bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intervención educativa para mejorar la ergonomía en trabajadores
Authors: Meneses Flores Giovanni Giuseppe Simon , Suárez Moreno Víctor Javier , Espinoza Meza Gloria Ysabel , Moreno Garrido Zoila
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: Capacitar a los trabajadores de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, así como a otras instituciones externas, en estilos de vida saludable, manejo del estrés, ergonomía, seguridad y salud en el trabajo, a través de metodologías participativas de educación para adultos. Materiales y métodos: Se solicitaron los permisos correspondientes para la aplicación de los instrumentos en los diversos públicos objetivos. Se aplicó el instrumento “FANTÁSTICO” para identificar y priorizar las necesidades de capacitación del público objetivo. En función del análisis de los resultados se realizó el plan de capacitación con éxito, aunque se atrasó debido a ciertos inconvenientes con la asistencia de los públicos objetivos en los diferentes casos. Las sesiones educativas se diseñaron siguiendo el Modelo Didáctico Operativo de Bustos y se utilizaron metodologías participativas de educación andragógica. Los logros de aprendizaje se evaluaron mediante listas de cotejo, considerando aspectos cognoscitivos, afectivos y psicomotores. Resultados: Los trabajadores identificaron las posturas disergonómicas, además de los factores de riesgo presentes en su actividad laboral y las posibles consecuencias de la adopción de estas malas posturas, y realizaron por sí solos los ejercicios de pausas activas, estiramientos y ajuste postural. El 77 % de un grupo de trabajadores conocieron, imitaron y reconocieron los beneficios de las pausas activas que tienen en sus labores ante episodios de estrés. Conclusión: Los estudiantes aprendieron el modelo didáctico de Bustos, mediante el diseño y la ejecución de la actividad educativa en un aprendizaje-servicio a la comunidad. Los trabajadores identificaron problemas posturales y las medidas para corregirlos, en busca de una mejora a largo plazo en su salud.
Matrine From Sophora Flavescens Attenuates on Collagen-Induced Osteoarthritis by Modulating the Activity of miR-29B-3P/PGRN Axis
Authors: Jin Q , Li Z , Xu Q , Liu Q
Published: September 2023

Matrine is an active ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine that has been shown to be effective in treating bone disorders. The anti-osteoarthritis (OA) effects of matrine were assessed using both in in vitro and in vivo systems, and the mechanisms underlying the effects were investigated by focusing on the activity of miR-29b-3p/PGRN axis. The miR was chosen as potential target for matrine after chondrocytes were treated with both IL-1β and matrine. Changes in cell viability, cell apoptosis, inflammation, and miR-29b-3p/PGRN axis were detected. In vitro assays results were validated using collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat models. Incubation with IL-1β reduced cell viability, induced cell apoptosis, and inhibited production of cytokines in chondrocytes, which was associated with the up-regulation of miR-29b-3p and down-regulation of PGRN. In CIA rats, matrine reduced bone destruction and weight loss in a dose-dependent manner. Matrine also reduced the systemic levels of cytokines. At the molecular level, matrine inhibited the expression of miR-29b-3p while increasing the expression of PGRN. The findings outlined in the current study showed that matrine exerted its anti-OA effects by modulating the miR-29b-3p/PGRN axis.
INTERACTIVE CHATBOTS: A WAY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EDUCATIONAL SECTOR
Authors: Khandagale H. P. , Vaibhav Mane Shraddha ,   Shivaji University
Published: September 2023

In this day and age, Chatbots are becoming vital for many organizations and consortiums to negotiate with their customers. They are also being developed for educational Institutes to provide students of Institutes with services and support very quickly and efficiently. This paper provides the recapitulation of Chatbot usage and its primary aim of being designed for accessing information about an educational institute and assisting professors, students, and all other members who are in need of information and requires a speedy response from any corner of the world without being present in the Institute’s premises. Educational chatbots ameliorate profitability and correlation, and confine ambiguity from communications. It builds a between the Institute’s official site and its users. The Educational Chatbot has the potential to reply to any student’s, teacher’s, or other member's queries, which can be related to any information such as the Institute’s academics and admission process, assignments, research, administration, important events, etc. Chatbots guarantee that all the data will be made accessible to any individual day in and day out.
EXTRACTION, TRANSFORMATION AND LOADING PROCESS IN THE CLOUD COMPUTING SCENARIO
Authors: Venkateswarlu Dr. Maninti , Vasista Dr. T. G. ,   Ashoka Women’s Engineering College,
Published: September 2023

-Business Intelligence strategies often need real-time BI and analytics. For this purpose, BI systems focus on data management as a whole and good data and information quality in particular to achieve data consistency and referential integrity across distributed systems. Generating key performance indicators (KPI) of business intelligence might require incorporating the semantic approach of data integration to achieve the consistent and sustainable semantic decisions. So this paper deals with how to improve data and information quality by adopting Extraction-Transformation-Loading (ETL) and Extraction-Loading-Transformation processes towards generating structured data and semantic data with quality towards improving inference capabilities and generating semantic knowledge base for the business domain ontology. However this research did not consider dealing with dynamic or real-time data quality and their role towards producing better business intelligence
REDUCING MACHINE BREAKDOWN TIME USING DMAIC APPROACH IN A GARMENT INDUSTRY
Authors:   University of Engineering and Technology, Mustafa Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: September 2023

In the garment industry, reducing machine breakdowns is essential because it has a direct impact on production hours, customer orders, and financial losses. In order to reduce downtime and increase operational effectiveness in the garment industry, the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analysis, Improvement, and Control) approach is the main topic of this research paper. The study starts with a thorough review of the literature, examining various downtime minimization strategies applied in various industrial industries. The importance of downtime reduction in increasing output, reducing costs, and improving overall corporate performance is emphasized. The study emphasizes the value of scheduled, corrective, and preventive maintenance to find and fix any problems before they cause breakdowns. The article offers insights into effective tactics like preventative maintenance, condition-based monitoring, and efficient scheduling, and data-driven approaches using machine learning algorithms and real-time monitoring. The research paper also includes a case study of how the DMAIC methodology was used in the real-world textile industry to drastically minimize downtime. The DMAIC strategy consists of five phases: defining the issue and project goal, assessing the existing situation, investigating the underlying reasons, putting improvement strategies into practise, and setting up controls to maintain the gains. The study prioritises the primary causes of machine failure time, identifies the causes, and suggests remedies such worker training, providing workers with the ability to change needles, putting preventive maintenance in place, and applying standard operating procedures.
Pengaruh Fermentasi Kangkung Air (Ipomoea aquatica forsk) Sebagai Campuran Pakan Terhadap Pertumbuhan Itik Peking
Authors: Sauki Ahmad , Istyadji Maya , Hafizah Ellyna
Published: September 2023

Kangkung air dapat meningkatkan pertumbuhan itik peking(Anas platyrhyncos domestica) karena memiliki banyak kadar nutrisi seperti protein, karbohidrat, kadar air, kadar abu dan serat kasar. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk:  (1) Mengetahui kandungan protein, karbohidrat, serat kasar, kadar abu dan kadar air yang dihasilkan dari kangkung sebelum dan sesudah fermentasi setelah menjadi pakan. (2) Mengetahui formulasi yang optimal dengan kandungan nutrisi yang baik untuk pembuatan pakan ternak itik peking (Anas platyrhyncos domestica). (3) Mengetahui perkembangan berat/massa itik peking (Anas platyrhyncos domestica). Jenis/Model penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan model penelitian eksperimental. Semua data yang diperoleh dari hasil penelitian dianalis dengan analisis variansi berdasarkan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL). Dari penelitian ini didapatkan hasil kesimpulan berupa (1) kandungan pakan yang optimal kadar air 14.91% kadar abu 5.06% protein 19.6% karbohidrat 27.27% dan serat kasar 4.97%. (2) dengan formulasi pakan dedak 40% dan fermentasi kangkung 60% menghasilkan pertumbuhan yang optimal. (3) hasil perkembangan itik yang optimal yang di dapat adalah P1 dengan berat rata-rata 1039.56 gr. Penelitian ini memiliki pengaruh terhadap perkembangan itik peking (Anas platyrhyncos domestica).
Profil Literasi Sains dan Literasi Digital Mahasiswa Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang
Authors: Antika Rindi Novitri , Marpaung Rini Rita T.
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis profil literasi sains dan literasi digital mahasiswa Pendidikan Biologi Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Teknik sampling menggunakan puposive sampling yaitu mahasiswa pendidikan biologi semester 1 UM Palembang. Intrumen yang digunakan adalah soal uraian untuk memperoleh data literasi sains dan kuesioner untuk data literasi digital. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rerata keterampilan literasi sains mahasiswa 38,67 dengan kategori sangat kurang dan keterampilan literasi digital dengan rerata 80,72 dengan kategori baik. Secara rinci keterampilan literasi sains mahasiswa dalam beberapa sub indikator meliputi 1) Mengidentifikasi argumen saintifik yang tepat 28,91 (sangat kurang), 2) Menggunakan pencarian literatur yang efektif 40,38 (sangat kurang), 3) Evaluasi dan menggunakan infomasi saintifik 78,85 (baik), 4) Memahami elemen desain penelitian dan bagaimana dampaknya terhadap penemuan saintifik 27,88 (sangat kurang), 5) Membuat grafik yang dapat merepresentasikan data 27,88 (angat kurang), 6) Membaca dan menginterpretasikan data 56,73 (kurang), 7) Pemecahan masalah dengan menggunakan kemampuan kuantitatif 32,69 (sangat kurang), 8) Memahami dan mampu menginterpretasikan statistik dasar 23,56 (angat kurang), 9) Menyuguhkan kesimpulan, prediksi brdasarkan data kuantitatif 30,29 (sangat kurang). Keterampilan literasi digital mahasiswa dapat dirinci dalam beberapa indikator berikut 1) Function skill and beyond 78,00 (baik), 2) Creativity 71,15 (baik), 3) Critical thinking and evaluation 78,65 (baik), 4) Cultural and social understanding 85,38 (sangat baik), 5) Collaboration 85,00 (sangat baik), 6) The ability to find and select information 80,46 (baik), 7) Effective communication 84,62 (baik), 8) E savety 82,50 (baik).
Perbedaan Hasil Belajar Siswa Yang Dibelajarkan Menerapkan Model Teams Games Tournament Dengan Model Pembelajaran Langsung
Authors: Ahmad Muthi’ah Amaliyah , Syamsiah Syamsiah , Lodang Hamka
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini adalah penelitian eksperimen semu yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan hasil belajar biologi siswa pada materi sistem gerak yang dibelajarkan menerapkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Teams Games Tournament (TGT) dengan model pembelajaran langsung pada siswa kelas XI SMAN 1 Polewali. Variabel bebas dalam penelitian ini adalah model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Teams Games Tournament dan model pembelajaran langsung, sedangkan variabel terikatnya adalah hasil belajar biologi siswa pada materi sistem gerak. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa kelas XI MIPA SMAN 1 Polewali sebanyak 5 kelas, sedangkan sampelnya adalah siswa kelas XI MIPA 4 dan kelas XI MIPA 5, dengan jumlah siswa pada masing-masing kelas sebanyak 35 orang. Data hasil penelitian diperoleh dengan memberikan tes hasil belajar materi sistem gerak berupa pretest dan posttest. Hasil analisis deskriptif menunjukkan nilai rata- rata N-Gain kelompok eksperimen I sebesar 0,7212 dengan kategori tinggi, sedangan nilai rata-rata N-Gain kelas eksperimen II sebesar 0,5673 dengan kategori sedang. Hasil ini menunjukkan bahwa siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan menerapkan model pembelajaran Teams Games Tournament lebih tinggi daripada siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan menerapkan model pembelajaran langsung. Berdasarkan analisis statistik inferensial melalui uji-t diperoleh nilai sig. (2-tailed) sebesar 0,000 yang lebih kecil dari α (0,05), maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat perbedaan hasil belajar siswa yang dibelajarkan menerapkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Teams Games Tournamet dengan model pembelajaran langsung pada materi sistem gerak.
Piezoresistive Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube Polymer Composites with Different Filler Content and Aspect Ratio for Pressure Sensors
Authors: Yoo Jongchan , Kim Dong-Young , Lee Dong-Kwan , Nam Kunwoo , Park Sung-Hoon
Published: September 2023

Polymer composites enriched with conductive fillers hold immense potential for flexible pressure sensors, because of the remarkable piezoresistive effect they possess. Research on polymer composite pressure sensors has been actively ongoing because of their flexibility and high electrical resistance performance. This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of the piezoresistive characteristics of conductive composites for pressure sensors, focusing on the influence of carbon nanotube (CNT) content and aspect ratio. Polymer composites with conductive fillers, specifically CNTs, have demonstrated significant potential for pressure sensing applications based on the piezoresistive effect. By systematically varying the CNT concentration and aspect ratio, we investigated the impact of these parameters on the piezoresistive behavior of the composites. A pressure in the range of 0-200 kPa was applied to the conductive composite, and resistance change due to pressing was measured. The best performing samples were evaluated in 150 cycle tests to verify repeatability and durability. Experimental analysis and characterization revealed the intricate relationship between CNT content, aspect ratio, and the resulting piezoresistive properties. Through this study, we aim to enhance understanding of how CNT concentration and aspect ratio influence the performance of CNT/PDMS composites as pressure sensors, thereby facilitating the development of optimized sensing materials for various pressure sensing applications.
Influence of Elevated Temperature on the Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers
Authors: Lee Se Woong , Han Seulgi , Park Okmin , Kim Sang-il , Choi Sungmo
Published: September 2023

Glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRPs) have attracted significant attention as structural materials because of their high fatigue resistance, corrosion resistance, strength, and stiffness. This study examined the effect of elevated temperatures (150, 250, 350, and 450oC) on the microstructural and mechanical properties of GFRP plates. The number of bubbles increased as the firing temperature increased, and the bubbles burst at 250oC or higher, forming pores on the surface. A tensile test was conducted, and the maximum stress of the GFRP plates fired at 150, 250, and 350oC was reduced from 54.2 to 52.2, 40.3, and 24.0 MPa, respectively, compared to that of the unfired GFRP plate. Meanwhile, the elastic moduli of the GFRP plates fired at 150, 250, and 350oC reduced from 19.1 to 18.3, 16.1, and 12.1 GPa, respectively, compared to that of the unfired GFRP plate. This reduction in the mechanical properties of the GFRP plates at elevated temperatures was attributed to the degradation of the mechanical properties of the resin matrix due to glass transition and decomposition, debonding, and an increase in surface defects. The maximum strain decreased gradually with increasing firing temperature, suggesting that the brittleness of the GFRP plates increased at elevated temperatures.
TAFSIR AHKAM: KID CUSTODY RIGHTS DUE TO PARENT LEAVING ISLAM PERSPECTIVE OF FIQH AND THE COMPILATION OF ISLAMIC LAW
Authors: Al Amin Habibi
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this research is to analyze and produce an overview of the determination of child custody status due to the mother leaving Islam. This research is a qualitative library research. The technique used in analyzing the data in this study, using descriptive-analytical method, to explain in general the thoughts of Husein Muhammad. This type of research is normative juridical research (library recearh), namely research by studying and examining written sources by studying, examining and examining library materials that have relevance to the discussion material. This research is descriptive analysis, which describes and compares the rules of Islamic law with the compilation of Islamic law. The research data is sourced from two sources, namely the Compilation of Islamic law and fiqh books of four madhhabs.
Fractional-order projection of a chaotic system with hidden attractors and its passivity-based synchronization
Authors: Serrano Fernando E. , Munoz-Pacheco Jesus M. , Flores Marco A.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the fractional-order projection of a chaotic system, which delivers a collection of self-excited and hidden chaotic attractors as a function of a single system parameter. Based on an integer-order chaotic system and the proposed transformation, the fractional-order chaotic system obtains when the divergence of integer and fractional vector fields flows in the same direction. Phase portraits, bifurcation diagrams, and Lyapunov exponents validate the chaos generation. Apart from these results, two passivity-based fractional control laws are designed effectively for the integer and fractional-order chaotic systems. In both cases, the synchronization schemes depend on suitable storage functions given by the fractional Lyapunov theory. Several numerical experiments confirm the proposed approach and agree well with the mathematical deductions.
Application of conjugated materials in sports training
Authors: Zhu Kun , Zhao Longfei
Published: September 2023

In recent years, with the rapid development of the sports industry, the quality of sports training products on the market is uneven. Problems such as inaccurate detection of athletes’ physical indicators, low comfort of sportswear, and reduced satisfaction with sports equipment often occur. To this end, this article proposes to apply conjugated materials with excellent optical, electrical, thermal and other properties to sports training and sports products, by summarizing the properties of conjugated materials and their applications in sports training, explores the potential of conjugated materials in improving athletes’ training effects, monitoring sports status, and improving sports equipment. This article rates the application of conjugated materials in sports training products in terms of comfort, waterproofness, portability, lightness, aesthetics and breathability. The results showed that the average scores of the 20 sports participants on sportswear were 9.0475, 9.0075, 9.01, 9.025, 9.0325 and 9.04 respectively; the average scores on sports shoes were 9.035, 9.055, 9.02, 9.085, 9.0175 and 8.9975 respectively. Research shows that applying conjugated materials to sports training can improve athletes’ performance and contribute to the better development of sports.
Airway epithelial cells mount an early response to mycobacterial infection
Authors: Barclay Amy M. , Ninaber Dennis K. , van Veen Suzanne , Hiemstra Pieter S. , Ottenhoff Tom H. M. , van der Does Anne M. , Joosten Simone A.
Published: September 2023

Lung epithelial cells represent the first line of host defence against foreign inhaled components, including respiratory pathogens. Their responses to these exposures may direct subsequent immune activation to these pathogens. The epithelial response to mycobacterial infections is not well characterized and may provide clues to why some mycobacterial infections are cleared, while others are persistent and pathogenic. We have utilized an air-liquid interface model of human primary bronchial epithelial cells (ALI-PBEC) to investigate the epithelial response to infection with a variety of mycobacteria: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), M. bovis (BCG), M. avium, and M. smegmatis. Airway epithelial cells were found to be infected by all four species, albeit at low frequencies. The proportion of infected epithelial cells was lowest for Mtb and highest for M. avium. Differential gene expression analysis revealed a common epithelial host response to mycobacteria, including upregulation of BIRC3, S100A8 and DEFB4, and downregulation of BPIFB1 at 48 h post infection. Apical secretions contained predominantly pro-inflammatory cytokines, while basal secretions contained tissue growth factors and chemokines. Finally, we show that neutrophils were attracted to both apical and basal secretions of infected ALI-PBEC. Neutrophils were attracted in high numbers to apical secretions from PBEC infected with all mycobacteria, with the exception of secretions from M. avium-infected ALI-PBEC. Taken together, our results show that airway epithelial cells are differentially infected by mycobacteria, and react rapidly by upregulation of antimicrobials, and increased secretion of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines which directly attract neutrophils. Thus, the airway epithelium may be an important immunological component in controlling and regulating mycobacterial infections.
Myocardial oxidative stress is increased in early reperfusion, but systemic antioxidative therapy does not prevent ischemia-reperfusion arrhythmias in pigs
Authors: Haugsten Hansen Marie , Sadredini Mani , Hasic Almira , Eriksen Morten , Stokke Mathis Korseberg
Published: September 2023

Background

Arrhythmias in the early phase of reperfusion after myocardial infarction (MI) are common, and can lead to hemodynamic instability or even cardiac arrest. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are thought to play a key role in the underlying mechanisms, but evidence from large animal models is scarce, and effects of systemic antioxidative treatment remain contentious.

Methods

MI was induced in 7 male and 7 female pigs (Norwegian landrace, 35–40 kg) by clamping of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) during open thorax surgery. Ischemia was maintained for 90 min, before observation for 1 h after reperfusion. Pigs were randomized 1:1 in an operator-blinded fashion to receive either i.v. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) from 70 min of ischemia and onwards, or 0.9% NaCl as a control. Blood samples and tissue biopsies were collected at baseline, 60 min of ischemia, and 5 and 60 min of reperfusion. ECG and invasive blood pressure were monitored throughout.

Results

The protocol was completed in 11 pigs. Oxidative stress, as indicated by immunoblotting for Malondialdehyde in myocardial biopsies, was increased at 5 min of reperfusion compared to baseline, but not at 60 min of reperfusion, and not reduced with NAC. We found no significant differences in circulating biomarkers of myocardial necrosis, nor in the incidence of idioventricular rhythm (IVR), non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT), ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) between NAC-treated and control pigs during reperfusion.

Conclusion

Myocardial oxidation was increased early after reperfusion in a porcine model of MI, but systemic antioxidative treatment did not protect against reperfusion arrhythmias.
Groundwater trace element changes were probably induced by the ML3.3 earthquake in Chaoyang district, Beijing
Authors: Chen Yuxuan , Liu Jianbo
Published: September 2023

Geochemical composition changes in groundwater related to earthquakes have been documented in previous studies, and most such studies focused on the changes in major ions, hydrogen, oxygen isotopes, and geochemical gases. Changes in trace elements were suggested to be more sensitive to small earthquakes than the commonly used chemical constituents such as major ions, yet they received less attention. Beijing is located in the Zhangjiakou-Bohai seismic belt and experiences frequent occurrences of small earthquakes. In this paper, we collected groundwater samples from a hot spring in Yanqing district of Beijing weekly from August 2021 to August 2022. Each water sample contained 41 trace chemical compositions. During the sampling, an earthquake with a magnitude of ML3.3 occurred in the Chaoyang district of Beijing on 3 February 2022, so these trace elements changes were systematically monitored before and after the earthquake: Li, Sc, Ti, and Pb elements had upward changes before the earthquake, while Cu, Nb, Th, Zn, Tl, and U elements had downward changes before the earthquake. Eu (rare earth elements) had upward changes after the earthquake. At the same time, the earthquake caused no significant changes in the groundwater level in the seismic monitoring well near the Songshan spring. Such responses indicate that trace elements are likely to be more sensitive to crustal strain than groundwater level. We considered that the earthquake-induced rock cracks before or after the earthquake caused enhancing water-rock interaction and led to the migration of trace elements between the water column and rocks, which is the mechanism to explain the trace elemental changes. This study probably provides a comprehensive assessment of the sensitivity of trace element constituents to the earthquake. Furthermore, we suggest that more long-term continuous monitoring and research of trace elements in Beijing and Zhangjiakou-Bohai Fault Zone should be considered to explore the response mechanism of groundwater geochemistry to earthquakes in the future.
Pre-service early childhood teachers’ perceptions of their playfulness and inquisitiveness
Authors: Hurme Tarja-Riitta , Siklander Signe , Kangas Marjaana , Melasalmi Anitta
Published: September 2023

Recognizing one’s own playfulness is important for early childhood education (ECE) teachers, who are responsible for organizing and implementing child-initiated pedagogy in ECE centers. Playfulness research has focused on children’s play and playfulness in workplaces, but playfulness as a part of ECE teachers’ pedagogical and adaptive expertise is rarely studied. Using multiple playfulness and innovativeness instruments, first- and third-year pre-service ECE teachers’ (n = 208) self-reported playfulness and inquisitiveness was examined. Correlation coefficients and Student t-tests were performed to examine the connections between playfulness, the facets of playfulness, and inquisitiveness, also between the first- and third-year pre-service ECE teachers. The results of the study show that playfulness, the facets of playfulness and inquisitiveness are connected. The results also show that although there were no statistically significant differences among the first- and third-year pre-service ECE teachers’ playfulness and inquisitiveness, they had different orientations towards playfulness. Additional research is needed to explore how in-service teachers and pre-service teachers can learn playfulness and inquisitiveness as a part of their pedagogical expertise. The results are implementable for designing, developing and evaluating ECE teacher education.
FCRL1 immunoregulation in B cell development and malignancy
Authors: Mamidi Murali K. , Huang Jifeng , Honjo Kazuhito , Li Ran , Tabengwa Edlue M. , Neeli Indira , Randall Nar’asha L. , Ponnuchetty Manasa V. , Radic Marko , Leu Chuen-Miin , Davis Randall S.
Published: September 2023

Immunotherapeutic targeting of surface regulatory proteins and pharmacologic inhibition of critical signaling pathways has dramatically shifted our approach to the care of individuals with B cell malignancies. This evolution in therapy reflects the central role of the B cell receptor (BCR) signaling complex and its co-receptors in the pathogenesis of B lineage leukemias and lymphomas. Members of the Fc receptor-like gene family (FCRL1-6) encode cell surface receptors with complex tyrosine-based regulation that are preferentially expressed by B cells. Among them, FCRL1 expression peaks on naïve and memory B cells and is unique in terms of its intracellular co-activation potential. Recent studies in human and mouse models indicate that FCRL1 contributes to the formation of the BCR signalosome, modulates B cell signaling, and promotes humoral responses. Progress in understanding its regulatory properties, along with evidence for its over-expression by mature B cell leukemias and lymphomas, collectively imply important yet unmet opportunities for FCRL1 in B cell development and transformation. Here we review recent advances in FCRL1 biology and highlight its emerging significance as a promising biomarker and therapeutic target in B cell lymphoproliferative disorders.
Progress of research on PD-1/PD-L1 in leukemia
Authors: Cao Huizhen , Wu Tianyu , Zhou Xue , Xie Shuyang , Sun Hongfang , Sun Yunxiao , Li Youjie
Published: September 2023

Leukemia cells prevent immune system from clearing tumor cells by inducing the immunosuppression of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. In recent years, further understanding of the BM microenvironment and immune landscape of leukemia has resulted in the introduction of several immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors, T-cell engager, antibody drug conjugates, and cellular therapies in clinical trials. Among them, the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis is a significant checkpoint for controlling immune responses, the PD-1 receptor on tumor-infiltrating T cells is bound by PD-L1 on leukemia cells. Consequently, the activation of tumor reactive T cells is inhibited and their apoptosis is promoted, preventing the rejection of the tumor by immune system and thus resulting in the occurrence of immune tolerance. The PD-1/PD-L1 axis serves as a significant mechanism by which tumor cells evade immune surveillance, and PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of lymphomas and varieties of solid tumors. However, the development of drugs targeting PD-1/PD-L1 in leukemia remains in the clinical-trial stage. In this review, we tally up the basic research and clinical trials on PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in leukemia, as well as discuss the relevant toxicity and impacts of PD-1/PD-L1 on other immunotherapies such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, bi-specific T-cell engager, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy.
Organic soil fertility management practices for the management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), in maize
Authors: Bayissa Wakuma , Abera Asnake , Temesgen Jibril , Abera Gemechu , Mendesil Esayas
Published: September 2023

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a polyphagous pest native to the Americas. It attacks several crops but in particular causes significant damage to maize, which is a staple crop in Africa. Organic soil amendments have an impact on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, which enhance plant resistance to or tolerance of insect pests and also promote a diverse population of natural enemies of the pest. However, the practices followed for the management of crop residue and animal manure affect their use as organic soil amendments. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of maize residue and cattle manure incorporation into soil on FAW in the Mana and Omo Nada districts of the Jimma zone, southwest Ethiopia, during the 2018/19 cropping season. Treatment involved three factors: five different levels of maize residue retention (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%), different cattle manure storage systems (control, open, steel roof, and grass roof), and two different districts (Mana and Omo Nada). These variables were organized in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. The infestation and damage ratings were collected from 30 days after planting at 20-day intervals. The results indicated that maize plots with retained crop residue had a significant reduction in FAW infestation compared with plots without maize residue (control) in both study districts. Furthermore, manure-fertilized plants had a lower percentage of FAW infestation when compared with maize plots without cattle manure in both study districts. The lowest severity of FAW infestation was recorded in a plot with 100% of residue incorporated and treated with cattle manure stored under a grass roof in the Mana district. Therefore, conventional tillage with 100% maize residue incorporation and the application of cattle manure stored under a grass roof showed the best result for reducing FAW infestation in maize. However, further studies are important to determine the effect of treatments over seasons and locations on FAW infestation and maize yields.
IL-10 predicts the prognosis of patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure combined with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Liu Linxiang , Xiao Nanxi , Chen Peng , Zhu Xuan
Published: September 2023

Background

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is common in patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF). The prognostic value of interleukin-related serum markers for patients with ACLF is coming to the fore. However, there is an unmet need to predict the survival of such patients. We aimed to analyze the independent predictors of 28- and 90-day mortality in HBV-ACLF patients with SBP.

Methods

This was a retrospective study that included 368 patients with HBV-ACLF. In the SBP group, logistic regression analysis was used to understand the independent predictors of mortality at 28-day and 90-day. The accuracy of prediction was analyzed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Finally, decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to determine the clinical utility value.

Results

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) levels were statistically significantly different between the HBV-ACLF group with SBP and without. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), serum sodium, IL-10 and vasoactive drug treatment were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality. International normalized ratio (INR), AST and IL-10 were independent risk factors for 90-day mortality. IL-10 combined with the Chinese Severe Hepatitis B Study Group-ACLF II score (COSH-ACLF IIs) had excellent performance in predicting 28- and 90-day mortality (AUCs: 0.848 and 0.823, respectively). DCA analysis suggests promising clinical utility.

Conclusion

IL-10 is an independent predictor of mortality at 28- and 90-day in HBV-ACLF patients with SBP and predictive performance is improved when combined with COSH-ACLF IIs.
Association between geriatric nutritional risk index and 28 days mortality in elderly patients with sepsis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Ling , Lu Xiuhong , Qin Shuangwen , Huang Debin
Published: September 2023

Background

There is a significant controversy surrounding the impact of the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) on mortality among elderly septic patients. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between GNRI at admission and 28 days mortality in elderly septic patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data collected from the MIMIC IV database between 2009 and 2019, which included 2,834 septic patients aged 65 years and above. The exposure variable was the GNRI, determined according to albumin levels, height, and weight. The primary outcome was 28 days mortality. We employed multivariable Cox regression analyses and Kaplan–Meier survival curves to examine the association between GNRI and 28 days mortality. We used restricted cubic splines to determine if there was a non-linear relationship between 28 days mortality and GNRI in elderly patients with sepsis and to examine the presence of a threshold saturation effect. In addition, interaction tests were conducted to identify subgroups that exhibited significant differences.

Results

A total of 2,834 elderly patients with sepsis participated in the study. Following adjustment, multivariable Cox regression analyses demonstrated that the GNRI was related to 28 days mortality (HR = 0.97, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.97–0.98). An L-shaped connection between GNRI and 28 days mortality was discovered via restricted cubic spline analysis, with an inflection point of 98.1. On the left side of the inflection point, GNRI levels were significantly negatively linked with 28 days mortality (HR = 0.967, 95% CI: 0.959–0.974; p < 0.001), and on the right side, there was no significant correlation (HR = 1.043, 95% CI: 0.984–1.106; p = 0.1549).

Conclusion

In this analysis of data from a large cohort of elderly septic patients, GNRI scores on admission were correlated with a 28 days risk of death from sepsis in the elderly suggesting that GNRI scores could serve as a valuable indicator for evaluating mortality rates among elderly septic patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).
Pathogenicity assessment of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli strains isolated from wild birds in a major agricultural region in California
Authors: Carter Michelle Qiu , Quiñones Beatriz , Laniohan Nicole , Carychao Diana , Pham Antares , He Xiaohua , Cooley Michael
Published: September 2023

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) consists of diverse strains differing in genetic make-up and virulence potential. To better understand the pathogenicity potential of STEC carried by the wildlife, three STEC and one E. coli strains isolated from wild birds near a major agricultural region in California were selected for comparative pathogenomic analyses. Three American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) strains, RM9088, RM9513, and RM10410, belonging to phylogroup A with serotypes O109:H48, O9:H30, and O113:H4, respectively, and a red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) strain RM14516 in phylogroup D with serotype O17:H18, were examined. Shiga toxin genes were identified in RM9088 (stx1a), RM10410 (stx1a + stx2d), and RM14516 (stx2a). Unlike STEC O157:H7 strain EDL933, none of the avian STEC strains harbored the pathogenicity islands OI-122, OI-57, and the locus of enterocyte effacement, therefore the type III secretion system biogenesis genes and related effector genes were absent in the three avian STEC genomes. Interestingly, all avian STEC strains exhibited greater (RM9088 and RM14516) or comparable (RM10410) cytotoxicity levels compared with EDL933. Comparative pathogenomic analyses revealed that RM9088 harbored numerous genes encoding toxins, toxins delivery systems, and adherence factors, including heat-labile enterotoxin, serine protease autotransporter toxin Pic, type VI secretion systems, protein adhesin Paa, fimbrial adhesin K88, and colonization factor antigen I. RM9088 also harbored a 36-Kb high pathogenicity island, which is related to iron acquisition and pathogenicity in Yersinia spp. Strain RM14516 carried an acid fitness island like the one in EDL933, containing a nine gene cluster involved in iron acquisition. Genes encoding extracellular serine protease EspP, subtilase cytotoxin, F1C fimbriae, and inverse autotransporter adhesin IatC were only detected in RM14516, and genes encoding serine protease autotransporter EspI and P fimbriae were only identified in RM10410. Although all curli genes were present in avian STEC strains, production of curli fimbriae was only detected for RM9088 and RM14516. Consistently, strong, moderate, and little biofilms were observed for RM9088, RM14516, and RM10410, respectively. Our study revealed novel combinations of virulence factors in two avian strains, which exhibited high level of cytotoxicity and strong biofilm formation. Comparative pathogenomics is powerful in assessing pathogenicity and health risk of STEC strains.
An increase in erythromycin resistance in methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus from blood correlates with the use of macrolide/lincosamide/streptogramin antibiotics. EARS-Net Spain (2004–2020)
Authors: El Mammery Achraf , Ramírez de Arellano Eva , Cañada-García Javier E. , Cercenado Emilia , Villar-Gómara Laura , Casquero-García Verónica , García-Cobos Silvia , Lepe José Antonio , Ruiz de Gopegui Bordes Enrique , Calvo-Montes Jorge , Larrosa Escartín Nieves , Cantón Rafael , Pérez-Vázquez María , Aracil Belén , Oteo-Iglesias Jesús
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To describe and analyse erythromycin resistance trends in blood isolates of Staphylococcus aureus (EARS-Net Spain, 2004–2020) and the association of these trends with the consumption of macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B (MLSB) antibiotics. To assess molecular changes that could be involved in erythromycin resistance trends by whole genome analysis of representative isolates.

Materials and methods

We collected antibiotic susceptibility data for all first-blood S. aureus isolates in patients from 47 Spanish hospitals according to EARS-Net criteria. MLSB antibiotic consumption was obtained from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (2008–2020). We sequenced 137 representative isolates for core genome multilocus sequence typing, resistome and virulome analysis.

Results

For the 36,612 invasive S. aureus isolates, methicillin resistance decreased from 26.4% in 2004 to 22.4% in 2020. Erythromycin resistance in methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) increased from 13.6% in 2004 to 28.9% in 2020 (p < 0.001); however, it decreased from 68.7 to 61.8% (p < 0.0001) in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Total consumption of MLSB antibiotics increased from 2.72 defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants per day (DID) in 2014 to 3.24 DID in 2016. By WGS, the macrolide resistance genes detected were erm (59.8%), msrA (46%), and mphC (45.2%). The erm genes were more prevalent in MSSA (44/57, 77.2%) than in MRSA (38/80, 47.5%). Most of the erm genes identified in MSSA after 2013 differed from the predominant ermC gene (17/22, 77.3%), largely because ermT was significantly associated with MSSA after 2013 (11/29, 37.9%). All 13 ermT isolates in this study, except one, belonged to ST398 and came from 10 hospitals and six Spanish provinces.

Conclusion

The significant increase in erythromycin resistance in blood MSSA correlated with the consumption of the MLSB antibiotics in Spain. These preliminary data seem support the hypothesis that the human ST398 MSSA clade with ermT-mediated resistance to erythromycin may be involved in this trend.
The two-component system CpxAR is required for the high potassium stress survival of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Wan Jiajia , Zhang Rui , Jia Yizhen , Xie Tingting , Dai Lu , Yao Qing , Zhang Wendie , Xiao Huasong , Gao Xuejun , Huang Jing , Bei Weicheng , Liu Feng
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is an important respiratory pathogen, which can cause porcine contagious pleuropneumonia and lead to great economic losses to worldwide swine industry. High potassium is an adverse environment for bacteria, which is not conducive to providing turgor pressure for cell growth and division. Two-component system CpxAR is an important regulatory system of bacteria in response to environmental changes, which is involved in a variety of biological activities, such as antibiotic resistance, periplasmic protein folding, peptidoglycan metabolism and so on.

Methods

However, little is known about the role of CpxAR in high potassium stress in A. pleuropneumoniae. Here, we showed that CpxAR is critical for cell division of A. pleuropneumoniae under high potassium (K+) stress.

Results

qRT-PCR analysis found that CpxAR positively regulated the cell division genes ftsEX. In addition, we also demonstrated that CpxR-P could directly bind the promoter region of the cell division gene ftsE by EMSA.

Discussion

In conclusion, our results described a mechanism where CpxAR adjusts A. pleuropneumoniae survival under high-K+ stress by upregulating the expression of the cell division proteins FtsE and FtsX. These findings are the first to directly demonstrate CpxAR-mediated high-K+ tolerance, and to investigate the detailed molecular mechanism.
Gut macrobiotic and its metabolic pathways modulate cardiovascular disease
Authors: Zhu Junwen , Lyu Jin , Zhao Ruochi , Liu Gang , Wang Shuangshuang
Published: September 2023

Thousands of microorganisms reside in the human gut, and extensive research has demonstrated the crucial role of the gut microbiota in overall health and maintaining homeostasis. The disruption of microbial populations, known as dysbiosis, can impair the host’s metabolism and contribute to the development of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, a growing body of evidence indicates that metabolites produced by the gut microbiota play a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. These bioactive metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), trimethylamine (TMA), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), bile acids (BAs), and lipopolysaccharides (LPS), are implicated in conditions such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. These metabolites impact cardiovascular function through various pathways, such as altering the composition of the gut microbiota and activating specific signaling pathways. Targeting the gut microbiota and their metabolic pathways represents a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Intervention strategies, such as probiotic drug delivery and fecal transplantation, can selectively modify the composition of the gut microbiota and enhance its beneficial metabolic functions, ultimately leading to improved cardiovascular outcomes. These interventions hold the potential to reshape the gut microbial community and restore its balance, thereby promoting cardiovascular health. Harnessing the potential of these microbial metabolites through targeted interventions offers a novel avenue for tackling cardiovascular health issues. This manuscript provides an in-depth review of the recent advances in gut microbiota research and its impact on cardiovascular health and offers a promising avenue for tackling cardiovascular health issues through gut microbiome-targeted therapies.
Recent progress in the effect of ferroptosis of HSCs on the development of liver fibrosis
Authors: Tang Rui , Luo Jing , Zhu Xiaoxia , Miao Pengyu , Tang Hong , Jian Yue , Ruan Sibei , Ling Feng , Tang Mingxi
Published: September 2023

Fibrosis is a common pathological process that must take place for multiple chronic liver diseases to develop into cirrhosis and liver cancer. Liver fibrosis (LF) is regulated by various cytokines and signaling pathways in its occurrence and development. Ferroptosis is an important mode of cell death caused by iron-dependent oxidative damage and is regulated by iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation signaling pathways. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that ferroptosis is closely related to LF. As the main material secreted by the extracellular matrix, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are a general concern in the development of LF. Therefore, targeting HSC ferroptosis against LF is crucial. This review describes the current status of treating LF by inducing HSC ferroptosis that would aid studies in better understanding the current knowledge on ferroptosis in HSCs and the future research direction in this field.