bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health literacy strengths and challenges among residents of a resource-poor village in rural India: Epidemiological and cluster analyses
Authors: Passi Reetu , Kaur Manmeet , Lakshmi P. V. M. , Cheng Christina , Hawkins Melanie , Osborne Richard H.
Published: February 2023

Cluster analysis can complement and extend the information learned through epidemiological analysis. The aim of this study was to determine the relative merits of these two data analysis methods for describing the multidimensional health literacy strengths and challenges in a resource poor rural community in northern India. A cross-sectional survey (N = 510) using the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) was undertaken. Descriptive epidemiology included mean scores and effect sizes among sociodemographic characteristics. Cluster analysis was based on the nine HLQ scales to determine different health literacy profiles within the population. Participants reported highest mean scores for Scale 4. Social support for health (2.88) and Scale 6. Ability to actively engage with healthcare professionals (3.66). Lower scores were reported for Scale 3. Actively managing my health (1.81) and Scale 8. Ability to find good health information (2.65). Younger people (<35 years) had much higher scores than older people (ES >1.0) for social support. Eight clusters were identified. In Cluster A, educated younger men (mean age 27 years) reported higher scores on all scales except one (Scale 1. Feeling understood and supported by a healthcare professional) and were the cluster with the highest number (43%) of new hypertension diagnoses. In contrast, Cluster H also had young participants (mean age 30 years) but with low education (72% illiterate) who scored lowest across all nine scales. While epidemiological analysis provided overall health literacy scores and associations between health literacy and other characteristics, cluster analysis provided nuanced health literacy profiles with the potential to inform development of solutions tailored to the needs of specific population subgroups.
An expression and function analysis of the CXCR4/SDF-1 signalling axis during pituitary gland development
Authors: Gonzalez-Meljem Jose Mario , Ivins Sarah , Andoniadou Cynthia Lilian , Le Tissier Paul , Scambler Peter , Martinez-Barbera Juan Pedro
Published: February 2023

The chemokine SDF-1 (CXCL12) and its receptor CXCR4 control several processes during embryonic development such as the regulation of stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. However, the role of this pathway in the formation of the pituitary gland is not understood. We sought to characterise the expression patterns of CXCR4, SDF-1 and CXCR7 at different stages of pituitary gland development. Our expression profiling revealed that SDF-1 is expressed in progenitor-rich regions of the pituitary anterior lobe, that CXCR4 and CXCR7 have opposite expression domains and that CXCR4 expression is conserved between mice and human embryos. We then assessed the importance of this signalling pathway in the development and function of the murine pituitary gland through conditional deletion of CXCR4 in embryonic pituitary progenitors. Successful and specific ablation of CXCR4 expression in embryonic pituitary progenitors did not lead to observable embryonic nor postnatal defects but allowed the identification of stromal CXCR4+ cells not derived from HESX1+ progenitors. Further analysis of constitutive SDF-1, CXCR7 and CXCR4 mutants of the pathway indicates that CXCR4 expression in HESX1+ cells and their descendants is not essential for normal pituitary development in mice.
Effect of blocking of alpha1-adrenoreceptor isoforms on the noradrenaline-induced changes in contractility of inflamed pig uterus
Authors: Jana Barbara , Całka Jarosław
Published: February 2023

Background

Disturbances in uterine contractility often lead to the origin, development and maintenance of endometritis and metritis, which are a very common and serious pathologies in domestic animals. Here we aimed to investigate the role of α1A-, α1B- and α1D-adrenoreceptors (ARs) in noradrenaline (NA)-induced contractility of inflammatory-changed porcine uterus.

Methods

On Day 3 of the estrous cycle, either Escherichia coli (E. coli) suspension (E. coli group) or saline (SAL group) was injected into uterine horns, or only laparotomy was performed (CON group). Eight days later, infected gilts developed severe acute endometritis.

Results

Compared to the period before NA application, NA reduced the contractile amplitude and frequency in myometrium (MYO) and endometrium (ENDO)/MYO strips from the CON, SAL and E. coli groups. In the last group, the amplitude in MYO and the frequency in ENDO/MYO were lowered versus other groups. After using α1A-ARs antagonist with NA, a greater decrease or occurrence of a drop in the amplitude and frequency in all groups (ENDO/MYO) were found compared to this neurotransmitter action alone. Such results were noted for NA action on the frequency after α1B-ARs blocking in the CON (both kinds of strips) and SAL (ENDO/MYO) groups. In response to α1D-ARs antagonist with NA, a greater decrease or occurrence of a drop in the amplitude was noted in the CON (both kinds of strips) and SAL and E. coli (MYO) groups. Use of these factors caused the similar changes in the frequency in CON and E. coli (MYO) and SAL (ENDO/MYO) groups. In response to NA, α1A,B,D-ARs antagonist led to a greater reduction or appearance of a drop in the amplitude in the CON and SAL (ENDO/MYO) and E. coli (both kinds of strips) as well as in the frequency in the CON and SAL (ENDO/MYO) and E. coli (MYO) groups.

Conclusions

In conclusion, activation of α1A- and α1D-ARs by NA promotes the contractile amplitude and frequency in the inflamed pig uterus; pharmacological modulation of these receptors can be utilized to enhance systolic activity of myometrium.
Pathogenesis and defense mechanism while Beauveria bassiana JEF-410 infects poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae
Authors: Park So Eun , Kim Jong-Cheol , Im Yeram , Kim Jae Su
Published: February 2023

The poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae (Mesostigmata: Dermanyssidae), is a major pest that causes great damage to chicken egg production. In one of our previous studies, the management of red mites using entomopathogenic fungi was evaluated, and the acaricidal fungus Beauveria bassiana JEF-410 was selected for further research. In this study, we tried to elucidate the pathogenesis of B. bassiana JEF-410 and the defense mechanisms of red mites at a transcriptome level. Red mites collected from a chicken farm were treated with B. bassiana JEF-410. When the mortality of infected red mites reached 50%, transcriptome analyses were performed to determine the interaction between B. bassiana JEF-410 and red mites. Uninfected red mites and non-infecting fungus served as controls. In B. bassiana JEF-410, up-regulated gene expression was observed in tryptophan metabolism and secondary metabolite biosynthesis pathways. Genes related to acetyl-CoA synthesis were up-regulated in tryptophan metabolism, suggesting that energy metabolism and stress management were strongly activated. Secondary metabolites associated with fungal up-regulated DEGs were related to the production of substances toxic to insects such as beauvericin and beauveriolide, efflux pump of metabolites, energy production, and resistance to stress. In red mites, physical and immune responses that strengthen the cuticle against fungal infection were highly up-regulated. From these gene expression analyses, we identified essential factors for fungal infection and subsequent defenses of red mites. These results will serve as a strong platform for explaining the interaction between B. bassiana JEF-410 and red mites in the stage of active infection.
Isotope sample preparation of diatoms for paleoenvironmental research
Authors: Swann George E. A. , Snelling Andrea M.
Published: February 2023

Isotopes in diatoms are increasingly used in palaeoenvironmental studies in both lacustrine and marine settings, enabling the reconstruction of a range of variables including temperature, precipitation, salinity, glacial discharge, carbon dynamics and biogeochemical cycling. This protocol details an optimised methodology for extracting diatoms for isotope analysis from sediment samples, using a range of chemical and density separation techniques that minimise sample loss and avoids the need for expensive equipment. Whilst designed for the extraction of diatoms for oxygen, silicon and carbon isotope analysis, additional stages are outlined for the analysis of other isotopes that are of increasing interest to the palaeo community (e.g., boron and zinc). The protocol also includes procedures for assessing sample purity, to ensure that analysed samples produce robust palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. Overall, the method aims to improve the quality of palaeoenvironmental research derived from isotopes in diatoms by maximising sample purity and the efficiency of the extraction process.
Altered choline level in atherosclerotic lesions: Upregulation of choline transporter-like protein 1 in human coronary unstable plaque
Authors: Nakamura Eriko , Maekawa Kazunari , Saito Yoichi , Matsumoto Tomoko , Ogawa Mikako , Komohara Yoshihiro , Asada Yujiro , Yamashita Atsushi
Published: February 2023

Inflammatory activity and hypoxia in atherosclerotic plaques are associated with plaque instability and thrombotic complications. Recent studies show that vascular cell metabolism affects atherogenesis and thrombogenicity. This study aimed to identify the metabolites in macrophage-rich unstable plaques that modulate atherogenesis and serve as potential markers of plaque instability. Atherosclerotic plaques were induced by balloon injury in the iliofemoral arteries of rabbits fed on a conventional or 0.5% cholesterol diet. At 3 months post-balloon injury, the arteries and cardiac tissues were subjected to histological, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and metabolomic analyses. The identified metabolite-related proteins were immunohistochemically analyzed in stable and unstable plaques from human coronary arteries. The factors modulating the identified metabolites were examined in macrophages derived from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Metabolomic analysis revealed that choline and guanine levels in macrophage-rich arteries were upregulated compared with those in non-injured arteries and cardiac tissues. Vascular choline levels, but not guanine levels, were positively correlated with the areas immunopositive for macrophages and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 mRNA levels in injured arteries. In human coronary arteries, choline transporter-like protein (CTL) 1 was mainly localized to macrophages within plaques. The area that was immunopositive for CTL1 in unstable plaques was significantly higher than that in stable plaques. Intracellular choline levels were upregulated upon stimulation with TNF-α but were downregulated under hypoxia in cultured macrophages. Administration of choline upregulated the expression of TNF-α and CTL1 mRNA in cultured macrophages. The transfection of CTL1 small interfering RNA decreased CTL1, TNF-α, and MMP9 mRNA levels in cultured macrophages. These results suggest that choline metabolism is altered in macrophage-rich atherosclerotic lesions and unstable plaques. Thus, CTL1 may be potential markers of plaque instability.
Intestinal edema induced by LPS-induced endotoxemia is associated with an inflammasome adaptor ASC
Authors: Yamamoto Toshihiro , Kurata Mie , Kaneko Naoe , Masumoto Junya
Published: February 2023

The apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC)/caspase-1/interleukin(IL)-1β axis, also known as the inflammasome pathway, is indispensable for IL-1β activation in response to various pathogens or own damages. Previously, we developed an NLRP3-inflammasome using a cell-free system and identified ASC targeting drugs; thus, examination of ASC-related histopathology in various diseases could help to provide indications for these drugs. Here, we generated mice deficient only in ASC-protein (ASC-deficient (AD) mice) using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, studied which tissues were most affected, and obtained histopathological images of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia. C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and (AD) mice were injected intraperitoneally with a lethal dose (50 μg/g) of LPS. Statistical analysis of the survival of C57BL/6 mice and AD mice was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test. The histopathological findings of multiple tissues from these mice were compared. Acute inflammation (e.g., catarrhal inflammation), along with congestion was observed in the colon of WT mice but not in that of AD mice. Adhesion of neutrophils to capillaries, along with interstitial infiltration, were observed in multiple tissues from WT mice. In AD mice, neutrophil infiltration was less severe but remained evident in the stomach, small intestine, heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and brain. Notably, there was no difference between WT and AD mice with respect to alveolar neutrophil infiltration and interstitial edema. These findings suggest that even though ASC contributes to systemic inflammation, it is dependent on the tissue involved. Intestinal congestion and edema might be good candidates for anti-ASC-targeted therapy.
National snakebite project on capacity building of health system on prevention and management of snakebite envenoming including its complications in selected districts of Maharashtra and Odisha in India: A study protocol
Authors: Gajbhiye Rahul K. , Chaaithanya Itta Krishna , Munshi Hrishikesh , Prusty Ranjan Kumar , Mahapatra Amarendra , Palo Subrata Kumar , Pati Sanghamitra , Yadav Arun , Bansode Manohar , Shambharkar Shashikant , Madavi Kanna , Bawaskar Himmatrao S. , Mahale Smita D.
Published: February 2023

Background

Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is an acute, life-threatening emergency in tropical and subtropical countries. It is an occupational hazard and a major socioeconomic determinant. Limited awareness, superstitions, lack of trained health providers, poor utilization of anti-venom results in high mortality and morbidity. India is the snakebite capital of the world. Yet, information on awareness, knowledge, and perceptions about snakebite is limited. Data on capacity building of health systems and its potential impact is lacking. Recommended by the National Task Force on snakebite research in India, this protocol describes the National Snakebite Project aiming for capacity building of health systems on prevention and management of snakebite envenomation in Maharashtra and Odisha states.

Methods

A cross-sectional, multi-centric study will be carried out in Shahapur, Aheri blocks of Maharashtra, and Khordha, Kasipur blocks of Odisha. The study has five phases: Phase I involves the collection of retrospective baseline data of snakebites, facility surveys, and community focus group discussions (FGDs). Phase II involves developing and implementing educational intervention programs for the community. Phase III will assess the knowledge and practices of the healthcare providers on snakebite management followed by their training in Phase IV. Phase V will evaluate the impact of the interventions on the community and healthcare system through FGDs and comparison of prospective and baseline data.

Discussion

The National Snakebite Project will use a multi-sectoral approach to reduce the burden of SBE. It intends to contribute to community empowerment and capacity building of the public healthcare system on the prevention and management of SBE. The results could be useful for upscaling to other Indian states, South Asia and other tropical countries. The findings of the study will provide critical regional inputs for the revision of the National Snakebite Treatment protocol.

Trial registration

Registered under the Clinical Trials Registry India no. CTRI/2021/11/038137.
A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the personality constructs in CPAI-2 in Taiwanese Hakka populations
Authors: Kao Pei-Ying , Chen Ming-Hui , Chang Wei-An , Pan Mei-Lin , Shu Wei-Der , Jong Yuh-Jyh , Huang Hsien-Da , Wang Cheng-Yan , Chu Hong-Yan , Pan Cheng-Tsung , Liu Yih-Lan , Lin Yeong-Shin
Published: February 2023

Here in this study we adopted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to investigate the genetic components of the personality constructs in the Chinese Personality Assessment Inventory 2 (CPAI-2) in Taiwanese Hakka populations, who are likely the descendants of a recent admixture between a group of Chinese immigrants with high emigration intention and a group of the Taiwanese aboriginal population generally without it. A total of 279 qualified participants were examined and genotyped by an Illumina array with 547,644 SNPs to perform the GWAS. Although our sample size is small and that unavoidably limits our statistical power (Type 2 error but not Type 1 error), we still found three genomic regions showing strong association with Enterprise, Diversity, and Logical vs. Affective Orientation, respectively. Multiple genes around the identified regions were reported to be nervous system related, which suggests that genetic variants underlying the certain personalities should indeed exist in the nearby areas. It is likely that the recent immigration and admixture history of the Taiwanese Hakka people created strong linkage disequilibrium between the emigration intention-related genetic variants and their neighboring genetic markers, so that we could identify them despite with only limited statistical power.
Whole-genome sequencing analysis in families with recurrent pregnancy loss: A pilot study
Authors: Workalemahu Tsegaselassie , Avery Cecile , Lopez Sarah , Blue Nathan R. , Wallace Amelia , Quinlan Aaron R. , Coon Hilary , Warner Derek , Varner Michael W. , Branch D. Ware , Jorde Lynn B. , Silver Robert M.
Published: February 2023

One to two percent of couples suffer recurrent pregnancy loss and over 50% of the cases are unexplained. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis has the potential to identify previously unrecognized causes of pregnancy loss, but few studies have been performed, and none have included DNA from families including parents, losses, and live births. We conducted a pilot WGS study in three families with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss, including parents, healthy live births, and losses, which included an embryonic loss (<10 weeks’ gestation), fetal deaths (10–20 weeks’ gestation) and stillbirths (≥ 20 weeks’ gestation). We used the Illumina platform for WGS and state-of-the-art protocols to identify single nucleotide variants (SNVs) following various modes of inheritance. We identified 87 SNVs involving 75 genes in embryonic loss (n = 1), 370 SNVs involving 228 genes in fetal death (n = 3), and 122 SNVs involving 122 genes in stillbirth (n = 2). Of these, 22de novo, 6 inherited autosomal dominant and an X-linked recessive SNVs were pathogenic (probability of being loss-of-function intolerant >0.9), impacting known genes (e.g.,DICER1,FBN2,FLT4,HERC1, andTAOK1) involved in embryonic/fetal development and congenital abnormalities. Further, we identified inherited missense compound heterozygous SNVs impacting genes (e.g.,VWA5B2) in two fetal death samples. The variants were not identified as compound heterozygous SNVs in live births and population controls, providing evidence for haplosufficient genes relevant to pregnancy loss. In this pilot study, we provide evidence forde novoand inherited SNVs relevant to pregnancy loss. Our findings provide justification for conducting WGS using larger numbers of families and warrant validation by targeted sequencing to ascertain causal variants. Elucidating genes causing pregnancy loss may facilitate the development of risk stratification strategies and novel therapeutics.
Learning a skill, or learning to learn? Supporting teachers’ professional development in music education technology
Authors: Partti Heidi , Weber Julia , Rolle Christian
Published: February 2023

Music education technology continues to open significant possibilities for composing, improvisation and other creative music-making activities in school classrooms. However, these possibilities are not always fully realized in the everyday life of the school, often due to limitations in teachers’ digital competencies. This article aims to examine the conditions necessary to facilitate continuing education that best supports teachers’ professional development in digital technology-supported classroom composition. By analysing the data material collected during a development project Future Songwriting (2018–20), this case study examines how professional development in music education technology was enhanced or constrained by the project. Future Songwriting was a European cooperation project, co-funded by the European Commission under the Creative Europe programme along with seven consortium partners and designed to provide teachers in three European countries (Finland, France and Germany) with hands-on training to upgrade their skills and knowledge related to the use of music education technology. This article focuses on the activities that took place in Finland (five schools) and Germany (five schools) from March 2019 to October 2020. Although many elements in the project promoted the participating teachers’ skill development and knowledge acquisition, opportunities for the teachers to engage in critical reflection to develop capacity in learning to learn in digital environments were limited. The article discusses the possibilities of continuing education projects for enhancing teachers’ digital identities.
The relationship between ovarian hormones and mast cell distribution in the ovaries of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries) during the follicular wave
Authors: Mohamed Ragab H. , Yousef Nasra A. , Awad Mahmoud , Mohamed Rasha S. , Ali Fatma , Hussein Hassan A. , Wehrend Axel
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim: Mast cells (MCs) play an essential role in regulating tissue homeostasis through various non-allergic immune reactions. This study aimed to describe the salient features of MCs during different phases of the estrous cycle and evaluate the relationship between ovarian hormones and the presence of MCs in camel ovaries.

Materials and Methods: Genital tracts (n = 28) of healthy, non-pregnant camels were collected from a local slaughterhouse. The follicular wave stage was determined according to structures on the ovaries using an ultrasound device. Stages were classified as "growing" (n = 12, FØ = 0.3–0.8 cm), "mature" (n = 9, FØ = 0.9–2.2 cm), or "regression" phase (n = 7, FØ >2.5). Blood samples were collected at slaughter to determine serum estradiol-17β and progesterone levels using an immunoassay. Safranin-O, periodic acid/Schiff, alcian blue, or methylene blue stains were used to detect MCs.

Results: Follicular numbers at the growing, mature, and regression phases were determined to be 36, 14, and 7 follicles, respectively. Mast cells were widely but sparsely distributed within the ovarian tissue (9.3 MCs in the growing phase, 10.7 in the mature phase, and 7.0 in the regression phase). Typical histological features of MCs were observed in ovarian stromal tissue. Some MCs were found in the interstitial tissue, either near the follicular wall or the interstitial gland. Mast cells were present at a higher density during the mature phase than in the growing and regression phases in the ovarian matrix. A significantly reduced presence of MCs was found in the regression phase than in both the growing and mature phases (p < 0.05). A very strong positive correlation was observed between serum estradiol-17β concentrations and MC density in the ovaries (r = 0.9; p < 0.001). In addition, a strong negative correlation (r = –0.65; p = 0.03) was observed between the presence of MCs and serum progesterone concentrations.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the follicular wave phase and the associated hormonal concentration induce changes in the number of MCs in the camel ovary.
Motivadores e Determinantes da Intenção de Visitar Parques Temáticos
Authors: Dos Santos Rennan Carvalho , Vicente Sales Melo Francisco , Freitas da Costa Marconi Freitas da Costa , Souza Silva Adrielly
Published: February 2023

Entender o que motiva o turista a conhecer parques temáticos pode ajudar no desenvolvimento de estratégias para organizações que atuam no campo do lazer, entretenimento e turismo. Nesse sentido, este estudo objetivou identificar os motivadores e determinantes da intenção de visitar parques temáticos por parte do consumidor. Realizou-se um survey online, obtendo-se dados de 258 participantes, sendo esses analisados por meio de regressão múltipla. Em geral, os resultados evidenciaram que, dos construtos propostos no modelo teórico, em que tanto os fatores motivacionais quanto os fatores determinantes, exercem influência positiva sobre a intenção de visitar, ainda que, os fatores motivacionais venham exercer, em determinados casos, uma força ainda maior diante do resultado. O preço também apareceu como um fator que impacta na intenção de compra. Apesar de o contexto turístico ser mais hedônico, foi possível observar que aspectos racionais são importantes motivadores no processo de escolha. Do ponto de vista teórico, a contribuição desta pesquisa decorre da investigação de um contexto ainda inédito na literatura do comportamento do consumidor turístico, trazendo uma nova visão a respeito da provável intenção de visitar do consumidor que tem certa propensão a adquirir esse tipo de serviço. Na prática, pode auxiliar os gestores a compreenderem quais atributos são mais importantes para seus clientes potenciais em suas tomadas de decisão.
A experiência turística inteligente na perspectiva do viajante
Authors: Corrêa Stela Cristina Hott , De Sevilha Gosling Marlusa
Published: February 2023

O estudo da experiência turística inteligente (ETI) tem priorizado a investigação do uso da tecnologia inteligente do turismo (TIT) pela governança turística e deixado os aspectos subjetivos do viajante em segundo plano. Procurando preencher esta lacuna, o objetivo deste trabalho é compreender a formação da ETI na perspectiva do viajante. Ele tem caráter exploratório-qualitativo empregando a análise de conteúdo nas opiniões de 76 respondentes. Como resultado, observa-se que a ETI se manifesta no aspecto tecnológico, mas também em respostas cognitivas, comportamentais, sociais e emocionais. A autopersonalização é percebida como um processo autônomo, em que o viajante busca informações e soluções sem esperar por ofertas customizadas. Esse esforço cognitivo é caracterizado por interações sociais geradoras de estados de autonomia e bem-estar que favorecem o apego ao lugar, o e-WOM e o engajamento do viajante nas redes sociais e canais de comunicação de conteúdo próprio das organizações do turismo. O trabalho apresenta como contribuição a formulação de proposições para pesquisas futuras fundamentadas nas relações descobertas na análise dos dados e sinaliza que a confiança possa ser uma variável auxiliar para o entendimento desse fenômeno no contexto da teoria das trocas sociais. Sugestões acadêmicas e gerenciais são apresentadas ao final.
Global Antiphospholipid Syndrome Score (GAPSS) in patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Cheldieva F. A. , Reshetnyak T. M. , Shumilova A. A. , Nurbaeva K. S. , Cherkasova M. V. , Samarkina E. Yu. , Lila A. M.
Published: February 2023

Stratification of patients into groups of high and low risk of adverse outcome is necessary for timely and early prevention of the disease, as well as the selection of adequate therapy.Objective: to validate the global risk scale for the development of clinical manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome (GAPSS) in a cohort of patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS).Material and methods. The study included 64 patients with PAPS. Data on clinical manifestations, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and antiphospholipid antibody profile were collected. GAPSS values were calculated for each patient by summing the scores corresponding to risk factors as follows: 3 points – for hyperlipidemia; 1 point – for arterial hypertension; 5 points – for antibodies to cardiolipin (aCL) IgG/IgM; 4 points – for antibodies to â2-glycoprotein 1 (anti-â2GP1) IgG/IgM and 3 points – for antibodies to the phosphatidylserine-prothrombin complex (aPS/PT) IgG/IgM.Results and discussion. GAPSS indicators were comparable in women and men with PAPS – 12.0 [9.0; 13.0] points. GAPSS values did not differ in patients with thrombosis and obstetric pathology: in thrombosis they were 10.0±4.46 (range 0.0–14.0) points, in obstetric pathology – 9.26±5.08 (range 0.0–14.0) points.The localization of thrombosis did not affect the GAPSS values, which reached 9.23±5.21 points in arterial thrombosis, 10.44±4.01 points in venous thrombosis, and 10.33±4.18 points in combined ones. Patients with recurrent thrombosis had higher GAPSS scores compared to patients without relapse: 8.19±5.25 points versus 11.00±3.65 points (p=0.01). There were no significant differences in GAPSS scores in obstetric pathology at different gestational ages.GAPSS values ≥6 showed a higher risk of thrombosis recurrence: odds ratio 5.23 (95% CI 1.34–20.37). GAPSS scores ≥6 demonstrated the highest accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity of 72% and 66%, respectively. According to ROC analysis, the AUC value for GAPSS was 0.675 (95% CI 0.542–0.808; p=0.01).Conclusion. The use of GAPSS makes it possible to identify patients at increased risk of recurrent thrombosis. GAPSS scores ≥6 have high sensitivity (72%) and specificity (66%), which can be used to stratify patients with PAPS into high and low risk groups for recurrent thrombosis.
Combination of sporadic inclusion body myositis and primary Sjögren’s syndrome: clinical case and review of literature
Authors: Khvan Yu. I. , Khelkovskaya-Sergeeva A. N.
Published: February 2023

The article presents a review of the literature and a clinical observation of a patient with long-term anamnesis of primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS) in combination with sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM). The diagnosis of SS was confirmed in accordance with the Russian diagnostic criteria for SS 2001, as well as with the ACR 2012 and ACR/EULAR 2016 criteria. The diagnosis of sIBM was established on the basis of a characteristic clinical picture: the development of the disease in a woman after 50 years of age with slowly progressive asymmetric muscle weakness and a typical distribution, a moderate increase in the level of creatine phosphokinase (<10 norms for the entire observation period), the presence of a generalized primary muscle process according to needle electromyography, a typical picture of muscle involvement according to magnetic resonance imaging, and the ineffectiveness of high doses of glucocorticoids. The absence of histological confirmation does not contradict the diagnosis, since morphological examination of muscles in patients with a typical course of the disease fails to detect characteristic signs of sIBM in 20% of cases.

Currently, there is no effective pathogenetic therapy for sIBM. Understanding the mechanisms of sIBM development will allow to develop effective methods of its treatment.
Satanizando a Herodes
Authors: Cardozo Mindiola Cristian
Published: February 2023

A pesar de que Mt 2,13-16 responsabiliza a Herodes por sus acciones asesinas, varios autores cristianos primitivos postularon que él había actuado bajo la influencia del diablo. Entre ellos destacan Ticonio y Ecumenio, pues ellos fueron los primeros en ofrecer un marco hermenéutico que justificase dicha conclusión. Este artículo explora, empleando a la Wirkungsgeschichte como metodología, ¿por qué Ticonio y Ecumenio creyeron que Herodes actuó bajo la influencia Satanás en Mt 2,13-16?, y ¿cómo arribaron a estas conclusiones? Como consecuencia, se propone que la satanización de Herodes es producto de la lectura intertextual de Mt 2 y Ap 12, pues de esta forma las acciones del rey de Judea reflejan las del dragón apocalíptico.
The effects of cultural and educational background on students’ use of language learning strategies in CFL learning
Authors: Liu Fulan , Rao Zhenhui
Published: February 2023

This study investigated the use of language learning strategies (LLS) by Australian students and East Asian students in Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) learning, and then interpreted the findings from cultural and educational perspectives. Using a questionnaire and semi-structure interview, the researchers found that there were significant differences in strategy use between Australian students and East Asian students. The East Asian students employed more learning strategies associated with working hard and perseverance, whereas the Australian students used more learning strategies related to self-realization. Meanwhile, the strategies used more frequently by the East Asian students were relevant to high acceptance of power and authority, but the strategies used more often by the Australian students were associated with low acceptance of power and authority. Finally, the traditional teaching methods used in East Asian countries resulted in the students’ use of learning strategies concerning analysis of grammatical rules and linguistic details, but the communicative approach employed in Australia helped the students use the strategies leading to improvement of communicative competence and understanding of overall meaning in a text. A deep analysis of these findings shows that the disparities in students’ strategy use could be linked to some cultural and educational factors.
Meta-analysis of cancer risk among end stage renal disease undergoing maintenance dialysis
Authors: Xie Xin , Li Fang , Xie Longsheng , Yu Yanxia , Ou Santao , He Rongfang
Published: February 2023

Currently, there is no consensus on whether maintenance dialysis increases cancer risk in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Therefore, this study was to systematically evaluate the risk of cancer among ESRD patients undergoing maintenance dialysis. Related studies on the impact of maintenance dialysis on cancer risk were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and other databases from their respective inceptions to 19 February 2021. ESRD patients receiving maintenance dialysis were classified into cancer including non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and cancer excluding NMSC. Standardized incidence ratio (SIR) with its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated to assess cancer risk. Fourteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. The risk of cancer in patients undergoing maintenance dialysis (with or without NMSC) was significantly higher than controls both in cancer including NMSC (SIR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.27–1.49, P < 0.001) and cancer excluding NMSC (SIR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.23–1.47, P < 0.001). Subgroup results identified the higher risk of cancer incidence in both men and women receiving maintenance dialysis. Meanwhile, elevated excess risks were observed among patients with younger age and shorter follow-up time (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, the combined SIR of bladder, cervix, colorectum, kidney, liver, thyroid, tongue, and other cancers were all increased (P < 0.05). ESRD patients undergoing dialysis has higher risk of cancer.
Mechanical properties and durability of ultra-high-performance concrete with calcined diatomaceous earth as cement replacement
Authors: Hasan Muttaqin , Jamil Muhammad , Saidi Taufiq
Published: February 2023

Calcined diatomaceous earth (CDE) with a maximum grain size of 143 μm was used to partially replace 5 and 10% of cement in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) mixtures. The other materials used in producing the concrete include Ordinary Portland Cement, iron ore powder, and river sand with maximum grain sizes 112.5, 231, and 766.2 μm, respectively. Moreover, the UHPC specimens designed with a water–cement ratio of 0.2 and a superplasticizer of 1.5% from the cement weight were tested for flow, compressive strength, flexural strength, splitting tensile strength, durability against NaCl and Na2SO4 attack, and resistance to 400, 500, and 600°C temperatures. The results showed that the use of 5 and 10% CDE to replace cement was able to increase the compressive strength, flexural strength, splitting tensile strength, the durability of UHPC against NaCl, and Na2SO4, as well as its resistance to high temperatures but reduced the mixture flow.
Telecom single-photon emitters in GaN operating at room temperature: embedment into bullseye antennas
Authors: Meunier Max , Eng John J. H. , Mu Zhao , Chenot Sebastien , Brändli Virginie , de Mierry Philippe , Gao Weibo , Zúñiga-Pérez Jesús
Published: February 2023

The ideal single-photon source displaying high brightness and purity, emission on-demand, mature integration, practical communication wavelength (i.e., in the telecom range), and operating at room temperature does not exist yet. In 2018, a new single-photon source was discovered in gallium nitride (GaN) showing high potential thanks to its telecom wavelength emission, record-high brightness, good purity, and operation at room temperature. Despite all these assets, its coupling to photonic structures has not been achieved so far. In this article, we make a first step in this direction. First, we analyze whether stacking faults are indeed a necessary condition for obtaining such emitters in GaN layers. Then, we discuss the challenges associated to a low spatial density and to a spectrally wide distribution of emitters, which necessitate their location to be determined beforehand and the photonic structure resonance to be tuned to their emission wavelength. The design and fabrication of bullseye antennas are thoroughly described. Finally, we fabricate such bullseyes around telecom emitters and demonstrate that the embedded emitters are able to sustain the necessary clean-room process and still operate as single-photon emitters after the fabrication steps, with room-temperature purities up to 99% combined with repetition rates in the order of hundreds of kHz. The findings in this work demonstrate that telecom single-photon emitters in GaN operating at room temperature are well adapted for single-photon applications where brightness and purity are the required figures of merit, but highlight the numerous difficulties that still need to be overcome before they can be exploited in actual quantum photonic applications.
One-pot synthesis and crystal structure of diethyl 2,6-dimethyl-4-(1-(2-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate, C21H23N5O6
Authors: Konovalova Irina S. , Geleverya Anna O. , Kovalenko Sergiy M. , Reiss Guido J.
Published: February 2023

C21H23N5O6, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.4861(4) Å, b = 16.3198(8) Å, c = 15.8521(8) Å, β = 97.605(5)°, V = 2176.1(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0463, wR
ref = 0.1201, T = 293(2) K.
Apigenin improves cytotoxicity of antiretroviral drugs against HTLV-1 infected cells through the modulation of AhR signaling
Authors: Sales Dominic , Lin Edward , Stoffel Victoria , Dickson Shallyn , Khan Zafar K. , Beld Joris , Jain Pooja
Published: February 2023

Objectives

HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a neuroinflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by high levels of infected immortalized T cells in circulation, which makes it difficult for antiretroviral (ART) drugs to work effectively. In previous studies, we established that Apigenin, a flavonoid, can exert immunomodulatory effects to reduce neuroinflammation. Flavonoids are natural ligands for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which is a ligand activated endogenous receptor involved in the xenobiotic response. Consequently, we tested Apigenin’s synergy in combination with ART against the survival of HTLV-1-infected cells.

Methods

First, we established a direct protein-protein interaction between Apigenin and AhR. We then demonstrated that Apigenin and its derivative VY-3-68 enter activated T cells, drive nuclear shuttling of AhR, and modulate its signaling both at RNA and protein level.

Results

In HTLV-1 producing cells with high AhR expression, Apigenin cooperates with ARTs such as Lopinavir (LPN) and Zidovudine (AZT), to impart cytotoxicity by exhibiting a major shift in IC50 that was reversed upon AhR knockdown. Mechanistically, Apigenin treatment led to an overall downregulation of NF-κB and several other pro-cancer genes involved in survival.

Conclusions

This study suggest the potential combinatorial use of Apigenin with current first-line antiretrovirals for the benefit of patients affected by HTLV-1 associated pathologies.
Properties of potassium dihydrogen phosphate and its effects on plants and soil
Authors: Jančaitienė Kristina , Šlinkšienė Rasa , Žvirdauskienė Renata
Published: February 2023

One of the challenges of the modern world is to improve human nutrition and to safely increase the yield of agricultural production using existing agricultural land. It is clear that sufficient agricultural efficiency cannot be achieved without fertilizers, but fertilizers must cause minimal damage to the soil. Microorganisms, such as spore-forming bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, algae, and protozoa play an important role in the soil and keep soil healthy. One of the soil substances involved in reactions that take place in plants is cellulose. This study investigated the effect of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (PDP), synthesized (via conversion between potassium chloride and ammonium dihydrophosphate) and granulated with the addition of microcrystalline cellulose (MC), on plants (winter wheat Toras, Lithuania) and soil microorganisms. The data of plants fertilized with pure KH2PO4, ones fertilized with PDP granulated with MC, and grown without fertilizers were compared in this study. Scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analysis were used to characterize the obtained product. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate the differences of the mean values between groups. In all cases, the significance level was p ≤ 0.05. The effect of pure KH2PO4 on plant indicators was found to be lower than that of granular PDP with MC. The length of the leaves was 29.63 and 31.20 cm, green mass was 0.471 and 0.763 g, ash mass was 0.015 and 0.019 g, respectively. In addition, granular PDP with MC did not adversely affect the soil microorganisms because the number of any species of bacteria (Spore b., mineral nitrogen assimilating bacteria, cellulose degrading bacteria) did not decrease and a slight increase in the number of Actinomycetes (from 8.5 × 105 to 2.9 × 106 KSV/g) and molds (from 3.0 × 104 to 1.4 × 105 KSV/g) was observed. The granular PDP with MC that we developed and used have better physical properties, higher agrochemical efficiency and cause less harm to soil microorganisms compared to pure PDP.
Alltagssprache, Beschreibungssprache und praxeologische Validität
Authors: Meier zu Verl Christian , Meyer Christian , Oberzaucher Frank
Published: February 2023

Dieser Beitrag ergänzt die Debatte über sozialwissenschaftliche Güte um zwei Dimensionen. Erstens diskutieren wir anhand einiger Positionen des interpretativen Paradigmas, welche Konsequenzen sich aus der doppelten Relevanz von Sprache als sowohl Bestandteil des Gegenstands, als auch Medium wissenschaftlicher Beschreibung für die Bewertung sozialwissenschaftlicher Güte ergeben. Eine rigide Forschung muss sich in Bezug auf diese doppelte Relevanz positionieren und diese Position konsistent umsetzen. Zweitens schlagen wir das ethnomethodologische Konzept der praxeologischen Validität als bislang übersehenes Gütekriterium vor. Praxeologische Validität ist immer dann gewährleistet, wenn die Prozeduren zur Erzeugung sozialer Phänomene nach ihrer Identifikation und Beschreibung so reproduziert werden können, dass die Phänomene selbst erneut entstehen. Dieses Kriterium gibt Soziolog:innen die Möglichkeit, die Angemessenheit soziologischer Beschreibungen am Gegenstand selbst zu validieren.
Load-Deflection Response of Steel-Basalt Hybrid Fiber–Reinforced Copper Slag Concrete Beams
Authors: Dharmar Brindha , John Vinotha Jenifer
Published: February 2023

In the proposed research, the load-deflection response of hybrid fiber (steel and basalt fibers) reinforced copper slag concrete was investigated based on the studied mechanical properties of hybrid-fiber concrete such as compression, tension, flexure, fracture, and microstructure. Based on various experimental results, the optimum volume fraction of steel and basalt fibers was identified and fused together in hybrid form to study its behavior under static loading conditions. The objective of the study was to observe the influence of hybrid fibers as the primary reinforcement in concrete beams. The results were promising, indicating higher energy absorption ability. The developed combination of hybrid-fiber concrete was investigated for various parameters such as first-cracking behavior, load-deflection pattern, energy absorption capacity, ductility characteristics, stiffness of beams, and failure mode of beams subjected to load-deflection behavior. Significant results were obtained by replacing steel rebars as the primary reinforcement with regard to post-peak response and ductility.
Vestibular Contributions to Primate Neck Postural Muscle Activity during Natural Motion
Authors: Mildren Robyn L. , Cullen Kathleen E.
Published: February 2023

To maintain stable posture of the head and body during our everyday activities, the brain integrates information across multiple sensory systems. Here, we examined how the primate vestibular system, independently and in combination with visual sensory input, contributes to the sensorimotor control of head posture across the range of dynamic motion experienced during daily life. We recorded activity of single motor units in the splenius capitis and sternocleidomastoid muscles in rhesus monkeys during yaw rotations spanning the physiological range of self-motion (up to 20 Hz) in darkness. Splenius capitis motor unit responses continued to increase with frequency up to 16 Hz in normal animals, and were strikingly absent following bilateral peripheral vestibular loss. To determine whether visual information modulated these vestibular-driven neck muscle responses, we experimentally controlled the correspondence between visual and vestibular cues of self-motion. Surprisingly, visual information did not influence motor unit responses in normal animals, nor did it substitute for absent vestibular feedback following bilateral peripheral vestibular loss. A comparison of muscle activity evoked by broadband versus sinusoidal head motion further revealed that low-frequency responses were attenuated when low- and high-frequency self-motion were experienced concurrently. Finally, we found that vestibular-evoked responses were enhanced by increased autonomic arousal, quantified via pupil size. Together, our findings directly establish the vestibular system's contribution to the sensorimotor control of head posture across the dynamic motion range experienced during everyday activities, as well as how vestibular, visual, and autonomic inputs are integrated for postural control.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOur sensory systems enable us to maintain control of our posture and balance as we move through the world. Notably, the vestibular system senses motion of the head and sends motor commands, via vestibulospinal pathways, to axial and limb muscles to stabilize posture. By recording the activity of single motor units, here we show, for the first time, that the vestibular system contributes to the sensorimotor control of head posture across the dynamic motion range experienced during everyday activities. Our results further establish how vestibular, autonomic, and visual inputs are integrated for postural control. This information is essential for understanding both the mechanisms underlying the control of posture and balance, and the impact of the loss of sensory function.