bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of the set-up for the different approaches in robotic head and neck surgery with the Versius Surgical System
Authors: Granell Jose , Ramirez-Rosa Alex , Fernandez-Rastrilla Isabel , Granados-Sitges Juan , Caballero Pablo , Granell Lucia , Sanchez-Camon Isabel , Mendez-Benegassi Ivan , Gutierrez-Fonseca Raimundo
Published: May 2023

Introduction. The Versius Surgical System is a next generation soft-tissue robot with instrument and endoscope arms split into individual modules. Despite its similarities with previous systems, the basic changes in the design raise concerns relating to the feasibility of the set-up for the different approaches in robotic head and neck surgery procedures. Materials and Methods. We used a complete unit with a surgeon´s console and four modules on a training mannequin to depict the different configurations in the operating room. We tested transoral robotic surgery and the four basic configurations for the remote access to the neck: transoral/transvestibular, retroauricular, axillary and bilateral axillo-breast approaches. Results. We obtained a high quality simulation for transoral robotic surgery, as well as for the usual remote access approaches, except for the axillary approach. We were able to obtain an optimal distribution of the modules around the surgical table and an adequate configuration of the joints allowing the instruments to reach their targets. Conclusion. The Versius Surgical System might be an alternative device for robotic procedures in Head and Neck Surgery, although this needs to be proved in a clinical setting.
The Bacterial Gq Signal Transduction Inhibitor Fr900359 Impairs Soil-associated and Plant Pathogenic Nematodes
Authors: Hanke Wiebke , Alenfelder Judith , Liu Jun , Gutbrod Philipp , Kehraus Stefan , Crüsemann Max , Dörmann Peter , Kostenis Evi , Scholz Monika , König Gabriele M.
Published: May 2023

The cyclic depsipeptide FR900359 (FR) is derived from the soil bacterium Chromobacterium vaccinii and known to bind Gq proteins of mammals and insects, thereby abolishing the signal transduction of their Gq protein-coupled receptors, a process that leads to severe physiological consequences. Due to their highly conserved structure, Gq family of proteins are a superior ecological target for FR producing organisms, resulting in a defense towards a broad range of harmful organisms. Here, we focus on the question whether bacteria like C. vaccinii are important factors in soil in that their secondary metabolites impair, e.g., plant harming organisms like nematodes. We prove that the Gq inhibitor FR is produced under soil-like conditions. Furthermore, FR inhibits heterologously expressed Gαq proteins of the nematodes Caenorhabditis elegans and Heterodera schachtii in the micromolar range. Additionally, in vivo experiments with C. elegans and the plant parasitic cyst nematode H. schachtii demonstrated that FR reduces locomotion of C. elegans and H. schachtii. Finally, egg-laying of C. elegans and hatching of juvenile stage 2 of H. schachtii from its cysts is inhibited by FR, suggesting that FR might reduce nematode dispersion and proliferation. This study supports the idea that C. vaccinii and its excreted metabolome in the soil might contribute to an ecological equilibrium, maintaining and establishing the successful growth of plants.
Multiomics reveals the ameliorating effect and underlying mechanism of polygonatum sibiricum rhizome water extract on HFD-induced mouse obesity
Authors: Wang Qi , Ou Xiaobin , Li Boping , Han Yapeng , Yang Yan , Gao Kai , Liu Zhengkun , Liu Haiqing , Li Dongbo , Liu Xiuli , Xu Zaoxu , Xiang Xuesong , Chen Juanjuan
Published: May 2023

Background Polysaccharides and ethanol extract from Polygonatum sibiricum rhizome were reported to improve high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mouse obesity. However, the effect and potential mechanism of Polygonatum sibiricum rhizome water extract (PSRwe) on HFD-induced obesity mice remains unclear. The present study was sought to comprehensively elucidate that. An obese mouse model was established by feeding HFD and PSRwe were intragastrically administered once a day for 40 days. Changes in body weight, gut microbiota and their metabolites, plasma and liver metabolomics, colonic and liver transcriptomics were explored. The compounds in PSRwe were also examined.Results Body weight was significantly reduced after two weeks of PSRwe administration. Meanwhile, PSRwe treatment has significantly recovered the richness and diversity of gut microbiota in HFD-caused obesity mice. Specifically, beneficial species including Akkermansia muciniphila and functional pathways including fatty acids biosythesis and elongation, pentose phosphate pathway, glycolysis and reductive TCA cycle were significantly enriched in PSRwe group compared with oebsity. RNA-seq revealed that the function of the up-regulated DEGs in liver of PSRwe mice were mainly concentrated on lipid and fatty acid oxidation and metabolism, while the down-regulated DEGs were mainly focused on sterols and sterol biosynthesis and metabolism. In colon, however, the function of up-regulated DEGs were primarily JAK-STAT/PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, regulation of GTPase activity, and response to cation while the down-regulated DEGs were centered on glycolysis, fructose/mannose/pyruvate metabolism, fat digestion and absorption, and PPAR signaling pathway. Metabolomics analysis indicated that betaine, an effective component from PSR water extracts, has showed higher levels in both liver and plasma of PSRwe-treated mice, indicating that it was significantly associated with obesity. In addition, correlation analysis showed that the significantly different species enriched in PSRwe group were negatively correlated with colonic DEGs related on PPAR signaling pathway, glycolysis etc. but positively correlated with JAK-STAT signaling pathway etc. Intriguingly, common metabolites in plasma and liver were negatively correlated with liver DEGs related on steroids and sterols biosynthesis and metabolism but positively correlated with fatty acid metabolism.Conclusions Collectively, our study demonstrated that PSRwe could significantly alleviate HFD-induced mouse obesity via either directly affect lipid metabolism through effective betaine or by changing gut microbiota and their metabolites to alter gene expression associated with fatty acid metabolism in liver and colon, suggesting PSRwe might be a promising therapeutic candidate for obesity in clinical.
Clinicopathological Features, Immune Infiltration Landscape and Involved Signaling Pathways of the desmogleins family in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lin Zhenyu , Du Yongxing , Duan YunJie , Zhang Wei , Huang Zhangkan , Yin Xin , Ma Teng , Xie Yunliang , Che Xu
Published: May 2023

Background
A growing body of evidence suggests that the DSG family plays a key role in tumorigenesis and progression; however, the function of DSG family members in PAAD remains unclear.
Methods
Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was performed to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics, prognostic value, imnological features, and functional mechanisms of DSG family members in PAAD, using UALCAN, the HPA, Kaplan–Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, TISIDB, LinkedOmics, STRING and GSCALite Database.
Results
The expression of DSG family members was significantly higher in PAAD tissues compared with paraneoplastic or normal tissues, and their copy number variation was significantly associated with poorer clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in PAAD patients. Furthermore, the roles of DSG family members in immune regulation are diverse and complex. Mechanistically, TP53 mutations are significantly associated with promoter methylation and the expression of DSG family members, and EGFR may be key to the role of DSG family members in PAAD. DSG family members activate several oncogenic pathways, including EMT, PI3K/AKT, and RAS/MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, we found that the expression of DSG family members was significantly correlated with sensitivity to multiple conventional chemotherapeutic agents and novel targeted drugs.
Conclusions
DSG family members play an oncogenic role in the development of PAAD and may serve as novel biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
Tau Accumulation in Degradative Organelles is Associated to Lysosomal Stress
Authors: Piovesana Ester , Magrin Claudia , Ciccaldo Matteo , Sola Martina , Bellotto Manolo , Molinari Maurizio , Papin Stéphanie , Paganetti Paolo
Published: May 2023

Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by the brain deposition of insoluble amyloidogenic proteins, such as α-synuclein or Tau, and the concomitant deterioration of cell functions such as the autophagy-lysosomal pathway (ALP). The ALP is involved in the degradation of intracellular macromolecules including protein aggregates. ALP dysfunction due to inherited defects in lysosomal or non-lysosomal proteins causes a group of diseases called lysosomal storage disorders (LSD) because of abnormal accumulation of lysosomal degradation substrates. Supporting the contribution of ALP defects in neurodegenerative diseases, deposition of amyloidogenic proteins occurs in LSD. Moreover, heterozygous mutations of several ALP genes represent risk factors for Parkinson’s disease. The reciprocal contribution of α-synuclein accumulation and lysosomal dysfunction have been extensively studied. However, whether this adverse crosstalk also embraces Tau pathology needs more investigation. Here, we show in human primary fibroblasts that Tau seeds isolated from the brain of Alzheimer’s disease induce Tau accumulation in acidic degradative organelles and lysosomal stress. Furthermore, inhibition of glucocerebrosidase, a lysosomal enzyme mutated in Gaucher’s disease and a main risk for Parkinson’s disease, causes lysosomal dysfunction in primary fibroblasts and contributes to the accumulation of Tau. Considering the presence of Tau lesions in Parkinson’s disease as well as in multiple neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, our data call for further studies on strategies to alleviate ALP dysfunction as new therapeutic opportunity for neurodegenerative diseases and LSD.
Effects of atrazine and S-metolachlor on stream periphyton taxonomic and fatty acid composition
Authors: Malbezin Laura , Morin Soizic , Lavoie Isabelle
Published: May 2023

Extensive pesticide use for agriculture diffusely pollutes aquatic ecosystems through leaching and runoff events and has the potential to negatively affect non-target organisms. Atrazine and S-metolachlor are two widely used herbicides often detected in high concentrations in rivers that drain nearby agricultural lands. To determine the effects of these two herbicides on river ecosystems, we conducted a 14-day laboratory experiment to expose river periphyton to a wide range of atrazine and S-metolachlor concentrations. The response of periphyton was evaluated using ecologically relevant endpoints including chlorophyll a fluorescence and fatty acids composition. Results showed that atrazine disrupted photoautotroph biomass measured by chlorophyll a fluorescence. Both herbicides caused dissimilarities in fatty acid profiles between control and high exposure concentrations, but S-metolachlor had a stronger effect than atrazine on the observe increase or reduction in saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). Our study demonstrates that two commonly used herbicides, atrazine and S-metolachlor, can negatively affect the composition and fatty acid profiles of stream periphyton, thereby altering the nutritional quality of this resource for primary consumers.
Synthesizes, characterization, molecular modelling studies and bioactivity of a novel bicyclic compound of δ-lactam with oxazepine ring containing-sulphur substitute using an economic method
Authors: Muslim Rasim Farraj , Guma Manaf A. , Abedulrahman May F. , Ahmad Iqrar , Patel Harun , Rabeea Muwafaq A
Published: May 2023

Penicillin resistance is a commonly present and controversial matter due to the misuses by people for various reasons. However, little studies have been examined the bioactivity of the 5 and 6 membered rings. In this study, we aimed to synthesize a new compound contain 5- membered ring following a short and low cost method and combined it with oxazepine ring via Schiff bases to produce a bicyclic molecule (Lactozepine). In vitro examinations were implemented to assess the bioactivity of the prepared compound such as anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant which has shown a wide zone of inhibition of lactozepine against Streptococcus pneumoniae but no inhibition was shown against Kelbesilla pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus except at a high concentration similar to the result of the anti-fungal assessment. Furthermore, lactozepine showed worthy anti-oxidant activity against free radical formation. The molecular modelling and docking assessment showed availability of lactozepine to bind to bacterial proteins and inhibit their growth with lowest free energy for the greatest and strong binding affinity with the PDB crystal structures 1VQQ, 2WAE, 1PYY and 1IYS were between − 6.5 and − 7.9 kcal/mol. Moreover, the molecular MD dynamic simulation showed that RMSF (root mean square fluctuation) for the assessed protein's amino acids remained consistent and tightly bound to lactozepine in the dynamic state. The novel compound of lactozepine having δ-lactam rings attached to oxazepine showed a bioactivity that are hopeful for in vivo studies in the future.
Characterization of Volatile Compounds in Rose Hydrosol Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry: Sensory Evaluation and Antioxidant activities
Authors: Wan Yilai , Li Yazhuan , Liu Lingzhen , Li Fuhe , Wang Na , Zhang Tingting , Wei Changqing , Liu Wenyu
Published: May 2023

In this study, Yunnan Dark Red Rose petals were used as experimental materials, and rose hydrosol was extracted by steam distillation. Under the optimal extraction parameters, whether stamens were added or not was also taken into account. Four groups of control rose hydrosol samples were set up for sensory evaluation, and the sample with strong aroma was selected. The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: no stamens were added, the ratio of fixed material to liquid was 1:3, distillation time was 3 h, and the concentration of sodium chloride was 3%. The volatile substances in the rose hydrosol were analyzed and evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that the main aroma substances in the pure rose dew were linalool, citronellol, β-phenylethanol, benzyl alcohol, eugenol methyl ether, eugenol, perilla alcohol, etc. These substances had great influence on the overall aroma of rose hydrosol, which could better reflect the aroma characteristics of roses. The antioxidant activity was analyzed and evaluated by the scavenging rates of rose hydrosol on DPPH, ·OH and superoxide anion (·O2-) respectively. The scavenging rates of DPPH, ·OH and ·O2- in rose hydrosol at 100 mg/mL were 26.13%, 55.56% and 10.76%, and the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids were 14.9 ± 2.5 gallic acid equivalent (GAE) mg/g and 19.3 ± 1.3 rutin equivalent (RE) mg/g respectively, which indicated that the extracted rose hydrosol had good antioxidation.
Kinematics and activation of hamstring muscles during the initial acceleration phase of sprinting in soccer players: A biomechanical investigation
Authors: Le Thiet Van , Kikuchi Yudai , Takabayashi Tomoya , Kikumoto Takanori , Kubo Masayoshi
Published: May 2023

Purpose Sprinting is the most common activity associated with hamstring strain injuries in soccer. However, the potential mechanisms for hamstring strain injuries during the initial acceleration phase of sprinting are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the kinematics and activation of the hamstring muscles in soccer players to define the potential mechanism of hamstring strain injury.Methods Ten male soccer players with no lower-limb injuries in the past year were recruited for this study. Each participant was instructed to perform a minimum of three successful 15 m sprints. Hamstring kinematics and activations were estimated by employing musculoskeletal modeling and wireless electromyography to define potential injury mechanisms.Results During the initial acceleration phase, the hamstring muscles undergo great strain and high activation levels during the late swing and early stance phases. The hamstring muscles experienced great strain and overload during the late swing and foot strike of the running gait cycle. Additionally, the biceps femoris long head was significantly more stretched than the semimembranosus and semitendinosus (p < 0.0001, p < 0.05).Conclusion Based on these results, hamstring injuries are likely to occur during the late-swing and early stance of the running gait cycle, with the biceps femoris long head being more susceptible to injuries than other hamstring muscles.
CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOME IN LATERAL END CLAVICLE FRACTURES FOLLOWING CLAVICLE LOCKING PLATE FIXATION
Authors: Ahmad Dar Nisar , Ahmad Shah Nissar , Rashid Badoo Abdul
Published: May 2023

Aim: The lateral end clavicle fractures comprise around 25% of all clavicle fractures. Various deforming forces acting over here render this fracture unstable. There are various treatment options of the lateral end of clavicle ranging from non-operative to operative methods like coracoclavicular screws, k wire fixation, tension band wiring, hook plates, non- locking and locking plates and coracoclavicular augmentation. In this study, we have evaluated the functional and radiological outcomes of the patients in whom a locking plate was used for fixation of the lateral end of clavicle fractures. Methods: 15 patients with lateral end clavicle fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a 3.5 mm pre-contoured superior locking plate under general anaesthesia or regional block. Regular post operative X-rays were done until radiological union was achieved. The postoperative pain was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)on postoperative day 1 and at 2 weeks. The operated limb was supported by a sling for 3 weeks with intermittent passive and active assisted range of motion exercises. The functional outcome was assessed at the end of 1 month,3 months and 6 months postoperatively with the help of QuickDASH scoring system. Results: All the fractures achieved radiological union at an average duration of 12.1 weeks (range 9.8-13.4). The mean VAS score on post-operative day 1 was found to be 5 which decreased to 1 at two weeks postoperatively. The mean postoperative QuickDASH score was 52.23+/- 1.9 at the end of 1 month,20.4+/- 1.9 at 3 months and then 1.3 +/-1.6 at the end of 6 months. There was one case of implant backout with hardware promince and one case had superficial infection which responded to short course of oral antibiotics and dressings. Conclusion: The precontoured superior clavicle locking plates may be a good method to fix the fractures of the lateral end clavicle, providing a stable fixation with good radiological and functional outcome, although larger comparative studies between the various surgical treatment methods need to be done to validate this method of treatment.
EFFECTIVENESSOFSELF-INSTRUCTIONAL MODULEONKNOWLEDGEREGARDING DIETARY APPROACHES TO STOP HYPERTENSION (DASH)
Authors:   Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Kishtwar, BGSB University, Jammu & Kashmir., K.K Ajith , V. Nair Vijayasree ,   Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Rajouri, BGSB University, Jammu & Kashmir., Manikandan S. ,   Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Rajouri, BGSB University, Jammu & Kashmir.
Published: May 2023

Background: A study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of Self-Instructional Module on knowledge regarding dietary approaches to stop hypertension among hypertensive patients in selected hospital, Sikar, Rajasthan. A total sample of 60, hypertensive patients were selected using purposive sampling technique. The objectives of the study were to assess the level of knowledge among hypertensive patientsregarding dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) before and after intervention (Self Instructional module) and to determine the effectiveness of self-instructional module on level of knowledge regarding DASH among hypertensive patients. The final objective was to find out the association between pre-test level of knowledge and selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A one-group pre-test post-test design was used to conduct the study. 60 hypertensive patients from selected hospital were enrolled using non-probabilitypurposive sampling technique. The conceptual framework of the study was based on Ludwig von Bertalanffys General System Model. Tools used for data collection were demographic Performa and structured knowledge questionnaire. Results: Data analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings of the study revealed that the mean post-test knowledge score 23.00Â±2.7 was significantly higher than the mean pre-test knowledge score 10.00Â±2.3 with the Paired t value computed [31.60**, df=59] was statistically significant (P<0.01 level). Significant association was observed between level of knowledge and gender at 0.05 level. Conclusion: The findings of the study confirmed tha the Self-instructional module was significantly effective in improving the knowledge regarding DASH among hypertensive patients.
Analysis of Cohesion and Coherence of Written Products by Reading Performance and Developmental Levels
Authors: CEYLAN Mustafa
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Reading and writing are academic skills that should be given importance to the acquisition and development of students from the first step of their education life. It is stated in the literature that reading and writing contain similar processes, cognitive skills and contexts, and therefore reading skills have a positive relationship with writing skills. In this study, the cohesion and coherence of students' written products were examined depending on their reading performance and grade level. Method: The research was carried out with a comparative descriptive model, one of the quantitative research methods. In the study, the frequency of using cohesion items and the text coherence scores of 183 poor readers (fourth grade 50, sixth grade 71 and eighth grade 62) and 192 good readers (fourth grade 55, sixth grade 74 and eighth grade 63) in written products were examined by comparison. Informal Reading Inventory, a video prepared to remind the story structure and a silent movie were used to collect the data. In the analysis of the data, Mann Whitney U Tests were used for pairwise comparisons and Kruskal Wallis Tests were used for triple comparisons. Findings: Looking at the cohesion items, it is seen that poor readers in the fourth and eighth grades get lower scores than their peers who are good readers in reading skills. In addition, from the fourth to the eighth grade, it was observed that there was an improvement in the written products of the students with good reading skills in terms of cohesion items, while there was no significant improvement in the poor readers. Considering the coherence scores, it was seen that poor readers got lower scores than good readers at all grade levels, and students in both groups improved in terms of coherence scores in their written products from fourth to eighth grade. Discussion: It is seen that the problems of students with poor readers in using cohesion tools and their inability to create coherence texts may be due to the inadequacy of the students' language skills, that the students prefer to use short sentences in their writing exercises, they do not need to connect sentences, and the level of use of cohesion tools increases with the progress of their grade levels. It can be said that it is a research that has findings consistent with the findings of the studies in the literature.
Evaluation of soil water losses under irrigation saving techniques in a semi-arid region in Tunisia
Authors: Ammar Haroun Ben , Fridhi Rebh , Kanzari Sabri , Nouna Béchir Ben
Published: May 2023

In arid and semi-arid regions, managing agricultural water for irrigation is essential to cope with water scarcity and maximize crop yields. In this study, an experiment was conducted on a potato crop in the Manouba region (lower valley of Medjerda, Tunisia). The experimental protocol consisted of four water treatments utilizing water-saving irrigation techniques: FI (Full Irrigation 100%): irrigation with 100% of crop water requirements. DI (Irrigation 75%): deficit irrigation with the application of 75% of crop water requirements. PRDRight (Irrigation 50% on the right side): Irrigation by partial root drying. PRDLeft (Irrigation 50% on the left side): Irrigation by partial root drying. Simulation of soil water profiles was carried out by the Hydrus-1D model. The soil hydraulic properties were calibrated according to the experimental conditions using an inverse modeling technique. According to the obtained results, simulated soil water profiles were close to those measured. Indeed, the calculated NRMSE values are low, indicating the reliability of Hydrus-1D as a decision support tool to optimize water irrigation management. These results were then used to investigate the effects of a 2 °C temperature increase on soil water loss, and it was determined that the impact was insignificant.
Berberine Decreases Thrombosis Potential Induced by a High-choline
Diet by Inhibiting CutC Enzyme
Authors: Qu Hua , Zhang Ying , Shi Jun-he , Zhao Yi-han , Gao Jie , Gao Zhu-ye , Shi Da-zhuo
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Gut microbes influence thrombosis potential by generating
trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). However, whether the antithrombotic effect of berberine
is associated with TMAO generation remains unclear.

Objective:

The present study was designed to explore whether berberine decreases the
TMAO-induced thrombosis potential and the possible mechanism underneath it.

Methods:

C57BL/6J female mice under a high-choline diet or standard diet were treated
with/without berberine for 6 weeks. The TMAO level, carotid artery occlusion time following
FeCl3 injury and platelet responsiveness were measured. The binding of berberine
to the CutC enzyme was analysed with molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations
were verified with enzyme activity assays.

Result:

The results showed that berberine increased the carotid artery occlusion time following
FeCl3 injury and decreased the platelet hyperresponsiveness induced by a high--
choline diet, both offset by intraperitoneal injection of TMAO. The effect of berberine on
thrombosis potential was associated with decreasing the generation of TMAO by inhibiting
the CutC enzyme.

Conclusion:

Targeting TMAO generation with berberine might be a promising therapy
for ischaemic cardiac-cerebral vascular diseases.
Association of Blood Lipid Profile Components with White Matter Hyperintensity
Burden in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Li Shanshan , Wang Yunchao , Yu Lulu , Gao Yuan , Yang Yinghao , Zhu Hanghang , An Lu , Yuan Wenxin , Wu Jinghao , Zong Ce , Xu Yuming , Li Yusheng
Published: May 2023

Background:

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) refers to a common cerebrovascular
disease and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) constitute a typical feature of CSVD. However,
there has not been a large number of studies investigating the relationship between lipid profile
components and WMHs.

Methods:

Altogether, 1019 patients with CSVD were enrolled at the First Affiliated Hospital of
Zhengzhou University between April 2016 to December 2021. Baseline data were collected for all
patients, including demographic characteristics and clinical data. WMH volumes were evaluated
by two experienced neurologists using the MRIcro software. Multivariate regression analysis was
used to investigate the relationship among the severity of WMHs, blood lipids and common risk
factors.

Results:

Altogether, 1019 patients with CSVD were enrolled, including 255 in the severe WMH
group and 764 in the mild WMH group. After including age, sex and blood lipids to construct a
multivariate logistic regression equation, we observed that the severity of WMHs was independently
predicted by low-density lipoprotein (LDL), homocysteine level and history of cerebral
infarction.

Conclusion:

We used WMH volume, a highly accurate measure, to assess its relationship with
lipid profiles. The WMH volume increased with a decrease in LDL. This relationship was more
significant, especially among the subgroups of patients aged <70 years and men. Patients with cerebral
infarction and higher homocysteine levels were more likely to have higher WMH volumes.
Our study has provided a reference for clinical diagnosis and therapy, especially for discussing the
role of blood lipid profiles in the pathophysiology of CSVD.
Cogstim: A Shared Decision-making Model to Support Older Adults’
Brain Health
Authors: Ownby Raymond L. , Waldrop Drenna
Published: May 2023

The lack of effective treatments for cognitive decline in older adults has led to an interest
in the possibility that lifestyle interventions can help to prevent changes in mental functioning and
reduce the risk for dementia. Multiple lifestyle factors have been related to risk for decline, and multicomponent
intervention studies suggest that changing older adults’ behaviors can have a positive
impact on their cognition. How to translate these findings into a practical model for clinical use with
older adults, however, is not clear. In this Commentary, we propose a shared decision-making model
to support clinicians’ efforts to promote brain health in older persons. The model organizes risk and
protective factors into three broad groups based on their mechanism of action and provides older persons
with basic information to allow them to make evidence- and preference-based choices in choosing
goals for effective brain health programs. A final component includes basic instruction in behavior
change strategies such as goal setting, self-monitoring, and problem-solving. The implementation
of the model will support older persons’ efforts to develop a personally relevant and effective brainhealthy
lifestyle that may help to reduce their risk for cognitive decline.
MIR-29A-3P, MIR-29C-3P, MIR-146B-5P AND MIR-150-5P, Their
Target Genes and lncrnas in HIV Infection: A Bioinformatic Study
Authors: Tumolo Maria Rosaria , Scoditti Egeria , Guarino Roberto , Grassi Tiziana , Bagordo Francesco , Sabina Saverio
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Increasing evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding
RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as attractive targets in viral infections, including Human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Objective:

To deepen the understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to HIV and provide
potential targets for the future development of molecular therapies for its treatment.

Methods:

Four miRNAs were selected as candidates based on a previous systematic review. A
combination of bioinformatic analyses was performed to identify their target genes, lncRNAs and
biological processes that regulate them.

Results:

In the constructed miRNA–mRNA network, 193 gene targets are identified. These miRNAs
potentially control genes from several important processes, including signal transduction and
cancer. LncRNA-XIST, lncRNA-NEAT1 and lncRNA-HCG18 interact with all four miRNAs.

Conclusions:

This preliminary result forms the basis for improving reliability in future studies to fully
understand the role these molecules and their interactions play in HIV.
WITHDRAWN: In vivo and In vitro Evaluation of Some New Pyrazole Derivatives in Comparison with Celecoxib
Authors: Hassan Entesar A. , Abozied Asmaa M. , El-kerdawy Mohammed M. , Zayed Salem E.
Published: May 2023

Since the authors are not responding to the editor’s requests to fulfill the editorial requirement, therefore, the article has been withdrawn from the journal Current Organic Synthesis.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

BENTHAM SCIENCE DISCLAIMER:

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The Effectiveness and Efficacy of Prescribed Diacetylmorphine (Heroin) in Reducing Drug-related Harm
Authors: Bowles Jeanette , Maghsoudi MGA Nazlee , Young Samantha , Griffiths Sarah , Kolla Gillian
Published: May 2023

Opioid overdoses have dramatically increased throughout the past 20 years.
Overdoses and other harms associated with the use of the unregulated opioid supply
have resulted in a consortium of approaches to reduce drug-related harms, which for
decades has included heroin-assisted treatment, although there remains widespread
reticence to implement this approach in spite of ample evidence to support its
effectiveness. Heroin-assisted treatment is often reserved for persons who have
attempted standard opioid agonist treatments - such as methadone - unsuccessfully in
order to be eligible for heroin-assisted treatment in countries and regions where
available. To date, heroin-assisted treatment is only available in nine countries, mostly
in Europe. Heroin-assisted treatment has higher retention rates than other forms of
opioid agonist treatments, is cost-effective, reduces overdose morbidity and mortality,
and improves public order. Nonetheless, regulatory structures impede its
implementation. The present chapter herein presents further details of the evidence on
heroin-assisted treatment and newer treatment modality iterations, such as injectable
opioid agonist treatment and safe opioid supply programs. 
The Hospitalization Risk Profile of Opioids Users
Authors: Manno Valerio , Maraschini Alice , Conti Susanna , Minelli Giada
Published: May 2023

Drug use-associated health problems are a complex phenomenon changing
over time. Published studies regarding drug-related diseases are mainly based on
emergency rooms data; moreover, most of these studies focus only on diseases related
to injecting drug use (i.e. HIV, B and C Hepatitis).
This chapter presents a study based on an exhaustive nationwide source on
hospitalizations in Italy: the National Hospital Discharge Database (NHDB). The
hospitalization risk profile of opioids user was studied, in terms of hospitalization rates
and observed comorbidities; age and gender differences were taken into account.
The NHDB collects data regarding all patients discharged from any Italian hospital,
recording their demographic and clinical data. Cases analysed in the study: all the
patients diagnosed with conditions related to opioid use during the study period 2005-
2019.
To perform a more detailed analysis, opioids users also using other substances “poly users” were studied too.
Main findings: i) Pathologies with the highest risk of hospitalization among opioid
users: infectious diseases (i.e. infectious intestinal diseases, HIV, viral diseases with
rash, chlamydia and other viral pathologies). ii) Risks are greater in women than in
men. iii) In women, excesses of risk were also observed for Ischaemic heart diseases,
cerebrovascular and respiratory diseases (this excess is also present in men), and
diseases of the digestive and urinary system.
This nationwide study provides relevant information in terms of public health, giving
indications to public services about the burden of diseases to keep under observation
the opioid users.
Development of New Indicators for Assessing the Level and Consequences of Drug Use: Applications and Comparisons
Authors: Fabi Francesco , Rossi Carla
Published: May 2023

The chapter regards new drug use indicators that have been proposed and
applied since 2014 to measure individual levels of harm from drug use also considering
poly-drug use. Such behaviour has been increasing since 2000. Indicators are based on
the frequency of drug use within a specific time period and expert groups’ harm scores
for the various substances used. The indicators allow the estimation of risk profiles for
selected groups of individuals and comparisons over time and between populations.
Recent advances in the classification of drug harms allow refinement of these
indicators, separating harm consequences on self and effects on others.
The new indicators have been applied to many datasets of problematic or adolescent
populations (ESPAD survey for example) allowing comparisons among countries and
populations in the framework of international projects.
Using ESPAD-Italy survey information also related to personal behaviour, it was
shown that high values of poly-drug use indicators are linked to specific behaviours
related to interest in school, relationship with parents and use of leisure time. These
results are consistent with previous analyses based on surveys among high school
students in Italy.
The most recent applications illustrate how the new approach can be used to assess the
link between drug use and personal behaviour among adolescents with school drop-out
in order to design proper prevention policies.
Estimating the Size of the Drug Market – A Critical Review of Approaches Used
Authors: Udrisard Robin , Griffiths Calum , Esseiva Pierre , Zobel Frank , Groshkova Teodora , Noor Andre
Published: May 2023

Both policymakers and the public are interested in the size of the drug
market. However, often both the origin and the veracity of estimates made in this area
are unclear. To help understand this topic, this chapter summarizes the findings from a
literature review of studies that have attempted to produce an estimate of the size of the
drug market. Different methodological approaches and the challenges inherent in
estimating the size of drug markets are discussed. The greatest attention is given to
demand side approaches as they have been most commonly used; however, the supply
side and some more recent innovative approaches are also considered. The chapter
concludes by making some recommendations for future studies intended to improve the
evidence base in this area. 
Drug Crime and Corruption
Authors: Rossi Carla
Published: May 2023

Non-transparency, i.e., widespread corruption in public administrations,
favours organized crime in all its activities.
This chapter shows that this is not only an ethical-philosophical statement but is also
statistically verifiable and it is possible to estimate the damage that the level of
corruption causes to the legal economy and other sectors.
Corruption is measured here through the index elaborated by Transparency
International, whose reliability is verified by comparison with two other indices,
recently proposed at the international level.
The most important result is the significant link between the turnover of “drugs”, in
various countries and in various years, and the corruption index, in the same countries
and in the same years, as verified based on official data and official estimates, showing
quantitatively how the earnings of criminal organizations are largely invested in
corruption.
It then highlights specific aspects that are related to the level of corruption such as the
link, very significant, between transparency and competitiveness, the latter measured
by the World Economic Forum indices, showing how corruption negatively affects the
legal economy of the country and, using additional indicators, other important aspects
as Life Satisfaction, Education etc.
Performance Comparison of Equilibrium Optimization Algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Gravitational Search Algorithm to the Design Optimization of Wind Turbine PMSG
Authors: Prashanth N.A. , Venkatareddy P.
Published: May 2023

This research optimises the design of a permanent magnet synchronous
generator to meet the output power needs of a small direct-drive wind turbine. Extra
care has been taken to reduce the generator's total volume to reduce expenses. The
proposed method aims to reduce the cost of PMSG by reducing its volume. In this
study, the optimal values of PMSG parameters for minimising the overall volume of
the PMSG generator while maintaining its output power at the rated value are
determined. To estimate the optimal values of design parameters, three algorithms have
been considered. Equilibrium Optimization Algorithm (EOA) as the proposed
algorithm, Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA) as the first existing algorithm, and
Particle Swarm Optimization as the second existing algorithm. Comparing the results
of the Equilibrium Optimization algorithm (EOA) with those of the Gravitational
Search Algorithm (GSA) and the Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm (PSO) (PSO).
Simulation results demonstrate that the Equilibrium Optimization algorithm (EOA)
outperforms both the Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA) and the Particle Swarm
Optimization algorithm (PSO). When simulated and statistical results of EOA were
compared to those of other optimization methods, it was found that EOA is more
effective and superior, resulting in the lowest volume value for wind turbine PMSG.
Biologically Active Peptides from Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) Grain
Authors: Guerrero-Becerra Lucia , Tovar-Pérez Erik G.
Published: May 2023

Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is one of the few plant species where both
leaves and grains can be consumed. Among the main species used as producers of
edible grains are Amaranthus hypochondriacus, A. cruentus, A. caudatus, and A.
mantegazzianus. The grains of these species are characterized by their protein content
(13-18%), which has high nutritional value. Additionally, the different protein fractions
of the amaranth grain have been shown to contain sequences of biologically active
peptides (BAPs) with multiple beneficial bio-functionalities for health. Among these,
we can highlight antihypertensive, antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, antithrombotic,
anticholesterolemic and immunomodulatory activities. The aim of this chapter is to
describe the different biological functionalities of BAPs obtained from the proteins of
the amaranth grain, which can be considered a promising natural source of therapeutic
agents with potential use in the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases. 
Biologically Active Peptides from Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.], Foxtail Millet [Setaria italica (L.) P.Beauv.] and Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn] Grains
Authors: Hernández-Vega Josué Daniel , Tovar-Pérez Erik G. , Parola-Contreras Ixchel
Published: May 2023

Millet is a small grain. Africa and Asia are the largest producers and
consumers. Millet is hardier than large grain cereals and could be added to multi-season, multi-crop agriculture. It has nutritional properties such as proteins and
carbohydrates, high content of fiber and unsaturated fats, essential amino acids,
minerals, and vitamins, and it is considered a highly energetic cereal. The health
benefits of whole millet grain consumption are risk reduction of various chronic
diseases. In addition, it is characterized by having short growing seasons; it grows in
poor soils and with efficient use of water. The consumption of this cereal is indicated
for high-performance athletes, pregnant women, people suffering from stress or
weakness, vegetarians and those seeking nutritional balance. Its largest protein
fractions are albumin, prolamins and glutelins. Cereal peptides from their protein
fractions have been found to possess biological activities of high interest to maintain
and improve human health. Peptides from millet grains have been shown to have
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic activities.
Biologically Active Peptides from Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Grain
Authors: Aguirre-Becerra Humberto , Cruz-Moreno Byanka , Arenas-Salazar Ana Patricia , Vázquez-Hernández Ma. Cristina , Feregrino-Pérez Ana Angélica
Published: May 2023

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a pseudocereal with a high
content of amino acids, such as lysine; its lack of gluten makes it an attractive product
with high nutritional potential that could be included in the human diet. It contains
several compounds such as phenolics, carotenoids, organic acids, vitamin E and B complex vitamins, and macro and microelements. Its high protein quality and peptide
content are relevant in F. esculentum. Additionally, biologically active peptides (BAPs)
have been associated with the prevention of some chronic and neurodegenerative
diseases. Consequently, the agro-industrial, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical sectors
have shown a strong interest in this pseudocereal due to its wide range of compounds.
This chapter is a compilation of scientific contributions related to buckwheat
properties, including generalities, nutritional value, bioactive compounds, BAPs, and
finally, perspectives and conclusions. 
Biologically Active Peptides from Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] Grain
Authors: Castro-Jácome Tania P. , Tovar-Pérez Erik G.
Published: May 2023

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is an important staple food crop
grown worldwide, easy to grow and drought tolerant. In recent years, sorghum grain
has been increasingly regarded as a promising feedstock for the production of bioactive
compounds. In particular, its main protein (kafirins fraction) has been used for the
generation of biologically active peptides due to its high hydrophobic amino acid
content and its hypoallergenicity. Several studies have shown that sorghum-derived
peptides have antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities,
among others. These beneficial health effects could be attributed to the fact that in
general, peptides derived from kafirins present glutamic acid and non-polar amino
acids: proline, leucine and alanine. It has been reported that the presence of these
hydrophobic amino acids in peptides facilitates their interaction with free radicals by
neutralizing them, in addition to their low molecular weight and the position of the
amino acids in the peptide sequence. Therefore, sorghum is a cereal with high potential
for the production of biologically active peptides with benefits for human health.
Biologically Active Peptides from Mung Bean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek]
Authors: Escobedo Alejandro , Fonseca-Hernández David , Alfaro-Díaz Arturo , Mojica Luis
Published: May 2023

 Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) is a protein-rich pulse mainly cultivated in
Asia, where its consumption has been associated with positive health outcomes. Mung
bean protein is especially rich in leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine amino
acids and it contains the 8S α-globulin as the major seed storage protein. Protein derived products from pulses, such as protein concentrates, hydrolysates, and purified
peptide fractions are becoming popular functional foods. Mung bean peptides are
enzymatically generated using gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal proteases.
Protein hydrolysates generated by one or a combination of enzymes have been
demonstrated to exert different biological potentials, including antioxidant,
antihypertensive, anticancer, and hypocholesterolemic effects. These properties are
attributed to the amino acid sequences, the type of enzyme used for hydrolysis, and the
purification method. More robust experimental designs must be performed to
understand the role and mechanisms of these bioactive peptides with in vivo studies and
clinical trials. Furthermore, there is a lack of information related to the incorporation of
bioactive peptides into a food matrix while preserving their bioactivity. This chapter
provides an overview of the central aspects of mung bean physical structure and
chemical composition, protein characteristics, enzymatic production, and the biological
potential of mung bean protein hydrolysates and peptides. 