bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O sábio e o alquimista: considerações sobre חכמה e o Homo Faber em Êxodo à luz de Mircea Eliade
Authors: Carmo Felipe Silva
Published: August 2023

O estudo atual da sabedoria bíblica implica, entre os acadêmicos envolvidos com o tema, a revisitação e reelaboração de conceitos tradicionais, usualmente aplicados de forma limitadora ao entendimento do assunto. Como procedimento corrente nos estudos bíblicos direcionados à sabedoria, este trabalho se propõe à análise do termo חָכְמָח em um contexto específico, associado ao “ofício”, à “habilidade manual” ou à “perícia”: as porções de Êxodo que envolvem a realização de incumbências para a edificação do tabernáculo por Bezalel e Aoliabe. Para que a leitura seja aprofundada, o artigo parte das elaborações teóricas de Mircea Eliade sobre o Homo Faber, especificamente em sua relação com a prática metalúrgica como precursora da filosofia alquímica. O artigo constata que a atuação de Bezalel e Aolibe se adapta consideravelmente às elaborações de Eliade, já que a atividade dos artesãos é expressa como incumbência divina, experiência sobrenatural, ação mágica-ritualística e mímica do ato criativo da divindade para a edificação do tabernáculo como imago mundi.
O Canaanismo e as questões identitárias em Minotauro, de Benjamin Tammuz
Authors: Eliezer Juliana Carvalho
Published: August 2023

O presente artigo busca examinar de que forma os temas do Canaanismo e das questões identitárias israelenses permeiam o texto de Minotauro, romance de Benjamin Tammuz publicado na década de 1980. Discute-se como o autor se vale da narrativa circular - labiríntica - do romance para tratar do assunto das identidades cindidas, personificado pela personagem principal, e da ideologia canaanita, pregadora de uma identidade hebraica ligada à terra e compartilhada por toda a população da área do Crescente Fértil, através do discurso de uma das personagens secundárias. A análise da personagem principal, Alex Abramov, o minotauro que dá título à obra, perpassa o mito grego mas também o mito de Barthes, em que a realidade é suscetível de deformação pelos sistemas de símbolos transmitido por cada sociedade, evidenciando peças de uma identidade construída e desmembrada, para o que o Canaanismo poderia eventualmente ser uma resposta válida.
“This dybbuk was also haunting Ashkenazim”: cross-cultural solidarity through the lenses of performance and animation in Almog Behar’s “Ana Min Al-Yahud”
Authors: Gimenez Marian Gabani
Published: August 2023

The trope of the dybbuk is ubiquitous in modern Jewish storytelling, and its secular renditions offer myriad of possibilities: from feminist resistance to the male gaze to a place where belonging and estrangement are negotiated in the context of immigration and exile. This article discusses the uses of the dybbuk in Almog Behar’s short story “Ana Min Al-Yahud” through the lenses of animation as a trope of analysis, as theorized by Teri Silvio, in performance studies. It argues that the trope of the dybbuk is not only an intradiegetic element that helps the characters to make sense of the phenomenon they are experiencing, but also an extradiegetic force that inserts Behar’s story in a much wider tradition, drawing a continuum in the history of Jewish storytelling and opening, with the text, a path for solidarity among readers. Furthermore, the work of translation through which “Ana Min Al-Yahud” went, in several contexts and to so many languages, expands the trope of the dybbuk also to non-Jewish audiences.
Computed Tomography Scan Evidence for Left Atrial Appendage Short‐Term Remodeling Following Percutaneous Occlusion: Impact of Device Oversizing
Authors: Mahmoudi Khalil , Galea Roberto , Elhadad Simon , Temperli Fabrice , Sebag Frederic , Gräni Christoph , Rezine Zhor , Roten Laurent , Landolff Quentin , Brugger Nicolas , Masri Alaa , Räber Lorenz , Amabile Nicolas
Published: August 2023

Background

The interrelationships between left atrial appendage (LAA) dimensions and device following implantation are unknown. We aimed to analyze the impact of Watchman device implantation on LAA dimensions following its percutaneous closure and potential predictors of remodeling.

Methods and Results

All consecutive LAA closure procedures performed at 2 centers between November 2017 and December 2020 were included in the WATCH‐DUAL (Watchman 2.5 Versus Watchman FLX in a Dual‐Center Left Atrial Appendage Closure Cohort) registry. This study included patients who had pre‐ and postintervention computed tomography scan analysis. The LAA and device dimensions were measured in a centralized core lab by 3‐dimensional computed tomography scan reconstruction methods, focusing on the device landing zone. This analysis included 104 patients (age, 76.0 [range, 72.0–83.0] years; 72% men; 53% Watchman FLX; 47% Watchman 2.5). The baseline characteristics were comparable between Watchman 2.5 and Watchman FLX groups, except for the higher use of oversizing in the latter group. The median delay for computed tomography control was 49 (range, 43–64) days. The landing zone area (median, 446 [range, 363–523] versus 290 [222–366] mm
2
;
P
<0.001) and minimal diameter (median, 23.0 [range, 20.7–24.8] versus 16.7 [14.7–19.4] mm;
P
<0.001) significantly increased after implantation. The absolute (median, 157 [range, 98–220] versus 85 [18–148] mm
2
,
P
<0.001) and relative (median, 50% [range, 32%–79%] versus 26% [4%–50%];
P
<0.001) increases in landing zone area were more pronounced in patients with oversized device. Baseline LAA dimensions were smaller, landing zone eccentricity larger, and oversized device more frequent in patients with significant overexpansion compared with the others.

Conclusions

LAA dimensions increased at the site of the Watchman prosthesis after implantation, suggesting a local positive remodeling after the procedure. This phenomenon was more pronounced in the case of oversized devices.
‘Signs and Wonders’ in Acts
Authors: Marx Benjamin
Published: August 2023

In 1987 Leo O’Reilly observed that ‘signs and wonders’ and its function in the overall narrative of Acts is a neglected topic. Only a few scholars have taken up the challenge and contributed to this topic. In this article, the author will strengthen O’Reilly’s arguments and further demonstrate that Luke uses the collocation of signs and wonders to argue for a strong parallel of Jesus and Moses and the ‘prophet to come’. Luke additionally demonstrates the continuity of Jesus’ prophetic ministry through his followers. In Acts the progress of early Christian mission is also associated with signs and wonders. Luke employs a chiasm – created throughout his use of signs and wonders – to argue for the church as the divinely commissioned continuation of salvation history.
Unity of Christology and Pneumatology to Support Justice for Women’s Leadership in the Context of the Church
Authors: Pranoto Minggus Minarto
Published: August 2023

This article aims to emphasize the importance of the unity of the doctrines of Christology and Pneumatology that can be used to support the struggle for justice for women’s leadership in the context of the Church. One-sided or unbalanced emphasis on Christology alone or Pneumatology alone in theology can lead to injustice in the context of women’s leadership in the Church. If the teaching of Christology is dominant, but Pneumatology is a deficit – in relation to ecclesiology – then the concept to be emphasized is the Church was founded solely on the work of Jesus Christ, who was male. On the other hand, a dominant Pneumatology and a Christological deficit will obscure the support for justice for the emergence of female leaders in the Church.
A new record of Hedychium gardnerianum (Zingiberaceae) from southwest China reveals an update to its distribution range
Authors: Hu Xiu , Mou Feng-Juan , Meng Ting-Yao , Li Yi-Guo
Published: August 2023

Hedychium gardnerianum Sheppard ex Ker Gawl. (Zingiberacea) is newly recorded from southwest China, which stretching its eastern natural distribution range. A full description of the species and a color plate showing diagnostic features of the species, as well as taxonomic and distributional notes are provided here.
Adopting the Constructive Vote of No-Confidence
Authors: Lento Tal
Published: August 2023

A constructive vote of no-confidence is more restrictive than a regular vote of no-confidence as it limits the ability of the legislative branch to challenge the government. Belgium and Israel are the only two countries to adopt the constructive vote of no-confidence while being established democracies. This paper focuses on these two highly interesting cases and asks two questions: 1) What were the circumstances and intentions that brought about the adoption of the cvnc in Belgium and in Israel? 2) What were the implications of the adoption of the cvnc on the Belgian and the Israeli political systems? The findings suggest that both Belgium and Israel adopted the cvnc out of a desire to stabilize their governments; however only Belgium has experienced a clear improvement in government stability after its adoption. In Israel the findings are mixed, depending on the measurement used to define government turnover.
A Comprehensive Research Workshop on Artificial Intelligence in Parliaments
Authors: Fitsilis Fotios , von Lucke Jörn , Frank Sander
Published: August 2023

Disruptive technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (ai), currently dominate the debate on the future of societal organisations and structures and this trend has intensified since the emergence of ChatGPT in late 2022. Naturally, such topics are related to the opportunities and challenges that arise when utilising ai-based approaches and cannot be omitted from the discussion about the evolution of parliamentary institutions. This report describes the content and conclusions of a two-day international workshop on artificial intelligence in parliaments that took place from 3–4 July 2023 in Friedrichshafen, Germany.
1. A Brief History of Existential Risk and the People Who Worked to Mitigate It
Authors: Beard SJ , Bronson Rachel
Published: August 2023

This chapter explores the history of Existential Risk Studies through the stories of people who have sought to understand and avert threats like nuclear weapons, environmental breakdown, and disruptive technologies over the last seventy-five years. It offers new perspectives to people working on reducing existential risks today, from politicians to activists or academics, so that we can “turn back the hands of the Doomsday Clock”.
6. Natural Global Catastrophic Risks
Authors: Mani Lara , Erwin Doug , Johnson Lindley
Published: August 2023

To what extent is humanity vulnerable to natural catastrophic risks such as large-magnitude volcanic eruptions and Near-Earth Object impacts? And what does this risk landscape look like? This chapter explores the current state of research on natural catastrophic risks and considers how the latter are often underestimated, although their impact on our complex societies continues to grow.
miR-205-5p Carried by Lipid Nanoparticles Regulates PI3K/AKT Pathway of Treg Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment of Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Down-Regulates PD-L1
Authors: Luo Xiaopeng , Luo Hongcheng , Feng Yanni , Wei Wujun , Wang Ying , Qin Jixin
Published: August 2023

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the main disease type in laryngeal cancer. With the increasing number of patients with laryngeal cancer, the number of patients with LSCC is also increasing. miR-205-5p participates in the development of tumor cells. This study mainly explores
how miR-205-5p carried by lipid nanoparticles regulates Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment of LSCC and affects PI3K/AKT pathway to down-regulate PD-L1. Lipid nanoparticles loaded with miR-205-5p and a rat model was constructed followed by analysis of CD25+ and Treg cells by flow cytometry,
morphology of tumor tissue by HE staining, Treg cells apoptosis and the expression of PI3K, AKT, Nrf2, and PD-L1 by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed and the surface was smooth. The particle size distribution was good. Tumors were formed in the right axilla
of nude mice and the tumor cells were divided into three grades. Lipid nanoparticles loaded with miR-205-5p induced apoptosis of Treg cells. The apoptosis of Treg cells was related to PI3K/AKT signaling, apoptosis was activated, and the level of Nrf2 decreased after treatment with PI3K/AKT
inhibitors. Nrf2 down-regulated the expression of PD-L1 and induced Treg cell apoptosis. miR-205-5p-loaded lipid nanoparticles inhibited the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, activated Nrf2, reduced PD-L1 expression, and promoted the apoptosis of Treg cells. miR-205-5p carried by lipid nanoparticles
can inhibit PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, activate Nrf2, and down-regulate PD-L1, thereby accelerating the apoptosis of Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment of LSCC.
Correlation Analysis of Immune Cell Infiltration in Recurrent Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Wenzhi , Liu Xiaoying , Zheng Lei
Published: August 2023

Numerous studies have established a close relationship between tumor progression, prognosis, and the infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. This study aimed to investigate the differences in infiltrating immune cells between recurrent endometrial cancer and non-recurrent
endometrial cancer. Firstly, gene expression data of endometrial cancer were obtained from the GEO database. Differential gene analysis using Geo2R identified significant gene expression differences, and KEGG and GO analyses were conducted on the qualified differential genes. Subsequently,
CIBERSORT was employed to analyze the infiltration of 22 immune cell types in the tumor microenvironment, identifying differential immune cells. The results revealed significant differences in gene expression between recurrent and non-recurrent endometrial carcinoma. Interestingly, CIBERSORT
analysis demonstrated a significant increase in monocyte infiltration in recurrent endometrial cancer compared to non-recurrent cases. Monocyte infiltration was found to play a crucial role in the progression of endometrial cancer recurrence. These findings provide valuable insights for clinicians
to develop personalized treatment strategies for patients with recurrent endometrial cancer.
Facile Preparation of a Lightweight and Ultra-Thin Nonwoven Carbon Fiber Film with Excellent Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Performance
Authors: Bai Ruicheng , Li Xiaolin , Zhang Leilei , Liu Shaohua , Zhang Pei , Shao Qinsi
Published: August 2023

In this work, a porous, ultra-thin, mechanically strong, and flexible non-woven carbon fiber structured film (NCFF) was fabricated, which exhibited excellent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance. More specifically, a non-woven raw paper precursor was first constructed
by using the wet paper-making method from the short-cut carbon fibers. Afterward, the consecutive procedures of resin impregnation and heat press were applied to obtain NCFF. The morphology, porosity, mechanical properties, and EMI shielding performance of the proposed NCFF were thoroughly
investigated to examine the impact of resin concentration and compression pressure. Furthermore, electroless nickel (Ni) plating was also conducted on the optimized NCFF structure to further improve the EMI shielding performance. From the acquired results, it was demonstrated that the optimal
NCFF with a thickness value of only 95 μm and a tensile strength of 83.98 MPa (X direction)/47.37 MPa (Y direction) was achieved by using the resin concentration of 15 wt% and the compression pressure of 1.5 MPa. Moreover, the proposed film exhibited excellent EMI shielding effectiveness
(EMI-SE) of 40.97 dB, whereas the EMI-SE of the Ni-plated NCFF composite was significantly improved to 79.33 dB. Both films demonstrated also low density in conjunction with excellent electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and EMI shielding performance at a much thinner thickness compared
with the other lightweight electromagnetic shielding materials reported in the literature. As a result, a wide application prospect in aviation, aerospace, telecommunications, and military industries was proved by the proposed material configuration.
Effect of Gamma Radiation on the Properties of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate)/Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposite Films
Authors: El-Badry Basma A.
Published: August 2023

In this study, poly(methyl methacrylate)/titanium dioxide (PMMA/TiO2) nanocomposite films (NFs) were prepared by a solution casting method and afterward irradiated with gamma (γ)-rays at different doses. The structural and optical properties of the PMMA/TiO2NFs before and afterγ-irradiation at different doses were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, respectively. In addition, the impact ofγ-dose on the wetting properties of PMMA/TiO2was determined by measuring the water contact angle. The XRD patterns illustrated new sharp peaks after the incorporation of TiO2nanoparticles (NPs) into the PMMA matrix, which could be due to the interaction of TiO2with PMMA owing to the change in the crystallographic organization. Moreover, the degree of the disorder increases with increasingγ-dose. Optical property studies revealed that the optical gap-band energy of the PMMA/TiO2dropped to 3.92 eV at the highestγ-dose compared with pure PMMA, which was estimated to be 4.5 eV. A remarkable increase in the number of carbon atoms per cluster was observed with increasingγ-dose. The water contact angle was decreased with increasingγ-dose. The decrease in water contact angle is due to the formation of an oxidized layer and/or carbonaceous clusters on the surface of theγ-irradiated nanocomposite films. Therefore, it can be concluded that PMMA/TiO2NFs with controlled optical gap-band energy and controlled water contact angle can be prepared by theγ-irradiation technique to be used for the fabrication of optoelectronic products.
Synthesis and Characterizations of TiO2/Carbon Nanofibers Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Battery Applications
Authors: Wang Lili , Wu Mengge , Liu Ye , Han Qiang , Fouad Hassan , Yang Hui
Published: August 2023

The integration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with carbon fibers leads to the formation of a stable structure and a synergistic effect, resulting in improved conductivity and electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries. Various techniques such as the hydrothermal
method, ultrasonic mixing method, and electrospinning technology are used to achieve uniform distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles within the high-conductivity carbon fiber matrix, thereby preventing agglomeration and electrolyte corrosion. The resulting material serves as a high-performance
negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries. Compared with the TiO2/CNFs composite (U-TiO2/CNFs) prepared by directly mixing TiO2 nanoparticles into the spinning solution through ultrasonic treatment, the TiO2/CNFs composite (H–TiO2/CNFs)
prepared by hydrolyzing tetrabutyl titanate (TBT) has more uniform distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles, so it shows more excellent electrochemical performance. The initial discharge specific capacity at 0.1 C is 231 mAh· g−1, and after 300 cycles at 0.2 C,
there is still 204 mAh· g−1 reversible capacity, the coulombic efficiency can reach 99%.
Damage Time-Dependent Characteristics and Failure Mechanism of Limestone with Different Mineral Compositions Under Acid Hydro-Chemical Solution Erosion
Authors: Yan Yongyan , Ding Wuxiu , Liu Guoji , Wang Hongyi , Ma Tao
Published: August 2023

Taking two types of limestone with different mineral compositions as research objects, we conducted experiments on the mass, longitudinal wave velocity, ion concentration of solution, fracture morphology, and micromorphology of two types of limestone specimens eroded by acidic hydro-chemical
solution. We investigated specimens’ damage time-dependent physical properties, dissolution, structure, discussing mineral composition effects and destruction. Results show that the mass loss rate of two types of limestone specimens eroded by acidic hydro-chemical solution increases
with the increase of immersion time in a power function, and the longitudinal wave velocity decreases and then fluctuates in a small range. The specimen fracture degree increases with the increase of the immersion time, and the rock micro-structure changes from dense and uniform into loose
and porous. The mass, the longitudinal wave velocity, the fracturing morphology, and damage to microscopic morphology of specimens increase with the increase of solution ion concentration. The acid rock reaction rate of limestone A is lower than that of limestone B, while the hydrolysis reaction
rate is higher. The mass loss rate, the longitudinal wave velocity loss rate, the ion concentration, and the damage degree of the macro-and micro-structure of limestone A are higher than that of limestone B.
Effect of Calcination Temperature on Surface Acidity and Photocatalytic Activity of Nano-TiO2/Diatomite Composite Photocatalyst
Authors: Zhang Jinjun , Liu Ruirui , Kuang Meng , Wang Jing , Ji Zhijiang
Published: August 2023

Nano-TiO2/diatomite composite photocatalysts were prepared by hydrolysis-deposition method in the present study. The effect of calcination temperature on surface acidity and photocatalytic activity of the photocatalysts was characterized by X-ray diffraction, N2
adsorption/desorption, Fransmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, pyridine adsorption in situ fourier transform infrared and the adsorption and photodegradation of formaldehyde in air. Results revealed that the high temperature and
the nucleation of titanium dioxide both can consume the surface Brönsted acid sites, and with the formation of Ti–O–Si bond to form surface Lewis acid. The composite calcined at 600 °C presents the highest decomposition of formaldehyde under UV irradiation at the room
temperature.
Diurnally Forced Tropical Gravity Waves under Varying Stability
Authors: Short Ewan , Lane Todd P. , Bishop Craig H. , Wheeler Matthew C.
Published: August 2023

Diurnal processes play a primary role in tropical weather. A leading hypothesis is that atmospheric gravity waves diurnally forced near coastlines propagate both offshore and inland, encouraging convection as they do so. In this study we extend the linear analytic theory of diurnally forced gravity waves, allowing for discontinuities in stability and for linear changes in stability over a finite-depth “transition layer.” As an illustrative example, we first consider the response to a commonly studied heating function emulating diurnally oscillating coastal temperature gradients, with a low-level stability change between the boundary layer and troposphere. Gravity wave rays resembling the upper branches of “Saint Andrew’s cross” are forced along the coastline at the surface, with the stability changes inducing reflection, refraction, and ducting of the individual waves comprising the rays, with analogous behavior evident in the rays themselves. Refraction occurs smoothly in the transition-layer solution, with substantially less reflection than in the discontinuous solution. Second, we consider a new heating function which emulates an upper-level convective heating diurnal cycle, and consider stability changes associated with the tropical tropopause. Reflection, refraction, and ducting again occur, with the lower branches of Saint Andrew’s cross now evident. We compare these solutions to observations taken during the Years of the Maritime Continent field campaign, noting better qualitative agreement with the transition-layer solution than the discontinuous solution, suggesting the tropopause is an even weaker gravity wave reflector than previously thought.

Significance Statement

This study extends our theoretical understanding of how forced atmospheric gravity waves change with atmospheric structure. Gravity wave behavior depends on atmospheric stability: how much the atmosphere resists vertical displacements of air. Where stability changes, waves reflect and refract, analogously to when light passes from water to air. Our study presents new mathematical tools for understanding this reflection and refraction, demonstrating reflection is substantially weaker when stability increases over “transition layers,” than when stability increases suddenly. Our results suggest the tropical tropopause reflects less gravity wave energy than previously thought, with potential design implications for weather and climate models, to be assessed in future work.
The Impact of Extreme Precipitation Events and Their Variability on Climate Change Beliefs in the American Public
Authors: Alexander Sarah , Calice Mikhaila N. , Scheufele Dietram , Brossard Dominique , Krause Nicole , Wright Daniel B. , Block Paul
Published: August 2023

Although scientists agree that climate change is anthropogenic, differing interpretations of evidence in a highly polarized sociopolitical environment impact how individuals perceive climate change. While prior work suggests that individuals experience climate change through local conditions, there is a lack of consensus on how personal experience with extreme precipitation may alter public opinion on climate change. We combine high-resolution precipitation data at the zip-code level with nationally representative public opinion survey results (n = 4008) that examine beliefs in climate change and the perceived cause. Our findings support relationships between well-established value systems (i.e., partisanship, religion) and socioeconomic status with individual opinions of climate change, showing that these values are influential in opinion formation on climate issues. We also show that experiencing characteristics of atypical precipitation (e.g., more variability than normal, increasing or decreasing trends, or highly recurring extreme events) in a local area are associated with increased belief in anthropogenic climate change. This suggests that individuals in communities that experience greater atypical precipitation may be more accepting of messaging and policy strategies directly aimed at addressing climate change challenges. Thus, communication strategies that leverage individual perception of atypical precipitation at the local level may help tap into certain “experiential” processing methods, making climate change feel less distant. These strategies may help reduce polarization and motivate mitigation and adaptation actions.

Significance Statement

Public acceptance for anthropogenic climate change is hindered by how related issues are presented, diverse value systems, and information-processing biases. Personal experiences with extreme weather may act as a salient cue that impacts individuals’ perceptions of climate change. We couple a large, nationally representative public opinion dataset with station precipitation data at the zip-code level in the United States. Results are nuanced but suggest that anomalous and variable precipitation in a local area may be interpreted as evidence for anthropogenic climate change. So, relating atypical local precipitation conditions to climate change may help tap into individuals’ experiential processing, sidestep polarization, and tailor communications at the local level.
The role of antifreeze genes in the tolerance of cold stress in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: El-Sayed Abdel-Fattah M. , Khaled Asmaa A. , Hamdan Amira M. , Makled Sara O. , Hafez Elsayed E. , Saleh Ahmed A.
Published: August 2023

Background

Tilapia is one of the most essential farmed fishes in the world. It is a tropical and subtropical freshwater fish well adapted to warm water but sensitive to cold weather. Extreme cold weather could cause severe stress and mass mortalities in tilapia. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of cold stress on the up-regulation of antifreeze protein (AFP) genes in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Two treatment groups of fish were investigated (5 replicates of 15 fish for each group in fibreglass tanks/70 L each): 1) a control group; the fish were acclimated to lab conditions for two weeks and the water temperature was maintained at 25 °C during the whole experimental period with feeding on a commercial diet (30% crude protein). 2) Cold stress group; the same conditions as the control group except for the temperature. Initially, the temperature was decreased by one degree every 12 h. The fish started showing death symptoms when the water temperature reached 6–8 °C. In this stage the tissue (muscle) samples were taken from both groups. The immune response of fish exposed to cold stress was detected and characterized using Differential Display-PCR (DD-PCR).

Results

The results indicated that nine different up-regulation genes were detected in the cold-stressed fish compared to the control group. These genes are Integrin-alpha-2 (ITGA-2), Gap junction gamma-1 protein-like (GJC1), WD repeat-containing protein 59 isoform X2 (WDRP59), NUAK family SNF1-like kinase, G-protein coupled receptor-176 (GPR-176), Actin cytoskeleton-regulatory complex protein pan1-like (PAN-1), Whirlin protein (WHRN), Suppressor of tumorigenicity 7 protein isoform X2 (ST7P) and ATP-binding cassette sub-family A member 1-like isoform X2 (ABCA1). The antifreeze gene type-II amplification using a specific PCR product of 600 bp, followed by cloning and sequencing analysis revealed that the identified gene is antifreeze type-II, with similarity ranging from 70 to 95%. The in-vitro transcribed gene induced an antifreeze protein with a molecular size of 22 kDa. The antifreeze gene, ITGA-2 and the WD repeat protein belong to the lectin family (sugar–protein).

Conclusions

In conclusion, under cold stress, Nile tilapia express many defence genes, an antifreeze gene consisting of one open reading frame of approximately 0.6 kbp.
Successful palliative resection of giant epimyocardial lymphatic malformation with 14 years of follow-up: a case report
Authors: Heliö Krista , Weckström Sini , Kivistö Sari , Lohi Jouko , Heliö Tiina
Published: August 2023

Background

Primary tumors of the heart are a rare phenomenon. Lymphatic malformations are congenital anomalies of the lymphatic system that tend to grow progressively. Lymphatic malformations are typically found in the cervical and axillary regions and found on pediatric patients. We report a 40-year-old woman with giant epimyocardial lymphatic malformation.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old woman was assessed due to suspected traumatic cardiac tamponade. Computed tomography of the heart and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were compatible with either a large pericardial hemangioma or angiosarcoma. The tumor infiltrated deeply into the myocardium and could only be partially resected. Histopathological diagnosis was a cardiac lymphatic malformation with micro- and macrocystic components. The patient has remained asymptomatic for fourteen years after the surgery. In the latest follow-up, her left ventricular function had remained normal and the maximum thickness of the residual tumor had regressed.

Conclusions

Even when a complete removal of a cardiac lymphatic malformation is not possible, a debulking procedure can yield a good long-term result.
Intradialytic neuromuscular electrical stimulation with optional virtual reality distraction improves not only muscle strength and functional capacity but also serum albumin level in haemodialysis patients: a pilot randomized clinical trial
Authors: Schinner Lena , Nagels Klaus , Scherf Julia , Schmaderer Christoph , Heemann Uwe , Küchle Claudius , Hannemann Liya
Published: August 2023

Background

Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in haemodialysis (HD) patients and linked to a poor prognosis regarding comorbidities and premature mortality. Previous studies assessed the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation in haemodialysis patients. This study adds to the relevance of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) applications combined with a virtual reality (VR) distraction to increase intensity, dosage, and efficiency of NMES and slow sarcopenia progression in HD patients.

Methods

We conducted a 12-week multicenter prospective randomised controlled trial. The patients were randomly assigned to one of the three groups: neuromuscular electrical stimulation with or without combined virtual reality distraction or control group.

Results

The final analysis included 32 haemodialysis patients (mean age of 68 ± 10 years, 26 men). Interaction effects between groups and time (12 weeks) were significant regarding serum albumin levels (p = 0.008) and left quadriceps femoris muscle (QFM) force (p = 0.026). Both endpoints were increased in the NMES compared to the CO group at the end of the intervention. The NMES group increased serum albumin levels significantly after 12 weeks. The main effect of time was an increase in mean right QFM force between beginning and end of the intervention (p = 0.021). Functional capacity improved after 12 weeks in the NMES and NMES + VR but not in the control group, with a significant difference between the three groups (p = 0.022). Weight and body mass index increased in the NMES and NMES + VR groups, albeit not significantly. The effects of VR distraction on NMES efficiency were inconclusive.

Conclusion

Intradialytic NMES increases serum albumin level, functional capacity, muscle strength in lower limb and in tendency weight and body mass index of HD patients. Effects on VR distraction are inconclusive. Large-scaled follow-up studies on integrated sports programs with NMES and active training in combination with VR as distraction and motivation accelerator are needed.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register: DRKS00029276 (Retrospectively registered: 30/06/2022).
Aortic valve Replacement compared to Transcatheter Implant and its relationship with COgnitive Impairment (ARTICO) evaluated with neuropsychological and advanced neuroimaging: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Gomis Meritxell , Fernández Claudio , Dacosta-Aguayo Rosalia , Carrillo Xavi , Martínez Silvia , Guijosa Christian Muñoz , Berastegui Elisabet , Valentín Antonio García , Puig Josep , Bernal Eva , Ramos Anna , Cáceres Cynthia
Published: August 2023

Background

Aortic stenosis is the most common valvulopathy in Western countries. The treatment of choice had been surgery aortic valve replacement (SAVR), but the improvement in endovascular approaches as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), initially reserved for patients with very high surgical risk, has been extended to high and intermediate, and recently also to low-risk patients. Stroke and vascular cognitive impairment are the most important complications. It is not entirely clear which technique is best to avoid these complications as well as their impact. Our goal is to evaluate changes in cognitive performance in the early (1-month) and late (1-year) postoperative period in patients undergoing SAVR or TAVI, by extensive neuropsychological study (NRP) and advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Specifically, to compare early and late cognitive changes after the intervention between both groups, the occurrence of stroke during follow-up and to compare the appearance of silent vascular lesions and changes in brain activity and functional connectivity with functional MRI during follow-up between both groups.

Methods/design

Prospective longitudinal cohort study. A non-selected representative sample of 80 subjects, 40 SAVR and 40 TAVI to obtain a final sample of 36 eligible subjects in each group, ranging from 70 to 85 years old, with indication for aortic replacement and intermediate or high surgical risk will be studied. At baseline, within one month before the treatment, all individuals will undergo an extensive NRP and advanced MRI study. These studies will also be performed 1-month and 1-year after treatment, to assess the appearance of new vascular lesions, as well as changes in cognitive performance with respect to baseline.

Discussion

This study aims to evaluate changes in cognitive performance as well as both clinical and silent vascular events occurring in the early (1-month) and late (1-year) periods after SAVR and TAVI. We will also analyze the correlation between neuropsychological and neuroimaging approaches in order to evaluate cognition. Therefore, it may provide high-quality data of cognitive changes and vascular events for both techniques, and be useful to tailor interventions to individual characteristics and ultimately aiding in decision-making.

Trial registration

This study is register in Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05235529) on 11th February 2022.
Predictive value of prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in recurrent or unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma received anti-PD1 therapy
Authors: Kang Xindan , Wang Jing , Kang Xue , Bai Li
Published: August 2023

Background

Clinical trials have shown that anti-PD1 therapy, either as a monotherapy or in combination, is effective and well-tolerated in patients with recurrent or unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to investigate the prognostic value of immune-nutritional biomarkers in measuring the effects of anti-PD1 therapy in these patients.

Methods

We enrolled and followed up with 85 patients diagnosed with advanced HCC who underwent anti-PD1 therapy at the First Medical Centre of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital between January 2016 and January 2021. The retrospective analysis aimed to determine whether immune-nutritional biomarkers could serve as promising prognostic indices in these patients.

Results

In this retrospective study, patients in the PNI-high group showed a better progression-free survival (PFS) compared to those in the PNI-low group (9.5 months vs. 4.2 months, P = 0.039). Similarly, the median overall survival (OS) was longer in the PNI-high group (23.9 months, 95%CI 17.45–30.35) than in the PNI-low group (11.7 months, 95%CI 9.27–14.13) (P = 0.002). These results were consistent with sub-analyses of the anti-PD1 therapy. Furthermore, both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that a higher pre-treatment PNI ( > = 44.91) was a significant predictive factor for favorable outcomes in this patient cohort (HR = 0.411, P = 0.023).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that pre-treatment PNI is a critical predictive factor in patients with recurrent or unresectable HCC undergoing anti-PD1 therapy.
Association of meat consumption with the risk of gastrointestinal cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Di Yan , Ding Lei , Gao Luying , Huang Hongyan
Published: August 2023

Background

The association between gastrointestinal cancer and types of meat consumption, including red meat, processed meat, or a combination of both, remains disputable. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies to estimate the association between meat consumption and gastrointestinal cancer risk.

Methods

PubMed, EmBase, and the Cochrane library databases were searched systematically for eligible studies that investigated the relation between meat consumption and the risk of developing gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal cancer (EC), gastric cancer (GC), colorectal cancer (CRC), colon cancer (CC), rectal cancer (RC), pancreatic cancer (PC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) throughout February, 2023. The pooled relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was assigned as an effect estimate and calculated using a random-effects model with inverse variance weighting.

Results

Forty cohorts comprising 3,780,590 individuals were selected for the final quantitative analysis. The summary results indicated that a higher red meat consumption was associated with an increased risk of CRC (RR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.02–1.16; P = 0.007) and CC (RR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.03–1.25; P = 0.011). Moreover, a higher processed meat consumption was associated with an increased risk of CRC (RR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.13–1.26; P < 0.001), CC (RR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.13–1.26; P < 0.001), and RC (RR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.08–1.42; P = 0.002). Furthermore, a higher total consumption of red and processed meat was associated with an increased risk of CRC (RR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.06–1.20; P < 0.001), CC (RR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.04–1.33; P = 0.012), and RC (RR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.04–1.39; P = 0.016). Finally, the strength of higher consumption of total red and processed meat with the risk of GC, and higher consumption of red meat with the risk of RC in subgroup of high adjusted level was lower than subgroup of moderate adjusted level, while the strength of higher consumption of processed meat with the risk of RC and HCC in subgroup of follow-up ≥ 10.0 years was higher than subgroup of follow-up < 10.0 years.

Conclusions

This study found that meat consumption was associated with an increased risk of CRC, CC, and RC, and dietary intervention could be considered an effective strategy in preventing CRC.
TP53 mutation prevalence in normal airway epithelium as a biomarker for lung cancer risk
Authors: Craig Daniel J. , Crawford Erin L. , Chen Heidi , Grogan Eric L. , Deppen Steven A. , Morrison Thomas , Antic Sanja L. , Massion Pierre P. , Willey James C.
Published: August 2023

Background

There is a need for biomarkers that improve accuracy compared with current demographic risk indices to detect individuals at the highest lung cancer risk. Improved risk determination will enable more effective lung cancer screening and better stratification of lung nodules into high or low-risk category. We previously reported discovery of a biomarker for lung cancer risk characterized by increased prevalence of TP53 somatic mutations in airway epithelial cells (AEC). Here we present results from a validation study in an independent retrospective case–control cohort.

Methods

Targeted next generation sequencing was used to identify mutations within three TP53 exons spanning 193 base pairs in AEC genomic DNA.

Results

TP53 mutation prevalence was associated with cancer status (P < 0.001). The lung cancer detection receiver operator characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) for the TP53 biomarker was 0.845 (95% confidence limits 0.749–0.942). In contrast, TP53 mutation prevalence was not significantly associated with age or smoking pack-years. The combination of TP53 mutation prevalence with PLCOM2012 risk score had an ROC AUC of 0.916 (0.846–0.986) and this was significantly higher than that for either factor alone (P < 0.03).

Conclusions

These results support the validity of the TP53 mutation prevalence biomarker and justify taking additional steps to assess this biomarker in AEC specimens from a prospective cohort and in matched nasal brushing specimens as a potential non-invasive surrogate specimen.
The effect of zinc supplementation on anthropometric measurements in healthy children over two years: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Monfared Vahid , Salehian Adel , Nikniaz Zeinab , Ebrahimpour-Koujan Soraiya , Faghfoori Zeinab
Published: August 2023

Background

Zinc deficiency is one of the most important micronutrient deficiencies in children that can affect the children’s growth pattern. In this regard, different studies were conducted to assess the effect of zinc supplementation on growth patterns in healthy children. To the best of our knowledge, no systematic review has summarized the results of these studies. So, in the present study, we systematically reviewed the result of the studies that assessed the effect of zinc supplementation on anthropometric parameters in healthy, over 2-year-old children.

Methods

A systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to November 2021. Data were pooled using the random-effects method and were expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

The pooled results of eight studies, including 1586 participants, showed that zinc supplementation significantly increases height [(WMD): 0.9, 95% CI: (0.27, 1.52), p < 0.001], weight [(WMD): 0.51, 95% CI: (0.06, 0.97), p < 0.001], height for age (HAZ) [(WMD): 0.07, 95% CI: (0.03, 0.10), p < 0.001]. Also, meta-regression analysis did not reveal any significant association between dose and duration of intervention and anthropometric parameters.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates the beneficial effects of zinc supplementation on weight, height, and HAZ.
Evaluating the influence of static management on individuals’ oral health
Authors: Huang Tu , Li Juan , Wang Zihao
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of static management on individuals’ oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) according to the dynamic zero-COVID policy in China.

Methods

The digital questionnaire conducted with three sub-questionnaires was sent to 700 patients who accepted treatment at the Department of Stomatology, 363 Hospital. Data on demographic characteristics, the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 and willingness to invest in oral health were collected from the 658 completed questionnaires. According to the state of individuals’ lives, participants were divided into two groups: a static management group (Group 1) and a nonstatic management group (Group 2). The scores of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 and willingness to invest in oral health were compared between these two groups using IBM SPSS Statistics.

Results

The results showed that individuals undergoing static management reported better OHRQoL. Meanwhile, they also presented lower willingness to invest money and dental visits in oral health. Furthermore, according to the results of the logistic regression analysis, aging acts as a negative correlation factor for the OHRQoL of people undergoing static management, while the willingness to invest money and dental visits in oral health is defined as a positive predictor for OHRQoL.

Conclusion

Static management effects the OHRQoL of individuals. Aging and WTIOH in money and dental visits are related the individuals’ OHRQoL during static management.