bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network pharmacology and molecular docking-based investigation on the mechanisms of action of Coptidis Rhizoma in the treatment of gastric precancerous lesions
Authors: Ye Xuxing , Xu Bin , Wang Xiaobo , Yu Guoyou , Ma Shuangshuang
Published: December 2022

Background:Gastric precancerous lesions are a critical stage in the development of gastric cancer or gastric adenocarcinoma, and their outcome plays an important role in the malignant progression of gastric cancer. Coptidis Rhizoma has a good effect on Gastric precancerous lesions. However, its specific mechanism of action remains incompletely elucidated.Methods:A network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were used to explore the active ingredients and molecular mechanism of Coptidis Rhizoma in treating gastric precancerous lesions. The active compounds of Coptidis Rhizoma and their potential gastric precancerous lesions related targets were obtained from TCMSP, GeneCards, and OMIM databases. An interaction network based on protein-protein interactions (PPIs) was constructed to visualize the interactions between hub genes. Analysis of GO enrichment and KEGG pathway were conducted using the DAVID database. An investigation of interactions between active compounds and potential targets was carried out by molecular docking.Results:A total of 11 active compounds and 95 anti gastric precancerous lesions targets of Coptidis Rhizoma were screened for analysis. GO enrichment analysis showed that the mechanism of Coptidis Rhizoma acting on precancerous gastric lesions involved in gene expression regulation and apoptosis regulation. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that Coptidis Rhizoma against precancerous gastric lesions involving the MAPKsignalling pathway and PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Molecular docking simulations indicated potential interactions between these compounds (quercetin, palmatine, berberine, berberrubine)and targets (EGFR, AKT1, MYC, TP53)involved in anti gastric precancerous lesions activity.conclusion:Bioactive compounds in Coptidis Rhizoma have the potential to preventatrophy and intestinal metaplasia.These compounds function by regulating the proteins implicated in MAPK and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways that are crucial in gastric epithelial cell differentiation, proliferation and maturation.
Translocation of intestinal peptidoglycan moieties modulates the early stages of arthritis.
Authors: Poline Julie , Wheeler Richard , Thomas Marion , Berrebi Dominique , Bonacorsi Stephane , Bueno Benjamin , Dingulu Glory , Ducrocq Camille , Postal Barbara , Ribeiro Agnès , Roy Maryline , Viennois Emilie , Hugot Jean-Pierre , Boneca Ivo G , Meinzer Ulrich
Published: December 2022

Intestinal barrier dysfunction may contribute to the development of chronic arthritis, but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. We took advantage of induced and spontaneous models of murine arthritis to study how translocation of peptidoglycan (PG) and its fractions impact the course of chronic arthritis. We experimentally increased the translocation of intestinal bacterial cell envelope moieties using oral gavage of muramyldipeptide (MDP) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as well as genetic (deletion of intestinal Hnf-4a) and nutritional (food additive carrageenan) perturbations of intestinal barrier function. Oral gavage with MDP and LPS increased arthritis without altering the gut barrier integrity. Translocated PG from the gut to blood and spleen was correlated with the severity of arthritis. Carrageenan treatment increased translocation of PG into the joints, and worsening of arthritis. Interestingly, MDP, LPS and dietary factors worsened the course of arthritis only when administered before, but not after, the onset of arthritis. In human patients, MDP was more abundant in the synovial fluids of children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis than in those of children with transient forms of arthritis. In conclusion, there is a window during the early stages of arthritis, when translocation of gut bacterial components can modulate the progression of arthritis.
Propofol alleviates PTSD-like behavioral deficits by downregulating hippocampal Arc associated with GABAergic activation in basolateral amygdala in rats
Authors: Yu Zhenhua , Huang Yong , Gu Lingling , Zhang Cheng , Huo Yan , Zhao Zheng , Wu Lei , Ma Mingliang
Published: December 2022

Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is one of the most commonly used anesthetics in clinical surgery. However, its role and relevant mechanisms in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like behavioral deficits remain largely unknown. In this study, the PTSD-like phenotype was constructed in rats using the modified single prolonged stress (MSPS) procedure. Propofol and GABAergic system antagonist bicuculline alone or combined administration were performed in rats after MSPS. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with different dosages of BDNF (1, 2, 5, 7 and 10 ng/ml), followed by treated with 25 µmol propofol. We first observed that propofol inhibited the protein level of activity regulated cytoskeleton protein (Arc) in the hippocampus of rats exposed to the MSPS procedure and BDNF-induced Arc upregulation in SH-SY5Y cells. Further analysis showed that administration of propofol alleviated fear memory formation in rats exposed to the MSPS procedure using open field, light dark box and contextual fear conditioning tests, accompanied with increased neurons cells in the hippocampal CA3 region by Nissl staining. Finally, administration of bicuculline to the basolateral amygdala (BLA) can significantly reverse the effect of propofol on the Arc expression and behavioral improvement of the modeling rats. In conclusions, our data suggested that propofol could alleviates fear memory formation in rats underwent MSPS by inhibiting Arc expression in the hippocampus in association with GABAergic activation in the basolateral amygdala GABAergic system.
Prevalence and factors associated with sputum smear non-conversion after two months of tuberculosis treatment among smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Rwanda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gatete Gaetan , Njunwa Kato J , Migambi Patrick , Ntaganira Joseph , Ndagijimana Albert
Published: December 2022

Background
Non-conversion of sputum smear prolongs the infectivity of pulmonary tuberculosis patients and has been associated with unfavorable tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes. Nevertheless, there is a lack of evidence on predictors of sputum smear non-conversion among smear-positive PTB (SPPTB) patients in Rwanda. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors associated with sputum smear non-conversion after two months of treatment among SPPTB patients in Rwanda.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among SPPTB patients registered in the national electronic TB reporting system by all health facilities countrywide (Rwanda) from July 2019 to June 2021. The patients had completed the first two months of anti-TB treatment and with smear results at the end of the second month of treatment. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done to determine the factors associated with sputum smear non-conversion. Odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-value were reported.
Results
This study included 7,211 patients. Of them, 632 (9%) patients had sputum smear non-conversion at the end of the second month of treatment. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age groups of 20–39 years (AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.04–2.86) and 40–59 years (AOR:2, 95% CI: 1.18–3.3 ), history of first-line TB treatment failure (AOR = 2, 95% CI: 1.1–3.6), follow-up by community health workers (AOR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.04–1.5), BMI < 18.5 at TB treatment initiation (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.25–1.8), and living in Northern Province of Rwanda (AOR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.05-2.0), were found significantly associated with sputum smear non-conversion after two months of treatment.
Conclusion
Sputum smear non-conversion among SPPTB patients remains low in Rwanda compared to countries of similar health care setting. Nevertheless, as the WHO considers sputum conversion as a useful indicator in monitoring the performance of TB control programs, rigorous follow-up of patients with identified risk factors for non-conversion is recommended.
Quantifying nitrogen-fixation in Acer macrophyllum canopy bryophytes in the Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Bidwell Amanda L. , Tobin Patrick C. , DeLuca Thomas H.
Published: December 2022

Purpose : Old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest host a variety of epiphytes on their branches and stem. Given the common and often large epiphytic biomass associated with Acer macrophyllum (Pursh ) in this region, we evaluated how seasonal weather changes and urbanization (metal and nitrogen deposition), affect canopy epiphytic N2 fixation in the Hoh Rainforest of the Olympic Peninsula and in urban parks and forests in Seattle.
Methods : We collected Isothecium stoloniferum (Brid.) samples from both the Hoh Rainforest and Seattle at four periods from April 2016 through January 2017. Moss-associated N2 fixation rates were measured in the laboratory using the acetylene reduction assay and trace metal concentrations in the moss were analyzed using NO3 + H2O2 digestion.
Results : We found levels of N2 fixation were highest during the spring sampling period. Elevated levels of heavy metals were observed in I. stoloniferum samples collected in the urban canopies in Seattle, suggesting N2 fixation is sensitive to the bioaccumulation of heavy metals. In A. macrophyllum canopies, I. stoloniferum was found to yield 1.13 kg N ha-1 yr-1 in the Hoh Rainforest and only 0.009 kg N ha-1 yr-1 in Seattle.
Conclusions : These results highlight a rarely explored source of biological N2-fixation in temperate rainforests and suggest that epiphytic N2-fixation may contribute bio-available nitrogen in secondary successional A. macrophyllum stands.
Inhibitory Potency of UDA Lectin on Neovascularization: A Biomolecule for Carbohydrate-Mediated Targeting of Angiogenesis
Authors: Samadian Esmaeil , Colagar Abasalt Hosseinzadeh , Safarzad Mahdieh , Asadi Jahanbakhsh , Mansouri Kamran
Published: December 2022

Background
Cellular vascularization processes including proliferation, migration, and tube formation are selectively the purpose of current angiogenic inhibitors. In this study, we investigated the impact of Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) on the cellular vascularization processes events.
Methods and Results
Different concentrations of UDA were treated on various normal (HUVEC, MCF-10A and HDF from human and L-929 from mouse) and cancer (A431 and U87 from human and 4T1 from mouse) cell lines at different times. The MTT, cell migration assay, differentiation of endothelial cells, and expression of VEGF-A/VEGF-R2 and integrin α2 were evaluated. The MTT results demonstrated that UDA was non-toxic on normal cells whereas this lectin was able to prevent the growth of neoplastic cells. The migratory capacity of HUVECs and U87 Glioblastoma cells was inhibited by UDA in wound repair model. This lectin was a preventive agent for HUVECs-induced vessel sprouting in Collagen-cytodex matrix. Also, down-regulation of the VEGF-integrin cross-talk in HUVECs under the UDA treatment confirmed the anti-angiogenic activity of this molecule.
Conclusions
Based on our findings, UDA may have an effect on the proliferation of cancer cells and vascularization events with minimal toxicity on normal cells through binding glyco-conjugates which bear GlcNAc/Man oligomer like EGFR. This is a blue clue for the angiogenesis-related therapeutic importance of UDA.
The Impact of Sarcopenia on Overall Survival in Patients with Pan-RAS Wild-type Colorectal Liver Metastasis Receiving Hepatectomy
Authors: Yang Yao-Ren , Shi Chung-Sheng , Chang Sheng-Wei , Wu Yu-Ying , Su Yu-Li , Lin Geng-ping , Kuan Feng-Che
Published: December 2022

Background
Sarcopenia has been associated with conventional chemotherapy-related toxicity, postoperative complications and poor overall survival in patients with genotype-unselected metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic implications of sarcopenia and its change after perioperative cetuximab plus doublet chemotherapy and hepatectomy in patients with RAS wild-type colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).
Methods
Patients with CRLM from 2007 to 2018 in Chang Gung Research Database were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline characteristics as well as skeletal muscle index (SMI) at baseline and dynamic changes after interventions were collected. A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the effect of each parameter on overall survival (OS), and the Kaplan-Meier method was used to establish survival curves. A two-sided p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significance.
Results
Of 214 RAS wild-type mCRC patients who received both cetuximab and doublet chemotherapy, 77 who received upfront or subsequent hepatectomy were included in this study. The median follow-up time was 2.3 years. The rate of sarcopenia was higher in the patients who received neoadjuvant cetuximab-containing regimens than in those who received upfront hepatectomy (95% versus 63%, p = 0.001). Increased SMI after perioperative systemic therapy remained independently associated with better OS in multivariate analysis [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.88/10% increase, p = 0.013). The patients with sarcopenia had a trend of worse OS than those without sarcopenia (median OS: 4.5 versus 3.6 years, log-rank p = 0.282).
Conclusions
Improvement in sarcopenia ([SMI after intervention – initial SMI]/initial SMI x 100%) is an important prognostic factor for OS. Future research is warranted to investigate direct interventions for sarcopenia and the impact on OS.
The risk of being bitten by a dog is higher on hot, sunny, and smoggy days
Authors: Dey Tanujit , Zanobetti Antonella , Linnman Clas
Published: December 2022

Humans commit more violent crimes when temperature and air pollution is higher. Here, we investigate if also the day-to-day rates of dogs biting humans is influenced by environmental factors. 69,525 reports of dogs biting humans, sourced from public records on animal control requests and from ER records, were analyzed. The impact of temperature and air pollutants were evaluated with a zero-inflated Poisson generalized additive model, while controlling for regional and calendar effects. Exposure-response curves were used to assess the association between outcome and major exposure variables. We find that the rates of dogs biting humans increases with increasing temperature and ozone, but not PM2.5 exposure. We also observed that higher UV irradiation levels were related to higher rats of dog bites. We conclude that dogs, or the interactions between humans and dogs, are more hostile on hot, sunny, and smoggy days, indicating that the societal burden of extreme heat and air pollution also includes the costs of animal aggression.
Regular bi-interpretability of Chevalley groups over local rings
Authors: Bunina Elena
Published: December 2022

In this paper we prove that if $G(R)=G_\pi (\Phi,R)$ $(E(R)=E_{\pi}(\Phi, R))$ is an (elementary) Chevalley group of rank $> 1$, $R$ is a local ring (with $\frac{1}{2}$ for the root systems ${\mathbf A}_2, {\mathbf B}_l, {\mathbf C}_l, {\mathbf F}_4, {\mathbf G}_2$ and with $\frac{1}{3}$ for ${\mathbf G}_{2})$, then the group $G(R)$ (or $(E(R)$) is regularly bi-interpretable with the ring~$R$.As a consequence of this theorem, we show that the class of all Chevalley groups over local rings (with the listed restrictions) is elementary definable, i.\,e., if for an arbitrary group~$H$ we have $H\equiv G_\pi(\Phi, R)$, than there exists a ring $R'\equiv R$ such that $H\cong G_\pi(\Phi,R')$.
KindnessbyPost: An Economic and Clinical Evaluation of a Participatory Public Mental Health Intervention
Authors: Novere Marie Le , Clarke Caroline S , Jones Rebecca , Warran Katey , Lloyd-Evans Brynmor , Rains Luke Sheridan
Published: December 2022

Background
#KindnessbyPost (KbP) is a “national kindness exchange”. Participants send and receive a card by post to different, unknown people containing messages of good will. Previous evidence suggests participation in KbP may improve loneliness and wellbeing. We evaluated the outcomes and associated costs of KbP and explored the feasibility of collecting health economic measures for future research.
Methods
We used a pre-post, observational study design. Participants in two KbP exchanges in 2021 were invited to complete an online questionnaire. It included self-reported measures of psychological wellbeing and loneliness, capability, and healthcare service use. Data were collected at three time-points: exchange start (baseline), exchange-end (2 weeks), and 3-months post-exchange. Additional cost data were obtained from the KbP programme organisers.
Results
Across exchanges, baseline data were obtained for 1,285 participants (from 1,142 individuals). In total, 623 (48%) of participants were followed up at exchange-end, and 414 (32%) at 3-months. 70% of participants were aged between 31 and 60 (n = 789). 94% of participants were female (1,075) and 95% of white ethnicity (1,078). Compared to baseline, loneliness and wellbeing improved at exchange end (‑0.21, 95% CI: -0.29 to -0.12; 0.68, 0.47 to 0.88 respectively) and at 3 months follow up (-0.40, -0.50 to -0.30; 1.01, 0.77 to 1.25 respectively). We observed no difference from baseline in capability at both follow up points (mean (SD) at baseline: 0.52(0.22); exchange-end: 0.53(0.22); 3-months: 0.53(0.22)). The average cost of delivering the intervention was £0.67–0.87 per participant.
Conclusions
We observed a small, sustained improvement to people’s wellbeing and loneliness following participation in a KbP exchange. Given the study design, causal attribution to KbP is uncertain. However, our results are consistent with previous evaluations and offer preliminary evidence that KbP may be an effective mental wellbeing intervention. Given its cheap cost (estimated at £0.67-£0.87 per participant) and highly scalable design, KbP could be an effective and cost-effective intervention for improving public mental health, which warrants definitive evaluation of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in future. Our study also demonstrates the feasibility of collecting the wellbeing and health economic outcome measures needed for this research.
Isolation and Identification of Edwardsiella Tarda from Fish in Haramaya Lake, East Hararghe Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Abdurezak Nuredin , Yusuf Balisa , Lulseged Leykun
Published: December 2022

Background
Edwardsiellosis is a serious systemic bacterial disease of Edwardsiella tarda which is known for causing diseases in humans, reptiles, amphibians, marine mammals and other warm-blooded animals. E. tarda is the most important diseases causing bacteria that leade to severe economic losses in fish farms of many countries due to its admirable effects on a variety of fish taxa including carp, tilapia, eel, catfish, mullet, salmon, trout and flounder. This study aimed on isolation and identification of E. tarda from the fishes (Catfish and Tilapia) of Lake Haramaya:
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was conducted from December 2021 to May 2022 to estimate the occurrence and distribution of Edwardsiella tarda from the kidney, spleen, liver and intestine of apparently healthy fish in the Lake Haramaya, Eastern Ethiopia. From a total 384 of swab and tissue samples were randomly taken from the kidney, liver, spleen and intestine of 96 apparently healthy fish (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) originating from Lake Haramaya, 18 showing similar colony and biochemical characteristics to E. tarda were isolated and identified.
Results
Distribution of E. tarda infection among the four organs examined indicated that E. tarda was isolated most frequently from intestine 10 (10.4%) followed by liver 4 (4.2%) then kidney 2 (2.1%) and spleen 2 (2.1%) with statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) among organs. E. tarda was isolated more frequently from males 12 (26.7%) than females 6 (11.8%) and differences in the occurrence of E. tarda infection with respect to sex was not significant (P > 0.05) indicating that both sexes are equally susceptible. Concerning fish species E. tarda is more frequently isolated from Catfish than tilapia with no significant difference (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
The recovery of E. tarda from Lake Haramaya, which is potentially pathogenic to humans, from the organs and alimentary tracts of fish suggests that fish either improperly handled, undercooked or consumed raw may cause Edwardsiellosis in susceptible individuals and potential threat to both fishery sector/aquaculture. There is limited knowledge of E. tarda infection in fish and humans in the area and hence further awareness to have information on the agent is forwarded.
A g-C3N4/PVDF-based composite polymer electrolytes for sodium-ion battery
Authors: Shu Kewei , Zhou Jiazhen , Wu Xiaojing , Liu Xuan , Sun Liyu , Wang Yu , Tian Siyu , Niu Huizhu , Duan Yihao , Hu Guangyu , Wang Haihua
Published: December 2022

PVDF based polymer solid electrolytes are one of the most promising choices for all-solid-state sodium ion batteries and sodium metal batteries. However, neat polymer solid electrolytes suffered from relatively low ionic conductivity at room temperature, narrow electrochemical stability window. In this work, g-C3N4 nanosheets are introduced as a novel nanofiller for PVDF-HFP based composite solid polymer electrolytes. The g-C3N4 filler can engineer the PVDF-HFP structure, resulting in reduced decreased crystallinity. Additionally, the surface atoms of the g-C3N4 interact with groups in the sodium salt, promoting further dissociation of the sodium salt. The incorporation of g-C3N4 improves the electrical properties (ionic conductivity, Na+ transference number and electrochemical window), mechanical properties and thermal stability of the composite electrolyte. The composite electrolyte shows a low Na deposition/dissolution overpotential of about 100 mV at a current density of 1 mA cm− 2 after 160 cycles. The sodium metal battery with g-C3N4 composite electrolyte and NVP cathode exhibits lower polarization voltage (90 mV), and stable reversible capacity of 93 mAh g− 1 after 200 cycles at 1C.
An efficient scientific workflow scheduling on multi-cloud environment using adaptive golden eagle optimization
Authors: S Immaculate Shyla , T Beula Bell , C Jaspin Jeba Sheela
Published: December 2022

Cloud computing is a model for new technologies and the ability to deliver consistent cloud services. One of the essential features of cloud computing is the provision of "unlimited" computing resources to users on demand. However, single cloud-holding resources are generally limited and may not be able to cope with the sudden surge in user needs. So, the multi-cloud concept is introduced to support resource sharing between the clouds. These days, providing assets and administrations from multiple clouds is becoming an undeniably inspiring worldview. Traditional research in scheduling in the cloud is aimed at improving the cost or makespan. Nevertheless, the reliability of work process scheduling is a fundamental concern and, surprisingly, the main measure of QoS. Therefore, in this paper, multi-objective scheduling for a logical work process in a multi-cloud environment is proposed, the point of which is to control the work process while at the same time cost and makespan while fulfilling the requirement of reliability. To achieve this concept adaptive golden eagle optimization (AGEO) algorithm is designed. The validation of the proposed algorithm takes solution encoding, fitness calculation, and updating functions. For experimental analysis, different workflow model is used and performance is evaluated using different metrics.
Performance, characteristics, and microscopy of fabricated nanozirconia on the composite cement
Authors: Heikal Mohamed , Mohamed Sahar
Published: December 2022

This investigation aimed to study the influence of prepared nanozirconia particles (NZ) on the characteristics, microscopy, and photocatalytic efficiency of composite cement. The average crystallite size of prepared NZ is ≈ 7-15nm. Surface area, pore volume, and pore radius recorded using BET isotherm are 88.01m2/g, 0.12cm3/g, and 4.92nm respectively. The combined water (Wn) and gel/space ratio (X) increased upto 1.5% NZ, these values increased upto 3months than the neat paste. Compressive strength (CS), and bulk density (BD) increased upto 0.25% NZ, whereas the total porosity represented the lower values. Increasing the content of NZ to 0.50-1.00%, the CS decreased, but it nevertheless larger than neat-OPC paste. The correlation results between CS and X values of mix NZ1 represented the higher values than the data of other NZ-composite- pastes. Cement containing 1.5% NZ achieved the highest dye degradation% at 3,7, 28, 90days were 82.34%, 84.72%, 88.58%, 97.22% after 300min of UV-irradiation the photocatalytic degradation.
Unique features of the arterial Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Bell Batia , Anzi Shira , Sasson Esther , Ben-Zvi Ayal
Published: December 2022

CNS vasculature differs from vascular networks of peripheral organs by its ability to tightly control selective material exchange across capillary barriers. Capillary permeability is mostly defined by unique cellular components of the endothelium. While capillaries are extensively investigated, the barrier properties of larger vessels are understudied. Here, we investigate barrier properties of CNS arterial walls. Using tracer challenges and various imaging modalities, we discovered that at the mouse cortex, the arterial barrier does not reside at the classical level of the endothelium. The arterial wall’s unique permeability acts bi-directionally; CSF substances travel along the glymphatic path and can penetrate from the peri-vascular space through arteriolar walls towards the lumen. We found that caveolae vesicles in arteriole endothelial and smooth-muscle cells are functional transcytosis machinery components, and that a similar mechanism is evident in the human brain. Our discoveries highlight vascular heterogeneity investigations as a potent approach to uncover new barrier mechanisms.
FOXK1 regulates malignant progression and radiosensitivity through direct transcriptional activation of CDC25A and CDK4 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Xiaoxu , Lu Juntao , Liu Lei , Li Fei , Xu Tongxin , Chen Liying , Yan Zhaoyang , Li Yan , Guo Wei
Published: December 2022

The transcription factor forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) has recently been recognized to mediate a wide range of biological progresses, including cell proliferation, differentiation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, DNA damage, and tumorigenesis. However, the role and molecular mechanisms of FOXK1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) progression and in the response to ionizing radiation (IR) have not been well characterized. In this study, we investigated the expression level, clinical significance, biological role, and molecular mechanism of FOXK1 in ESCC. High expression level of FOXK1 was observed in ESCC cell lines and tissues, which was correlated with TNM stage, invasion depth, and lymph node metastasis. In addition, overexpression of FOXK1 promoted ESCC cells proliferation, migration, and invasion, whereas silencing FOXK1 showed the opposite effect. Moreover, Silencing FOXK1 enhanced radiosensitivity by inhibiting DNA damage repair, inducing G1 arrest and apoptosis. Further studies revealed that FOXK1 activated transcription of CDC25A and CDK4 in ESCC cells by directly binding to their promoter regions. Furthermore, knockdown of CDC25A or CDK4 reversed those biological processes mediated by overexpression of FOXK1. Collectively, FOXK1, as well as its downstream target genes CDC25A and CDK4, may be potential therapeutic and radiosensitizing targets for ESCC.
Bioanalytical validated Spectrofluorimetric Method for the Determination of Prucalopride succinate in Human Urine Samples and Its Greenness Evaluation
Authors: Saad Marwa T. , Zaazaa Hala E. , Fattah Taghreed A. , Boltia Shereen A.
Published: December 2022

An economical & eco-friendly spectrofluorometric technique has been developed for the determination of prucalopride succinate (PRU) in human urine on the basis of drug’s native fluorescence. The type of solvent and the wavelengths of excitation and emission have been carefully selected for optimal experimental conditions. In deionized water, the fluorescence intensity was measured at λ emission 362 nm upon excitation at 310 nm. This bio-validated method was carried out using 30uL urine without carrying out any preliminary steps. The calibration curve for PRU shows a linear relationship in a concentration range of 0.75–5.5µg/mL. The validation of this proposed technique obeys EMA Guidelines for validating bioanalytical methods and the greenness assessment was evaluated according to the Analytical GAPI approach.
Money laundering and illegal trafficking of waste: evidence from the Italian provinces
Authors: MIGHELI Matteo , OLIVA Maria
Published: December 2022

Money laundering and waste-related crimes are widely studied by the literature. However, few attention has been paid to the connection between the latter and the former. Using Italian data at provincial level, the analysis presented here shows that also waste-related crimes generate illegal proceeds that increase the flows of dirty money that needs laundering. Moreover, evidence about cross-provincial spillovers is provided. Fighting money laundering and following dirty money (perhaps also internationally) may help decreasing illegal waste disposals and traffics, decreasing the yields generated by these crimes.
JEL Codes: K32, Q53
Team training with Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality – benefits and limitations in educational practice illustrated by the example of two paramedic classes
Authors: Elsenbast Christian , Dahlmann Philipp , Schnier Dominik Schnier
Published: December 2022

Background
Case simulations as an imitation of clinical experience are an accepted learning method in health professions. This is also the case in Emergency Medical Services. In the field of case simulations, a strong trend toward the use of more technology has been observed for years, such as the use of Extended Reality. This paper analyzes specific media perception factors and the motivation of paramedic trainees in Extended Reality. It also analyzes the differences in media perception and motivation resulting from the inclusion of a haptic patient manikin in the Extended Reality and its meaning for educational practice.
Methods
The participants were assigned to either the experimental group (Mixed Reality with manikin) or the comparison group (Virtual Reality without manikin) on a class-by-class basis. After an Extended Reality case simulation, a survey was performed using a questionnaire to elicit side effects, sense of presence, motivation, and sociodemographic variables. After evaluating the sociodemographic data, parametric tests were used for mean comparison and correlation analysis.
Results
20 participants were evaluated in the experimental group and 16 in the comparison group. In both groups, high motivation, an acceptable sense of presence, and advanced usability were observed. Sickness symptoms were present. In both groups, high correlation between the two motivation dimensions Identified Regulation and Intrinsic Regulation with Spatial Presence and Usability was found. Spatial Presence and Usability were also significantly correlated in both groups. A significant mean score difference was found for Amotivation between the experimental group (mean = 1.56/6, SD = 1.25) and the comparison group (mean = 2.36/6, SD = 1.14).
Discussion
VR and MR are a promising learning method if implemented in a planned manner by a competent simulation crew. This can be concluded from the participants’ high level of self-regulated motivation as well as from the identified media perception factors. We recommend that the simulation crew use setup checklists, but also a competence-oriented approach, considering fiction contract and structured debriefing. Use of wireless head-mounted-displays and data-gloves still need to be done.
Biogeophysical Context and Land Use and Coverage – Human Interventions in the Sado Estuarine Municipalities (Portugal)
Authors: Alves Neise Mare Souza , Silva Débora Barbosa da , Inácio Miguel , Cunha Ana Graça , Pimentel Nuno , Freitas Maria da Conceição
Published: December 2022

Anthropogenic modifications are changes in the landscape resulting from interventions on natural elements, usually related to the types of land use and coverage. This article analyzes the main biophysical components of the estuarine municipalities of the Sado River - emphasizing geology, geomorphology and anthropogenic derivations of the landscape. The systemic principles are the theoretical-methodological support of this integrated analysis. Cartographic materials, remote sensing techniques, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and fieldwork were used. The components most impacted by anthropogenic interventions are: hydrography - with dams in river channels, which alter the flow dynamics and hydrosedimentary processes, favoring the occurrence of erosion in the tidal plain and siltation in the estuary, which requires dredging to maintain activity in the port of Setúbal; vegetation, soils, geology and geomorphology - with mining, which directly implies the suppression of vegetation and soils, the dismantling of relief and rocks, reduces biodiversity, characterizes the landscape, and is a potential risk of soil and water contamination. In the tidal plain originally colonized by salt marshes, there are significant economic activities: rice farming, salt culture, aquaculture and industrial area. Touristic developments are installed on the recent features of the coastal plain of the Tróia peninsula. These anthropogenic derivations affect the systemic relationships of natural elements and cause changes in the landscape. This integrated analysis can contribute to better planning and management of activities with environmental and social sustainability for the municipalities in the study area.
Porous hollow cobalt-based oxides encapsulated with bimetallic PdAu Nanoparticles of electrochemical biosensor for highly sensitive pesticides detection
Authors: Zhao Yaxu , Liang Lijun , Guo Wei , Lu Xiong , Zhao Congyi , Gao Faming
Published: December 2022

Efficient and portable electrochemical biosensors are received to evaluation of pesticides in the environment, which can make great significance for food safety. In this study, the Co-based oxides with a kind of hierarchical porous hollow and nanocages were constructed, in which the materials (Co3O4-NC) were encapsulated with PdAu Nanoparticles (NPs). Due to the unique porous structure, the changeable valence state of cobalt and the synergistic effect of bimetallic PdAu NPs, PdAu@Co3O4-NC possessed excellent electron pathways, and showed more exposed active sites. Accordingly, the porous Co-based oxides have been applied to construct an activeacetylcholinesterase (AChE) electrochemical biosensor, which showed good performance for organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) detection. The optimum AChE-CS/PdAu@Co3O4-NC/GCE platform allows to exhibit highly sensitive determination of omethoate and chlorpyrifos, with the relative low detection limit of 6.125 × 10-15 M and 5.10 × 10-13 M, respectively. And a wide linear range of 6.125 × 10−15 ~ 6.125 × 10−6 M and 5.10 × 10−13 ~ 5.10 × 10−6 M for these two pesticides were also achieved. Therefore, the PdAu@Co3O4-NC may represent a powerful tool for ultrasensitive sensing of (OPs), and have great potential application.
Clonorchis sinensis granulin promotes malignant transformation of human biliary epithelial cells by interacting with M2 macrophages via regulating STAT3 phosphorylation and MEK/ERK pathway
Authors: He Qing , Pan Xiaowen , Yin Yingxuan , Xu Anyuan , Wu Yinjuan , Li Xuerong , Yi Xueqing
Published: December 2022

Objective
Clonorchis sinensisgranulin (CsGRN) is a multifunctional growth factor that can promote the progression of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Here, we investigated the effect of CsGRN on human biliary epithelial cells (HIBECs) malignant transformation and its possible underlying mechanism.
Methods
HIBECs were treated with 10μg/ml of CsGRN recombinant proteins and 20 μg CsGRN recombinant plasmid was intravenously injected into each BALB/c wild-type mice. EdU-488 staining, colony formation assay, wound-healing assay, transwell assay, Western-blot, q-PCR, Immunohistochemistry staining, Immunofluorescence, H&E staining. flow cytometry and ELISA assay were carried out.
Results
CsGRN promoted excessive hyperplasia and abnormal metastasis of HIBECs by enhanced secretion of hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines as well as biliary injuries. In addition, CsGRN induced the M2-type polarization in macrophages both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, high expression of IL-6 was observed in the CsGRN treated co-cultured mediums, which activated the phosphorylation of STAT3, JAK2, MEK and ERK.
Conclusion
CsGRN induced the M2-type polarization of macrophages which further mediate the inflammation and malignant transformation of HIBECs by mediating the interactions between HIBECs and macrophages via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 and MEK/ERK pathways.
XFEM implementation procedure for models involving contribution on interfaces
Authors: Estévez Peregrina Quintela , Rial Teresa Cao , González Carlos Moreno
Published: December 2022

Models involving interfaces with discontinuities or even singularities of some fieldsacross them are very frequent in real life problems modelling. The use of the eXtendedFinite Element Method (XFEM) instead of the traditional FEM has two advantages: themesh of the domain can be independent of the interface position, and it allows toenrich an area with specific shape functions fitted to singularities of the expectedsolution. Nevertheless, a critical point of its implementation is the different kind (andnumber) of degrees of freedom on each node. In this paper we present a detaileddescription of XFEM implementation, with special emphasis on the terms that involveintegration over interfaces. The methodology is presented in a general context, and asan example, we will apply it to a problem of solids mechanics. In particular, we willcontextualize the procedure on a Rayleigh waves propagation problem in a crackedstructure considering a Signorini contact condition on the crack sides.
Can deadwood be preferred to soil? Vascular plants on decaying logs in different forest types in Central Europe.
Authors: Unar Pavel , Daněk Pavel , Adam Dušan , Paločková Lenka , Holík Jan
Published: December 2022

Deadwood is known to be an irreplaceable substrate for various groups of organisms but its importance for vascular plants is still unclear. To examine which deadwood characteristics promote its colonization by vascular plants and whether species can prefer this substrate to mineral soil (or vice versa), we used regression modelling and ordination methods to analyse an extensive data set of vegetation records from more than 1800 pieces of lying deadwood and 200 control plots on soil. Data were collected in four old-growth forest sites ranging from lowland alluvial to mountain spruce forests. Colonization of deadwood of all decay classes, including freshly fallen logs, was frequent at all study sites. The density of colonizers differed between deadwood species, increased with deadwood decomposition stage and was higher when deadwood was exposed to light. On average, about 40% of observed species showed a preference for either deadwood or soil substrate with preference for soil usually being more common. Species that preferred deadwood to soil were typically early successional species, while those with preference for soil were often hygrophytes or typical understorey species. Most species responded consistently to substrate across multiple sites. With its unique microsite conditions and specific composition of plant colonizers, we highlight the importance of deadwood for herb layer species composition. Deadwood retention should be encouraged not only in protected but also in commercial forests.
Captivity restructures the gut microbiota of François’ langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi)
Authors: Mo Fengxiang , Li Yihui , Liu Zheng , Zheng Jingjin , Nong Dengpan , Liang Jipeng , Li Youbang , Huang Zhonghao
Published: December 2022

Data on gut microbiota of captive and wild animals can provide physiological and ecological basis for breeding and population rejuvenation of endangered species. Different diets lead to changes in the gut microbiota composition of animals. In this study, we examine the difference in the gut microbiota composition between the captive and wild Francois’ langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi), using 16S rRNA sequencing technology. The results showed that the composition of gut microbiota of captive langurs and wild langurs were characterized by Firmicutes (the captive langurs = 51.93% ± 10.07%; the wild langurs = 76.15% ± 8.37%) and Bacteroidetes (the captive langurs = 32.43% ± 10.00%; the wild langurs = 4.82% ± 1.41%) at the phylum level and were featured by Oscillospiraceae (the captive langurs = 15.80% ± 5.19%; the wild langurs = 30.21% ± 4.87%) at the family level. The alpha diversity of gut microbiota in captive langurs were higher than those in wild group, including Shannon index (4.45 ± 0.33 VS 3.98 ± 0.19, P < 0.001) and invSimpson index (35.11 ± 15.63 VS 19.02 ± 4.87, P < 0.001) but excluding Ace index (560.56 ± 62.44 VS 540.56 ± 39.72, P = 0.162;) and Chao index (570.86 ± 66.38 VS 544.78 ± 39.52, P = 0.141). PCoA result showed that there were significant differences in the composition of gut microbiota between captive and wild langurs at both phylum and family level (weight UniFrac algorithm, phylum level: R2 = 0.748, P = 0.001, family level: R2 = 0.685, P = 0.001). Captive langurs’ relative abundance of Firmicutes (51.93% ± 10.07%) was lower than that of wild langurs’ (76.15% ± 8.37%), and the relative abundance of Bacteroides (32.43% ± 10.00%) was higher than that of wild langurs’ (4.82% ± 1.41%). These differences should be linked to the fact that the diversity composition of captive langurs was lower than that of wild langurs and higher in simple carbohydrates. Variations in the gut microbiota of captive and wild should be linked to the differences in langurs’ dietary compositions, because the captive langurs consumed more fiber-rich and less simple carbohydrates-rich foods than wild langurs. Our study concluded that dietary composition could be crucial determinant in shaping gut microbiota of langurs, highlighting the importance of captivity on the gut microbiota structure and function and the need to consider the gut microbiota in animal provision.
Inverted resonance capture cascade:
modal interactions of a nonlinear energy sink with softening stiffness
Authors: Dekemele Kevin , Habib Giuseppe
Published: December 2022

Nonlinear energy sinks (NESs) are broadband passive vibration absorbers that are nonlinearly connected to a host system. If an NES is attached to a multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical host system under transient loading, the vibrations in the host system will transfer to and dissipate in the NES. During this transfer, the NES sequentially resonates with the modal frequencies of the host system, dissipating one mode at a time. This phenomenon is called resonance capture cascade (RCC). So far, RCC has only been investigated for NESs with a hardening nonlinear stiffness. Because of this stiffness, the transfer of modal vibrations happens from high to low frequency. In this study, an NES with a softening stiffness is proposed. Investigating the slow invariant manifolds reveals that an inverted resonance capture cascade occurs, where the transfer of vibrations to the NES is from low to high frequency. The analysis is carried out by exploiting high-dimensional slow invariant manifolds. The proposed NES is compared to the conventional NES with hardening stiffness.
High-content screening identifies a critical role for P pili in early adhesion of uropathogenic Escherichia coli to bladder cells
Authors: Simonet Thomas , Rutschmann Ophélie , Sharma Kunal , Nass Théo , Pavlou Maria , Dubois Anaëlle , Knott Graham , McKinney John
Published: December 2022

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are notoriously difficult to treat due to the ability of UPEC to adhere to and invade urothelial bladder cells. UPEC strains encode a variety of adhesins whose roles in adhesion and invasion are not fully elucidated. Using a transposon insertion library derived from the UPEC clinical isolate CFT073, we developed a high-content screening assay to identify UPEC mutants with defects in early adhesion to human bladder epithelial cells. Of a total of 8,184 mutants screened, we recovered 82 (1.0%) and 54 (0.7%) mutants with decreased and increased adhesion, respectively. Surprisingly, nine low-adhesion hits mapped to the two P pili operons encoded by CFT073, which are usually thought to mediate adhesion to kidney cells rather than bladder cells. These results were reinforced by examination of six high-adhesion hits mapping to the operon coding for F1C pili, where disruption of F1C pili function resulted in increased P pili synthesis. Taken together, these findings reveal a critical role for P pili in UPEC adhesion to bladder epithelial cells, which may inform the development of anti-adhesion therapies to prevent UTI recurrence.
Performance enhancement of UAV relay-assisted free-space optics systems with pointing errors
Authors: Elsayed Ebrahim E. , Hayal Mohammed R. , Kakati Dhiman , Singh Mehtab , Alfikky Abdelrahman A. , Boghdady Ayman I. , Grover Amit
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates and enhances unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) relay-assisted free-space optics (FSO) communication systems under the effects of pointing errors (PEs) and atmospheric turbulences. The incorporation of UAVs as buffer-aided moving relays in the conventional FSO (CFSO) relay-assisted systems is proposed for enhancing the performance of PEs through AT. Using M-PSK (phase shift keying) and M-QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation), the impact of PEs on transmission quality is evaluated in this work. We examine and enhance the symbol error rate, outage probability (OP), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for the UAV-to-ground stationbased FSO communications systems. The spatial diversity-based relay-assisted CFSO systems can enhance the performance of the UAV-UAV FSO links. Numerical results show that to achieve a bit-error-rate (BER) of ≤ 10-5 , the required SNR is ≥ 23 dB when the wind variance of the UAVs 𝜎𝛼2 increases from 0 to 7 mrad with FSO link distance L = 2000 m. The required SNR is ≥ 25 dB when the wind variance 𝜎𝛼2 is 1 mrad at a OP of 10-6 . To obtain an average BER of 10−6 , the SNR should be 16.23 dB, 17.64 dB, and 21.45 dB when 𝜎𝛼2 is 0 mrad, 1 mrad, and 2 mrad, respectively. Using 8-PSK modulation without PEs requires 23.5 dB at BER of 10-8 while 16-QAM without PEs requires 26.5 dB to maintain the same BER of 10-8 . Compared with 16-QAM without PEs, the SNR gain of 8-PSK without PEs is 3 dB.