bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strabismus Screening Using Eyetracker Combined with Machine Learning
Authors: Son Sun Myung , Kim Ju Hyeon , Moon Sunghyuk
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of an automated screening program that diagnoses horizontal strabismus using machine learning based on ocular deviation data captured by the wearable eyetracker, Tobii pro glasses 2 (TPG2).Methods: The TPG2 which locates the pupil center to measure ocular movement was used. In normal adults wearing TPG2, horizontal ocular deviation was induced by covering the left eye and applying prisms of varying strengths (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 PD base-in and out) to the right eye. TPG2 automatically recorded ocular deviation before and after prism induction generating 28 types of ocular deviation sets. From each set, 20 X-axis values before and after ocular deviation were randomly extracted using an oversampling technique creating a total of 61,600 ocular deviation sets. For training, 56,000 sets were used and 5,600 were evaluated for sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC).Results: Eleven normal adults (5 males) participated with a mean age of 34.8 ± 7.37 years. Based on an 8 PD threshold, deviations of 8 PD or less demonstrated a sensitivity of 1.0, a specificity of 0.95, and an AUC of 0.97. When categorized into three groups based on 8 PD and 20 PD thresholds, the results were: sensitivity of 0.90 and specificity of 0.95 for ≤ 8 PD; sensitivity of 0.60 and specificity of 1.00 for 8-20 PD; sensitivity of 1.00 and specificity of 0.88 for > 20 PD.Conclusions: The machine learning program developed using induced ocular deviations measured with prisms and TPG2 shows promise for use in future strabismus screening tests.
The Role of Language in the Media During the 1994 Rwandan Genocide
Authors: Jorgensen Carlyn
Published: October 2024

In 1994, around 800,000 people were killed in 100 days of genocide in Rwanda. The primary targets of the genocide were the minority Tutsi, but many moderate Hutus were killed as well. In order to facilitate mass participation in the genocide, the ruling elite created and promoted media tools to disseminate anti-Tutsi propaganda and convince ordinary Rwandans to take part in the killings. The media instruments used included the RTLM radio station and newspapers such as Kangura. Using excerpts from radio broadcasts, as well as scholarly works by journalists, broadcasters, and media experts, this paper explores the role of the media in the genocide, including the formation of the media outlets and the various types of language used in the media, (such as high context and low context language), in addition to explaining how this language was used to promote genocide, and making recommendations for the prevention of the use of hate media in future conflicts.
FEATURES OF LEGAL SUPPORT FOR THE ACTIVITIES OF INSTITUTIONS OF THE PENAL SYSTEM OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
Authors: Shabanov Vyacheslav , Verenchikov Igor , Krasikov Vladimir
Published: October 2024

The article examines the problems of legal regulation of the activities of the institution of the penal system in the event of emergency situations of an anthropogenic, technological and natural nature affecting the process of execution of punishment. Topical proposals have been formulated to improve Article 76 of the Penal Code of the Republic of Belarus, which regulates relations arising from the introduction of a special status regime in a correctional institution.382
“Emun Berangkat”: Exploring Teamwork in Organizations through Local Wisdom Narratives
Authors: Abidah Abidah , Harun Makmur , Fitrah Ramdansyah , Lukmannulhaqim Lukmannulhaqim
Published: October 2024

This paper is a response to the limitations of previous studies regarding teamwork and its relationship with effectiveness in the workplace, communication in teamwork, and the role of leadership in teamwork. This paper will find local wisdom narratives regarding teamwork principles so that they can guide actions when working in teams. The research method used was qualitative with an ethnographic approach, conducting interviews with 12 people using a purposive sampling technique, who were selected based on expertise such as cultural figures, Gayo traditional councils, academics, community and religious leaders, education practitioners, and managers. Ethnographic data analysis emphasizes understanding the cultural context so that it can be seen how everything is interconnected and meaningful. Data were analyzed through three stages, namely data restatement, data description, and data interpretation, and ended with a conclusion. The results of the research show that the principles of teamwork are based on local Gayo wisdom, namely the importance of having a vision, being well organized, making decisions through consensus, ethics, mutual welfare, altruism, common goals, coherence, values, meaningful, proportional, job assignment and specialization, monism or non-overlapping, integrity, consolidation, synergy, esprit de corps, solidarity, cohesion, loyalty, effective leadership, interdependence, interconnectedness, mutual trust, mutual development, collaboration, mutual benefit, normative, optimistic, firm, empathetic, harmonious, full of affection, mutual respect.
Leadership Behaviours and Goals Achievement in Public Senior Secondary Schools
Authors: Saka Ismaeel
Published: October 2024

This study aims to analyze the relationship between leadership behavior and the achievement of educational goals in public high schools in Kwara State, Nigeria. The focus of this research is on the three main elements of leadership behavior, namely the welfare package, the role of supervision, and the communication system, as well as how these elements affect educational outcomes. The research method used is a quantitative approach with a correlational descriptive design. Data were collected through adapted questionnaires and interviews with 368 teachers in various public high schools across 16 local government areas in Kwara State. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive and inferential statistics with Pearson correlation at a significance level of 0.05. The results of the study show that there is a significant relationship between welfare packages, supervisory roles, and communication systems and the achievement of educational goals. An adequate welfare package improves teacher motivation and performance, an effective supervisory role contributes to the quality of teaching, and a good communication system ensures better coordination in achieving school goals. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of holistic integration of these elements in leadership strategies to create a conducive learning environment and achieve optimal educational outcomes. This research also opens up space for further research that considers local contexts, demographic variations, and more diverse research methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding.
Building Resilient Campuses: Harnessing Self-Efficacy to Tackle Human Resources Management Obstacles
Authors: Khuzaini Khuzaini
Published: October 2024

This study is based on the importance of effective human resource management in achieving the goals of higher education institutions, including producing quality graduates, improving academic reputation, and contributing to community development through self-efficacy. This study aims to analyze the role of self-efficacy in improving the performance and productivity of lecturers in higher education environments. This study uses a qualitative case study approach, with data collection techniques in the form of in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings show that lecturers and staff with high self-efficacy tend to be more confident in carrying out academic and administrative tasks, and are better able to adopt new technologies in the teaching and research process. These findings also indicate that high self-efficacy contributes to more appropriate and efficient decision making, reducing errors, and increasing the effectiveness of human resource management. The results of this study are expected to provide practical insights for higher education institutions to improve lecturer self-efficacy through appropriate training and management support, so that they can achieve better education, research, and service goals.
Suzanne: Fragments of Memories
Authors: Tholozan-Warluzel Michèle
Published: October 2024

Little has been written about Suzanne Beckett, née Suzanne Déchevaux-Dumesnil (1900–1989). In biographies of Samuel Beckett, and in the even more numerous memoirs and commentaries discussing Beckett’s life, Suzanne disappears quickly – sometimes as soon as she is evoked – and she has rarely been acknowledged as someone who led a rich and interesting life in her own right. Her maiden name, Déchevaux-Dumesnil, has been widely and persistently misspelt as ‘Deschevaux-Dumesnil’ or ‘Déschevaux-Dumesnil’, although it appears just above Beckett’s own name on their tombstone at the Montparnasse Cemetery – a tombstone visited by so many, and photographed so often. The most caricatural portrayals render her as someone who complains when he receives the Nobel Prize, squanders his money and hinders his aspiration to have a good time. Overall, based on some accounts, it can be difficult to understand how a writer like Beckett would have wanted to spend his life with her and why their relationship lasted over fifty years. This biographical essay written by Michèle Tholozan-Warluzel, Suzanne’s great-niece, and translated by Emilie Morin, gives us a fuller view of this remarkable person. Suzanne, Michèle Tholozan-Warluzel tells us, had no time for sentimentality; she inhabited the here and now; she believed that women should be liberated from the weight of conventions; she held the institution of marriage in profound contempt; she felt passionately about the preservation of human and animal life; she frequented concert halls, museums and theatres assiduously throughout her life and loved Paris deeply. She was much loved by her family and friends. This biographical essay brings to life a strikingly modern woman, who seems in some ways better suited to our time than hers.
Gambaran Pengetahuan Dan Sikap Siswi Mts Ddi Lapeo Terhadap Anemia
Authors: Sari Diesna , Abdullah Anisa Dwirizky , Mubarak )Muhammad Hosni , Rahmayani Dewi , Irfan
Published: October 2024

Anemia adalah masalah kesehatan masyarakat yang tersebar luas dan umum yang didefinisikan dengan penurunan jumlah sel darah merah dalam sirkulasi atau tingkat hemoglobin di bawah normal. Remaja putri merupakan salah satu kelompok yang rawan menderita anemia dengan prevalensi risiko anemia sepuluh kali lebih besar dibandingkan remaja putra. Tujuan kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah mengetahui gambaran pengetahuan dan sikap remaja putri tentang anemia di MTs DDI Lapeo Kecamatan Campalagian Kabupaten Polewali Mandar disertai dengan pembagian tablet tambah darah. Metode yang digunakan adalah penyuluhan dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 40. Media yang digunakan adalah kuesioner, leaflet serta Tablet Tambah Darah. Hasil kegiatan ini menunjukkan bahwa siswi yang memiliki pengetahuan kategori baik yaitu 10%, siswi yang memiliki pengetahuan kategori cukup yaitu 50% dan siswi yang memiliki pengetahuan kategori kurang baik yaitu 40% dan hasil yang diperoleh berdasarkan sikap siswi yang memiliki sikap kategori baik yaitu 92,5%, siswi yang memiliki sikap kategori cukup yaitu 5% dan siswi yang memiliki sikap kategori kurang baik yaitu 2,5%. Melalui kegitan ini, diharapkan adanya kerjasama dengan pihak sekolah untuk aktif dalam memberikan penyuluhan mengenai anemia gizi dan tindakan pencegahannya.
Konseling Gizi Peningkatan Pengetahuan Dan Sikap Ibu Dalam Pemberian Makanan Balita Stunting
Authors: Liansafitri Dita , Faisal Elvyrah , Nurjaya
Published: October 2024

Konseling Gizi merupakan salah satu cara memperbaiki sikap ibu balita, meliputi pengetahuan, dan sikap ibu sehingga asupan gizi dapat diperbaiki. Tujuan kegiatan ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh Konseling Gizi Terhadap Pengetahuan, Sikap Ibu Dalam Pemberian Makanan Anak Stunting usia 6-23 bulan di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Biromaru Kabupaten Sigi. Hasil kegiatan  menunjukkan bahwa konseling gizi meningkatkan perubahan pada pengetahuan sebelum 90% dan pengetahuan sesudah diberi perlakuan menjadi 100%. Sikap responden sebelum 40%, setelah diberikan perlakuan meningkat 90%, pada kelompok kontrol tidak mengalami peningkatan pada pengetahuan dan sikap. Nilai pengetahuan pada kelompok perlakuan konseling yaitu p=0,000 atau p<0,05 yang artinya ada pengaruh pengetahuan ibu terhadap pemberian makan anak, pada sikap ada perbedaan rata-rata sebelum diberi perlakuan dan sesudah diberi perlakuan. Konseling memberikan pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap pengetahuan gizi dan sikap ibu pada kelompok perlakuan pemberian makanan anak balita stunting 6-23 bulan Diwilayah Kerja Puskesmas Biromaru Desa Lolu Kab.Sigi Provinsi Sulawesi Tengah. Namun tidak memberikan pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap kelompok kontrol. Saran penelitian ini sebaiknya dilakukan penelitian lanjutan dalam hal konseling gizi di Desa Lolu.
Myocardial infarction in rats was alleviated by MSCs derived from the maternal segment of the human umbilical cord
Authors: Sun Shuifen , Wang Linping , Tang Qisheng , Yi Jialian , Yu Xin , Cao Yu , Jiang Lihong , Liu Jie
Published: October 2024

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are safe and effective in treating myocardial infarction (MI) and have broad application prospects. However, the heterogeneity of MSCs may affect their therapeutic effect on the disease. We recently found that MSCs derived from different segments of the same umbilical cord (UC) showed significant difference in the expression of genes that are related to heart development and injury repair. We therefore hypothesized that those MSCs with high expression of above genes are more effective to treat MI and tested it in this study.

Methods

MSCs were isolated from 3 cm-long segments of the maternal, middle and fetal segments of the UC (maternal-MSCs, middle-MSCs and fetal-MSCs, respectively). RNA-seq was used to analyze and compare the transcriptomes. We verified the effects of MSCs on oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis in vitro. In vivo, a rat MI model was established by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery, and MSCs were injected into the myocardium surrounding the MI site. The therapeutic effects of MSCs derived from different segments of the UC were evaluated by examining cardiac function, histopathology, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and angiogenesis.

Results

Compared to fetal-MSCs and middle-MSCs, maternal-MSCs exhibited significantly higher expression of genes that are associated with heart development, such as GATA-binding protein 4 (GATA4), and myocardin (MYOCD). Coculture with maternal-MSCs reduced OGD-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In rats with MI, maternal-MSCs significantly restored cardiac contractile function and reduced the infarct size. Mechanistic experiments revealed that maternal-MSCs exerted cardioprotective effects by decreasing cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and promoting angiogenesis.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that maternal segment-derived MSCs were a superior cell source for regenerative repair after MI. Segmental localization of the entire UC when isolating hUCMSCs was necessary to improve the effectiveness of clinical applications.
Extra-cerebral recombination activity of Emx1-Cre and nestin-Cre in the kidney
Authors: Wang Min , Liu Xiaojuan , Fang Yin , Li Qintong
Published: October 2024

Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are frequently diagnosed with comorbidities in other organs, indicating that NDD risk genes may have extra-cerebral functions. The engineered mouse models are pivotal in understanding the functions of candidate NDD genes. Here, we report that Emx1-Cre and nestin-Cre mouse strains, the popular tools to study brain development, also exhibit recombination activity in the kidney. We find that both Emx1-Cre and nestin-Cre can drive recombination in epithelial cells lining proximal and distal convoluted tubules of the nephron. Additionally, nestin-Cre drives recombination in the glomerulus of the nephron. Furthermore, we use Emx1-Cre and nestin-Cre to knock out Larp7, a gene linked to a human NDD called Alazami syndrome. We find that Larp7 knockout using nestin-Cre, but not Emx1-Cre, results in elevated blood urea nitrogen. This result suggests a compromised kidney function, reminiscent of recently revealed renal anomalies in Alazami syndrome patients. Many genes have been knocked out using Emx1-Cre and nestin-Cre to study their roles during embryonic neurogenesis. It will be of great interest to reinvestigate whether the renal development and function is affected in these existing mouse models.
Dynamics of optical properties of sequentially diluted lucigenin aqueous solutions according to luminescence data
Authors: Tytik Dmitrii L. , Kuzmin Viktor I. , Souvorova Olga V. , Revina Alexandra A.
Published: October 2024

The article discusses optical properties (luminescence) of diluted (24 dilution factor) lucigenin (Lc) aqueous solutions. Six series of Lc aqueous solutions, with 50 samples in each series, were studied. The series were diluted on different days within random schedules, following a unified procedure: the first sample in all the series was the Lc (CLc = 8.2 × 10−7 mol/L) stock solution, while the rest of the samples were obtained by successive dilution with the ratio of 24. For the first three samples, the Lc luminescence intensity decrease appropriately complied with the exponential function model (the dilution ratio: none for the stock solution, for the second and the third, 24 and 24 × 24 = 242, respectively). Starting from the fourth sample for statistical processing of luminescence data, the seven largest values were selected from the built rank distribution of emission intensity values. This method helps eliminate the influence of “random large bounces” when calculating the correlation coefficient. Up to the 50th studied sample, a challenging linear gradual decrease in the intensity of recorded photometric values was noted (correlation coefficients for all series being close to −0.9). Similar analysis of six reference series of pure water “dilution” samples did not exhibit any correlation between the highest emission values in the studied wavelength range (specific for Lc bandwidth, 480–505 nm) and the sample’s dilution number. It can be assumed that photometric values, recorded in the series of Lc sequentially diluted aqueous solutions after substance (Lc) elimination (theoretically expected after the 13th sample within the used experimental setup), could be attributed to the gradual destruction of long-lived aqueous structures formed in the process of hydration of Lc molecules during its dissolution.
The anthropomorphic pursuit of AI-generated journalistic texts: limits to expressing subjectivity
Authors: González-Arias Cristian , Chatzikoumi Eirini , López-García Xosé
Published: October 2024

Many newsrooms around the world are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to generate journalistic content. Often, these machine-generated texts are distributed without being clearly identified as synthetic or hybrid. Since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, the tool’s extraordinary ability to mimic human language has been widely celebrated. Given that subjectivity is an integral part of human language, this study examines how different texts generated using AI tools are imbued with subjective features in order to anthropomorphize their linguistic content. Our aim is to gain insight into the ways in which these texts express subjectivity in order to appear anthropomorphic, as well as the limits of this expression and its implications for communication. To this end, a corpus of AI-generated journalistic texts published in various media, as well as texts created using AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini, is analysed to assess these tools’ capabilities. Ten criteria are used to characterize the expression of subjectivity in journalistic discourse on the surface of texts and in terms of situational appropriateness. The results show that AI tools can incorporate subjective markers on the text surface, but have important limitations when it comes to situational appropriateness, making it difficult to imitate certain features of journalistic writing. The paper also discusses the implications of asymmetrical audience interaction with machines that simulate human characteristics, and the varying degrees of opacity and transparency with which AI is used in newsrooms.
Identifying HIF1A and HGF as two hub genes in aortic dissection and function analysis by integrating RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Li Hai-Bing , Liu Chang , Mao Xiang-Di , Yuan Shu-Zheng , Li Li , Cong Xin
Published: October 2024

Objective

Aortic dissection (AD) is a severe aortic disease with high mortality, and its pathogenesis remains elusive. To explore the regulatory mechanisms of AD, we integrated public RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets to screen the hub genes of AD and further analyzed their functions, which may provide references to the diagnosis and treatment of AD.

Methods

Four AD-related datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential expression analysis were applied to identify overlapping genes in dataset GSE153434. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed based on overlapping genes. Five methods (closeness, degree, EPC, MCC, and MNN) were used to pick hub genes. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of the hub genes in extra datasets GSE98770 and GSE52093. scRNA-seq dataset GSE213740 was used to explore the expression and function of the hub genes at the single-cell level. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to verify the expression of hub genes in beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN)-induced mouse thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) model.

Results

A total of 71 overlapping genes were screened by intersecting the significant genes in the pink module and the differentially expressed genes. A PPI network with 45 nodes and 74 edges was generated, and five top hub genes (HIF1A, HGF, HMOX1, ITGA5, and ITGB3) were identified. All the hub genes had area under the curve values above 0.55. scRNA-seq data analysis showed that HIF1A was significantly upregulated in macrophages and HGF was significantly upregulated in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the ascending aortas in AD patients. HIF1A may transcriptionally regulate multiple downstream target genes involving inflammation (TLR2, ALOX5AP, and MIF), glycolysis (ENO1, LDHA, and GAPDH), tissue remodeling (PLAU), and angiogenesis (SERPIN and VEGFA). HGF may participate in the signaling among SMCs, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells through binding to different receptors (MET, EGFR, IGF1R, and KDR). The mRNA expression of Hif1a, Hgf, and their target genes, including Alox5ap, Serpine1, Tlr2, Plau, Egfr, and Igf1r, was significantly upregulated in aortic tissues of BAPN-treated mice.

Conclusion

By integrating RNA-seq and scRNA-seq data, we identified HIF1A and HGF as two hub genes with good diagnostic efficiency for AD. HIF1A in macrophages may promote AD formation by promoting inflammation, glycolysis, tissue remodeling, and angiogenesis, and HGF may mediate signaling among SMCs, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells in the development of AD.
Towards FAIRification of learning resources and catalogues—lessons learnt from research communities
Authors: Provost Lottie , Bezuidenhout Louise , Venkataraman Shanmugasundaram , van der Lek Iulianna , van Gelder Celia , Kuchma Iryna , Leenarts Ellen , Azevedo Flavio , Brvar Irena Vipavc , Paladin Lisanna , Clare Helen , Braukmann Ricarda
Published: October 2024

Since the introduction of the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) data principles in 2016, discussions have evolved beyond the original focus on research data to include learning resources. In 2020, a set of simple rules to FAIRify learning resources was proposed, building on existing expertise within the training community. Disciplinary communities have played an important role in advancing FAIR principles for learning resources, although they have approached FAIRification activities in different ways. These communities range from volunteer-led to funded and independent organisations, however commonly include activities such as organising training and capacity building, and coordinated discussions on disciplinary-focused FAIR best practises and standards. Eight disciplinary community case studies are presented and analysed in this paper to examine the motivations, challenges and opportunities towards FAIRification of learning resources, reflecting on how community structure leads to differing responsibilities. The case studies are based on reflections formulated in 2022, the aim is to pull together the experiences of these different communities, focusing on the processes and challenges they encountered, in order to structure this knowledge across different learning platforms, draw attention to the question of sustainability for learning resources and anticipate improvements in future policies and governance.
COVID-19 online learning challenges: Kazakhstan secondary schools case study
Authors: Nurgaliyeva Saniya , Bolatov Aidos , Abildina Saltanat , Zeinolla Saule , Kurbonova Bakhtikhon , Kyyakbayeva Ulbossyn
Published: October 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid transition to online learning (OL) globally, posing significant challenges for educational systems. This study investigates the experiences of secondary school students in Kazakhstan, highlighting the adaptation processes, educational outcomes, and challenges faced during this shift.

Methods

Data were collected through an online survey administered to 3,670 secondary school students across Kazakhstan, selected through convenience sampling. The survey comprised 21 questions using a combination of Likert-type scales and multiple-choice questions to capture students’ demographic details, satisfaction levels, perceived difficulties, and academic performance changes during OL. Data validation was ensured by cross-referencing responses, descriptive statistics, T-tests, ANOVA, correlation analysis, and regression were employed to analyze the data and identify factors influencing students’ attitudes toward OL and the associated challenges.

Results

The results revealed that satisfaction with OL was positively correlated with satisfaction with education in general and negatively correlated with the level of difficulty in OL (p < 0.001). Rural students, while more satisfied with learning overall (p < 0.001), were less satisfied with OL compared to their urban peers, and also reported greater challenges (p < 0.05). A significant portion of respondents (44.2%) disagreed that OL was an effective learning method, and 43.7% expressed a need for face-to-face interaction with teachers, especially female and rural students (p < 0.001). Most students (40.8%) reported worse learning outcomes with OL, particularly urban students (p < 0.001), and 32.0% noted a decrease in motivation. Regression analysis identified older students and those who experienced greater difficulty with OL as less likely to prefer it, while those who showed improvement in academic performance and motivation were more favorable toward OL. These findings highlight the complexity of educational preferences and the disparities between urban and rural students during the pandemic.

Conclusion

While the findings may be applicable to other countries with similar educational systems, cultural, economic, and technological differences should be considered when generalizing the results. The insights gained from this study will be valuable for policymakers, educators, and academic institutions to improve the resilience and effectiveness of educational practices in the face of such challenges.
Glycemic indicators and mental health symptoms: results from the greater Beirut area cardiovascular cohort
Authors: Chamseddine Zahraa Mohammad , Nasrallah Mona P. , Tamim Hani , Nasreddine Lara , Elbejjani Martine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Depression and anxiety present high and complex comorbidity with diabetes. One proposed explanation is that glycemic dysregulations and diabetes-related processes can influence mental health risk. We examined the associations of concurrent and prior glycemic indicators (Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels) with depression and anxiety symptoms in a community-based sample of middle-aged Lebanese adults.

Methods

Data come from the Greater Beirut Area Cardiovascular Cohort (GBACC), with baseline and 5-year assessments of sociodemographic, lifestyle, and biological factors (n=198). Depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-7) symptoms were assessed at follow-up. We investigated associations between glycemic indicators and continuous mental health scores using first linear and then piecewise regression models.

Results

Adjusted piecewise regression models showed different associations with mental outcomes across glycemic indicators in the diabetic/clinical compared to the non-diabetic range: Among participants with <126 mg/dl baseline FBG, higher FBG levels in this range were significantly associated with lower depressive (beta=-0.12, 95%CI= [-0.207, -0.032]) and anxiety symptoms (beta=-0.099, 95%CI= [-0.186, -0.012]). In contrast, among participants with baseline FBG levels ≥126 mg/dl, higher FBG levels were significantly associated with higher anxiety symptoms (beta=0.055; 95%CI= 0.008, 0.102). Higher baseline FBG levels in the ≥126 mg/dl range showed a not statistically significant trend for higher depressive symptoms. Although not significant, baseline HbA1c levels showed similar patterns with negative associations with mental health symptoms in the <6.5% range.

Discussion

Results show that FBG levels were associated with poorer mental health symptoms only in the clinical/diabetic range, and not in the normal range. Associations were observed with baseline glycemic indicators, highlighting potentially early and prolonged associations with mental health. Findings highlight the importance of clinical changes in glycemic indicators for mental health and motivate further research into the transition toward adverse associations between diabetes and mental health.
Contribution of cervical incompetence to occurrence of second trimester abortion in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome during the frozen embryo transfer cycle
Authors: Cheng Tingting , Shi Hao , Bu Zhiqin , Yu Yiping , Song Wenyan , Haixia Jin , Yao Guidong
Published: October 2024

Background

Second-trimester abortion is a critical issue in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treated with assisted reproductive technology (ART), cervical incompetence (CI) may play a role. Although previous studies have revealed an association between PCOS and CI in women undergoing ART with fresh embryo transfer, the associated risk factors in frozen embryo transfer cycles are still unknown. The primary objective of this study is to examine the impact of CI on the occurrence of second-trimester abortion in women with PCOS undergoing frozen embryo transfer.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent frozen-thawed embryo transfer and experienced second-trimester abortion between January 2012 and January 2020 from the Reproductive Medical Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. Logit-transformed propensity score matching (PSM) was used to assess covariates. Patients were classified into the PCOS and non-PCOS groups. The PCOS group was further divided into two subgroups: the CI group and non-CI group.

Results

After case matching with PSM, 278 patients were included: 139 each in the PCOS group and non-PCOS groups. More miscarriages were attributed to CI in the PCOS group compared with the control group (20.14% vs. 10.07%). Subsequently, in the PCOS group, CI and non-CI subgroup analyses revealed a higher transfer cleavage-stage embryo incidence in the CI group than in the blastocysts group (p=0.001). Moreover, the between-group miscarriage-related gestational age varied significantly (p=0.039). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that cleavage embryo transfer (p= 0.047) was associated with increased CI risk in the PCOS group, besides, increasing the number of transferred embryos did not impact the occurrence of CI in patients with PCOS.

Conclusion

CI independently predicted a higher risk of second-trimester abortion in patients with PCOS during the frozen embryo transfer cycle. What’s more, increasing the number of transferred embryos did not affect the incidence of CI in the PCOS group.
Impact of thyroid hormones on predicting the occurrence of persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome in patients with sepsis
Authors: Zhang Ling , Tan Ruoming , Pan Tingting , Qu Hongping
Published: October 2024

Background

The prevalence of persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome (PICS) has an upward trend in sepsis patients and can be associated with poor outcomes. Thyroid hormones are expected to be correlated with inflammation, immunity, and metabolism. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of thyroid hormones on the occurrence of PICS and then further explore the optimal level of them in sepsis.

Methods

This retrospective observational study used the online database Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to determine correlations between thyroid hormone levels and PICS. A combination of independent PICS development factors was established with accuracy assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC).

Results

Patients were divided into PICS (n=205) and non-PICS (n=671) groups. The third quartiles of triiodothyronine (T3) (60-80ng/dl) and thyroxine (T4) (5.5-6.8ug/dl) had the lowest PICS incidence and the adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 0.33 (T3, p=0.009) and 0.39 (T4, p=0.006), respectively, compared with the first quartiles of T3 and T4. For patients with a pre-existing T3 deficiency, severe deficiency (T3 <60ng/dl) and a high Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score were significantly related to PICS incidence. The AUC for these combined parameters in predicting PICS occurrence was 0.748 (all patients) and 0.861 (patients without thyroid disease).

Conclusions

A mild T3 deficiency (60-80ng/dl) was significantly associated with the lowest risk-adjusted PICS occurrence in patients with sepsis. A severe T3 deficiency (<60ng/dl) and a high SOFA score were independent risk factors for PICS occurrence.
Addressing challenges for operating electrochemical solar fuels technologies under variable and diurnal conditions
Authors: Yap Kyra M. K. , Lee Sol A. , Kistler Tobias A. , Collins Darci K. , Warren Emily L. , Atwater Harry A. , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Xiang Chengxiang , Nielander Adam C.
Published: October 2024

The outdoor operation of electrochemical solar fuels devices must contend with challenges presented by the cycles of solar irradiance, temperature, and other meteorological factors. Herein, we discuss challenges associated with these fluctuations presented over three timescales, including the effects of diurnal cycling over the course of many days, a single diurnal cycle over the course of hours, and meteorological phenomena that cause fluctuations on the order of seconds to minutes. We also highlight both reaction-independent and reaction-specific effects of variable conditions for the hydrogen evolution reaction and CO2 reduction reaction. We identify key areas of research for advancing the outdoor operation of solar fuels technology and highlight the need for metrics and benchmarks to enable the comparison of diurnal studies across systems and geographical locations.
Hydrochemical variation characteristics and driving factors of surface water in arid Areas—a case study of Beichuan River in Northwest China
Authors: Jinbing Xing , Long Wang , Jie Zhao , Tianlun Zhai
Published: October 2024

Examining the chemical properties of river water and the controlling factors is crucial for devising efficacious strategies in water resources management and ecological conservation. This study investigates the hydrochemical characteristics and driving factors of the Beichuan River in the arid region of Northwest China. Surface water samples were collected during wet and dry seasons, and analyzed using hydrochemical diagrams, mathematical statistics, and principal component analysis (PCA). The results show that the pH value of Beichuan River is generally weakly alkaline, the main hydrochemical types are HCO3-Ca, and the average TDS are 224 mg/L and 236 mg/L respectively, which are higher than the world average level (115 mg/L). The seasonal variation of hydrochemical components is mainly controlled by rainfall, showing that the concentrations of Na+, Cl− and NO3− in the wet season are higher than those in the dry season, while the concentrations of other chemical components show an opposite trend, while the spatial variation is mainly controlled by human activities, and the concentrations of hydrochemical components show a gradual increasing trend from upstream to downstream, especially Na+, Mg2+, Cl− and NO3−. Rock weathering is the key natural factor controlling the Hydrochemical Composition of Beichuan River. Na+ and Cl− are mainly from the dissolution of silicate, Ca2+ and Mg2+ are mainly from the weathering of carbonate rocks and silicate, and SO42- is mainly from the dissolution of evaporite. It is noted that human activities, especially domestic sewage and agricultural runoff, contribute significantly to NO3− in the water body. PCA identified rock weathering and agricultural runoff as major wet-season factors, while domestic sewage predominantly affects the dry season. This study can provide a scientific basis for the rational development of water resources and ecological environment protection in arid areas.
Bta-miR-665 improves bovine blastocyst development through its influence on microtubule dynamics and apoptosis
Authors: Guan Xuefeng , Fan Yuan , Six Rani , Benedetti Camilla , Raes Annelies , Fernandez Montoro Andrea , Cui Xiaole , Azari Dolatabad Nima , Van Soom Ann , Pavani Krishna Chaitanya , Peelman Luc
Published: October 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain microRNAs (miRNAs), which are important regulators of embryonic development. Nevertheless, little is known about the precise molecular processes controlling blastocyst development and quality. In a previous study, we identified bta-miR-665 as one of the miRNAs more abundantly present in extracellular vesicles of embryo-conditioned culture media of blastocysts compared to degenerate ones. Here, we investigated the effect and regulatory roles of bta-miR-665 in blastocyst development by supplementation of bta-miR-665 mimics or inhibitors to the culture media. Supplementation of bta-miR-665 mimics improved cleavage and blastocyst rate (P < 0.01), and blastocyst quality as indicated by increased inner cell mass rates and reduced apoptotic cell ratios (P < 0.01). Furthermore, supplementation of bta-miR-665 inhibitors had the opposite effect on these phenotypes. Low input transcriptome analysis and RT-qPCR revealed that bta-miR-665 acts on genes linked to microtubule formation and apoptosis/cell proliferation. These insights not only elucidate the important role of bta-miR-665 in embryo development, but also underscore its potential in improving reproductive efficiency in bovine embryo culture.
epiArt: a graphical HLA eplet amino acid repertoire translation reveals the need for an epitope driven revision of allele group nomenclature
Authors: Doxiadis Ilias , Lehmann Claudia , Lachmann Nils , Loeffler-Wirth Henry
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The immune response after transplantation depends on recipient/donor HLA allele mismatches. To enhance our understanding of the relations of HLA alleles in terms of amino-acid polymorphisms and shared epitopes, we assessed pairwise sequence difference between HLA-alleles.

Methods

We translated amino-acid sequences of confirmed eplets into an atlas of HLA class I and II antigens, followed by visualization of the pairwise allele distances by means of antigen-specific disparity graphs in differential amino-acid space. We obtained an overview of relationships of all alleles of an antigen, corresponding similarity/dissimilarity structures, outliers, alleles with similarity to different antigen groups. Additionally, we calculated prevalence of the amino-acids for each polymorphic sequence position and visualized them in amino-acid motif plots of all alleles belonging to an antigen.

Results

Our visualizations show strongly varying intra-group heterogeneity of HLA class I and II alleles, as well as shared inter-group and inter-locus eplets and epitopes, indicating a benefit of epitope-based transplant matching: Single allele recipient/donor mismatches potentially refer to identical eplets, or to a set of multiple mismatched eplets.

Discussion

This data reveals inconsistencies in the HLA group nomenclature and consequently adds a new level of quality to allocation, motivating the definition of tolerable or taboo mismatches.
Case report: Successful PGT-M based on the identification of a spliceogenic variant in the RPGRIP1L gene through Minigene assay
Authors: Xu Huiling , Pu Jiajie , Wu Zhengzhong , Guo Shuhan , Li Xuemei
Published: October 2024

With the development of high-throughput sequencing, the genetic etiology of many diseases has been revealed. However, this has also led to the categorization of many variants as variants of uncertain significance (VUSs), presenting a major challenge in genetic counseling. A couple with a history of adverse pregnancies sought assisted reproductive technology. Trio-WES revealed that they individually carried the following variants in the RPGRIP1L gene: a c.1581G>A (p.Gln527=) (VUS) and a c.135-11A>G (likely pathogenic variant, LP). Further investigation using the Minigene assay showed that the variant c.1581G>A (p.Gln527=) disrupts the normal splicing pattern of the mRNA, leading to two abnormal splicing modes: 1) retention of 26 bp in intron 13; 2) exon 13 skipping transcript. Consequently, the VUS was reclassified as likely pathogenic. We then performed preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for the couple, which included direct detection of the RPGRIP1L locus, SNP haplotype analysis, and chromosome copy number detection. Through these precise detection procedures, an unaffected embryo was selected for transfer, and the prenatal genetic diagnosis of the fetus was normal. Our study indicates that the Minigene assay is a valuable tool for splicing functional analysis of variants in vitro. This approach is particularly useful for genetic counseling involving VUS that may affect pre-mRNA splicing, as well as for the subsequent clinical management of the related family.
Comprehensive analysis of lactylation-related gene sets and mitochondrial functions in gastric adenocarcinoma: implications for prognosis and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Yin Xindong , Xing Wenya , Yi Nan , Zhou Yuanzi , Chen Yue , Jiang Zhiwei , Ma Chaoqun , Xia Cunbing
Published: October 2024

Gastric adenocarcinoma (STAD) is characterized by high heterogeneity and aggressiveness, leading to poor prognostic outcomes worldwide. This study explored the prognostic significance of lactylation-related gene sets and mitochondrial functions in STAD by integrating large-scale genomic datasets, including TCGA and several GEO datasets. We utilized Spatial transcriptomics and single-cell RNA sequencing to delineate the tumor microenvironment and assess the heterogeneity of cellular responses within the tumor. Additionally, the study identified distinct molecular subtypes within STAD that correspond with unique survival outcomes and immune profiles, enhancing the molecular classification beyond current paradigms. Prognostic models incorporating these molecular markers demonstrated superior predictive capabilities over existing models across multiple validation datasets. Furthermore, our analysis of immune landscapes revealed that variations in lactylation could influence immune cell infiltration and responsiveness, pointing towards novel avenues for tailored immunotherapy approaches. These comprehensive insights provide a foundation for targeted therapeutic strategies and underscore the potential of metabolic and immune modulation in improving STAD treatment outcomes.
LIN28 upregulation in primary human T cells impaired CAR T antitumoral activity
Authors: Garcia-Rodriguez Patricia , Hidalgo Laura , Rodriguez-Milla Miguel Angel , Somovilla-Crespo Beatriz , Garcia-Castro Javier
Published: October 2024

LIN28, a highly conserved RNA-binding protein that acts as a posttranscriptional modulator, plays a vital role in the regulation of T-cell development, reprogramming, and immune activity in infectious diseases and T-cell-based immunotherapies. LIN28 inhibit the expression of let-7 miRNAs, the most prevalent family of miRNAs in lymphocytes. Recently it has been suggested that let-7 enhances murine anti-tumor immune responses. Here, we investigated the impact of LIN28 upregulation on human T cell functions, focusing on its influence on CAR T cell therapy. LIN28 lentiviral transduction of human T cells led to a stable expression of LIN28 that significantly downregulated the let-7 miRNA family without affecting cell viability or expansion potential. LIN28 overexpression maintained human T cell phenotype markers and functionality but impaired the antitumoral cytotoxicity of NKG2D-CAR T cells both in vitro and in vivo. These findings highlight the intricate relationship between LIN28/let-7 axis and human T cell functionality, including in CAR T cell therapy.