bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENERAPAN INOVASI DIGITAL PEMASARAN UNTUK PENINGKATAN OMZET PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI RUMAH TANGGA PKK KELURAHAN RAGUNAN
Authors: Handayani Rani Irma , Kristiana Titin , Setiaji Setiaji , Listyaningrum Heni , Aprilia Sarah
Published: October 2024

The background of this Community Service activity is that PKM partners of PKK cadres in Ragunan Village have several limitations in terms of identity, packaging and product marketing. For product identity, there is no logo (label) for packaging, so the product that has been made is less known. In addition, there is no safe packaging design for the delivery of business products sold. So far, sales have only been carried out through event bazaars around Ragunan village so that there is a lack of marketing networks. Limited sales range, and the target market is not wide and diverse, revenue or sales turnover does not increase. The purpose of this PKM activity is to expand market reach, build strong product appeal, increase sales turnover and increase economic independence. The method for this PKM activity is to provide socialization and training regarding new product logos for the packaging production process on packaging labels, packaging design for shipping packaging, socializing the e-commerce application that has been made to PKK cadres of Ragunan Village. Providing training in using e-commerce platforms to market their products. The targeted output is to create an online sales application (e-commerce) to be able to market the business products of PKK cadres in Ragunan Village widely. This community service reached the main conclusion that digital marketing strategies effectively help the economic empowerment of PKK cadres' households and this strategy shows positive results in increasing their economic independence and income.
Navigation and Maritime Trade Networks in the Aegean (9th–13th c.): The Evidence from Shipwrecks
Authors: Kostageorgou Aspa
Published: October 2024

This paper focuses on the study of seventy-four shipwrecks as evidence for the understanding of complex navigation patterns and the formation of maritime trade networks in the Aegean during the Middle and Late Byzantine periods. An analysis based on the spatial and chronological distribution of wrecks and on the nature of their cargo has been followed. The aim of this study is to place the maritime archaeological data in the broader historical and archaeological context of the period, for the interpretation of the mechanisms of maritime trade activity and the distinguished characteristics they present.
Roman ports: significance of their role, their structure and construction
Authors: Iossifidis Thomas
Published: October 2024

This article presents Roman innovation in port construction. It begins with a brief presentation of the history of Roman ports, in order to explain their economic and social significance and the factors that led to their development. The main material for port construction, the famous and revolutionary opus caementicium, will be thoroughly discussed. A description of basic port structures, meaning the breakwaters, the jetties and the quays, will follow. The lighthouses and the port canals will also be presented as secondary port structures.
The Relationship between Servant Leadership and Job Satisfaction: Research on Teachers
Authors: Güler Nuran , Şimşek Tuğçe
Published: October 2024

It is known that employees' job satisfaction is impacted by leaders. In this regard, the aim of the research is to reveal the relationship between teachers' servant leadership perception and job satisfaction. "The Job Satisfaction Scale" was used in the study to measure the job satisfaction levels of employees. "The Servant Leadership Scale" was used to determine the perception of servant leadership. The research was conducted on 351 teachers working in public and private educational institutions in Ağrı. The survey method was used as a data collection tool and the data were analyzed with SPSS 20.0 program. Reliability analysis, regression analysis, correlation analysis, and factor analysis were used to evaluate the data. According to the analysis of the data obtained as a result of this study, which examined the relationship between teachers' servant leadership perception and job satisfaction, a strong positive (r = 0.582) and significant (p < 0.05) relationship was determined between servant leadership and job satisfaction. According to the results of the regression analysis regarding the effect of the relationship; it has been determined that servant leadership affects job satisfaction positively and significantly.
REFLECTION OF ALCOHOLISM IN THE LYRICS “CHANDELIER” BY SIA
Authors: Rahmah Tsaqila Idzhan Nur , Hikmat Mahi M.
Published: October 2024

This research aims to determine the author's psychology in creating a literary work through a psychoanalytic perspective. The creation of a lyric cannot be separated from its author. Sia Kate Isobelle Furler and Jesse Shatkin wrote the lyrics to the song entitled Chandelier. This research was conducted to find out how the psychological role of the author influences the literary work created by the author. The psychological theory that is very dominant in the analysis of literary works is Freud’s theory, where this theory differentiates personality into three types, namely Id, Ego, and Super Ego. Data collection uses documentation techniques from primary data sources, namely the lyrics of the song “Chandelier” and secondary data sources in the form of books, research journals, and articles which relevant. This research uses qualitative descriptive methods to conduct an analysis, using library research methods and content analysis methods to collect and analyze the data used. The research results show that the lyrics she created reflect the psychological state of the author. Represented through several sentences and characters built into the lyrics, which consist of 3 aspects of the Id, 3 aspects of the ego, and 1 aspect of the superego. This results in the conclusion that the psychological condition of the writer, Furler, who is a former alcoholic, can influence the creation of the lyrics of the song Chandelier where alcohol acts as an escape from the pain she felt, this is in line with Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory.
SOCIAL IDENTITY AND ITS IMPACTS ON YOZO OBA’S ALIENATION IN “NO LONGER HUMAN”
Authors: Prasetya Alvionita Zyahwalian , Thohiriyah Thohiriyah
Published: October 2024

This research is conducted to understand social identity development and its impacts on alienation experienced by Yozo Oba, the main character in Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human (1958). This study applies the Social Identity Theory (SIT) by Trepte & Loy (2017) and Fromm’s theory of alienation (in Nadhiroh, 2015) to analyze how Yozo’s experiences influence his social identity development and how it affects his actions throughout his life. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach and a close-reading method to collect and analyze the data. The primary data is the English translation of the novel by Donald Keene (1958), and secondary data is collected from journals, articles, and books related to SIT and the theory of alienation. The analysis of Yozo Oba using the principles of Social Categorization, Social Identity, and Self-Esteem from SIT, and the concept of alienation from oneself, alienation from others, and alienation from society shows that Yozo Oba developed a dissatisfying social identity which affected his experience and behaviors, and led him to feel alienation from himself, others, and the society.
Hybrid Pd0.1Cu0.9Co2O4 nano-flakes: a novel, efficient and reusable catalyst for the one-pot heck and Suzuki couplings with simultaneous transesterification reactions under microwave irradiation
Authors: Patel Ashok Raj , Maity Gurupada , Pati Tanmay K. , Adak Laksmikanta , Cioffi Christopher L. , Banerjee Subhash
Published: October 2024

We report the fabrication of a novel spinel-type Pd₀.₁Cu₀.₉Co₂O₄ nano-flake material designed for Mizoroki-Heck and Suzuki coupling-cum-transesterification reactions. The Pd₀.₁Cu₀.₉Co₂O₄ material was synthesized using a simple co-precipitation method, and its crystalline phase and morphology were characterized through powder XRD, UV-Vis, FESEM, and EDX studies. This material demonstrated excellent catalytic activity in Mizoroki-Heck and Suzuki cross-coupling reactions, performed in the presence of a mild base (K₂CO₃), ethanol as the solvent, and microwave irradiation under ligand-free conditions. Notably, the Heck coupling of acrylic esters proceeded concurrently with transesterification using various alcohols as solvents. The catalyst exhibited remarkable stability under reaction conditions and could be recycled and reused up to ten times while maintaining its catalytic integrity.
Associations between teachers’ beliefs and their perception of hate speech in school: a study in Germany and Switzerland
Authors: Kansok-Dusche Julia , Wettstein Alexander , Fischer Saskia M. , Wachs Sebastian , Bilz Ludwig
Published: October 2024

Hate speech is a global issue that is also prevalent among adolescents and requires an educational response. Teachers handle hate speech as part of their professional role. To date, we know little about their beliefs in relation to the early stages of their interventional actions, specifically to their perception of hate speech in school. Thus, this study examined associations between teachers’ social dominance orientation, their pluralist attitude, and their hate speech perception in school. A sample of 471 secondary school teachers from 38 schools (Germany: n = 251; Switzerland: n = 220) participated in a self-report survey from December 2020 to April 2021 (MAge = 42.8 years; 57.7% females; 21.0% with migration status). Data from a total of 3,560 students from grades 7–9 (Germany: n = 1,841; Switzerland: n = 1,719) were matched with teachers’ data to control for students’ hate speech perception in school. Fixed effects multilevel regressions were run, including covariates (teachers’ age, gender, migration status, students’ hate speech perception), teachers’ social dominance orientation, pluralist attitude, and their hate speech perception in school. Teachers perceived a higher frequency of offline hate speech than online hate speech. Contrary to the hypotheses, social dominance orientation was positively associated with offline and online hate speech perception. As predicted, teachers’ pluralist attitude was positively linked to their off- and online hate speech perception. Further research must now clarify how the investigated beliefs and attitudes and teachers’ hate speech perception in school relate to other aspects of their professional competence.
Liquid-phase synthesis of a Li3PS4 solid electrolyte using ethyl isobutyrate as a synthetic medium
Authors: Minh Nguyet Nguyen Thi , Anh Luu Tuan , Toan Tran Viet , Tu Tran Anh , Quynh Anh Luong Thi , Huy Phuc Nguyen Huu
Published: October 2024

A β-Li3PS4 solid electrolyte was prepared via liquid-phase synthesis using ethyl isobutyrate as a synthetic medium. The precursor and solid electrolyte structures were characterized using thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction techniques. The dielectric relaxation analysis showed two relaxation regions, which revealed a bulk and grain boundary ionic migration process. At a temperature lower than 90°C, the frequency dependence of the dielectric constant of the prepared sample was different from that of glassy Li3PS4, indicating that the motion of the PS4 unit enhances the ionic conductivity of the Li3PS4 solid electrolyte. The ionic conductivities of the cold-pressed and warm-pressed pellets at 25°C were 6.8 × 10−5 Scm−1 and 3.6 × 10−4 Scm−1, respectively.
Development and characterization of high-throughput serological assays to measure magnitude and functional immune response against S. Paratyphi A in human samples
Authors: Carducci Martina , Massai Luisa , Lari Elisa , Semplici Bianca , Grappi Silvia , Maria Noshi , Jones Elizabeth , Conti Valentino , Piu Pietro , Scorza Francesco Berlanda , Iturriza-Gómara Miren , Montomoli Emanuele , Pollard Andrew J. , Rondini Simona , Rossi Omar
Published: October 2024

Typhoid and Paratyphoid fever cause a global health burden, especially for the children of Southern Asia. The impact of the disease is further exacerbated by the dramatic increase of antimicrobial resistance. While vaccines against Salmonella Typhi have been developed and successfully introduced, an effective vaccine targeting S. Paratyphi A is still lacking. Several efforts are currently ongoing to develop vaccines targeting both S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi A. In order to analyze the immune response induced by vaccination and in sero-epidemiological studies, easy to perform and high throughput immunoassays are needed. Here we present the setup and characterization of a customized ELISA assay and of a luminescent-based serum bactericidal assay (L-SBA) to measure the quantity of S. Paratyphi O antigen specific antibodies and their functional activity against S. Paratyphi A. Robust quality control criteria have been put in place both for ELISA and SBA and assays have been fully characterized in terms of quantitation limit, limit of blanks, specificity, linearity and precision. Assays are being employed to analyze samples from clinical trials, enabling the assessment of immunogenicity during clinical vaccine development.
Progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia involving a novel CCN6 mutation: a case report
Authors: Li Yu , Huang Zhengping , Yan Yun , Guo Feng , Wei Gang , Wang Yue , Xie Yu
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aims to report a case of progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia (PPRD) with two kinds of cellular communication network factor 6 (CCN6) gene mutation. In this paper, the clinical profile and the process of diagnosis were analyzed, and the related literature was reviewed. A 15-year-old boy, who developed progressive ankle and hip joint pain and enlargement with spine involvement, was diagnosed with PPRD. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein (CRP) were in the normal range; rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) were all negative. Human leukocyte antigen 27 (HLA-B27) was also negative. Cene study discovered two kinds of mutations in CCN6 gene: c. 802T>C and c.624dup. Radiographic studies revealed spine platyspondyly and shaped beaked, osteoporosis, and bilateral symmetric bony enlargements of the interphalangeal joints. Hip shows bilateral acetabulum and femoral head bone marrow edema, which revealed hip arthritis. Gene detection, laboratory examination, and typical radiographic features are helpful for the diagnosis of PPRD. This is the first report of c. 802T>C and c.624dup mutations in patients with PPRD in our country.
On the role of onshore geostrophic flow on larval retention in a permanent upwelling zone along north-central Chile
Authors: Flores Eduardo A. , Ramos Marcel , Dewitte Boris , Astudillo Orlando , Glasner Lucas
Published: October 2024

The Humboldt Archipelago (HAp), located off north-central Chile (~28° - 33° S) is one of the most productive marine zones of the Humboldt Current System (HCS). This area lies within a permanent upwelling zone, characterized by two upwelling centers, 100 km apart, that define the Coquimbo Bays System (CBS). The resulting increase in primary productivity and larval retention are mentioned as the main factors that explain the high biodiversity. However, how these upwelling centers interact remains unclear due to the interplay of various physical features such as the general circulation, the meso- and submeso-scale structures (e.g., eddies), and remote and local forcings (e.g., winds, topography) that affect larval transport in the HAp. In this study, we focus on the role played by geostrophic and Ekman currents in controlling the retention (and dispersion) of particles in these centers based on the analyses of satellite data and hydrodynamic model outputs. Lagrangian models are in particular carried out to document particles’ transport during selected oceanic conditions corresponding to whether Ekman transport or geostrophic recirculation prevails or are debilitated. The latitudinal variation of the Ekman transport reveals two maxima at each upwelling center with differences in spatial extent but not in intensity. Mean zonal geostrophic current occurs in alternating flow at each upwelling center. Results of the Lagrangian experiments highlight the importance of the cross-shore geostrophic flow on larval transport, where an increased transport of particles to the north and northwest occurs at the southern upwelling center, while the northern upwelling center (where HAp is located) received particles from the south and retained particles released in the same area, which is related to the cyclonic geostrophic recirculation and lower Ekman transport. Particle retention increased with depth and under the relaxation and downwelling scenarios revealing the importance of wind alternation for larval retention. The CBS could act as an upwelling shadow in the south and an upwelling trap in the north where the onshore flow of geostrophic current could enhance larval retention and recruitment over longer periods when compared with the Ekman transport timescale.
Superconductivity in mercurides of strontium
Authors: Nixon Rachel , Prots Yurii , Krnel Mitja , Zaremba Nazar , Pavlosiuk Orest , Schmidt Marcus , Akselrud Lev , Grin Yuri , Svanidze Eteri
Published: October 2024

A large variety of chemical and physical properties are exhibited by mercurides and amalgams. In this work, we have successfully examined seven strontium mercurides: SrHg11, SrHg8, Sr10Hg55, SrHg2, SrHg, Sr3Hg2, and Sr3Hg. The interest in the mercury-rich region is motivated by the large number of mercury-based superconductors that have high mercury content. At the same time, the preparation on the mercury-rich side of the binary phase diagram is experimentally non-trivial, due to the high vapor pressure of mercury and extreme air-sensitivity of mercury-rich compounds. By employing a set of specialized techniques, we were able to discover superconductivity in three mercury-strontium compounds – SrHg11 (Tc=3.2±0.3 K, Hc2=0.18±0.05 T), SrHg8 (Tc=3.0±0.1 K, Hc2=0.35±0.02 T), and Sr10Hg55 (Tc=2.2±0.25 K, Hc2=0.54±0.05 T).
Hydrogel composition and mechanical stiffness of 3D bioprinted cell-loaded scaffolds promote cartilage regeneration
Authors: Liu Ge , Wei Xiaowei , Li Junlei , Zhai Yun , Zhang Jingrun , Jin Ming , Guan Tianmin , Zhao Dewei
Published: October 2024

Objective

To investigate the impact of different component ratios and mechanical stiffness of the gelatin-sodium alginate composite hydrogel scaffold, fabricated through 3D bioprinting, on the viability and functionality of chondrocytes.

Methods

Three different concentrations of hydrogel, designated as low, medium, and high, were prepared. The rheological properties of the hydrogel were characterized to optimize printing parameters. Subsequently, the printability and shape fidelity of the cell-loaded hydrogel scaffolds were statistically evaluated, and the chondrocyte viability was observed. Dynamic mechanical analysis was conducted to measure the modulus, thereby assessing the scaffold’s stiffness. Following a 21-day culture period, RT-PCR, histological staining, and immunostaining were employed to assess chondrocyte activity, chondrosphere aggregates formation, and cartilage matrix production.

Results

Based on rheological analysis, optimal printing temperatures for each group were determined as 27.8°C, 28.5°C, and 30°C. The optimized printing parameters could ensure the molding effect of the scaffolds on the day of printing, with the actual grid area of the scaffolds was close to the theoretical grid area. And the scaffolds exhibited good cell viability (93.24% ± 0.99%, 92.04% ± 1.49%, and 88.46% ± 1.53%). After 7 days of culture, the medium and high concentration groups showed no significant change in grid area compared to the day of printing (p > 0.05), indicating good morphological fidelity. As the hydrogel’s bicomponent ratio increased, both the storage modulus and loss modulus increased, while the loss factor remained relatively constant. The highest number of chondrocytes-formed chondrosphere aggregates in the medium concentration group was observed by light microscopy. RT-PCR results indicated significantly higher expression levels of chondrogenic genes SOX9, Agg, and Col-II in the low and medium concentration groups compared to the high concentration group (p < 0.05). Histological staining results showed that the middle concentration group formed the highest number of typical cartilage lacunae.

Conclusion

The aforementioned results indicate that in 3D bioprinted cell-loaded GA-SA composite hydrogel scaffolds, the scaffolds with the composition ratio (10:3) and mechanical stiffness (∼155 kPa) exhibit sustained morphological fidelity, effectively preserve the hyaline phenotype of chondrocytes, and are more conducive to cartilage regeneration.
Case report: Mixed hydrofluoric and nitric acid mist inhalation poisoning
Authors: Zhang Tongyue , He Xingbing , Wang Chen , Zhou Zhiqiang , Genjiafu Aerbusili , Wen Zixin , Jian Xiangdong , Li Qilu
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Hydrofluoric and nitric acids are strongly acidic substances with strong oxidation and are widely used in industrial production. Chemical pneumonia caused by the inhalation of strong acids has occasionally been reported. Severe chemical pneumonia can lead to acute pulmonary edema and life-threatening acute respiratory distress syndrome. The treatment of chemical pneumonia mainly relies on symptomatic and supportive treatment such as anti-inflammatory and anti-infection.

Case description

This study reports three cases of chemical pneumonia caused by the inhalation of a mixed hydrofluoric and nitric acid mist during an occupational exposure accident. After appropriate emergency symptomatic treatment, such as oxygenation and excretion promotion, cough, and difficulty in breathing were alleviated but not completely cleared.

Discussion

Most of the literature reports damage caused by hydrogen fluoride on the skin and mucosal burns, and reports on lung damage caused by the inhalation of large amounts of hydrogen fluoride gas are relatively rare. Usually in the early stage of this kind of patients can have elevated blood picture, hypoxemia, pulmonary CT inflammatory plaque changes, so as to have obvious respiratory irritation symptoms. When inhaling a large amount of hydrofluorine mixed nitric acid mist, in addition to considering the occurrence of severe pneumonia, we should also be alert to the occurrence of other organ damage and electrolyte disorder.

Conclusion

As occupational hydrogen fluoride gas inhalation poisoning often occurs in groups, improving the safety facilities and standard operations of small- and medium-sized enterprises is necessary. For medical workers, it is necessary to be alert to the occurrence of severe toxic pneumonia and severe fluorosis.
Bronchoscopy and molecular diagnostic techniques to identify superimposed infections in COVID-19-associated ARDS: a case series from Ecuador during the second wave
Authors: Briones Claudett Killen Harold , Briones-Claudett Mónica H. , Murillo Vasconez Roger , Benitez Sólis Jaime G. , Briones Zamora Killen H. , Freire Amado X. , Barberan-Torres Pedro , Grunauer Michelle
Published: October 2024

Introduction

COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS) poses significant challenges in resource-limited settings. This case series explores the role of bronchoscopy and molecular techniques in identifying superimposed infections in CARDS patients during the second wave of the pandemic in Ecuador.

Methods

Nine critically ill CARDS patients underwent bronchoscopy and molecular testing to detect co-infections and superinfections. Clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Bronchoscopy and molecular techniques identified a range of secondary infections, including multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The case series highlights the complexities of managing severe COVID-19 cases in resource-constrained environments.

Discussion

Early identification of microorganisms using PCR methods allows for rapid and accurate diagnosis, facilitating targeted management of critically ill CARDS patients. The study underscores the importance of advanced diagnostic tools and adaptable strategies in pandemic situations, particularly in low-resource settings.
Stress-induced obesity in mice causes cognitive decline associated with inhibition of hippocampal neurogenesis and dysfunctional gut microbiota
Authors: Liu Yu-e , Zhao Zhihuang , He Haili , Li Liangyuan , Xiao Chenghong , Zhou Tao , You Zili , Zhang Jinqiang
Published: October 2024

Effects of stress on obesity have been thoroughly studied in high-fat diet fed mice, but not in normal diet fed mice, which is important to clarify because even on a normal diet, some individuals will become obese under stress conditions. Here we compared mice that showed substantial weight gain or loss under chronic mild stress while on a normal diet; we compared the two groups in terms of cognitive function, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling, neurogenesis and activation of microglia in hippocampus, gene expression and composition of the gut microbiome. Chronic mild stress induced diet-independent obesity in approximately 20% of animals, and it involved inflammatory responses in peripheral and central nervous system as well as hyperactivation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling and of microglia in the hippocampus, which were associated with cognitive deficits and impaired hippocampal neurogenesis. It significantly increased in relative abundance at the phylum level (Firmicutes), at the family level (Prevotellaceae ucg − 001 and Lachnospiraceae NK4a136), at the genus level (Dubosiella and Turicibacter) for some enteric flora, while reducing the relative abundance at the family level (Lactobacillaceae and Erysipelotrichaceae), at the genus level (Bacteroidota, Alistipes, Alloprevotella, Bifidobacterium and Desulfovibrio) for some enteric flora. These results suggest that stress, independently of diet, can induce obesity and cognitive decline that involve dysfunctional gut microbiota. These insights imply that mitigation of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling and microglial activation as well as remodeling of gut microbiota may reverse stress-induced obesity and associated cognitive decline.
Isolation and identification of probiotic Bacillus subtilis AJQ03 from the intestinal tract of Anguilla japonica (Japanese eel)
Authors: Wang Xi , Yao Yuxin , Ge Hui , Zhang Jiaonan , Zhang Jiaolin , Yan Qingpi
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the use of fish-derived probiotics in aquaculture has become more widespread. However, research on Anguilla japonica-derived probiotics is still limited. To evaluate the potential of probiotics for disease control in eel aquaculture, isolates were obtained from the intestinal tract of healthy Anguilla japonica. These isolates were assessed for their adhesion properties, inhibition of pathogen adhesion, and hydrolytic enzyme production. Morphological characteristics and 16S rRNA sequence analysis were used for identification. Results showed that the AJQ03 strain adhered to the intestinal mucus and inhibited common pathogenic bacteria through adhesion inhibition, and further produced amylase, lipase, protease, and cellulase. Based on morphological characteristics and 16S rRNA sequencing, AJQ03 was identified as Bacillus subtilis. The strain demonstrated tolerance to various extreme conditions, as well as survival in simulated gastrointestinal fluids and superior growth in intestinal fluid compared to Luria-Bertani (LB) broth. In vitro safety tests showed that AJQ03 was not resistant to 32 antibiotics and exhibited γ hemolysis on blood plate. In vivo safety tests demonstrated a 100% survival rate for the fish, with stable organ indices, reduced bacterial loads in the liver and spleen, and complete bacterial clearance by day 7 without residue. Intestinal bacterial load results confirmed effective colonization by strain AJQ03. Analysis of the impact of AJQ03 on the gut microbiota of A. japonica revealed a significant increase in the relative abundance of Bacillus at the genus level, corroborating the colonization efficiency of AJQ03. Additionally, the relative abundances of Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, and Aeromonas were significantly lower compared to the controls, indicating that strain AJQ03 effectively reduced harmful bacteria and improved gut microbiota composition. This study confirms that B. subtilis AJQ03, isolated from the intestine of A. japonica, can serve as a probiotic candidate in A. japonica aquaculture.
Evolving epidemiology, clinical features, and genotyping of dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh, 2000–2024: a systematic review
Authors: Sharif Nadim , Opu Rubayet Rayhan , Saha Tama , Masud Abdullah Ibna , Naim Jannatin , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Alvarado Eduardo Silva , Noya Irene Delgado , De la Torre Díez Isabel , Dey Shuvra Kanti
Published: October 2024

Background

The 2023 dengue outbreak has proven that dengue is not only an endemic disease but also an emerging health threat in Bangladesh. Integrated studies on the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, seasonality, and genotype of dengue are limited. This study was conducted to determine recent trends in the molecular epidemiology, clinical features, and seasonality of dengue outbreaks.

Methods

We analyzed data from 41 original studies, extracting epidemiological information from all 41 articles, clinical symptoms from 30 articles, and genotypic diversity from 11 articles. The study adhered to the standards of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement and Cochrane Collaboration guidelines.

Results

A total of 565,438 dengue cases and 2,587 fatalities were documented from January 2000 to March 2024. Notably, 60% of cases during the 2019 and 2023 outbreaks were reported in regions previously considered non-endemic. Fatalities were more frequent among women (70%). The majority of the studies (95–100%) used the NS1Ag test, followed by IgG or IgM and RT-PCR tests. New hotspots of dengue transmission were identified in the southern (Khulna, 10.8% and Barishal, 11.8%) and southeastern (Chattogram, 13.8%) regions of Bangladesh. Serotyping was conducted on 92.4% (1,456 of 1,575) of isolates between 2012 and 2023. Of the four serotypes, DENV3 was the most prevalent (57%), followed by DENV2 (30%), DENV1 (11%), and DENV4 (<1%). Genotype DENV3-I (43 of 59 isolates) was the most prevalent, followed by DENV3-II (8 of 59). The highest frequency of dengue cases was observed in August (26.3%), followed by September (22.5%), October (20.2%), and November (13.08%). Fever (90.51, 95% CI 85–100%) was the most prevalent symptom, followed by headache (57.98, 95% CI 12–100%), vomiting (51.16, 95% CI 23–91%), abdominal pain (34.12, 95% CI 12–85%), and myalgia (25.53, 95% CI 13–85%), respectively.

Conclusion

This study provides integrated insights into the molecular epidemiology, clinical features, seasonality, and transmission of dengue in Bangladesh and highlights research gaps for future studies.
Use of BD BACTEC™ MGIT™ for the detection of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in sanitary water samples
Authors: Ferraro Vincenzo , Bisognin Francesco , Sorella Federica , Ruin Federica , Dal Monte Paola
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The most commonly used method for the detection of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is culture in BD BACTEC™ MGIT™ Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tubes incubated in an automated growth detection reader BD BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 Instrument. The system is currently validated for the detection of mycobacteria from clinical specimens but not environmental matrices.

Methods

From November 2018 to December 2023, 1,369 sanitary water samples from 92 heater–cooler units (HCUs) and 747 sanitary water samples from 489 haemodialysis instruments (dialysis) were concentrated, decontaminated, and cultured on MGIT and solid Lowenstein–Jensen media to evaluate the presence of NTM. NTM-positive cultures (n = 261 HCUs and n = 20 dialysis) were purified by Middlebrook 7H11 agar plate subcultures and identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry technology.

Results

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of the MGIT system on sanitary water from HCU and dialysis, using the two strains most frequently isolated on these devices as sources of NTM during the Emilia- Romagna surveillance programme: M. chimaera (79%) and M. saskatchewanense (100%), respectively. To evaluate the accuracy, sanitary water was spiked with M. chimaera and M. saskatchewanense at the theoretical concentrations of 100 and 10 CFU/mL, and all resulted positive in MGIT tubes. No significant changes in time to positivity were observed when MGIT tubes were inoculated with NTM at the theoretical concentrations of 10 and 100 CFU/mL on 3 consecutive days, indicating that the detection method is reproducible.

Discussion

The MGIT system is suitable for detecting the presence of NTM in sanitary water samples as it was capable of detecting up to 4 CFU/mL for both M. chimaera and M. saskatchewanense. Our results indicate that the MGIT system can be used for NTM detection not only for clinical samples but also for environmental matrices.
Spectral cluster supertree: fast and statistically robust merging of rooted phylogenetic trees
Authors: McArthur Robert N. , Zehmakan Ahad N. , Charleston Michael A. , Lin Yu , Huttley Gavin
Published: October 2024

The algorithms for phylogenetic reconstruction are central to computational molecular evolution. The relentless pace of data acquisition has exposed their poor scalability and the conclusion that the conventional application of these methods is impractical and not justifiable from an energy usage perspective. Furthermore, the drive to improve the statistical performance of phylogenetic methods produces increasingly parameter-rich models of sequence evolution, which worsens the computational performance. Established theoretical and algorithmic results identify supertree methods as critical to divide-and-conquer strategies for improving scalability of phylogenetic reconstruction. Of particular importance is the ability to explicitly accommodate rooted topologies. These can arise from the more biologically plausible non-stationary models of sequence evolution. We make a contribution to addressing this challenge with Spectral Cluster Supertree, a novel supertree method for merging a set of overlapping rooted phylogenetic trees. It offers significant improvements over Min-Cut supertree and previous state-of-the-art methods in terms of both time complexity and overall topological accuracy, particularly for problems of large size. We perform comparisons against Min-Cut supertree and Bad Clade Deletion. Leveraging two tree topology distance metrics, we demonstrate that while Bad Clade Deletion generates more correct clades in its resulting supertree, Spectral Cluster Supertree’s generated tree is generally more topologically close to the true model tree. Over large datasets containing 10,000 taxa and ∼500 source trees, where Bad Clade Deletion usually takes ∼2 h to run, our method generates a supertree in on average 20 s. Spectral Cluster Supertree is released under an open source license and is available on the python package index as sc-supertree.
Development of a prognostic model for early-stage gastric cancer-related DNA methylation-driven genes and analysis of immune landscape
Authors: Su Chen , Lin Zeyang , Ye Zhijian , Liang Jing , Yu Rong , Wan Zheng , Hou Jingjing
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

This study aimed to develop a prognostic model based on DNA methylation-driven genes for patients with early-stage gastric cancer and to examine immune infiltration and function across varying risk levels.

Methods

We analyzed data from stage I/II gastric cancer patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas which included clinical details, mRNA expression profiles, and level 3 DNA methylation array data. Using the empirical Bayes method of the limma package, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and the MethylMix package facilitated the identification of DNA methylation-driven genes (DMGs). Univariate Cox regression and LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selector operation) analyses were utilized to pinpoint critical genes. A risk score prediction model was formulated using two genes that demonstrated the most significant hazard ratios (HRs). Model performance was evaluated within the initial cohort and verified in the GSE84437 cohort; a nomogram was also constructed based on these genes. We further examined 50 methylation sites associated with three CpG islands in C1orf35 and 14 methylation sites linked to one CpG island in FAAH. The CIBERSORT package was employed to identify immune cell clusters in the prediction model.

Results

A total of 176 DNA methylation-driven genes were refined down to a four-gene signature (ZC3H12A was hypermethylated; GATA3, C1orf35, and FAAH were hypomethylated), which exhibited a significant correlation with overall survival (OS), as evidenced by p-values below 0.05 following univariate Cox regression and LASSO analysis. Specifically, for the risk score prediction model, C1orf35, which had the highest hazard ratio (HR = 2.035, p = 0.028), and FAAH, with the lowest hazard ratio (HR = 0.656, p = 0.012), were selected. The Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated distinct survival outcomes between the high-risk and low-risk score groups. The model’s predictive accuracy was confirmed with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.611 for 3-year survival and 0.564 for 5-year survival. Notably, the hypomethylation of the three CpG islands in C1orf35 and the single CpG island in FAAH was significantly different in stage I/II gastric cancer patients compared to normal tissues. Additionally, the high-risk score group showed a notable association with resting CD4 memory T cells.

Conclusion

Promoter hypomethylation of C1orf35 and FAAH in early-stage gastric cancer underscores their potential as biomarkers for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The developed predictive model employing genes affected by DNA methylation serves as a crucial independent prognostic factor in early-stage gastric cancer.
Biomarkers and Alzheimer’s disease: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Yang Linyi , Zeng Jingyan , Li Linlin , Zhang Yunwei
Published: October 2024

Objective

The diagnosis and treatment of biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease has emerged as a prominent topic within Alzheimer’s disease research. In this paper, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of data from a wide range of literature in this field to enhance the in-depth understanding of this area.

Method

The core collection of the Science Citation Index database (web of science) was used to search for relevant literature in the above fields from 1 January 2006 to 14 November 2022 and Citespace software was used to visualize and analyze the literature data.

Results

A total of 1,138 papers were included, of which the United States ranked first with 607 papers and China ranked 6th in the world with 84 papers. The value of mediational centrality is 0.49 in the United States and 0.05 in China. In terms of the number of articles published by the research authors, the Swedish scholar Blennow Kaj ranks first with 82 articles published, and the scholars who rank second and third are Zetterberg Henrik (78 articles) and Morris John C (64 articles), respectively; in terms of the mediational centrality, the American scholar Trojanowski John Q ranked first in the world with 0.1, and the second and third ranked scholars were Blennow Kaj (0.09) and Zetterberg Henrik (0.06) respectively. Scholar JACK CR ranked first with 377 citation frequency. The journal NEUROLOGY is ranked first with 943 citations.

Conclusion

In recent years, global research in the field of biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s disease has shown signs of softening, and the momentum of research has slightly diminished. However, this trend does not imply a decline in the quality of research. It is essential to enhance collaboration among countries, major research institutions, and scholars, with a particular emphasis on fostering international partnerships in the future.
Parkinson’s disease models and death signaling: what do we know until now?
Authors: Pedrão Luiz Fernando A. T. , Medeiros Pamela O. S. , Leandro Estela C. , Falquetto Barbara
Published: October 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second neurodegenerative disorder most prevalent in the world, characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the Substantia Nigra (SN). It is well known for its motor and non-motor symptoms including bradykinesia, resting tremor, psychiatric, cardiorespiratory, and other dysfunctions. Pathological apoptosis contributes to a wide variety of diseases including PD. Various insults and/or cellular phenotypes have been shown to trigger distinct signaling events leading to cell death in neurons affected by PD. The intrinsic or mitochondrial pathway, inflammatory or oxidative stress-induced extrinsic pathways are the main events associated with apoptosis in PD-related neuronal loss. Although SN is the main brain area studied so far, other brain nuclei are also affected by the disease leading to non-classical motor symptoms as well as non-motor symptoms. Among these, the respiratory symptoms are often overlooked, yet they can cause discomfort and may contribute to patients shortened lifespan after disease diagnosis. While animal and in vitro models are frequently used to investigate the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of PD in both the SN and other brain regions, these models provide only a limited understanding of the disease’s actual progression. This review offers a comprehensive overview of some of the most studied forms of cell death, including recent research on potential treatment targets for these pathways. It highlights key findings and milestones in the field, shedding light on the potential role of understanding cell death in the prevention and treatment of the PD. Therefore, unraveling the connection between these pathways and the notable pathological mechanisms observed during PD progression could enhance our comprehension of the disease’s origin and provide valuable insights into potential molecular targets for the developing therapeutic interventions.
Circadian rhythm disruption: a potential trigger in Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis
Authors: Xu Ke , Zhang Yu , Shi Yue , Zhang Yake , Zhang Chengguang , Wang Tianjiao , Lv Peizhu , Bai Yan , Wang Shun
Published: October 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn), and activation of microglia leading to neuroinflammation. Disturbances in circadian rhythm play a significant role in PD, with most non-motor symptoms associated with disruptions in circadian rhythm. These disturbances can be observed years before motor symptoms appear and are marked by the emergence of non-motor symptoms related to PD, such as rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD), restless leg syndrome (RLS), excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), depression and anxiety, changes in blood pressure, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and urinary problems. Circadian rhythm disruption precedes the onset of motor symptoms and contributes to the progression of PD. In brief, this article outlines the role of circadian rhythm disruption in triggering PD at cellular and molecular levels, as well as its clinical manifestations. It also explores how circadian rhythm research can contribute to preventing the onset and progression of PD from current and future perspectives.
Local delivery of soluble fractalkine (CX3CL1) peptide restores ribbon synapses after noise-induced cochlear synaptopathy
Authors: Manickam Vijayprakash , Maity Sibaprasad , Murali Sree Varshini , Gawande Dinesh Y. , Stothert Andrew R. , Batalkina Lyudamila , Cardona Astrid E. , Kaur Tejbeer
Published: October 2024

Cochlear ribbon synapses between sensory inner hair cells (IHCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are vulnerable to rapid and primary damage and/or loss due to noise overexposure. Such damaged ribbon synapses can repair spontaneously in mouse and guinea pig. However, the mechanisms for synaptic repair are unclear. Previously, we have demonstrated a critical role for the fractalkine signaling axis (CX3CL1-CX3CR1) in synaptic repair, wherein noise-damaged ribbon synapses are spontaneously repaired in the presence of fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1) expressed by cochlear macrophages. Here, we examined whether local administration of chemokine fractalkine ligand (CX3CL1 or FKN) in the form of a peptide is effective in restoring synapses and hearing loss after noise-induced cochlear synaptopathy (NICS). Specifically, the efficacy of different isoforms of FKN was evaluated for restoration of loss of IHC ribbon synapses and hearing after NICS. A single transtympanic injection of soluble isoform of FKN (sFKN) peptide at 1 day after synaptopathic noise trauma for 2 hours at 93 decibel sound pressure level led to significant recovery of auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds, ABR peak I amplitudes and ribbon synapses in FKN knockout mice when compared to mice injected with membrane-bound FKN peptide (mFKN). Likewise, local treatment with sFKN peptide in FKN wild type mice restored synaptopathic noise-damaged ribbon synapses and ABR peak I amplitudes. Mechanistically, FKN regulates macrophage numbers in the damaged cochlea and in the absence of macrophages, sFKN failed to restore loss of synapses and hearing after NICS. Furthermore, sFKN treatment attenuated cochlear inflammation after NICS without altering the expression of CX3CR1. Finally, injected sFKN peptide was detectable inside the cochlea for 24 h localized to the basilar membrane and spiral lamina near the sensory epithelium. These data provide a proof-of-principle that local delivery of an immune factor, sFKN is effective in restoring ribbon synapses and hearing loss after NICS in a macrophage-dependent manner and highlights the potential of sFKN as an immunotherapy for cochlear synaptopathy due to noise.