı finansal akışları çözmedeki önemli rolünü incelemeyi ve bu yasadışı ticaretle ilişkili karmaşık ağları araştırarak yaban hayatı suçlarını incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Yaban hayatına karşı işlenen suçlar, koruma altındaki flora ve fauna türlerinin kaçak toplanması ve avlanması, kaçakçılığı ve ticareti de dâhil olmak üzere bir dizi yasadışı faaliyeti kapsamaktadır. Finansal istihbarat birimleri (FIU'lar) adli muhasebe tekniklerinden yararlanarak finansal işlemleri etkili bir şekilde analiz edebilir, kara para aklama mekanizmalarını belirleyebilir ve kapsamlı soruşturmaları destekleyebilir. Vaka çalışmalarından, akademik literatürden ve mevcut uygulamalardan yola çıkan bu araştırma, yaban hayatına karşı işlenen suçlarla mücadelede adli muhasebenin önemini ortaya koymaktadır. Kurumlar arası işbirliğine, stratejik risk değerlendirmesine, gelişmiş analitik araçlara ve sivil toplum kuruluşlarıyla stratejik ortaklıklara duyulan ihtiyacı vurgulamaktadır. Bu çalışmanın sonuçları, yaban hayatına karşı işlenen suçları ele almak, finansal soruşturmaları güçlendirmek ve bu yasadışı ticaretle ilişkili çevresel ve sosyoekonomik etkileri azaltmak için sağlam stratejilerin geliştirilmesine katkıda bulunmayı hedeflemektedir.
İNSANSIZ HAVA ARAÇLARI VE VERİMLİLİK İLİŞKİSİ ÜZERİNE BİR BİBLİYOMETRİK ANALİZ
Authors: MACİT Armağan
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmada, havacılık sektöründe köklü bir inovasyon olarak ortaya çıkan insansız hava araçları ve verimlilik ilişkisi üzerine yapılan akademik çalışmaların sistematik bir analizinin yapılması amaçlanmaktadır. Böylelikle insasız hava araçlarının verimlilik açısından değerlendirilebilmesininin sağlanması hedeflenmektedir. İnsansız hava araçlarının teknik, operasyonel, örgütsel vb. birçok verimlilik etkisi bulunması sebebi ile çalışma alanının geniş olması verimlilik hakkında genel çıkarım yapmayı zorlaştırmaktadır. Bu sebeple insansız hava araçları ve verimlilik üzerine yapılan akademik çalışmalardan tüm alanları kapsayacak bir analiz yapılacaktır. Scopus veri tabanında “İnsansız Hava Araçları”, “Drone” ve “Verimlilik” kelimeleri ile arama yapılarak, sonuçlar içerisinde anahtar kelimelerin eş-birlikteliğine dayalı eşleşmeler görselleştirilerek, yorumlanmıştır. Analiz için VOSViewer yazılımından yararlanılmıştır. Araştırma, İHA ve verimlilik üzerine çalışmaların tarım alanında yoğunlaştığını, bilişim sektöründe de çalışmaların olduğu sonucunu ortaya çıkarmıştır. Ancak birçok sektörde İHA kullanıldığı halde, verimliliği üzerine bilimsel çalışmaların olmadığı dikkat çekmiştir. Ayrıca bu alanda en çok yayın yapan ülkelerin Hindistan ve A.B.D. olduğu belirlenmiştir. Çalışma, insansız hava araçlarının verimliliği ile ilgili genel bir bakış açısı sağlayacak ilk çalışma olma özelliği ile özgünlük yaratmaktadır. Özellikle verimlilik çalışmalarının takibi için yol gösterici olacağına inanılmaktadır.
Isolation of goat milk small extracellular vesicles by novel combined bio-physical methodology
Authors: González María Isabel , Gallardo Begoña , Cerón Carlos , Aguilera-Jiménez Elena , Cortes-Canteli Marta , Peinado Héctor , Desco Manuel , Salinas Beatriz
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Goat milk is notable as a cost-effective source of exosomes, also known as small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). These nanoparticle-like structures are naturally secreted by cells and have emerged as potential diagnostic agents and drug delivery systems, also supported by their proven therapeutic effects. However, the complexity of goat milk and the lack of standardized protocols make it difficult to isolate pure sEVs. This work presents an optimized approach that combines well-established physical isolation methods with the biological treatment of milk with rennet.

Methods: sEVs derived from goat milk were purified using a methodology that combines differential ultracentrifugation, rennet, and size-exclusion chromatography. This novel strategy was compared with two of the main methodologies developed for isolating extracellular vesicles from bovine and human milk by means of physico-chemical characterization of collected vesicles using Transmission Electron Microscopy, Western blot, Bradford Coomassie assay, Dynamic Light Scattering, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis and Zeta Potential.

Results: Vesicles isolated with the optimized protocol had sEV-like characteristics and high homogeneity, while samples obtained with the previous methods were highly aggregated, with significant residual protein content.

Discussion: This work provides a novel biophysical methodology for isolating highly enriched goat milk sEVs samples with high stability and homogeneity, for their further evaluation in biomedical applications as diagnostic tools or drug delivery systems.
User experience with disinformation-countering tools: usability challenges and suggestions for improvement
Authors: Nault Kimberley , Ruhi Umar
Published: October 2023

Digital media has facilitated information spread and simultaneously opened a gateway for the distribution of disinformation. Websites and browser extensions have been put forth to mitigate its harm; however, there is a lack of research exploring their efficacy and user experiences. To address this gap, we conducted a usability evaluation of two websites and three browser extensions. Using a mixed methods approach, data from a heuristic evaluation and a moderated, task-based usability evaluation are analyzed in triangulation with data collected using summative evaluations. Challenges are identified to stem from users’ inability to understand results due to the presentation of information, unclear terminology, or lack of explanations. As a solution, we recommend four design principles: First is to establish credibility, second is to improve the general visual layout and design of the tools, third is to improve search capabilities, and finally, heavy importance should be given to the depth and presentation of information.
Spatiotemporal approach for estimating potential CO2 sequestration by reforestation in the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Lee Sle-gee , Kim Hyun-Jun
Published: October 2023

A forest is one of the carbon sinks in the terrestrial ecosystem; it is a major target for securing CO2 sequestration to achieve carbon neutrality. Reforestation is a forest management method that could attain carbon fixation and forest degradation recovery at the same time, but quantitative research has not been actively conducted. The purpose of this study is to identify the target areas for reforestation through changes in land cover in the Korean Peninsula and to quantify the potential CO2 sequestration effect of reforestation. According to the land cover change through satellite imagery, the area of settlements in the Republic of Korea (ROK) was the most dominant (+3,371 km2), and the main change occurred from cropland to settlements. The forest area increased by +1,544 km2 from 68,264 km2 in the 1980s to 69,809 km2 in the late 2010s. The forest decreased by 7,526 km2, accounting for 5.68% of the entire land area of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), and cropland increased by 5,222 km2 which is 5.12%. Assuming that the target of reforestation is an area whose land cover was a forest in the past and then converted to cropland, wetland, or bare ground, the area of the target decreased as the reference period was applied more recently. As a result of comparing the late 2000s to the late 2010s, the ROK's annual net carbon sequestration due to reforestation is predicted to be 10,833,600 Mg CO2 yr−1 in 2050 and 20,919,200 Mg CO2 yr−1 in 2070. In the DPRK, 14,236,800 Mg CO2 yr−1 in 2050 and 27,490,400 Mg CO2 yr−1 in 2070 were predicted. Reforestation in the Korean Peninsula was analyzed to have sufficient potential to secure a carbon sink, and the DPRK in particular was analyzed to be able to play a role in overseas reforestation.
A cyclic peptide-based PROTAC induces intracellular degradation of palmitoyltransferase and potently decreases PD-L1 expression in human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Shi Yu-Ying , Dong Di-Rong , Fan Gang , Dai Meng-Yuan , Liu Miao
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Our previous research has found that degradation of palmitoyltransferase in tumor cells using a linear peptide PROTAC leads to a significant decrease in PD-L1 expression in tumors. However, this degradation is not a sustained and efficient process. Therefore, we designed a cyclic peptide PROTAC to achieve this efficient anti-PD-L1 effect.

Methods

We designed and synthesized an improvement in linear peptide PROTAC targeting palmitoyltransferase DHHC3, and used disulfide bonds to stabilize the continuous N- and C-termini of the peptides to maintain their structure. Cellular and molecular biology techniques were used to test the effect of this cyclic peptide on PD-L1.

Results

In human cervical cancer cells, our cyclic peptide PROTAC can significantly downregulate palmitoyl transferase DHHC3 and PD-L1 expressions. This targeted degradation effect is enhanced with increasing doses and treatment duration, with a DC50 value much lower than that of linear peptides. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis of fluorescence intensity shows an increase in the amount of cyclic peptide entering the cell membrane with prolonged treatment time and higher concentrations. The Cellular Thermal Shift Assay (CETSA) method used in this study indicates effective binding between our novel cyclic peptide and DHHC3 protein, leading to a change in the thermal stability of the latter. The degradation of PD-L1 can be effectively blocked by the proteasome inhibitor MG132. Results from clone formation experiments illustrate that our cyclic peptide can enhance the proliferative inhibition effect of cisplatin on the C33A cell line. Furthermore, in the T cell-C33A co-culture system, cyclic peptides target the degradation of PD-L1, thereby blocking the interaction between PD-L1 and PD-1, and promoting the secretion of IFN-γ and TNF-α in the co-culture system supernatant.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that a disulfide-bridged cyclic peptide PROTAC targeting palmitoyltransferase can provide a stable and improved anti-PD-L1 activity in human tumor cells.
Development and characterization of a prototypic pan-amyloid clearing agent – a novel murine peptide-immunoglobulin fusion
Authors: Foster James S. , Balachandran Manasi , Hancock Trevor J. , Martin Emily B. , Macy Sallie , Wooliver Craig , Richey Tina , Stuckey Alan , Williams Angela D. , Jackson Joseph W. , Kennel Stephen J. , Wall Jonathan S.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Systemic amyloidosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the extracellular deposition of amyloid fibrils and accessory proteins in visceral organs and tissues. Amyloid accumulation causes organ dysfunction and is not generally cleared by the immune system. Current treatment focuses on reducing amyloid precursor protein synthesis and slowing amyloid deposition. However, curative interventions will likely also require removal of preexisting amyloid deposits to restore organ function. Here we describe a prototypic pan-amyloid binding peptide-antibody fusion molecule (mIgp5) that enhances macrophage uptake of amyloid.

Methods

The murine IgG1-IgG2a hybrid immunoglobulin with a pan amyloid-reactive peptide, p5, fused genetically to the N-terminal of the immunoglobulin light chain was synthesized in HEK293T/17 cells. The binding of the p5 peptide moiety was assayed using synthetic amyloid-like fibrils, human amyloid extracts and amyloid-laden tissues as substrates. Binding of radioiodinated mIgp5 with amyloid deposits in vivo was evaluated in a murine model of AA amyloidosis using small animal imaging and microautoradiography. The bioactivity of mIgp5 was assessed in complement fixation and in vitro phagocytosis assays in the presence of patient-derived amyloid extracts and synthetic amyloid fibrils as substrates and in the presence or absence of human serum.

Results

Murine Igp5 exhibited highly potent binding to AL and ATTR amyloid extracts and diverse types of amyloid in formalin-fixed tissue sections. In the murine model of systemic AA amyloidosis, 125I-mIgp5 bound rapidly and specifically to amyloid deposits in all organs, including the heart, with no evidence of non-specific uptake in healthy tissues. The bioactivity of the immunoglobulin Fc domain was uncompromised in the context of mIgp5 and served as an effective opsonin. Macrophage-mediated uptake of amyloid extract and purified amyloid fibrils was enhanced by the addition of mIgp5. This effect was exaggerated in the presence of human serum coincident with deposition of complement C5b9.

Conclusion

Immunostimulatory, amyloid-clearing therapeutics can be developed by incorporating pan-amyloid-reactive peptides, such as p5, as a targeting moiety. The immunologic functionality of the IgG remains intact in the context of the fusion protein. These data highlight the potential use of peptide-antibody fusions as therapeutics for all types of systemic amyloidosis.
One byte at a time: gathering best practices, guidelines, and resources for data standards to support ocean exploration and characterization
Authors: Cantwell Kasey , Demopoulos Amanda W. J. , Hebner Mitchell G. , Medley Rachel , Mueller Mark , Netburn Amanda N.
Published: October 2023

Initiated through Presidential direction and now codified, the National Ocean Mapping, Exploration, and Characterization (NOMEC) Council comprises leaders from U.S. federal agencies with a shared goal of mapping all waters of the United States and exploring and characterizing priority areas. The NOMEC Council’s two Interagency Working Groups, Ocean and Coastal Mapping (IWG-OCM) and Ocean Exploration and Characterization (IWG-OEC), both achieved major milestones recently with the 2023 release of the Draft Standard Ocean Mapping Protocols (SOMP) and the 2022 publication of the National Priorities for Ocean Exploration and Characterization. Building on this groundwork, the IWG-OEC is now looking to define and share best practices, guidelines, and resources for ocean exploration and characterization with the long-term goal of increasing community wide standardization to help achieve consistent common practices. First, the IWG-OEC plans to compile federal agency resources and share them in a newly developed online resource repository. The next phase is for the IWG-OEC to create opportunities for non-federal sectors to provide input on developing and populating this repository with additional content (existing standards and protocols, best practice and guidelines documents, etc.). After experts representing multiple sectors are identified, a series of results-oriented workshops are planned to provide input on all aspects of the data, products, and services from exploration and characterization. Finally, the IWG-OEC plans to widely share the online repository of best practices and standard operating procedures. A systematic, transparent, and collaborative process to share standards and protocols can help to enhance the interoperability of data and inform new lines of inquiry, discovery, research, and innovation.
Synthesis and structural characteristics analysis of melanin pigments induced by blue light in Morchella sextelata
Authors: Qiu Zhiheng , Wang Shuang , Zhao Jiazhi , Cui Lingxiu , Wang Xinyi , Cai Nuo , Li Hongpeng , Ren Shuhua , Li Tianlai , Shu Lili
Published: October 2023

Morchella sextelata, a highly sought-after edible mushroom worldwide, is evaluated based on its cap color as an essential commercial property indicator. In the present study, the effects of blue light on cap pigmentation in M. sextelata, as well as the synthesis and structural characteristics of melanin pigments within the cap were examined. The results showed that an increase in the proportion of blue light within the lighting environment promoted melanin synthesis and melanization of the cap. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy revealed the localization of melanin within the mycelium and its ultrastructural characteristics. The UV–visible analysis demonstrated that melanin exhibited a maximum absorption peak at 220 nm and possessed high alkaline solubility as well as acid precipitability. The structural characteristics of melanin were analyzed using FTIR, NMR, HPLC, and elemental analysis, which confirmed the presence of eumelanin, pheomelanin, and allomelanin in both brown and black caps. Furthermore, blue light can stimulate the synthesis of both eumelanin and pheomelanin. The obtained results can serve as the foundation for comprehending the mechanism by which light regulates color formation in mushrooms.
Test–retest reliability of cortico-spinal measurements in the rectus femoris at different contraction levels
Authors: Gomez-Guerrero Gonzalo , Avela Janne , Enroth Miro , Häkkinen Ella , Ansdell Paul , Howatson Glyn , Walker Simon
Published: October 2023

Single-pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and, very recently, lumbar stimulation (LS) have been used to measure cortico-spinal excitability from various interventions using maximal or submaximal contractions in the lower limbs. However, reliability studies have overlooked a wide range of contraction intensities for MEPs, and no reliability data is available for LEPs. This study investigated the reliability of motor evoked potentials and lumbar evoked potentials at different stimulation intensities and contraction levels in m.rectus femoris. Twenty-two participants performed non-fatiguing isometric knee extensions at 20 and 60% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). LS induced a lumbar-evoked potential (LEP) of 25 and 50% resting maximal compound action potential (M-max). TMS stimulator output was adjusted to 120, 140, and 160% of active motor threshold (aMT). In each contraction, a single MEP or LEP was delivered. Ten contractions were performed at each stimulator intensity and contraction level in random order. Moderate-to-good reliability was found when LEP was normalized to M-max/Root Mean Square in all conditions (ICC:0.74–0.85). Excellent reliability was found when MEP was normalized to Mmax for all conditions (ICC > 0.90) at 60% of MVC. Good reliability was found for the rest of the TMS conditions. Moderate-to-good reliability was found for silent period (SP) elicited by LS (ICC: 0.71–0.83). Good-to-excellent reliability was found for SP elicited by TMS (ICC > 0.82). MEPs and LEPs elicited in m.rectus femoris appear to be reliable to assess changes at different segments of the cortico-spinal tract during different contraction levels and stimulator output intensities. Furthermore, the TMS- and LS- elicited SP was a reliable tool considered to reflect inhibitory processes at spinal and cortical levels.
The effects of N-acetylcysteine supplement on metabolic parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Jiajun , Su Haodong , Jin Xueshan , Wang Lan , Huang Jieming
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disease, often accompanied by metabolic disorders. Metformin, as an insulin sensitizer, is widely used to improve the metabolic function of PCOS, but may have gastrointestinal side effects. Emerging evidence suggests that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves metabolic parameters in PCOS and may be a potential alternative to metformin.

Methods

We searched four online databases, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, from inception to April 1, 2023. The I2 statistic and Cochrane’s Q test were employed to determine heterogeneity between studies, with an I2 value >50% or p < 0.1 considered significant. The data were expressed as standardized mean differences and corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 11 randomized controlled trials were included in the final analysis, including 869 women with PCOS. The results showed that NAC caused more changes in body mass index (SMD: −0.16, 95% CI: −0.40 to 0.08), body weight (SMD: −0.25, 95% CI: −0.50 to 0.00), fasting insulin (SMD: −0.24, 95% CI: −0.53 to 0.06), ratio of fasting blood glucose to fasting insulin (SMD: 0.38, 95% CI: −0.33 to 1.08), total cholesterol (SMD: −0.11, 95% CI: −0.39 to 0.17), triglycerides (SMD: −0.18, 95% CI: −0.63 to 0.28), and low-density lipoprotein (SMD: −0.09, 95% CI: −0.51 to 0.33) compared with metformin. Compared with metformin or placebo, NAC significantly reduced fasting blood-glucose levels (SMD: −0.23, 95% CI: −0.43 to −0.04; SMD: −0.54, 95% CI: −1.03 to −0.05, respectively). In addition, NAC significantly reduced total cholesterol (SMD: −0.74, 95% CI: −1.37 to −0.12), and this effect was observed when NAC was compared with placebo. However, NAC reduced HDL levels in women with PCOS compared with metformin (SMD: −0.14, 95% CI: −0.42 to 0.14).

Conclusion

This study suggests that NAC is effective in improving metabolic parameters in PCOS and may be a promising nutritional supplement for the treatment of PCOS.

Systematic review registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=415172, identifier CRD42022339171.
Factors associated with adaptation level in the older adult residential care facilities: a path analysis
Authors: Zhao Di , Niu Meilan , Zhang Shanfeng , Shi Yan , Zhou Lin , Song Yuxia , Ma Rui , Wang Peng
Published: October 2023

Background

It has become very common for older adults to relocate to residential care facilities. Yet whether older adults adapt to life in a long-term care residential facility through perception, reflection, and conscious behavioral choices is a challenging social issue. Previous research has shown that adaptation is influenced by physical, mental, psychological, social systems, and other debris factors. However, existing knowledge is often based on unidirectional relationships between these factors and adaptation. Few studies have formally examined bivariate relationships between these factors, and the influence of adaptation between these factors internally remains unclear. Therefore, there is a need to examine the structural causality of adaptation in residential care facilities influenced by a combination of physical, emotional, social and psychological factors, life satisfaction, and social support.

Methods

The present cross-sectional study recruited older adults from three residential care facilities in Henan province, China, through convenience sampling. The Chinese Nursing Home Adjustment Scale (NHAS), Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15) and Social Support Scale (SSRS), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Barthel Index were employed to measure the older adult’ adjustment level, depression level, social support, satisfaction with life, and self-care ability of theBMC, respectively. The relationships between depression, social support, self-care, satisfaction with life, and adaptation were analyzed and a structural equation model was developed.

Results

A total of 210 participants completed the questionnaire. The model demonstrated an acceptable fit of the data. The results showed that the difference between life satisfaction and depression on the level of adaptation was 60 and 23%, respectively. Social support and life satisfaction had a positive direct effect on the level of adaptation, both showing a positive correlation with the level of adaptation. Depression, on the other hand, have a direct effect on the level of adaptation and showed a negative correlation with the level of adaptation. Self-care ability indirectly influenced adaptation mediated by social support.

Conclusion

Social support has a positive impact on both life satisfaction and depression, which in turn promotes adaptation. As a major source of social support, family members and nursing home staff in residential care facilities can enhance social support for older people through improved interaction, which can have a meaningful and positive impact on levels of adjustment. The model demonstrates the strengthening and weakening of social support, self-care, life satisfaction, and depression levels, which can help inform the development of relevant care health strategies for older people to promote levels of adjustment and improve quality of life.
IoT in medical diagnosis: detecting excretory functional disorders for Older adults via bathroom activity change using unobtrusive IoT technology
Authors: Abdulrazak Bessam , Mostafa Ahmed Hassan , Aloulou Hamdi , Mokhtari Mounir , Blanchet F. Guillaume
Published: October 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are promising technologies that can help make the health system more efficient, which concurrently can be particularly useful to help maintain a high quality of life for older adults, especially in light of healthcare staff shortage. Many health issues are challenging to manage both by healthcare staff and policymakers. They have a negative impact on older adults and their families and are an economic burden to societies around the world. This situation is particularly critical for older adults, a population highly vulnerable to diseases that needs more consideration and care. It is, therefore, crucial to improve diagnostic and management as well as proposed prevention strategies to enhance the health and quality of life of older adults. In this study, we focus on detecting symptoms in early stages of diseases to prevent the deterioration of older adults' health and avoid complications. We focus on digestive and urinary system disorders [mainly the Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and the Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)] that are known to affect older adult populations and that are detrimental to their health and quality of life. Our proposed approach relies on unobtrusive IoT and change point detections algorithms to help follow older adults' health status daily. The approach monitors long-term behavior changes and detects possible changes in older adults' behavior suggesting early onsets or symptoms of IBS and UTI. We validated our approach with medical staff reports and IoT data collected in the residence of 16 different older adults during periods ranging from several months to a few years. Results are showing that our proposed approach can detect changes associated to symptoms of UTI and IBS, which were confirmed with observations and testimonies from the medical staff.
Out-of-hospital rescue medication in dogs with emergency seizure disorders: an owner perspective
Authors: Kähn Charlotte , Bhatti Sofie F. M. , Meller Sebastian , Meyerhoff Nina , Volk Holger A. , Charalambous Marios
Published: October 2023

Background

Emergency seizure disorders such as status epilepticus and cluster seizures are unlikely to cease spontaneously while prolonged seizure activity become progressively more resistant to treatment. Early administration of rescue medication in canine epileptic patients, in particular benzodiazepines, at seizure onset by the owners can be life-saving and brain protecting. Clinical studies in dogs evaluating the use of rescue medication in hospital environment exist, however, the owner perspective has not been assessed to date.

Hypothesis or objectives

To evaluate the use of rescue medication in dogs with seizure emergencies by the owner at home.

Method

Observational study based on online surveys of owners of dogs with emergency seizure disorders.

Results

The questionnaire was answered by 1,563 dog owners, of which 761 provided complete and accurate answers suitable for analysis. Of these, 71% administered diazepam, 19% midazolam, 6% levetiracetam, 3% lorazepam, and 4% more than one rescue or other medication. Overall, the success rates based on owners’ perspective for intranasal midazolam and rectal diazepam were 97 and 63%, respectively. Owners reported a compliance level of 95 and 66% for intranasal midazolam and rectal diazepam administration, respectively.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Even though rectal diazepam was the most used rescue medication in this survey population, intranasal midazolam was perceived by the owners as a better option regarding effectiveness, time to seizure cessation and owner compliance.
Exploring Graph and Digraph Persistence
Authors: Bergomi Mattia G. , Ferri Massimo
Published: October 2023

Among the various generalizations of persistent topology, that based on rank functions and leading to indexing-aware functions appears to be particularly suited to catching graph-theoretical properties without the need for a simplicial construction and a homology computation. This paper defines and studies “simple” and “single-vertex” features in directed and undirected graphs, through which several indexing-aware persistence functions are produced, within the scheme of steady and ranging sets. The implementation of the “sink” feature and its application to trust networks provide an example of the ease of use and meaningfulness of the method.
Swiss Parabolic Flights: Development of a Non-Governmental Parabolic Flight Program in Switzerland Based on the Airbus A310 ZERO-G
Authors: Ullrich Oliver , Casal Christian Paul , Dové Natalie , Fischer Calista , Gassmann Max , Gerber Martin Daniel , Guldener Rudolf , Layer Liliana Elisabeth , Neininger Bruno , Ulrich Silvia , Studer Marc , Thiel Cora Sandra
Published: October 2023

Parabolic flights are one of the most important pillars for research, development, and applications in space. Accordingly, we developed the world’s first non-governmental parabolic flight program using Novespace’s Airbus A310 ZERO-G. Through the flexible combination of academic research with industrial experiments, as well as with the support of private persons and low administrative efforts, we achieved a highly cost-efficient small-scale campaign concept, which is located at the Air Base Dübendorf in Switzerland. The program was very successful, and it resulted in 31 experiments and tests conducted by Universities and organizations in the industry in microgravity, culminating in many scientific publications and in larger subsequent projects for all users. We describe here how we designed, developed, tested, and built up this program. We also discuss the difficulties, problems, and success factors of a project that—for the first time—was successfully built from the “bottom-up”, and which was a large-scale flight research platform by scientists for scientists on a voluntary, non-governmental, and non-commercial basis.
The Effect of Canopy Position on the Fruit Quality Parameters and Contents of Bioactive Compounds and Minerals in ‘Braeburn’ Apples
Authors: Kaučić Mislav , Vuković Marko , Gašpar Luka , Fruk Goran , Vidrih Rajko , Nečemer Marijan , Fruk Mladen , Jatoi Mushtaque A. , Fu Daqi , Kobav Matej Bernard , Jemrić Tomislav
Published: October 2023

This study attempts to clarify the effect of canopy position on the physico-chemical parameters of apples cv. Braeburn. The experiments were carried out on fruit from the inner and outer part of the canopy in two growing seasons and at two harvest dates. Light measurements revealed that the average value of photo active radiation (PAR) for the inside and outside canopy amounted to 30.3 μmol/m2/s and 133.7 μmol/m2/s, respectively. Production year and canopy position significantly influenced ground color parameters a*, b*, C*, and h°, while the harvest date influenced all color parameters studied. For additional (red blush) coloration, the production year significantly influenced only the L* parameter, harvest date influenced all color parameters, and canopy position influenced L, a*, and C*. Only the fruits of the second harvest date showed more intense additional (red blush) coloration. The production year significantly affected fruit mass, firmness, total soluble solids (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), SSC/TA ratio, DPPH radical scavenging assay (AOP), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). The harvest date significantly influenced fruit mass, SSC, TA, SSC/TA, AOP, TPC, and TFC. The canopy position significantly influenced SSC, TA, AOP, TPC, and TFC. Regarding mineral content, the production year significantly affected the content of Fe, Ni, Cu, and Ca and the K/Ca ratio. The harvest date significantly affected Fe, Cu, Sr, K and K/Ca. The canopy position affected Fe, Ni, Zn, Sr, Ca, and K/Ca ratio, with a clear significant trend regarding the effect of canopy position only for Ca content (first and second year of the second harvest date) and K/Ca ratio (first year of both harvest dates). PCA analyses identified distinguishing features between apples, with differences defined specifically by AOP, TPC, TFC, Rb, Sr, Ca, and K/Ca on the PC 1 and Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, and Zn on PC 2.