bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Ecological Reality: Climate Change as a Societal Problem
Authors: Shafiyev Uzeyir , Shafiyeva Gulgun
Published: November 2024

In the presented article, studying climate changes as one of the global problems that concern the countries of the world, as well as the impact of anthropogenic factors on the living world, preventing the consequences they cause to the environment, taking measures on a global scale in order to minimize these effects, and cooperating in this direction is one of the main priority issues in the modern era. as mentioned. It is noted that there are conflicting views on the approach to the problem. The scientific community investigating the topic of climate change is divided into two fronts. The first front is based on the fact that climate change is an empty claim made by a group of stakeholders, especially developed countries, to prevent the speed of progress in developing countries. The second front, which includes well-known environmental scientists of the world, tries to explain with its scientific reasoning and research that climate change is the most serious problem facing humanity. In the article, the causes of climate change, its social consequences, and the ways to eliminate the problem are analyzed. Here, the mentioned problem is approached with the method of historical comparison and double comparison, and the necessity of global cooperation in solving the problem is emphasized. Today, the leading countries responsible for the fate of the world must be sincere in their efforts to eliminate the factors that cause climate change, think in one way, speak in one way, and act in one way. Imitation of action will not allow to achieve the declared goals, it can lead the world to irreversible disasters. More effective educational measures should be taken for the ecological education, morality, and culture of the human race. It is an imperative to form an international organization that is responsible for the fate of the world, formed on representative bases, based on the principle of objective, honest, social justice, guided by international law, and has the practical imperative power of the decisions it will make. Protection of the world house is possible with the joint effort of every inhabitant of this house.
Influences of Turkism on Azerbaijani Literary Thinking
Authors: Azizov Sakhavat , Aslan Bahtiyar
Published: November 2024

The emergence of Turkism in Azerbaijani literature occurred after the rise of literary Turkism in Ottoman Turkey, where it first developed and flourished. Although ideas of Turkification or a return to Turkism, as proposed by Ottoman thinkers, writers, and educators, initially sparked debate, over time these ideas evolved into an ideology and eventually a well-established concept. Unlike political Turkism, literary Turkism gained widespread acceptance among the people through the works of writers and poets, who awakened national feelings and patriotism. The ideas of literary Turkism gradually transcended Ottoman Turkey’s borders, spreading into the Azerbaijani literary environment and influencing Azerbaijani writers and poets. In Azerbaijan, people discussed these ideas, which piqued their interest through newspapers, magazines, and books published in Istanbul. Azerbaijani writers and thinkers, inspired by these ideas, promoted them in their writings and sought to make them widespread. Even earlier, Mirza Fatali Akhundov, by creating works in his native language, laid the foundation for Turkism in terms of writing and language, albeit indirectly. After him, Hasan bey Zardabi, Ahmad bey Aghaoghlu, and especially Ali bey Huseynzadeh, contributed significantly to this movement through their writings. This paper explores the emergence, development, and dissemination of literary Turkism in Azerbaijan.
Enlightenment: Defining the Goals of Modernity
Authors: Mahmandarov Dashdamir
Published: November 2024

Modernity is seen as a historical process that started with the Renaissance and took shape with the French Revolution. Modernity, which passed through historical turning points such as Renaissance, Reformation and Enlightenment, gained its own character in these periods. In this study, the Enlightenment period and its ideas, which are accepted as one of the most important periods of modernity and the modern world, are discussed. During the Enlightenment period, it was emphasized that the human mind should be purified from traditions and other old-fashioned features. It is no coincidence that one of the first concepts that comes to mind when modernity is mentioned is the rational mind. The fact that reason is the central and determining element and character of modern human life, modern institutions and society is related to the Enlightenment period. In this article, the Age of Enlightenment is discussed within the framework of its basic characteristics, the features it brought to modernity and its relationship with religion. In the article, the foregrounding of reason and the spread of rationalization to all areas of modernity are evaluated as an achievement of the Enlightenment period. This study, which was carried out with the literature review method of the qualitative research method, one of the research methods of social sciences, evaluated the Enlightenment as a turning point in which the goals of modernity were determined.
The Importance of the Energy Sector in the Geoeconomic Situation of Azerbaijan in the First Decade of the 21st Century
Authors: Sadigli Agamahammad
Published: November 2024

The article analyzes the development path of the energy sector of Azerbaijan over the past quarter century and its geoeconomic significance. The article jointly analyzes the geoeconomic parameters of Azerbaijan’s energy resources and their role in economic diversification for the first time. This analysis covers a certain period of time, during which new proposals are made, such as revising the importance of energy resources in the world and implementing the transition to green energy. Studying the material of the article allows us to consider to a certain extent the nature of the global political course around energy resources and the dividends that it has brought and can bring in the future to Azerbaijan. On the eve of the COP 29 event, it is very important to analyze the positive impact of this event on the geopolitical influence of Azerbaijan and the benefits it brings to its geoeconomic interests. It can also serve as a kind of basic material for researchers conducting research in this direction. The importance of the energy sector in Azerbaijan's geoeconomic situation during the first decade of the 21st century can be explored through several dimensions, including the country's strategic position, its energy resources, and how these elements shaped its geopolitical influence and economic growth. The scientific innovation of this theme lies in understanding the transformational role that Azerbaijan's energy sector played not only in its national development but also in the broader regional and global geopolitical context.
The Place and Role of Ali Bey Huseynzade in the History of Modern Azerbaijani Social-Philosophical Thought
Authors: Misirkhanova Sevinj
Published: November 2024

Ali Bey Huseynzade, one of the prominent representatives of Azerbaijan's literary, cultural, social-political, and philosophical thought in the 20th century, was the first publisher of the political-Turkism movement in Azerbaijan. He was a distinguished political figure, talented scientist, thinker, and publicist, and holds a unique place in the history of the Azerbaijani people. Over time, there is an increasing need to deeply comprehend and study the magnificent artistic works created by Ali Bey Huseynzade. Throughout his life, Huseynzade dedicated his prolific writing to the research and promotion of pan-Turkish spiritual values, fighting with all the strength of his brilliant talent for the progress of the Turkic people. He played an important role in the formation of the theoretical-philosophical foundations of the Azerbaijani national idea, striving for reforms in public and cultural life and artistic consciousness through his rich creative output. With his famous "Threefold Formula"-"Turkification, Islamization, Modernization" - he contributed to the formation of the ideology of Azerbaijanism. He advocated for the necessity of abandoning sectarian divisions and uniting all Muslims under the umbrella of a single religion-Islam. In his article titled "What is Young Turkism?", he explained the essence of the Turkish reform movement and expressed his views in many articles published in newspapers and magazines, arguing that Ottoman Turkish should become the common language of all Turks. Having spent more than 30 years of his life in exile, Ali Bey’s complex and turbulent life path was marked by political and cultural struggles aimed at the unity and wholeness of the Turkic world. The article emphasizes the significance of national-democratic values, highly relevant today, and their reflection in Azerbaijani philosophy and social-political thought. It also highlights the necessity of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic as the first historical embodiment of the national-democratic statehood ideology, which began in the early 20th century. Ali Bey Huseynzade’s multifaceted activities and his intellectual contributions, not only for Azerbaijani Turks but for the entire Turkic world, affirm the relevance of the subject as he remains a valuable thinker on a broader scale.
Explanation of the Terms in the Article Headings in the Dictionary Muʻjamu Maqāyīs Al-Lughah of Ibn Fāris
Authors: Kahayev Amir
Published: November 2024

Based on the fact that Arabic words have roots from which they are derivated and their common meanings and there is a meaning relationship between words derivated from the same root Ibn Fāris tried to prove this theory in his dictionary. According to Ibn Fāris maqāyīs means the words that was derivated from a same root and have a common meaning. The purpose of writing this dictionary by Ibn Fāris is to determine the common meaning of words that was derivated from a same root. This common meaning is called asl (origin) or miqyās (gauge). He tried to mention the most obvious expression of common meaning. Thus, the words with similar meanings can be gathered around the same expression. There are totally 4659 articles in al-Maqāyīs. Of these articles approximately 2175 articles have one common meaning, 355 articles have two common meanings, 68 articles have three common meanings and 15 articles have four common meanings. There are just 4 aricles they have five common meanings andonly one article has six common meanings. He characterized 222 articles with useyl. While explaning the articles he gaved a great importance to the testimony. He recorded in his dictionary approximately 5.000 poems and 858 rajazs. And there are 612 verses, 579 hadithes and nearly 390 proverbs in this work. While explaning these articles Ibn Fāris used some concepts. He generally recorded these concepts in the first line when he starts to explain an article. That’s why it’s not easy to understand the articles without understanding the recorded concepts in this work. This article was prepared to explain the concepts in al-Maqāyīs. In this way, it is aimed to understand this work better. In this article are explained 14 concepts and are given some articles in which these concepts are mentioned as examples. Ibn Fāris used the word of kalima wāhida (one word) in the meaning of meaning/content. The concept of binā is used in some articles in the meaning of root, in some articles in the meaning of meaning/content and somtimes is used in the meaning of common meaning. But the concept of harf (letter) is used for the roots which is given a little explanation. It is possible to say that this concept means word (kalima) and these articles are not suitable for common meaning. Also in some articles the author mentioned about the meaning inconsistency and the meaning distance between common meanings. He used terms like meaning dissimilarity (ademu inqiyās) and individual meaningful words for the roots which he could not find the common meanings. The author sometimes used the terms of difference (tafāwut), meaning similarity (taqārub) and interference (tadākhul) between origins and words. Although he accepts the existence of common words and auto-antonym (ezdād) in Arabic language, he states that there is a detail difference between the words which are considered to be synonym. The concept of muhmal means the neglected articles or the articles whose letters are incomatible.
Di-[trioctyl-(8-phenyloctyl)-phosphonium] pamoate: synthesis and characterization of a novel, highly hydrophobic ionic liquid for the extraction of scandium, thorium and uranium
Authors: Gradwohl Andreas , Windisch Jakob , Rosner Alexander , Heninger Julia , Fuhrmann Philipp L. , Wallner Gabriele , Keppler Bernhard K. , Kandioller Wolfgang , Jirsa Franz
Published: November 2024

We synthesized and characterized a novel, task-specific ionic liquid for metal extraction with considerably reduced leaching behavior compared to similar, phosphonium-based ionic liquids. The synthesis involves the design of the novel compound [TOPP]2[PAM] featuring both a highly hydrophobic cation and a functional anion. The characterization of the novel ionic liquid confirmed the formation of the desired structure and sufficient purity. The high viscosity of [TOPP]2[PAM] is responsible for the comparably high working temperature of 50°C. Extraction experiments demonstrated the suitability of [TOPP]2[PAM] for extracting Sc, Th and U from aqueous matrices, whereby extraction efficacies of 87.3% ± 9.1% (Sc), 95.8% ± 2.3% (Th) and 92.7% ± 0.3% (U) were achieved over 24 h. Furthermore, Sc could be separated to a high degree via selective extraction from Th as well as from the rare earth elements Y, La, Ce, Nd, Eu, Ho and Lu. Th was separated from La, Ce, Nd, Eu, Ho and Lu at pH 1.00. During all extraction experiments, leaching into the aqueous extraction matrix peaked at only 0.134% ± 0.011% after 24 h. The loading capacities for [TOPP]2[PAM] differed between the investigated metals, the highest values being achieved for U. After extraction, 82.7% ± 2.8% of the extracted Sc could be recovered from the IL using nitric acid (10%), but less of Th and U.
Hospitalizations and cardiac sarcoidosis: insights into presentation and diagnosis from the nationwide readmission database
Authors: Abraham Jacob , Spinelli Kateri , Li Hsin-Fang , Pham Tuan , Wang Mansen , Sheikh Farooq H.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is an increasingly recognized cause of cardiac disease. Because the clinical presentation of CS is non-specific, the diagnosis is often delayed. Early detection is essential to initiate treatments that reduce the risk of heart failure (HF) and arrhythmic death. We therefore aimed to describe the features of CS hospitalizations during which the initial diagnosis of CS is made.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of hospitalizations from 2016 to 2019 in the Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD). Hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis suggestive of CS (HF/cardiomyopathy, cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, or heart block) were categorized into cases with and without CS as a secondary diagnosis (CS+ and CS−, respectively). One-to-one propensity score matching (PSM) was performed.

Results

The CS+ cohort comprised 1,146 hospitalizations and the CS− cohort 3,250,696 hospitalizations. The CS+ cohort included patients who were younger and more often male. PSM resulted in highly matched cohorts (absolute standardized mean difference <0.1). Primary diagnoses of ventricular arrhythmias (VA) or heart block were more frequent in matched CS+ hospitalizations, whereas primary diagnosis of HF/cardiomyopathy was more frequent in matched CS− hospitalizations. The matched CS+ group exhibited higher rates of in-hospital procedures and longer length of stay. In-hospital mortality and 30-day readmission were similar between matched cohorts.

Discussion

These findings highlight increased rates of CS in younger males with primary diagnoses of VA and heart block, and increased use of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions such as pacemaker and left ventricular assist device implantation, and could aid clinicians in more timely diagnosis and treatment of CS.
Slip characteristics of planar and rough granite fractures under unloading normal force
Authors: Tao Zongheng , Tang Wei , Li Xingling , Tao Kang , Dang Wengang
Published: November 2024

Unloading processes are common in natural systems. Intense unloading activities can alter the frictional equilibrium of faults and induce their instabilities. Understanding the slip behavior of faults under stress unloading conditions is helpful in guiding engineering practices. We conducted a series of direct shear experiments under linear-unloading normal force conditions considering the influences of initial normal forces, initial shear forces, and normal unloading rates on planar and rough granite fractures. The experimental results showed that planar fracture exhibits sudden slip events during normal unloading, while rough fracture mostly displays stable sliding behavior. The planar fracture demonstrates an exponential increase in sliding distance and velocity at the end of each slip event. The rough fracture usually exhibits a quasi-static stage before rapid slip events. In addition, the accumulative sliding distance at the slip activation moment (at the first moment when sliding velocity is greater than 0.05 mm/s) for the planar fracture decreases with lower normal unloading rate, larger shear force and larger normal force, while its variation trend for rough fracture is opposite. These findings provide valuable insights into fault slip behavior under stress unloading, aiding in mitigating associated risks in engineering applications.
A systematic review of soft skills interventions within curricula from school to university level
Authors: Orih Dominic , Heyeres Marion , Morgan Rhian , Udah Hyacinth , Tsey Komla
Published: November 2024

Background

Soft skills are increasingly promoted in curricula, writ large in its scholarly interest over the last decade. Yet systematic literature reviews covering all educational stages are lacking. This review addresses this gap by examining soft skills interventions across all educational levels, evaluating their characteristics, design quality, and outcomes.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across ERIC, Scopus, Informit A+ Education, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2022 to identify peer-reviewed studies on soft skills interventions within education curricula at all levels. Study characteristics were extracted, analysed and synthesised to inform conclusion. Quality assessment was performed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) evaluation tools. This study is registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022309833).

Results

The search yielded 5,689 records, and after eligibility assessment, 38 studies were included. These studies employed various interventions that span three categories namely, workshop-based, creative-based, and project-based approaches, to enhance students’ soft skills. Reported outcomes encompassed improved soft skills, employability, career planning, social–emotional learning, academic performance, and reduced issues like violence, drug abuse, depression, and bullying. Quality appraisal using CASP and EPHPP tools identified three studies as “best practice” among the 38. The review highlights diverse interventions and positive impacts on students’ holistic development through soft skills programs.

Conclusion

The analysis of 38 studies underscores the shortage of literature on soft skills in primary and secondary schools compared to universities, a lack of high-quality “best practice” resources for soft skills development, and a tendency for control group participants to miss vital soft skills training. While randomised controlled trials (RCTs), considered as gold standard, informed ‘best practice’ studies, RCTs may not fully capture the nuances of complex social interventions like soft skills programs. Therefore, there is need for alternative approaches, such as continuous quality improvement studies using mixed methods. Consequently, we recommended that future research consider these aspects to enhance the effectiveness of soft skills development in curricula.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022309833, identifier CRD42022309833.
Using anti-Müllerian hormone to predict premature ovarian insufficiency: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Yuanxin , Kuang Xiaojun , Jiangzhou Huiting , Li Meiling , Yang Dongjian , Lai Dongmei
Published: November 2024

Background

Premature ovarian insufficiency/failure (POI/POF) is a significant issue for women of reproductive age. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a potential biomarker of ovarian reserve, but its clinical value in diagnosing and predicting POI/POF remains unclear. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between AMH and basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in women aged 18 to 40 and evaluate AMH’s predictive value for POI/POF.

Methods

A total of 21,143 participants aged 18-40 who visited the gynecology department or underwent physical examinations at the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital in Shanghai, China, from July 2016 to June 2021 were enrolled. Demographic information and laboratory test results were collected, including age, FSH, AMH, E2 and test dates. Participants were grouped by FSH and AMH levels, and subgroup analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between these hormones and age. The AMH level associated with POI risk was evaluated using restricted cubic splines (RCS) and logistic regression. Clinical benefit was assessed by decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Participants with higher FSH levels had significantly lower median AMH levels and vice versa(p<0.001). At AMH ≥ 0.5 ng/mL, FSH levels were normal or slightly elevated with age. At AMH level below 0.5ng/ml,basal FSH increased significantly with age. At FSH <10 IU/L, AMH levels show a trend of rising and then decreasing with age, reaching a peak at approximately 25 years old and gradually decreasing with age. At FSH ≥10 IU/L, AMH levels show a gradual downward trend with age, and at FSH >40 IU/L, AMH levels remain very low to undetectable values. The RCS showed that the risk of POI/POF in the overall population sharply increased until serum AMH reached a low level (below 0.5ng/ml). DCA showed that a low AMH level had good clinical diagnostic utility in predicting POI/POF.

Conclusion

Our analysis of a large dataset suggests that serum AMH levels are inversely correlated with FSH levels and that AMH is a good predictor of POI until it drops to a low level.
Analysis of mooring performance and layout parameters of multi-segment mooring system for a 15 MW floating wind turbine
Authors: Huang Jianwu , Xu Hang , Chen Li , Lin Kuigeng , Guo Mingyuan , Yang Mindong , Rui Shengjie
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Floating wind power is the important path for the development of offshore wind energy, and the performance of the mooring system of floating wind turbines (FOWTs) significantly affects their economic viability, safety, and sustainability.

Methods

This paper systematically analyses the positioning performance, mooring line extreme loads, and fatigue response of a FOWT equipped with both single segment and multi-segment mooring systems, based on the IEA 15 MW large turbine and a floating platform. The hydrodynamic performance of the floating platform is calculated, and the platform’s motion-sensitive directions are analysed through Response Amplitude Operators (RAOs). The natural periods of the platform are validated by free decay tests. The six degrees of freedom (DOFs) motion response and the mooring line peak tensions are analysed under normal and extreme conditions.

Results

The results show that both mooring systems provide good motion performance and stable tilt angles for the platform. Under ALS (single-line failure) condition, the multi-segment mooring system demonstrates a notable capacity to resist impact loads, with comparatively minor fluctuations in mooring line tension. In the multi-segment system, fatigue damage primarily occurs in the upper mooring chain, with damage approximately 4.5 times greater than that of the bottom chain over a 1-year period. The effects of mooring line spread angles and lengths on performance are also analysed. The results indicate that the mooring line spread angle has slight impact on platform motion response and mooring line tension, while mooring line length significantly affects the extreme tension of the lines.

Discussion

The findings of this study can provide some references in the design of mooring systems for future FOWTs.
Ozone promotes macrophage efferocytosis and alleviates neuropathic pain by activating the AMPK/Gas6-MerTK/SOCS3 signaling pathway
Authors: Ruan Shirong , Jia Rumeng , Hu Liang , Liu Yuge , Tian Qingyan , Jiang Kunmao , Xia Xinyue , Tao Xueyou , Liu Wen-Tao , Pan Yinbing , Hu Fan
Published: November 2024

Background

Neuropathic pain (NPP) is a multifaceted pain syndrome that occurs as a consequence of physical injury or underlying diseases, with an incidence rate of 7%-10%, NPP poses a significant clinical challenge as current treatment options are ineffective. The accumulation of apoptotic cells and neuroinflammation play crucial roles in the pathological mechanisms of NPP. Here, we aim to investigate strategies for effectively clearing apoptotic cells and provide therapeutic interventions for NPP.

Methods

CCI mice were treated with different concentrations of ozone (15μg, 30μg, 45μg) to investigate the effects on the accumulation of apoptotic cells and neuroinflammation. In vitro, the phagocytic function of BMDM towards apoptotic neutrophils after ozone treatment was examined.

Results

We found ozone at a concentration of 30μg significantly alleviated mechanical hypersensitivity in CCI mice and ozone significantly upregulates the phagocytic activity of BMDM. Furthermore, we investigated the mechanisms and found ozone could activate AMPK, upregulate Gas6 (but not Protein S), activate MerTK (a key receptor involved in apoptosis), and enhance the phagocytic function of BMDM towards apoptotic neutrophils. It caused the promotion of SOCS3 expression and the suppression of inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-a. Interestingly, the effect of ozone in alleviating CCI-induced pain was abolished by the AMPK inhibitor CC and the MerTK receptor inhibitor UNC2541.

Conclusion

Ozone facilitated macrophage clearance of apoptotic cells, decreased neuroinflammation by activation of p-AMPK/Gas6/MerTK/SOCS3 signaling pathway, which may become an effective therapeutic approach for neuropathic pain after further clinical validation.
Cocktail vaccine for the management of Hyalomma anatolicum and Rhipicephalus microplus
Authors: Manjunathachar Haranahally Vasanthachar , Kumar Binod , Parthasarathi Balasamudram Chandrasekhar , Chigure Gajanan M. , Saravanan Buddhi Chandrasekaran , Sankar Muthu , Harish Darasaguppe Ramachandra , de la Fuente José , Ghosh Srikanta
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Globally, ticks rank second only to mosquitoes as vectors of deadly pathogens affecting humans and first in transmitting animal pathogens, presenting a significant challenge to human wellness and sustainability of livestock-based industries. Traditional tick control via chemical acaricides impacts on the environment and has led to the emergence of multi-acaricide-resistant tick populations. Use of immunoprophylactic, along with other components of integrated tick management, holds the potential to mitigate tick infestations in a sustainable manner. To control multi-species tick infestations, the concept of a cocktail vaccine comprising of more than one antigens has emerged as a viable solution due to the inconsistent efficacy of single antigen-based immunization protocol.

Methods

In this study, a dual antigen cocktail immunization protocol was developed targeting ferritin2 (FER2) and tropomyosin (TPM) proteins, which are associated with ticks’ essential cellular and physiological functions, like blood iron homeostasis and muscle contractions.

Results

Dual gene silencing of FER2 and TPM genes in Hyalomma anatolicum resulted in a 75.3% reduction in infested ticks, a 95.4% decrease in egg masses, and a complete loss of egg hatching when compared to control ticks. Microscopically, an altered ovarian cellular architecture, marked by vacuolation and reduced nucleus-to-cytoplasmic ratio were noted in the gene knocked down ticks. An immunization with cocktails of 300 µg dose of each protein, rHaFER2 and rHaTPM was standardized in a rat model and was used to immunize cross-bred (Bos indicus x B. taurus) male cattle with Montanide ISA 50V2 adjuvant on days 0, 28, and 49. A significant (p < 0.001) IgG and IgG2 antibody response was observed in the immunized animals with high IgG levels sustained until day 119 post-primary immunization, showing a 4.1-fold increase over the pre-immunization period. The animals were challenged with larvae and adults of H. anatolicum and larvae of Rhipicephalus microplus. Immunization with the cocktail antigen resulted an efficacy of 70% and 76% against H. anatolicum larvae and adults, respectively, and 54% against R. microplus infestations. Compared to single-antigen immunization, the immunization with cocktail antigens demonstrated higher protection against R. microplus and H. anatolicum ticks. The results advance the development of cocktail vaccines to control multiple tick species.
Alpha-1-antitrypsin as novel substrate for S. aureus’ Spl proteases – implications for virulence
Authors: Scherr Franziska , Darisipudi Murthy N. , Börner Friedemann R. , Austermeier Sophie , Hoffmann Franziska , Eberhardt Martin , Abdurrahman Goran , Saade Christopher , von Eggeling Ferdinand , Kasper Lydia , Holtfreter Silva , Bröker Barbara M. , Kiehntopf Michael
Published: November 2024

Background

The serine protease like (Spl) proteases of Staphylococcus aureus are a family of six proteases whose function and impact on virulence are poorly understood. Here we propose alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT), an important immunomodulatory serine protease inhibitor as target of SplD, E and F. AAT is an acute phase protein, interacting with many proteases and crucial for prevention of excess tissue damage by neutrophil elastase during the innate immune response to infections.

Methods

We used MALDI-TOF-MS to identify the cleavage site of Spl proteases within AAT’s reactive center loop (RCL) and LC-MS/MS to quantify the resulting peptide cleavage product in in vitro digestions of AAT and heterologous expressed proteases or culture supernatants from different S. aureus strains. We further confirmed proteolytic cleavage and formation of a covalent complex with Western Blots, investigated AAT’s inhibitory potential against Spls and examined the NETosis inhibitory activity of AAT-Spl-digestions.

Results

SplD, E and F, but not A or B, cleave AAT in its RCL, resulting in the release of a peptide consisting of AAT’s C-terminal 36 amino acids (C36). Synthetic C36, as well as AAT-SplD/E/F-digestions exhibit NETosis inhibition. Only SplE, but not D or F, was partly inhibited by AAT, forming a covalent complex.

Conclusion

We unraveled a new virulence trait of S. aureus, where SplD/E/F cleave and inactivate AAT while the cleavage product C36 inhibits NETosis.
Molecular cloning, expression analysis, and functional characterization of an interleukin-15 like gene in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: Jiang Xinyu , Wang Xiaoyu , Gao Mengjie , Li Xudong , Ding Yi , Song Yunjie , Xiao Hehe , Kong Xianghui
Published: November 2024

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a crucial cytokine involved in immune system regulation, which is produced by various cell types, including dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages. IL-15 plays a key role in the proliferation and activation of natural killer (NK) cells, CD8+ T cells, and memory CD8+ T cells, supporting their survival and enhancing their effector functions. Although IL-15 homologues in fish have been identified, their functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we cloned and investigated the bioactivities of an IL-15 homologue, referred to as IL-15 like (CcIL-15L), in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). An expression pattern analysis revealed that CcIL-15L was constitutively expressed in all examined tissues of healthy common carp, with the highest expression level observed in the intestine. Additionally, CcIL-15L expression was significantly up-regulated in the head kidney, spleen, gills, and intestine following Aeromonas hydrophila infection. In vitro, the recombinant protein CcIL-15L can significantly up-regulated the gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) and NK cell activation (perforin and Eomesa). We constructed a 3×FLAG eukaryotic expression vector and successfully expressed it in common carp by intramuscular injection. Additionally, the heterologous CcIL-15L protein was successfully overexpressed in vivo, and immune-related genes including CD4-1, CD8β2, TNF-α, and IgM showed significant induction in the head kidney and spleen. Furthermore, CcIL-15L overexpression reduced the bacterial loads after 24 h post-A. hydrophila infection in the liver, spleen, and kidney. Phagocytic and chemotaxis assays showed that rCcIL-15L could promoted the phagocytosis and chemotactic abilities of common carp HKLs. Our study provides a new perspective on the role for CcIL-15L in immunological functions in common carp.
Chitooligosaccharides improves intestinal mucosal immunity and intestinal microbiota in blue foxes
Authors: Wei Jiali , Su Jing , Wang Guiwu , Li Wei , Wen Zhengshun , Liu Huitao
Published: November 2024

Objective

Gut health is critical to the health of the host. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Chitooligosaccharides (COS) on intestinal morphology, intestinal barrier, intestinal immunity and cecum microbiota of blue foxes.

Methods

Seventy-two 125-day-old blue foxes were randomly divided into basal diet (BD) group, 200 ppm COS1 (1.5 kDa) group and 200 ppm COS2 (3 kDa) group for 8 weeks.

Results

We elucidated that dietary COS1 supplementation promoted the development of intestinal villus morphology in blue foxes. Importantly, COS1 increased the number of goblet cells in duodenum, jejunum and ileum by 27.71%, 23.67%, 14.97% and S-IgA secretion in duodenum, jejunum and ileum by 71.59% and 38.56%, and up-regulate the expression of Occludin and ZO-1 by 50.18% and 148.62%, respectively. Moreover, COS1 promoted the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory balance of small intestinal mucosa, and increased the diversity of cecum microbiota of blue foxes, especially Lactobacillus_agilis and Lactobacillus_murinus, and up-regulated the signaling pathways related to polysaccharide decomposition and utilization.

Conclusion

Here, we present dietary COS1 (1.5 kDa) can promote intestinal villus development, enhance intestinal barrier function, regulate intestinal immune balance and cecum microbiota homeostasis.
Transgender and gender diverse individuals embodying endometriosis: a systematic review
Authors: Giacomozzi Maddalena , Bouwens Jip , Aubin Stéphane Guy , Pastoor Hester , Verdonk Petra , Nap Annemiek
Published: November 2024

Background

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people embody social and health inequalities that disproportionately affect this community more than the cisgender population. Endometriosis is a chronic condition of the reproductive tract that affects 5–10% of cisgender women. A recent systematic review with meta-analysis uncovered a pooled prevalence of 25.14% among TGD individuals undergoing gender-affirming surgeries.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the causes of the gap in prevalence of endometriosis between the TGD community and the cisgender population.

Methods

A systematic review with a fit-for-framework analysis was conducted. Results were analysed according to the adjusted developmental framework for embodiment with an intersectional approach. Sources were categorised in multi-levels relating to the framework mechanisms of expression, shaping, interaction, and incorporation.

Results

Four hundred twenty-three (423) studies published between 2001 and 2024 in English and Spanish were identified on the PubMed, Web of Science, Sociological abstracts, and PsycInfo databases. Thirty-two (32) peer-reviewed sources were selected.

Discussion

The higher prevalence of endometriosis among TGD people compared to the cisgender population reflects a complex phenomenon whereby individual biomedical characteristics, and psychological and environmental factors interplay on multiple levels throughout one’s lifespan. The prevalence gap is striking in a context where TGD people experience great barriers and delays to access healthcare, and endometriosis is typically understood as a “women’s disease.” TGD people express lifestyle and environmental factors correlated with endometriosis more often than cisgender women, such as history of trauma, low self-image, obesity. Endometriosis interacts with one’s quality of life, and especially with gendered expectations related to menstruations, family planning and sexuality. This interference can result in biographical disruption and gender self-perception changes in both cisgender and TGD people. Exogenous testosterone use as gender-affirming therapy results in amenorrhea in 80% of cases. However, endometrium and follicular activities are still reported upon testosterone use suggesting endometriosis may be active. It is hypothesised that testosterone use could lead to a hyper-estrogenic state that would stimulate endometriosis proliferation.
Case report: Detection of non-O1/non-O139 Vibrio cholerae in a patient with hepatic space-occupying lesions using metagenomic next-generation sequencing
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xiao Li , Shan Xingxing , Dai Bing , Tang Chunyan , Xian Jianchun , Yu Yan
Published: November 2024

Introduction/background

Vibrio cholerae is the causative agent of the human intestinal infectious disease cholera, which includes a variety of serogroups. However, there have been very few cases of hepatic space-occupying lesions associated with this infection. Currently, there are various methods for detecting this pathogen, including metagenomic sequencing, which enables quicker and more accurate identification. In this study, metagenomic sequencing is employed to accurately identify non-O1/O139 Vibrio cholerae infections by analyzing the genetic material present in clinical samples.

Presentation of case

A 75-year-old man presented with diarrhea and fever after consuming crabs. The initial treatment improved the diarrhea, but a liver abscess developed later. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the liver revealed a hepatic space-occupying lesion. Upon further investigation, a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium was cultured from the patient’s liver puncture fluid, and Vibrio cholerae was detected in the same fluid using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). The pathogen was confirmed to be non-O1/non-O139 Vibrio cholerae (NOVC) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Following treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam sodium and moxifloxacin, the patient’s body temperature returned to normal, the liver abscess improved significantly, and he was subsequently discharged from the hospital.

Discussion

This case study describes an elderly male patient with a hepatic space-occupying lesion. Multiple cultures of specimens failed to identify the underlying cause; however, advanced techniques such as mNGS and PCR confirmed an NOVC infection. This indicates that mNGS can serve as a valuable tool in diagnosing cases of unexplained liver infections.

Conclusion

The use of mNGS is significant for detecting and clinically diagnosing infectious pathogens in patients with unexplained space-occupying lesions.
Enhancing trehalose production via Bacillus species G1 cyclodextrin glucanotransferase mutants: modifying disproportionation characteristics and thermal stability
Authors: Miao Bobo , Huang Di , Wang Tengfei , Liu Hongling , Hao Zhifeng , Yuan Haibo , Jiang Yi
Published: November 2024

Inefficient conversion of small molecule maltooligosaccharides into trehalose greatly affects the cost of the production of trehalose by double enzyme method [maltooligosyl trehalose synthase (MTSase) and maltooligosyl trehalose trehalohyrolase (MTHase)]. This study used directed evolution to increase oligosaccharide utilization by the cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase) from Bacillus species G1. This enzyme was chosen for its adaptability and stability in trehalose production. Model analysis revealed that the hydrogen bond distance between the N33K mutant and maltose reduced from 2.6 Å to 2.3 Å, increasing maltose affinity and boosting transglycosylation activity by 2.1-fold compared to the wild type. Further mutations improved thermal stability and optimum temperature, resulting in the N33K/S211G mutant. Consistent results from repeated experiments showed that the N33K/S211G mutant increased trehalose yield by 32.6% using maltodextrin. The results enhanced the double-enzyme method formed by MTSase and MTHase for trehalose production. Overall, we have identified optimal catalytic conditions, demonstrating significant potential for industrial-scale trehalose production with enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Early minimally invasive image-guided eNdoscopic evacuation of iNTracerebral hemorrhage: a phase II pilot trial
Authors: Hallenberger Tim Jonas , Fischer Urs , Ghosh Nilabh , Kuhle Jens , Guzman Raphael , Bonati Leo Hermann , Soleman Jehuda
Published: November 2024

Background

Whether minimally invasive endoscopic surgery (ES) improves survival and functional outcome in people with spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage (SSICH) is unknown.

Methods

This is a single-center pilot study performed between July 2021 to January 2023. Any supratentorial hematoma with a volume between 20 mL and 100 mL was endoscopically evacuated within 24 h after bleeding onset. Participants were followed-up for 6 months, assessing clinical and radiological outcomes. The primary feasibility outcome was satisfactory hematoma removal (<15 mL residual volume on the first postinterventional CT study) and the primary efficacy outcome was reaching a modified Rankin Scale 0–3 (mRS) at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were mortality and morbidity rates.

Results

Ten participants (median age 72.5 years [IQR 67–81], 70% male, median baseline hematoma volume 34.1 [IQR 25.5–58.0]) were included. Satisfactory hematoma evacuation was achieved in 70% (7/10) with a median evacuation percentage of 69.5% [IQR 45.3–93.9%]. The median duration of surgery was 91 min [IQR 73–111]. Favorable outcome at 6 months was observed in 60% of the participants and improved from within 24 h before the intervention to the last follow-up (6 months). Five participants (50%) experienced a total of six complications, two recurrent bleedings, three pneumonias and one epilepsy. Mortality rate was 30%, while one participant died from pneumonia, one from a recurrent bleeding, and one participant due to a glioblastoma.

Conclusion

ES appears to be feasible, with satisfactory hematoma removal being achieved in the majority of participants. Based on the descriptive results of this pilot trial, a national multicenter RCT comparing ES to best medical treatment is currently ongoing

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT05681988.
Age-related changes in pupil dynamics and task modulation across the healthy lifespan
Authors: Huang Jeff , Smorenburg Matthew L. , Yep Rachel , Riek Heidi C. , Calancie Olivia G. , Kirkpatrick Ryan H. , Brien Donald C. , Coe Brian C. , Wang Chin-An , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: November 2024

The pupil is modulated by luminance, arousal, bottom-up sensory, and top-down cognitive signals, and has increasingly been used to assess these aspects of brain functioning in health and disease. However, changes in pupil dynamics across the lifespan have not been extensively examined, hindering our ability to fully utilize the pupil in probing these underlying neural processes in development and aging in healthy and clinical cohorts. Here, we examined pupil responses during the interleaved pro−/anti-saccade task (IPAST) in healthy participants across the lifespan (n = 567, 5–93 years of age). Based on the extracted measurements of pupil dynamics, we demonstrated age-related changes in pupil measures and task modulation. Moreover, we characterized the underlying factors and age-related effects in components of pupil responses that may be attributed to developmental and aging changes in the associated brain regions. Finally, correlations between factors of pupil dynamics and saccade behaviors revealed evidence of shared neural processes in the pupil and saccade control circuitries. Together, these results demonstrate changes in pupil dynamics as a result of development and aging, providing a baseline with which altered pupil responses due to neurological deficits at different ages can be studied.
Prognostic significance and gene co-expression network of CD16A and FGL2 in gliomas
Authors: Cao Ziwen , Liu Xing , Yan Jun
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The CD16A protein encoding gene FcγRIIIa (FCGR3A) and its potential ligand Fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2) are involved in various cell physiological activities on the extracellular surface. Aberrant expression of these genes has been linked to tumorigenesis.

Methods

To assess the prognostic significance of FCGR3A and FGL2 transcription expression in glioma and explore their roles in glioma initiation and progression, we utilized multiple online databases, including TCGA, GEPIA, CGGA, cBioPortal, TISCH, LinkedOmics, Ivy Glioblastoma Atlas Project, and Human Protein Atlas.

Results

Our analysis revealed that FCGR3A and FGL2 expression was significantly correlated with clinical variables such as age, tumor type, WHO grade, histology, IDH-1 mutation, and 1p19q status. A strong correlation was also observed between the transcriptional expression levels of FCGR3A and FGL2. High expression of both genes predicted poor prognosis in primary and recurrent glioma patients, particularly those with lower grade gliomas. Cox regression analysis further confirmed that elevated expression of FCGR3A and FGL2 were independent prognostic factors for shorter overall survival in glioma patients. Gene co-expression network analysis suggested that FCGR3A, FGL2, and their co-expressed genes were involved in inflammatory activities and tumor-related signaling pathways. Additionally, tissue microarrays from glioma patients at Tiantan Hospital showed significantly higher FCGR3A protein expression in high-grade gliomas compared to low-grade gliomas.

Discussion

In conclusion, our findings suggest that FCGR3A and FGL2 could serve as promising prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for glioma patients.