bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristic features of manifestations of aggressiveness in children
Authors: Chervonyi P. D. , Nadutyi A. V.
Published: July 2024

Aggressive behavior in children is a serious problem that can have far-reaching consequences for both children themselves and their families, as well as for society as a whole. Understanding the characteristic features of aggressiveness in children is key to developing effective strategies for prevention and correction. Its manifestations can be different: from physical aggression (hitting, pushing) to verbal (insults, threats) and emotional (anger, resentment).
In today's world, where children are constantly exposed to the flow of information, violence and stress, the issue of aggressive behavior is becoming more and more relevant. The increase in the number of cases of bullying, cruelty and violence among children indicates the need for a deep study of this problem.
The purpose of the article is to study the characterological features of manifestations of aggressiveness in children, to identify factors influencing its development, and to provide recommendations for prevention and correction. Various types of aggression, factors that provoke it, and age-related features of its manifestations are described.
The types of children's aggression are considered: physical aggression (is the most common type of aggressive behavior in children, it can manifest itself in the form of hitting, pushing, spoiling things), verbal aggression (verbal insults, threats, mocking) and emotional aggression (anger, resentment, hostility).
Factors that can provoke aggressive behavior in children are described, in particular: family problems (brutal treatment by parents, quarrels, divorce), mental disorders (anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), media influence (children who often watch movies and violent TV shows, more prone to aggressive behavior).
It is noted that in preschool age, aggression often manifests itself in a physical form, in elementary school age, verbal forms of aggression appear, and adolescence is characterized by aggression, which can manifest itself in various forms, in particular, group aggression is often observed.
It is noted that aggressiveness in children is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach. It is important not only to punish children for aggressive behavior, but also to help them find healthy ways to express their emotions.
Motivation and experiences of studying creative arts therapy among Chinese doctoral students in South Korea
Authors: Mo Ya Nan , Ko Kyung Soon
Published: July 2024

Chinese students accounted for 40.4% of international students in South Korea in 2022. Universities in China require doctoral degrees to teach art. Creative arts therapy has increasingly gained attention. This study investigated the experiences of six Chinese students in a study abroad program for creative arts therapy in South Korea. We gathered data from visual artworks and interviews. The analysis yielded six themes: No doctoral degree, no job position for art educators in university, China; Expectations for the development of CAT in China; Despite majoring in art, CAT is a new discipline; Study abroad while unprepared in terms of language ability; Wanting to escape due to academic pressure; Motivation to continue studying abroad. Findings revealed that psychological and emotional support programs would help international students across different nationalities and cultures. Students’ study abroad experience and how it contributes to their lives beyond obtaining a degree requires further consideration.
ГЕНДЕРНА РІВНІСТЬ У ЛІДЕРСТВІ
Authors: Другова Олена
Published: July 2024

У статті розглядається питання забезпечення гендерного балансу на керівних позиціях в Україні та у світі. Охарактеризовано поточний стан гендерного балансу в керівництві, окреслено основні перешкоди та виклики, а також наведено успішні приклади і практики, що сприяють просуванню жінок на керівні посади. Проаналізовано данні Global Gender Gap Report 2023, де Україна посідає 81 місце з 146 країн за рівнем гендерної рівності в економічній участі та можливостях. Основними викликами є стереотипи про роль жінок у суспільстві, недостатня підтримка з боку держави та роботодавців, а також обмежений доступ до ресурсів та можливостей для розвитку кар'єри. Дослідження показують, що компанії з вищим рівнем гендерного різноманіття на керівних посадах демонструють кращі фінансові результати та більш інноваційні підходи до ведення бізнесу.
ІМПОРТ ІНСТИТУЦІЙ ЯК СКЛАДОВА ЕКОНОМІЧНОГО РОЗВИТКУ
Authors: Заваженко Андрій
Published: July 2024

У статті досліджено особливості імпорту інституцій як способу реалізації інституційних змін та розроблено рекомендації державної політики щодо імпорту інституцій Європейського Союзу у вітчизняне інституційне середовище з метою створення сприятливих умов для забезпечення євроінтеграційних процесів і повоєнного відновлення, а також підтримки стабільного розвитку вітчизняної економіки. Автором описано вплив інституційних змін на складові елементи інституційного середовища, проаналізовано ефективність реалізації інституційних змін через конгруентність інституцій, охарактеризовано процес імпорту інституцій із іншого інституційного середовища, зазначено переваги для країн-експортерів та країн-імпортерів, а також складнощі, які пов’язані з запозиченням інституцій, та проаналізовано взаємозв’язок між інституційним та економічним розвитком країн Європейського Союзу.
Effect of Structured Nursing Intervention on Knowledge and Treatment Adherance Among Patients With End Stage Renal Disease in Kano Metropolis
Authors: Aikawa Hussaini Muhammad , Kombo Salihu Abdulrahman Abdulrahman , Sani Dalhat Khalid , Dalhatu Adamu , Sani Sani Mohammed , Abdurrashid Idris
Published: July 2024

Background: Chronic Renal Failure is a progressive irreversible deterioration in renal function in which the body’s power to maintain metabolic, fluid, and electrolyte balance fails, resulting in uremia which contributes to the patient's dependence upon hemodialysis for the maintenance of the internal milieu and to avoid uremia. Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are characterized by low levels of physical activity and a continuous decline in physical function. The main aim of the study was to assess the effect of structured nursing intervention on treatment adherence among patients with end-stage renal disease in Kano Metropolis.

Methods: This study utilized a two-group pretest-post-test quasi-experimental design. Patients receiving dialysis care at Muhammadu Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital and Abubakar Imam Urology Hospital were purposively selected as experimental and control groups respectively. A total of 422 participants were estimated and selected for the study and equally shared among the two groups, i.e. 211 for the control and 211 for the experimental group. All statistical data were analyzed and described using simple frequencies, Chi-square, T-test and regressions.

Results: Regarding treatment adherence, the pre-intervention mean score was 52.9 and 50.00, and the post-intervention score was 73.2 and 54.6 in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The effectiveness of the intervention was tested using unpaired t-test which was found to be significantly effective (p<0.005).

Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study, the structured nursing intervention was effective in improving the level of knowledge regarding the disease and treatment adherence (p<0.005) among patients with end-stage renal disease in the Kano metropolis. It is therefore recommended that the nephrology nurses, hospital administrators, and the general public join hands to make the services accessible and affordable to these patients to maintain their normal life activities through good adherence to the treatment regimen.
Short-sighted evolution of virulence for invasive gut microbes: from hypothesis to tests.
Authors: Scanlan Pauline , Baquero Fernando , Levin Bruce
Published: July 2024

Why microbes harm their hosts is a fundamental question in evolutionary biology with broad relevance to our understanding of infectious diseases. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain this "evolution of virulence." In this perspective, we re-examine one of these hypotheses in the specific context of the human gut microbiome, namely short-sighted evolution. According to the short-sighted evolution hypothesis, virulence is a product of niche expansion within a colonized host, whereby variants of commensal microbes establish populations in tissues and sites where the infection causes morbidity or mortality. This evolution is short-sighted in that the evolved variants that infect those tissues and sites are not transmitted to other hosts. The specific hypothesis that we propose is that some bacteria responsible for invasive infections and disease are the products of the short-sighted evolution of commensal bacteria residing in the gut microbiota. We present observations in support of this hypothesis and discuss the challenges inherent in assessing its general application to infections and diseases associated with specific members of the gut microbiota. We then describe how this hypothesis can be tested using genomic data and animal model experiments and outline how such studies will serve to provide fundamental information about both the evolution and genetic basis of virulence, and the bacteria of the intensively studied yet poorly understood habitats including the gut microbiomes of humans and other mammals.
СУТНІСТЬ ТА ПРИНЦИПИ СТРАТЕГІЧНОГО УПРАВЛІННЯ ПІДПРИЄМНИЦЬКОЮ ДІЯЛЬНІСТЮ: ТЕОРЕТИЧНИЙ АСПЕКТ
Authors: Ковальов В.В. , Дітковський Д.В.
Published: July 2024

В статті розглянуто теоретичний аспект стратегічного управління та принципи на який воно базується. Висвітлена дефініція поняття «стратегія» виходячи з трьох підходів: «стратегія як план», «стратегія як вектор розвитку» та «стратегія як аналіз». В процесі еволюції стратегічного управління відбулося розмежування функцій поточного та стратегічного менеджменту. Процес розвитку стратегічного управління підприємницької діяльності відбувається на основі наступних підходів: системного, процесного та ситуаційного. Бізнес в країнах з розвинутою ринковою економікою, в порівнянні з вітчизняним, має більше досвіду та можливостей в процесах розробки та реалізації різноманітних стратегій управління. Це пов’язано з тим, що вітчизняні підприємці обмежені в фінансових ресурсах, відчувається нестача кваліфікованих менеджерів, нестабільність розвитку економіки та інше. Сьогодні розробка виваженої стратегії управління неможливе без застосування інноваційних управлінських інструментів.
Theoretical study of the reaction mechanism between triphenylphosphine with dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylates in the presence of 2-mercapto thiazoline
Authors: Zakarianezhad Mohammad , Makiabadi Batoul , Hosseini Seyede Samira , Zeydabadi Elham
Published: July 2024

In this research, the mechanism of the reaction between triphenylphosphine R1 and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate R2 was investigated in the presence of NH-acid, such as 2-mercapto thiazoline R3 based on the quantum mechanical calculations. Theoretical studies performed for evaluation of the potential energy surfaces of all structures participated in the reaction mechanism. All structures were optimized at the B3LYP/6-311++g(d,p) levels. The first step of the reaction was recognized as a rate-determining step in the reaction mechanism. To check the effect of solvent on the potential energy surfaces, condensed phase calculations in acetone were carried out with the polarizable continuum model (CPCM). Finally, the natural bond orbital (NBO) method was applied for a better understanding of molecular interaction.
Web Server-based structure prediction as a supplementary tool for basic and acidic FGF secondary structure analysis using FTIR spectroscopy and a case study comparing curve-fit with the model-based structure inspection of the FTIR data
Authors: Korkmaz Özkan Filiz , Doğan Mollaoğlu Ayça , Adıgüzel Yekbun
Published: July 2024

Aim: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy can provide relative proportion of secondary structure elements in a protein. However, extracting this information from the Amide I band area of an FTIR spectrum is difficult. In addition to experimental methods, several protein secondary structure prediction algorithms serving on the Web can be used as supplementary tools requiring only protein amino acid sequences as inputs. WeIn addition, web-server based docking tools can provide structure information when proteins are mixed and potentially interacting. Accordingly, we aimed to utilize web-server based structure predictors in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) protein structure determination through the FTIR data.
Materials and methods: Seven such predictors arewere selected and tested on basic FGF (bFGF) protein, to predict FGF secondary structure. Results arewere compared to available structure-files deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Then, FTIR spectra of bFGF and the acidic form of the protein with 50 folds more bovine serum albumin as carrier protein (1FGFA/50BSA) arewere collected. Optimized Amide I curve-fit parameters of bFGF with low (
STRUCTURAL INSIGHTS AND ANTICANCER POTENTIAL OF MELITTIN IN CD147 INTERACTION
Authors: Denk Barış
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study investigates the interaction between melittin (PDB ID: 2MLT), a bioactive peptide from honeybee venom, and CD147 (PDB ID: 5XF0), a glycosylated transmembrane protein implicated in tumor progression.
Material and Method: Employing molecular docking and bioinformatics tools, our structural analysis reveals diverse binding features, including hydrogen bonds, salt bridges, and non-bonded contacts, between the CD147 complex and melittin.
Result and Discussion: Non-bonded interactions between 2MLT and specific amino acids (Gly181 and Arg201) of CD147 are highlighted, resembling aspects of the CypA/CD147 binding mechanism (Pro180-Gly181 and Arg201). The elevated anticancer potential of 2MLT was substantiated by utilizing the AntiCP 2.0 server and the ENNAACT server, employing machine learning and artificial neural network algorithms. Additionally, hydrophobicity analysis aligns with characteristics associated with anticancer peptides. Notably, thermodynamic stability variations with temperature underscore the robust binding affinity of 2MLT to the 5XF0 receptor. While our study comprehensively explores molecular interactions and predictive analyses, further in vitro and in vivo investigations are crucial to validate these findings for potential therapeutic applications.
ORAL KOLAJEN TAKVİYELERİ VE OLASI ADVERS ETKİLERİNİN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: Özsoy Senanur , Cemiloğlu Ülker Özge , Üstündağ Aylin
Published: July 2024

Amaç: Bugüne kadar oral kolajen takviyeleri hakkında yapılan birçok çalışma kolajen takviyelerinin eklem ve cilt sağlığına üzerindeki etkileri üzerinedir. Kolajenlerin vücudun diğer fonksiyonları üzerine yararlı etkileri bilinmekte olup bunlar hakkında yapılan çalışmalar yetersiz kalmaktadır. Mevcut veriler birçok insan tarafından günlük diyetin önemli bir parçası haline gelen kolajen takviyelerinin herhangi bir toksik etkisi olmadığını, kullanımlarının güvenli olduğunu göstermektedir. Ancak yapılan çalışmalar sonucu birbirini destekleyen verilerin olmamasından dolayı kolajen takviyelerinin bu kadar sık kullanımlarına rağmen toksisiteleri üzerine ek çalışmalar yapılmasına ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır.
Sonuç ve Tartışma: Yapılan literatür taramalarının sonuçları incelendiğinde, olası advers etkilere ait çok az veriye rastlanmıştır. Spesifik kolajenin uzun süreli oral uygulanması vücutta zararlı hücresel hasarlara sebep olabilir, kilo kaybına sebep olabilir, organları hedef alarak işleyişini aksatabilir. Değişken kolajen kaynaklarının içerikleri hakkında bilgi sahibi olmak ve kullanım sürelerine, kullanım miktarlarına dikkat edilmesi gerekir.
FUSARİUM TOKSİNLERİNİN EPİGENETİK MEKANİZMALAR ÜZERİNE ETKİLERİ: FUMONİSİN B1 VE ZEARALENON
Authors: Perçin Elif , Karaman Ecem Fatma , Özden Sibel
Published: July 2024

Amaç: Günümüzde en çok çalışılan Fusarium mikotoksin türleri arasında fumonisin B1 (FB1) ve zearalenon (ZEA) bulunmaktadır. FB1 ve ZEA farklı moleküler mekanizmaları etkilemekte olup birçok toksik etkiye sebep olmaktadır. Bu derlemede FB1 ve ZEA’nın DNA metilasyonu, histon modifikasyonları ve mikroRNA (miRNA) seviyeleri gibi epigenetik mekanizmalar üzerine etkileri ve moleküler düzeyde gözlenen toksik etkilerinin özetlenmesi amaçlanmıştır.
Sonuç ve Tartışma: FB1 ve ZEA’nın DNA metilasyonunu, histon modifikasyonunu ve miRNA seviyelerini uygulama süresi ve doza bağlı olarak değiştirdiği çeşitli çalışmalarda gösterilmiş olup bu mikotoksinlerin moleküler mekanizmalarında epigenetik çalışmaların önemi vurgulanmıştır.
Association between blood pressure multi-trajectory and cardiovascular disease among a Chinese elderly medical examination population
Authors: Chen Quan , Du Jinling , Hong Xin
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to characterize multivariate trajectories of blood pressure [systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)] jointly and examine their impact on incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) among a Chinese elderly medical examination population.

Methods

A total of 13,504 individuals without CVD during 2018–2020 were included from the Chinese geriatric physical examination cohort study. The group-based trajectory model was used to construct multi-trajectories of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. The primary outcome was the incidence of the first CVD events, consisting of stroke and coronary heart diseases, in 2021. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between BP multi-trajectories and incident CVD events.

Results

We identified four blood pressure (BP) subclasses, summarized by their SBP and DBP levels from low to high as class 1 (7.16%), class 2 (55.17%), class 3 (32.26%), and class 4 (5.41%). In 2021, we documented 890 incident CVD events. Compared with participants in class 1, adjusted HRs were 1.56 (95% CI: 1.12–2.19) for class 2, 1.75 (95% CI: 1.24–2.47) for class 3, and 1.88 (95% CI: 1.24–2.85) for class 4 after adjustment for demographics, health behaviors, and metabolic index. Individuals aged 65 years and above with higher levels of BP trajectories had higher risks of CVD events in China.

Conclusions

Individuals with higher levels of both SBP and DBP trajectories over time were associated with an increased risk of incident CVD in the Chinese elderly population.
Reliability and validity of the online Pittsburgh sleep quality index in college students from low-income regions
Authors: De Moraes Augusto César Ferreira , Conceição da Silva Lorrane Cristine , Lima Barbara Saldanha , Marin Kliver Antonio , Hunt Ethan T. , Nascimento-Ferreira Marcus Vinicius
Published: July 2024

Objectives

We aimed to test the reliability and structural validity (also called dimensionality) of the online Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index among college students from low-income regions.

Methods

We assessed 195 Brazilian college students from a low-income region (Gini index of 0.56), of whom 117 were reassessed to evaluate the reliability. We collected all data in a self-reported online twice, 2-week apart. We evaluated reliability and structural validity.

Results

All questionnaire components showed reliability, correlation coefficient ≥0.49. In the structural validity, the confirmatory analysis showed better global model adjustment for the one-factor (RMSEA = 0.019; SRMR = 0.041; CFI = 0.992; TLI = 0.986) solution compared with two-factor (RMSEA = 0.099; SRMR = 0.070; CFI = 0.764; TLI = 0.619) and three-factor (RMSEA = 0.108; SRMR = 0.066; CFI = 0.763; TLI = 0.548) solutions, respectively.

Discussion

The online questionnaire presents acceptable reliability and structural validity in Brazilian low-income regions.
Retrogradation of carbonate platforms on a rifted margin: the late Ediacaran record of the northwestern Yangtze Craton (SW China)
Authors: Xia Maolong , Zhang Benjian , Jia Song , Zhao Chunni , Feng Mingyou , Shang Junxin , Zhang Chao , Li Yong , Li Yiwen
Published: July 2024

The Late Ediacaran Dengying Formation, located in the Sichuan Basin of the northwestern Yangtze Craton, is of significant interest in oil and gas exploration due to its abundant pores and vugs within microbial mound-shoal complexes. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the spatiotemporal distribution and controlling factors of the platform margin. This study comprehensively analyzes the retrogradation pattern of the Dengying Formation platform margin using seismic data, well logs, field outcrops, and petrological characteristics. Our findings reveal that the Dengying Formation strata surrounding the rift basin at the northwestern of the Yangtze Craton can be divided into three main depositional facies: basin facies, slope facies, and platform margin facies. Additionally, based on the integration of lithological, log, and seismic characteristics, the Dengying Formation is subdivided into four third-order sequences, with five sequence boundaries and three seismic facies identified. Supported by sequence stratigraphy and geophysical data, we have reconstructed the tectono-sedimentary evolution of the multiple platform margins on the eastern side of the Deyang-Anyue rift in the Sichuan Basin during the late Ediacaran. Our findings indicate that the platform underwent two phases of retrogradation. The second-stage platform margin underwent retrogradation towards the interior, spanning a distance between 10 and 80 km, based on the initial configuration established by the first-stage platform margin. The main controls for progradation and retrogradation of carbonate platforms are eustatic sea-level changes and tectonic activity. Eustatic sea-level changes can be divided into constructive and destructive phases. Constructive phases are commonly observed in highstand systems tracts, while destructive phases are often associated with transgressive systems tracts and are related to platform retrogradation processes. However, sea-level changes alone cannot fully control the process of platform retrogradation. The thermal subsidence following mantle plume events likely played a significant role in the retrogradation of the platform in the study area. During this period, tectonic processes controlled the geometry of the platform and the deposition of carbonates in the platform margin-slope-basin environment. Additionally, karst-related mound-shoal complexes developed extensively along the platform margin of the Dengying Formation in the northwestern Yangtze Craton. The Lower Cambrian dark shales represent high-quality hydrocarbon source rocks, while the Dengying Formation exhibits an optimal source-reservoir configuration.
Study on the early warning of cracking and water inrush risk of coal mine roof and floor
Authors: Zhang Shichao , Wei Xiuqi , Tang Liming , Duan Wenshuo , Gong Bin , Mu Chaomin , Zhang Shujin
Published: July 2024

Microseismic monitoring has proven to be an effective approach for detecting and preempting water inrush incidents within mining operations. However, challenges persist, particularly in terms of relying on a singular early warning index and the complexities involved in quantification. In response to these obstacles, a dedicated investigation was undertaken against the backdrop of mining activities at the 11,023 working face of Paner Coal Mine. Primarily, a novel methodology for categorizing the roof and floor into distinct zones was established based on the vertical distribution of microseismic events. Furthermore, this study delves into the dynamic evolution of key source parameters, such as microseismic energy, apparent stress, and apparent volume, amidst mining disturbances, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the risk associated with roof and floor cracking, as well as potential water inrush incidents. A groundbreaking approach to early warning was proposed, operating on three pivotal dimensions: the depth of fractures, the intensity of fractures, and the likelihood of water inrush. Through rigorous validation during mining operations at the 11,023 working face, the efficacy was substantiated. Ultimately, the achievements offer invaluable insights and practical guidance for the advancement and implementation of water inrush early warning systems in coal mining contexts.
Multimodal cues in L2 lexical tone acquisition: current research and future directions
Authors: Farran Bashar M. , Morett Laura M.
Published: July 2024

This review discusses the effectiveness of visual and haptic cues for second language (L2) lexical tone acquisition, with a special focus on observation and production of hand gestures. It explains how these cues can facilitate initial acquisition of L2 lexical tones via multimodal depictions of pitch. In doing so, it provides recommendations for incorporation of multimodal cues into L2 lexical tone pedagogy.
Red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio associates with prevalence and long-term diabetes mellitus prognosis: an overview of NHANES 1999–2020 data
Authors: Liu Jie , Wang Xu , Gao Tian ye , Zhang Qing , Zhang Sheng nan , Xu Yuan yuan , Yao Wen qiang , Yang Zhen hua , Yan Hao jie
Published: July 2024

Background

Erythrocyte dysfunction is a characteristic of diabetes mellitus (DM). However, erythrocyte-associated biomarkers do not adequately explain the high prevalence of DM. Here, we describe red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio (RAR) as a novel inflammatory biomarker for evaluating an association with DM prevalence and prognosis of all-cause mortality.

Methods

Data analyzed in this study were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999−2020. A total of 40,558 participants (non-DM and DM) were enrolled in the study; RAR quartiles were calibrated at Q1 [2.02,2.82] mL/g, Q2 (2.82,3.05] mL/g, Q3 (3.05,3.38] mL/g, and Q4 (3.38,12.08] mL/g. A total of 8,482 DM patients were followed (for a median of 84 months), of whom 2,411 died and 6,071 survived. The prevalence and prognosis associated with RAR and DM were analyzed; age and sex were stratified to analyze the prevalence of RAR in DM and the sensitivity of long-term prognosis.

Results

Among non-DM (n=30,404) and DM (n=10,154) volunteers, DM prevalence in RAR quartiles was 8.23%, 15.20%, 23.92%, and 36.39%. The multivariable odds ratio (OR) was significant for RAR regarding DM, at 1.68 (95% CI 1.42, 1.98). Considering Q1 as a foundation, the Q4 OR was 2.57 (95% CI 2.11, 3.13). The percentages of DM morbidity varied across RAR quartiles for dead (n=2,411) and surviving (n=6,071) DM patients. Specifically, RAR quartile mortality ratios were 20.31%, 24.24%, 22.65%, and 29.99% (P<0.0001). The multivariable hazard ratio (HR) for RAR was 1.80 (95% CI 1.57, 2.05). Considering Q1 as a foundation, the Q4 HR was 2.59 (95% CI 2.18, 3.09) after adjusting for confounding factors. Sensitivity analysis revealed the HR of male DM patients to be 2.27 (95% CI 1.95, 2.64), higher than females 1.56 (95% CI 1.31, 1.85). DM patients who were 60 years of age or younger had a higher HR of 2.08 (95% CI1.61, 2.70) as compared to those older than 60 years, who had an HR of 1.69 (95% CI 1.47, 1.94). The HR of RAR in DM patients was optimized by a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model; 3.22 was determined to be the inflection point of an inverse L-curve. DM patients with a RAR >3.22 mL/g suffered shorter survival and higher mortality as compared to those with RAR ≤3.22 mL/g. OR and HR RAR values were much higher than those of regular red blood cell distribution width.

Conclusions

The predictive value of RAR is more accurate than that of RDW for projecting DM prevalence, while RAR, a DM risk factor, has long-term prognostic power for the condition. Survival time was found to be reduced as RAR increased for those aged ≤60 years among female DM patients.
A novel guided approach to radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules: the Toronto Sunnybrook experience
Authors: Sarkis Leba Michael , Higgins Kevin , Enepekides Danny , Eskander Antoine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Thyroid nodules are extremely common being detected by ultrasonography in up to 67% of the population, with current surgical tenet maintaining that lobectomy is required for large symptomatic benign nodules or autonomously functionally nodules resulting in a risk of hypothyroidism or recurrent laryngeal nerve injury even in high volume centres. The introduction of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has allowed thermal ablation of both benign and autonomously functioning thyroid nodules with minimal morbidity. The moving shot technique is the most well-established technique in performing RFA of thyroid nodules, and has proven to be safe, efficacious, accurate and successful amongst experienced clinicians. The purpose of this article to propose the use of a novel guide when performing RFA of thyroid nodules in clinical practice utilizing the moving shot technique.

Methods

The technique proposed of RFA involves the use of a 10MHz linear ultrasound probe attached to an 18G guide which provides robust in line visualisation of a 7cm or 10cm radiofrequency probe tip (STARmed, Seoul, Korea) utilizing the trans isthmic moving shot technique. A geometric analysis of the guide has been illustrated diagrammatically.

Results

The use of an 18G radiofrequency probe guide (CIVCO Infiniti Plus™ Needle Guide) maintains in line visualisation of the radiofrequency probe over a cross-sectional area up to 28cm2, facilitating efficient and complete ablation of conceptual subunits during RFA of thyroid nodules.

Discussion

Radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules can be performed safely and effectively using the novel radiofrequency probe guide proposed which we believe potentially improves both accuracy and overall efficiency, along with operator confidence in maintaining visualisation of the probe tip, and hence we believe provides a valuable addition to the armamentarium of clinicians wishing to embark on performing RFA of thyroid nodules.
scRNA sequencing technology for PitNET studies
Authors: Asaad Walaa , Utkina Marina , Shcherbakova Anastasia , Popov Sergey , Melnichenko Galina , Mokrysheva Natalia
Published: July 2024

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are common, most likely benign tumors with complex clinical characteristics related to hormone hypersecretion and/or growing sellar tumor mass. PitNET types are classified according to their expression of specific transcriptional factors (TFs) and hormone secretion levels. Some types show aggressive, invasive, and reoccurrence behavior. Current research is being conducted to understand the molecular mechanisms regulating these high-heterogeneous neoplasms originating from adenohypophysis, and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology is now playing an essential role in these studies due to its remarkable resolution at the single-cell level. This review describes recent studies on human PitNETs performed with scRNA-seq technology, highlighting the potential of this approach in revealing these tumor pathologies, behavior, and regulatory mechanisms.
Mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications of GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists
Authors: Liu Qiyuan Keith
Published: July 2024

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are two incretins that bind to their respective receptors and activate the downstream signaling in various tissues and organs. Both GIP and GLP-1 play roles in regulating food intake by stimulating neurons in the brain’s satiety center. They also stimulate insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells, but their effects on glucagon production in pancreatic α-cells differ, with GIP having a glucagonotropic effect during hypoglycemia and GLP-1 exhibiting glucagonostatic effect during hyperglycemia. Additionally, GIP directly stimulates lipogenesis, while GLP-1 indirectly promotes lipolysis, collectively maintaining healthy adipocytes, reducing ectopic fat distribution, and increasing the production and secretion of adiponectin from adipocytes. Together, these two incretins contribute to metabolic homeostasis, preventing both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, mitigating dyslipidemia, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Several GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists have been developed to harness these pharmacological effects in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, with some demonstrating robust effectiveness in weight management and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Elucidating the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms could potentially usher in the development of new generations of incretin mimetics with enhanced efficacy and fewer adverse effects. The treatment guidelines are evolving based on clinical trial outcomes, shaping the management of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
AC fault ride-through control strategy of MMC-UHVDC system with hierarchical connection mode
Authors: Ping Mingli , Niu Chong , Liu Xinhe , Yang Meijuan , Wang Xianwei
Published: July 2024

The ultra-high voltage direct current (UHVDC) transmission composed of modular multilevel converters (MMC) is an important technology for large-scale centralized transmission of renewable energy. In UHVDC system, temporary faults in the AC power grid system are a high probability fault, and the fault control strategy affects the safety and reliability of system operation. This paper studies on the condition of AC power grid faults occurring at the receiving converter station. Firstly, study the system characteristics after the occurrence of AC faults, and use theoretical analysis to derive the trend of DC voltage changes of each converter valve. Then, an AC fault ride-through control strategy with high power transmission capability is proposed with hierarchical connection structure, the strategy controls the system to synchronously reduce DC voltage and AC active power after a fault, maximizing the retention of the system’s transmission capacity during the occurrence of faults, thereby reduce power shock in the system. Finally, a simulation model of the dual ended system has built based on the PSCAD simulation platform. The simulation results show that when a single-phase ground fault and a three-phase ground fault occur in the high valve group at the receiving station, the system can retain about 83% and 50% of the transmission capacity during the fault period, respectively. Meanwhile, there is no serious overvoltage or overcurrent phenomenon in the system. The simulation results verified the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Contaminated freshwater as a Harbinger of tropical disease spread in Europe
Authors: Costa Axelle , Guerrero Hugo , Sureau Aurore , Tassaint Morgane , Augusto Ronaldo de Carvalho
Published: July 2024

Human-induced environmental changes, including climate change and pollution, significantly affect host-parasite interactions, potentially altering the geographical spread and severity of various parasitic diseases. These changes may particularly influence the dynamics of diseases like schistosomiasis, posing significant public health concerns. This review explores how pollutants such as organophosphate pesticides, antibiotics, heavy metals, cities’ landfills, and microplastics can affect the development and transmission dynamics of parasites, especially Schistosoma spp. Our researches highlight that pesticides promote parasitic disease development, while pharmaceuticals have mixed effects on the life cycles of these parasites. Similarly, heavy metals found in water systems disrupt host-pathogen interactions, and microplastics are linked to significant changes in snail stressor genes, a critical intermediate host for several parasites. With the rising impacts of anthropogenic activity on the environment, there is an urgent need to reassess and adjust regulatory policies to minimize these threats. By studying the implications of pollution on host-parasite interactions, we can develop better strategies for disease control and improve the preservation of our ecosystem’s health.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of medication use among pregnant women in Riyadh City: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Almuhareb Alanoud , Al Sharif Abdullah , Cahusac Peter
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Medication use during pregnancy is limited by the scarcity of safety data for many drugs. The use of certain drugs during pregnancy can be teratogenic. Overestimating teratogenic medication risk could have serious consequences from drug non-adherence. Assessing and understanding the knowledge, attitude, and practice of medication use among pregnant women is crucial to optimizing the health of pregnant women and their fetuses.

Methodology

An observational cross-sectional study used convenience and snowball sampling with a self-administered online questionnaire in 562 pregnant women from Riyadh City. The questionnaire used was adapted from previously published surveys. The survey included sections on sociodemographic background, awareness of medication risks, medication use during pregnancy, sources of drug information, and statements from the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ), both general and pregnancy-specific.

Results

Medication use during pregnancy was reported by 44.7%. The primary source for medication information for the majority was the physician. Over 58% indicated inadequate or inconsistent information about medication from physicians. Additionally, 65.7% confirmed not receiving sufficient or inconsistent information from pharmacists during medication dispensing. The responses to the questionnaire reveal a commendable level of knowledge and positive attitude and practice. However, variations could be found in these responses. Overall, no evident relationships were observed between predictors and responses, except in specific statements that indicated a positive association between beliefs and higher levels of education and youth.

Conclusion

The results suggest a positive knowledge, attitude, and practice level. However, there was hesitancy and a restrictive attitude towards medication during pregnancy. The study identified inadequate education provided by healthcare professionals, thus presenting an area for improvement to enhance the safety and efficacy of medication use during pregnancy.
The effects of cGAS-STING inhibition in liver disease, kidney disease, and cellular senescence
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhang Zhengwei , Zhang Haichao , Zhou Minmin , Huang Cheng , Xia Wenjiang , Li Jun , You Hongmei
Published: July 2024

The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is one of the fundamental mechanisms of the body’s defense, which responds to the abnormal presence of double-stranded DNA in the cytoplasm to establish an effective natural immune response. In addition to detecting microbial infections, the cGAS pathway may be triggered by any cytoplasmic DNA, which is absent from the normal cytoplasm, and only conditions such as senescence and mitochondrial stress can lead to its leakage and cause sterile inflammation. A growing body of research has shown that the cGAS-STING pathway is strongly associated with sterile inflammation. In this study, we reviewed the regulatory mechanisms and biological functions of the cGAS-STING pathway through its involvement in aseptic inflammation in liver disease, kidney disease, and cellular senescence.
Extracellular vesicles derived from stressed beta cells mediate monocyte activation and contribute to islet inflammation
Authors: Dekkers Mette C. , Lambooij Joost M. , Pu Xudong , Fagundes Raphael R. , Enciso-Martinez Agustin , Kats Kim , Giepmans Ben N. G. , Guigas Bruno , Zaldumbide Arnaud
Published: July 2024

Objective

Beta cell destruction in type 1 diabetes (T1D) results from the combined effect of inflammation and recurrent autoimmunity. In recent years, the role played by beta cells in the development of T1D has evolved from passive victims of the immune system to active contributors in their own destruction. We and others have demonstrated that perturbations in the islet microenvironment promote endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in beta cells, leading to enhanced immunogenicity. Among the underlying mechanisms, secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) by beta cells has been suggested to mediate the crosstalk with the immune cell compartment.

Methods

To study the role of cellular stress in the early events of T1D development, we generated a novel cellular model for constitutive ER stress by modulating the expression of HSPA5, which encodes BiP/GRP78, in EndoC-βH1 cells. To investigate the role of EVs in the interaction between beta cells and the immune system, we characterized the EV miRNA cargo and evaluated their effect on innate immune cells.

Results

Analysis of the transcriptome showed that HSPA5 knockdown resulted in the upregulation of signaling pathways involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR) and changes the miRNA content of EVs, including reduced levels of miRNAs involved in IL-1β signaling. Treatment of primary human monocytes with EVs from stressed beta cells resulted in increased surface expression of CD11b, HLA-DR, CD40 and CD86 and upregulation of IL-1β and IL-6.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the content of EVs derived from stressed beta cells can be a mediator of islet inflammation.
Treatment of intracranial inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor with PD-L1 inhibitor and novel oncolytic adenovirus Ad-TD-nsIL12: a case report and literature review
Authors: Qian Xiao , Ning Weihai , Dunmall Louisa Chard , Qu Yanming , Wang Yaohe , Zhang Hongwei
Published: July 2024

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare pathological entity first described in 1939. This lesion is most commonly found in the lungs, but cases involving other systems, such as the central nervous system known as intracranial IMT (IIMT), have also been reported. Diagnosis currently relies on pathological results due to the lack of characteristic imaging changes. Surgical resection is an effective treatment, though the disease is invasive and may recur. Previous literature has reported a high level of programmed death 1 (PD-1) expression in IMT tissues, suggesting that immunotherapy may be effective for this condition. In this case report, we present a middle-aged male who received PD-1 inhibitor and oncolytic adenovirus (Ad-TD-nsIL12) treatment after IIMT resection surgery. This successful approach provides a new direction for the treatment of IIMT.
A novel combined nomogram for predicting severe acute lower respiratory tract infection in children hospitalized for RSV infection during the post-COVID-19 period
Authors: Liu Hai-Feng , Zhang Xue-Zu , Liu Cong-Yun , Li Wang , Li Wen-Hong , Wang Ya-Yu , Li He-Yun , Xiang Mei , Lu Rui , Yuan Ting-Yun , Fu Hong-Min
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Off-season upsurge of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection with changed characteristics and heightened clinical severity during the post-COVID-19 era are raising serious concerns. This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram for predicting the risk of severe acute lower respiratory tract infection (SALRTI) in children hospitalized for RSV infection during the post-COVID-19 era using machine learning techniques.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study was performed in nine tertiary hospitals in Yunnan, China, enrolling children hospitalized for RSV infection at seven of the nine participating hospitals during January–December 2023 into the development dataset. Thirty-nine variables covering demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics were collected. Primary screening and dimension reduction of data were performed using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, followed by identification of independent risk factors for RSV-associated SALRTI using Logistic regression, thus finally establishing a predictive nomogram model. Performance of the nomogram was internally evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) based on the development dataset. External validation of our model was conducted using same methods based on two independent RSV cohorts comprising pediatric RSV inpatients from another two participating hospitals between January–March 2024.

Results

The development dataset included 1102 patients, 239 (21.7%) of whom developed SALRTI; while the external validation dataset included 249 patients (142 in Lincang subset and 107 in Dali subset), 58 (23.3%) of whom were diagnosed as SALRTI. Nine variables, including age, preterm birth, underlying condition, seizures, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), D-dimer, and co-infection, were eventually confirmed as the independent risk factors of RSV-associated SALRTI. A predictive nomogram was established via integrating these nine predictors. In both internal and external validations, ROC curves indicated that the nomogram had satisfactory discrimination ability, calibration curves demonstrated good agreement between the nomogram-predicted and observed probabilities of outcome, and DCA showed that the nomogram possessed favorable clinical application potential.

Conclusion

A novel nomogram combining several common clinical and inflammatory indicators was successfully developed to predict RSV-associated SALRTI. Good performance and clinical effectiveness of this model were confirmed by internal and external validations.
Parameter fuzzy rectification for sliding mode control of five-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor speed control system
Authors: Feng Jingjing
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Nowadays, five-phase permanent magnet synchronous motors have been widely used in the industrial and transportation fields, and the existing sliding mode control methods for speed control systems can no longer meet the requirements such as fast response and good stability.

Methods: In light of the aforementioned considerations, the study initially employs mathematical modeling to elucidate the five-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor. Secondly, on the basis of proportional-integral-derivative sliding mode control, radial basis function and Takagi-Sugeno-Kang fuzzy model are introduced for parameter identification and optimization and regulation. Finally, a new neural network regulation algorithm and speed control strategy are proposed.

Results and Discussion: The experimental results demonstrated that the expected parameter optimization rate of the regulation algorithm can reach 90%, and the overshooting amount under small inertia working condition is only 3%, and the adjustment time is 0.02 s. The new control algorithm can be used to control the motor speed with the lowest speed fluctuation and the fastest recovery time. In addition, when affected by the load torque, the motor speed controlled by the new strategy fluctuated the least, with a speed drop of only 1% and the fastest recovery time of 0.02 s. It exhibited the lowest control error of 3.7% and the lowest overshooting amount of 5.9%.

Conclusion: In summary, the suggested approach has the potential to significantly enhance the speed control system’s control performance while maintaining strong resilience and anti-interference capabilities. The method has certain guiding significance for the practical application of five-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor speed control system.