bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Australian public perspectives on genomic newborn screening: Which conditions should be included?
Authors: Lynch Fiona , Best Stephanie , Gaff Clara , Downie Lilian , Archibald Alison D. , Gyngell Christopher , Goranitis Ilias , Peters Riccarda , Savulescu Julian , Lunke Sebastian , Stark Zornitza , Vears Danya F
Published: February 2024

Background
Implementing genomic sequencing into newborn screening programs allows for significant expansion in the number and scope of conditions detected. We sought to explore public preferences and perspectives on which conditions to include in genomic newborn screening (gNBS).
Methods
We recruited English-speaking members of the Australian public over 18 years of age, using social media, and invited them to participate in online focus groups.
Results
Seventy-five members of the public aged 23–72 participated in one of fifteen focus groups. Participants agreed that if prioritisation of conditions was necessary, childhood-onset conditions were more important to include than later-onset conditions. Despite the purpose of the focus groups being to elicit public preferences, participants wanted to defer to others, such as health professionals or those with a lived experience of each condition, to make decisions about which conditions to include. Many participants saw benefit in including conditions with no available treatment. Participants agreed that gNBS should be fully publicly funded.
Conclusion
How many and which conditions are included in a gNBS program will be a complex decision requiring detailed assessment of benefits and costs alongside public and professional engagement. Our study provides support for implementing gNBS for treatable childhood-onset conditions.
Proteomic analysis of transbronchial biopsy tissue reveals a distinct proteome and mechanistic pathways in high-grade eosinophilic inflammation after lung transplantation
Authors: Tahmasbpour Eisa , Philp Ashleigh , Cree Tabitha , Sivasubramaniam Vanathi , Thomson Claire , Plit Marshall , Ravipati Anjaneyaswamy , Raftery Mark , Darley David
Published: February 2024

Background: Eosinophilic (EOS) inflammation is associated with acute cellular rejection (ACR) and an increased risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) after lung transplantation (LTx); however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We aimed to identify potential biomarkers and molecular mechanisms behind EOS inflammation after LTx.
Methods: A cross-sectional comparative proteome analysis of transbronchial biopsy (TBBx) tissue was performed using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue from 18 LTx recipients. The cohort was comprised of isolated EOS inflammation (n=6), ACR (n=6) and these were compared with stable controls (n=6). EOS TBBx were defined as ≥10 eosinophil per high power field without ACR. ACR TBBx was defined as ISHLT A-grade >/=2. Control biopsies were defined as those without ACR, EOS or positive BAL microbiology at 120 days after LTx. Peptides were extracted from TBBx and subjected to liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified and quantified using bioinformatic tools and then candidate biomarkers validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.
Results: Using a cut-off of Q<0.05 and a fold change of >1.6 for the variation in expression, 61 DEPs were identified in EOS TBBx, 56 of which were upregulated and 5 were downregulated. High-protein overlap (74.84%) was found between ACR and EOS groups. Several proteins such as Serpins, CFL-1, MIF, DDX3X, CCT8, Gal-3, Coro1A, Collagens and Mucins were upregulated in EOS TBBx. IHC staining validated alterations in the expression of target proteins. Bioinformatic analysis further revealed that most DEPs in EOS TBBx are related to leukocytes migration and activation, inflammasome formation, free radical production and oxidative stress, epithelial mesenchymal transition and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix.
Conclusions: This study discovers and validates specific proteomic signatures that link EOS with ACR and elucidates mechanisms of injurious allograft inflammation. A number of novel therapeutic targets and potential early biomarkers are identified for allograft inflammation which require future diagnostic and prognostic validation.
Different Approaches for the Solutions of Nonlinear Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs (LGH) Equation
Authors: Ege Serife Muge
Published: February 2024

In this work , we handle the nonlinear Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs (LGH) equation. Some different semianalytical solutions are obtained by using three different auxilary equation methods in the traveling wave sense. Each methods gives a couple of solutions and all cases are investigated. Obtained solutions are represented by graphically to see the structure of the wave. Changes in the wave structure according to changing parameters are observed.
Patterns of a structural covariance network associated with Mild Behavioural Impairment in biologically defined Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Michelutti Marco , Urso Daniele , Tafuri Benedetta , Gnoni Valentina , Giugno Alessia , Zecca Chiara , Dell’Abate Maria Teresa , Vilella Davide , Manganotti Paolo , Blasi Roberto , Nigro Salvatore , Logroscino Giancarlo
Published: February 2024

Background: The frequent presentation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in the context of normal or minimally-impaired cognitive function led to the concept of Mild Behavioral Impairment (MBI). While MBI's impact on subsequent cognitive decline is recognized, its association with brain network changes in biologically-defined AD remains unexplored.
Methods: We investigated correlations between structural covariance networks and MBI-C checklist sub-scores in 33 biologically-defined AD patients (ranging from Mild Cognitive Impairment to early dementia). Network properties were assessed through graph theory analysis. The subjects were all characterized as amyloid-positive, whether assessed through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis or amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) scans.
Results: Affective dysregulation correlated with decreased segregation and integration in the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). Impulse dyscontrol and social inappropriateness correlated positively with centrality and efficiency in the right posterior cingulum cortex (PCC). Global network properties showed a preserved small-world organization.
Conclusions: This study reveals associations between MBI subdomains and structural brain network alterations in biologically-confirmed AD. Our data suggest that the IFG's involvement is crucial for mood dysregulation in AD, while PCC could be involved in compensatory mechanisms in respect to social cognition and impulse control. In conclusion, our findings provide further evidence that network changes in specific brain regions may be related to NPS across the AD spectrum and underscore the significance of biomarker-based neuroimaging for precise differential diagnosis of MBI.
Evaluating the accuracy of APHRODITE and CHIRPS satellite-based precipitation products for meteorological drought
Authors: Suliman Ali H. Ahmed , Rajab Jasim M. , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: February 2024

Drought, a serious natural hazard, significantly impacts agriculture, especially in dry regions. Iraq faces a high drought risk yet suffers from a scarcity of rainfall gauges for effective monitoring. Therefore, adequate and accurate datasets are crucial for the country's spatiotemporal classification and monitoring of droughts. This study investigates the feasibility of calculating the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) at various meteorological ground stations (GS) using monthly precipitation data from satellite-based precipitation products (SbPP). For spatial comparisons, Iraq was divided into three Köppen climate zones. Monthly time series from the Asian Precipitation Highly Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards Evaluation (APHRODITE) (1983–2007) and Climate Hazards Group of Infra-Red Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) (1983–2017) were statistically compared against GS data in these zones for estimating droughts at 3-, 6-, and 12-month timescales. The SbPPs exhibited reasonable correlations with GS data and effectively represented the spatial distribution of rainfall. A good level of consistency was observed between APHRODITE and GS values in estimating SPI in high-rainfall zones. The study concludes that APHRODITE outperforms CHIRPS in determining the spatial and temporal distribution of droughts in Iraq.
Effects of an HMD-based Attention System on Head and Eye Movement Strategies of Patients with Spatial Neglect
Authors: Kudo Akira , Kato Norio , Miura Takahiro , Tanaka Toshiaki
Published: February 2024

Background
Spatial neglect is a visual cognitive impairment that causes patients to ignore the space on the contralateral side of the lesion. Here, we confirmed neglect symptoms using spatial differences, investigated the influence of the attention system, and investigated head and eye movements in patients with spatial neglect using a head-mounted display (HMD).
Methods
We recruited eight participants who had a stroke with right-sided lesions (left-sided neglect) and evaluated their neglect symptoms using the Behavioral Inattention Test and Catherine Bergego Scale Test. Participants performed a cube cancellation task in near and far space, using both an HMD-based normal condition and an attention system.
Results
In near space, no significant differences were observed in the cancellation task performance, but a significant difference was detected in gaze distribution, and a positive correlation was detected in the head and eye movement angles. In far space, a significant difference in the cancellation task performance and gaze distribution, along with a positive correlation among the head and eye movement angles, were observed.
Conclusions
These findings do not significantly refute the results of the cancellation task, but they do suggest that the attentional system may positively influence spatial neglect in terms of head and eye movement strategies.
Data-driven characterization of traumatic brain injury severity from clinical, neuroimaging, and blood-based indicators
Authors: Nelson Lindsay , Magnus Brooke , Yue John , Balsis Steve , Patrick Christopher , Temkin Nancy , Diaz-Arrastia Ramon , Manley Goeffrey
Published: February 2024

The conventional clinical approach to characterizing traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) as mild, moderate, or severe using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) total score has well-known limitations, prompting calls for more sophisticated strategies to characterize TBI. Here, we use item response theory (IRT) to develop a novel method for quantifying TBI severity that incorporates neuroimaging and blood-based biomarkers along with clinical measures. Within the multicenter Transforming Research and Clinical Knowledge in TBI (TRACK-TBI) study sample (N = 2545), we show that a set of 23 clinical, head computed tomography (CT), and blood-based biomarker variables familiar to clinicians and researchers index a common latent continuum of TBI severity. We illustrate how IRT can be used to identify the relative value of these features to estimate an individual’s position along the TBI severity continuum. Finally, we show that TBI severity scores generated using this novel IRT-based method incrementally predict functional outcome over classic clinical (mild, moderate, severe) or International Mission for Prognosis and Analysis of Clinical Trials in TBI (IMPACT) classification methods. Our findings directly inform ongoing international efforts to refine and deploy new pragmatic, empirically-supported strategies for characterizing TBI, while illustrating a strategy that may be useful to evolve staging systems for other diseases.
Officer Gunpoint During Police Stops: Repercussions for Youth Mental Health and Perceived Safety
Authors: Jackson Dylan B. , Fix Rebecca L. , Semenza Daniel C. , Testa Alexander , Ward Julie A. , Crifasi Cassandra K.
Published: February 2024

Objective
The present study investigates patterns of officer gunpoint exposure in youths’ direct and witnessed in-person police stops, and whether these exposures shape emotional distress, police violence stress, police avoidance, and diminished safety perceptions.
Methods
Data come from the Survey of Police-Adolescent Contact Experiences (SPACE), a cross-sectional survey of a community-based sample of Black youth ages 12–21 in Baltimore City, Maryland (n = 335), administered from August 2022 to July 2023. We used multivariable negative binomial regression and ordinary least squares regression to estimate direct associations and the Karlson-Holm-Breen method to test for mediation.
Results
Findings indicate that ~ 19% of youth in the full sample, and ~ 33% of youth reporting in-person stops, had been exposed to officer gunpoint during the course of one or more police stops. Net of covariates, experiencing officer gunpoint in multiple stop contexts (e.g., direct and witnessed) was associated with a 188% increase in the rate of emotional distress during stops. Significant associations between officer gunpoint during stops and current police violence stress, police avoidance, and diminished safety perceptions also emerged, and were largely explained by heightened emotional distress among youth at the time of police stops.
Conclusions
Findings suggest that a sizeable subset of our sample had been exposed to officer gunpoint during in-person police stops, and that these exposures may harm the mental health and safety perceptions of youth. Public health approaches are needed to mitigate the mental health harms of experiencing officer gunpoint during adolescence.
Ketogenic Diet Ameliorates NAFLD via Balancing Mitochondrial Dynamics and Improving Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: You Yuehua , Ni Hongbin , Ma Qin , Jiang Lincheng , Cai Jingshu , He Wenjun , Lin Xiaojing , Li Kemeng , Wang Zhuyun , Yan Weiyan , Xiao Xiaoqiu , Ma Li
Published: February 2024

Background & Aims:
The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) imposes a huge burden on global health management. The ketogenic diet (KD) is considered to be an effective lifestyle to manage NAFLD. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of KD on metabolic endpoints in NAFLD mice and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Methods
High fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD mice were fed with/without KD for 2 weeks in contrast with standard diet-fed (SD) mice. The metabolic endpoints of SD and NAFLD mice were determined by measuring liver fat and plasma ALT and AST. Then mitochondrial morphology of the liver was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Western blot was performed to identify the changes of mitochondrial dynamics related proteins. Mitochondrial function was assessed by qPCR and ATP content measurement. In vitro, HepG2 cells were treated with palmitic acid (PA), β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-OHB) and/or MFI8. Tom20 fluorescence staining was used to assess mitochondrial morphology. Mitochondrial function was assessed by qPCR, ATP content measurement and JC-1 staining. Furthermore, lipid deposition was examined by Nile Red and BODIPY staining.
Results
KD feeding for 2 weeks showed the improvement on NAFLD phenotype, which was associated withdecreased levels of Fis1 and Drp1 in the liver of NAFLD mice. Furthermore, KD also improved HFD-induced mitochondrial dysfunction as evidence by increased ATP content and the key genes involved in fatty acid oxidation. In vitro, β-OHB also improved PA-induced mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction in HepG2 cells. Moreover, β-OHB alleviated PA-induced lipid accumulation, and this effect was blunted by mitochondrial fusion inhibitor MFI8.
Conclusions
Collectively, these findings indicated that KD feeding improved lipid accumulation, balanced mitochondrial dynamics and improved mitochondrial dysfunction in the liver of NAFLD mice.
Influence of the use of a tablet-based clinical decision support algorithm by general practitioners on the consultation process: the example of FeverTravelApp
Authors: Vibert Jonas , Bourquin Céline , Santis Olga , Cobuccio Ludovico , D’Acremont Valérie
Published: February 2024

Aims of the studyDespite proven positive effects on general practitioners’ (GPs) performance and on the management of patients and treatments, adoption of clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) is slow. Several elements have been put forward to explain this reluctance of GPs to adopt these tools. We hypothesise that their influence on patient-physician interaction could play a determining role. We use the case of FeverTravelApp, an App created to help general practitioners manage patients with fever upon return from the tropics.MethodsWe conducted a case-control study by observing and analysing fourteen consultations between seven physicians - using or not the FeverTravelApp - and three simulated patients. Each consultation was video-recorded and analysed using an analysis grid created for the study based on 3 existing tools. To our knowledge, there is no tool that can sufficiently capture the influence of an App on the consultation. After each consultation, simulated patients had to complete the Communication Assessment Tool (CAT), a validated tool for the evaluation of physicians' communication skills by their patients. Finally, each physician underwent a semi-structured interview after using the App. Every physician and simulated patient gave their written informed consent to participate in the study.ResultsThe use of the App influenced many aspects of the consultation, particularly at the level of communication. While using the App, both patients’ and GPs’ talking time decreased and active silence (no one talking while the GP actively performs a task) increased. The GPs tended to watch the App at the expense of the time spent gazing at their patient. However, this strong influence at this level seemed to bother the GPs more than the simulated patients who rated their GP equally when the latter was using the App. This could be explained by the fact that the patients felt better understood by their GP who asked less questions but more specific to a travel medicine consultation and seemed, as a consequence, to understand their problem better.ConclusionsThis study supports the hypothesis that the influence of CDSS on consultation plays a determining role in the difficulty of their implementation. Clinicians should be included as early as possible in the development of the CDSS in order to adapt it to their clinical habits, but also to ensure interoperability of the systems to avoid administrative duplication. In addition, it seems that a tool which allows the clinician to follow the whole clinical reasoning is needed. This could for example take the form of a decision tree. Further research is needed to confirm our findings when CDSSs are used to manage real patients, the ultimate goal being to create CDSSs that are in line with both patients’ and GPs’ expectations.
Acute exercise-induced inflammatory and thrombotic response in hypertensive patients
Authors: Liakos Charalampos I. , Aggeli Constantina , Toutouzas Konstantinos P. , Markou Maria I. , Vyssoulis Gregory P. , Tsioufis Constantinos
Published: February 2024

Background/Objective: Vigorous physical activity may acutely trigger the onset of an acute coronary syndrome especially in sedentary persons with established cardiovascular risk factors such as arterial hypertension. The rupture of an inflamed coronary plaque and the activation of the coagulation cascade are the main underlying mechanisms. The present study aimed to determine the effect of acute exercise on the inflammatory and thrombotic response in patients with arterial hypertension as compared to normotensive peers.
Methods: After excluding patients with any inflammatory or/and coronary artery disease, a total of 60 non-treated hypertensive patients and 65 normotensive individuals underwent a maximal treadmill exercise testing. Βlood samples were drawn at rest and immediately after peak exercise. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), white blood cell (WBC), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and total fibrinogen (TF) levels, as well as plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) activity were measured.
Results: All biomarkers increased with exercise, except PAI-1, which decreased (P<0.05 for the change between resting and peak exercise for all biomarkers). The normotensive group had less marked (P<0.05) exercise-induced changes than the hypertensive group in hsCRP (7.7 vs. 8.6%), SAA (5.6 vs. 11.9%), WBC (45.0 vs. 51.7%), and PAI-1 (-17.3 vs. -20.1%) and a similar (P=NS) change in IL-6 (23.8 vs. 23.0%) and TF (8.5 vs. 8.5%).
Conclusion: In conclusion, the acute exercise-induced inflammatory and thrombotic response seems to be more pronounced in non-treated hypertensive patients than in normotensive controls. The effect of blood-pressure lowering treatment on the exercise-induced acute phase response remains to be elucidated.
A One-dimensional Model of the Lymph Flow in a Contractile Lymphangion
Authors: Girelli Alberto
Published: February 2024

The lymphatic system relies on the rhythmic contractions of lymphangions to move lymph against the pressure gradient caused by the heart's pulsation. Lymphangions are the segments of the collecting lymphatic vessels between two valves, and they function as both pumps and conduits, contracting to push lymph forward against adverse pressure gradients and serving as conduits when there is a favorable pressure gradient, inhibiting contractions with the help of nitric oxide. In this paper, we propose a one-dimensional model using the theory of quasilinear hyperbolic systems to describe the fluid flow in a lymphangion. To this aim, we use a phenomenological pressure-cross sectional area relationship taking into account most of the information available in the literature. We solve the obtained differential equations numerically and the solution obtained is in accordance with the literature results. Furthermore, through the solution derived from these numerical simulations, we gain the capability to elucidate and enhance our comprehension of lymphatic flow dynamics within the lymphangion.
The impact of intermittent and continuous training on the levels of CIDE and Perilipin-1 proteins and their effect on the size of lipid droplets in the visceral adipose tissue of obese male rats
Authors: Bai Yan , Yang Xiao , Li Jian
Published: February 2024

Background: Intense interval training and moderate-intensity continuous exercise produce lipid droplets that change size and impact visceral adipose tissue.
Methods: 50 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups, each consisting of 8 rats, in order to accomplish this objective. Regarding dietary intake, 2 clusters of 32 rats were subjected to a normal or elevated fat diet over 10 weeks. Post the induction of obesity, 16 animals were euthanized, with an equal number originating from both the high-fat and normal diet cohorts. The ramifications of a high-fat diet were examined through the utilization of samples. The remaining 24 rats were randomly allocated to 3 groups: a sedentary high-fat diet control group, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol group, and a moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) protocol group. The 12-week training program had 5 sessions per week. Western blot measurement of perilipin-1, CIDE, and Oil-Red proteins assessed lipid droplet size.
Results:Research indicates that HIIT and MICT training significantly decreased CIDEc protein levels (p<0.05) but not CIDEa. CIDEc protein upregulation and perilipin-1 downregulation cause obesity in high-fat diets.
Conclusion:HIIT and MICT training reduce fat droplet size and CIDEc protein production. Enhancing perilipin-1, which breaks down fats, may reduce obesity by lowering lipid droplets and weight.
Influence of Matrix and the Fibre Orientation on the Mechanical Performance and Slope Protection of Three Dimensional Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats
Authors: R Manju , T Sakthivel , U Sindhu Vaardini
Published: February 2024

Slope protection is necessary to prevent wave action from causing erosion on the upstream slope. In sufficient slope protection, an upstream slope might develop a major erosion problem. Slopes can be stabilized by adding a surface cover, digging and modifying (or regrading) the slope geometry, installing support structures to buttress the slope, or controlling groundwater in slope material through drainage. Though the types are typically involved in high manpower and time, In the recent past, Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats (GCCMs) reinforced with spacer fabric has become increasingly popular because of its lightweight, high strength, and minimal contamination when compared to standard concrete. It is a potential material for use in various civil engineering disciplines, including water construction, pipelining, slope protection, military applications, and so on. In this study, CC slope protection's mechanical characteristics and stability are examined. First, the tensile strength and compressive strength of CC were tested. Short-term laboratory testing results show that the tensile and flexural strength of 3D spacer Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats is relatively higher, and it is very durable. For Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats, there was more constraint in the direction of the load applied, which caused the tensile stress and flexural strength that were created in the matrix to be higher.
Netflix Stock Price Movements Prediction Using News Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Phong Nguyen Anh , Long Nguyen Cao
Published: February 2024

This study aims to evaluate the influence of sentiment on stock prices and thereby forecast stock prices on Netflix using machine learning technology. To do this, the author collected information about news articles related to Netflix from the Nasdaq website and Netflix stock prices from the Yahoo Finance website from 2018 to 2022. The author used three machine learning methods including: Multinomial Naive Bayes model with the Bag of Words, Multinomial Naive Bayes model using TF-IDF and Multinomial Naive Bayes model using Word2vec encoding to evaluate the forecasting performance. The results show that the most effective forecasting model is Multinomial Naive Bayes model using Word2vec encoding, from which it is recommended to adjust stock price forecasting models through sentiment from press news, so consider this model in forecast.
JEL Classification Codes: C11, C53, E37
Exploring the Physical and Optoelectronic Properties of Co 2 ZrZ Compounds: Insights from Computational Analysis and Thermoelectric Characterization
Authors: Houari Mohammed. , Mesbah Smain , Lantri Tayeb , Bouadjemi Bouabdellah , Boucherdoud Ahmed , Khatar Abdelhak , Akham Amel , Haid Slimane , Achour Belkacem , Bentata Samir , Matougui Mohamed
Published: February 2024

The current study examines the physical properties of Co2ZrZ compounds (Z= Pb, Bi and As) using the Wien2k calculation code. The Anisimov and Gunnarsson approach is used to calculate the Hubbard parameters for Cobalt (Co) and Zirconium (Zr). The results indicate that Co2ZrBi and Co2ZrAs have metallic characteristic, however Co2ZrPb displays semi-metallic behaviour. The energy gap calculations provide values of 0.328 eV (GGA) and 1.102 eV (mBJ-GGA) in the G-X-direction. The valence bands of Co2ZrBi and Co2ZrAs are primarily influenced by the Co-D-eg and Co-D-t2g states in both spin channels. Infrared transitions with energy levels below 0.56 eV indicate a decrease in the ability of electrons to move, which is compensated by an increase in ultraviolet absorption. The Co2ZrZ compounds have potential for space solar energy applications as they possess the ability to absorb UV light and improve conductivity. The effective ultraviolet (UV) absorption of Co2ZrPb has the potential to be advantageous for satellites and space missions. Within the high-energy range, the refractive index decreases to a value below one, which signifies "Super-luminescence". Additionally, plasmatic oscillations have a further impact on optics. The thermoelectric investigation of Co2ZrPb using BoltzTraP code reveals a predominance of P-type charge carriers, suggesting a high level of electrical conductivity and a low resistance. The ZT values of Co2ZrPb oscillate between 0.99 (at 50 K) and 0.84 (at 1500 K), which are close to unity, this indicates that Co2ZrPb is appropriate for thermoelectric applications.
Mast cells express IL17A, IL17F and RORC, are activated and persist with IL-17 production in resolved skin of patients with chronic plaque-type psoriasis
Authors: Benezeder Theresa , Bordag Natalie , Woltsche Johannes , Teufelberger Andrea , Perchthaler Isabella , Weger Wolfgang , Salmhofer Wolfgang , Gruber-Wackernagel Alexandra , Painsi Clemens , Zhan Qian , El-Heliebi Amin , Babina Magda , Clark Rachael , Wolf Peter
Published: February 2024

Little is known about IL-17 expression in psoriasis and the actual cellular source of IL-17 remains incompletely defined. We show that high numbers of IL-17 + mast cells persisted in resolved lesions after treatment (anti-IL-17A, anti-IL-23, UVB or topical dithranol) and correlated inversely with the time span in remission. IL-17 + mast cells were found in T cell-rich areas and often close to resident memory T cells (TRM) in active psoriasis and resolved lesional skin. Digital cytometry by deconvolution of RNA-seq data showed that activated mast cells were increased in psoriatic skin, while resting mast cells were almost absent and both returned to normal levels after treatment. When primary human skin mast cells were stimulated with T cell cytokines (TNFα, IL-22 and IFNγ), they responded by releasing more IL-17A, as measured by ELISA. In situ mRNA detection using padlock probes specific for transcript variants of IL17A, IL17F, and RORC (encoding the Th17 transcription factor RORγt) revealed positive mRNA signals for IL17A, IL17F, and RORC in tryptase + cells, demonstrating that mast cells have the transcriptional machinery to actively produce IL-17. Mast cells thus belong to the center of the IL-23/IL-17 axis and high numbers of IL-17 + mast cells predict an earlier disease recurrence.
A parallel randomised trial testing community fibrosis assessment for suspected non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Outcomes from LOCATE-NAFLD
Authors: Tulleners Ruth , Barnett Adrian , O'Beirne James , Powell Elizabeth , Hickman Ingrid , Valery Patricia , Kularatna Sanjeewa , Stuart Katherine , McIvor Carolyn , Witness Elen , Aikebuse Melanie , Brain David
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is estimated to affect a third of Australian adults, and its prevalence is predicted to rise, increasing the burden on the healthcare system. LOCATE-NAFLD trialled a community-based fibrosis assessment service using Fibroscan to reduce the time to diagnosis of high-risk NAFLD and improve patient outcomes.
Methods
We conducted a 1:1 parallel randomised trial to compare two alternative models of care for NAFLD diagnosis and assessment. Participants had suspected NAFLD and were referred to a hepatology clinic in one of three major hospitals in South-East Queensland. Eligible consenting participants were randomised to receive usual care or the intervention (LOCATE). Participants in the intervention arm received a Fibroscan outside of the hospital setting, with results provided to their primary care provider and the referring hepatologist. All participants were followed up 12 months after randomisation to measure their clinical and patient-reported outcomes.
Results
Ninety-seven participants were recruited from October 2020 to December 2022, of which 49 were randomised to receive the intervention. The intervention demonstrated a decrease in the time to high-risk diagnosis. However, the 95% credible interval for the hazard ratio was wide. The median reduction in ‘time to scan’ in the intervention was close to one year. Other clinical outcomes showed minimal changes.
Conclusions
The LOCATE model shows potential for impact, particularly in reducing waiting times for patients at high risk of developing severe liver disease due to NAFLD. A larger sample and longer follow-ups are needed to measure additional clinical outcomes.
Development of a Hydroponic Growing Protocol for Vegetative Strawberry Production
Authors: Yafuso Erin J. , Boldt Jennifer K.
Published: February 2024

Hydroponic growing systems are advantageous for nutrient studies in which root data are important because they alleviate the laborious and time-consuming task of washing roots to remove soilless substrate particulates from them. However, the growing system should be optimized for the crop of interest. Our overall objective was to develop a protocol for hydroponic strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) production that provided growth equal to or better than soilless substrate. Plants were initially grown in perlite, sand, deep water culture (DWC), or a peat-based soilless substrate. Aboveground plant growth in DWC was similar to that of plants grown in the peat-based substrate and required minimal effort to harvest the entire root system. However, the pH of the DWC nutrient solution decreased to 4.0 ± 0.1 (mean ± SE) when plants were provided a modified strawberry (Yamazaki) nutrient solution with a ratio of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonium (NH4+) of 80:20. As a result, a subsequent trial was conducted to evaluate the buffering capacity of nutrient solutions with NO3− to NH4+ ratios of 0:100, 20:80, 50:50, 60:40, 80:20, or 100:0, with the addition of potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3). Up to 2.6 mM KHCO3 did not provide adequate buffering in nutrient solutions containing NH4+ (0:100 to 80:20 treatments), and nutrient solution pH decreased by ∼1.5 units every 2 to 3 days. The 100% NO3− nutrient solution, however, maintained a stable pH of 5.9 ± 0.1 when buffered with 0.8 mM KHCO3. Finally, 2(N-Morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES) was evaluated as a potential buffering agent for DWC strawberry production. Plants were grown in a nutrient solution with a 60:40 ratio of NO3−:NH4+. The buffering capacity of the nutrient solution increased as the MES concentration supplied increased from 1 to 5 mM, and the 5 mM MES treatment maintained a pH of 5.6 ± 0.2. In summary, strawberry plants can successfully be grown hydroponically in DWC, provided that nutrient solution pH is adequately managed. The addition of MES buffer provided better pH stability than KHCO3.
Yield and Photosynthesis Related to Growth Forms of Two Strawberry Cultivars in a Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting
Authors: Takahashi Asaya , Yasutake Daisuke , Hidaka Kota , Ono Shintaro , Kitano Masaharu , Hirota Tomoyoshi , Yokoyama Gaku , Nakamura Takeshi , Toro Minami
Published: February 2024

Appropriate growth forms for strawberry production in a plant factory with artificial lighting (PFAL), which is a recently developed production system, remain undetermined. Improving strawberry productivity in a PFAL requires insights into the interplay between production characteristics (growth and photosynthesis) and growth forms, such as plant height and leaf area (LA), which are major determinants of crop yield. Growth status, yield, and photosynthetic characteristics of the two cultivars of strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch. Tochiotome and Koiminori) with different growth forms were examined. ‘Koiminori’ exhibited a 1.9-fold higher yield and a 2.0-fold greater total dry weight of respective organs compared with ‘Tochiotome’. The single-plant photosynthetic rate (AP), serving as an index for both cultivars, was 2.2-times higher for Koiminori than for Tochiotome. The photosynthetic rates of a single leaf (AL) and LA were also analyzed as important factors that influence the AP. The AL for ‘Koiminori’ surpassed that of ‘Tochiotome’ by 1.4 times. This was attributed to the elevated photosynthetic photon flux density received by the upper leaves of Koiminori, which is a consequence of its higher plant height in proximity to the light source. Evaluation of four photosynthetic capacities, maximum rate of carboxylation, maximum rate of electron transport, photosynthetic rate under saturating light, and light utilization efficiency, which are potential factors that affect AL, revealed no differences in these capacities between cultivars. ‘Koiminori’ exhibited a significantly larger LA (2.3- to 3.1-times) than ‘Tochiotome’, indicating that the former’s higher AP resulted mainly from its higher AL and larger LA. Thus, strawberry production in a PFAL can be improved by growing cultivars with growth forms such as higher plant height and larger LA.
Perceptions and Socioeconomic Status Influence Purchases of Native Plants
Authors: Torres Ariana P. , Rihn Alicia L. , Barton Susan S. , Behe Bridget K.
Published: February 2024

Plants native to the United States, defined as those being present before European settlement, have aesthetic and environmental benefits. In 2018, only 10% of plant sales were native plants, a plant category that tends to be underrepresented in many residential and commercial landscapes. Although earlier research indicated that consumers find native plants less aesthetically appealing relative to introduced species, more recent research reported a growing demand for native plants. Thus, a better understanding of consumer perceptions would facilitate their marketing. We used an online survey of 1824 participants representing five geographic regions (West, Southwest, Midwest, Southeast, and Northwest) to classify adopters based on their purchase of native plants. A double-hurdle model was used to estimate factors influencing purchasing native plants among US homeowners, and the factors influencing the amount spent on native plants in 2021. Demographically, metropolitan, college-educated, and younger participants were more likely to be native plant adopters; they also spent 80% more on plants compared with nonnative plant adopters. More native plant adopters agreed that native plants were better for the environment than exotic plants (68%), are readily available in their area (67%), and are better adapted to difficult sites (75%). Marketing efforts should capitalize on the environmental benefits to stimulate purchases.
S.I. Dudnik as a Historian of Political Thought
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Kuznetsov Nikita V. , Osipov Igor D. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: February 2024

The article is devoted to the work of the famous scholar, Doctor of Philosophy, Professor S.I. Dudnik, Head of the Department of the History of Philosophy and Director of the Institute of Philosophy of St. Petersburg State University. The most important provisions of his concept of the history of political thought, the formation of Russian statehood, the principles of constitutionalism and the rule of law are considered. In his works, he focused on the need for a synthesis of historical-philosophical, socio-cultural and axiological studies. The views of S.I. Dudnik on the theoretical foundations and humanistic aspects of the political philosophy of classical and Soviet Marxism, the features of the ideology of socialism and conservatism, the prerequisites for the “totalitarian mutation” of the Soviet society. The article also examines the works by S.I. Dudnik devoted to the traditions of philosophical education at St. Petersburg University. These include receptivity to everything relevant and progressive in world philosophy, a close connection with classical domestic and world philosophy, the development of a methodology for politics and political culture. It is shown that the scholar analyzed the St. Petersburg experience of the modernization process through the development of scientific knowledge in Russia during the eighteenth — twentieth centuries and the formation of science as a social institution in the life of Russian society. A special place in Russian science is occupied with the research by S.I. Dudnik of the transformation of education in the digital age, the modern Russian education system. The article emphasizes that Professor S.I. Dudnik is a worthy representative of the St. Petersburg philosophical school, a successor to its best traditions; under his leadership, the Institute of Philosophy of St. Petersburg University has consolidated its position as the flagship of domestic philosophical research, one of the centers of world philosophy.
F.M. Dostoevsky and T.G. Masaryk. Tragic Humanism and the Philosophy of Crisis
Authors:   P.J. Safarik University, Nezník Peter , Artamoshkina Ludmila ,   Museum-apartment of Lev Gumilyov
Published: February 2024

The article presents a comparative analysis of the views by Dostoevsky and Masaryk on the nature of humanism in times of crisis. The focus of the author‘s attention is aimed, firstly, at the attitude of both thinkers to the “last” questions of human life, which for the Russian writer and for the Czech philosopher were directly related to the problem of suicide. Dostoevsky, whose novels contain a whole gallery of the types of suicides, considers that social disease in the context of atheistic logic that gave rise to the “nihilistic demonism”. Masaryk removed the problem of suicide from the field of psychopathology, analyzing its philosophical and historical meaning and social consequences. The triumph of atheism and nihilism appears to both thinkers as a harbinger of the coming revolutionary upheavals, a pagan uprising of the masses. Secondly, the article demonstrates how, in the situation of the crisis of Christianity, which became the painful axis of the entire European civilization, the content of humanism is updated in accordance with the challenges of the time. Anticipating the emergence of a “new element” in the world history, Dostoevsky outlined the contours of the solution of the “Russian” and “Slavic” issues. He remained a supporter of the mystical unity of the national principle and religiosity and affirmed the redemptive power of Christian humanism. Masaryk consistently criticized the relics of mythological consciousness from the standpoint of the classical principle of rationality and humanism, which he understood as a supranational phenomenon — a non-violent form of life, achieved not extensively, but intensively through the active humanization of oneself. In a dialogue with Dostoevsky, the Czech thinker overcame the tragic experience of the philosophical and historical crisis, offering a position of “concreticism and pluralism”, which allows one to perceive reality in its entirety and cultivate love for an individual person.
Dialogue with Ancientry: V.Rozanov on the Ancient Egyptian Civilization
Authors:   University of Novi Sad, Milentijevic Lazar
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the author aims to analyze the cultural and historical view of religious, philosophical, and mystical searches of Ancient Egyptian in the works by V.Rozanov. The interest in the Egyptian civilization, as an important feature of the turn of the-century era, shows V.Rozanov’s desire to carry out a dialogue with ancientry, from which all religious and philosophical concepts originate. The purpose of the research is to represent the views of V.Rozanov concerning the themes of immortality and deities in Ancient Egypt, the principles of astrology and cosmogony in the culture of ancientry, as well as the relationship of the Ancient Egyptian and Christian religions. According to V.Rozanov, Ancient Egypt was a land, where the principle of silence hided life force and vitality, which has found expression in the longevity of civilization. V.Rozanov focuses on the idea that the Ancient Egyptians were the most religious people that presented the developed doctrine of immortality, which became the fundamental thought of their religion. Rozanov shows the role of stellar astrology, physical and natural phenomena, and also underlines varieties of the religious cult that existed in Egypt, in which he highlights the images of Osiris and Isis. Rozanov particularly notes that, despite the belief in spells and wizardry, the Ancient Egyptian overcame the fear of the mysterious and unknown at a certain stage of development, and then made efforts to build a connection with It.
The Impact of new Social Media Strategies on Vaccine Uptake and Coverage_ Do they Really Make a Difference?
Authors: Javed Muhammad Arsham , Usman Muhammad Ashhad , Arqam Muhammad , Ans Muhammad , Asad Muhammad , Rasool Alishba , Tufail Muhammad , Afzal Saira
Published: February 2024

Objective: The information available about the use and effectiveness of new social media strategies remains ungauged. The objective of this systematic review is to gather and summarize the data available about the utility of new social media strategies and their impact on vaccine uptake and coverage. In addition, our aim is to give appropriate suggestions to the concerned authorities relating to the use of such social media strategies to cope with the rising incidences of myriads of diseases. Methodology: The review considered articles from global sources. PRISMA guidelines were followed. PubMed and Google Scholar were queried. Inclusion and exclusion criteria about the new social media strategies in relation to vaccination were applied, and data extraction included author details, publication specifics, study populations, exposure measures, and outcomes. Results: Out of 470 records, five studies met inclusion criteria, conducted between 2018 and 2022, focusing on different vaccines. Study designs encompassed randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and mixed methods research, with interventions ranging from Facebook campaigns to web-based information and digital reminders. Social media interventions generally exhibited a positive influence on vaccine uptake and coverage, though outcomes varied based on specific interventions and target populations. Conclusions: The data available is meagre. More research in this domain should be encouraged. However, we can conclude that social media can effectively increase vaccine uptake and coverage. To combat vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, government agencies and organizations should leverage social media's reach.
Causes of Suicides in Pakistan
Authors: Zahra Shah Gul , Elahi Mussavir , Saleem Semil , Noor Sania , Rehman Muneeb ur , Zubair Muhammad , Ali Sarah , Ejaz Muhammad Anas , Faiz Muneeb , Butt Shafeen Bashir , Saeed Athar Ahmed , Salman Fariha
Published: February 2024

Background: Suicide is a complex phenomenon that involves social, cultural, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Pakistan is a low-income Muslim country, in which suicide cases have increased in recent years. Aim: Our review focuses on the causes of suicide in Pakistan. Methodology: A systematic review was done to find out about the causes of suicide in Pakistan. Databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct were searched using keywords like “suicide”, “suicide attempt”, “etiology”, “causes”, and “Pakistan”. A total of 208 articles were screened out of which only 7 met our inclusion criteria. The rest were excluded because the data wasn’t of Pakistan or wasn’t just limited to Pakistan, Qualitative data were extracted from these articles and were tabulated and exposed to the major causes of suicide in Pakistan. Results: Systematic review was conducted to find out about the causes of suicide in different age groups, genders, and regional groups. The majority of suicides were linked to domestic problems. Most suicide attempts were done by females, married people, and youth, indicating the strong association of gender bias, family disputes, and depression, with suicide. Mental health problems, unemployment and prolonged illnesses, and low income also contributed a great deal to suicide. Other causes like social injustice, failure in love, failure in exams, bullying, and sexual abuse were also there. There is a need for greater attention and in-depth studies to elaborate on causative mechanisms for these public health issues. Conclusions: The most common reasons that compel an individual to take his/her own life are depression/mental illness, socioeconomic conditions, domestic violence and disputes, unemployment, and some major failure in life.