bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hábitos parafuncionais e a toxina botulínica: Uma revisão narrativa da literatura
Authors: Rodrigues Gislaine Priscila Leonel , Suguihara Roberto Teruo , Muknicka Daniella Pilon
Published: November 2023

Os hábitos parafuncionais, como o bruxismo, envolvem atividades musculares e dentárias anormais que podem causar disfunções orofaciais graves, incluindo desgaste dental, fraturas, dores na articulação temporomandibular e distúrbios do sono. A harmonização orofacial, que combina procedimentos estéticos e funcionais para melhorar a estética e função da região orofacial, desempenha um papel crucial na minimização dos efeitos prejudiciais do bruxismo. Isso envolve a utilização de placas de mordida personalizadas, aplicação de toxina botulínica para relaxar os músculos mastigatórios e reabilitação estética e funcional dos dentes danificados. A toxina botulínica, conhecida por suas aplicações em medicina estética e neurológica, tem se destacado como uma opção coadjuvante eficaz no tratamento do bruxismo. Agindo ao inibir a liberação de acetilcolina nas junções neuromusculares, ela reduz a força das contrações musculares durante episódios de bruxismo, aliviando a pressão nos dentes e na articulação temporomandibular. A abordagem é não invasiva e temporária, oferecendo uma alternativa atraente às técnicas tradicionais. No entanto, sua aplicação deve ser realizada por profissionais de saúde qualificados para garantir resultados seguros e eficazes. Portanto, a toxina botulínica emerge como uma promissora opção coadjuvante no manejo do bruxismo, contribuindo para a melhoria da qualidade de vida dos pacientes afetados por esses hábitos parafuncionais. Dessa forma, essa pesquisa de revisão narrativa da literatura, tem como objetivo demonstrar a produção literária científica sobre a possibilidade de aplicação de terapias coadjuvantes, como a toxina botulínica, no manejo dos hábitos parafuncionais, como o bruxismo.
Pemanfaatan visual branding melalui foto produk dalam meningkatkan daya saing UMKM
Authors: Furqorina Rizka , Triandika Lulus Sugeng , Agusalim Muhammad , Syarif Moh. , Firdaus Mohammad Iqbal
Published: November 2023

Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini berupa kegiatan peningkatan visual branding bagi Komunitas Perempuan Mandiri Sumber Perubahan (Preman Super) Kota Malang, Provinsi Jawa Timur. Permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh UMKM Komunitas Preman Super adalah belum mampu untuk membangun visual branding pada produk UMKM. Produk UMKM binaan Komunitas Preman Super antara lain memproduksi berbagai macam kerajinan tangan, aneka makanan kemasan, batik ecoprint, sepatu, dan produk lainnya. Mayoritas UMKM tersebut belum melakukan visual branding secara maksimal. Kendala utama dalam membangun citra produk yang dihadapi UMKM Binaan Preman Super adalah keterbatasan dalam menghasilkan foto produk yang proporsional. Foto produk dengan bantuan professional membutuhkan biaya yang besar. Solusi yang ditawarkan untuk UMKM binaan Komunitas Preman Super adalah melakukan pelatihan foto produk dan pendampingan untuk membentuk citra produk untuk meningkatkan daya saing UMKM Binaan Preman Super. Metode yang digunakan adalah Participatory Action Research (PAR). Materi pelatihan melingkupi Konsep dan Teknik Visual Branding untuk membangun citra produk dan meningkatkan penjualan. Kemudian ditambah dengan pelatihan dan praktik foto produk. Hasil dari pelatihan ini peserta UMKM mampu melakukan foto produk sederhana secara mandiri dengan bantuan mini studio portable, peserta juga merasa lebih percaya diri untuk memotret produk mereka dengan peralatan sederhana.
Multi-index evaluation of fish habitat in a cascaded hydropower reservoir of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Zheng W , Wang S , Lv Z , Zhang P , Yang Z , Chang J
Published: November 2023

Cascaded hydropower development in rivers has a greater negative impact on native fish than a single hydropower station. The effectiveness of commonly used measures to restore fish resources, such as ecological discharges, depends largely on reliable assessments of habitat quality. In this study, we developed a synthesized habitat quality index (SHQI) by combining the habitat suitability index (HSI) and habitat fragmentation indices to evaluate the fish habitat in the Longkaikou (LKK) reservoir between the Jinanqiao (JAQ) and LKK dams in the upper Yangtze River. We coupled a 2-dimensional physical habitat model and a fuzzy-logic habitat suitability model for spawning and juvenileCoreius guichenoti, an Endangered fish endemic to the Jinsha River basin. The impact of the JAQ reservoir flow and the impoundment level of the LKK reservoir were considered to analyze variation in habitat quality. The results revealed that habitat suitability and fragment conditions were, to some extent, spatially inconsistent. The SHQI suggested lentic areas could benefit juvenile fish more than lotic zones with higher quality but less connectivity. A higher impounded level of the LKK reservoir may be more favorable for juvenile fish in the lentic area. Only the lotic area was suitable for fish spawning, and a lower discharge from the JAQ reservoir and lower impounded level of the LKK reservoir could be more beneficial, with optimal values of 560 m3s-1and 1294 m, respectively. This study proposes a comprehensive assessment method for habitat quality that could provide scientific support for the conservation of fish resources and populations in cascaded hydropower developments.
Az ügynök: Harari, avagy hogyan (ne) tanítsunk történelmet képregénnyel (Második rész)
Authors: Domokos Áron , Molnár Gábor
Published: November 2023

Háromrészes írásunk, amelynek ez a második része, Yuval Noah Harari Sapiens című világtörténelmi ismeretterjesztő könyvének képregényváltozatát vizsgálja és értékeli abból a szempontból, hogy mennyire alkalmas oktatási célokra. Az előző számban olvasható első részben abba az elmúlt évtizedekben folyó vitába kapcsolódtunk be, amely a képregény mint mcluhani értelemben vett hideg médium pedagógiai használhatóságáról szól. Saját álláspontunk megfogalmazásához Paolo Freire radikális kritikai pedagógiájából indultunk ki, de a képregénypedagógia újabb eredményeit is bevontuk a tárgyalásba. Ezután Harari sikerkönyveinek, köztük a Sapiensnek és a belőle készült Sapiens – Rajzolt történelem című képregénynek a kiadástörténetét rekonstruáltuk. Rámutattunk arra, hogy az eredeti mű sikere összefügg a hasonló jellegű, úgynevezett „agyas könyvek” iránti kereslet nagy mértékű növekedésével a 2010-es évek közepén, noha úgy láttuk, hogy a teljes magyarázathoz további tényezőket is fel kell tárni. Ezt írásunk jelen és következő részében végezzük el. Az alább olvasható második részben először Harari munkásságának recepcióját elemezzük három területen: a nemzetközi politikai, üzleti és kulturális elit körében, a nyomtatott és elektronikus sajtó részéről (alapvetően a magyar nyelvű újságírásra koncentrálva) és végül az általános (nemzetközi és hazai) olvasóközönség körében. Ezt követően térünk rá a művek kritikai elemzésére, elsőként a Sapiens – Rajzolt történelem képregényelméleti és pedagógiai-didaktikai szempontú értékelésére. E vonatkozásban jórészt kedvező a róla alkotott ítéletünk, a képregényben valóban kiváló művészi és didaktikai megoldásokat találnunk. A következő elemzési szempontok szerint haladunk: a mű narratív strukturáltsága, világépítő teljesítménye és időkezelése; az ábrázolt karakterek; a műbe beépített zsánerek és popkulturális utalások; a humor és az önreferencialitás; valamint a mű megcélzott közönsége. Az utolsó részben végül, amely a következő számban jelenik meg, a könyv és a képregény filozófiai, illetve ideológiakritikai elemzését nyújtjuk. Megvizsgáljuk a bennük tükröződő ember-, társadalom- és történelemképet, alapvető filozófiai előfeltevéseiket, valamint ideológiai elkötelezettségüket. Harari könyvét a kortárs fősodorbeli liberális történelemszemlélet egyik legjellegzetesebb képviselőjeként mutatjuk be. Azt is szemügyre vesszük azonban, hogy a képregény médiumába történő átültetés során az eredeti könyv jellemzői hogyan változnak meg: felerősödnek, torzulnak, elvésznek, vagy ellentmondásokkal telítődnek. Figyelmünk fókuszában a médiaváltás nyílt és rejtett céljai és e célok teljesülése áll. Néhány alkalmasan megválasztott példán keresztül azt elemezzük, hogy az ifjabb generációkat célzó ismeretterjesztés mikor és hogyan fordul át burkolt propagandába.
Hypokalemic Paralysis Due to Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis, Case Report
Authors: Karaarslan Fatma Nur
Published: November 2023

Distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) is a metabolic disease characterized by hypokalemia, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis and urine pH above 5.5. These findings may be accompanied by hypercalciuria, nephrocalcinosis, nephrolithiasis, jaundice, osteomalacia or rickets in children. Although hypokalemia is frequently seen as a laboratory finding in dRTA, weakness, which is the clinical finding of this deficiency, is rare. A 33-year-old female patient was brought to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of weakness, loss of strength in the extremities, and difficulty in breathing. Laboratory analyzes of the patient revealed metabolic acidosis and hypokalemia. Urea and creatinine values were normal. The patient was admitted to the internal medicine department with a preliminary diagnosis of dRTA and hypokalemic paralysis. Initially, parenteral infusion of KCl and NaHCO3 was administered in the treatment. In the follow-up of the patient, it was observed that hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis improved from the 3rd day and clinical findings improved within 36 hours following the replacement therapy. dRTA, which is rare in adults, is among the secondary causes of hypokalemic paralysis. dRTA should be considered among the differential diagnoses in the presence of hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis in patients presenting with bilateral weakness.
A Rare Case of Rickettsia and Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Co-infection in a Male Patient with Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Baddal Buket , Bostancı Aysegul , Aksoy Tutku , Kucukciloglu Yasemin , Süer Kaya
Published: November 2023

Herpes simplex viruses (HSVs) belong to the Herpesviridae family. Close contact is the primary mode of transmission for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, leading to a persistent lifelong infection. HSVs are widely recognized as causative agents of viral infections affecting the central nervous system, capable of presenting as both meningitis and encephalitis. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the predominant viral cause of encephalitis, accounting for the majority of cases. Here, a rare co-infection case of meningoencephalitis, associated with HSV-1 and rickettsia is described. A 42-year-old man presenting with non-remitting headache for 6 days, fever, sweating, and muscle aches was admitted to the Emergency Department. His Weil-Felix test was positive for Proteus OX2 indicating rickettsial infection. Therapy started promptly however patient’s condition deteriorated. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed lymphocytic pleocytosis, and elevated protein concentration. CSF molecular analysis was positive for HSV-1. His cranial MRI indicated cytotoxic edema and gyral enhancement at the right temporal lobe. He was administered acyclovir for 14 days during hospital stay and was successfully discharged. This case report highlights that HSV-1 meningoencephalitis can co-occur with rickettsia infection in immunocompetent individuals, and co-infection with other agents should always be considered to avoid the progression of the disease.
Acute Systemic Toxicity Associated with Ingestion of Juniper Tar
Authors: Özdamar Yasemin , Demir Mehmet Cihat
Published: November 2023

Juniper Tar has been utilized in traditional folk medicine to treat various ailments. Despite its historical use, documented cases are scarce regarding the potential complications associated with Juniper Tar, some of which have been fatal. A 62-year-old male patient with no previous medical history presented to the emergency department complaining of confusion and respiratory distress after drinking a glass of Juniper Tar approximately four hours ago. The patient, who experienced multiple seizures and cardiac arrest at the emergency department, was discharged after an 11-day intensive care unit monitoring period. We present this case to raise awareness among emergency physicians about Juniper Tar, which is widely used for various purposes in folk medicine and cosmetics but can cause poisoning due to its content of essential oils, triterpenes, and phenols. This is a case of cardiac arrest and status epilepticus associated with juniper tar poisoning.
Авторська географія часопису«Kwartalnik Historyczny» (1887-1914)
Authors: Lazurko Lidiia , Тsymbal Tetiana
Published: November 2023

Мета статті – розкрити механізми формування та динаміку змін грона авторів часопису «Kwartalnik Historyczny» з погляду їх географічної локалізації упродовж 1887-1914 рр.

Наукова новизна дослідження полягає у тому, що вперше на основі джерельних матеріалів (звітів засідань Історичного товариства, редакційних матеріалів, кореспонденції, наукових досліджень) здійснено аналіз трансформації авторської географії часопису «Kwartalnik Historyczny» впродовж першого періоду його діяльності у Львові.

Висновки. Процеси інституціоналізації львівського історіографічного середовища кінця XIX ст. призвели до створення першої польської організації професійних істориків – Історичного товариства та часопису «Kwartalnik Historyczny». Попри виразну його регіональність, що декларувалося у завданнях і виражалося у тематиці досліджень, потреба тримати руку на пульсі наукового життя актуалізувала непросту з логістичного та фінансового поглядів проблему залучення до співпраці з часописом авторів з-поза меж Галичини. Результатом редакційної політики стало те, що у перший період існування часопису на його сторінках було надруковано праці понад трьох сотень авторів. З них 83% працювало в Галичині, а 17% дослідників представляли польські землі під владою Росії та Пруссії і закордонні осередки.

Узагальнені дані з авторської географії співпрацівників часопису у довоєнний період виглядають так: половина співпрацівників «Kwartalnika Historycznego» були зі Львова, третина – з Кракова, п’ята частина – з Варшави й інших місцевостей. Це дозволяє констатувати, що видання було не лише модератором львівських дослідників минулого, а й забезпечувало інтелектуальну взаємодію усіх розпорошених європейськими академічними осередками польських учених та їхніх колег з інших національних середовищ.
Російсько-українська війна 1917-1918 рр. і боротьба за українську ідентичність у дискурсі газети «Січ»: погляд із сьогодення
Authors: Ihnatusha Olexandr
Published: November 2023

Мета статті – оцінити суспільну роль першої у м. Олександрівську (нині – Запоріжжя) україномовної газети «Січ» (1918 р.) при висвітленні та характеристиці ключових для громадсько-політичного життя подій російсько-української війни та утвердження української ідентичності.

Наукова новизна. Оцінено роль газети «Січ» у боротьбі за українську ідентичність на Запоріжжі в умовах російсько-української війни 1917-1918 рр. Розкрито зміст і глибину суспільної думки, репрезентованої редакторами й авторами публікацій щодо найбільш актуальних питань часу: причин, характеру, перспектив боротьби України проти Росії, умов миру, встановлення кордонів, гарантії безпеки України. Уточнено хронологію виходу газети «Січ», охарактеризовано склад її редакційної комісії.

Висновки. Газета «Січ» позиціонувала себе як надпартійний демократичний часопис українських організацій і виражала інтереси переважної більшості корінного населення запорізького краю – селян, робітників, української інтелігенції. Вона відігравала вагому роль в інформаційній війні України проти Росії, про що свідчить значний обсяг статей на тему українсько-російських відносин і глибина їх аналізу – від історичного минулого до пошуку перспектив у майбутньому. Спектр публікацій газети охоплював різні жанри, широку тематику, глибину та яскравість відображення подій, засвідчуючи високий рівень журналістської компетентності членів редакційної комісії газети та її видавців, і, водночас, високий рівень національної свідомості та патріотизму середовища, на яке вона була розрахована. Публікації газети відзначалися критичністю оцінок, реалістичністю відображення ситуації, оригінальністю поглядів на події та процеси, яскравістю мови й образів, художніх прийомів, застосованих для досягнення творчої мети. Публіцистика газети «Січ» в умовах російської агресії проти України була наскрізь українською, патріотичною, пронизаною ідеалами боротьби за українську ідентичність, державну та національно-культурну незалежність.

Встановлено, що підняті у 1918 р. газетою «Січ» питання є надзвичай актуальними для сучасної України в умовах чергової хвилі російської агресії, що набула широкомасштабного виміру у 2022-2023 рр., і свідчать про ще неосягнені необхідні ступені національної єдності українців і ментальні архетипи її російських ворогів.
Радянська гендерна політика 1920-х рр.: запорізький вимір
Authors: Savchenko Iryna
Published: November 2023

Метою статті є висвітлення радянської гендерної політики щодо жінок на Запоріжжі у 1920-х рр., розкриття її основних завдань, інструментів, засобів реалізації та результатів.

Наукова новизна статті полягає у комплексному розкритті завдань і напрямів реалізації радянської гендерної політики на Запоріжжі у 1920-х рр., зокрема висвітленні особливостей залучення жінок до виробництва, членства в більшовицькій партії, проведенні компанії лікнепу. Висвітлено результати емансипаційних практик на матеріалі Запорізького краю.

Висновки. Гендерна політика 1920-х рр. на Запоріжжі мала типовий перелік завдань, основною метою яких мала стати радянська емансипація жінки: збільшення ролі жінок у виробництві, зменшення зайнятості побутовими питаннями, підвищення їх освітнього рівня та представництва у більшовицькій партії. Провідна роль в емансипаційній діяльності відводилася делегатському руху, який через охоплення широкого кола учасниць мав прискорити радянізацію жіноцтва. Водночас, через стійкість традиційних гендерних відносин і гендерного розподілу праці в регіоні виконання емансипаційних завдань мало обмежену успішність. Так, кількісні показники делегатського руху зростали, але реальна зацікавленість у ньому жінок в другій половині 1920-х рр. йшла на спад.

«Втягнення» жінок до виробництва, не дивлячись збільшення їх чисельності на низці великих підприємств, не змінило структуру гендерного розподілу зайнятості у промисловості регіону. Навіть на великих промислових підприємствах міста Запоріжжя, де діяльність окржінвідділу була найбільш послідовною, частка жінок серед робітників не досягла 9% на кінець 1920-х рр. Водночас жінки отримали більш широкі можливості для праці з будівництвом ДніпроГЕСу.

Декларативна важливість питання з розширення представництва жінок у більшовицькій партії зумовила, поруч з усталеними практиками (як прийом жінок до партії на 8 березня), пошук інструментів з їх «рекрутування» на початку 1920-х рр. Однак на кінець 1920-х рр. частка жінок в більшовицькій партії залишилася фактично не змінною (за даними Запорізької округи – 10%). Обмеженими були успіхи з ліквідації жіночої неписьменності та розвитку соціальної інфраструктури. Однак всі ці практики з радянської емансипації стимулювали активність жінок, і надавали додаткові можливості для їх реалізації.
Unlocking microalgal host—exploring dark-growing microalgae transformation for sustainable high-value phytochemical production
Authors: Jareonsin Surumpa , Mahanil Kanjana , Phinyo Kittiya , Srinuanpan Sirasit , Pekkoh Jeeraporn , Kameya Masafumi , Arai Hiroyuki , Ishii Masaharu , Chundet Ruttaporn , Sattayawat Pachara , Pumas Chayakorn
Published: November 2023

Microalgae have emerged as a promising, next-generation sustainable resource with versatile applications, particularly as expression platforms and green cell factories. They possess the ability to overcome the limitations of terrestrial plants, such non-arable land, water scarcity, time-intensive growth, and seasonal changes. However, the heterologous expression of interested genes in microalgae under heterotrophic cultivation (dark mode) remains a niche area within the field of engineering technologies. In this study, the green microalga, Chlorella sorokiniana AARL G015 was chosen as a potential candidate due to its remarkable capacity for rapid growth in complete darkness, its ability to utilize diverse carbon sources, and its potential for wastewater treatment in a circular bioeconomy model. The aims of this study were to advance microalgal genetic engineering via dark cultivation, thereby positioning the strain as promising dark-host for expressing heterologous genes to produce high-value phytochemicals and ingredients for food and feed. To facilitate comprehensive screening based on resistance, eleven common antibiotics were tested under heterotrophic condition. As the most effective selectable markers for this strain, G418, hygromycin, and streptomycin exhibited growth inhibition rates of 98%, 93%, and 92%, respectively, ensuring robust long-term transgenic growth. Successful transformation was achieved through microalgal cell cocultivation with Agrobacterium under complete darkness verified through the expression of green fluorescence protein and β-glucuronidase. In summary, this study pioneers an alternative dark-host microalgal platform, using, Chlorella, under dark mode, presenting an easy protocol for heterologous gene transformation for microalgal host, devoid of the need for expensive equipment and light for industrial production. Furthermore, the developed genetic transformation methodology presents a sustainable way for production of high-value nutrients, dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, proteins and pharmaceuticals using heterotrophic microalgae as an innovative host system.
Impact of GAD65 and IA2 autoantibodies on islet allograft survival
Authors: Lemos Joana R. N. , Poggioli Raffaella , Ambut Jonathan , Bozkurt Nujen C. , Alvarez Ana M. , Padilla Nathalia , Vendrame Francesco , Ricordi Camillo , Baidal David A. , Alejandro Rodolfo
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Islet transplantation (ITx) shows promise in treating T1D, but the role of islet autoantibodies on graft survival has not been clearly elucidated. We aimed to analyze the effect of GAD65 and IA2 autoantibody status on graft survival and attainment of insulin independence in subjects with T1D who underwent ITx.

Method

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 47 ITx recipients from 2000 to 2018. Islet infusion was performed via intrahepatic portal (n=44) or onto the omentum via laparoscopic approach (n=3). Immunosuppression involved anti-IL2 receptor antibody, anti-TNF, and dual combinations of sirolimus, tacrolimus, or mycophenolate mofetil (Edmonton-like) in 38 subjects (80.9%). T-cell depletion induction with Edmonton-like maintenance was used in 9 subjects (19%). GAD65 and IA2 autoantibodies were assessed pre-transplant and post-transplant (monthly) until graft failure, and categorized as persistently negative, persistently positive, or seroconverters. Graft survival was analyzed using U-Mann-Whitney test, and Quade’s nonparametric ANCOVA adjusted for confounders. Kaplan-Meier and Log-Rank tests were employed to analyze attainment of insulin independence. P value <0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Results

ITx recipients with persistent autoantibody negativity (n = 21) showed longer graft function (98 [61 – 182] months) than those with persistent autoantibody positivity (n = 18; 38 [13 – 163] months), even after adjusting for immunosuppressive induction protocol (P = 0.027). Seroconverters (n=8) had a median graft survival time of 73 (7.7 – 167) months, which did not significantly differ from the other 2 groups. Subjects with persistently single antibody positivity to GAD65 (n = 8) had shorter graft survival compared to negative islet autoantibody (GAD65/IA2) subjects (n = 21; P = 0.016). Time of graft survival did not differ in subjects with single antibody positivity to IA2. The proportion of insulin independence attainment was similar irrespective of autoantibody status.

Conclusion

The persistence of islet autoantibodies, as markers of islet autoimmunity, may represent an underappreciated contributing factor to the failure of transplanted β cells. Whether induction with T-cell depletion may lead to improved graft survival, independent of islet autoantibody status, could not be evaluated in our cohort. Larger prospective studies are needed to further address the role of islet autoantibody status on islet graft survival.
Label-free electrochemical immunosensor as a reliable point-of-care device for the detection of Interleukin-6 in serum samples from patients with psoriasis
Authors: Cancelliere Rocco , Cosio Terenzio , Campione Elena , Corvino Martina , D’Amico Maria Pia , Micheli Laura , Signori Emanuela , Contini Giorgio
Published: November 2023

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays a crucial role in autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. This study aims to develop a low-cost, simple-to-manufacture, and user-friendly label-free electrochemical point-of-care device for the rapid detection of IL-6 in patients with psoriasis. Precisely, a sandwich-based format immunosensor was developed using two primary antibodies (mAb-IL6 clone-5 and clone-7) and screen-printed electrodes modified with an inexpensive recycling electrochemical enhancing material, called biochar. mAb-IL6 clone-5 was used as a covalently immobilized capture bioreceptor on modified electrodes, and mAb-IL6 clone-7 was used to recognize the immunocomplex (Anti-IL6 clone-5 and IL-6) and form the sandwich. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to conduct electrochemical characterization of the layer-by-layer assembly of the immunosensor, while square wave voltammetry (SWV) was used to perform the sensing. The developed immunosensor demonstrated robust analytical performance in buffer solution, with a wide linear range (LR) by varying from 2 to 250 pg/mL, a good limit of detection (LOD) of 0.78 pg/mL and reproducibility (RSD<7%). In addition, a spectrophotometric ELISA kit was employed to validate the results obtained with the label-free device by analyzing twenty-five serum samples from control and patients affected by psoriasis. A strong correlation in terms of pg/mL concentration of IL-6 was found comparing the two methods, with the advantage for our label-free biosensor of an ease use and a quicker detection time. Based on IL-6 levels, the proposed immunosensor is a dependable, non-invasive screening device capable of predicting disease onset, progression, and treatment efficacy.
A preliminary evaluation of targeted nanopore sequencing technology for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens
Authors: Sun Xiaoke , Song Jingchao , Leng Xia , Li Fuli , Wang Haojie , He Jiaqian , Zhai Wenhua , Wang Zhenjing , Wu Qingqing , Li Zheng , Ruan Xianglin
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of targeted nanopore sequencing technology for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tb.) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) specimens.

Methods

A prospective study was used to select 58 patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis(PTB) at Henan Chest Hospital from January to October 2022 for bronchoscopy, and BALF specimens were subjected to acid-fast bacilli(AFB) smear, Mycobacterium tuberculosis MGIT960 liquid culture, Gene Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert MTB/RIF) and targeted nanopore sequencing (TNS) for the detection of M.tb., comparing the differences in the positive rates of the four methods for the detection of patients with different classifications.

Results

Among 58 patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis, there were 48 patients with a final diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. Using the clinical composite diagnosis as the reference gold standard, the sensitivity of AFB smear were 27.1% (95% CI: 15.3-41.8); for M.tb culture were 39.6% (95% CI: 25.8-54.7); for Xpert MTB/RIF were 56.2% (95% CI: 41.2-70.5); for TNS were 89.6% (95% CI: 77.3-96.5). Using BALF specimens Xpert MTB/RIF and/or M.tb. culture as the reference standard, TNS showed 100% (30/30) sensitivity. The sensitivity of NGS for pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosis was significantly higher than Xpert MTB/RIF, M.tb. culture, and AFB smear. Besides, P values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Conclusion

Using a clinical composite reference standard as a reference gold standard, TNS has the highest sensitivity and consistency with clinical diagnosis, and can rapidly and efficiently detect PTB in BALF specimens, which can aid to improve the early diagnosis of suspected tuberculosis patients.
Differential response of three large mammal species to human recreation in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA
Authors: Uetrecht Madison R. , Bermudez April , Novoa Daniel , Reithel Jennifer , Rodriguez Vaneza , Smith Rosemary , Sprott Shannon , Tingley Morgan W. , Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: November 2023

Outdoor recreation benefits local economies, environmental education, and public health and wellbeing, but it can also adversely affect local ecosystems. Human presence in natural areas alters feeding and reproductive behaviors, physiology, and population structure in many wildlife species, often resulting in cascading effects through entire ecological communities. As outdoor recreation gains popularity, existing trails are becoming overcrowded and new trails are being built to accommodate increasing use. Many recreation impact studies have investigated effects of the presence or absence of humans while few have investigated recreation effects on wildlife using a gradient of disturbance intensity. We used camera traps to quantify trail use by humans and mid- to large-sized mammals in an area of intense outdoor recreation–the Upper East River Valley, Colorado, USA. We selected five trails with different types and intensities of human use and deployed six cameras on each trail for five weeks during a COVID-enhanced 2020 summer tourism season. We used occupancy models to estimate detectability and habitat use of the three most common mammal species in the study area and determined which human activities affect the habitat use patterns of each species. Human activities affected each species differently. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) tended to use areas with more vehicles, more predators, and greater distances from the trailhead, and they were more likely to be detected where there were more bikers. Coyotes (Canis latrans) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) were most likely to use areas where their prey species occurred, and foxes were more likely to be detected where the vegetation was shorter. Humans and their recreational activities differentially influence different species. More generally, these results reinforce that it is unlikely that a single management policy is suitable for all species and management should thus be tailored for each target species.
Extracranial carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque and APOE polymorphisms: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Culleton Sinéad , Niu Mary , Alexander Matthew , McNally J. Scott , Yuan Chun , Parker Dennis , Baradaran Hediyeh
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Carotid atherosclerotic plaque is an important independent risk factor for stroke. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) influences cholesterol levels and certain isoforms are associated with increased carotid atherosclerosis, though the exact association between APOE and carotid plaque is uncertain. The study aimed to evaluate the association between APOE and carotid plaque.

Methods

A systematic review was performed to retrieve all studies which examined the association between carotid plaque and APOE. This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Independent readers extracted the relevant data from each study including the type of imaging assessment, plaque definition, frequency of APOE E4 carrier status and type of genotyping. Meta-analyses with an assessment of study heterogeneity and publication bias were performed. Results were presented in a forest plot and summarized using a random-effects model.

Results

After screening 838 studies, 17 studies were included for systematic review. A meta-analysis of 5 published studies showed a significant association between ε4 homozygosity and carotid plaque [odds ratio (OR), 1.53; 95% CI, 1.16, 2.02; p = .003]. Additionally, there was a significant association between patients possessing at least one ε4 allele, heterozygotes or homozygotes, and carotid plaque (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.03, 1.52; p = .03). Lastly, there was no association between ε4 heterozygosity and carotid plaque (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.93, 1.26; p = .30).

Conclusion

APOE ε4 allele is significantly associated with extracranial carotid atherosclerotic plaque, especially for homozygous individuals.
Needs of multimorbid heart failure patients and their carers: a qualitative interview study and the creation of personas as a basis for a blended collaborative care intervention
Authors: Engelmann Petra , Eilerskov Natasja , Thilsing Trine , Bernardini Francesco , Rasmussen Sanne , Löwe Bernd , Herrmann-Lingen Christoph , Gostoli Sara , Andréasson Frida , Rafanelli Chiara , Pedersen Susanne S. , Jaarsma Tiny , Kohlmann Sebastian
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Involving patients and carers in the development of blended collaborative care (BCC) interventions for multimorbid heart failure (HF) patients is recommended but rarely practised, and research on the patient perspective is scarce. The aim of this study is to investigate patients’ and carers' care-related needs and preferences to better customize a novel international BCC intervention.

Methods

A qualitative study design using framework analysis was employed. The study was performed in accordance with the EQUATOR standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR). Patients aged at least 65 years with HF and at least two other physical diseases as well as their carers completed semistructured interviews in Germany, Italy, and Denmark. Based on these interviews, personas (prototype profiles of patients and carers) were created.

Results

Data from interviews with 25 patients and 17 carers were analysed. Initially, seven country-specific personas were identified, which were iteratively narrowed down to a final set of 3 personas: (a) the one who needs and wants support, (b) the one who has accepted their situation with HF and reaches out when necessary, and (c) the one who feels neglected by the health care system. Carers identifying with the last persona showed high levels of psychological stress and a high need for support.

Discussion

This is the first international qualitative study on patients' and carers' needs regarding a BCC intervention using the creation of personas. Across three European countries, data from interviews were used to develop three contrasting personas. Instead of providing “one size fits all” interventions, the results indicate that BCC interventions should offer different approaches based on the needs of individual patients and carers. The personas will serve as a basis for the development of a novel BCC intervention as part of the EU project ESCAPE (Evaluation of a patient-centred biopSychosocial blended collaborative CAre Pathway for the treatment of multimorbid Elderly patients).
The use of the individual development plan at minority serving institutions
Authors: Chang Chi-Ning , Justus-Smith Cammie , Malagon-Palacios Laura J. , Hui John
Published: November 2023

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a common mentoring tool in higher education. Students and postdoctoral researchers can use an IDP to facilitate conversations with their mentors and create action plans to support future goals. The entire process helps mentees achieve both short- and long-term objectives. Little is known about how historically underrepresented minority groups are supported during this process. This study investigated IDP implementation at 504 minority serving institutions (MSIs) that primarily serve African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and Native-American populations. Using content analysis, we systematically reviewed the publicly available IDP tools and policies at each MSI. Although several crucial mentoring components and implementation strategies were identified, there was a noticeable absence of emphasis on multicultural mentoring guidance and psychosocial support throughout the process. Our findings offer decision-makers and faculty mentors insights into supporting minority trainees and lay the foundation for future research in the field of IDPs.
Incorporating evolution into neuroscience teaching
Authors: Striedter Georg F.
Published: November 2023

Neuroscience courses can be enriched by including an evolutionary perspective. To that end, this essay identifies several concepts critical to understanding nervous system evolution and offers numerous examples that can be used to illustrate those concepts. One critical concept is that the distribution of features among today’s species can be used to reconstruct a feature’s evolutionary history, which then makes it possible to distinguish cases of homology from convergent evolution. Another key insight is that evolution did not simply add new features to old nervous systems, leaving the old features unchanged. Instead, both new and old features have changed, and they generally did so along divergent trajectories in different lineages, not in a linear sequence. Some changes in nervous system organization can be linked to selective pressures (i.e, adaptation), especially if they occurred convergently in different lineages. However, nervous system evolution has also been subject to various constraints, which is why many neural features are, in a sense, suboptimal. An overarching theme is that evolution has brought forth tremendous diversity across all levels of the nervous system and at all levels of organization, from molecules to neural circuits and behavior. This diversity provides excellent research opportunities, but it can also complicate the extrapolation of research findings across species.
Footprint of pancreas infiltrating and circulating immune cells throughout type 1 diabetes development
Authors: Bruggeman Ylke , Martens Pieter-Jan , Sassi Gabriele , Viaene Marijke , Wasserfall Clive H. , Mathieu Chantal , Gysemans Conny
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is defined by immune cell infiltration of the pancreas, in particular the islets of Langerhans, referred to as insulitis, which is especially prominent during the early disease stages in association with decreased beta cell mass. An in-depth understanding of the dynamics and phenotype of the immune cells infiltrating the pancreas and the accompanying changes in their profiles in peripheral blood during T1D development is critical to generate novel preventive and therapeutic approaches, as well as to find biomarkers for the disease process.

Methods

Using multi-parameter flow cytometry, we explored the dynamic changes of immune cells infiltrating the pancreas and the pancreatic draining lymph nodes (PLN), compared to those in peripheral blood in female and male non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice during T1D progression.

Results

The early stages of T1D development were characterized by an influx of innate dendritic cells and neutrophils in the pancreas. While dendritic cells seemed to move in and out (to the PLN), neutrophils accumulated during the pre-symptomatic phase and reached a maximum at 8 weeks of age, after which their numbers declined. During disease progression, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells appeared to continuously migrate from the PLN to the pancreas, which coincided with an increase in beta cell autoimmunity and insulitis severity, and a decline in insulin content. At 12 weeks of age, CD4+ and especially CD8+ T cells in the pancreas showed a dramatic shift from naïve to effector memory phenotype, in contrast to the PLN, where most of these cells remained naïve. A large proportion of pancreas infiltrating CD4+ T cells were naïve, indicating that antigenic stimulation was not necessary to traffic and invade the pancreas. Interestingly, a pre-effector-like T cell dominated the peripheral blood. These cells were intermediates between naïve and effector memory cells as identified by single cell RNA sequencing and might be a potential novel therapeutic target.

Conclusion

These time- and tissue-dependent changes in the dynamics and functional states of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are essential steps in our understanding of the disease process in NOD mice and need to be considered for the interpretation and design of disease-modifying therapies.
Expression of acetylated histones H3 and H4 and histone deacetylase enzymes HDAC1, HDAC2 and HDAC6 in simple mammary carcinomas of female dogs
Authors: Senhorello Igor Luiz Salardani , Matiz Oscar Rodrigo Sierra , Canavari Isabela Cristina , Hernandez Giovanny Vargas , Anai Letícia Abrahão , Navarrete Ampuero Roberto Andrés , Pazzini Josiane Moraes , Prado Cibele Maria , Meirelles Flavio Vieira , Vasconcelos Rosemeri de Oliveira , Tinucci-Costa e Mirela
Published: November 2023

Histone deacetylation is an important mechanism involved in human breast cancer tumorigenesis and recent veterinary oncology studies also demonstrate a similar relationship in some canine neoplasms. The use of HDAC inhibitors in vitro and in vivo has demonstrated antitumor action on several strains of human and animal cancers. The present study aims to correlate the expression of H3K9Ac, H4K12Ac, HDAC1, HDAC2 and HDAC6 in simple mammary carcinomas in dogs with clinicopathological parameters and overall survival time. To this end, 61 samples of simple breast carcinomas were analyzed by the immunohistochemistry technique with subsequent validation of the antibodies by the Western Blot technique. The expressions obtained via a semi-quantitative way were categorized by assigning scores and classified into high or low expressions according to the given score, except for HDAC6, when the marking percentage was considered and subdivided into high and low expressions using the median value. For statistical analysis, the chi-square test or Fisher exact test were used as univariate analysis and correspondence analysis as a multivariate test, in addition to the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. In the studied samples, the highest frequencies were determined for the high expression proteins H4K12Ac (88.5%), HDAC2 (65.6%) and HDAC6 (56.7%) and the low expression proteins H3K9Ac (73.8%) and HDAC1 (54.1%). An association between the low expression of HDAC1 and the presence of lymph node metastasis (p = 0.035) was indicated by univariate analysis while the high expression of HDAC1 was associated with favorable prognostic factors, such as the absence of lymph node metastasis and low mitotic index by multivariate analysis. Also, by multivariate analysis, the low expression of HDAC6 was correlated with the low expression of Ki67, smaller tumors, and better prognosis factors as well. Protein expression was not correlated with patients’ overall survival time (p > 0.05). The high expressions of HDAC2 and HDAC6 in mammary carcinomas in female dogs may be useful information for research involving therapeutic targets with iHDACs since their inhibition favors hyperacetylation and transcription of tumor suppressor genes.
The effectiveness of CBT-based daily supportive text messages in improving female mental health during COVID-19 pandemic: results from the Text4Hope program
Authors: Dias Raquel da Luz , Shalaby Reham , Agyapong Belinda , Vuong Wesley , Gusnowski April , Surood Shireen , Greenshaw Andrew James , Agyapong Vincent I. O.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated gender disparities in mental health, particularly impacting women. To address this, Alberta, Canada, launched Text4Hope, a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy-based text messaging intervention, to provide support and resources for psychological challenges during the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Text4Hope in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, sleeping disturbances, and suicidal ideation among female subscribers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The study employed both an uncontrolled longitudinal design and a controlled cohort design. The uncontrolled longitudinal study analyzed a one-year dataset (n = 9,545) of clinical outcomes, comparing mean differences in mental health symptoms from baseline to 6 weeks after subscription. The controlled cohort design compared two groups, with (n = 1,763) and without (n = 567) intervention exposure during the same period. Data were collected through self-administered online surveys completed at baseline and six weeks after subscription. Sociodemographic information and validated scales (e.g., 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)) were used to assess mental health outcomes.

Results

The results from the longitudinal study indicated a significant reduction in anxiety prevalence and anxiety symptoms, with a 19.63% decrease in GAD-7 mean score and a 32.02% decrease in likely anxiety from baseline to six weeks. Depressive symptoms and perceived stress also showed a significant reduction (p < 0.001), albeit to a lesser extent. In the controlled cohort study, the intervention group had significantly (p < 0.001) lower PHQ-9 [19.5 (SD 7.05)], GAD-7 [7.5 (SD 5.27)], and CMH [35.53 (SD 18.45)] scores. Additionally, the study found substantial differences (p < 0.001) in suicidal ideation (26.1 vs. 15.7) between groups but no significant differences in sleep disruption.

Discussion

These findings suggest that Text4Hope could be an effective intervention for reducing stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and particularly anxiety symptoms among women during public emergencies. The study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of text messaging interventions in supporting mental health during crisis situations.