bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formação continuada em educação a distância: ação e reflexão sobre as competências do professor tutor
Authors: Saggiomo Leandro da Silva , Duarte Luciana Martinez , Pereira Elaine Corrêa , Machado Celiane Costa
Published: March 2024

A Educação a Distância é uma modalidade que vem se constituindo como uma nova possibilidade de alcance ao conhecimento, trazendo diversas alternativas na formação acadêmica e profissional dos sujeitos. A fim de qualificar o corpo docente que atua nos cursos oferecidos pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, a Secretaria de Educação a Distância desenvolve ações pedagógicas e administrativas a fim de organizar os cursos desta modalidade além de promover diversas ações para promover a formação continuada em EaD. Inseridos neste contexto encontramos os Professores Tutores, responsáveis pelo desenvolvimento, acompanhamento e avaliação dos estudantes. Assim a presente pesquisa de cunho qualitativo tem como objetivo identificar as percepções dos Professores Tutores sobre as competências necessárias para o desenvolvimento da atividade da Tutoria. A mesma foi realizada com oito Professores Tutores, que atuaram em duas edições do curso de Administração modalidade EaD participando dos processos formativos por um perí­odo mí­nimo de cinco anos. Os dados foram produzidos através de entrevista semiestruturada e analisados pelo método denominado Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo proposto por LEFREVE e LEFREVE (2012). A partir das análises foi gerado o Discurso Coletivizado "Ser Tutor", o qual embasou algumas reflexões, demonstrando a apropriação dos sujeitos quanto a atuação na EaD.
Procedimentos manifestos por alunos do Ensino Fundamental em uma atividade de modelagem matemática
Authors: Castro Élida Velozo , Veronez Michele
Published: March 2024

Nosso objetivo nesse trabalho é discutir sobre os procedimentos manifestos pelos alunos de um 8o ano do Ensino Fundamental ao desenvolverem a atividade de modelagem matemática intitulada Erva-Mate. Para tanto, apresentamos tais procedimentos em associação com suas ações cognitivas, conforme denotadas por Almeida e Silva (2012). Para o desenvolvimento desse trabalho assumimos a Modelagem Matemática como uma alternativa pedagógica na qual se aborda situações do interesse do aluno e é possibilitado, na busca por uma solução para um problema identificado no contexto em foco, vários aprendizados, sobretudo de Matemática. A metodologia que sustenta esse estudo é de natureza qualitativa. Como resultado inferimos que os procedimentos manifestos pelos alunos retratam mobilização de seus conhecimentos, uma vez que estão relacionados ao seu modo de pensar, entender e administrar as informações sobre o tema em estudo que originou tal atividade de modelagem matemática, e sinaliza que não há linearidade nas ações cognitivas dos alunos. Ainda, que tal mobilização provoca um processo de idas e vindas em relação aos aspectos da situação ou problema em estudo, aos objetos matemáticos e às respostas reconhecidas como solução, para além de revelar que os procedimentos manifestos pelos alunos se complementam ao longo da atividade de modelagem matemática.
Ensino de Biologia com situação problema sobre os biomas de mata atlântica e caatinga
Authors: Fernandes de Araújo Bernadete , Sovierzoski Hilda Helena , Dorigo Correia Mônica
Published: March 2024

O Ensino de Biologia pode se configurar no envolvimento do contexto através de situações problema, possibilitando a interação entre os pares na construção de sentidos e significados. Partindo dessa assertiva foi que esse estudo objetivou avaliar as situações problema, aplicadas em uma sequência didática, no Ensino de Biologia, para ampliar a percepção dos estudantes do 3ª série do ensino médio de uma escola pública de Palmeira dos Índios, Alagoas, sobre a importância das plantas tí­picas dos biomas de Mata Atlântica e Caatinga. Esta pesquisa se caracterizou de natureza qualitativa, com abordagem explicativa, baseada na pesquisa-ação, apresentou como instrumento de coleta à observação dos participantes nas aulas, registro das respostas as situações problema e a gravação em ví­deo das argumentações entre a professora e os alunos. Para a análise das respostas foi utilizada a análise de conteúdo. Os resultados demonstraram que as situações problema contribuí­ram para a ampliação das percepções dos estudantes sobre a importância das plantas tí­picas desses biomas, assim como se identificou as limitações conceituais dos estudantes, que se constituiu em variáveis consideradas no ensino de Biologia com esses biomas. Ademais, essa estratégia didática propiciou a inserção das concepções tí­picas do fazer Ciências.
Ensino da lí­ngua portuguesa sob uma perspectiva textual
Authors: Smiderle Josiane Jabovski , Zavodini-Carlotto Sonia Cristina , Sella Aparecida Feola
Published: March 2024

Este artigo apresenta breve revisão bibliográfica sobre aspectos de duas abordagens de ensino da lí­ngua portuguesa nas escolas públicas. Na primeira parte, discutem-se caracterí­sticas e algumas crí­ticas que recaem sobre esse tipo de ensino, cuja base é a gramática tradicional, exemplificando com algumas partes de um livro didático de lí­ngua portuguesa, utilizado em escolas públicas do estado do Paraná. Neste trabalho, procura-se explicar o que é o termo gramática, bem como compreender a abordagem de elementos linguí­sticos e a concepção de linguagem que perpassa a gramática tradicional. Na sequência, trata-se do ensino da lí­ngua portuguesa sob uma perspectiva textual, que propõe análise linguí­stica a partir de textos reais, ultrapassando as definições cristalizadas da tradição gramatical. Elencam-se teorias sobre como deve ser o ensino de lí­ngua para que se favoreça a reflexão dos alunos sobre as ocorrências gramaticais nos textos.
A utilização de charges como estratégias didáticas para o ensino de ciências
Authors: Duarte Iolanda Estevão , Saraiva Rachel Carolina da Silva , Barros Marcelo Diniz Monteiro de
Published: March 2024

A fim de investigar a viabilidade da proposta douso da charge comoestratégia didática e, baseando-se nos eixos temáticos e temas transversais propostos pelos PCNs, realizou-se a pesquisa com o objetivo de demonstrar as possí­veis contribuições dessa ferramenta para o Ensino de Ciências. Foram analisadascharges publicadasnosjornais Estado de Minas e Folha de São Paulo, em um perí­odo de seis meses, entre Abril e Setembro de 2013, totalizando 366 charges, dentre as quais foram selecionadas 41 do jornal Estado de Minas e 33 do jornal Folha de São Paulo, perfazendo um total de 74 charges adequadas ao propósito da pesquisa. Observou-se que o jornal Estado de Minas apresentou charges que, em geral, abordam temas relacionados à saúde, enquanto o jornal Folha de São Paulo traz charges com assuntos relacionados à polí­tica e economia. Em uma visão geral, percebeu-se maior frequência do eixo temático "Ser Humano e Saúde" , enquanto "Terra e Universo" foi o menos encontrado. Em relação aos temas transversais, "Saúde" e "Ética" tiveram grande destaque, enquanto "Orientação Sexual" e "Pluralidade Cultural" não tiveram muita visibilidade nas charges analisadas. O universo das charges se mostrou muito fértil para o âmbito educacional, há um imenso acervo disponí­vel nos meios de comunicação e que pode ser facilmente acessado, o que propicia uma gama de possibilidades para a realização de novos trabalhos de investigação nessa área.
Population-enriched innate immune variants may identify candidate gene targets at the intersection of cancer and cardio-metabolic disease
Authors: Yeyeodu Susan , Hanafi Donia , Webb Kenisha , Laurie Nikia A. , Kimbro K. Sean
Published: March 2024

Both cancer and cardio-metabolic disease disparities exist among specific populations in the US. For example, African Americans experience the highest rates of breast and prostate cancer mortality and the highest incidence of obesity. Native and Hispanic Americans experience the highest rates of liver cancer mortality. At the same time, Pacific Islanders have the highest death rate attributed to type 2 diabetes (T2D), and Asian Americans experience the highest incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cancers induced by infectious agents. Notably, the pathologic progression of both cancer and cardio-metabolic diseases involves innate immunity and mechanisms of inflammation. Innate immunity in individuals is established through genetic inheritance and external stimuli to respond to environmental threats and stresses such as pathogen exposure. Further, individual genomes contain characteristic genetic markers associated with one or more geographic ancestries (ethnic groups), including protective innate immune genetic programming optimized for survival in their corresponding ancestral environment(s). This perspective explores evidence related to our working hypothesis that genetic variations in innate immune genes, particularly those that are commonly found but unevenly distributed between populations, are associated with disparities between populations in both cancer and cardio-metabolic diseases. Identifying conventional and unconventional innate immune genes that fit this profile may provide critical insights into the underlying mechanisms that connect these two families of complex diseases and offer novel targets for precision-based treatment of cancer and/or cardio-metabolic disease.
Predictive factors and the management of hyperglycemia in patients with acromegaly and Cushing’s disease receiving pasireotide treatment: post hoc analyses from the SOM230B2219 study
Authors: Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Bolanowski Marek , Zhang Shao-Ling , Yu Yerong , Witek Przemysław , Kalra Pramila , Kietsiriroje Noppadol , Piacentini Andrea , Pedroncelli Alberto M. , Samson Susan L.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Pasireotide, a somatostatin receptor ligand, is approved for treating acromegaly and Cushing’s disease (CD). Hyperglycemia during treatment can occur because of the drug’s mechanism of action, although treatment discontinuation is rarely required. The prospective, randomized, Phase IV SOM230B2219 (NCT02060383) trial was designed to assess optimal management of pasireotide-associated hyperglycemia. Here, we investigated predictive factors for requiring antihyperglycemic medication during pasireotide treatment.

Methods

Participants with acromegaly or CD initiated long-acting pasireotide 40 mg/28 days intramuscularly (acromegaly) or pasireotide 600 μg subcutaneously twice daily during pre-randomization (≤16 weeks). Those who did not need antihyperglycemic medication, were managed with metformin, or received insulin from baseline entered an observational arm ending at 16 weeks. Those who required additional/alternative antihyperglycemic medication to metformin were randomized to incretin-based therapy or insulin for an additional 16 weeks. Logistic-regression analyses evaluated quantitative and qualitative factors for requiring antihyperglycemic medication during pre-randomization.

Results

Of 190 participants with acromegaly and 59 with CD, 88 and 15, respectively, did not need antihyperglycemic medication; most were aged <40 years (acromegaly 62.5%, CD 86.7%), with baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <6.5% (<48 mmol/mol; acromegaly 98.9%, CD 100%) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) <100 mg/dL (<5.6 mmol/L; acromegaly 76.1%, CD 100%). By logistic regression, increasing baseline HbA1c (odds ratio [OR] 3.6; P=0.0162) and FPG (OR 1.0; P=0.0472) and history of diabetes/pre-diabetes (OR 3.0; P=0.0221) predicted receipt of antihyperglycemic medication in acromegaly participants; increasing baseline HbA1c (OR 12.6; P=0.0276) was also predictive in CD participants. Investigator-reported hyperglycemia-related adverse events were recorded in 47.9% and 54.2% of acromegaly and CD participants, respectively, mainly those with diabetes/pre-diabetes.

Conclusion

Increasing age, HbA1c, and FPG and pre-diabetes/diabetes were associated with increased likelihood of requiring antihyperglycemic medication during pasireotide treatment. These risk factors may be used to identify those who need more vigilant monitoring to optimize outcomes during pasireotide treatment.
Relationship between blood cadmium levels and bone mineral density in adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lei Yi , Guo Meiqian , Xie Juan , Liu Xueqing , Li Xiang , Wang Hongwu , Xu Yong , Zheng Donghui
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Osteoporosis, a disease of reduced bone mass and microstructural deterioration leading to fragility fractures, is becoming more prevalent as aging progresses, significantly increasing the socioeconomic burden. In past studies, there has been a growing awareness of the harmful effects of heavy metals on bone, with cadmium being a significant exposure factor. The purpose of this study was to look into the association between adult bone mineral density(BMD) and blood cadmium levels.

Methods

Based on information from the 2013–2014, 2017–2018 NHANES, weighted multiple regression, generalized weighted modeling, and smoothed curve fitting were utilized to investigate the association between blood cadmium and femur BMD. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate any differences in the associations between age, sex, race, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes.

Results

In 2,146 participants, blood cadmium levels and total femur [-0.02 (-0.03, -0.01), 0.0027], femoral neck [-0.01 (-0.02, -0.00), 0.0240], femoral trochanter [-0.01 (-0.02, -0.00), 0.0042], and intertrochanteric femoral trochanter [-0.02 (-0.03, -0.00), 0.0101] BMD were negatively correlated. Subgroup analyses showed that this association was more pronounced in women, non-Hispanic white people and other Hispanics, and those with chronic kidney disease and diabetes. Our results pointed to a negative relationship between femoral BMD and blood cadmium. This negative association varied by age, sex, race, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. In particular, bone mineral density was more significantly negatively affected by blood cadmium levels in groups with diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated a significant negative association between blood cadmium levels and bone mineral density in a population of U.S. adults.
Differentiated pattern of complement system activation between MOG-IgG-associated disease and AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Cho Eun Bin , Min Ju-Hong , Waters Patrick , Jeon Miyoung , Ju Eun-Seon , Kim Ho Jin , Kim Su-Hyun , Shin Ha Young , Kang Sa-Yoon , Lim Young-Min , Oh Sun-Young , Lee Hye Lim , Sohn Eunhee , Lee Sang-Soo , Oh Jeeyoung , Kim Sunyoung , Huh So-Young , Cho Joong-Yang , Seok Jin Myoung , Kim Byung-Jo , Kim Byoung Joon
Published: March 2024

Background

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG) immunoglobulin G (IgG)-associated disease (MOGAD) has clinical and pathophysiological features that are similar to but distinct from those of aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-IgG)-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (AQP4-NMOSD). MOG-IgG and AQP4-IgG, mostly of the IgG1 subtype, can both activate the complement system. Therefore, we investigated whether the levels of serum complement components, regulators, and activation products differ between MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD, and if complement analytes can be utilized to differentiate between these diseases.

Methods

The sera of patients with MOGAD (from during an attack and remission; N=19 and N=9, respectively) and AQP4-NMOSD (N=35 and N=17), and healthy controls (N=38) were analyzed for C1q-binding circulating immune complex (CIC-C1q), C1 inhibitor (C1-INH), factor H (FH), C3, iC3b, and soluble terminal complement complex (sC5b-9).

Results

In attack samples, the levels of C1-INH, FH, and iC3b were higher in the MOGAD group than in the NMOSD group (all, p<0.001), while the level of sC5b-9 was increased only in the NMOSD group. In MOGAD, there were no differences in the concentrations of complement analytes based on disease status. However, within AQP4-NMOSD, remission samples indicated a higher C1-INH level than attack samples (p=0.003). Notably, AQP4-NMOSD patients on medications during attack showed lower levels of iC3b (p<0.001) and higher levels of C3 (p=0.008), C1-INH (p=0.004), and sC5b-9 (p<0.001) compared to those not on medication. Among patients not on medication at the time of attack sampling, serum MOG-IgG cell-based assay (CBA) score had a positive correlation with iC3b and C1-INH levels (rho=0.764 and p=0.010, and rho=0.629 and p=0.049, respectively), and AQP4-IgG CBA score had a positive correlation with C1-INH level (rho=0.836, p=0.003).

Conclusions

This study indicates a higher prominence of complement pathway activation and subsequent C3 degradation in MOGAD compared to AQP4-NMOSD. On the other hand, the production of terminal complement complexes (TCC) was found to be more substantial in AQP4-NMOSD than in MOGAD. These findings suggest a strong regulation of the complement system, implying its potential involvement in the pathogenesis of MOGAD through mechanisms that extend beyond TCC formation.
Predictive factors of psychiatric syndrome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Geng Wenqi , Zhang Shangzhu , Cao Jinya , Hong Xia , Duan Yanping , Jiang Yinan , Wei Jing
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Early detection of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) remains a challenge in clinical settings. Previous studies have found different autoantibodies as markers for NPSLE. This study aimed to describe the distribution of psychiatric syndromes in a group of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to investigate the association between psychiatric syndromes and specific autoantibodies.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at a single medical center in China. We reviewed medical records of hospitalized patients with SLE who were consulted by psychiatrists due to potential mental disorders. Results of serum autoantibodies and general laboratory tests were collected. The correlation between clinical variables was examined. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors related to NPSLE and different psychiatric diagnoses.

Results

Among the 171 psychiatric manifestations in 160 patients, 141 (82.4%) were attributed to SLE. Acute confusional state (ACS) had the highest prevalence (57.4%). Anti-cardiolipin (ACL) antibody (X2 = 142.261, p < 0.001) and anti-β2 glycoprotein I (-β2GP1) antibody (X2 = 139.818, p < 0.001) varied significantly between groups, with the highest positive rate found in patients with mood disorders (27.3% and 18.2%). SLE disease activity index – 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score excluding item ACS and item psychosis was a predictor of NPSLE (OR 1.172 [95% CI 1.105 - 1.243]).

Conclusions

Disease activity reflected by SLEDAI-2K score is a predictor for NPSLE. Antiphospholipid antibodies are associated with mood disorders in SLE. Further separate investigation of neuropsychiatric disorders is needed in order to better comprehend NPSLE’s pathological mechanism.
The role of TIM-3 in sepsis: a promising target for immunotherapy?
Authors: Wang Changli , Liu Jinhai , Wu Qi , Wang Zhi , Hu Baoji , Bo Lulong
Published: March 2024

Sepsis remains a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with limited effective treatment options. The T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing molecule 3 (TIM-3) has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in various immune-related disorders. This narrative review aims to explore the role of TIM-3 in sepsis and evaluate its potential as a promising target for immunotherapy. We discuss the dynamic expression patterns of TIM-3 during sepsis and its involvement in regulating immune responses. Furthermore, we examine the preclinical studies investigating the regulation of TIM-3 signaling pathways in septic models, highlighting the potential therapeutic benefits and challenges associated with targeting TIM-3. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of TIM-3 in sepsis pathogenesis and underscores the promising prospects of TIM-3-based immunotherapy as a potential strategy to combat this life-threatening condition.
Circulating T cells: a promising biomarker of anti-PD-(L)1 therapy
Authors: Hou Junlei , Yang Xuezhi , Xie Shuanglong , Zhu Bo , Zha Haoran
Published: March 2024

Anti-PD-(L)1 therapy has shown great efficacy in some patients with cancer. However, a significant proportion of patients with cancer do not respond to it. Another unmet clinical need for anti-PD-(L)1 therapy is the dynamic monitoring of treatment effects. Therefore, identifying biomarkers that can stratify potential responders before PD-(L)1 treatment and timely monitoring of the efficacy of PD-(L)1 treatment are crucial in the clinical setting. The identification of biomarkers by liquid biopsy has attracted considerable attention. Among the identified biomarkers, circulating T cells are one of the most promising because of their indispensable contribution to anti-PD-(L)1 therapy. The present review aimed to thoroughly explore the potential of circulating T cells as biomarkers of anti-PD-(L)1 therapy and its advantages and limitations.
New hopes for the breast cancer treatment: perspectives on the oncolytic virus therapy
Authors: Chowaniec Hanna , Ślubowska Antonina , Mroczek Magdalena , Borowczyk Martyna , Braszka Małgorzata , Dworacki Grzegorz , Dobosz Paula , Wichtowski Mateusz
Published: March 2024

Oncolytic virus (OV) therapy has emerged as a promising frontier in cancer treatment, especially for solid tumours. While immunotherapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cells have demonstrated impressive results, their limitations in inducing complete tumour regression have spurred researchers to explore new approaches targeting tumours resistant to current immunotherapies. OVs, both natural and genetically engineered, selectively replicate within cancer cells, inducing their lysis while sparing normal tissues. Recent advancements in clinical research and genetic engineering have enabled the development of targeted viruses that modify the tumour microenvironment, triggering anti-tumour immune responses and exhibiting synergistic effects with other cancer therapies. Several OVs have been studied for breast cancer treatment, including adenovirus, protoparvovirus, vaccinia virus, reovirus, and herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1). These viruses have been modified or engineered to enhance their tumour-selective replication, reduce toxicity, and improve oncolytic properties.Newer generations of OVs, such as Oncoviron and Delta-24-RGD adenovirus, exhibit heightened replication selectivity and enhanced anticancer effects, particularly in breast cancer models. Clinical trials have explored the efficacy and safety of various OVs in treating different cancers, including melanoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, head and neck cancer, and gynecologic malignancies. Notably, Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) and Oncorine have. been approved for advanced melanoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, respectively. However, adverse effects have been reported in some cases, including flu-like symptoms and rare instances of severe complications such as fistula formation. Although no OV has been approved specifically for breast cancer treatment, ongoing preclinical clinical trials focus on four groups of viruses. While mild adverse effects like low-grade fever and nausea have been observed, the effectiveness of OV monotherapy in breast cancer remains insufficient. Combination strategies integrating OVs with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy, show promise in improving therapeutic outcomes. Oncolytic virus therapy holds substantial potential in breast cancer treatment, demonstrating safety in trials. Multi-approach strategies combining OVs with conventional therapies exhibit more promising therapeutic effects than monotherapy, signalling a hopeful future for OV-based breast cancer treatments.
From gut to brain: understanding the role of microbiota in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Wang Siyu , Zhou Shuwei , Han Zhongyu , Yu Bin , Xu Yin , Lin Yumeng , Chen Yutong , Jin Zi , Li Yalong , Cao Qinhan , Xu Yunying , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yuan-Cheng
Published: March 2024

With the proposal of the “biological-psychological-social” model, clinical decision-makers and researchers have paid more attention to the bidirectional interactive effects between psychological factors and diseases. The brain-gut-microbiota axis, as an important pathway for communication between the brain and the gut, plays an important role in the occurrence and development of inflammatory bowel disease. This article reviews the mechanism by which psychological disorders mediate inflammatory bowel disease by affecting the brain-gut-microbiota axis. Research progress on inflammatory bowel disease causing “comorbidities of mind and body” through the microbiota-gut-brain axis is also described. In addition, to meet the needs of individualized treatment, this article describes some nontraditional and easily overlooked treatment strategies that have led to new ideas for “psychosomatic treatment”.
Regulation of heme biosynthesis via the coproporphyrin dependent pathway in bacteria
Authors: Aftab Hadia , Donegan Rebecca K.
Published: March 2024

Heme biosynthesis in the Gram-positive bacteria occurs mostly via a pathway that is distinct from that of eukaryotes and Gram-negative bacteria in the three terminal heme synthesis steps. In many of these bacteria heme is a necessary cofactor that fulfills roles in respiration, gas sensing, and detoxification of reactive oxygen species. These varying roles for heme, the requirement of iron and glutamate, as glutamyl tRNA, for synthesis, and the sharing of intermediates with the synthesis of other porphyrin derivatives necessitates the need for many points of regulation in response to nutrient availability and metabolic state. In this review we examine the regulation of heme biosynthesis in these bacteria via heme, iron, and oxygen species. We also discuss our perspective on emerging roles of protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications in regulating heme biosynthesis.
The stress history of soil bacteria under organic farming enhances the growth of wheat seedlings
Authors: Ornik Muriel , Salinas Renata , Antonacci Giona , Schädler Martin , Azarbad Hamed
Published: March 2024

The effects of stress factors associated with climate change and agricultural management practices on microorganisms are often studied separately, and it remains to be determined how these factors impact the soil microbiome and, subsequently, plant growth characteristics. The aim of this study was to understand how the historical climate and agriculture to which soil microbes have been exposed can influence the growth characteristics of wheat seedlings and their associated bacterial communities. We collected soil from organic and conventional fields with different histories of climate conditions to extract microbes to inoculate wheat seeds under agar-based cultivation conditions. Within a growth period of 8 days, we monitored germination rates and time as well as seedling above-ground biomass and their associated bacterial communities. The results showed a positive interaction between conventional farming practices and an ambient climate for faster and higher germination rates. We demonstrate that soil microbial extracts from organic farming with experience of the future climate significantly enhanced above-ground biomass along with the diversity of bacterial communities associated with seedlings than other treatments. Such findings support the idea that organic agricultural practices not only mitigate the adverse effects of climate change but also promote the diversity of seedling-associated bacteria.
Clinical evidence of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lin Guangyao , Zhao Li , Lin Jingyu , Li Xuanling , Xu Lianwei
Published: March 2024

Objective

To evaluate the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen intervention on people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) based on the existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in nine databases until November 17, 2023, for RCTs assessing the effect of hyperbaric oxygen intervention for AD. The primary outcomes included Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive (ADAS-Cog), activities of daily living (ADL), and adverse events. All results were shown in forest plots, and sensitivity analysis was adopted to further verify the robustness of the pooled results.

Results

A total of 11 RCTs recruiting 847 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Based on the pooled evidence, hyperbaric oxygen could remarkably ameliorate MMSE [MD = 3.08, 95%CI (2.56, 3.61), p < 0.00001], ADAS-Cog [MD = −4.53, 95%CI (−5.05, −4.00), p < 0.00001], ADL [MD = 10.12, 95%CI (4.46, 15.79), p = 0.0005], MDA levels [SMD = −2.83, 95%CI (−5.27, −0.38), p = 0.02], SOD levels [SMD = 2.12, 95%CI (1.10, 3.15), p < 0.0001], IL-1-β levels [SMD = −1.00, 95%CI (−1.48, −0.53), p < 0.0001], and TGF-β1 levels [MD = 4.87, 95%CI (3.98, 5.76), p < 0.00001] without adverse events [OR = 1.17, 95%CI (0.68, 2.03), p = 0.58] for people with AD. The pooled results were robust after checking by sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion

These evidences suggest that hyperbaric oxygen is an effective and safe intervention for the treatment of AD. Further studies with more rigorous design will help to fully evaluate the clinical value of hyperbaric oxygen on cognition function in people with AD.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk, identifier CRD42023483726.
Association between serum creatinine and 30 days all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage: analysis of the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Zhong Yuan , Sun Hao , Jing Wenjuan , Liao Lixian , Huang Jiayi , Ma Junqiang , Chen Weiqiang
Published: March 2024

Background

Serum creatinine is a prognostic marker for various conditions, but its significance of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage is still poorly understood. This study aims to elucidate the correlation between admission serum creatinine (sCr) levels and all-cause mortality within 30 days among individuals affected by non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

Methods

This cohort study included 672 non-traumatic SAH adults. It utilized data from the MIMIC-IV database from 2008 to 2019. The patients’ first-time serum creatinine was recorded. Subsequently, an examination of the 30-day all-cause mortality was conducted. Employing a multiple logistic regression model, a nomogram was constructed, while the association between sCr and 30-day all-cause mortality was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. The calibration curve was employed to assess the model’s performance, while subgroup analysis was employed to examine the impact of additional complications and medication therapy on outcomes.

Results

A total of 672 patients diagnosed with non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage were included in the study. The mortality rate within this timeframe was found to be 24.7%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that sCr served as an independent prognostic indicator for all-cause mortality within 30 days of admission for SAH patients [OR: 2(1.18–3.41); p = 0.01]. A comprehensive model was constructed, incorporating age, sCr, white blood cell count (WBC), glucose, anion gap, and partial thromboplastin time (PTT), resulting in a prediction model with an AUC value of 0.806 (95% CI: 0.768, 0.843), while the AUC for the test set is 0.821 (95% CI: 0.777–0.865).

Conclusion

Creatinine emerges as a significant biomarker, closely associated with heightened in-hospital mortality in individuals suffering from SAH.
Development of an artificial intelligence based occupational noise induced hearing loss early warning system for mine workers
Authors: Madahana Milka C. I. , Ekoru John E. D. , Sebothoma Ben , Khoza-Shangase Katijah
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Occupational Noise Induced Hearing Loss (ONIHL) is one of the most prevalent conditions among mine workers globally. This reality is due to mine workers being exposed to noise produced by heavy machinery, rock drilling, blasting, and so on. This condition can be compounded by the fact that mine workers often work in confined workspaces for extended periods of time, where little to no attenuation of noise occurs. The objective of this research work is to present a preliminary study of the development of a hearing loss, early monitoring system for mine workers.

Methodology

The system consists of a smart watch and smart hearing muff equipped with sound sensors which collect noise intensity levels and the frequency of exposure. The collected information is transferred to a database where machine learning algorithms namely the logistic regression, support vector machines, decision tree and Random Forest Classifier are used to classify and cluster it into levels of priority. Feedback is then sent from the database to a mine worker smart watch based on priority level. In cases where the priority level is extreme, indicating high levels of noise, the smart watch vibrates to alert the miner. The developed system was tested in a mock mine environment consisting of a 67 metres tunnel located in the basement of a building whose roof top represents the “surface” of a mine. The mock-mine shape, size of the tunnel, steel-support infrastructure, and ventilation system are analogous to deep hard-rock mine. The wireless channel propagation of the mock-mine is statistically characterized in 2.4–2.5 GHz frequency band. Actual underground mine material was used to build the mock mine to ensure it mimics a real mine as close as possible. The system was tested by 50 participants both male and female ranging from ages of 18 to 60 years.

Results and discussion

Preliminary results of the system show decision tree had the highest accuracy compared to the other algorithms used. It has an average testing accuracy of 91.25% and average training accuracy of 99.79%. The system also showed a good response level in terms of detection of noise input levels of exposure, transmission of the information to the data base and communication of recommendations to the miner. The developed system is still undergoing further refinements and testing prior to being tested in an actual mine.
Exploring the impacts of ketogenic diet on reversible hepatic steatosis: initial analysis in male mice
Authors: Ravaut Gaetan , Carneiro Anthony , Mounier Catherine
Published: March 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease. Ketogenic diet (KD), a diet with very low intake in carbohydrates, gained popularity as a weight-loss approach. However, in mice models, it has been reported that an excess exposition of dietary fat induces hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis. However, data published is inconsistent. Herein, we investigated in a mouse model, the metabolic effects of KD and its contribution to the pathogenesis of NALFD. Mice were exposed to KD or CHOW diet for 12 weeks while a third group was exposed to KD for also 12 weeks and then switched to CHOW diet for 4 weeks to determine if we can rescue the phenotype. We evaluated the effects of diet treatments on fat distribution, glucose, and insulin homeostasis as well as hepatic steatosis. Mice fed with KD developed glucose intolerance but not insulin resistance accompanied by an increase of inflammation. KD-fed mice showed an increase of fat accumulation in white adipose tissue and liver. This effect could be explained by an increase in fat uptake by the liver with no changes of catabolism leading to MAFLD. Interestingly, we were able to rescue the phenotype by switching KD-fed mice for 4 weeks on a CHOW diet. Our studies demonstrate that even if mice develop hepatic steatosis and glucose intolerance after 12 weeks of KD, they do not develop insulin resistance and more importantly, the phenotype can be reversed by switching the mice from a KD to a CHOW.
Genetic diversity and candidate genes for transient waterlogging tolerance in mungbean at the germination and seedling stages
Authors: Kyu Khin Lay , Taylor Candy M. , Douglas Colin Andrew , Malik Al Imran , Colmer Timothy David , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Erskine William
Published: March 2024

Mungbean [Vigna radiata var. radiata (L.) Wilczek] production in Asia is detrimentally affected by transient soil waterlogging caused by unseasonal and increasingly frequent extreme precipitation events. While mungbean exhibits sensitivity to waterlogging, there has been insufficient exploration of germplasm for waterlogging tolerance, as well as limited investigation into the genetic basis for tolerance to identify valuable loci. This research investigated the diversity of transient waterlogging tolerance in a mini−core germplasm collection of mungbean and identified candidate genes for adaptive traits of interest using genome−wide association studies (GWAS) at two critical stages of growth: germination and seedling stage (i.e., once the first trifoliate leaf had fully−expanded). In a temperature−controlled glasshouse, 292 genotypes were screened for tolerance after (i) 4 days of waterlogging followed by 7 days of recovery at the germination stage and (ii) 8 days of waterlogging followed by 7 days of recovery at the seedling stage. Tolerance was measured against drained controls. GWAS was conducted using 3,522 high−quality DArTseq−derived SNPs, revealing five significant associations with five phenotypic traits indicating improved tolerance. Waterlogging tolerance was positively correlated with the formation of adventitious roots and higher dry masses. FGGY carbohydrate kinase domain−containing protein was identified as a candidate gene for adventitious rooting and mRNA-uncharacterized LOC111241851, Caffeoyl-CoA O-methyltransferase At4g26220 and MORC family CW-type zinc finger protein 3 and zinc finger protein 2B genes for shoot, root, and total dry matter production. Moderate to high broad−sense heritability was exhibited for all phenotypic traits, including seed emergence (81%), adventitious rooting (56%), shoot dry mass (81%), root dry mass (79%) and SPAD chlorophyll content (70%). The heritability estimates, marker−trait associations, and identification of sources of waterlogging tolerant germplasm from this study demonstrate high potential for marker−assisted selection of tolerance traits to accelerate breeding of climate−resilient mungbean varieties.
Childhood maltreatment and personality disorders in adolescents and adults with psychotic or non-psychotic disorders
Authors: Wang WenZheng , Cui Yin , Hu Qiang , Wei YanYan , Xu LiHua , Tang XiaoChen , Hu YeGang , Liu HaiChun , Wang ZiXuan , Chen Tao , Wang Ran , An CuiXia , Wang JiJun , Zhang TianHong
Published: March 2024

Introduction

While the attention to personality disorders (PD) and childhood maltreatment (CM) has grown in recent years, there remains limited understanding of the prevalence and distinctions of PD and CM in clinical populations of Chinese adolescents in comparison to adults.

Methods

A total of 1,417 participants were consecutively sampled from patients diagnosed with either psychotic or non-psychotic disorders in the psychiatric and psycho-counseling clinics at Shanghai Mental Health Center. The participants were categorized into two groups based on their age: adolescents (aged 15-21 years) and adults (aged 22-35 years). PDs were evaluated using a self-reported personality diagnostic questionnaire and a structured clinical interview, while CMs were assessed using the Chinese version of the Child Trauma Questionnaire Short Form.

Results

When comparing self-reported PD traits and CM between adolescents and adults, differences emerge. Adolescents, particularly in the psychotic disorder group, exhibit more pronounced schizotypal PD traits (p=0.029), and this pattern extends to non-psychotic disorders (p<0.001). Adolescents in the non-psychotic disorder group also report higher levels of emotional abuse (p=0.014), with a notable trend in physical abuse experiences compared to adults (p=0.057). Furthermore, the most prevalent PDs in the clinical sample are avoidant, borderline, and obsessive-compulsive PDs. Among patients with psychotic disorders, adolescents exhibit higher rates of schizoid, schizotypal, and obsessive-compulsive PDs compared to adults. Logistic regression analyses highlight distinct predictors for psychotic and non-psychotic disorders in adolescents and adults.

Discussion

The findings emphasize distinct differences in PDs and CMs between adolescent and adult groups, shedding light on their potential roles in psychotic and non-psychotic disorders.
COVID-19 vaccine intercountry distribution inequality and its underlying factors: a combined concentration index analysis and multiple linear regression analysis
Authors: Abu El Kheir-Mataria Wafa , Khadr Zeinab , El Fawal Hassan , Chun Sungsoo
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Inequitable access to COVID-19 vaccines among countries is a pressing global health issue. Factors such as economic power, political power, political stability, and health system strength contribute to disparities in vaccine distribution. This study aims to assess the inequality in vaccine distribution among countries based on these factors and identify their relationship with COVID-19 vaccine distribution.

Methods

A Concentration Index (CI) analysis was conducted to evaluate inequalities in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines among countries based on four separate variables: GDP per capita, political stability (PS), World Power Index (WPI), and Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Additionally, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) analysis was employed to explore the relationship between vaccine distribution and these independent variables. Two vaccine distribution variables were utilized for result reliability.

Results

The analysis revealed significant inequalities in COVID-19 vaccine distribution according to the countries’ GDP/capita, PS, WPI, and UHC. However, the multiple linear regression analysis showed that there is no significant relationship between COVID-19 vaccine distribution and the countries’ GDP/capita and that UHC is the most influential factor impacting COVID-19 vaccine distribution and accessibility.

Discussion

The findings underscore the complex interplay between economic, political, and health system factors in shaping vaccine distribution patterns. To improve the accessibility to vaccines in future pandemics, Global Health Governance (GHG) and countries should consider working on three areas; enhance political stabilities in countries, separate the political power from decision-making at the global level and most importantly support countries to achieve UHC.
Senescence: A DNA damage response and its role in aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Shreeya Tejal , Ansari Mohd Saifullah , Kumar Prabhat , Saifi Muskan , Shati Ali A. , Alfaifi Mohammad Y. , Elbehairi Serag Eldin I.
Published: March 2024

Senescence is a complicated, multi-factorial, irreversible cell cycle halt that has a tumor-suppressing effect in addition to being a significant factor in aging and neurological diseases. Damaged DNA, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and disrupted proteostasis are a few of the factors that cause senescence. Senescence is triggered by DNA damage which initiates DNA damage response. The DNA damage response, which includes the formation of DNA damage foci containing activated H2AX, which is a key factor in cellular senescence, is provoked by a double strand DNA break. Oxidative stress impairs cognition, inhibits neurogenesis, and has an accelerated aging effect. Senescent cells generate pro-inflammatory mediators known as senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). These pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines have an impact on neuroinflammation, neuronal death, and cell proliferation. While it is tempting to think of neurodegenerative diseases as manifestations of accelerated aging and senescence, this review will present information on brain ageing and neurodegeneration as a result of senescence and DNA damage response.
Associations between Household Food Insecurity and Depressive Symptomology among Adolescent Girls and Young Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Africa
Authors: Carries Stanley , Sigwadhi Lovemore Nyasha , Moyo Audrey , Wagner Colleen , Mathews Catherine , Govindasamy Darshini
Published: March 2024

Evidence suggests an association between food insecurity and depressive symptomatology; however, little is known about the association between adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in the context of COVID-19. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between household food insecurity (HFI) and depressive symptomology among AGYW in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary data analysis was conducted using cross-sectional data collected from the HERStory2 study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were collected from 515 AGYW (aged 15–24 years) recruited from six South African districts using a demographic detail and socio-economic questionnaire as well as the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CESD-10) Scale. Data were fitted using a multi-variable robust Poisson regression model and controlled for sociodemographic and health factors. The results suggest that the majority of the sample of AGYW were 20 years old, with 74% exposed to HFI and 30.29% experiencing depressive symptomology. AGYW exposed to HFI were 1.80 times at risk of depressive symptomology compared to those from food-secure households [adjusted risk ratio (aRR): 1.80; 95% CI: 1.35–2.42, p < 0.0001)]. Future pandemic-preparedness strategies should incorporate screening for HFI as a means to identify AGYW who may require psychosocial support.
Automated Grading of Angelica sinensis Using Computer Vision and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Zhang Zimei , Xiao Jianwei , Wang Wenjie , Zielinska Magdalena , Wang Shanyu , Liu Ziliang , Zheng Zhian
Published: March 2024

Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, a member of the Umbelliferae family, is commonly known as Danggui (Angelica sinensis, AS). AS has the functions of blood tonic, menstrual pain relief, and laxatives. Accurate classification of AS grades is crucial for efficient market management and consumer health. The commonly used method to classify AS grades depends on the evaluator’s observation and experience. However, this method has issues such as unquantifiable parameters and inconsistent identification results among different evaluators, resulting in a relatively chaotic classification of AS in the market. To address these issues, this study introduced a computer vision-based approach to intelligently grade AS. Images of AS at five grades were acquired, denoised, and segmented, followed by extraction of shape, color, and texture features. Thirteen feature parameters were selected based on difference and correlation analysis, including tail area, whole body area, head diameter, G average, B average, R variances, G variances, B variances, R skewness, G skewness, B skewness, S average, and V average, which exhibited significant differences and correlated with grades. These parameters were then used to train and test both the traditional back propagation neural network (BPNN) and the BPNN model improved with a growing optimizer (GOBPNN). Results showed that the GOBPNN model achieved significantly higher average testing precision, recall, F-score, and accuracy (97.1%, 95.9%, 96.5%, and 95.0%, respectively) compared to the BPNN model. The method combining machine vision technology with GOBPNN enabled efficient, objective, rapid, non-destructive, and cost effective AS grading.