bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Faktor – Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Penggunaan Informasi Akuntansi Pada UMKM Di Bandar Lampung
Authors: Astuti Sri , Irawan Irawan , Sidik Muhammad Muhayyin
Published: November 2023

Pengembangan dan pertumbuhan UMKM merupakan salah satu motor penggerak yang krusial bagi pembangunan ekonomi. Berdasarkan pengalaman di negara-negara maju menunjukkan bahwa UMKM adalah sumber dari inovasi produksi dan teknologi, pertumbuhan jumlah wirausahawan yang kreatif dan inovatif dan penciptaan tenaga kerja terampil dan fleksibel dalam proses produksi.Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menganalisis faktor-faktor yang berpengaruh terhadap penggunaan informasi akuntansi bagi UMKM. Faktor-faktor tersebut adalah jenjang pendidikan pemilik,lama usaha,  skala usaha,dan pengetahuan pemilik tentang informasi akuntansi apakah berpengaruh terhadap penggunaan informasi akuntansi.Hasil penelitian ini sangat penting untuk para pelaku UMKM di Kota Bandar Lampung untuk lebih memahami dan memanfaatkan informasi akuntansi dalam penyusunan laporan keuangannya. Hasil penelitian ini juga dapat dijadikan dasar bagi Pemerintah Kota Bandar Lampung dalam menambahkan berbagai langkah strategis dalam memberikan pembinaan dan pendampingan UMKM dan melakukan evaluasi terhadap capaian yang selama ini sudah dilakukan dalam rangka mendukung program Pemerintah Kota untuk semakin memberdayakan UMKM.
Methodological aspects of assessment the level of industry markets concentration
Authors: Kostetska Nataliia , Liakhovych Larysa
Published: November 2023

The theoretical and methodological aspects of the assessment of industrial markets concentration level have been investigated. Features of identification of industrial markets and establishment of product, geographical and time boundaries have been considered. It has been concluded that it’s appropriate to determine the product boundaries of the industrial market based on the characteristics of the product, which the consumer perceives as useful properties for satisfaction of his personal needs. It is recommended to implement the methods that allow you to evaluate the degree of goods interchangeability for the consumer (cross elasticity of demand, the small but significant non-transitory increase in price test (the SSNIP test), and correlation of prices of goods over time) and the possibility of interchangeability on the supply side. Geographical boundaries of the industrial market are usually established on the basis of the minimum territory within which the consumer can easily satisfy his demand for a certain product in normal conditions. Time limits of the market cover the period during which the structure of the market, the ratio of demand and supply on it does not change significantly. It has been noted that the analysis of the industrial market with the help of concentration indicators makes it possible to assess the strength of competition and the monopolization level. It also has been mentioned about the impact of the industrial market structure on the concentration level which depends on the number of operating enterprises and their size. It has been emphasized that the very sales volumes are taken into account in the investigation of the industrial market structure but not the amount of goods production as it is done during the industry analysis. It has been recommended to calculate the following indicators of the industrial market concentration level: concentration ratio, four-firm concentration ratio, Herfindahl-Hirschman index, relative concentration ratio, Hall-Tideman index (Rosenbluth index), etc. The need for calculation the relative and absolute indicators of concentration in the process of industrial markets analysis has been mentioned. It has been found out that some difficulties with access to information on the sales volume of goods by all business entities operating in the industrial market may arise during data collection for the calculation of the mentioned indicators. It has been recommended to calculate several concentration indicators at the same time in order to obtain the most accurate and objective results of the analysis
Analysis of banking and currency risks using IT
Authors: Dubynyak Taras , Manziy Oleksandra , Senyk Andriy , Minziuk Nataliia , Senyk Yuliya
Published: November 2023

The work includes a review and analysis of modern leading specialized software products that are used to identify, analyze and manage risks in various areas. As an alternative, the project of own information system for analysis, forecasting and effective management of banking risks is proposed. To receive input data, the system uses a simple and easy free service for current and historical currency exchange rates and cryptocurrency rates. Currency data comes from financial data providers and banks, including the European Central Bank. The main methods used in the analysis are visualization, calculation of statistics and forecasting. The use of visualization allows you to present information in an easy-to-understand form, summarize statistical and analytical data concisely and succinctly. To forecast the main movement trends, it is proposed to use market indicators RSI, Bollinger Bands and Japanese candles, as well as machine learning using the algorithm of singular spectral analysis. Using the created product, an analysis of the shares of well-known global banks with subsidiaries in Ukraine was carried out. Trends in the exchange rates of various currencies, such as the pound sterling, the Japanese yen, the Chinese yuan, the dollar, the euro, and the hryvnia, were also analyzed. The proposed information system is publicly available and easy to use. The described methods of analysis enable an unqualified user to draw conclusions on the basis of the obtained visualizations regarding the choice of the optimal reliable bank, management of the risk of devaluation of hryvnia savings, and minimization of losses from money conversion. The results show that in the case of a small set of assets and, accordingly, restrictions on the diversification of capital investments, the use of such information systems is effective and profitable. The presented methodology also demonstrates that an investor, having basic knowledge of information and communication technologies using modern Python, Java or C# programming languages, can effectively use them to create specialized systems for data analysis, visualization and forecasting.
Improvement of innovation and investment activities in the post-war reconstruction period of Ukraine: organizational and legal aspects
Authors: Levytskyi Vitalii , Radynskiy Serghiy
Published: November 2023

The article examines the ways of improving innovation and investment activities during the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine. The legislative framework for ensuring the state policy of development of investment and innovation potential was considered and analyzed. The innovation and investment system of Ukraine is analyzed and the ways of improving the regulatory and legal framework to ensure its development are indicated. The innovation and investment foundations for the recovery and development of countries after armed conflicts have been identified. Legal risks of socio-economic development of Ukraine in wartime and post-war recovery period are indicated. The possibilities of the state in supporting business in the conditions of war and post-war reconstruction are studied. The necessary structural reforms capable of changing Ukraine after the end of the war are characterized, because it is structural reforms that strengthen the market foundations of the functioning of the economy, change the worldview of the population and business, and form new value orientations. Approaches have been developed to increase the competitiveness of the Ukrainian economy by introducing innovations and attracting investments. The role of investments and innovations in the banking sphere and in industry is revealed, while the significant importance of the development of innovative financial management by economic entities in the context of the implementation of the European integration strategy of Ukraine is indicated. The legal regulation of investment and innovation activity in the conditions of martial law and post-war reconstruction in order to ensure the sustainable development of the state is analyzed. It was determined that the modernization of the Ukrainian post-war economy on the basis of innovation and investment development should be ensured by the comprehensive application of all possible levers of economic policy and prevent conflicts between their effects and the solution of current and strategic tasks. Ways of solving and solving the problems of improving the regulatory and legal framework to ensure the development of the innovation and investment system of Ukraine are proposed. The need for consistent and systematic implementation of functional principles of state management of innovation and investment activities was noted.
“NASH-Worldwide the Commonest Aetiology of Liver Cirrhosis”- a Review Article
Authors: Jannat Syeda Nur E , Islam M M Shahin Ul , Haque Mohammad Majharul , Imam Iftekhar , Ahmed Dewan Saifuddin
Published: November 2023

NAFLD is defined by the presence of fat in the liver (>5% hepatocytes show macrovesicular steatosis) without evidence of other causes of fat accumulation in the liver such as alcohol use (< 20 g/d for women and <30 g/d for men), hepatitis C or certain medications. The spectrum of disease includes NAFL, NASH, cirrhosis and HCC. Disease progression depends on stages of fibrosis. Patients are usually referred with incidentally noted hepatic steatosis on imaging or elevated liver enzymes. Although liver biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis but worldwide it’s much under practiced and several non invasive tests are currently recommended to identify at risk NASH (≥ stage 2 fibrosis) or advance fibrosis who are at highest risk of developing to cirrhosis. Screening in high-risk populations - T2DM, obesity with metabolic complications, a family history of cirrhosis or significant alcohol use allows for interventions that may prevent future hepatic complications. Currently, about 38% of the global population has a diagnosis of NAFLD. The incidence of hepatic decompensation, HCC and death related to NASH cirrhosis are expected to increase 2-to 3-fold by 2030. NASH- cirrhosis is already the leading indication of liver transplantation worldwide. Currently no specific treatments is licensed for NASH, lifestyle modification and exercise, primarily weight loss is the key to management. The rising clinical and economic burden of NAFLD has highlighted the need for a streamlined approach to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease that has been discussed in this narrative review.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Med. Coll. J. 2023;2(2):112-126.
Lingkungan Pengendapan Formasi Eemoiko Daerah Palangga Selatan, Kabupaten Konawe Selatan, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara
Authors: - Hasria , La Ode Muhamad Ahdiarno  , Masri  , Muliddin  , Muhammad Arba Azzaman
Published: November 2023

Lokasi penelitian terhadap Formasi Eemoiko Daerah Palangga Selatan Kabupaten Konawe Selatan. Formasi Eemoiko disusun oleh batugamping kalkarenit, batugamping koral, batupasir dan napal. Tujuan pada penelitian ini mengetahui sebaran batuan sedimen pada daerah penelitian dan menentukan lingkungan pengendapan berdasarkan tekstur, struktur serta stratigrafinya. Metode analisis yang digunakan untuk menentukan lingkungan pengendapan yaitu dengan melakukan analisis mikrofosil dan pengukuran penampang stratigrafi. Berdasarkan hasil analisis mikrofosil pada batugamping menunjukkan lingkungan pengendapan pada zona back-reef lagoon lebih tepatnya pada zona inner lagoon sedangkan berdasarkan tekstur dan struktur pada batupasir menunjukkan lingkungan pengendapan channel sungai.
Katakunci: Lingkungan Pengendapan, Formasi Eemoiko, Palangga Selatan.
The Politicization of Immigration in Parliaments: Evidence From German State Legislative Sessions
Authors: May Marius D.
Published: November 2023

This article makes two new contributions to the literature on the politicization of immigration. First, it examines whether politicians politicize immigration in parliaments. Second, the two dimensions of politicization, salience and political polarization, are measured qualitatively. Topic modeling is used to analyze speeches held by each right-wing AfD legislators and Green legislators in three state parliaments during the peek of the so-called “refugee crisis” in Germany. The topic models show that, in contrast to Green legislators, AfD legislators address various other issues in speeches dealing with immigration. This is ev- idence that only AfD legislators attempt to increase the salience of immigration. Moreover, AfD legislators frame immigrants as a threat, while Green legislators frame immigrants as victims. This is evidence of political polarization. Thus, qualitative measures for salience and polarization suggest that the AfD politicized the issue immigration in state parliaments.
Trophic ecology and coastal niche partitioning of two sympatric shark species in the Azores (mid-Atlantic)
Authors: Priester CR , Dierking J , Hansen T , Abecasis D , Fontes JM , Afonso P
Published: November 2023

The exploitation of marine resources has caused drastic declines of many large predatory fishes. Amongst these, sharks are of major conservation concern due to their high vulnerability to overfishing and their ecological role as top predators. The 2 protected and endangered shark species tope Galeorhinus galeus and smooth hammerhead Sphyrna zygaena use overlapping coastal areas around the globe as essential fish habitats, but data to assess their trophic ecology and niche partitioning are scarce. We provide the first comparative assessment of the trophic ecology, ontogenetic shifts, and niche partitioning of the co-occurring tope and juvenile smooth hammerhead around the Azores Islands, mid-north Atlantic, based on δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S (CNS) stable isotope analysis of muscle tissue of the sharks and their putative prey species. Overall, isotopic niches of both species indicated a reliance on similar resources throughout the sampled sizes (tope: 35-190; smooth hammerhead 54-159 cm total length), with significant ontogenetic shifts. Topes displayed a gradual shift to higher trophic levels and a more generalist diet with increasing size (increasing δ15N values and isotopic niche volumes, respectively), whereas smooth hammerhead diet shifted towards prey with lower δ34S at a constant trophic level and a more specialized diet than tope of comparable body size (decreasing δ34S and constant δ15N and δ13C values, respectively). Our results indicate contrasting ontogenetic shifts in δ13C and δ34S along with pronounced differences between niche overlap of life stages pointing to intra- and interspecific niche partitioning of habitat and prey.
Easy-Care Finishing of Cotton Fiber with DMDHEU - Crosslinking Agent for High Crease Recovery Angle and Low Washing Shrinkage Properties
Authors: Hassen Yimer
Published: November 2023

Easy care finishing of textile materials is one of textile chemical finishing processes to make cellulosic textile materials crease free and dimensionally stable in its service life or during wear. Woven and knitted cellulosic textile fabrics are totally submerged in DMDHEU crosslinking agent with the concentration of 35 – 60 g/l and 30 – 50 g/l for woven and knitted fabrics respectively. In this treatment magnesium chloride is used as catalyst. Then, drying at 110 °C and curing at 150 °C for 3 min. This study shows the relationship between different level of concentrations of DMDHEU and catalysts on different textile properties such as CRA, strength and abrasion loss, washing shrinkage and stiffness. IR analysis also used in the research work. In this finding, in general, crease recovery angle - CRA, abrasion loss, stiffness increases as the concentration of DMDHEU and the catalyst increases whereas air permeability and water capillary rise, washing shrinkage decreases in woven cotton fabric. On the other hand, CRA, abrasion loss and air permeability as the concentration of DMDHEU and the catalyst increases whereas the wales and course washing resistance and water capillary rise diminished in knitted fabric.
Electricity Generation Cost Optimization Based on Lagrange Function and Local Search
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Van
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a method based on the Lagrange optimization function and local search technique for minimizing the total cost of two power systems. The first system comprises ten multiple fuel thermal units (MFTUs) while the second system combines the first system with renewable energies, solar and wind power. The proposed method has advantages over its conventional method without a local search technique, called the conventional Lagrange function-based method (CLM), such as having the same parameters and exploiting other search spaces after getting convergence. The proposed method is more effective than CLM for the first system with the last case of load demand. In addition, the proposed method has better costs than previous algorithms, such as the Hierarchical numerical method (HNUM), Hopfield neural network, Adaptive Hopfield neural networks (AHNN) and modified Lagrange neural network (MLANN). Especially, the proposed method can find smaller costs than them, up to $6.78, corresponding to 1.4% for Case 1, and up to $2.43, corresponding to 0.4% for Case 4. Only the proposed method is tested on the second test system. The simulation results indicate that the method is very efficient for the problem with solar and wind energies and multiple fuel thermal units.
Quantum dark energy in a seven-dimensional universe
Authors: Kesanasetty Sasidhar
Published: November 2023

This paper explains the dark energy and acceleration of the universe by quantizing the space in hidden dimensions, which provides the basis and background for the gravitational force through the curvature of space-time. Space-time is considered to be made of a four-dimensional elastic grid in a seven-dimensional universe in which matter also expands along with the universe. Each cube of the grid is considered a quantum of hidden three-dimensional space of Planck volume containing Planck charge, which makes the universe seven-dimensional. The dark energy is explained by the electrostatic repulsion between the Planck charges in each quantum of the hidden space. Mathematically, this electrostatic repulsion is related to the Hubble constant to explain the accelerated expansion, dark energy, and increase in the cosmological potential energy of matter.
Computation of Mass-Energy Equation from Lorentz Factor and Kinetic Energy
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: November 2023

The relativistic momentum is concerned with the motion of a body whose velocity approaches the speed of light. Also, the velocity of a moving object with mass is less than the speed of light because light has no mass and the speed of light is the upper limit for the speeds of all objects with mass in the universe. In this article, Annamalai’s mass-energy equation is derived using the Lorentz factor and the kinetic energy of classical mechanics.
Criterion for the Riemann Hypothesis
Authors: Vega Frank
Published: November 2023

Let $\Psi(n) = n \cdot \prod_{q \mid n} \left(1 + \frac{1}{q} \right)$ denote the Dedekind $\Psi$ function where $q \mid n$ means the prime $q$ divides $n$. Define, for $n \geq 3$; the ratio $R(n) = \frac{\Psi(n)}{n \cdot \log \log n}$ where $\log$ is the natural logarithm. Let $M_{x} = \prod_{q \leq x} q$ be the product extending over all prime numbers $q$ that are less than or equal to $x$. The Riemann hypothesis is the assertion that all non-trivial zeros are complex numbers with real part $\frac{1}{2}$. It is considered by many to be the most important unsolved problem in pure mathematics. We state that if the Riemann hypothesis is false, then there exist infinitely natural numbers $x$ such that the inequality $R(M_{x}) < \frac{e^{\gamma}}{\zeta(2)}$ holds, where $\gamma \approx 0.57721$ is the Euler-Mascheroni constant and $\zeta(x)$ is the Riemann zeta function. In this note, using our criterion, we prove that the Riemann hypothesis is true.
Non trivial zeros of the Zeta function using the differential equations
Authors: OUKIL Walid
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we investigate a relation between the differential equations and the non trivial zeros of the Zeta function.
One-dimensional modeling of heterogeneous catalytic chemical looping steam methane reforming in an adiabatic packed bed reactor
Authors: Qayyum Haris , Cheema Izzat Iqbal , Abdullah Mohsin , Amin Muhammad , Khan Imtiaz Afzal , Lee Eui-Jong , Lee Kang Hoon
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen production via chemical looping steam methane reforming (CL-SMR) is among the most promising current technologies. This work presents the development in gPROMS Model Builder 4.1.0® of a 1D model of an adiabatic packed bed reactor used for chemical looping reforming (CLR). The catalyst used for this process was 18 wt. % NiO with the support of Al2O3. A brief thermodynamic analysis using Chemical Equilibrium Application (CEA) was carried out to identify the optimum operating conditions. The model was simulated for 10 complete CL-SMR cycles. The effects of variations in temperature, pressure, gas mass velocity, nickel oxide concentration, reactor length, and particle diameter were studied to investigate the performance of the CL-SMR process under these variations. A parametric analysis was carried out for different ranges of conditions: temperatures from 600 to 1,000 K, pressure from 1 to 5 bar, gas mass velocity between 0.5 and 0.9 kg·m−2 s−1, nickel oxide concentration values between 0.1 and 1 mol·m−3, particle diameters between 0.7 and 1 mm, and fuel reactor (FR) lengths between 0.5 and 1.5 m. At the optimum temperature (950 K), pressure (1 bar), and steam-to-carbon molar ratio (3/1), with an increase in particle diameter from 0.7 to 1 mm, an 18% decrease in methane conversion and a 9.5% increase in hydrogen yield were observed. Similarly, with an increase in FR length from 0.5 m to 1.5 m, a delay in the temperature drop was observed.
Effects of dietary traditional Chinese medicine residues on growth performance, intestinal health and gut microbiota compositions in weaned piglets
Authors: Sun Weiguang , Chen Zhong , Huang Zhiyun , Wan Anfeng , Zhou Miao , Gao Jing
Published: November 2023

Weaning stress can induce diarrhea, intestinal damage and flora disorder of piglets, leading to slow growth and even death of piglets. Traditional Chinese medicine residue contains a variety of active ingredients and nutrients, and its resource utilization has always been a headache. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of traditional Chinese medicine residues (Xiasangju, composed of prunellae spica, mulberry leaves, and chrysanthemum indici flos) on growth performance, diarrhea, immune function, and intestinal health in weaned piglets. Forty-eight healthy Duroc× Landrace × Yorkshire castrated males weaned aged 21 days with similar body conditions were randomly divided into 6 groups with eight replicates of one piglet. The control group was fed a basal diet, the antibiotic control group was supplemented with 75 mg/kg chlortetracycline, and the residue treatment groups were supplemented with 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0% and 4.0% Xiasangju residues. The results showed that dietary Xiasangju residues significantly reduced the average daily feed intake, but reduced the diarrhea score (P < 0.05). The 1.0% and 2.0% Xiasangju residues significantly increased the serum IgM content of piglets, and the 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0% and 4.0% Xiasangju residues significantly increased the serum IgG content, while the 1.0%, 2.0% and 4.0% Xiasangju residues significantly increased the sIgA content of ileal contents (P < 0.05). Dietary Xiasangju residues significantly increased the villus height and the number of villus goblet cells in the jejunum and ileum, and significantly decreased the crypt depth (P<0.05). The relative mRNA expression of IL-10 in the ileum was significantly increased in the 1% and 2% Xiasangju residues supplemented groups (P < 0.05), while IL-1β in the ileum was downregulated (P < 0.05). Xiasangju residues improved the gut tight barrier, as evidenced by the enhanced expression of Occludin and ZO-1 in the jejunum and ileum. The diets with 1% Xiasangju residues significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus johnsonii, and 2% and 4% Xiasangju residues significantly increased the relative abundance of Weissella jogaeotgali (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 0.5%, 1.0%, 2% and 4% with Xiasangju residues significantly decreased the relative abundance of Escherichia coli and Treponema porcinum (P < 0.05). In summary, dietary supplementation with Xiasangju residues improves intestinal health and gut microbiota in weaned piglets.
DegS protease regulates antioxidant capacity and adaptability to oxidative stress environment in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Wang Kaiying , Lu Huifang , Zou Mei , Wang Guangli , Zhao Jiajun , Huang Xiaoyu , Ren Fangyu , Hu Huaqin , Huang Jian , Min Xun
Published: November 2023

Adaptation to oxidative stress is critical for survival of Vibrio cholerae in aquatic ecosystems and hosts. DegS activates the σE envelope stress response. We have previously revealed that DegS may be involved in regulating the oxidative stress response. In this study, we demonstrated that deletion of the degS gene attenuates the antioxidant capacity of V. cholerae. In addition, our results further revealed that the regulation of antioxidant capacity by DegS in V. cholerae could involve the cAMP-CRP complex, which regulates rpoS. XthA is an exonuclease that repairs oxidatively damaged cells and affects the bacterial antioxidant capacity. qRT-PCR showed that DegS, σE, cAMP, CRP, and RpoS positively regulate xthA gene transcription. XthA overexpression partially compensates for antioxidant deficiency in the degS mutant. These results suggest that DegS affects the antioxidant capacity of V.cholerae by regulating xthA expression via the cAMP-CRP-RpoS pathway. In a mouse intestinal colonization experiment, our data showed that V.cholerae degS, rpoE, and rpoS gene deletions were associated with significantly reduced resistance to oxidative stress and the ability to colonize the mouse intestine. In conclusion, these findings provide new insights into the regulation of antioxidant activity by V.cholerae DegS.
Sex- and age-related differences in the inflammatory properties of cardiac fibroblasts: impact on the cardiosplenic axis and cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Pappritz Kathleen , Puhl Sarah-Lena , Matz Isabel , Brauer Erik , Shia Yi Xuan , El-Shafeey Muhammad , Koch Suzanne E. , Miteva Kapka , Mucha Christin , Duda Georg N. , Petersen Ansgar , Steffens Sabine , Tschöpe Carsten , Van Linthout Sophie
Published: November 2023

Background

Age and sex are prominent risk factors for heart failure and determinants of structural and functional changes of the heart. Cardiac fibroblasts (cFB) are beyond their task as extracellular matrix-producing cells further recognized as inflammation-supporting cells. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of sex and age on the inflammatory potential of cFB and its impact on the cardiosplenic axis and cardiac fibrosis.

Materials

Left ventricles (LV) of 3- and 12-months old male and female C57BL/6J mice were harvested for immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and cFB outgrowth culture and the spleen for flow cytometry. LV-derived cFB and respective supernatants were characterized.

Results

LV-derived cFB from 3-months old male mice exhibited a higher inflammatory capacity, as indicated by a higher gene expression of CC-chemokine ligand (CCL) 2, and CCL7 compared to cFB derived from 3-months old female mice. The resulting higher CCL2/chemokine C-X3-C motif ligand (Cx3CL1) and CCL7/Cx3CL1 protein ratio in cell culture supernatants of 3-months old male vs. female cFB was reflected by a higher migration of Ly6Chigh monocytes towards supernatant from 3-months old male vs. female cFB. In vivo a lower ratio of splenic pro-inflammatory Ly6Chigh to anti-inflammatory Ly6Clow monocytes was found in 3-months old male vs. female mice, suggesting a higher attraction of Ly6Chigh compared to Ly6Clow monocytes towards the heart in male vs. female mice. In agreement, the percentage of pro-inflammatory CD68+ CD206− macrophages was higher in the LV of male vs. female mice at this age, whereas the percentage of anti-inflammatory CD68+ CD206+ macrophages was higher in the LV of 3-months old female mice compared to age-matched male animals. In parallel, the percentage of splenic TGF-β+ cells was higher in both 3- and 12-months old female vs. male mice, as further reflected by the higher pro-fibrotic potential of female vs. male splenocytes at both ages. In addition, female mice displayed a higher total LV collagen content compared to age-matched male mice, whereby collagen content of female cFB was higher compared to male cFB at the age of 12-months.

Conclusion

Age- and sex-dependent differences in cardiac fibrosis and inflammation are related to age- and sex-dependent variations in the inflammatory properties of cardiac fibroblasts.
Impact of non-gated computed tomography on the timing of invasive strategy of patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Miyagawa Masatsugu , Arai Riku , Takahashi Kurara , Nakajima Yuki , Migita Shohei , Mizobuchi Saki , Tanaka Yudai , Fukumoto Katsunori , Morikawa Tomoyuki , Mineki Takashi , Kojima Keisuke , Murata Nobuhiro , Sudo Mitsumasa , Okumura Yasuo
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to examine the clinical role of non-gated computed tomography (CT) in ruling out fatal chest pain in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS), with a focus on the time of arrival at the hospital to coronary angiography (CAG) and peak creatine kinase (CK) levels.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 196 NSTE-ACS patients who were admitted with urgently diagnosed NSTE-ACS and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention between March 2019 and October 2022. The patients were divided into three groups, namely, non-CT group, CT and defect− group, and CT and defect+ group, based on whether they underwent a CT scan and the presence or absence of perfusion defects on the CT image.

Results

After the initial admission for NSTE-ACS, 40 patients (20.4%) underwent non-gated CT prior to CAG. Among these 40 patients, 27 had a perfusion defect on the CT scan. The incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy was not different among the three groups. The CT and defect+ group had a shorter arrival-to-CAG time than that of the non-CT group. In NSTE-ACS patients with elevated CK levels, the CT and defect+ group had lower peak CK levels than those in the non-CT group.

Conclusion

NSTE-ACS patients with perfusion defects on non-gated CT had a shorter time from arrival to CAG, which might be associated with a lower peak CK. Non-gated CT might be useful for early diagnosis and early revascularization in the clinical setting of NSTE-ACS.
Psychosocial and environmental risk factors of obesity and hypertension in children and adolescents—a literature overview
Authors: Wójcik Małgorzata , Alvarez-Pitti Julio , Kozioł-Kozakowska Agnieszka , Brzeziński Michał , Gabbianelli Rosita , Herceg-Čavrak Vesna , Wühl Elke , Lucas Ignacio , Radovanović Dragan , Melk Anette , González Lopez-Valcarcel Beatriz , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Mazur Artur , Lurbe Empar , Borghi Claudio , Drożdż Dorota
Published: November 2023

Childhood obesity has become a worldwide epidemic in the 21st century. Its treatment is challenging and often ineffective, among others due to complex, often not obvious causes. Awareness of the existence and meaning of psychosocial and environmental risk factors seems to be an essential element in the prevention and treatment of obesity and its complications, especially arterial hypertension. In this review, we will discuss the role of that risk factors linking obesity and increased cardiovascular disorders including the role of nutritional factors (including the role of unhealthy diet, inadequate hydration), unhealthy behaviors (e.g. smoking, alcohol and drugs, sedentary behavior, low physical activity, disrupted circadian rhythms, sleep disorders, screen exposure), unfavorable social factors (such as dysfunctional family, bullying, chronic stress, mood disorders, depression, urbanization, noise, and environmental pollution), and finally differences in cardiovascular risk in girls and boys.
Intramural hematoma in the proximal sealing zone of the thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair: frequency and safety in acute and subacute type B dissections
Authors: Lescan Mario , Mustafi Migdat , Hahn Julia , Schlensak Christian , Andic Mateja
Published: November 2023

Introduction

To assess the outcomes after thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) in the presence of intramural hematoma (IMH) in the proximal sealing zone.

Material and methods

Patient data were retrospectively extracted from the hospital records of patients treated with TEVAR for acute and chronic aortic dissection type B in one single center. The initial, preoperative, first postoperative, and last follow-up CT scans were evaluated in the aortic 3D multiplanar reformats and the centerline regarding IMH presence in the proximal sealing zone, anatomical preconditions, and the morphological TEVAR complications including migration and bird-beak. Groups with (IMH) and without IMH (no-IMH) were compared.

Results

Overall, 84 patients (IMH:42; no-IMH:42) were treated at the age of 63(55; 72) years, of whom 23/84 (27%), 34/84 (40%), and 27/84 (32%) were in the hyperacute, acute and subacute dissection phases, respectively. The bovine arch was found in 10/84(12%) and the type III arch was most common (43/84;51%). IMH maximum extent was found in zones 0, 1, 2, and 3 in 14/84 (17%), 17/84 (20%), 18/84 (21%), and 6/84 (7%), respectively. Sealing was achieved in zone II in 71/84 (85%) and LSA was revascularized in 66/84 (79%) of the overall cohort. Early mortality and paraplegia were 2/84 (2%) each; stroke rate was 3/84 (4%). During the 22 months median follow-up (22;4;43) no RTAD was observed. Migration ≥10 mm (IMH: 11/82; no-IMH: 10/82; P = 1.0) and bird-beaks (IMH: 10/82; no-IMH: 12/82; P = 0.8036) were comparable in both groups and accompanied by a low aorta related mortality (1/82) in both groups.

Conclusion

The presence of the IMH in the proximal TEVAR sealing zone is frequent and may not be relevant for the occurrence of the RTAD, stent-graft migration, or bird-beak formation.
Case Report: Flurbiprofen-induced Type I Kounis syndrome
Authors: Tang Chao , Chen Yuqi , Gu Xiaosong
Published: November 2023

Background

Kounis syndrome is a specific type of acute coronary syndrome caused by allergic or hypersensitivity response. Clinical knowledge about this syndrome is insufficient. We report a case in which intravenous administration of flurbiprofen resulted in Type I Kounis syndrome.

Case summary

A 60-year-old female patient with no history of coronary artery disease developed limb erythema, hypotension, and chest tightness after receiving intravenous flurbiprofen. Electrocardiogram showed ST segment elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. Emergency coronary angiography revealed no significant stenosis or thrombus in the coronary arteries. Subsequent echocardiography showed no apparent abnormalities. Levels of troponin T were elevated. The diagnosis was flurbiprofen-induced Type I Kounis syndrome, presenting as acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Conclusions

Patients with Kounis syndrome can exhibit severe clinical symptoms, and their condition may even be life-threatening. It is important for clinicians to have a thorough understanding of this syndrome in order to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
Surgical treatment of Behcet's disease with severe aortic regurgitation
Authors: Tang Chuanbin , Song Yu , Huang Xiaofan , Li Yuanming , Tuerxun Yisilamujiang , Hu Xingjian , Li Huadong , Wu Long
Published: November 2023

Behcet's disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory disease that is characterized by oral aphthosis, genital aphthosis, ocular lesions, and cutaneous lesions. Although BD rarely affects the cardiovascular system, its symptoms can be shown as aortic regurgitation (AR), which requires surgical intervention. Due to the special pathogenesis of BD, a low preoperative diagnosis rate and a high incidence of serious complications, such as perivalvular leakage, valve detachment, and pseudoaneurysm after prosthetic valve replacement, surgical treatment of BD with severe AR has a poor prognosis. In recent years, new surgical strategies have been developed to improve treatment efficacy for this disease. This article reviews and summarizes the evolution of surgical techniques for BD with AR and aims to provide a reference for optimizing surgical strategies, improving perioperative management, and assisting prognosis in patients suffering from BD with severe AR.
Total Astragalus saponins can reverse type 2 diabetes mellitus-related intestinal dysbiosis and hepatic insulin resistance in vivo
Authors: Ma Leilei , La Xiaojin , Zhang Biwei , Xu Wenxuan , Tian Chunyu , Fu Qianru , Wang Meng , Wu Chenxi , Chen Zhen , Chang Hong , Li Ji-an
Published: November 2023

Objective

Intestinal flora homeostasis in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was evaluated to explore the effects of total Astragalus saponins (TAS) on hepatic insulin resistance (IR).

Methods

Six-week-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed high-fat and high-sugar diet for 4 weeks and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin to induce T2DM, and they were then randomly divided into control, model, metformin, and TAS groups. Stool, serum, colon, and liver samples were collected after 8 weeks of drug administration for relevant analyses.

Results

TAS reduced fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, area under the curve of oral glucose tolerance test, glycated serum protein, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in T2DM rats but increased insulin, C-peptide, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Moreover, TAS improved the morphology and structure of liver and colon tissues and improved the composition of the intestinal microbiome and bacterial community structure at different taxonomic levels. In addition, TAS increased the protein expression of hepatic IRS-1, PI3K, PDK1, and p-AKT and decreased the protein expression of p-GSK-3β. Meanwhile, TAS increased the mRNA expression of liver PDK1, PI3K, and GS and decreased the mRNA expression of GSK-3β.

Conclusion

TAS can ameliorate T2DM-related abnormal glucose and blood lipid metabolism, intestinal dysbiosis, and IR.
The distribution and metabolism of hexabromocyclododecane isomers varies in the tissues of Nibea albiflora
Authors: Song Suping , Sun Xiumei , Cheng Xin , Peng Xijian , Hao Qing , Hu Hongmei , Zhu Jian , Li Tiejun , Guo Yuanming
Published: November 2023

Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs), as brominated flame retardants, have increasingly drawn concern due to their detection in various marine organisms in recent years. The present test investigated the selective accumulation, depuration, and bioisomerization of HBCDs in different tissues and organs of Nibea albiflora, as well as the genetic metabolic behavior of HBCDs between parents and offspring. In a semi-static water environment, N. albiflora were exposed to individual HBCD diastereoisomers (α-HBCD, β-HBCD, or γ-HBCD) at a concentration of 0.4 μg/L for bioaccumulation, followed by clean food for depuration. During the exposure period, the highest concentrations of these HBCDs were observed in the intestine and gill of N. albiflora. α-HBCD was detected in all exposure groups, suggesting that both β-HBCD and γ-HBCD could be bioisomerized to α-HBCD in N. albiflora. In addition, there was no bioisomerization of α-HBCD to either β-HBCD or γ-HBCD, and there was no bioisomerization between β-HBCD and γ-HBCD. The half-lives (t1/2) were variable among different diastereoisomers, following an order of α-HBCD > γ-HBCD > β-HBCD. The most rapid depuration rate of HBCDs was discovered in the liver while muscle showed the least. Additionally, prior to spawning, the parent fish were exposed to contaminated feed (silkworms sprayed with 200 μL of a 30 μg/mL HBCD solution) for 6 days. By comparing the HBCDs concentrations in the maternal gonad, fertilized eggs, hatching eggs, larvae, and juveniles, it was determined that the maternal transfer coefficients for HBCDs were approximately 1, indicating dynamic equilibrium of HBCDs throughout the process from maternal tissue to progeny development. Differences in HBCDs pattern between organs observed in the experiment support a proposal of an organ-specific diastereomer accumulation.
Exploring causal correlations between inflammatory cytokines and ankylosing spondylitis: a bidirectional mendelian-randomization study
Authors: Fang Peng , Liu Xiaozhou , Qiu Yang , Wang Yang , Wang Dongsheng , Zhao Jianning , Ding Hao , Bao Nirong
Published: November 2023

Background

The impact of inflammatory factors on the development of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is widely recognized, but the exact causal relationship remains unclear.

Methods

The bidirectional mendelian-randomization study utilized genetic data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 186 AS cases and 456,162 controls of European ancestry. Inflammatory cytokines were obtained from a GWAS summary of 8,293 healthy participants. Causal associations were primarily investigated using the inverse variance-weighted method, supplemented by MR Egger, weighted median and weighted mode analyses. Heterogeneity in the results was assessed using the Cochrane Q test. Horizontal pleiotropy was evaluated through the MR-Egger intercept test and the MR pleiotropy residual sum and outliers (MR-PRESSO) test. Sensitivity analysis was conducted through leave-one-out analysis.

Results

The results suggest a genetically predicted potential association between beta-nerve growth factor (βNGF), Interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), and TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) with the risk of AS (OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.13-4.16; OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18-0.95,; OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.02-2.13).Additionally, Interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70), Interleukin-17 (IL-17), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-4 (IL-4), Stromal-cell-derived factor 1 alpha (SDF−1α), Macrophage inflammatory protein 1β (MIP1β), Monocyte chemoattractant protein-3 (MCP-3), Platelet-derived growth factor bb (PDGFbb), Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF), Fibroblast growth factor basic (bFGF), TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), and Interferon-gamma (IFN -γ) are suggested as consequences of AS in genetically prediction.No evidence of horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity between the genetic variants was found (P>0.05), and a leave-one-out test confirmed the stability and robustness of this association.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that βNGF, IL-1β, and TRAIL may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AS. Additionally, AS may impact the expression of cytokines such as IL-12p70, IL-17, IL-6, IL-4, SDF−1α, MIP1β, MCP-3, PDGFbb,GCSF, bFGF,TRAIL,and IFN-γ. Further investigations are warranted to determine whether these biomarkers can be utilized for the prevention or treatment of AS.
Identification of omega-3 oxylipins in human milk-derived extracellular vesicles with pro-resolutive actions in gastrointestinal inflammation
Authors: Gómez-Ferrer Marta , Amaro-Prellezo Elena , Albiach-Delgado Abel , Ten-Domenech Isabel , Kuligowski Julia , Sepúlveda Pilar
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Premature infants (PIs) are at risk of suffering necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and infants consuming human milk (HM) show a lower incidence than infants receiving formula. The composition of HM has been studied in depth, but the lipid content of HM-derived small extracellular vesicles (HM sEVs) remains unexplored. Identifying these molecules and their biological effects has potential for the treatment of intestinal disorders in PIs and could contribute to the development of HM-based fortified formulas.

Methods

We isolated HM sEVs from HM samples and analyzed their oxylipin content using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, which revealed the presence of anti-inflammatory oxylipins. We then examined the efficacy of a mixture of these oxylipins in combating inflammation and fibrosis, in vitro and in a murine model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Results

HM-related sEVs contained higher concentrations of oxylipins derived from docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Three anti-inflammatory oxylipins, 14-HDHA, 17-HDHA, and 19,20-DiHDPA (ω3 OXLP), demonstrated similar efficacy to HM sEVs in preventing cell injury, inducing re-epithelialization, mitigating fibrosis, and modulating immune responses. Both ω3 OXLP and HM sEVs effectively reduced inflammation in IBD-model mice, preventing colon shortening, infiltration of inflammatory cells and tissue fibrosis.

Discussion

Incorporating this unique cocktail of oxylipins into fortified milk formulas might reduce the risk of NEC in PIs and also provide immunological and neurodevelopmental support.
Prevalence of serum MOG antibody and AQP4 antibody in optic neuritis after SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Sun Chuan-bin
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the prevalence of serum myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab) and aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab) in optic neuritis (ON) patients after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection by cell-based indirect immunofluorescence assay (CBA).

Methods

In this prospective case series study, 35 patients clinically diagnosed as ON and laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection from 8 December 2022 to 8 February 2023 were included. All patients’ clinical and laboratory data were collected and analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the 35 patients (46 eyes) was 38.2 years (ranging from 6 to 69 years), and 17 cases were female patients. Thirty-three and two cases showed positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA test results before or shortly after ON onset, respectively. ON occurred unilaterally in 24 cases and bilaterally in 11 cases. Ophthalmic examination revealed swollen optic disc in 37 eyes, normal optic disc in 6 eyes, and temporally or wholly paled optic disc in 3 eyes. CBA revealed seropositive MOG-Ab in 10 cases and AQP4-Ab in 2 cases, respectively, of which 2 AQP4-Ab-seropositive cases and 1 MOG-Ab-seropositive case had a past medical history of ON. Most ON patients showed a rapid and dramatic response to pulse steroid therapy. The median of BCVA at the onset and at the last follow-up was 20/500 (ranging from light perception to 20/20) and 20/67 (ranging from counting fingers to 20/20), respectively.

Conclusion

Serum MOG-Ab and AQP4-Ab were detected in 28.6% (10/35) and 5.7% (2/35) ON cases after SARS-CoV-2 infection. SARS-CoV-2 infection may trigger an onset or a relapse of ON, as well as the production of MOG-Ab.