bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pangenome and genomic signatures linked to the dominance of the lineage-4 of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from extrapulmonary tuberculosis patients in western Ethiopia
Authors: Chekesa Basha , Singh Harinder , Gonzalez-Juarbe Norberto , Vashee Sanjay , Wiscovitch-Russo Rosana , Dupont Christopher L. , Girma Musse , Kerro Oudessa , Gumi Balako , Ameni Gobena
Published: July 2024

Background

The lineage 4 (L4) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is not only globally prevalent but also locally dominant, surpassing other lineages, with lineage 2 (L2) following in prevalence. Despite its widespread occurrence, factors influencing the expansion of L4 and its sub-lineages remain poorly understood both at local and global levels. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a pan-genome and identify genomic signatures linked to the elevated prevalence of L4 sublineages among extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) patients in western Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at an institutional level involving confirmed cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) patients from August 5, 2018, to December 30, 2019. A total of 75 MTB genomes, classified under lineage 4 (L4), were used for conducting pan-genome and genome-wide association study (GWAS) analyses. After a quality check, variants were identified using MTBseq, and genomes were de novo assembled using SPAdes. Gene prediction and annotation were performed using Prokka. The pan-genome was constructed using GET_HOMOLOGUES, and its functional analysis was carried out with the Bacterial Pan-Genome Analysis tool (BPGA). For GWAS analysis, Scoary was employed with Benjamini-Hochberg correction, with a significance threshold set at p-value ≤ 0.05.

Results

The analysis revealed a total of 3,270 core genes, predominantly associated with orthologous groups (COG) functions, notably in the categories of ‘[R] General function prediction only’ and ‘[I] Lipid transport and metabolism’. Conversely, functions related to ‘[N] Cell motility’ and ‘[Q] Secondary metabolites biosynthesis, transport, and catabolism’ were primarily linked to unique and accessory genes. The pan-genome of MTB L4 was found to be open. Furthermore, the GWAS study identified genomic signatures linked to the prevalence of sublineages L4.6.3 and L4.2.2.2.

Conclusions

Apart from host and environmental factors, the sublineage of L4 employs distinct virulence factors for successful dissemination in western Ethiopia. Given that the functions of these newly identified genes are not well understood, it is advisable to experimentally validate their roles, particularly in the successful transmission of specific L4 sublineages over others.
Quality of primary health care for chronic diseases in low-resource settings: Evidence from a comprehensive study in rural China
Authors: Li Mingyue , Zhang Xiaotian , Tang Haoqing , Zheng Huixian , Long Ren , Cheng Xiaoran , Cheng Haozhe , Dong Jiajia , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Xiaoyan , Geldsetzer Pascal , Liu Xiaoyun
Published: July 2024

Background

There is a paucity of evidence regarding the definition of the quality of primary health care (PHC) in China. This study aims to evaluate the PHC quality for chronic diseases in rural areas based on a modified conceptual framework tailored to the context of rural China.

Methods

This comprehensive study, involving a patient survey, a provider survey and chart abstraction, and second-hand registered data, was set in three low-resource counties in rural China from 2021 to 2022. Rural patients with hypertension or type 2 diabetes, and health care workers providing care on hypertension or diabetes were involved. The modified PHC quality framework encompasses three core domains: a competent PHC system (comprehensiveness, accessibility, continuity, and coordination), effective clinical care (assessment, diagnosis, treatment, disease management, and provider competence), and positive user experience (information sharing, shared decision-making, respect for patient’s preferences, and family-centeredness). Standardized PHC quality score was generated by arithmetic means or Rasch models of Item Response Theory.

Results

This study included 1355 patients, 333 health care providers and 2203 medical records. Ranging from 0 (the worst) to 1 (the best), the average quality score for the PHC system was 0.718, with 0.887 for comprehensiveness, 0.781 for accessibility, 0.489 for continuity, and 0.714 for coordination. For clinical care, average quality was 0.773 for disease assessment, 0.768 for diagnosis, 0.677 for treatment, 0.777 for disease management, and 0.314 for provider competence. The average quality for user experience was 0.727, with 0.933 for information sharing, 0.657 for shared decision-making, 0.936 for respect for patients’ preferences, and 0.382 for family-centeredness. The differences in quality among population subgroups, although statistically significant, were small.

Conclusion

The PHC quality in rural China has shown strengths and limitations. We identified large gaps in continuity of care, treatment, provider competence, family-centeredness, and shared decision-making. Policymakers should invest more effort in addressing these gaps to improve PHC quality.
Adoption of environmental management accounting in Vietnamese enterprises: An empirical analysis of influencing determinants
Authors: Nguyen Thi Mai Anh
Published: July 2024

Along with the process of rapid economic development and integration, Vietnam is facing serious environmental problems, largely caused by manufacturing enterprises. Environmental management accounting (EMA) is a strong management tool to improve an organization’s financial and environmental performance, hence supporting businesses for sustainability. This study focused on examining the factors that influence the firms’ intention to adopt EMA in Vietnam. The study used the theory of planned behavior and the technology acceptance model to develop an empirical model and hypotheses. Research data was collected through a survey of 330 businesses in 4 provinces in the North region. We analyzed the data using descriptive statistics, Anova test, Cronbach’ s Alpha analysis, Exploratory factor analysis, and regression. The results showed that there are 6 significant factors driving EMA applying intention including environmental attitude, perceived benefits of EMA, subjective norms, coercion and social pressure, perceived control and barrier, and policy mix condition, in which coercion and social pressure was the strongest influencing factor. From there, the study makes some implication for government and business sectors aimed at encouraging the implementation of EMA in Vietnam.
Predictive value of bile acids as metabolite biomarkers for gallstone disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Han Xu , Wang Juan , Wu Yingnan , Gu Hao , Zhao Ning , Liao Xing , Jiang Miao
Published: July 2024

Background

The profiles of bile acids (BAs) in patients with gallstone disease (GSD) have been found to be altered markedly though in an inconsistent pattern. This study aims to characterize the variation of the BA profiles in GSD patients, thereby to discover the potential metabolite biomarkers for earlier detection of GSD.

Methods

Literature search of eight electronic database in both English and Chinese was completed on May 11, 2023. The qualitative and quantitative reviews were performed to summarize the changes of BA profiles in GSD patients compared with healthy subjects. The concentrations of BAs were adopted as the primary outcomes and the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were generated by random-effects meta-analysis models.

Results

A total of 30 studies were enrolled which included 2313 participants and reported the 39 BAs or their ratios. Qualitative review demonstrated serum Taurocholic Acid (TCA), Glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA), Glycocholic acid (GCA), Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA), Glycodeoxycholic acid (GDCA) and Deoxycholic acid (DCA) were significantly increased in GSD patients compared with healthy subjects. Meta analysis was performed in 16 studies and showed that serum Total BAs (TBA) (WMD = 1.36μmol/L, 95%CI = 0.33; 2.4) was elevated however bile TBA (WMD = -36.96mmol/L, 95%CI = -52.32; -21.6) was declined in GSD patients. GCA (WMD = 0.83μmol/L, 95%CI = 0.06; 1.6) and TCA (WMD = 0.51μmol/L; 95%CI = 0.18; 0.85) were both increased in serum sample; TCDCA (WMD = 2.64mmol/L, 95%CI = 0.16; 5.12) was rising, however GCDCA (WMD = -13.82mmol/L, 95%CI = -21.86; -5.78) was falling in bile sample of GSD patients. The level of serum DCA in the GSD patients was found to be increased by using chromatography, yet decreased by chromatography mass spectrometry.

Conclusion

The profiles of BAs demonstrated distinctive changes in GSD patients compared with healthy control subjects. Serum GCA, TCA and GCDCA, as the typically variant BAs, presented as a potential marker for earlier diagnosis of GSD, which could facilitate early prophylactic intervention. Yet, further validation of these biomarkers by longitudinal studies is still warranted in the future.

PROSPERO registration number CRD42022339649.
Performance evaluation of inclusive green growth in China: Dynamic evolution, regional differences, and spatial correlation
Authors: Xu Yingchao , Li Lu , Xiang Shujian
Published: July 2024

Inclusive green growth is an essential way to achieve sustainable development. We construct an index system for inclusive green growth performance levels (IGGPLs) in Chinese cities and measure the IGGPLs of 271 cities in the Chinese mainland from 2006 to 2020 based on the vertical and horizontal scatter degree method. We employ the Kernel density method, Dagum Gini coefficient method, Moran index method, and Markov chain method to investigate distribution evolution, regional disparities, spatial correlations, and state transition of IGGPLs at the city level, respectively. The research results reveal that: (1) China’s IGGPL has improved rapidly, but regions with lower IGGPLs still predominate. The eastern region is far ahead, followed by the northeastern region, with the western and center regions trailing; (2) The development trends of IGGPLs in the eastern and central regions are positive, with no signs of polarization. Although polarizations are obvious in the western and northeastern but have been improved significantly; (3) Regional differences exist, but are gradually narrowing over time. By decomposing regional differences, we find that regional differences are the main cause of total differences; (4) The IGGPLs of cities have significant spatial correlations, presenting the spatial agglomeration characteristics of “high-high” and “low-low”.
Student experiences with a molecular biotechnology course containing an interactive 3D immersive simulation and its impact on motivational beliefs
Authors: Spencer Dan , McKeown Caitlin , Tredwell David , Huckaby Benjamin , Wiedner Andrew , Dums Jacob T. , Cartwright Emily L. , Potts Colin M. , Sudduth Nathan , Brown Evan , Albright Phillips , Jhala Arnav , Srougi Melissa C.
Published: July 2024

The development and use of virtual laboratories to augment traditional in-person skills training continues to grow. Virtual labs have been implemented in a number of diverse educational settings, which have many purported benefits including their adaptability, accessibility, and repeatability. However, few studies have evaluated the impact of virtual laboratories outside of academic achievement and skills competencies, especially in biotechnology. In this study, an interdisciplinary team of content experts, video game researchers, instructional designers, and assessment experts developed a 3D immersive simulation designed to teach novice scientists the technical skills necessary to perform sterile mammalian cell culture technique. Unique to the simulation development process is the recreation of an immersive experience through the capture of details in the real-world lab where participants have the freedom of choice in their actions, while receiving immediate feedback on their technical skills as well as procedural execution. However, unlike an in-person laboratory course, students are able to iterate and practice their skills outside of class time and learn from their mistakes. Over the course of two semesters, we used a mixed-methods study design to evaluate student attitudes towards the simulation and their science motivational beliefs. Students’ self-efficacy and science identity were assessed after engaging with the simulation prior to the physical laboratory. Our results show that students’ science identity remained unchanged while their science self-efficacy increased. Furthermore, students had positive perceptions of the benefits of the virtual simulation. These data suggest that the virtual cell culture simulation can be a useful pedagogical training tool to support students’ motivational beliefs that is both accessible and easy to implement.
Optimization of salicylic acid concentrations for increasing antioxidant enzymes and bioactive compounds of Agastache rugosa in a plant factory
Authors: Phong Lam Vu , Loi Dao Nhan , Shin Juhyung , Mi Lee Kyeong , Park Jongseok
Published: July 2024

Salicylic acid (SA) plays a crucial role as a hormone in plants and belongs to the group of phenolic compounds. Our objective was to determine the optimal concentration of SA for enhancing the production of bioactive compounds in Agastache rugosa plants while maintaining optimal plant growth. The plants underwent SA soaking treatments at different concentrations (i.e., 0, 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1600 μmol mol−1) for 10 min at 7 days after they were transplanted. We observed that elevated levels of SA at 800 and 1600 μmol mol−1 induced oxidative stress, leading to a significant reduction across many plant growth variables, including leaf length, width, number, area, shoot fresh weight (FW), stem FW and length, and whole plant dry weights (DW) compared with that in the control plants. Additionally, the treatment with 1600 μmol mol−1 SA resulted in the lowest values of flower branch number, FW and DW of flowers, and DW of leaf, stem, and root. Conversely, applying 400 μmol mol−1 SA resulted in the greatest increase of chlorophyll (Chl) a and b, total Chl, total flavonoid, total carotenoid, and SPAD values. The photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance decreased with increased SA concentrations (i.e., 800 and 1600 μmol mol−1). Furthermore, the higher SA treatments (i.e., 400, 800, and 1600 μmol mol−1) enhanced the phenolic contents, and almost all SA treatments increased the antioxidant capacity. The rosmarinic acid content peaked under 200 μmol mol−1 SA treatment. However, under 400 μmol mol−1 SA, tilianin and acacetin contents reached their highest levels. These findings demonstrate that immersing the roots in 200 and 400  μmol mol−1 SA enhances the production of bioactive compounds in hydroponically cultivated A. rugosa without compromising plant growth. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the impact of SA on A. rugosa and its potential implications for medicinal plant cultivation and phytochemical production.
Experiences of food insecurity in the Roma population before and during the COVID-19 lockdown in Spain
Authors: Soares Panmela , Molins Betlem Heras , Martínez Milán Mª Asunción , Rodríguez Camacho Mª Félix , Clemente-Gómez Vicente , Comino Iris , Davó-Blanes Mª Carmen
Published: July 2024

Objective

To explore the food insecurity experienced by the Roma population of the Valencian Community (Spain) and the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown.

Method

Quantitative, cross-sectional exploratory study using a questionnaire that collected information on socioeconomic status and situations of food insecurity experienced before and during lockdown, based on the Food Insecurity Experience Scale of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. The questionnaire was applied by health workers from the Roma community with people over 18 years of age. A descriptive analysis was carried out stratifying by sex, calculating Chi-square test to identify differences in the variables of the experiences of food insecurity.

Results

468 people participated (57.1% women/42.9% men) who expressed: worry about a lack of food (67.3%); eating the same type of food (37.2%); not being able to eat healthy foods (34.4%); feeling hungry and not being able to eat (9.6%). Around 2.1 percent stated that they could not eat for a whole day, and 65 percent reported that they had to ask for or provide help to be able to eat. When stratifying by sex, it was found that women had more experiences of food insecurity. Except in the case of having stopped eating for a full day, where the percentage remained constant, an increase was observed in the other experiences of food insecurity during lockdown.

Conclusions

A large part of the Roma population studied, especially women, experienced situations of food insecurity before COVID-19 that were aggravated during lockdown. This situation was compensated for by community support networks.
Reliability of left ventricular hemodynamic forces derived from feature-tracking cardiac magnetic resonance
Authors: Ismailov Temirlan , Khamitova Zaukiya , Jumadilova Dinara , Khissamutdinov Nail , Toktarbay Bauyrzhan , Zholshybek Nurmakhan , Rakhmanov Yeltay , Salustri Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Background

Hemodynamic forces (HDF) analysis has been proposed as a method to quantify intraventricular pressure gradients, however data on its reliability are still scanty. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the reliability of HDF parameters derived from cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR).

Methods

CMR studies of 25 athletes were analysed by two independent observers and then re-analysed by the same observer one week apart. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC [95% CI]) and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess association, agreement, and bias of the longitudinal (A-B) HDF, transverse (L-S) HDF, and Impulse Angle. The sample size required to detect a relative change in the HDF parameters was also calculated.

Results

In terms of inter-observer variability, there was a good correlation for the A-B and L-S (ICC 0.85 [0.67–0.93] and 0.86 [0.69–0.94]; p<0.001 for both, respectively) and a moderate correlation for the Impulse Angle (ICC 0.73 [0.39–0.87]; p = 0.001). For intra-observer variability, A-B and L-S showed excellent correlation (ICC 0.91 [0.78–0.93] and 0.93 [0.83–0.97]; p<0.001 for both, respectively). Impulse Angle presented good correlation (ICC 0.80 [0.56–0.90]; p<0.001). Frame selection and aortic valve area measurements were the most vulnerable step in terms of reliability of the method. Sample size calculation to detect relative changes ranged from n = 1 to detect a 15% relative change in Impulse Angle to n = 171 for the detection of 10% relative change in A-B HDF.

Conclusions

The results of this study showed a low inter- and intra-observer variability of HDF parameters derived from feature-tracking CMR. This provides the fundamental basis for their use both in research and clinical practice, which could eventually lead to the detection of significant changes at follow-up studies.
Prevalence, variety, and iron and zinc content of commercial infant and toddler foods sold in the United States that contain meat
Authors: Moding Kameron J. , Lawless Megan C. , Forestell Catherine A. , Barrett Katherine J. , Johnson Susan L.
Published: July 2024

Iron and zinc are important nutrients during infancy, particularly for infants exclusively fed human milk at the beginning of complementary feeding (CF) from 6–12 months. The 1st Foods Study examined the ingredients and nutrient contents of commercially-available infant and toddler foods (ITFs) that were sold in the US and contained meat. Company websites (n = 22) were used to create a database of commercial ITFs (n = 165) available for purchase in the US and contained at least one meat (e.g., beef, chicken, pork). Single ingredient and ready-to-serve meals (for ages ≤ 9 months) and ready-to-serve meals (for ages 10+ months) were categorized as infant and toddler products, respectively. For each product, the ingredient list, intended age/stage, serving size (g), energy (kcal), protein (g), iron (mg), and zinc (mg) per serving were recorded from product labels. Nutrient amount/100 g was calculated for each product and medians and inter-quartile ranges were calculated and compared (1) by intended age/stage of the product and (2) according to meat type. In general, toddler products contained more iron than infant products. Within infant products (n = 65), more iron was found in products containing beef relative to products with other meats, which were similar in iron content. Within toddler products (n = 38), more iron was found in products containing seafood, followed by beef, turkey, and pork. Slightly less iron was found in products with chicken. Zinc content was infrequently reported (n = 17 total products). Because many of the products assessed contained low amounts of iron and zinc, meeting the current infant and toddler requirements for iron and zinc during the CF period may be challenging if commercial ITFs containing meat are the primary source of these nutrients.
Measurement of changes to the menstrual cycle: A transdisciplinary systematic review evaluating measure quality and utility for clinical trials
Authors: Mackenzie Amelia C. L. , Chung Stephanie , Hoppes Emily , Mickler Alexandria K , Cartwright Alice F.
Published: July 2024

Despite the importance of menstruation and the menstrual cycle to health, human rights, and sociocultural and economic wellbeing, the study of menstrual health suffers from a lack of funding, and research remains fractured across many disciplines. We sought to systematically review validated approaches to measure four aspects of changes to the menstrual cycle—bleeding, blood, pain, and perceptions—caused by any source and used within any field. We then evaluated the measure quality and utility for clinical trials of the identified instruments. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and four instrument databases and included peer-reviewed articles published between 2006 and 2023 that reported on the development or validation of instruments assessing menstrual changes using quantitative or mixed-methods methodology. From a total of 8,490 articles, 8,316 were excluded, yielding 174 articles reporting on 94 instruments. Almost half of articles were from the United States or United Kingdom and over half of instruments were only in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese. Most instruments measured bleeding parameters, uterine pain, or perceptions, but few assessed characteristics of blood. Nearly 60% of instruments were developed for populations with menstrual or gynecologic disorders or symptoms. Most instruments had fair or good measure quality or clinical trial utility; however, most instruments lacked evidence on responsiveness, question sensitivity and/or transferability, and only three instruments had good scores of both quality and utility. Although we took a novel, transdisciplinary approach, our systematic review found important gaps in the literature and instrument landscape, pointing towards a need to examine the menstrual cycle in a more comprehensive, inclusive, and standardized way. Our findings can inform the development of new or modified instruments, which—if used across the many fields that study menstrual health and within clinical trials—can contribute to a more systemic and holistic understanding of menstruation and the menstrual cycle.
A deep learning framework for the early detection of multi-retinal diseases
Authors: Ejaz Sara , Baig Raheel , Ashraf Zeeshan , Alnfiai Mrim M. , Alnahari Mona Mohammed , Alotaibi Reemiah Muneer
Published: July 2024

Retinal images play a pivotal contribution to the diagnosis of various ocular conditions by ophthalmologists. Extensive research was conducted to enable early detection and timely treatment using deep learning algorithms for retinal fundus images. Quick diagnosis and treatment planning can be facilitated by deep learning models’ ability to process images rapidly and deliver outcomes instantly. Our research aims to provide a non-invasive method for early detection and timely eye disease treatment using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). We used a dataset Retinal Fundus Multi-disease Image Dataset (RFMiD), which contains various categories of fundus images representing different eye diseases, including Media Haze (MH), Optic Disc Cupping (ODC), Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), and healthy images (WNL). Several pre-processing techniques were applied to improve the model’s performance, such as data augmentation, cropping, resizing, dataset splitting, converting images to arrays, and one-hot encoding. CNNs have extracted extract pertinent features from the input color fundus images. These extracted features are employed to make predictive diagnostic decisions. In this article three CNN models were used to perform experiments. The model’s performance is assessed utilizing statistical metrics such as accuracy, F1 score, recall, and precision. Based on the results, the developed framework demonstrates promising performance with accuracy rates of up to 89.81% for validation and 88.72% for testing using 12-layer CNN after Data Augmentation. The accuracy rate obtained from 20-layer CNN is 90.34% for validation and 89.59% for testing with Augmented data. The accuracy obtained from 20-layer CNN is greater but this model shows overfitting. These accuracy rates suggested that the deep learning model has learned to distinguish between different eye disease categories and healthy images effectively. This study’s contribution lies in providing a reliable and efficient diagnostic system for the simultaneous detection of multiple eye diseases through the analysis of color fundus images.
Effect of ultrasonic surface impact on the microstructural characterization and mechanical properties of 316L austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Zhu Jiangpei , Zhuang Mei-Ling , Qi Yuting , Chen Bin , Cao Xiaojian
Published: July 2024

In the present study, effect of ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT) on the microstructural characterization and mechanical properties of 316L stainless steel (hereinafter referred to as 316L) was investigated experimentally. The fatigue fracture mechanism of 316L before and after UIT was revealed. The experimental results indicated that the martensitic grain size induced at the impact edge was about 2.00 Å. The surface modified 316L formed a gradient nanostructure and induced a martensitic phase transformation. The hardness of the surface layer of the modified 316L was twice the hardness of its matrix. The tensile strengths of 316L before and after UIT were 576 MPa and 703 MPa, respectively. The stretching stripes of 316L were more disordered after UIT. The fatigue strengths of 316L before and after UIT were 267 MPa and 327 MPa, respectively. The fatigue cracking of 316L started from the austenite grain boundaries. The fatigue fracture surface was relatively rough. The fatigue crack sources of the modified 316L came from internal inclusions. The inclusions were oxides dominated by SiO2. As the stress range increased, the crack initiation site migrated to the interior and the fatigue fracture surface became flatter.
Quantification and visualization of US racial geography using the National Racial Geography Dataset 2020
Authors: Dmowska Anna , Stepinski Tomasz F.
Published: July 2024

Racial geography studies the spatial distributions of multiracial populations. Technical challenges arise from the fact that US Census data, upon which all US-based studies rely, is only available in the form of spatial aggregates at a few levels of granularity. This negatively affects spatial analysis and, consequently, the quantification of racial segregation, especially on a smaller length scale. A recent methodology called the Racial Landscape (RL) stochastically disaggregates racial data at the level of census block aggregates into a grid of monoracial cells. RL-transformed racial data makes possible pattern-based, zoneless analysis, and visualization of racial geography. Here, we introduce the National Racial Geography Dataset 2020 (NRGD2020)—a collection of RL-based grids calculated from the 2020 census data and covering the entire conterminous US. It includes a virtual image layer for a bird’s-eye-like view visualization of the spatial distribution of racial sub-populations, numerical grids for calculating racial diversity and segregation within user-defined regions, and precalculated maps of racial diversity and segregation on various length scales. NRGD2020 aims to facilitate and extend spatial analyses of racial geography and to make it more interpretable by tightly integrating quantitative analysis with visualization (mapping).
Prostaglandin D2 receptor 2 downstream signaling and modulation of type 2 innate lymphoid cells from patients with asthma
Authors: Gress Christina , Fuchs Maximilian , Carstensen-Aurèche Saskia , Müller Meike , Hohlfeld Jens M.
Published: July 2024

Increased production of Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is linked to development and progression of asthma and allergy. PGD2 is rapidly degraded to its metabolites, which initiate type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) migration and IL-5/IL-13 cytokine secretion in a PGD2 receptor 2 (DP2)-dependent manner. Blockade of DP2 has shown therapeutic benefit in subsets of asthma patients. Cellular mechanisms of ILC2 activity in response to PGD2 and its metabolites are still unclear. We hypothesized that ILC2 respond non-uniformly to PGD2 metabolites. ILC2s were isolated from peripheral blood of patients with atopic asthma. ILC2s were stimulated with PGD2 and four PGD2 metabolites (Δ12-PGJ2, Δ12-PGD2, 15-deoxyΔ12,14-PGD2, 9α,11β-PGF2) with or without the selective DP2 antagonist fevipiprant. Total RNA was sequenced, and differentially expressed genes (DEG) were identified by DeSeq2. Differential gene expression analysis revealed an upregulation of pro-inflammatory DEGs in ILC2s stimulated with PGD2 (14 DEGs), Δ12-PGD2 (27 DEGs), 15-deoxyΔ12,14-PGD2 (56 DEGs) and Δ12-PGJ2 (136 DEGs), but not with 9α,11β-PGF2. Common upregulated DEGs were i.e. ARG2, SLC43A2, LAYN, IGFLR1, or EPHX2. Inhibition of DP2 via fevipiprant mainly resulted in downregulation of pro-inflammatory genes such as DUSP4, SPRED2, DUSP6, ETV1, ASB2, CD38, ADGRG1, DDIT4, TRPM2, or CD69. DEGs were related to migration and various immune response-relevant pathways such as “chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4 production”, “cell migration”, “interleukin-13 production”, “regulation of receptor signaling pathway via JAK-STAT”, or “lymphocyte apoptotic process”, underlining the pro-inflammatory effects of PGD2 metabolite-induced immune responses in ILC2s as well as the anti-inflammatory effects of DP2 inhibition via fevipiprant. Furthermore, PGD2 and metabolites showed distinct profiles in ILC2 activation. Overall, these results expand our understanding of DP2 initiated ILC2 activity.
Select amino acids recover cytokine-altered ENaC function in human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Sasidharan Anusree , Grosche Astrid , Xu Xiaodong , Kinane T. Bernard , Angoli Damiano , Vidyasagar Sadasivan
Published: July 2024

The airway epithelium plays a pivotal role in regulating mucosal immunity and inflammation. Epithelial barrier function, homeostasis of luminal fluid, and mucociliary clearance are major components of mucosal defense mechanisms. The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is one of the key players in controlling airway fluid volume and composition, and characteristic cytokines cause ENaC and barrier dysfunctions following pulmonary infections or allergic reactions. Given the limited understanding of the requisite duration and magnitude of cytokines to affect ENaC and barrier function, available treatment options for restoring normal ENaC activity are limited. Previous studies have demonstrated that distinct amino acids can modulate epithelial ion channel activities and barrier function in intestines and airways. Here, we have investigated the time- and concentration-dependent effect of representative cytokines for Th1- (IFN-γ and TNF-α), Th2- (IL-4 and IL-13), and Treg-mediated (TGF-β1) immune responses on ENaC activity and barrier function in human bronchial epithelial cells. When cells were exposed to Th1 and Treg cytokines, ENaC activity decreased gradually while barrier function remained largely unaffected. In contrast, Th2 cytokines had an immediate and profound inhibitory effect on ENaC activity that was subsequently followed by epithelial barrier disruption. These functional changes were associated with decreased membrane protein expression of α-, β-, and γ-ENaC, and decreased mRNA levels of β- and γ-ENaC. A proprietary blend of amino acids was developed based on their ability to prevent Th2 cytokine-induced ENaC dysfunction. Exposure to the select amino acids reversed the inhibitory effect of IL-13 on ENaC activity by increasing mRNA levels of β- and γ-ENaC, and protein expression of γ-ENaC. This study indicates the beneficial effect of select amino acids on ENaC activity in anin vitrosetting of Th2-mediated inflammation suggesting these amino acids as a novel therapeutic approach for correcting this condition.
Machine learning based method for analyzing vibration and noise in large cruise ships
Authors: Wu Wenwei , He Tao , Hao Xiaying , Xu Kaiwei , Zeng Ji , Gu Jiahui , Chen Lei
Published: July 2024

Cruise ships are distinguished as special passenger ships, transporting passengers to various ports and giving importance to comfort. High comfort can attract lots of passengers and generate substantial profits. Vibration and noise are the most important indicators for assessing the comfort of cruise ships. Existing methods for analyzing vibration and noise data have shown limitations in uncovering essential information and discerning critical disparities in vibration and noise levels across different ship districts. Conversely, the rapid development in machine learning present an opportunity to leverage sophisticated algorithms for a more insightful examination of vibration and noise aboard cruise ships. This study designed a machine learning-driven approach to analyze the vibration and noise data. Drawing data from China’s first large-scale cruise ship, encompassing 127 noise samples, this study sets up a classification task, where decks were assigned as labels and frequencies served as features. Essential information was extracted by investigating this problem. Several machine learning algorithms, including feature ranking, selection, and classification algorithms, were adopted in this method. One or two essential noise frequencies related to each of the decks, except the 10th deck, were obtained, which were partly validated by the traditional statistical methods. Such findings were helpful in reducing and controlling the vibration and noise in cruise ships. Furthermore, the study develops a classifier to distinguish noise samples, which utilizes random forest as the classification algorithm with eight optimal frequency features identified by LightGBM. This classifier yielded a Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.3415. This study gives a new direction for investigating vibration and noise in ships.
Mixed Wolbachia infections resolve rapidly during in vitro evolution
Authors: Mirchandani Cade , Wang Pingting , Jacobs Jodie , Genetti Maximilian , Pepper-Tunick Evan , Sullivan William T. , Corbett-Detig Russell , Russell Shelbi L.
Published: July 2024

The intracellular symbiont Wolbachia pipientis evolved after the divergence of arthropods and nematodes, but it reached high prevalence in many of these taxa through its abilities to infect new hosts and their germlines. Some strains exhibit long-term patterns of co-evolution with their hosts, while other strains are capable of switching hosts. This makes strain selection an important factor in symbiont-based biological control. However, little is known about the ecological and evolutionary interactions that occur when a promiscuous strain colonizes an infected host. Here, we study what occurs when two strains come into contact in host cells following horizontal transmission and infection. We focus on the faithful wMel strain from Drosophila melanogaster and the promiscuous wRi strain from Drosophila simulans using an in vitro cell culture system with multiple host cell types and combinatorial infection states. Mixing D. melanogaster cell lines stably infected with wMel and wRi revealed that wMel outcompetes wRi quickly and reproducibly. Furthermore, wMel was able to competitively exclude wRi even from minuscule starting quantities, indicating that this is a nearly deterministic outcome, independent of the starting infection frequency. This competitive advantage was not exclusive to wMel’s native D. melanogaster cell background, as wMel also outgrew wRi in D. simulans cells. Overall, wRi is less adept at in vitro growth and survival than wMel and its in vivo state, revealing differences between the two strains in cellular and humoral regulation. These attributes may underlie the observed low rate of mixed infections in nature and the relatively rare rate of host-switching in most strains. Our in vitro experimental framework for estimating cellular growth dynamics of Wolbachia strains in different host species and cell types provides the first strategy for parameterizing endosymbiont and host cell biology at high resolution. This toolset will be crucial to our application of these bacteria as biological control agents in novel hosts and ecosystems.
Synthesis and Anti-inflammatory Activities of 4-Arylidene-2-phenyloxazol-5(4H)-one Derivatives
Authors: Hewage Visal C. Lorensu , Gunaratna Medha J. , Egodawaththa Nishal M. , Nesnas Nasri
Published: July 2024

In this study, four different 4-arylidene-2-phenyloxazol-5(4H)-ones (5a-d), were synthesized via the Erlenmeyer-Plöchl reaction and characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectroscopic techniques. Evaluation of their in vitro anti-inflammatory activities using the heat-induced human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay revealed concentration dependent inhibitory effects. The IC50 values of 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d were reported as 4.65 ± 0.22 mM, 7.34 ± 0.28 mM, 5.23 ± 0.18 mM and 1.96 ± 0.09 mM, respectively. O-Acetyl salicylic acid as standard showed its IC50 value at 6.41 ± 0.18 mM. Docking studies against human cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2 revealed affinities of the compounds to binding cavities of COX enzymes. Particularly, compound 5d exhibited remarkable activity in both HRBC membrane stabilization and the formation of hydrogen bonds with binding cavities. This suggests a potential correlation between the number of hydroxyl groups of oxazolone derivatives and the enhancement of anti-inflammatory activity.
Mapping solar variability of equatorial sunspots and plasma flows
Authors: Goshu Belay Sitotaw
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the variability of equatorial sunspots and plasma flows, focusing on the detailed dynamics of solar activity revealed by sunspot data analysis and magnetic field evolution. The goals were to investigate the relationship between sunspot numbers with differential rotation, meridional circulation, and magnetic induction using observational data and theoretical models. The methods included studying historical sunspot data from 1700 to the present and using time series decomposition to find trends, seasonality, and residuals. The evolution of the solar magnetic field was predicted using the magnetic induction equation, which considers plasma flow and magnetic diffusion effects. The real sunspot data were combined with the simulated magnetic field data to investigate their relationship over time. Contour maps were created to illustrate the spatiotemporal evolution of the magnetic field, and correlation studies were used to quantify the correlations between sunspot numbers and key solar dynamics characteristics. Key studies show that the Sun rotates differentially, with latitudinal zones rotating at differing angular velocities, influencing sunspot generation. A strong connection (0.8192) between the sunspot numbers and meridional velocity demonstrates the influence of large-scale plasma flows on sunspot activity. Despite this, the monthly averaged magnetic field strength and sunspot numbers exhibited a minor correlation (0.004507), showing that solar activity is affected by independent underlying processes or phases. Magnetic field evolution contour maps show differences from 1x1013 to 2x1013 Gauss at different spatial (40 km to 80 km) and temporal scales (from start to the present in months). This evolution is governed by the magnetic induction equation, which includes the effects of plasma flow and magnetic diffusion. The paper also emphasizes the alpha effect's significance in producing poloidal magnetic fields from toroidal fields via turbulent convection, which is essential to the solar dynamo mechanism. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of equatorial sunspots and plasma flows, offering insights into the solar cycle and laying the groundwork for future research in solar and space weather prediction.
A Case for the Humanities
Authors: Biriotti Maurice , Grieveson Lee , Jordan Julia , Miller Nicola , Paskins James , Scott Ian , Wilson James
Published: July 2024

First proposed in 2020 and supported by UCL’s Grand Challenge of Cultural Understanding, the UCL Enquiry on a Case for the Humanities set out to articulate and celebrate the value of the Humanities. This Enquiry places its emphasis on asking questions: it is not an official inquiry or inquest, nor a process designed to come up with a specific, single answer. It is, instead, a thoughtful search for insights, conducted in the spirit of the approach Humanities scholars take to their subjects. Liberated from the burden of serving any particular purpose or interest, those involved in the Enquiry set themselves the task of examining and expressing the vital role of the Humanities in a rapidly changing world.
การวิเคราะห์องค์ประกอบสมรรถนะของผู้บริหารสถานศึกษายุคดิจิทัล สังกัดสำนักงานส่งเสริมการศึกษานอกระบบและการศึกษาตามอัธยาศัย
Authors: พิมพ์ภูลาด เสาวลักษณ์ ,   มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีราชมงคลธัญบุรี, บุญธรรม ต้องลักษณ์ ,   มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีราชมงคลธัญบุรี
Published: July 2024

การวิจัยนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อวิเคราะห์องค์ประกอบสมรรถนะของผู้บริหารสถานศึกษายุคดิจิทัล สังกัดสำนักงาน ส่งเสริมการศึกษานอกระบบและการศึกษาตามอัธยาศัย ตัวอย่าง ได้แก่ ครูและบุคลากรทางการศึกษา สังกัดสำนักงานส่งเสริมการศึกษานอกระบบและการศึกษาตามอัธยาศัยกรุงเทพมหานครและปริมณฑล ปีการศึกษา 2565 จำนวน 286 คน ได้มาจากสุ่มตัวอย่างแบบแบ่งชั้นภูมิ เครื่องมือที่ใช้การวิจัยคือ แบบสอบถามประมาณค่า 5 ระดับ สถิติที่ใช้ในการวิเคราะห์ข้อมูล ได้แก่ การวิเคราะห์องค์ประกอบเชิงยืนยันอันดับที่สอง ผลการวิจัยพบว่า การวิเคราะห์โมเดลองค์ประกอบเชิงยืนยันอันดับที่สองของสมรรถนะของผู้บริหารสถานศึกษายุคดิจิทัล ประกอบด้วย 6 องค์ประกอบ อย่างมีนัยสำคัญทางสถิติที่ระดับ .05 องค์ประกอบเชิงยืนยันอันดับที่สอง ได้แก่ (1) การมุ่งผลสัมฤทธิ์ (2) การคิดเชิงระบบและการคิดสร้างสรรค์ (3) การสื่อสารและโน้มน้าว (4) การมีวิสัยทัศน์ (5) การทำงานเป็นทีม และ (6) การใช้เทคโนโลยีดิจิทัล ตามลำดับ โมเดลมีความสอดคล้องกับข้อมูลเชิงประจักษ์เป็นอย่างดี ดังนี้ X2 เท่ากับ 525.03, p-value เท่ากับ 0.107 X2/df เท่ากับ 1.08 GFI เท่ากับ 0.91 RMR เท่ากับ 0.0096 RMSEA เท่ากับ 0.017 CFI เท่ากับ 1.00 และ SMSR เท่ากับ 0.026
Gestión del conocimiento y procesos en las empresas del sector turístico del departamento de Caldas (Colombia)
Authors: Marulanda Echeverry Carlos Eduardo , López Trujillo Marcelo , Suárez Salgado Marco Fidel
Published: July 2024

La gestión de conocimiento y la gestión de procesos son desarrollos fundamentales para las empresas de hoy; en este sentido, las empresas del sector turístico del departamento de Caldas (Colombia) pueden garantizan su permanencia y su éxito utilizando e incorporando adecuadamente estos conceptos. Para este caso se definió como objetivo establecer la relación entre la gestión del conocimiento y la gestión por procesos en dichas empresas. Para el efecto se estudió y analizó el ciclo de vida del conocimiento con los procesos misionales, estratégicos y operativos de estas compañías. Se desarrolló una investigación cualitativa con un enfoque descriptivo, explicativo con una población de 61 operadoras turísticas. El principal hallazgo corresponde la correlación significativa entre el ciclo de vida del conocimiento y la gestión por procesos de las empresas, lo que garantiza una adecuada gestión del conocimiento.
Red de Pueblos Patrimonio de Colombia como Política de Marca Territorial: Caso Girón Santander
Authors: Méndez Prada Martha Cecilia , López Barraza Lydia María , Ziritt Trejo Gertrudis Yackeline , Pérez Prieto María Elena
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar la política turística Red de Pueblos Patrimonio de Colombia (RPPC) teniendo en cuenta sus oportunidades para el turismo y el desarrollo local, lo cual implica la participación de múltiples actores, quienes aprovechan sus atributos y tendencias de la globalización para posicionarse en el ámbito nacional e internacional. Se realizó un estudio de caso, con enfoque cualitativo, descriptivo, mediante entrevistas en profundidad a varios actores del ámbito público y privado aplicadas en Girón (Santander, Colombia). Se encontró que la red de interrelaciones de los actores involucrados es limitada, pues muchos desconocen la política y los beneficios de pertenecer a esta; además posee fortalezas en la gestión de la marca y recursos implementados. En consecuencia, no se logra el desarrollo local coherente con los objetivos de la RPPC.
A Physis Natural e Sublime Tecnológico no Cinema Experimental Austríaco em Três Casos de Estudo: Arnulf Rainer (1960), Tree Again (1978) e Train Again (2021)
Authors: Bergamaschi Novaes Bárbara
Published: July 2024

Peter Kubelka, Kurt Kren e Peter Tscherkassky representam três gerações distintas do cinema de vanguarda austríaco. Neste artigo, analisamos uma obra de cada um desses cineastas, nomeadamente, Arnulf Rainer (1960), 37/78 Tree Again (1978) e Train Again (2021), que consideramos “filmes-opúsculos” de cada uma dessas gerações. Estes trabalhos engendram um pensamento a respeito da natureza do filme e no filme, privilegiando os sentidos afectivos (hápticos) com a imagem. Neles vêm à tona a relação visceral com a matéria fílmica, nos lembrando que esta também é feita de materiais orgânicos, ou seja, é um ser vivo, por isso, suscetível à morte. Como veremos, no choque dialógico entre dois corpos – o corpus fílmico e o corpo espectatorial – surge uma manifestação da natureza (physis). Os três filmes também investigam a temporalidade, considerada uma das qualidades intrínsecas do cinema. Será justamente a partir da observação da natureza-morta e da paisagem natural que diversos artistas buscaram apreender as qualidades lábeis, impalpáveis e atmosféricas do continuum do tempo. Para além de expor como estes estudos “naturais” retornam nos filmes dos três autores austríacos, demonstramos também como eles se aproximam dos conceitos de sublime kantiano por meio de um deslocamento da experiência com as forças da natureza para as forças da tecnologia. Concluímos que cada um desses cineastas elabora, à sua maneira, novos capítulos sobre a relação entre cinema e natureza, uma relação dialética com as artes visuais, sem necessariamente chegar a uma síntese redentora. Para tal, utilizamos conceitos e escritos de Jacques Aumont, Giorgio Agamben, David E. Nye e Victor Stoichita.