bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon accounting
Authors: Briš Martina , Mijoč Ivo , Drvenkar Nataša
Published: June 2024

The aim of this paper is to present the current state of scientific research in the field ofenvironmental accounting, especially with regard to carbon accounting. To this end, a bibliometricsurvey of 1,035 WoS-indexed publications was conducted, which included specificorganizational and technical activities using the Mendeley Reference Manager and the specializedsoftware VOSviewer. The survey revealed the main contributors to this field accordingto the criteria of the most productive author, the leading journal, the most cited article,the keywords used in the researched articles, as well as the frequency of their appearanceand the geographical locations where the research is focused, highlighting the leading countryin the field of carbon accounting. In addition, the analysis identified 9 clusters in two segmentsfrom the field of economics, and the results show that the topic of carbon accounting isunderrepresented in academic papers and research studies worldwide. Nevertheless, somepublishers, researchers and universities have taken a leadership position from the outset bypositioning themselves as pioneers of zero tolerance for carbon emissions. This may be thefirst bibliometric analysis and systematic review of carbon accounting in scientific papersin the context of Croatian research. The theoretical achievements of the paper open newavenues for other researchers in the studied field. The current scientific insights could bedeepened by further expanding the original assumptions and incorporating searches in theSCOPUS database and other indexed scientific publications in various world languages.
Research on financing decision-making practices in Croatian companies
Authors: Pecina Ena
Published: June 2024

The aim of this paper is to identify the main practices of Croatian companies in financing decision-making. Following the best-known field study by Graham & Harvey (2001), this paperpresents the main findings on capital structure decisions of Croatian companies. Primarydata collected using a highly structured survey questionnaire through an extensive one-timecross-sectional survey conducted in 2018, was analysed primarily by descriptive analysis, afterwhich a univariate analysis on the responses conditional on the selected companies’ characteristicswas performed. According to the survey responses, practitioners report the perception ofcreditworthiness, financial flexibility and financial independence as the most important factorswhen deciding on debt financing. However, the importance of these factors is not driven by theinformation asymmetry problem, as the pecking order theory assumes. Furthermore, there is alsoa moderate support for the trade-off theory in terms of medium high proportion of companiesthat target their debt ratios. Yet, it should be emphasized that in the process of debt financingpractitioners are concerned about the arising risks, but not the benefits of debt financing, andthus show risk-averse behaviour. As the results of empirical research deviate from the theoreticalassumptions, both in this study and in similar studies conducted in the USA and Europe, it raisesthe questions about applicability of the existing theories and the need for their revision.
FENOMENA MEMBUKA AIB SUAMI DI SOSMED DALAM PERSPEKTIF HADIS
Authors: Zahro Fatimatuz , Nasrulloh  , Fauzi Ahmad Nur
Published: June 2024

Social media is currently a means of expressing oneself, many people pour their hearts out on social media. However, there are some people who abuse social media. One of them is the wives whose intention is to confide but end up spreading their husband's disgrace on social media. The purpose of writing this article is whether a wife who spreads her husband's disgrace is nusyuz and then reviewed using a hadith perspective. The method in this research is descriptive qualitative by examining what the law is if a wife commits nusyuz. The nusyuz referred to in this research is a wife who spreads her husband's disgrace on social media. The results of this research are that if the disgrace that is spread is true then the solution is communication between the two without having to vent on social media. Introspecting each other, the husband advises the wife not to spread disgrace and the wife advises not to repeat her mistakes for the sake of household harmony. Meanwhile, if the spread of disgrace is not true then it is slander. And the wife is included in the nusyuz category, the nusyuz hadith in this study explains what punishments can be given if the wife is nusyuz, namely being given advice, separating the bed or not having sex with her or finally being beaten but not harming the wife.
Collective Memory and Democratic Mobilization: Insights from Chile's Constitutional Revolution (2019-2023)
Authors: Martins Armando
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the lasting impact of historical-political tragedies on current political behavior, focusing on Chile’s Estallido Social protests (2019- 2020) and the Constituent Plebiscite (2020-2023). Using social media data to analyze political memory, the study suggests that protests serve as a strategic engagement tool in municipalities with vivid recollections of past violence from the Pinochet dictatorship. Least squares analyses show that municipalities with pre-1970 military bases had heightened protest activity but reduced constitutional voting involvement, without a clear political coalition bias. The 2SLS estimations link this to the long-term effects of political victimization during Pinochet’s regime and social media remembrance of the 1973 coup violence. The evidence suggests that while collective memories of political violence may encourage active protest participation, they can also weaken the relationship between voters and political elites, influencing voting behavior
LMDI decomposition and macroeconomic drivers of electricity intensity in Madagascar
Authors: Ramaharo Franck
Published: June 2024

This study employs the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) decomposition method to analyze the drivers of overall electricity intensity in Madagascar over the period 2007-2022. The decomposition results reveal that the residential sector is the primary driver of overall electricity intensity, followed by the service and industry sectors. Notably, the industry sector has contributed to a decrease in intensity. Furthermore, the results indicate that the intensity effect has had a significant impact on increasing overall electricity intensity, whereas the structure effect has played a role in reducing total intensity. Building on these findings, we investigate the impact of key macroeconomic factors on the observed electricity intensity trend using the Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach with quarterly data over the same study period. The ARDL cointegrating approach estimation results reveal a long-run association between financial development, foreign direct investment, industry development, consumer energy inflation, and trade openness. Moreover, the long-run coefficients indicate that financial development and trade openness have a positive and significant impact on electricity intensity in Madagascar, while foreign direct investment, industry development, and consumer energy inflation have a negative and significant impact, suggesting that these factors contribute to electricity efficiency. The Toda-Yamamoto non-causality approach uncovers unidirectional causal relationships, specifically from financial development, industrial development, and consumer energy inflation to electricity intensity, as well as from electricity intensity to foreign direct investment. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in Madagascar's energy sector, highlighting the importance of promoting energy efficiency initiatives.
Primary Gingival Tuberculosis: A Rare Case report
Authors: Dhokar Amol , Shaikh Taiba , Shah Prasanna , Godge Pournima , Bhatnagar Sunanda
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis is the most common cause of chronic granulomatous inflammation in India. Tuberculosis of the oral cavity is usually secondary to the primary foci of tuberculosis present anywhere else in the body. Primary isolated gingival tuberculosis is extremely rare. We present a case of a 20-year-old Indian female patient manifested with symptoms of gingivitis. The diagnosis was reached through positive histopathological features and was confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction. There was no evidence showing the presence of tuberculosis elsewhere in the body. This case report accentuates the need to include tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis of gingival enlargement and also emphasizes the role of the dentist in the early diagnosis of such a rare entity.

Key Words
Gingiva, Chronic granulomatous inflammation, Polymerase chain reaction,
Primary tuberculosis,
PIEZOSURGERY:A Recent Advancement in Dentistry
Authors: Gupta Aayushee , Sharma Shikha , Sheokand Vidushi , Bhardwaj Amit
Published: June 2024

Dentistry, an art and science and tranquilizer in medicine, has seen a lot of changing concepts over a decade and one such novel innovation is piezosurgery which fulfils both biological and technical criteria. It can be used for wide range of treatment, from simple implantology to sophisticated reconstructive surgeries. Low frequency piezosurgery produces a bloodless operating field by enabling safe and accurate bony incision without endangering underlying important structures including nerves, mucosa, and arteries. Soft tissues are protected, and biological mechanisms that encourage bone regeneration and improve patient recovery include the release of certain cytokines. This review outweighs piezosurgery over traditional tools and emphasizes on its clinical and biological aspects contributing to beneficial dental health.

Keywords: Biological Dental Health, Piezosurgery, Regeneration, Ultrasonics
Nanozymes in dentistry: A Breakthrough in Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Sri Maru Bhavya , K. Gayathri , Ravishankar P. L. , R. Sindhujaa , Naidu Vemuri Sai Mavya
Published: June 2024

Nanozymes have gained significant attention in numerous therapeutic applications as a class of nanomaterials with high substrate selectivity, catalytic efficiency, and recovery efficiency. Recently many nanozyme-assisted techniques for various disease control have been extensively developed, utilizing their excellent stability, low cost, and natural enzyme-like properties. Periodontal infection, are one of the most common oral illnesses, presents a worldwide risk to human well-being and existing therapy choices are not sufficient to deal with many clinical issues. Nanozymes, due to their remarkable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity, can be regularly used in detection and therapy for several periodontal diseases. This review evaluates current developments in the field of nanozyme research, summarises it, and suggests potential paths for future periodontal disease treatment approaches.

Key Words: Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Biofilm, Microorganisms, Nanozymes, Periodontal disease, Reactive oxygen species
Cone Beam Computed Tomography - An Inevitable Diagnostic Aid in Dentistry
Authors: P. Aleena Joshy , George Benley , Soman Rino Roopak
Published: June 2024

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has emerged as a pivotal imaging modality across various disciplines, providing three-dimensional visualisation with significant applications in dentistry, medical diagnostics, and industrial fields. This article presents a comprehensive overview of key aspects in CBCT imaging, encompassing the critical topics of Field of View (FOV), Resolution, Dose Considerations, and Artefacts. The Field of View (FOV) is a fundamental parameter influencing the scope and application of CBCT. This article explores the impact of different FOV settings on image acquisition, highlighting considerations for selecting an optimal FOV based on the specific diagnostic requirements of diverse clinical scenarios. Resolution plays a pivotal role in defining the clarity and precision of CBCT images. The article delves into the nuances of spatial and contrast resolution in CBCT, addressing the technological advancements and challenges associated with achieving high-resolution imaging while minimizing radiation exposure. Dose considerations are paramount in any medical imaging technique, and CBCT is no exception. This article provides an analysis of radiation dose management strategies in CBCT, emphasizing the importance of balancing diagnostic efficacy with patient safety. It explores dose optimization techniques, dose monitoring, and advancements in technology aimed at minimizing radiation exposure. Artefacts are inherent challenges in CBCT imaging that can compromise diagnostic accuracy. Understanding artefacts is crucial for practitioners to enhance the reliability and interpretability of CBCT images.

Key Words: CBCT, Cone Beam Computed Tomography, 3-D imaging, Diagnostic imaging, Radiation dose.
Comparison of Two Different Techniques to Achieve Gingival Depigmentation: A Case
Series With 6-months Follow-up
Authors: R. Poornima
Published: June 2024

Background: Melanin pigmentation of the gingiva produces an unpleasant and unesthetic appearance to an individual especially if they have excessive gingival display. The present study aims to compare the two different depigmentation techniques to achieve gingival depigmentation.

Materials and methods: A total number of 10 patients with 56 sites for depigmentation were recruited for the study. The patients were equally divided into groups, i.e., group I scalpel treatment and group II laser treatment. The gingival pigmentation was analysed using Dummett’s Oral Pigmentation score before and after the treatment. Additionally, the clinical parameters such as gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PI) were assessed. The above-mentioned parameters were assessed at the baseline, 3-months and 6-months post-operative period. Also, to evaluate the post-operative discomfort, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was also employed.

Result: In both groups, a statistically significant difference in pigmentation score was observed. Furthermore, group II displayed a lower VAS score and a decrease in post-operative pain, including bleeding, redness, and burning. Following both operations, no discernible changes in pigmentation were observed between the three and six-month follow-up.

Conclusion: Both, the scalpel and laser depigmentation techniques offer better clinical outcomes in terms of reduction in pigmentation. Laser technique offers improved post-operative comfort for the patients.

Keywords: Depigmentation, Diode Laser, Melanin pigments, Scalpel
A Practical Suggestion on using Insulin Syringe BD for Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block in Children
Authors: SR. Naga Sai , K. Prathiba , V. Archana , Sandeep Valasingam , Reddy Praveenkanth
Published: June 2024

Inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) is the most common nerve block used in dentistry to perform various procedure’s like endodontics and extraction in the mandibular teeth. Paediatric dental patients have an inherent fear of needle phobia which has to be dealt, for successful treatment and behaviour management. IANB block has many disadvantages like being technique sensitive, painful and has high failure rate. In paediatric dental patients infiltration anaesthesia technique is an alternative that should be as effective as IANB block with minimal discomfort but lacks success in elder age groups due to anatomical considerations. The present clinical guideline helps the clinician understand the success of infiltration anesthesia in different age group children so that it can be practiced in day to pediatric dentistry.

Key Words: Anesthesia, Children, Insuline syringe
Physical exercise habits of Undergraduate Students in a Teaching Dental Institution in Guntur
Authors: Amrutha Bijjam , Simha B. Vikram , Srilekha Bhimana , Anisha Bhimireddy , Naidu Bandaru Pydiah
Published: June 2024

Introduction
To assess the physical exercise habits of undergraduate dental students in a teaching institution in Guntur.

Material and Methods
A cross-sectional semi-structured questionnaire-based survey was carried out among under graduates of the dental institution in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. Descriptive statistics were computed.

Results
26.4% of the participants go for walking whereas 12% of them practice workouts and 0.5% of them go for swimming.11% of the participants were interested in doing meditation does not exercise whereas 9.5% of them are too tired with daily schedule and 5.9% of them does not have time to practice physical activity. Majority of the first and final year students does not practice physical activity, whereas 2nd and 3rd year BDS students and interns practice physical activity.

Conclusion
The study concluded that about 46.5% of students are not performing any kind of physical exercises. This investigation gives knowledge into the level of importance among students regarding physical activity.

Key Words
Dental students, Physical activity, BMI (Body Mass Index).
Awareness and perceptions of artificial intelligence in dentistry: A cross-sectional survey among Indian dental professionals
Authors: Benakatti Veena , Lagali-Jirge Vasanti
Published: June 2024

Introduction
Artificial intelligence (AI) is inevitably going to impact healthcare including dentistry and will become an essential tool in medical diagnosis and decision-making. Dental professionals must be familiar with growing trends in dentistry such as AI and its future scope. Despite the positive developments in AI research, there are divergent perspectives on its benefits and risks among stakeholders. We intended to understand the knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of dental professionals towards AI and its applications in dentistry.

Methods and Material
A semi-structured, 25-item Google form questionnaire consisting of closed and open-ended questions was made and the link to answer the survey was circulated among postgraduate students, dental academicians, and practitioners across India in an online mode, and the responses were collected and analyzed.

Results
83.3% of participants were aware of AI and its applications. Most of the participants understood the attributes, advantages, and disadvantages of AI. Interestingly 72% of participants agreed that they have witnessed AI being used in clinical practice and 92.7% agreed to use AI for diagnosis. 65.3% expressed concern over unemployment due to AI and 85% agreed that AI has ethical issues. Over 85% of participants agreed AI should be a part of the postgraduate dental curriculum.

Conclusions
We found that dental professionals are updated with AI technology and showed a willingness to adopt AI into dental practice. The participants lacked a deeper understanding of AI and concerned about the potential risk of unemployment resulting from AI and trusting AI alone in dental diagnosis.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Cross-sectional survey, Dentist, Knowledge, Perceptions.
Conductive extracellular matrix derived/chitosan methacrylate/ graphene oxide-pegylated hybrid hydrogel for cell expansion
Authors: Jaramillo Valentina , Arévalo Daniel Felipe , González-Hernández Martin , Cortés María T. , Perdomo-Arciniegas Ana María , Cruz Juan C. , Muñoz-Camargo Carolina
Published: June 2024

Electrical stimulation has emerged as a cornerstone technique in the rapidly evolving field of biomedical engineering, particularly within the realms of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It facilitates cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby advancing the development of accurate tissue models and enhancing drug-testing methodologies. Conductive hydrogels, which enable the conduction of microcurrents in 3D in vitro cultures, are central to this advancement. The integration of high-electroconductive nanomaterials, such as graphene oxide (GO), into hydrogels has revolutionized their mechanical and conductivity properties. Here, we introduce a novel electrostimulation assay utilizing a hybrid hydrogel composed of methacryloyl-modified small intestine submucosa (SIS) dECM (SISMA), chitosan methacrylate (ChiMA), and GO-polyethylene glycol (GO-PEG) in a 3D in vitro culture within a hypoxic environment of umbilical cord blood cells (UCBCs). Results not only demonstrate significant cell proliferation within 3D constructs exposed to microcurrents and early growth factors but also highlight the hybrid hydrogel’s physiochemical prowess through comprehensive rheological, morphological, and conductivity analyses. Further experiments will focus on identifying the regulatory pathways of cells subjected to electrical stimulation.
The effects of diabetes self-management programs on clinical and patient reported outcomes in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alliston Paige , Jovkovic Milos , Khalid Saira , Fitzpatrick-Lewis Donna , Ali Muhammad Usman , Sherifali Diana
Published: June 2024

Objectives

With diabetes self-management continuing to become more complex for older adults, self-management programs have been shown to support this population in meeting their multifaceted medical needs. Building on our previous systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to update the literature on the effectiveness of diabetes self-management programs and investigate the impact of specific self-management interventions on clinical and patient-reported outcomes.

Methods

We updated our literature search in the following databases: Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL and Cochrane Database of Randomized Controlled Trials from November 2013 to July 2023 for studies that may fit our inclusion criteria. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted data from the included group of studies.

Results

A total of 17 studies with 21 comparison arms met the inclusion criteria, totalling 5976 older adults (3510 individuals randomized to self-management programming and 2466 to usual care). The pooled effectiveness of diabetes self-management programs in older adults on glycemic control (hemoglobin A1C) was a reduction of -0.32 (95% CI -0.44, -0.19). Specifically, the most effective approach on glycemic control (A1C) was the use of feedback (-0.52%; 95% CI -0.68, -0.36). Overall, self-management programs improved behaviour change outcomes, with feedback interventions being most effective (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.91; 95% CI 0.39, 1.43). The effect of self-management programs on body mass index, weight and lipids were statistically and clinically significant.

Conclusions

The evidence for diabetes self-management programs for older adults demonstrates a small but clinically meaningful reduction in A1C, improvement in patient-reported outcomes (behaviour, self-efficacy, knowledge), and other clinical outcomes (BMI, weight and lipids). The specific strategy used in diabetes self-management programs for older adults should be considered to achieve optimal results on outcomes.
Exploring global research trends in Chinese medicine for atherosclerosis: a bibliometric study 2012–2023
Authors: Tan Moye , Wang Jiuyuan , Chen Zhengxin , Xie Xuejiao
Published: June 2024

Background

While Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) boasts an extensive historical lineage and abundant clinical expertise in addressing atherosclerosis, this field is yet to be penetrated adequately by bibliometric studies. This study is envisaged to evaluate the contemporary scenario of TCM in conjunction with atherosclerosis over the preceding decade while also identifying forthcoming research trends and emerging topics via the lens of bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Literature pertaining to TCM and atherosclerosis, circulated between January 1, 2012 and November 14, 2023, was garnered for the purpose of this research. The examination embraced annual publications, primary countries/regions, engaged institutions and authors, scholarly journals, references, and keywords, utilizing analytical tools like Bibliometrix, CiteSpace, ScimagoGraphica, and VOSviewer present in the R package.

Result

This field boasts a total of 1,623 scholarly articles, the majority of which have been contributed by China in this field, with significant contributions stemming from the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Moreover, this field has received financial support from both the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key Basic Research Development Program. Wang Yong tops the list in terms of publication count, while Xu Hao's articles take the lead for the total number of citations, positioning them at the core of the authors’ collaborative network. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology leads with the most publications and boasts the greatest total number of citations. Principal research foci within the intersection of Chinese Medicine and Atherosclerosis encompass disease characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms, theoretical underpinnings and syndrome-specific treatments in Chinese medicine, potentialities of herbal interventions, and modulation exerted by Chinese medicines on gut microbiota.

Conclusion

This analysis offers a sweeping survey of the contemporary condition, principal foci, and progressive trends in worldwide research related to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and atherosclerosis. It further delves into an in-depth dissection of prominent countries, research institutions, and scholars that have made noteworthy strides in this discipline. Additionally, the report analyzes the most cited articles, research developments, and hotspots in the field, providing a reference for future research directions for clinical researchers and practitioners.
Toward the design of persuasive systems for a healthy workplace: a real-time posture detection
Authors: Ataguba Grace , Orji Rita
Published: June 2024

Persuasive technologies, in connection with human factor engineering requirements for healthy workplaces, have played a significant role in ensuring a change in human behavior. Healthy workplaces suggest different best practices applicable to body posture, proximity to the computer system, movement, lighting conditions, computer system layout, and other significant psychological and cognitive aspects. Most importantly, body posture suggests how users should sit or stand in workplaces in line with best and healthy practices. In this study, we developed two study phases (pilot and main) using two deep learning models: convolutional neural networks (CNN) and Yolo-V3. To train the two models, we collected posture datasets from creative common license YouTube videos and Kaggle. We classified the dataset into comfortable and uncomfortable postures. Results show that our YOLO-V3 model outperformed CNN model with a mean average precision of 92%. Based on this finding, we recommend that YOLO-V3 model be integrated in the design of persuasive technologies for a healthy workplace. Additionally, we provide future implications for integrating proximity detection taking into consideration the ideal number of centimeters users should maintain in a healthy workplace.
Organizational resilience and transformational leadership for managing complex school systems
Authors: Zadok Ayala , Benoliel Pascale , Schechter Chen
Published: June 2024

Introduction

In the context of global challenges facing educational institutions, this study explores the dynamics between transformational leadership, collective teacher efficacy, and organizational resilience in school systems. Specifically, it examines the mediating role of collective teacher efficacy in the relationship between middle leaders’ transformational leadership and organizational resilience.

Methods

The study involved data collection from 103 middle-leaders and 506 randomly selected secondary school teachers across Israel. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data, focusing on the mediating role of collective teacher efficacy in the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational resilience.

Results

The analysis revealed that collective teacher efficacy fully mediates the relationship between middle-leaders’ transformational leadership and organizational resilience. Middle-leaders’ transformational leadership positively impacts collective teacher efficacy, which in turn enhances organizational resilience. The study’s findings suggest that educational institutions can significantly increase their organizational resilience by fostering transformational leadership and strengthening collective teacher efficacy.

Discussion

The implications of these findings are both theoretical and practical. Theoretically, the study expands the understanding of the interplay between leadership styles and organizational resilience in educational settings. Practically, it provides insights for educational policymakers and practitioners aiming to enhance the resilience of schools by promoting transformational leadership and collective teacher efficacy.
Global competence in higher education: a ten-year systematic literature review
Authors: Jiaxin Guo , Huijuan Zhuang , Md Hasan Howlader
Published: June 2024

In the current epoch of economic globalization, the globalization of higher education has spurred an increasing interest in comprehending global competence. A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing a wide range of studies from 2013 to 2023 using the Web of Science and Scopus databases. The review aimed to present an updated overview of research on global competence, covering various aspects such as its definition, assessment dimensions, research objectives, methodologies, results, and limitations. Most publications define global competence using knowledge, attitudes, and skills as crucial dimensions, drawing from international organizational documents and research findings. However, the review also emphasizes the need for future research to adopt a longitudinal approach and develop global competence verification tools to measure global competence among university students and faculty. By providing a comprehensive analysis of current research, this review highlights the importance of understanding global competence in higher education and its potential impact on students and faculty in an increasingly interconnected world.
Case report: Exceptional transmission of congenital hyperinsulinism from a focal CHI mother to her diffuse CHI dichorionic diamniotic twins
Authors: Telehuz Daniela , Plesa Oana , Bouilloud Florence , Wucher Helene , De Lonlay Pascale , Bérat Claire-Marine , Saint-Martin Cécile , Dupuy Olivier , Arnoux Jean-Baptiste
Published: June 2024

We present the case of a 36-year-old female who was diagnosed at birth with CHI that caused severe hypoglycaemia unresponsive to Diazoxide. Subtotal pancreatectomy was performed at the age of three weeks. Later, histological analysis of her pancreas in a research setting revealed a focal form of CHI. Genetic testing was not available at that time. The patient developed pancreatic exocrine deficiency and insulin-dependent diabetes at the age of 9 years. In 2016, a genetic test revealed a missense heterozygous variant in the ABCC8 gene inherited from her father and classified as having a recessive inheritance. The geneticist concluded that the risk of CHI for her offspring would be low (1/600), making pregnancy favourable. As there was no consanguinity in the family, testing the future father was deemed unnecessary (carrier frequency 1/150 in the general population). The pregnancy occurred spontaneously in 2020 and at a gestational age of 28 weeks, the mother went into premature labour. An emergency C-section was performed in April 2021 resulting in the birth of bichorial bi-amniotic male twins. Following birth, both newborns experienced persistent severe hypoglycaemia which required glucagon treatment and intravenous glucose infusion initially, followed by Diazoxide from day 51 after birth, without satisfactory response. Continuous intravenous Octreotide treatment was introduced on day 72. Due to the recurrence of hypoglycaemia episodes despite reaching maximum doses of Octreotide, from day 92 the treatment was switched to Pasireotide. Genetic tests revealed the same genotypes for both infants: the exon 39 missense variant (c.4716C>A; p.Ser1572Arg) inherited from their mother and a truncating variant in exon 28 (c.3550del; p.Val1184*), inherited from their asymptomatic father. As a result of inheriting two recessive variants of the ABCC8 gene, the children were diagnosed with a diffuse form of CHI, consistent with the diazoxide-unresponsive presentation. This situation is very rare outside consanguinity. This case emphasises the significance of genetic counselling for individuals with a history of rare diseases outside the context of consanguinity, as there is a potential risk of recurrence. Prenatal diagnosis can lead to better outcomes for affected neonates, as well as help families make informed decisions about future pregnancies.
Molecular dynamics simulation of carbon dioxide flow in kaolinite pores
Authors: Sun Zhigang , Yang Tianfang , Jiang Wenyin
Published: June 2024

In order to estimate the effective storage capacity of carbon dioxide in geological storage, it makes great significance to understand the seepage mechanism of flowing carbon dioxide fluid and its influence on the occurrence state in micropore. In this paper, the molecular simulation method was used to obtain the optimal configuration of kaolinite micropore and carbon dioxide molecules. The molecular dynamics method was used to simulate the flow characteristics of carbon dioxide fluid in kaolinite pores in differential depth of burial under constant pressure drop. The results show that the adsorption capacity of carbon dioxide fluid on the wall of kaolinite decreases with the increase of burial depth, the fluid density in the center of the micropore increases with the increase of burial depth, the diffusion capacity of the fluid changes significantly when the burial depth is greater than 2 km; when a constant differential pressure is applied, the flow of carbon dioxide fluid in the pore conforms to the classical poiseulle flow, the diffusion ability of the fluid increases with the increase of burial depth, nearly doubling, and the slip length also increases with the increase of burial depth; the flow behavior significantly reduces the total amount of carbon dioxide in kaolinite micropore, where the density of the first adsorption layer near the wall decreases by at least 20%, and its effect on fluid is greater than that caused by the increase of burial depth. Therefore, when estimating the effective storage capacity of carbon dioxide in geological storage, the influence of pressure drop and burial depth on the total reduction of geological sequestration should be considered at the same time. The purpose is to provide more detailed theoretical basis for carbon dioxide geological sequestration.
Modeling seasonal ice and its impact on the thermal regime of a shallow boreal lake using the Canadian small Lake model
Authors: Kallel Habiba , Nadeau Daniel F. , Bouchard Benjamin , Thiboult Antoine , Mackay Murray D. , Anctil François
Published: June 2024

At high latitudes, lake-atmosphere interactions are disrupted for several months of the year by the presence of an ice cover. By isolating the water column from the atmosphere, ice, typically topped by snow, drastically alters albedo, surface roughness, and heat exchanges relative to the open water period, with major climatic, ecological, and hydrological implications. Lake models used to simulate the appearance and disappearance of the ice cover have rarely been validated with detailed in situ observations of snow and ice. In this study, we investigate the ability of the physically-based 1D Canadian Small Lake Model (CSLM) to simulate the freeze-up, ice-cover growth, and breakup of a small boreal lake. The model, driven offline by local weather observations, is run on Lake Piché, 0.15 km2 and 4 m deep (47.32°N; 71.15°W) from 25 October 2019 to 20 July 2021, and compared to observations of the temperature profile and ice and snow cover properties. Our results show that the CSLM is able to reproduce the total ice thickness (average error of 15 cm) but not the ice type-specific thickness, underestimating clear ice and overestimating snow ice. CSLM manages to reproduce snow depth (errors less than 10 cm). However, it has an average cold bias of 2°C and an underestimation of average snow density of 34 kg m−3. Observed and model freeze-up and break-up dates are very similar, as the model is able to predict the longevity of the ice cover to within 2 weeks. CSLM successfully reproduces seasonal stratification, the mixed layer depth, and surface water temperatures, while it shows discrepancies in simulating bottom waters especially during the open water period.
Multiple sclerosis in Central America and Caribbean countries: frequency and clinical characterization of an emergent disease
Authors: Gracia Fernando , Ramírez Navarro Deyanira A. , Ramírez Sánchez Nicia E. , Weiser Roberto , Parajeles-Vindas Alexander , Portillo Rivera Ligia I. , Torres Ericka López , García Valle Luis A. , Sanabria-Castro Alfredo , Abdón López César , Araujo Pahola , Ayerdis Zamora Maria J. , Balmaceda-Meza Andrea , Benzadon Cohen Aron , Candelario Cueto Awilda , Castillo Diego , Castro-Escobar Romy , Corea Urbina Karla Z. , de Peña Rivas Anyeri , Sotelo Octavio Duarte , Enamorado Claros Temís , Giroud Benítez José L. , Gracia Karla , Larreategui Mario , Martínez Cerrato Jorge A. , Medina Báez Josmarlin P. , Menjivar Samayoa Carlos E. , Miranda-Loria Gustavo , Monterrey-Alvarez Priscilla , Morales Arguello Lilliam A. , Ortiz Michelle , Pérez Baldioceda Carlos D. , Pinilla Aguilar Lizeth , Salinas Luis C. Rodríguez , Rodríguez-Moreno Virginia , Rojas-Chaves Sebastián , Román-Garita Norbel , Santos Pujols Biany , Valderrama Carlos , Van Sijtveld Ivonne , Zabala Angeles Indhira , Rivera Victor M. , Armien Blas
Published: June 2024

Background

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common neurological disease among white populations of European origin. Frequencies among Latin Americans continue to be studied, however, epidemiologic, and clinical characterization studies lack from Central American and Caribbean countries. Ethnicity in these countries is uniformly similar with a prevalent Mestizo population.

Methods and results

Data from January 2014 to December 2019 from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Dominican Republic, and Aruba on demographic, clinical, MRI and phenotypic traits were determined in coordinated studies: ENHANCE, a population-based, retrospective, observational study on incidence and clinical characteristics, and from the subgroup with MS national registries (Aruba, Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Panama), data on prevalence, phenotypes and demographics. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and therapeutic schemes were included. ENHANCE data from 758 patients disclosed 79.8% of Mestizo ethnicity; 72.4% female; median age at onset 31.0 years and 33.2 at diagnosis. The highest incidence rate was from Aruba, 2.3–3.5 × 100,000 inhabitants, and the lowest, 0.07–0.15 × 100,000, from Honduras. Crude prevalence rates per 100,000 inhabitants fluctuated from 27.3 (Aruba) to 1.0 (Honduras). Relapsing MS accounted for 87.4% of cases; EDSS <3.0 determined in 66.6% (mean disease duration: 9.1 years, SD ± 5.0); CSF oligoclonal bands 85.7%, and 87% of subjects hydroxyvitamin D deficient. Common initial therapies were interferon and fingolimod. Switching from interferon to fingolimod was the most common escalation step. The COVID-19 pandemic affected follow-up aspects of these studies.

Conclusion

This is the first study providing data on frequencies and clinical characteristics from 8 countries from the Central American and Caribbean region, addressing MS as an emergent epidemiologic disorder. More studies from these areas are encouraged.
Identification of DNA motif pairs on paired sequences based on composite heterogeneous graph
Authors: Wu Qiuqin , Li Yang , Wang Qi , Zhao Xiaoyu , Sun Duanchen , Liu Bingqiang
Published: June 2024

Motivation

The interaction between DNA motifs (DNA motif pairs) influences gene expression through partnership or competition in the process of gene regulation. Potential chromatin interactions between different DNA motifs have been implicated in various diseases. However, current methods for identifying DNA motif pairs rely on the recognition of single DNA motifs or probabilities, which may result in local optimal solutions and can be sensitive to the choice of initial values. A method for precisely identifying DNA motif pairs is still lacking.

Results

Here, we propose a novel computational method for predicting DNA Motif Pairs based on Composite Heterogeneous Graph (MPCHG). This approach leverages a composite heterogeneous graph model to identify DNA motif pairs on paired sequences. Compared with the existing methods, MPCHG has greatly improved the accuracy of motifs prediction. Furthermore, the predicted DNA motifs demonstrate heightened DNase accessibility than the background sequences. Notably, the two DNA motifs forming a pair exhibit functional consistency. Importantly, the interacting TF pairs obtained by predicted DNA motif pairs were significantly enriched with known interacting TF pairs, suggesting their potential contribution to chromatin interactions. Collectively, we believe that these identified DNA motif pairs held substantial implications for revealing gene transcriptional regulation under long-range chromatin interactions.
Broadening anticancer spectrum by preprocessing and treatment of T- lymphocytes expressed FcγRI and monoclonal antibodies for refractory cancers
Authors: Tang Lei , Sun Qinyi , Li Mengyuan , Yu Xiaoxiao , Meng Jinguo , Zhang Yun , Ma Yuxiao , Zeng Aizhong , Li Zhuolan , Liu Yuanyuan , Xu Xinyu , Guo Wei
Published: June 2024

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapies have achieved remarkable success in the treatment of hematological tumors. However, given the distinct features of solid tumors, particularly heterogeneity, metabolic aggressiveness, and fewer immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME), the practical utility of CAR-T cells for solid tumors remains as a challenging issue. Meanwhile, although anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) has shown clinical efficacy, most mAbs also show limited clinical benefits for solid tumors due mainly to the issues associated with the lack of immune cells in TME. Thus, the infiltration of targeted immunological active cells into TME could generate synergistic efficacy for mAbs.

Methods

We present a combinational strategy for solid tumor treatment, which combines armored-T cells to express Fc-gamma receptor I (FcγRI) fragment on the surfaces for targeting various tumors with therapeutically useful mAbs. Choosing CD20 and HER-2 as the targets, we characterized the in vitro and in vivo efficacy and latent mechanism of the combination drug by using flow cytometry, ELISA and other methods.

Results

The combination and preprocessing of armored T-cells with corresponding antibody of Rituximab and Pertuzumab exerted profound anti-tumor effects, which is demonstrated to be mediated by synergistically produced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) effects. Meanwhile, mAb was able to carry armored-T cell by preprocessing for the infiltration to TME in cell derived xenograft (CDX) model.

Conclusions

This combination strategy showed a significant increase of safety profiles from the reduction of antibody doses. More importantly, the present strategy could be a versatile tool for a broad spectrum of cancer treatment, with a simple pairing of engineered T cells and a conventional antibody.
Causal role of immune cells in thyroid cancer: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Fang Xianliu , Huang Xiaoxiao , Lu Jianhua , Su Danke
Published: June 2024

Background

The immune system plays an important role in the development and treatment of thyroid cancer(THCA).However, the correlation between immune cells and THCA has not been systematically studied.

Methods

This study used a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to determine the causal relationship between immune cell characteristics and THCA. Based on a large sample of publicly available genetic data, we explored the causal relationship between 731 immune cell characteristics and THCA risk. The 731 immunophenotypes were divided into 7 groups, including B cell panel(n=190),cDC panel(n=64),Maturation stages of T cell panel(n=79),Monocyte panel(n=43),Myeloid cell panel(n=64),TBNK panel(n=124),and Treg panel(n=167). The sensitivity of the results was analyzed, and heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were excluded.

Results

After FDR correction, the effect of immunophenotype on THCA was not statistically significant. It is worth mentioning, however, that there are some unadjusted low P-values phenotypes. The odds ratio (OR) of CD62L on monocyte on THCA risk was estimated to be 0.953 (95% CI=0.930~0.976, P=1.005×10−4),and which was estimated to be 0.975(95% CI=0.961–0.989, P=7.984×10−4) for Resting Treg%CD4 on THCA risk. Furthermore, THCA was associated with a reduced risk of 5 immunophenotype:CD25 on CD39+ CD4 on Treg (OR=0.871, 95% CI=0.812~0.935, P=1.274×10−4), activated Treg AC (OR=0.884, 95% CI=0.820~0.953, P=0.001), activated & resting Treg % CD4 Treg (OR=0.872, 95%CI=0.811~0.937,P=2.109×10−4),CD28- CD25++ CD8br AC(OR=0.867,95% CI=0.809~0.930,P=6.09×10−5),CD28-CD127-CD25++CD8brAC(OR=0.875,95%CI=0.814~0.942,P=3.619×10−4).THCA was associated with an increased risk of Secreting Treg % CD4 Treg (OR=1.143, 95% CI=1.064~1.229, P=2.779×10−4) and CD19 on IgD+ CD24+ (OR=1.118, 95% CI=1.041~1.120, P=0.002).

Conclusions

These findings suggest the causal associations between immune cells and THCA by genetic means. Our results may have the potential to provide guidance for future clinical research.
Different localization of P2X4 and P2X7 receptors in native mouse lung - lack of evidence for a direct P2X4-P2X7 receptor interaction
Authors: Sierra-Marquez Juan , Schaller Lena , Sassenbach Lukas , Ramírez-Fernández Antonio , Alt Philipp , Rissiek Björn , Zimmer Béla , Schredelseker Johann , Hector Julia , Stähler Tobias , Koch-Nolte Friedrich , Staab-Weijnitz Claudia A. , Dietrich Alexander , Kopp Robin , Nicke Annette
Published: June 2024

Introduction

P2X receptors are a family of homo- and heterotrimeric cation channels gated by extracellular ATP. The P2X4 and P2X7 subunits show overlapping expression patterns and have been involved in similar physiological processes, such as pain and inflammation as well as various immune cell functions. While formation of P2X2/P2X3 heterotrimers produces a distinct pharmacological phenotype and has been well established, functional identification of a P2X4/P2X7 heteromer has been difficult and evidence for and against a physical association has been found. Most of this evidence stems, however, from in vitro model systems.

Methods

Here, we used a P2X7-EGFP BAC transgenic mouse model as well as P2X4 and P2X7 knock-out mice to re-investigate a P2X4-P2X7 interaction in mouse lung by biochemical and immunohistochemical experiments as well as quantitative expression analysis.

Results

No detectable amounts of P2X4 could be co-purified from mouse lung via P2X7-EGFP. In agreement with these findings, immuno-histochemical analysis using a P2X7-specific nanobody revealed only limited overlap in the cellular and subcellular localizations of P2X4 and P2X7 in both the native lung tissue and primary cells. Comparison of P2X4 and P2X7 transcript and protein levels in the respective gene-deficient and wild type mice showed no mutual interrelation between their expression levels in whole lungs. However, a significantly reduced P2rx7 expression was found in alveolar macrophages of P2rx4-/- mice.

Discussion

In summary, our detailed analysis of the cellular and subcellular P2X4 and P2X7 localization and expression does not support a physiologically relevant direct association of P2X4 and P2X7 subunits or receptors in vivo.