bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is the Personal Health Knowledge Level of Grade VI Students? An Investigation of Grade VI Students at Mangunharjo Elementary School
Authors: Nopiyanto Yahya Eko , Ibrahim Ibrahim
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of personal health knowledge of class VI students at SD Mangunharjo. The method used is descriptive quantitative. The population and research sample were all 18 students of class VI at SD Mangunharjo. The data collection technique uses a questionnaire consisting of 6 indicators. Data analysis technique uses descriptive quantitative by calculating the mean value and standard deviation. The results of the study stated that the level of student knowledge in terms of personal hygiene indicators was in the moderate category, the indicators of regular living habits were in the moderate category, the food indicators were in the moderate category, environmental hygiene was in the medium category, disease prevention was in the moderate category, and health examination is in the moderate category. It can be concluded that the level of personal health knowledge of class VI students at SD Mangunharjo is in the moderate category.
The Analysis of Borneo FC 1ST Indonesian League Football Player Body Compotition
Authors: Sudari Sudari , Siswanto Hendro , Pamungkas Hari , Yusuf Havid , Saputro Yulianto Dwi
Published: December 2023

Proper body composition is an important role in sports performance that is not optimal can reduce the athlete's physical fitness so that the performance decrease when competition occur. Professional soccer players often work closely with a team of coaches, nutritionists and medical professionals who can help them plan the right nutrition and training strategies suitable for the Borneo FC team, the participants in Indonesia's highest league caste. The average body fat of 12.4% is in the very good category, the BMR with an average of 1636 kcal belongs to the normal category, the free fat mass index (FFMI) averages 61 in the good category and the total body water (TBW) with an average of 65% is included in the normal category. The body composition of Borneo FC soccer players can be stated that 67.8% body fat is in the very good category, 85.7% body metabolism rate (bmr) is normal, 42.8% free fat mass index is good and total body water is 100% normal. These results can be used as a reference in determining the nutrition and nutrition program for each player so that the condition of the body composition of the players can be maintained and balanced.
Emotional Intelligence and Eating Disorders: Comparison by Gender in Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: Astuti Galuh Puji , Fitri Mustika , Williyanto Septian
Published: December 2023

Emotional intelligence is necessary to manage emotions and feelings to have a positive impact on mental health. This study examines emotional intelligence and eating disorders in taekwondo athletes. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence and eating disorders with mental health disorders in taekwondo athletes and to provide gender-specific comparisons. A quantitative  sample of 29 taekwondo athletes aged 13-17 was used as a research method. The  Trait Emotional Intelligence Adolescent Short Form model was used to measure emotional intelligence and the EAT-26 model was used to measure eating disorders. The data analysis technique uses a correlation test. Based on data processing and analysis  using SPSS, the results show a relationship between emotional intelligence and eating disorders in 13-17-year-old male taekwondo athletes, and there was no relationship between emotional intelligence and eating disorders in female taekwondo athletes. The conclusion of this research is that there is a negative and significant relationship between emotional intelligence and eating disorders in adolescent taekwondo athletes.
Utopian and Dystopian Sociotechnical Imaginaries of Big Data
Authors: Marčetić Hana , Nolin Jan
Published: December 2023

Data feminism, a way of thinking about and “doing” data utilizing feminist tools and perspectives, has emerged in recent years as a part of a critical discourse surrounding datafication. The aim of this study is to analyze and identify shared perceptions of big data as expressed in a corpus of scholarly writings published in the domain of data studies and data feminism. We analyzed a set of 44 scholarly texts engaging in feminism concerned with the concept of big data. For the purpose of this article, we refer to this set of texts as data feminism and examine how authors frame and describe big data. We compare future visions in data feminist material with policies by the European Commission and explore what tensions arise among them. Furthermore, we explore and delineate social and political alternatives that emerge from data feminist texts. Both corpora describe futures inclusive of big data and imagine possible positive outcomes from different perspectives and with different ideas of the current role of big data. We found that sociotechnical imaginaries of big data within the data feminist corpus are considerably richer and more nuanced than those of the European Commission. In the data feminist corpus, big data is described as a multiplicity of things and often implicated in perpetuating power imbalances and large societal issues. The European Commission corpus employs the perspective of “data as a resource” to be exploited.
A Systematic Literature Review of Predictors of Social Media Popularity
Authors: Woods Joshua
Published: December 2023

A growing area of research has examined the individual behaviors and social antecedents that enable and constrain the popularity of social media users. This systematic review gathers and summarizes 68 naturalistic studies that measure popularity based on users’ reach (e.g., followers, fans and subscribers) or engagement (e.g., likes, comments and shares) on multiple platforms. It draws on Barnlund’s (2008) transactional model of communication to organize the literature and provides a roadmap for future research by identifying areas of the research that are characterized by consensus and disagreement. It also reveals a gap in the literature. Previous research focuses on communication strategies that maximize reach and engagement and provides less evidence of social structural influences on popularity. More research is needed to understand how the social, economic, and cultural characteristics of users affect their success
Binomial Series without Binomial Coefficients
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, the growing complexity of mathematical and computational modelling demands the simplicity of mathematical equations for solving today’s scientific problems and challenges. Also, the computational science is a rapidly growing interdisciplinary area where science, computation, mathematics, and its collaboration use advanced computing capabilities for understanding and solving the most complex real-life problems. For this purpose, a novel binomial series is introduced for mathematical and computational applications.
COMMENTS Rais R. Shakirov, Oleg Yu. Karpukhin, Marat I. Ziganshin, Ivan S. Raginov Granular cell tumor of the perineum (clinical case)
Authors: Mainovskaya O. A.
Published: December 2023

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Assessment of inflammation activity in the small and large bowel using the MaRIAs index for Crohn’s disease
Authors: Michalchenko V. A. , Zarodnyuk I. V. , Belov D. M. , Veselov V. V. , Nanaeva B. A.
Published: December 2023

Aim: to evaluate diagnostic value of magnetic resonance enterocolonography (MR-enterocolonography) with the use of the segmental index MaRIAs (Simplified Magnetic Resonance Index of Activity) for inflammation activity in small and large intestine colon compared with ileocolonoscopy.

Patients and Methods: the prospective cohort study included 58 patients with Crohn’s disease aged 19–45 years. All patients underwent MR-enterocolonography with intravenous contrast and ileocolonoscopy. MR-enterocolonography assessed inflammatory activity in the large and small intestine (406 segments) using the MaRIAs index (segmental). MRI data were compared with ileocolonoscopy.

Results: ileocolonoscopy showed no signs of inflammatory activity in 71 (71/406, 17.5%) segments. In 168 (168/406, 41.3%) segments endoscopic signs of low or moderate inflammatory activity were detected, in 167 (167/406, 41.2%) segments inflammatory activity with the presence of ulcers were detected. MR-enterocolonography did not detect any activity in 121 (121/406, 29.8%) segments (0 points by MaRIAs index), in 285 (285/406, 70.2%) segments, the inflammation activity was revealed by MaRIAs index from 1 to 5 points. There was a moderate agreement (Cohen’s Kappa: 0.57) between the data of MR-enterocolonography and ileocolonoscopy in detection of affected segments. ROC analysis revealed that with the value of the MaRIAs index (segmental) of 1 point or more with sensitivity of 82.0% and specificity of 92.0% (AUC 0.85), it is possible to consider the presence of inflammatory activity of any severity, and with index value of 2 points or more with sensitivity of 75.0% and specificity of 91.0% (AUC 0.91) can diagnose the severe inflammation with ulcers.

Conclusion: the results obtained revealed the value of MaRIAs index and the further study to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative treatment of Crohn’s disease is needed.
Complex neurophysiological algorithm for pudendal nerve neuropathy for descending perineum syndrome
Authors: Fomenko O. Yu. , Mudrov A. A. , Belousova S. V. , Nekrasov M. A. , Achkasov S. I
Published: December 2023

Aim: to improve diagnostics for descending perineum syndrome.

Patients and Methods: the prospective cohort study included 127 patients (85 (66.9%) — females), aged 49.9 ± 14.4 years with descending perineum syndrome. All patients had proctogenic constipation, anal incontinence and/or chronic neurogenic pelvic pain. All patients underwent a neurophysiological examination according to the original complex pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML) method — neurophysiological protocol for detection of the pelvic floor muscles innervation disorders.

Results: the latency of the M-response of the pudendal nerve increased on at least one side in 85 (66.9%) patients (50 women and 35 men). The use of a new complex neurophysiological diagnostic protocol made it possible to identify signs of pudendal neuropathy in 29.9% of patients. The incidence of neuropathy in patients with clinically significant perineal prolapse syndrome was 96.5% in females and 97.6% in males.

Conclusion: the new complex neurophysiological diagnostic algorithm made it possible to identify disorders of innervation along the efferent pathway in the Alcock’s canal and distally in 85 (66.9%) cases, along the efferent pathway proximal to the Alcock’s canal — in 23 (18.1%); a combination of efferent and afferent disturbances occurred in 15 (11.8%).
Robotic-assisted percutaneous coronary intervention: experience in Switzerland
Authors: Häner Jonas D. , Räber Lorenz , Moro Christina , Losdat Sylvain , Windecker Stephan
Published: December 2023

Aims of the study

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) exposes operators to ionizing radiation. Robotic-assisted PCI (RA-PCI) is a novel technology that enables interventional cardiologists to operate coronary devices remotely from a radiation-shed cockpit. The aim of this study is to describe the experience and challenges during the initiation of a RA-PCI program and to report outcomes of the first 21 patients undergoing RA-PCI in Switzerland.

Methods

All patients undergoing RA-PCI using the CorPath GRX Vascular Robotic System between 06/2021 and 12/2021 at Inselspital, Bern University Hospital were included in this retrospective registry study. Baseline, procedural and clinical follow-up data were prospectively assessed as part of the Cardiobase Bern PCI registry (NCT02241291). The two endpoints of interest were clinical success [defined as <30% residual diameter stenosis in the absence of in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: composite of death, periprocedural myocardial infarction, target-vessel revascularization, and stroke)] and robotic success (defined as clinical success and completion of RA-PCI without or with partial manual assistance). Additional outcome measures include clinical long-term outcomes at one year.

Results

Twenty-five lesions in 21 patients were treated with RA-PCI (age 62.4 ± 9.1 years, 24% female). Clinical success was achieved in 100%, and robotic success in 81% (17/21 procedures, including 4 procedures requiring partial manual assistance). Manual conversion (e.g. manual completion of the procedure) occurred in 19% (4 procedures). Reasons for manual assistance or conversion were poor guiding-catheter back-up or platform limitations (4), adverse events (2x transient slow-flow that was solved manually), safety decision (1x vasovagal reaction not related to robotic approach), and software error (1). No in-hospital MACE occurred. During 12 months of follow-up, one patient suffered a non-target-vessel myocardial infarction requiring repeat PCI.

Conclusions

RA-PCI can safely be performed without clinically relevant robot-associated complications in selected patients with approximately 80% of procedures conducted without or with partial manual assistance.
Revisiting tools in numeracy learning: the role of authentic digital tools
Authors: Sakurai Justine , Goos Merrilyn
Published: December 2023

This conceptual analysis paper argues for an expansion to the definition of tools in Goos et al. model of numeracy. As the digitalization of society progresses at an ever-quickening pace, mathematical processes that were once considered only necessary for higher level occupations and tasks are now everyday requirements for successful participation in modern life and workplaces. Mathematical acts are routinely undertaken on a normal day because of the technology we use in daily life. For example, the act of driving a car has a mathematical basis; the driver has awareness of the location of the destination, reads multiple instruments and indicators including speed and fuel consumption, and interprets digital maps or navigation aids. Authentic digital tools and devices that are used in the real world that undertake mathematical processes can change the mathematics that is to be done. Rapid developments in mathematical technology, alongside the ubiquity of digital devices, the broad scope of functions and ease of use, has advanced the mathematical processes that digital tools can perform. The specificity and functionality of current digital tools can influence both the approach to and the application of the mathematics. To keep pace with society trends and demands, the tools used in the teaching and learning of numeracy should reflect the level of mathematical knowledge and skills required for successful participation in 21st Century life. Given that the digitalization of tools means they are no longer bound by time and space, they can be shared instantaneously. This agile ease of use suggests these tools may be suitable for use in the classroom. It is important therefore that educators find pedagogical ways to use real-world digital tools in authentic ways. This paper explores the current definition of numeracy tools found in literature and curricula and considers an expansion to the definition to fit with current technological directions. A model for implementation will be considered, and a suggested evaluation of the expanded model as a vehicle for learning numeracy is proposed.
Insight into the mechanism of gallstone disease by proteomic and metaproteomic characterization of human bile
Authors: Yang Xue-Ting , Wang Jie , Jiang Ying-Hua , Zhang Lei , Du Ling , Li Jun , Liu Feng
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Cholesterol gallstone disease is a prevalent condition that has a significant economic impact. However, the role of the bile microbiome in its development and the host’s responses to it remain poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of microbial and human bile proteins in 40 individuals with either gallstone disease or gallbladder polyps. We employed a combined proteomic and metaproteomic approach, as well as meta-taxonomic analysis, functional pathway enrichment, and Western blot analyses.

Results

Our metaproteomic analysis, utilizing the lowest common ancestor algorithm, identified 158 microbial taxa in the bile samples. We discovered microbial taxa that may contribute to gallstone formation, including β-glucuronidase-producing bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Clostridium, as well as those involved in biofilm formation like Helicobacter, Cyanobacteria, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, and Clostridium. Furthermore, we identified 2,749 human proteins and 87 microbial proteins with a protein false discovery rate (FDR) of 1% and at least 2 distinct peptides. Among these proteins, we found microbial proteins crucial to biofilm formation, such as QDR3, ompA, ndk, pstS, nanA, pfIB, and dnaK. Notably, QDR3 showed a gradual upregulation from chronic to acute cholesterol gallstone disease when compared to polyp samples. Additionally, we discovered other microbial proteins that enhance bacterial virulence and gallstone formation by counteracting host oxidative stress, including sodB, katG, rbr, htrA, and ahpC. We also identified microbial proteins like lepA, rtxA, pckA, tuf, and tpiA that are linked to bacterial virulence and potential gallstone formation, with lepA being upregulated in gallstone bile compared to polyp bile. Furthermore, our analysis of the host proteome in gallstone bile revealed enhanced inflammatory molecular profiles, including innate immune molecules against microbial infections. Gallstone bile exhibited overrepresented pathways related to blood coagulation, folate metabolism, and the IL-17 pathway. However, we observed suppressed metabolic activities, particularly catabolic metabolism and transport activities, in gallstone bile compared to polyp bile. Notably, acute cholelithiasis bile demonstrated significantly impaired metabolic activities compared to chronic cholelithiasis bile.

Conclusion

Our study provides a comprehensive metaproteomic analysis of bile samples related to gallstone disease, offering new insights into the microbiome-host interaction and gallstone formation mechanism.
Serum ammonia variation predicts mortality in patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure
Authors: Cai Yi-Jing , Dong Jia-Jia , Chen Rui-Cong , Xiao Qian-Qian , Li Xu-Mei , Chen De-Yuan , Cai Chao , Lin Xiu-Li , Shi Ke-Qing , Lu Ming-Qin
Published: December 2023

Background

Hyperammonemia is critical to the development of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and is associated with mortality in end-stage liver disease. This study investigated the clinical value of ammonia variation in hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) patients.

Methods

A total of 276 patients with HBV-ACLF were retrospectively recruited. Patients' ammonia levels were serially documented. Baseline ammonia, Peak ammonia (highest level), and Trough ammonia (lowest level) were particularly corrected to the upper limit of normal (AMM-ULN). The primary endpoint was 28-day mortality.

Results

The 28-day, 3-month, and 12-month mortality rates were 19.2, 25.7, and 28.2%, respectively. A total of 51 (18.4%) patients had overt HE (grade 2/3/4). Peak AMM-ULN was significantly higher in patients with overt HE and non-survivors compared with their counterparts (P < 0.001). Following adjustment for significant confounders, high Peak AMM-ULN was an independent predictor of overt HE (hazard ratio, 1.031, P < 0.001) and 28-day mortality (hazard ratio, 1.026, P < 0.001). The cut-off of Peak AMM-ULN was 1.8, determined by using the X-tile. Patients with Peak AMM-ULN appearing on days 1–3 after admission had a higher proportion of overt HE and mortality compared to other groups. Patients with decreased ammonia levels within 7 days had better clinical outcomes than those with increased ammonia.

Conclusion

Serum Peak ammonia was independently associated with overt HE and mortality in HBV-ACLF patients. Serial serum ammonia may have prognostic value.
Investigating the antidiabetic efficacy of dairy-derived Lacticaseibacillus paracasei probiotic strains: modulating α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme functions
Authors: Huligere Sujay S. , Kumari V B Chandana , Desai Sudhanva M. , Wong Ling Shing , Firdose Nagma , Ramu Ramith
Published: December 2023

The current study aims to evaluate and characterize the probiotic andantidiabetic properties of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) obtained from milk and other dairy-based products. The strains were tested physiologically, biochemically, and molecularly. Based on biochemical tests and 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing, all three isolates RAMULAB18, RAMULAB19, and RAMULAB53 were identified as Lacticaseibacillus paracasei with homology similarity of more than 98%. The inhibitory potential of each isolate against carbohydrate hydrolysis enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) was assessed using three different preparations of RAMULAB (RL) isolates: the supernatant (RL-CS), intact cells (RL-IC), and cell-free extraction (RL-CE). Additionally, the isolate was evaluated for its antioxidant activity against free radicals (DPPH and ABTS). The strain’s RL-CS, RL-CE, and RL-IC inhibited α-amylase (17.25 to 55.42%), α-glucosidase (15.08–59.55%), DPPH (56.42–87.45%), and ABTS (46.35–78.45%) enzymes differently. With the highest survival rate (>98%) toward tolerance to gastrointestinal conditions, hydrophobicity (>42.18%), aggregation (>74.21%), as well as attachment to an individual’s colorectal cancer cell line (HT-29) (>64.98%), human buccal and chicken crop epithelial cells, all three isolates exhibited extensive results. All three isolates exhibited high resistance toward antibiotics (methicillin, kanamycin, cefixime, and vancomycin), and other assays such as antibacterial, DNase, hemolytic, and gelatinase were performed for safety assessment. Results suggest that the LAB described are valuable candidates for their significant health benefits and that they can also be utilized as a beginning or bio-preservative tradition in the food, agriculture, and pharmaceutical sectors. The LAB isolates are excellent in vitro probiotic applicants and yet additional in vivo testing is required.
Comparative analysis of human respiratory syncytial virus evolutionary patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-pandemic periods
Authors: Guo Chi-yu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yu-yue , Zhao Wei , Peng Xiang-lei , Zheng Yan-peng , Fu Yuan-hui , Yu Jie-mei , He Jin-sheng
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the implementation of strict mitigation measures that have impacted the transmission dynamics of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV). The measures also have the potential to influence the evolutionary patterns of the virus. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis comparing genomic variations and evolving characteristics of its neutralizing antigens, specifically F and G proteins, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings showed that both HRSV A and B exhibited an overall chronological evolutionary pattern. For the sequences obtained during the pandemic period (2019–2022), we observed that the HRSV A distributed in A23 genotype, but formed into three subclusters; whereas the HRSV B sequences were relatively concentrated within genotype B6. Additionally, multiple positively selected sites were detected on F and G proteins but none were located at neutralizing antigenic sites of the F protein. Notably, amino acids within antigenic site III, IV, and V of F protein remained strictly conserved, while some substitutions occurred over time on antigenic site Ø, I, II and VIII; substitution S389P on antigenic site I of HRSV B occurred during the pandemic period with nearly 50% frequency. However, further analysis revealed no substitutions have altered the structural conformations of the antigenic sites, the vial antigenicity has not been changed. We inferred that the intensive public health interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic did not affect the evolutionary mode of HRSV.
Extracellular vesicles in the breast cancer brain metastasis: physiological functions and clinical applications
Authors: Sakamoto Yuima , Ochiya Takahiro , Yoshioka Yusuke
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer, which exhibits an increasing incidence and high mortality rate among cancers, is predominantly attributed to metastatic malignancies. Brain metastasis, in particular, significantly contributes to the elevated mortality in breast cancer patients. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid bilayer vesicles secreted by various cells that contain biomolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins. They deliver these bioactive molecules to recipient cells, thereby regulating signal transduction and protein expression levels. The relationship between breast cancer metastasis and EVs has been extensively investigated. In this review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms by which EVs promote brain metastasis in breast cancer. Additionally, we discuss the potential of EV-associated molecules as therapeutic targets and their relevance as early diagnostic markers for breast cancer brain metastasis.
Circadian lifestyle determinants of immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy
Authors: Hughes Bethan R. , Shanaz Sadiq , Ismail-Sutton Seline , Wreglesworth Nicholas I. , Subbe Christian P. , Innominato Pasquale F.
Published: December 2023

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionised cancer care in recent years. Despite a global improvement in the efficacy and tolerability of systemic anticancer treatments, a sizeable proportion of patients still do not benefit maximally from ICI. Extensive research has been undertaken to reveal the immune- and cancer-related mechanisms underlying resistance and response to ICI, yet more limited investigations have explored potentially modifiable lifestyle host factors and their impact on ICI efficacy and tolerability. Moreover, multiple trials have reported a marked and coherent effect of time-of-day ICI administration and patients’ outcomes. The biological circadian clock indeed temporally controls multiple aspects of the immune system, both directly and through mediation of timing of lifestyle actions, including food intake, physical exercise, exposure to bright light and sleep. These factors potentially modulate the immune response also through the microbiome, emerging as an important mediator of a patient’s immune system. Thus, this review will look at critically amalgamating the existing clinical and experimental evidence to postulate how modifiable lifestyle factors could be used to improve the outcomes of cancer patients on immunotherapy through appropriate and individualised entrainment of the circadian timing system and temporal orchestration of the immune system functions.
Evaluation of the shear bond strength of a tricalcium silicate-based material to four self-adhering glass ionomer materials: an in vitro study
Authors: BinSaleh Saad , Sulimany Ayman M. , Aldowsari Mannaa K. , Al-Homaidhi Majedah , Alkuait Nour , Almashham Lama , Alghamdi Nada
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of EQUIA Forte HT with that of other restorative materials, including EQUIA Forte, glass ionomer cement (GIC), and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) when bonded to NeoMTA 2.

Materials and methods

A total of 120 holes were created in Teflon molds and filled with NeoMTA 2. The restorative materials were immediately applied using customized silicone molds. The samples were randomly divided into two main groups: one to measure the immediate SBS and the other to measure the delayed SBS. These two main groups were further divided into four subgroups based on the restorative material used: EQUIA Forte HT, EQUIA Forte, GIC, and RMGIC.

Results

The study groups showed statistically significant differences in the mean SBS (p < 0.0001). The immediate SBS of the RMGIC group (mean ± SD: 5.43 ± 1.22) was significantly higher than those of the GIC and EQUIA Forte groups, with no significant difference found compared to the SBS of EQUIA Forte HT. In the delayed SBS, both the RMGIC and EQUIA Forte HT groups (4.98 ± 0.67 and 4.93 ± 0.60, respectively) demonstrated significantly higher bond strengths than the GIC and EQUIA Forte groups (3.81 ± 0.57 and 4.2 ± 0.63, respectively). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the RMGIC and EQUIA Forte HT groups or between the GIC and EQUIA Forte groups.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, EQUIA Forte HT has shown promising outcomes when used as a restorative material following pulpotomies, with results comparable to those of RMGIC.
Imperatorin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis via GDF15 expression
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Fang , Chen Yen-Chang , Li Ya-Zhen , Wu Chen-Teng , Chang Pei-Chun , Yeh Wei-Lan
Published: December 2023

Background: Pulmonary fibrosis features in damaged pulmonary structure or over-produced extracellular matrix and impaired lung function, leading to respiratory failure and eventually death. Fibrotic lungs are characterized by the secretion of pro-fibrotic factors, transformation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, and accumulation of matrix proteins.

Hypothesis/purpose: Imperatorin shows anti-inflammatory effects on alveolar macrophages against acute lung injury. We attempt to evaluate the properties of imperatorin on the basis of fibroblasts.

Methods: In in vitro, zymosan was introduced to provoke pro-fibrotic responses in NIH/3T3 or MRC-5 pulmonary fibroblasts. Imperatorin was given for examining its effects against fibrosis. The mice were stimulated by bleomycin, and imperatorin was administered to evaluate the prophylactic potential in vivo.

Results: The upregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen protein due to zymosan introduction was decreased by imperatorin in fibroblasts. Zymosan induced the activity of transglutaminase 2 (TGase2) and lysyl oxidase (LOX), which was also inhibited by the administration of imperatorin. Imperatorin alone enhanced sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activity and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) secretion in fibroblasts via LKB1/AMPK/CREB pathways. In addition, GDF15 exerted a beneficial effect by reducing the protein expression of CTGF, α-SMA, and collagen and the activities of TGase and LOX. Moreover, orally administered imperatorin showed prophylactic effects on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice.

Conclusion: Imperatorin reduces fibrotic marker expression in fibroblasts and also increases GDF15 secretion via the LKB1/AMPK/CREB pathway, attenuating pro-fibrotic responses in vitro. Imperatorin also alleviates pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin in vivo.
Risk-based regionalization approach for area-wide management of HLB vectors in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Galvañ Anaïs , Bassanezi Renato Beozzo , Luo Weiqi , Vanaclocha Pilar , Vicent Antonio , Lázaro Elena
Published: December 2023

Huanglongbing (HLB) is one of the most devastating citrus diseases worldwide. It is associated with the non-culture bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter spp., which can be transmitted by grafting and/or the psyllid vectors Diaphorina citri (ACP) and Trioza erytreae (AfCP). Although HLB has not been reported in the Mediterranean Basin to date, both vectors are present, and thus represent a serious threat to the citrus industry in this region. Resistant citrus cultivars or effective therapeutic treatments are not currently available for HLB. Nevertheless, area-wide pest management via coordinated management efforts over large areas has been implemented in Brazil, China and the USA for HLB control. This study proposes an open access flexible methodology to address area-wide management of both HLB vectors in the Mediterranean Basin. Based on a risk-based approach which considers climatic information and other variables that may influence vector introduction and spread, such as conventional, organic, abandoned and residential citrus areas as well as transportation corridors, an area-wide management division in pest management areas (PMAs) is proposed. The size and location of these PMAs were estimated by means of a hierarchical clustering algorithm with spatial constraints whose performance was assessed under different configuration scenarios. This proposal may assist policymakers and the citrus industry of the citrus-growing areas of the Mediterranean Basin in risk management planning in the case of the spread of HLB vectors or a possible introduction of the disease. Additionally, it may be a valuable resource to inform opinion dynamic models, enabling the identification of pivotal factors for the success of control measures.
A review of factors influencing sensitive skin: an emphasis on built environment characteristics
Authors: Chen Xiangfeng , Wen Jing , Wu Wenjuan , Peng Qiuzhi , Cui Xiangfen , He Li
Published: December 2023

Background

Sensitive skin (SS) is a condition characterized by hyperreactivity. Impacting around 37 percent of the worldwide population and exerting an influence on the quality of life for affected individuals. Its prevalence rate has increased due to factors such as elevating stress levels and deteriorating environmental conditions. The exposome factors influencing SS have extended from demographic, biological attributes, and lifestyle to external environments. Built environments (BEs) have demonstrated as root drivers for changes in behaviors and environmental exposure which have the potential to trigger SS, but the review of the associations between BEs and SS is currently lacking.

Objective

This review aims to achieve two primary objectives: (1) Examine exposome factors that exert influence on SS at the individual and environmental levels. (2) Develop a theoretical framework that establishes a connection between BEs and SS, thereby offering valuable insights into the impact of the built environment on this condition.

Methods

An extensive literature search was carried out across multiple fields, including sociology, epidemiology, basic medicine, clinical medicine, and environmental research, with a focus on SS. To identify pertinent references, renowned databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI were utilized.

Results

SS is the outcome of interactions between individual attributes and environmental factors. These influencing factors can be categorized into five distinct classes: (1) demographic and socioeconomic characteristics including age, gender, and race; (2) physiological and biological attributes such as emotional changes, skin types, sleep disorders, and menstrual cycles in women; (3) behavioral factors, such as spicy diet, cosmetic use, alcohol consumption, and physical exercise; (4) natural environmental features, including climate conditions and air pollution; (5) built environmental features such as population density, green space availability, road network density, and access to public transportation, also have the potential to affect the condition.

Conclusion

The importance of interdisciplinary integration lies in its ability to ascertain whether and how BEs are impacting SS. By elucidating the role of BEs in conjunction with other factors in the onset of SS, we can provide guidance for future research endeavors and the formulation of interventions aimed at mitigating the prevalence of SS.
Mechanical Design and Experiments of a New Rotational Variable Stiffness Actuator for Hybrid Passive–Active Stiffness Regulation
Authors: Wang Caidong , Gao Pengfei , Wang Xinjie , Wang Hong , Liu Xiaoli , Zheng Huadong
Published: December 2023

To improve collision safety in robot–human collaborative applications, increasing attention has been paid to rotational variable stiffness actuators. A new rotational variable stiffness actuator, which works in two stages, is proposed for hybrid passive–active stiffness regulation. The passive stage is based on the motions of springs driven by the rack-and-pinion systems, elastically converting the shaft’s rotation into the inner shell rotation fixed to the internal gear of the active stage. The active stage is designed to achieve the movement of the pivot point located on the roller actuated by the adjustment motor, providing the output angle of the output shaft. The two pairs of rack-and-pinion systems of the passive stage and the two pairs of planetary gears of the active stage are designed for side-by-side placement, improving the stability and balance of the stiffness regulation process. Two symmetrical cam-slider mechanisms acting as leverage pivots ensure the synchronous movements of the two rollers. The variable stiffness actuator is designed and validated by simulations and experiments. Strength analysis and stiffness analysis are presented. The designed actuator can obtain the range of stiffness adjustment of 35–3286 N·mm/deg. The range of the angle difference between the input and output shafts is ±48°.
An Assessment of the Spatial Diversification of Agriculture in the Conditions of the Circular Economy in European Union Countries
Authors: Matysik-Pejas Renata , Bogusz Małgorzata , Daniek Kamila , Szafrańska Monika , Satoła Łukasz , Krasnodębski Andrzej , Dziekański Paweł
Published: December 2023

The level of agricultural development in European Union countries is characterized by great diversity. This is due to differences in natural conditions, the type of agricultural production, agrarian fragmentation, and the level of economic development. The concept of a circular economy is the latest vision of changing the current economic systems, the assumptions of which constitute an alternative to the linear model of resource use. The implementation of the principles of a circular economy aims to create a system that will contribute to the implementation of sustainable development. This could be a strategy to support agriculture in the absence of agricultural land and water resources. This research aimed to identify and assess the spatial diversification of agricultural production-economic conditions and their links with the circular economy at the level of EU countries. The basis for grouping countries was synthetic measures obtained in the areas of agriculture and the circular economy. The analyses were performed for 2012 and 2020. The obtained results indicate the existence of significant spatial dependencies in the development of agriculture and the circular economy. Countries with a higher level of agricultural development were also higher in the ranking of the advancement of the implementation of the circular economy concept.
Management Practices Affect Soil Organic Carbon Stocks and Soil Fertility in Cactus Orchards
Authors: Coêlho Diego de Lima , Dubeux José Carlos Batista , Santos Mércia Virginia Ferreira dos , Mello Alexandre Carneiro Leão de , Cunha Márcio Vieira da , Santos Djalma Cordeiro dos , Freitas Erinaldo Viana de , Santos Erick Rodrigo da Silva , Silva Natália Viana da
Published: December 2023

Management practices might alter soil chemical properties. This study evaluated soil chemical properties in a forage cactus Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. (‘Orelha de Elefante Mexicana’) (OEM) production system in the Brazilian semiarid region. The experiment was established in June 2011, and the design was a split-split-plot in randomized complete blocks, in which the main plots were formed by distinct levels of organic fertilizer (cattle manure) (0, 10, 20, and 30 Mg ha−1 year−1), the subplots were formed by different levels of N inorganic fertilizer applied as urea (0, 120, 240, and 360 kg N ha−1 year−1), and the sub-subplots were distinguished by the distinct OEM harvesting frequency (annual or biennial). Soil samples were collected for chemical analysis, C and N contents analysis, and stocks analysis at 0 to 10 and 10 to 20 cm depths in August 2019. Organic fertilizer contributed to a linear increase in soil pH, Ca2+, Na+, sum of bases (SB), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and base saturation (V) at both depths (p < 0.05). With the application of 30 Mg ha−1 year−1 of cattle manure, there was storage of approximately 126 Mg C ha−1 and 13 Mg N ha−1 at 0 to 20 cm depths. Managing OEM with organic fertilizer and a biennial frequency of harvesting affects the soil’s chemical characteristics in cactus orchards, and it is a sustainable alternative for semiarid regions.
Straw Residual Retention on Wheat Photosynthetic Characteristics, Utilization of Water and Nitrogen, and Reactive Nitrogen Losses
Authors: Li Huitong , Liu Rui , Peng Yi , Wang Xiaofei , Zhou Chunju , Wang Jun , Wang Linquan
Published: December 2023

Straw residual retention is an emerging and promoted practice in rain-fed northwest China, but its effect on wheat photosynthetic characteristics, the utilization of water and nitrogen, and reactive nitrogen losses is poorly understood. A two-year consecutive field experiment was conducted to investigate the impacts of residual incorporation into soil and nitrogen application on wheat nitrogen and water utilization, yield and nitrogen losses during 2018–2020. The split-plot design of two tillage systems [conventional tillage (CT), and straw residue incorporated into soil (SR)] and three nitrogen rates [0 kg ha−1 (N0), 144 kg ha−1 (N144), 180 kg ha−1 (N180)] was implemented. Our results demonstrated that compared to CT, SR significantly influenced several key metrics. Compared with CT, SR increased the wheat photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), leaf area index (LAI), leaf total chlorophyll (Chl-total), glutamine synthetase (GS) and nitrate reductase (NR) by an average of 5.38%, 12.75%, 8.21%, 5.79%, 16.21% and 20.08%, respectively (p < 0.05). In addition, SR increased the wheat grain yield and nitrogen uptake accumulation (NUA), evapotranspiration (ET), precipitation storage efficiency (PSE), and mineral nitrogen residual after harvest (except for SR-N180 in 2019–2020), but decreased the apparent nitrogen recovery when compared with CT. However, there was an insignificant difference in the ammonia (NH3) volatilization and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions of SR and CT. With an increase in the N-fertilization rate, the Pn and Tr, NH3 volatilization, N2O emission, mineral nitrogen residual (except for SR-N180 in 2019–2020), LAI, Chl-total (except for SR-N180 and CT-N180 in 2018–2019), GS, NR, grain yield, WUE, and NUA increased significantly; however, the ET, PSE, apparent nitrogen recovery (ANR), and nitrogen harvest index (NHI) decreased significantly. Furthermore, the differences between N144 and N180 in terms of the photosynthetic characteristics of wheat, the utilization of water and nitrogen, and yield were not significant. Overall, straw retention with N144 could be recommended as a resource-saving and environment-friendly management practice in a rain-fed winter wheat–fallow cropping system in northwest China.
Antibiotic Resistance: Do We Need Only Cutting-Edge Methods, or Can New Visions Such as One Health Be More Useful for Learning from Nature?
Authors: Vitale Maria
Published: December 2023

Antibiotic resistance is an increasing global problem for public health, and focusing on biofilms has provided further insights into resistance evolution in bacteria. Resistance is innate in many bacterial species, and many antibiotics are derived from natural molecules of soil microorganisms. Is it possible that nature can help control AMR diffusion? In this review, an analysis of resistance mechanisms is summarized, and an excursus of the different approaches to challenging resistance spread based on natural processes is presented as “lessons from Nature”. On the “host side”, immunotherapy strategies for bacterial infections have a long history before antibiotics, but continuous new inputs through biotechnology advances are enlarging their applications, efficacy, and safety. Antimicrobial peptides and monoclonal antibodies are considered for controlling antibiotic resistance. Understanding the biology of natural predators is providing new, effective, and safe ways to combat resistant bacteria. As natural enemies, bacteriophages were used to treat severe infections before the discovery of antibiotics, marginalized during the antibiotic era, and revitalized upon the diffusion of multi-resistance. Finally, sociopolitical aspects such as education, global action, and climate change are also considered as important tools for tackling antibiotic resistance from the One Health perspective.
Does Exercise Testing with Arm Crank Ergometer Substitute for Cycle Ergometer to Evaluate Exercise Capacity?
Authors: Deguchi Miwako , Yokoyama Hisayo , Hongu Nobuko , Toya Atsuya , Matsutake Takahiro , Suzuki Yuta , Imai Daiki , Yamazaki Yuko , Emoto Masanori , Okazaki Kazunobu
Published: December 2023

Using the upper limbs to test cardiopulmonary exercise can be a useful option in the case of individuals who are unable to pedal a bicycle due to lower limb injury or disability. We evaluated whether exercise testing with the upper limbs can be used equivalently to that of the lower limbs in assessing exercise capacity. Nine collegiate rowers and eight collegiate cyclists underwent incremental exercise testing with an arm crank ergometer (ACE) and cycle ergometer (CE). Heart rate (HR) and oxygen uptake (VO2) were monitored throughout the tests. Segmental muscle mass and flow-mediated dilation of brachial artery were measured to assess the training status of the upper limbs. The muscle mass of the brachium, upper limb, and trunk were greater in the rowers than in the cyclists (p < 0.05). The correlations between HR and VO2 was significantly different depending on exercise modalities, ACE and CE, in both groups (p < 0.001). The estimated maximal VO2 using the correlation formula and age-predicted maximal HR was significantly lower in the exercise testing group with ACE than in the group with CE in rowers and cyclists (41.7 ± 7.3 vs. 52.6 ± 8.6 mL/kg/min, p = 0.010 and 35.5 ± 14.2 vs. 50.4 ± 13.4 mL/kg/min, p = 0.011, respectively). The results suggested that exercise capacity assessed by exercise testing with ACE is underestimated, regardless of the training status of the upper limbs. Further research is needed to verify factors which affect the correlations between HR and VO2 during upper- and lower-limb exercise.
Optical Properties of Laccases and Their Use for Phenolic Compound Detection and Quantification: A Brief Review
Authors: Conigliaro Pauline , Portaccio Marianna , Lepore Maria , Delfino Ines
Published: December 2023

Phenolic compounds (PheCs) are particularly relevant in many different frameworks due to their pro-oxidant and antioxidant activities. In fact, on the one hand, they are considered very dangerous pro-oxidant agents that can be present in the environment as pollutants in wastewater and soil from different industrial and agricultural industries. On the other hand, the antioxidant influence of PheCs available in natural products (including foods) is nowadays considered essential for preserving human health. Conventional techniques for detecting PheCs present some disadvantages, such as requiring expensive instrumentation and expert users and not allowing in situ measurements. This is the reason why there is a high interest in the development of simple, sensitive, specific, and accurate sensing methods for PheCs. Enzymes are often used for this purpose, and laccases with unique optical properties are adopted as bio-elements for sensing schemes. The present paper aims to revise the optical properties of laccases and their use for developing PheC detection and quantification methods used in different fields such as environment monitoring, food characterization and medical applications. In particular, the results offered by UV, visible and infrared absorption, fluorescence, Raman, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) have been considered. The enzymatic biosensing devices developed using the related optical signals have been reported, and a comparison of their performances has carried out. A brief description of the main characteristics of laccase and phenols is also given.