bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Grit, Mindset and Intention to Continue Training of Yoga Participants
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Jiseol , Kim Gukhwa
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of yoga practitioners' grit on their mindset and intention to continue training. For the data processing of this study, SPSS 28.0 was used for proceeding statistically, and for analyzing the data, this study conducted the reliance analysis, the correlation analysis, the multiple regression analysis. The results drawn from such analyses were as follows. First, in the results of examining the effects of grit on mindset, the factors of grit such as significantly positive effects on the growth mindset. Second, in the results of examining the effects of yoga participants grit on continuous Training Intention, the factors of grit such as significantly positive effects on intention to continue training. Third, in the results of examining the effects of yoga participants mindset on continuous training Intention, the factors of mindset such as significantly positive effects on the intention to continue training.
Exploratory Study of the Analgesic Effects of Music for Digital Therapeutics
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Choi Suvin
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this research is to explore the individual characteristics of responses to music in order to advance its analgesic effects using a digital therapeutics platform. In this study, the difference in reactions to music based on influence of personal characteristics, specifically gender, will be explored. The study consists of measuring anxiety sensitivity as an influential factor on the analgesic effects of music. Participants were divided by gender and adopted a 3-period 3-sequence crossover design. Under this structure, pain responses were measured under three conditions: ‘music’, ‘news’, and ‘control (no sound)’. Pain responses such as pain tolerance time (PT), pain intensity (PI), and pain unpleasantness (PU) were measured. In the experimental group(hereafter ‘the male group’), the analgesic effects of music were observed on PT and PU under the music condition as opposed to news and control. However, these effects were observed on PI in the music condition for the control group (hereafter ‘the female group’). According to the results of this research, it is suggested to also consider gender as a factor for effecttive use of music-based digital therapeutics.
The Mediating Effect of Relational Consumption in the Effects of University Students' Sense of Community on Consumer Happiness: Focusing on the Moderated Mediating Effect of Loneliness
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Myungsook
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to analyze the mediating effect of relational consumption and the mediating effect of controlled loneliness in the relationship between university students' sense of community and consumer happiness in condition of COVID-19. An online survey was conducted from May 4~31, 2023, and 288 copies were analyzed using the SPSS 25.0 program and Haves' SPSS Process Macro. The results of the study are as follows: First, it was found that only the relational consumption of factor 1, factor 3, and factor 4 had a mediating effect affecting consumer happiness. Second, the moderating effect of loneliness in the relationship between sense of community and relational consumption was significantly different depending on the level of loneliness in factor 2. Third, the mediating effect controlled by loneliness was significant only for factor 2.
The Effect of Comparative Program on Improving Learning Capabilities: Focusing on the Case of University A
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jeon Hyeonok
Published: October 2023

In this study, we tried to check the changes in the learning capabilities of students who participated in the program provided based on the comparative department system of University A, and to see whether there is a difference in the impact of the comparative department. To this end, a MANOVA analysis was conducted on 501 people who participated in the Comparative Division of University A using a learning competency measurement tool(DIA-LC). As a result, it was confirmed that study group learning tutoring learning consulting contributed to the improvement of linked learning capabilities, affecting 42% learning commitment, 34% practical learning, and 24% self-determination learning motivation. Based on this study, it is hoped that the non-subject, which positively affects students' learning capabilities, will be established as an axis of the curriculum closely linked to major and liberal arts, and the administrative and institutional foundation at the university level will be reorganized.
Collective Unconscious of Generative Artificial Intelligence and ‘Promptography’: Focusing on Boris Eldagsen's Pseudomnesia: The Electrician Controversy
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Shin Hongju
Published: October 2023

This study examines the influence and significance of the emergence of artificial intelligence on the art world, with a specific focus on the controversy ignited by Boris Eldagsen's generative artificial intelligence image titled Pseudomnesia: The Electrician. Eldagsen introduced the term 'promptography,' asserting that images generated by artificial intelligence should be distinct from traditional photographs. The prompts fed into artificial intelligence systems capture the artist's vision and creative efforts, making promptography effective in elucidating the creative process through prompts and forms independent of content. Eldagsen’s work demonstrates a dematerialized imagination drawn from an extensive database through artificial intelligence technology. This process becomes an ontological mirror of humanity by opening a passage to the collective unconscious through data accumulated from human emotions and experiences.
ON THE POSSIBILITY OF INITIALIZATION OF SYNTHESIS IN SMALL-SIZED INSTALLATIONS WITH QUADRUPOLE MAGNETIC SYSTEMS WITH SPHERICAL СUMULATION OF SHOCK MAGNETIC WAVES IN THE BLANKET CONFIGURATION OF PLASMA DISCRETS
Authors:   Samara National Research University named after academician S.P. Korolev, Samara, Russian Federation, SOMOV A.I. , SVIRKOV V.B. ,   LLC Technological Platform “Nuclear and Subatomic Technologies” (TP A&ST), Samara, Russian Federation, RADENKO V.V. ,   LLC Scientific and Production Company “New Energy”, Samara, Russian Federation, DOLGOPOLOV M.V. ,   Samara State Technical University, VASILIEV I.V. , BAGROV A.R.
Published: October 2023

The article presents an overview of models for solving the problem of controlled nuclear fusion, including in small-sized installations, methods and technology for obtaining and forming electronically controlled plasma and ion flows in a magnetic field. The sizes of such an installation in the pilot version are up to 1.5 meters long, due to the grouping of flows by sampling with a frequency of about 1 kHz achievable for materials today, multi-passability in the synthesis chamber, in traps and setting the laws of following with feedback for ion flows in plasma layers in magnetic field systems with the large gradient. The shock wave causes rapid heating of the convection mixing region, triggering a process of constant energy exchange between the heated mixture 11B-9Be and the lithium shell and, passing through the layer 11B-9Be, reaches the geometric center of the magnetic trap, where a small spherical cavity will be maintained, necessary for unlimited spherical cumulation on the cavity. This leads to a rapid increase in temperature and pressure in the area of collapse of the bubble, and makes it possible to increase the temperature to 108 K, which allows the launch of fusion reactions.
DESCRIPTION OF THE SIMPLEST NON-MARKOV PROCESS USING A DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION FOR THE QUANTUM STATE VECTOR
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation, OZHIGOV YU.I. ,   Valiev Institute of Physics and Technology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, VICTOROVA N.B. ,   Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: October 2023

The Jaynes-Cummings model with one atom and a photon is considered. A photon leaks out of the cavity (optical resonator). An atom can be in an excited and ground state. Usually, the dynamics of the probability of finding a photon in a cavity is considered using the basic quantum Lindblad equation, in which the density matrix acts as an unknown function. The Lindblad equation describes a quantum Markov random process. The article attempts to replace the equation from the density matrix with an ersatz of the Lindblad equation, which is a differential equation from the state wave vector. The quantum master equation involves the use of a matrix with a dimension equal to the dimension of the state space, which increases the complexity of the calculations, since it requires a quadratically large memory. For example, for the dimension of the main space equal to a billion, the memory required to solve the basic quantum equation will be about a quintillion, which is a problem even for supercomputers. Whereas a billion-long column fits easily into the memory of a personal computer and can be easily processed on a personal laptop. The ersatz of the quantum master equation, which we are constructing, cannot accurately describe the dynamics of the density matrix and therefore cannot serve as an exact replacement for the quantum master equation. Our ersatz will describe a special process of exchange with the environment.
SOCIAL SUBJECTS OF LEGAL RELATIONS: CONSTITUTIONAL REFRAIN
Authors:   Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russian Federation, MARKHEIM M.V. , LUKYANOVA I.YU.
Published: October 2023

In the article, the authors, based on the attributive importance of the subject in legal relations, taking into account approaches to their scientific and sectoral development, based on the analysis of the texts of the Constitution of Russia and a number of CIS countries, presented generalizations and conclusions concerning the subject of a number of constitutional legal relations. In order to reveal the specific groups of social subjects of constitutional legal relations, the paper also analyzes public subjects, which, having their own varieties, are united by involvement in the implementation of the constitutional obligation to protect human and civil rights and freedoms. The authors substantiate that the coupling of social subjects of constitutional legal relations with the rights and freedoms addressed to them solves the problems of the adequacy of human rights and restrictive measures. It is also noted that along with universal social subjects - a person and a citizen - the constitutional texts use generalized and concretized versions of the definition of such subjects through the appropriate pronouns and “personality”. With regard to the Constitution of Russia, it is concluded that “personality” is a category that unites all other names of individual social subjects.
THE ROLE OF THE NOTARY IN THE PROTECTION OF FAMILY RIGHTS: TRENDS AND PROSPECTS
Authors:   Institute of State and Law of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation, LETOVA N.V.
Published: October 2023

The article deals with the problems of theory and practice that arise in connection with the notarization of certain types of transactions made in the field of family relations (marriage contract, agreement on the division of common property of spouses, etc.). The author has identified common features of such transactions, identified their distinctive features, proved their influence on the procedure for their notarization. The issue of the role and significance of the activities of the notary as a body providing effective protection of the rights and legitimate interests of participants in family relations is considered separately, general trends in the development of family and notarial legislation in the Russian Federation are systematized.
PEOPLE’S CONTROL AS A METHOD OF COUNTERING CORRUPTION
Authors:   All-Russian State University of Justice, Moscow, Russian Federation, NEJMYSHEV L.A.
Published: October 2023

The paper aims to illustrate that corruption is not solely a negative occurrence that damages public interests; it is also a force that cultivates a pessimistic outlook among citizens towards state structures. The author evaluates the extent of influence and scrutinizes the role of legal nihilism on the paradigm of civil society development and the establishment of citizens’ trust in the authorities over an extended period. By examining examples, the potential of employing the principles of people’s control as a tool for citizen-authority interaction is assessed. Options are presented to enhance the quality of the system’s functioning.
Therapeutic efficacy of omalizumab in children with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma combined with chronic sinusitis
Authors: Chong Weikun , Li Hailang , Wang Juan
Published: October 2023

Background

Omalizumab has been approved for treating moderate-to-severe asthma in children aged over 6 years. Its application to asthmatic children with other allergic diseases has been rarely explored. The present study aims to explore the therapeutic efficacy of omalizumab in children with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma combined with chronic sinusitis.

Methods

The clinical data of children diagnosed with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma combined with chronic sinusitis and treated with omalizumab between September 2020 and April 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Lung function indexes such as Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT) scores, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) percent predicted (FEV1%pred), small airway function indexes, and the clinical symptoms of chronic sinusitis were analyzed.

Results

A total of 26 children were observed for 16 weeks. After 16 weeks of omalizumab treatment, the significantly increased C-ACT scores (15.57 ± 3.25 points vs. 24.98 ± 5.21 points, F = 15.7112, P < 0.001) and decreased FeNO (31.55 ± 15.57 ppb vs. 19.86 ± 9.80 ppb, F = 4.4265, P = 0.0022), compared with those at baseline, were suggestive of well-controlled symptoms of asthma and improved lung function. FEV1%pred and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (the ratio of the forced expiratory volume in the first 1 s to the forced vital capacity) increased after omalizumab treatment, although no significant differences were detected (P = 0.9954 and 0.9382, respectively). Peak expiratory flow (PEF) percent predicted (PEF%pred) and forced expiratory flow at 75% of FVC (FEF75%), 50% of FVC (FEF50%), and 25%–75% of FVC (FEF25%–75%) significantly increased after omalizumab treatment (P = 0.0477, <0.001, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively). Visual analog scale scores significantly decreased after omalizumab treatment (6.40 ± 2.98 points vs. 0.85 ± 0.40 points, t = 27.2419, P < 0.001), suggesting alleviation in the clinical symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

Conclusion

In this study, it was found that omalizumab can effectively alleviate clinical symptoms and improve lung function and quality of life in children with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma combined with chronic sinusitis.
Regulation of the somatotropic axis by MYC-mediated miRNA repression
Authors: Petrashen Anna P. , Verdesca Andrew D. , Kreiling Jill A. , Sedivy John M.
Published: October 2023

The transcription factor MYC is overexpressed in many human cancers and has a significant causal role in tumor incidence and progression. In contrast, Myc+/− heterozygous mice, which have decreased MYC expression, exhibit a 10–20% increase in lifespan and a decreased incidence or progression of several age-related diseases. Myc heterozygous mice were also reported to have decreased mTOR and IGF1 signaling, two pathways whose reduced activity is associated with longevity in diverse species. Given MYC’s downstream role in these pathways, the downregulation of mTOR and IGF1 signaling in Myc heterozygotes suggests the presence of feedback loops within this regulatory network. In this communication we provide further evidence that the reduction of Myc expression in Myc+/− heterozygous mice provokes a female-specific decrease in circulating IGF1 as well as a reduction of IGF1 protein in the liver. In particular, reduced Myc expression led to upregulation of miRNAs that target the Igf1 transcript, thereby inhibiting its translation and leading to decreased IGF1 protein levels. Using Argonaute (AGO)-CLIP-sequencing we found enrichment of AGO binding in the Igf1 transcript at the target sites of let-7, miR-122, and miR-29 in female, but not male Myc heterozygotes. Upregulation of the liver-specific miR-122 in primary hepatocytes in culture and in vivo in mice resulted in significant downregulation of IGF1 protein, but not mRNA. Reduced levels of IGF1 increased GH production in the pituitary through a well-documented negative-feedback relationship. In line with this, we found that IGF1 levels in bone (where miR-122 is not expressed) were unchanged, consistent with the decreased incidence of osteoporosis in female Myc heterozygotes, despite decreased circulating IGF1.
Alterations of lower respiratory tract microbiome and short-chain fatty acids in different segments in lung cancer: a multiomics analysis
Authors: Zhang Yong , Chen Xiangxiang , Wang Yuan , Li Ling , Ju Qing , Zhang Yan , Xi Hangtian , Wang Fahan , Qiu Dan , Liu Xingchen , Chang Ning , Zhang Weiqi , Zhang Cong , Wang Ke , Li Ling , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The lower respiratory tract microbiome is widely studied to pinpoint microbial dysbiosis of diversity or abundance that is linked to a number of chronic respiratory illnesses. However, it is vital to clarify how the microbiome, through the release of microbial metabolites, impacts lung health and oncogenesis.

Methods

In order to discover the powerful correlations between microbial metabolites and disease, we collected, under electronic bronchoscopy examinations, samples of paired bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) from tumor-burden lung segments and ipsilateral non-tumor sites from 28 lung cancer participants, further performing metagenomic sequencing, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolomics, and multiomics analysis to uncover the potential correlations of the microbiome and SCFAs in lung cancer.

Results

In comparison to BALFs from normal lung segments of the same participant, those from lung cancer burden lung segments had slightly decreased microbial diversity in the lower respiratory tract. With 18 differentially prevalent microbial species, including the well-known carcinogens Campylobacter jejuni and Nesseria polysaccharea, the relative species abundance in the lower respiratory tract microbiome did not significantly differ between the two groups. Additionally, a collection of commonly recognized probiotic metabolites called short-chain fatty acids showed little significance in either group independently but revealed a strong predictive value when using an integrated model by machine learning. Multiomics also discovered particular species related to SCFAs, showing a positive correlation with Brachyspira hydrosenteriae and a negative one with Pseudomonas at the genus level, despite limited detection in lower airways. Of note, these distinct microbiota and metabolites corresponded with clinical traits that still required confirmation.

Conclusions

Further analysis of metagenome functional capacity revealed that genes encoding environmental information processing and metabolism pathways were enriched in the lower respiratory tract metagenomes of lung cancer patients, further supporting the oncogenesis function of various microbial species by different metabolites. These findings point to a potent relationship between particular components of the integrated microbiota-metabolites network and lung cancer, with implications for screening and diagnosis in clinical settings.
Atmosphere, mood, and scientific explanation
Authors: Kirsh David
Published: October 2023

In this article, I consider how scientific theories may explain architectural atmosphere. Architects use atmosphere to refer to a holistic, emergent property of a space that partly determines the mood of inhabitants. It is said to be a “subtle, intangible, ambient quality of a place” that also significantly shapes the way we interact with a space. It is caused by the way light, texture, materials, layout, geometry, acoustics, smell, and other perceptual properties influence affect. But it goes beyond these individually because of non-linear interactions between them. In sections one and two, I explain what an externalist account of the atmosphere would look like. This is an interpretation that objectifies the atmosphere, treating it as a complex causal property of buildings and spaces, accessible to scientific study through ethnographic research, through quantifying and minutely observing and recording humans and the buildings they are in, and then using machine learning and statistical analyses to identify correlations. The goal is to push the identification of the underlying external attributes as far as possible, ultimately to where a machine might enter a room, move around, and then label its atmosphere. In section three, I explore an internalist or subjectivist account of the atmosphere. This is the position that pushes back on machine identification of atmospheres. A subjectivist interpretation is harder to study scientifically because it involves knowing so much about the inner state and the history of a person. Culture, incoming mood, prior experience and associations, interests, tasks, social interaction, and more may all affect mood. Section four explores the frequently underestimated role—on emotion and space comprehension—played by the tasks that occupants perform while in a space, and the way their surrounding social and technological context intrudes on their encounter. I introduce and defend the view that tasks, social context, and nearby technology situate a person in a different environment than when they are inactive. This complicates the search for atmosphere. Nonetheless, I end on an optimistic note that there may yet be a place for atmosphere in the neuroscience of architecture, but it will be much different than our current thinking.
Midterm prognosis following total correction of tetralogy of fallot in adult patients
Authors: Khajali Zahra , Mohammadi Nasibeh , Toloueitabar Yaser , Maleki Majid , Saedi Sedigheh , nourouzi Zeinab , Mazloum-Zadeh Saeideh , Chenaghloo Maryam , Jalali Amirhossein , Tatari Hassan , Aliramezany Maryam
Published: October 2023

Background

Tetralogy of Fallot is a common congenital heart disease characterized by cyanosis. The primary treatment approach involves corrective surgery typically performed within the first year of life to achieve complete resolution. However, certain patients may undergo surgery at an older age. This study seeks to assess the efficacy of surgery by examining the midterm outcomes of total correction of Tetralogy of Fallot when performed in older individuals.

Methods

This interventional-longitudinal study focused on patients who underwent complete surgery to correct tetralogy of Fallot at an advanced age of over 15 years. All of the participants were referred to the Shahid Rajaei Heart and Vascular Center, which is a referral center for congenital heart diseases in Iran, between 2010 and 2020. The surgical procedures for these patients involved primary total correction of tetralogy of Fallot or surgery following by shunt implantation. Prior to the surgery, the necessary information was gathered from the patients' medical records. The patients were then monitored over a 5-year period, during which they received regular check-ups from cardiologist with fellowship in adult congenital heart disease.

Results

A total of 94 participants were enrolled in the study, with an average age of 26.7 ± 9.6 years. Notably, the majority of the participants were male. The study reported a late mortality rate of 3.2%. Furthermore, 17 patients, constituting 18% of the cohort, underwent a secondary surgical procedure. This secondary surgery encompassed 14 cases of Pulmonary Valve Replacement (14.8%) and 3 cases of Ventricular Septal Defect repair (3.1%).

Conclusion

While the optimal age for total correction of Tetralogy of Fallot is conventionally considered to be within the first year of life, this study demonstrated that surgical intervention performed at a later stage of life can yield favorable midterm prognoses. It is imperative to emphasize that individuals unable to undergo surgery at the ideal age due to a multitude of factors should not be deprived of the potential benefits associated with surgical intervention.
Gene therapy during ex situ heart perfusion: a new frontier in cardiac regenerative medicine?
Authors: Vervoorn Mats T. , Amelink Jantijn J. G. J. , Ballan Elisa M. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Sluijter Joost P. G. , Mishra Mudit , Boink Gerard J. J. , Bowles Dawn E. , van der Kaaij Niels P.
Published: October 2023

Ex situ organ preservation by machine perfusion can improve preservation of organs for transplantation. Furthermore, machine perfusion opens up the possibilities for selective immunomodulation, creation of tolerance to ischemia-reperfusion injury and/or correction of a pathogenic genetic defect. The application of gene modifying therapies to treat heart diseases caused by pathogenic mutations during ex situ heart perfusion seems promising, especially given the limitations related to delivery of vectors that were encountered during clinical trials using in vivo cardiac gene therapy. By isolating the heart in a metabolically and immunologically favorable environment and preventing off-target effects and dilution, it is possible to directly control factors that enhance the success rate of cardiac gene therapy. A literature search of PubMed and Embase databases was performed to identify all relevant studies regarding gene therapy during ex situ heart perfusion, aiming to highlight important lessons learned and discuss future clinical prospects of this promising approach.
Building inclusive excellence in STEM: a 15-year analysis and Lessons Learned of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Minority Ph.D. Program at the University of South Florida
Authors: Diaz-Elsayed Nancy , Acuna Jorge A. , Henderson Michelle , Isaacs Wainella , Cantarino Daniela , Bosson Jennifer K. , Polk Tramaine , Robinson Patricia , Batson Bernard , Zayas-Castro José L.
Published: October 2023

In 2016, only 7 percent of African American and Hispanic students earned research doctorates in the critical disciplines of engineering, computing, and the physical sciences. In academia, diversity fairs even worse as historically underrepresented minorities represented just 6.1 percent of tenured and tenure-track faculty in engineering. The aim of this effort is to understand the “best practices” for the recruitment and mentoring of minority doctoral students in science and engineering disciplines. This was achieved through a literature review, surveys and focus groups with members of the University of South Florida’s (USF’s) Sloan University Center of Exemplary Mentoring (UCEM), and interviews with faculty champions. Between 2005 and 2020, 136 graduate students have been supported (43% African American, 56.2% Hispanic, 0.8% Native American), of which 87 percent are expected to earn doctorate degrees. Results indicate that the decision to apply and enroll at USF was largely driven by the alignment of research interests with potential advisors, the quality of funding, and positive interactions with mentors, enrolled students, and alumni who provide evidence of a welcoming climate. Ten practices for mentoring doctoral students are provided, which include creating and promoting an inclusive environment and providing a student-centered approach to mentoring. Our effort to build inclusive excellence and foster social justice in graduate education for African American and Hispanic doctoral students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is one that can be modeled and adapted by other institutions to align with their institutional culture and values.
Sleep characteristics before assisted reproductive technology treatment predict reproductive outcomes: a prospective cohort study of Chinese infertile women
Authors: Li Qian-Ling , Wang Chao , Cao Ke-Xin , Zhang Lin , Xu Yun-Shuai , Chang Liang , Liu Zhen-Hui , Yang Ai-Jun , Xue Yan-Xue
Published: October 2023

Sleep disorders affect mental and physical health. Infertile women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment are prone to sleep disorders. Sleep condition, its influencing factors, and the association between sleep condition and ART treatment outcomes before treatment have not been explored within a population with a large sample size. Therefore, we investigated the sleep characteristics of 1002 Chinese infertile women before ovulation induction and investigated the influencing factors (negative and positive psychological factors, demographics, and fertility characteristics). We also examined whether sleep conditions before treatment predicted reproductive outcomes. We found that 24.1% of participants reported poor sleep quality. Women with primary infertility reported poorer sleep than women with secondary infertility. Negative psychological factors, including depression, anxiety, and perceived stress were associated with poor sleep, whereas positive affect was linked with good sleep. Adverse sleep characteristics, including poor subjective sleep quality, sleep disturbances, and poor sleep efficiency, decreased the quantity and quality of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rates, and clinical pregnancy rates. This study indicates that before ART treatment, a large number of females with infertility suffer from sleep problems, which are affected by psychological factors and infertility type, and unhealthy sleep characteristics may impair treatment outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of screening and treatment for sleep disorders before the enrollment of ART treatment in infertile women.
Metabolism of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: what can omics tell us?
Authors: Jannin Arnaud , Dessein Anne-Frédérique , Do Cao Christine , Vantyghem Marie-Christine , Chevalier Benjamin , Van Seuningen Isabelle , Jonckheere Nicolas , Coppin Lucie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Reprogramming of cellular metabolism is now a hallmark of tumorigenesis. In recent years, research on pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) has focused on genetic and epigenetic modifications and related signaling pathways, but few studies have been devoted to characterizing the metabolic profile of these tumors. In this review, we thoroughly investigate the metabolic pathways in pNETs by analyzing the transcriptomic and metabolomic data available in the literature.

Methodology

We retrieved and downloaded gene expression profiles from all publicly available gene set enrichments (GSE43797, GSE73338, and GSE117851) to compare the differences in expressed genes based on both the stage and MEN1 mutational status. In addition, we conducted a systematic review of metabolomic data in NETs.

Results

By combining transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches, we have identified a distinctive metabolism in pNETs compared with controls without pNETs. Our analysis showed dysregulations in the one-carbon, glutathione, and polyamine metabolisms, fatty acid biosynthesis, and branched-chain amino acid catabolism, which supply the tricarboxylic acid cycle. These targets are implicated in pNET cell proliferation and metastasis and could also have a prognostic impact. When analyzing the profiles of patients with or without metastasis, or with or without MEN1 mutation, we observed only a few differences due to the scarcity of published clinical data in the existing research. Consequently, further studies are now necessary to validate our data and investigate these potential targets as biomarkers or therapeutic solutions, with a specific focus on pNETs.
Two-tier coordinated optimal scheduling of wind/PV/hydropower and storage systems based on generative adversarial network scene generation
Authors: Cai Changchun , Li Yuanjia , He Yaoyao , Guo Lei
Published: October 2023

In order to achieve the economic consumption of renewable energy in a multi-energy power system including wind/PV/hydropower and energy storage, a two-tier coordinated optimal scheduling method based on generative adversarial network (GAN) scenario generation is proposed in this paper. First, an upper-tier optimization model for the operation of the load and storage system is established to achieve the objective of minimizing the load fluctuation and the cost of energy storage plants. Furthermore, a lower-tier optimization model to minimize the system operation cost and tide risk is established for the optimization operation of renewable energy generation. Second, an improved generative adversarial network is proposed to generate the operation scenes for evaluating the uncertainty characteristics of the wind and photovoltaic (PV) generation. Then, an improved coati optimization algorithm (COA) is used to solve the proposed optimization problem. Finally, the IEEE 30-bus system is selected as the example system for verifying the proposed method. The simulation results corroborate the validity and feasibility of the proposed method.
Novel lipid antigens for NKT cells in cancer
Authors: Lee Michael S. , Webb Tonya J.
Published: October 2023

Cancer immunotherapy aims to unleash the power of the immune system against tumors without the side effects of traditional chemotherapy. Immunotherapeutic methods vary widely, but all follow the same basic principle: overcome the barriers utilized by cancers to avoid immune destruction. These approaches often revolve around classical T cells, such as with CAR T cells and neoantigen vaccines; however, the utility of the innate-like iNKT cell in cancer immunotherapy has gained significant recognition. iNKT cells parallel classic T cell recognition of peptide antigens presented on MHC through their recognition of lipid antigens presented on the MHC I-like molecule CD1d. Altered metabolism and a lipogenic phenotype are essential properties of tumor cells, representing a unique feature that may be exploited by iNKT cells. In this review, we will cover properties of iNKT cells, CD1d, and lipid antigen presentation. Next, we will discuss the cancer lipidome and how it may be exploited by iNKT cells through a window of opportunity. Finally, we will review, in detail, novel lipid antigens for iNKT cells in cancer.
Bovine colostrum and its potential contributions for treatment and prevention of COVID-19
Authors: Duman Hatice , Karav Sercan
Published: October 2023

Bovine colostrum (BC) is the initial milk an animal produces after giving birth, particularly in the first few days. Numerous bioactive substances found in BC, including proteins, enzymes, growth factors, immunoglobulins, etc., are beneficial to human health. BC has a significant role to play as part of a healthy diet, with well-documented health and nutritional advantages for people. Therefore, the use of BC and its crucial derivatives in the development of functional food and pharmaceuticals for the prevention of several diseases such as gastrointestinal and respiratory system disorders is becoming increasingly popular around the world. A novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified as the cause of a cluster of pneumonia cases that is called Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China. After the first SARS-CoV-2 virus-related fatality was announced, the illness quickly spread throughout China and to other continents, causing a pandemic. Since then, numerous studies have been initiated to develop safe and efficient treatments. To prevent viral infection and potential lingering effects, it is important to investigate alternative treatments for COVID-19. Due to its effective bioactive profile and its immunomodulatory roles in biological processes, BC might be considered a promising approach to assist in combating people affected by the SARS-CoV-2 or prevention from the virus. BC has immunomodulatory effects because to its high concentration of bioactive components such as immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, cytokines, and growth factors, etc., which might help control immunological responses, potentially fostering a balanced immune response. Furthermore, its bioactive components have a potential cross-reactivity against SARS-CoV-2, aiding in virus neutralization and its comprehensive food profile also supplies important vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, fostering a healthy immune system. Hence, the possible contributions of BC to the management of COVID-19 were reviewed in this article based on the most recent research on the subject. Additionally, the key BC components that influence immune system modulation were evaluated. These components may serve as potential mediators or therapeutic advantages in COVID-19.
Cell-type-specific molecular characterization of cells from circulation and kidney in IgA nephropathy with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Chen Qilin , Jiang Huimin , Ding Rong , Zhong Jinjie , Li Longfei , Wan Junli , Feng Xiaoqian , Peng Liping , Yang Xia , Chen Han , Wang Anshuo , Jiao Jia , Yang Qin , Chen Xuelan , Li Xiaoqin , Shi Lin , Zhang Gaofu , Wang Mo , Yang Haiping , Li Qiu
Published: October 2023

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a relatively rare and serious presentation of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) (NS-IgAN). Previous research has suggested that the pathogenesis of NS-IgAN may involve circulating immune imbalance and kidney injury; however, this has yet to be fully elucidated. To investigate the cellular and molecular status of NS-IgAN, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and kidney cells from pediatric patients diagnosed with NS-IgAN by renal biopsy. Consistently, the proportion of intermediate monocytes (IMs) in NS-IgAN patients was higher than in healthy controls. Furthermore, flow cytometry confirmed that IMs were significantly increased in pediatric patients with NS. The characteristic expression of VSIG4 and MHC class II molecules and an increase in oxidative phosphorylation may be important features of IMs in NS-IgAN. Notably, we found that the expression level of CCR2 was significantly increased in the CMs, IMs, and NCMs of patients with NS-IgAN. This may be related to kidney injury. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are classified into two subsets of cells: Treg1 (CCR7high, TCF7high, and HLA-DRlow) and Treg2 (CCR7low, TCF7low, and HLA-DRhigh). We found that the levels of Treg2 cells expressed significant levels of CCR4 and GATA3, which may be related to the recovery of kidney injury. The state of NS in patients was closely related to podocyte injury. The expression levels of CCL2, PRSS23, and genes related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition were significantly increased in podocytes from NS-IgAN patients. These represent key features of podocyte injury. Our analysis suggests that PTGDS is significantly downregulated following injury and may represent a new marker for podocytes. In this study, we systematically analyzed molecular events in the circulatory system and kidney tissue of pediatric patients with NS-IgAN, which provides new insights for targeted therapy in the future.
Research advances in mechanism of antiangiogenic therapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors for treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: He Danming , Wang Lu , Xu Jiachen , Zhao Jie , Bai Hua , Wang Jie
Published: October 2023

Immunotherapy has changed the treatment strategy of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in recent years, among which anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies are the most used. However, the majority of patients with NSCLC do not derive benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Vascular abnormalities are a hallmark of most solid tumors and facilitate immune evasion. Thus, combining antiangiogenic therapies might increase the effectiveness of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies. In this paper, the mechanisms of anti-angiogenic agents combined with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies are illustrated, moreover, relevant clinical studies and predictive immunotherapeutic biomarkers are summarized and analyzed, in order to provide more treatment options for NSCLC patients.
Qualitative characterization of residual stress of injection molded polycarbonate goggles based on photoelasticity and digital image processing technique
Authors: Wang Jian , He Jianfeng , Li Hang , Fang Kun
Published: October 2023

Transparent polymeric materials have gained significant popularity as replacements for glass in various industries due to their low cost, lightweight nature, and high processing efficiency. Injection molding is the primary method for producing transparent polymer parts. However, residual stress often poses a challenge, leading to various defects. Traditional approaches utilize photoelasticity and polarizers to determine stress in transparent parts, which costs time and cannot be easily used for online monitoring and real time quality inspection. The digital image processing (DIP), combined with photoelasticity, offers a promising solution for detecting residual stress and assessing product quality in real-time during manufacturing. In this study, we propose a photoelastic digital image processing (PDIP) approach that combines photoelasticity and DIP techniques to identify residual stress and evaluate part quality using a single digital polarized image without the need for a rotation process. By collecting and analyzing the gray values and variations from the photoelastic images through PDIP, we compared and correlated the gray values of the entire image, a specific area on one side lens, a warp line, and a weft line. Additionally, numerical simulations were performed to validate the proposed method. The results demonstrated the feasibility of this instant identification method. The PDIP technique should be applied to a specific area or line within the parts. By obtaining the average gray value, the instantaneous identification of residual stress can be achieved. The determination of the specific area or line can be tailored according to the quality requirements of the parts.
Live cell in situ lysosomal GCase activity correlates to alpha-synuclein levels in human differentiated neurons with LRRK2 and GBA1 mutations
Authors: Labrador-Garrido Adahir , Zhong Siying , Hughes Laura , Keshiya Shikara , Kim Woojin S. , Halliday Glenda M. , Dzamko Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Heterozygous mutations in GBA1, which encodes the lysosomal hydrolase glucocerebrosidase (GCase), are a common risk factor for the neurodegenerative movement disorder Parkinson's disease (PD). Consequently, therapeutic options targeting the GCase enzyme are in development. An important aspect of this development is determining the effect of potential modifying compounds on GCase activity, which can be complicated by the different methods and substrate probes that are commonly employed for this purpose.

Methods

In this study, we employed the GCase substrate probe 5-(pentafluorobenzoylamino)fluorescein di-D-glucopyranoside (PFB-FDGlu) in combination with live cell imaging to measure GCase activity in situ in the lysosome.

Results

The live cell assay was validated using the GCase inhibitor conduritol-B-epoxide and with GBA1 knockout neural cells and was then used to assess GCase activity in iPSC differentiated into neural stem cells and neurons that were obtained from idiopathic PD patients and PD patients with the LRRK2 G2019S and GBA N370S mutations, as well as controls (n = 4 per group). Heterogeneity in GCase activity was observed across all groups. However, a significant inverse correlation between GCase activity and levels of alpha-synuclein protein was observed.

Discussion

The live cell imaging assay for GCase activity could be useful for further understanding the role of GCase in PD and screening potential modifying compounds in differentiated human cell models.
Optimizing the first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Cherri Sara , Oneda Ester , Zanotti Laura , Zaniboni Alberto
Published: October 2023

Colorectal cancer represents an important oncological challenge both for its incidence, which makes it an important health problem, and for its biological complexity, which has made clinical results very difficult in terms of outcome for this category of patients. To date these diseases should not be treated as a single entity but it is necessary to distinguish colorectal cancers based on characteristics that nowadays are essential to have greater therapeutic benefits. These include the sideness of the disease, the state of microsatellites, the presence of prognostic and predictive mutations of response to treatments currently available in clinical practice, which are associated with new therapeutic targets. The greatest challenge in the future will be to circumvent the resistance mechanisms that make this disease very difficult to treat with good long-term results by studying effective combination treatments with a good toxicity profile. Once such combinations or targeted treatments are consolidated, it will be desirable to shift the best therapies to the first line treatment to make them immediately accessible to the patient. It will also be essential to refine the selection of patients who can benefit from these treatments.
Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment improves multiple neuropsychiatric outcomes in patients with pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome
Authors: Eremija Jelena , Patel Sanjay , Rice Sydney , Daines Michael
Published: October 2023

Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is defined by acute onset of diverse neuropsychiatric manifestations, presumably in the setting of underlying immune dysfunction. We used standardized neuropsychological testing to assess how intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) impact neurological and cognitive functions in PANS patients by comparing pretreatment with post-treatment scores. A 5-year retrospective study was undertaken in Children's Postinfectious Autoimmune Encephalopathy Center at University of Arizona. We identified 12 children diagnosed with PANS and treated with immunomodulatory IVIG doses, who also completed neuropsychological testing before and after treatment. We tracked multiple patient characteristics, type/timeline of testing, and number of IVIG courses. Score change of 1 standard deviation in any tested domain/subdomain was considered improvement. We further reviewed records for laboratory signs of triggering infection and immune dysfunction. Improvement occurred in 11/12 patients, in one or multiple domains/subdomains, independently of time between disease onset and IVIG initiation (0–7 years). Participants received 1–7 IVIG courses. Improvement was primarily seen in memory (58%), sensory-motor (37%) and visual-motor integration (30%). In 5/12 patients we detected hypogammaglobulinemia requiring ongoing IVIG replacement, one patient had isolated low IgA. Only one patient had to discontinue IVIG therapy due to severe adverse effects. Standardized neuropsychological testing represents an important tool to objectively measure improvement in PANS patients. IVIG was tolerated well and showed efficacy in the vast majority of participants, independently from timelapse since disease onset, emphasizing impact of immunomodulation in PANS. Significant presence of baseline hypogammaglobulinemia in children with PANS emphasizes the presumed role of immune dysfunction in disease pathogenesis.