bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interacting proteins of AMPK studied using TurboID proximity labeling technology
Authors: Guo Jieyu , Lu Siao , Zhao Baoqing , Gong Jun , Wang Long , Ding Liqiong , Chen Qingjie , Liu Wu
Published: August 2023

Objective
Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), whose activity is regulated by the AMP/ATP ratio in the body, is an important center for controlling cell energy metabolism, and is also an evolutionarily conservative serine/threonine protein kinase. AMPK plays an important role in diabetes, myocardial infarction and many diseases. We try to use TurboID technology to study a novel protein that can interact with AMPK, and explore the biological function of this protein, in order to provide a theoretical basis for the development of new targeted drugs.
Methods
We will construct AMPK overexpression stable cell lines by transfecting AMPK-TurboID fusion gene into astrocytes U251 using lentiviral infection technique. After 6 h of biotin labeling, a large number of proteins interacting with AMPK can be observed by silver staining. The interacting proteins were analyzed by label-free quantitative protein profiling, and the interacting protein DNAJA1 was selected for IP and immunofluorescence validation.
Results
We successfully constructed AMPK-TurboID overexpression stable cell lines, and obtained a large number of interacting proteins after biotin labeling experiments, and then obtained all interacting protein information by mass spectrometry, and selected the interacting protein DNAJA1 for IP and immunofluorescence validation. In addition, we found that AMPK and DNAJA1 could be jointly involved in anti-apoptotic cell death.
Conclusion
Because AMPK is involved in a variety of metabolic pathways, coupled with the advantages of high catalytic activity and fast labeling of TurboID neighboring labeling technology, a large number of proteins interacting with AMPK gene were found through biotin labeling experiments, and subsequent experiments verified that AMPK and DNAJA1 have interaction, and the two can synergistically protect cells from apoptosis; this has laid a certain theoretical foundation for how to use AMPK to treat clinical diseases such as diabetes and myocardial infarction in the future.
Public acceptance of default nudges to promote healthy and sustainable food choices
Authors: Lemken Dominic , Wahnschafft Simone , Eggers Carolin
Published: August 2023

Background: Default nudges are an increasingly prominent tool for promoting healthy and sustainable food choices; however, questions of acceptance remain. While default nudges are more acceptable to the public than traditionally paternalistic tools that aim to restrict choice, they are also the least acceptable amongst nudging strategies. Little research has investigated the aspects of default nudge design that can be leveraged to better uphold freedom of choice, increase public acceptance, and therefore heighten legitimacy of default nudges. Consequently, this study examines public acceptance of five food choice default nudges with demonstrated precedent of effectiveness, as drawn from research studies and/or real-world policies, along with a design variation of each anticipated to increase acceptance. Three drivers of acceptance – perceived intrusiveness, perceived effectiveness, and own behavior – are examined.
Methods: An online survey was administered in Germany (N = 451) to a sample representative of the adult population on quotas of age, gender and income. Acceptance and drivers were measured using seven-point Likert scales. Significant differences in median acceptance of the nudge were determined and displayed graphically. Ten proportional odds ordered logit models were applied and estimated using a maximum likelihood approach to investigate the mechanisms of nudge acceptance.
Results: Examined changes in nudge design, particularly decreasing costliness of opting out and increasing transparency, increased the acceptance of three of the five nudges (N2.2: p = 0.000; N3.2: p = 0.000; N4.2: p = 0.008). Perceived intrusiveness emerged as the most prominent driver of acceptance (negative relationship), followed by perceived effectiveness (positive relationship). Own engagement in the target behavior of the nudge and socio-demographic variables demonstrated negligible impact on acceptance.
Conclusions: Mitigating the costliness of opting out and improving nudge transparency emerge as key opportunities for choice architects to improve public acceptance, and thereby potentially identify 'sweet spots' in designing default nudges that are both effective and acceptable. The protection of individual freedom of choice and effectiveness are key aspects for choice architects to communicate to increase acceptance.
The screening of miRNA/transcription factors-target gene regulatory networks in the aging process of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Gong Xue , Wei Shuyao , Dou Lu , Mou Fangzhen
Published: August 2023

Background
hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) failure is one of the key signs of biological aging.
Objective
Screening the key gene regulatory network in the aging process.
Materials and methods
Used GES32719 and GSE69408 to screen the difference genes in the Aging process, and enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction analysis were carried out to obtain key transcription factor (TFs). The transcription factor is matched to the DNA damage map to obtain a target gene. Analysis of miRNA regulated or was regulated with transcription factors and target genes. Based on the above results, construct possible miRNA/TFs/target gene regulation networks.
Results
222 different genes were obtained using the GES32719, found mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, microRNAs in cancer, and the hippo signaling pathway was significantly enrichment. Four TFS (MYC, FOS, ERG1, and JUN) were identified. Docked with DNA damage map, obtained three key target genes (PTEN, PFN1, and LMNA). 13 potential miRNAs based on TFS and target gene, where has-miR-139-5p and has-miR-543 were considered the most critical. Based on these data, three possible miRNA/TFs/target gene regulatory networks were constructed.
Conclusion
We constructed three possible regulatory models. This study provides a reference and basis for studying the possible mechanisms of HSCs aging.
Influence of size on the compressive properties of cellular structures manufactured by additive technologies (FFF, SLS).
Authors: Rudnik Mateusz Paweł
Published: August 2023

The aim of this paper was to compare manufactured cell structures with an appropriately defined formula. Printed models of the hexagonal structure subjected to compression showed that, in the case of the Polylactic Acid Blue material, as the size of the side length of the hexagonal cells increased, the quality of the generated diagrams also increased, which informed the undesired effects of the compressive force in the tests. In the case of cells manufactured from the PA2200 material, it was noted that the maximum force acting on the cell structure decreased with increasing cell side length, however, no undesirable situations occurred during testing in contrast to structures made from Polylactic Acid base materials. In the case of Polylactic Acidmaterials, special attention had to be paid to the Polylactic Acid Gray material. The models were printed with the same parameters, from the same Stereolitography language file, had a slightly higher mass and were subjected to the same compression test, yet showed significant differences in the tests carried out compared to the other models.
The effect of spatial lag on modeling geomatic covariates using analysis of variance
Authors: Contreras Aquiles Enrique Darghan , Lozada Darlley Stiven Taborda , Sotomayor Nair Jose Gonzalez , Moreno Carlos Armando Rivera , Noreña Jesus Efren Ospina
Published: August 2023

In recent years, statistical methods involving spatial considerations have been developed, for example, those incorporating data with some type of georeferencing. The descriptive part of geographic information systems currently provides many visualization and analytic tools; however, the latter is still quite limited. In this sense, research of a spatial nature is seen as combining non-spatial statistical methods for inferential treatment that can certainly invalidate the excellent capture work with advanced tools such as those observed every day in the geomatic context. This prompted the current document, drawing attention to how geomatic information analyzed with statistical methods that imply independence in modeled observations can be invalid. The Moran index is compared with a proposal for a spatial lag coefficient in the context of experimental design so that users of variance analysis do not apply this well-known procedure in a ritualistic way, perhaps revising some assumptions and perhaps ignoring more important ones. The distortion of the p value generated from the analysis of variance is clear in the presence of spatial dependence. In this case it is associated with the lag or spatial overlap. The methodology is simple to adopt in other experimental designs with the simple consideration of the design matrix and its reparameterization and the choice of the appropriate weight matrix. This will allow users to reconsider the traditional method of analysis and incorporate some methodology to support spatial dependency structures.
Genome-wide Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of the UGT Gene Family in Vitis vinifera L
Authors: wenhang Hou , chongyao Chen , wei Liu , na He , min Tan , jinyv He , zhenghai Liu , zhigang Dong
Published: August 2023

UGT (uridine diphosphate glycos-yltransferase) is involved in the process of glycosylation modification and plays an important role in plant growth and development, secondary metabolism and stress response. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of UGT in the biosynthesis of grape secondary metabolites based on the genome-wide identification of grape UGT gene family. Gene family identification, bioinformatics analysis, gene mapping, phylogenetic tree analysis, conservative motif prediction, gene structure and cis-element analysis were performed by using the software. Combined with transcriptome data and KEGG enrichment analysis, genes related to secondary metabolic processes were screened. We identified 181 UGT genes in the grape genome and divided them into 18 subfamilies. Comprehensive analysis showed that fragment duplication events had significant effects on the evolution of VvUGT gene family, and the motif distribution of proteins in the same subfamily was similar Developmental, hormonal, and stress-related cis-elements are enriched in the promoter region. We identified 14 genes in the VvUGT family that may be involved in anthocyanin synthesis. These results provide a theoretical basis for further study on the mechanism of VvUGT gene family regulating the synthesis of plant secondary metabolites.
Determinants of the incidence of heart failure in diabetics in Goma, North Kivu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mukoso Ferdinand Ng’ekieb , Wembomyama Stannislas Okitotsho , Nkodila Aliocha Natuhoyila , Mbala Cédric Kalala , Kamuanga Zéphirin Tudienzela , Kapongo Remy Yobo , Lubanga Yves Nsimba , Kianu Bernard Phanzu , Situakibanza Hippolyte Nani tuma , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Pithuwa Jason Nirwooth , Tsongo Zacharie Kibendelwa
Published: August 2023

Background
Individuals with diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of developing heart failure due to the contributing influence of diabetes mellitus risk factors. But data on African literature are rare. The objective of this study is to evaluate the determinants of heart failure in patients with diabetes mellitus followed in Goma.
Methods
Asymptomatic diabetics in the city of Goma were cross-sectionally recruited at the Center of the Association of Diabetics in Congo (ADIC) in Goma, DRC during the period from February 5 to 19, 2023. The incidence of heart failure was determined using pulse pressure (PP). A PP value ≥ 65 mmHg was considered as an incidence of heart failure. The association between the incidence of HF and the independent variables was evaluated by two models using the logistic regression test at the threshold of p < 0.05.
Results
The incidence frequency of heart failure was 29.9%. In multivariate analysis, adjusted for all these variables in multivariate in the two whose menopause and sex were collinear, the following variables emerged as determinants of incidence of HF in diabetics: hypertension (aOR: 5.93 IC95%: 2.42–14.51), DS type 2 (aOR: 3.60 95% CI: 1.63–4.25), menopause (aOR: 5.48 95% CI: 3.03-9, 72) and eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m² (aOR: 348 95% CI: 1.94–5.30), female sex (aOR: 2.80 95% CI: 1.06–3.80) and pathological fundus (aOR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.77–5.35).
Conclusion
The frequency of HF is high in asymptomatic diabetics in Goma. It is determined by gender, menopause, dS type 2, pathological fundus and altered eGFR.
Biomechanical effect of Chinese manual therapy for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy after percutaneous endoscopic cervical foraminotomy and diskectomy: A finite element study
Authors: Wang Huihao , Shen Zhibi , Fan Xin , Li Xiaofei , Wang Kuan , Zhan Hongsheng , Yu Zhongxiang , Zheng Yuxin
Published: August 2023

With the recurrence of symptoms and emergence of accompanying disorders for intractable cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) after cervical spine surgery, Chinese manual therapy (CMT) may be an alternative. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare the biomechanical impact of CMT on the cervical spine before and after percutaneous endoscopic cervical foraminotomy and diskectomy (PECFD) with resection at three different extents by the finite element analysis. A three-dimensional finite element digital model of C0-C7, representing a normal and intact cervical spine, was created and validated. Subsequently, the finite element model of PECFD was derived by modifying the validated model. Four different models were subjected to load conditions simulating CMT. Various biomechanical parameters, including range of motion (ROM), intervertebral disc pressure (IDP), and stress on facet ligaments, were calculated for both the operated segment and the adjacent segment under different motion conditions. The maximum displacement (MD) of the cervical spine induced by load 1 was higher than that of the other load. The rotation angle (RA) of M3 was lower in right bending and right rotation and higher in extension. The maximum stress of the annulus fibrosus matrix of the intervertebral disc was calculated during the whole movement of the cervical spine. The more tissue that was removed from the intervertebral disc, the higher was the maximum stress of the annulus fibrosus matrix under the two CMTs. For most cervical segments, the intact model and three PECFD models had little effect on the intervertebral disc pressure (IDP) during physiological activity and the two CMTs. However, the IDP in the operated C5-6 segment of the PECFD models was mostly higher than that of the intact segment. The stress of the right FLs of C5-6 in the PECFD models exceeded that of the intact model during left and right lateral bending; significantly, the stress on M3 was found to be 1.5 times higher than that observed in the intact model. Conversely, in comparison to the intact model, the stress experienced by the left facet ligaments (FLs) of the C5-6 segment in M3 was reduced by 60% and 65% respectively. Although the removal of the annulus fibrosus had minimal impact on cervical spinal stability in the model, it should be noted that the nucleus pulposus was not considered. Considering this limitation, follow-up CMT could potentially offer benefits. With the increase in resection, CMT is more likely to cause reprotrusion and instability with regard to the short-term curative effect.
Cathode regeneration processes enabled transition from spent batteries to lithium-ion alternatives
Authors: Chen Zhongwei , Yang Tingzhou , Luo Dan , Zhang Xinyu , Gao Shihui , Gao Rui , Ma Qianyi , Park Hey Woong , Or Tyler , Zhang Yongguang
Published: August 2023

The development of electric vehicles is accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy, but the millions of end-of-life electric vehicles generated over the next decade pose serious waste management challenges, especially the recycling of spent batteries. Here we propose two cathode regeneration processes to enable scalable and affordable recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) into brand-new LIBs and their alternatives, such as sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). The regenerated layered oxide materials deliver a reversible area capacity of up to 2.73 mAh cm− 2 with excellent structural stability for LIBs, while obtained cyanide complex manifests an 83.7% retention over 2000 cycles for SIBs and robust cycling stability for pouch cells. By contrast, the manufacturing costs for LIBs and SIBs using our regenerated materials have dropped to an all-time low of $47.16 and $37.49 per kWh, with conspicuous reductions in energy consumption, water consumption, and harmful gas emissions. Our sustainable battery recycling designs pave the way for the transition to more sustainable energy storage technologies, enabling post-LIBs with regenerated materials.
Hemostatic markers and polymorphisms in three families with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Authors: Olivas Armando Rodríguez , Hernadez-Zamora Edgar , Casas-Avila Leonora , Lezama-Palacios Ruth , Reyes-Maldonado Elba
Published: August 2023

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD) is a rare disease caused by avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Although its etiology is still not fully understood, evidence suggests heritable prothrombotic and inflammatory environmental factors may be implicated in its onset and progress. Our objective is to describe the genetic, biochemical markers, and environmental factors that may be associated with the etiology of LCPD. This study was conducted in three families and included seven related patients, with diagnosis of LCPD. We evaluated the following gene alterations: MTHFR, CBS, PT, FVL, FVIII, FIX, PAI-1, eNOS, IL-23R, and TNF-α, by real time PCR. Additionally, we assessed thrombophilia-associated biochemical markers. In addition, environmental factors were detected. Our results show different hemostatic alterations in every individual analyzed, presenting out-of-range values in one or more parameters. Concentrations in hemoglobin, fibrinogen, homocysteine, FVIII, and FIX activity percentage showed statistically significant differences when comparing with healthy controls. All patients present at least one mutated allele for the MTFHR (rs1801133) and IL-23R (rs1569922) polymorphisms, as well as isolated cases with other genetic variants. Our results show environmental elements from every family and hemostatic and inflammatory disorders may be involved in suffering and developing LCPD. Also, heritable factors could contribute to the onset of the disease.
No side effects on retina or vitreous microenvironment by YAG laser vitreolysis in vivo
Authors: Lin Tiezhu , Zhang Mingqin , Wu Bing , An Yuanlong , Pazo Emmanuel Eric , Li Rong , Shen Lijun
Published: August 2023

Background: To explore the safety of yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser vitreolysis based on the histological examination of the retina and the alteration of vitreous cytokines in vivo.
Methods: Nine male New Zealand rabbits underwent YAG laser vitreolysis of 10 mJ x 500 pulses in the left eyes, while the right eyes were used as controls. Intraocular pressure, color fundus photography, and ultrasound B scan were measured before, as well as 1 day, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after YAG laser vitreolysis. Three rabbits were euthanized 1 day, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after treatment, respectively. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining were used to look for pathological changes in the retina. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to detect the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and some inflammatory cytokines, including interferon inducible protein 10 (IP-10), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and interlenkin 6 (IL-6) in the vitreous humor. The ascorbic acid (AsA) and total reactive antioxidant potential (TRAP) in the vitreous humor were also measured.
Results: Following YAG laser vitreolysis, the levels of VEGF, IP-10, MCP-1, IL6, AsA, and TRAP in the vitreous humor did not change substantially (P > 0.05). There were no detectable pathological changes in the retinal tissues, and no apoptotic signal was found.
Conclusions: YAG laser vitreolysis has no noticeable effects on retinal tissue or the microenvironment of the vitreous, so it is a safe procedure.
Psychopathological Characteristics in Patients with Digestive Problems: A Comparative Analysis with a Healthy Control Group
Authors: Javanmard Gholam Hossein , Javanmard Shahin
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
This study aimed to compare the psychopathological characteristics of patients with digestive (gastrointestinal) problems with those of a healthy control group.
Methods
A total of 70 patients with gastrointestinal issues were referred to the gastroenterology department, and 70 healthy individuals were included in the study. Both groups completed the 90-question mental health questionnaire (SCL-90-R).
Results
The results demonstrated significantly higher average scores in the patients' group across various scales, including depression, aggression, somatization, sensitivity in social relationships, obsession, anxiety, phobia, and psychotic symptoms. Overall, the group with digestive problems exhibited more symptoms associated with these eight mental disorders than the healthy control group. However, there were no notable differences between the two groups, except for the presence of paranoid ideations as a distinguishing characteristic.
Conclusions
This research unequivocally establishes a strong association between gastrointestinal issues and mental well-being, highlighting the influence of digestive system functioning on mental health. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychopathological aspects related to gastrointestinal conditions.
Forecasting Stock Prices Changes Using Long-Short Term Memory Neural Network with Symbolic Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Li Qi , Kamaruddin Norshaliza , Al-Jaifi Hamdan Amer Ali
Published: August 2023

This paper presents an enhanced Long-Short Term Memory Neural Network (LSTM) framework that combines Symbolic Genetic Algorithm (SGA) to predict cross-sectional price returns for 4500 listed stock in China from 2014 to 2022. Using the S&P Alpha Pool Dataset for China, the framework incorporates data augmentation and feature selection techniques. The study demonstrates significant improvements in Rank Information coefficient (Rank IC) and IC information ratio (ICIR) by 1128% and 5360% respectively when applied to fundamental indicators. For technical indicators, the hybrid model achieves a 206% increase in Rank IC and an impressive surge of 2752% in ICIR. Furthermore, a simple rule-based strategy based on the proposed hybrid SGA-LSTM model outperforms major Chinese stock indexes, generating average annualized excess returns of 31.00%, 24.48%, and 17.38% compared to the CSI 300 index, CSI 500 index, and the average portfolio, respectively. These findings highlight the effectiveness of LSTM with SGA in optimizing the accuracy of cross-sectional stock return predictions and provide valuable insights for fund managers, traders, and financial analysts.
Transition readiness among Finnish adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Mikola Katriina , Rebane Katariina , Kautiainen Hannu , Aalto Kristiina
Published: August 2023

Background
With chronic diseases, the responsibility for care transfers to adult clinics at some point. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common persistent rheumatic condition in children. A successful transition requires sufficient self-management skills to manage one´s chronic condition and all the tasks involved. In this study, we evaluated transition readiness in Finnish patients with JIA. We aimed to find practical tools to support a successful transition and to study the possible consequences of an unsuccessful transition.
Methods
The usefulness of a specific questionnaire, which was administered to 83 JIA patients, was evaluated in this study. We also gathered information from their first adult clinic visit to assess the success of their transition and its relation to disease activity.
Results
In 55 (71%) patients, the transition was estimated to be successful. We were able to determine a cut-off score in the questionnaire for a successful transition: the best estimate for a successful transition is when the score is 24 or more. At the first adult clinic visit, an unsuccessful transition was evident in its effect on disease outcome. If the transition was defined as successful, the DAS28 was better.
Conclusion
We found the questionnaire to be a useful tool for evaluating transition readiness. Determination of a successful transition helped us identify those adolescents who needed more profound support to improve their self-management skills and thus enhance their transition process. An unsuccessful transition was shown to negatively impact on disease outcomes.
Antimicrobial prophylaxis for vesicoureteral reflux: which subgroups of children benefit the most?
Authors: Zhao Beibo , Ivanova Anastasia , Shaikh Nader
Published: August 2023

Background: While the Randomized Intervention for children with Vesicoureteral Reflux (RIVUR) trial found that long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis reduced the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrences by 50%, 10 children had to be treated with long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis for one to benefit (i.e., observed number needed to treat (NNT) of 10). Accordingly, we re-analyzed RIVUR data to systematically identify subgroups of children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) with a smaller NNT.
Methods: Using patient-level data from the RIVUR trial, we applied penalized regression methods including the baseline age, VUR, and bowel-bladder dysfunction (BBD) as covariates to identify subgroups that consider the trade-off between absolute risk difference and size.
Results: We identified three relevant subgroups of children that appear to benefit from long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis, all with NNTs smaller than the NNT of 10. Children with grade IV VUR and BBD, 1% of the RIVUR sample, had a NNT of 2; children with BBD, 12% of the RIVUR sample, had a NNT of 4; children with BBD (and any grade VUR) or with grade IV VUR (regardless of BBD status), which was the combination of the first two subgroups and included 19% of children in the RIVUR sample, had a NNT of 4.
Conclusions: Use of long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis appears to be particularly relevant for children with BBD (and any grade of VUR) or those with grade IV VUR (regardless of BBD status) who were at high risk of UTI recurrences.
A Cross-sectional Study of the Sexual History and Contraceptive Use of Female Hairdressers in Ghana
Authors: Owusu Lydia Boampong , Zakaria Abdul-Fatawu Suglo , Dwumfour Catherine Kroamah , Emikpe Abigael Omowumi , Akosua Abrafi Shirley , Boatemaa Osei Justina , Dorothy Nartey Akumaa Lameley , Dzomeku Veronica
Published: August 2023

The social environment of the hairdressing salon provides the opportunity to discuss sexual exploits among peers and this may easily influence decisions concerning sexual behaviour. Hairdressing salon workers are often women in their reproductive years and may be at risk of unintended pregnancy and self-induced abortions. Therefore, the effective use of contraceptives is imperative among these age groups. The study assessed the sexual history and contraceptive use among female hairdressers in two (2) selected communities in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design with a quantitative method was employed in two communities within Kumasi city. Convenience sampling was used to select 109 hairdressers after using Yamane’s formula to calculate sample sizes. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed using SPSS. Results: The majority of the respondents (73.4%) had their first sexual activity within 15–19 years. A total of 64.2% had ever conceived, with 72.9% of the pregnancies being unintended. All the respondents had knowledge of contraceptives. More than 80% of respondents reported that they had ever used a contraceptive method, with the calendar method being the most previously and currently used method. Age and educational level had a significant effect on contraceptive knowledge (p < 0.001), while marital status, educational level, occupation, age at first sex and ever having an unintended pregnancy influenced contraceptive use (p < 0.05), and contraceptive knowledge influenced its usage (p = 0.003). Conclusion: The study found the calendar method to be the most commonly used contraceptive, which has a high failure rate compared to artificial contraceptive methods, which may have explained the high rate of pregnancy among participants. It is therefore crucial that sexually active women are provided accurate information on family planning methods. Implications: Knowing the sexual behaviour of hairdressers, their knowledge and their use of contraceptives will help nurses and midwives tailor education to their needs. This study calls for intense education on contraceptives targeted at artisans. Again, it will help influence policy change on artisan training and other reproductive health programmes targeted at hairdressers.
How post-infection status could lead to the increasing risks of chronic fatigue syndrome and the potential mechanisms: A 17-year population-based Cohort study
Authors: Chang Hsun , Kuo Chien-Feng , Yu Teng-Shun , Ke Liang-Yin , Hung Chung-Lieh , Tsai Shin-Yi
Published: August 2023

Background: Serological studies have suggested that viruses and atypical pathogens are associated with CFS, but no study has focused on typical and common pathogens. This study aims to assess the association of infections with a variety of common pathogens with the risk of CFS and provide evidence for the hypothesis that infection triggers CFS.
Methods: The nested case-control study identified 2,000,000 adult patients from a nationwide population-based health insurance claims database from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2017. Each case with a diagnosis of infection by pathogens was matched with one control using a propensity score. Patients with more than one potential pathogen, younger than 20 years old, or with a history of CFS or infection with certain pathogens before the index date were excluded. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were applied to estimate the HR, aHR, and corresponding 95% CI. The multivariate analysis had adjustments for age, sex, comorbidities, and medication confounders.
Results: A total of 395,811 cases with 1:1 matched controls were included (58.2% female; mean age [standard deviation], 44.15 [17.02]). Among these, the aHR of the pathogen cohort was 1.5 (95% CI, 1.47 to 1.54). Pathogens were positively correlated with CFS, including influenza, candida and others.
Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate the association between CFS and infection with common pathogens, including bacteria, virus and fungi.
Impact of a home-based resistance training program on health-related quality of life and sleep quality in children with inflammatory bowel disease in remission
Authors: Mažuranić Ivana Trivić , Sila Sara , Mišak Zrinjka , Hojsak Iva , Kolaček Sanja
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of an exercise program on HRQoL and sleep quality in children with IBD in remission.
Methods: A total of 42 paediatric IBD patients in remission (aged 15.3±2.08 years; 25 boys; disease type: Crohn's disease (CD) n=22, ulcerative colitis (UC) n=18, inflammatory bowel disease-unclassified (IBD-U) n=2) were recruited to participate in a 6-month-long home-based exercise program. Prior to starting the program, and after its’ completion, HRQoL was assessed using IMPACT III questionnaire, whilst sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. Patients also wore a triaxial accelerometer for five consecutive days before and after the completion of the exercise program for objective assessment of physical activity (PA).
Results: Study participants experienced no significant increase in IMPACT III score (from 147.56±2.73 to 149.59±2.77, p=0.106) following the completion of the exercise program. Prevalence of impaired sleep quality (PSQI>5) significantly decreased from 30.9% to 23.8% (p=0.027). At the baseline, participants’ time spent in light PA (LPA) positively correlated with IMPACT III score (coef. 0.398, p=0.013). Following the completion of the resistance training program, the changes in IMPACT III score correlated positively with time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) (coef. 0.329, p=0.047) and negatively with changes in PSQI score (coef. -0.493, p=0.001).
Conclusion:The number of children with impaired sleep quality significantly decreased following the completion of a 6-month-long home-based resistance training program, while improvements in HRQoL scores did not reach a statistical difference. Further studies regarding the impact of structuralized exercise programs on HRQoL and sleep quality in children with IBD are warranted.
Family dyads, emotional labor, and holding environments in the simulated encounter: Co-constructive patient simulation as a reflective tool in child and adolescent psychiatry training
Authors: Thomas Isaiah , Benoit Laelia , Duvivier Robbert , de Carvalho-Filho Marco Antonio , Martin Andrés
Published: August 2023

Background:
Patient simulation has been used in medical education to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for learners to practice clinical and interpersonal skills. However, simulation involving pediatric populations, particularly in child and adolescent psychiatry, is rare and generally does not reflect the child-caregiver dyad or the longitudinal aspects of this care, nor does it provide learners with an opportunity to engage with and reflect on these dynamics.
Methods:
We organized as an educational opportunity a series of seven observed patient simulation sessions with a cohort of a dozen child and adolescent psychiatrists (eight fellows approaching graduation and four senior educators). In these sessions, we utilized the previously described co-constructive patient simulation model to create the simulation cases. We included the use of at least two patient actors in most sessions, and two of the case narratives were longitudinally followed across multiple simulation sessions. We approached the data collected during the simulations and their respective debriefings by using thematic analysis informed by a symbolic interactionist approach.
Results:
Based on data from the debriefing sessions and longitudinal narratives, we identified four overarching themes: 1) Reflecting on dyadic challenges: role reversal and individuation; 2) Centering the child, allying with the parent, and treating the family system; 3) Ambivalence in and about the parent-child dyad; and 4) Longitudinal narratives and ambivalence over time.
Conclusion:
The emotional experience of the simulations, for interviewers and observers alike, provided an opportunity to reflect on personal and professional experiences and triggered meaningful insights and connections between participants. These simulated cases called for emotional labor, particularly in the form of creating holding environments; in this way, the simulated encounters and the debriefing sessions became dialogic experiences, in which the patient and provider, parent and child, and learner and instructor could co-construct meaning and foster professional development as reflective practitioners.
Optimization of flat rolling parameters for thermally stable alloy of Al-Cu-Mn system with micro additions of Si and Zr
Authors: Koshmin Alexander , Cherkasov Stanislav , Fortuna Anastasiya , Gamin Yury
Published: August 2023

The phase composition, microstructure and mechanical properties of flat-rolled experimental Al-Cu-Mn system alloy with Si and Zr additions have been studied. The experimental results have been compared with data for the AA2219 commercial alloy pertaining to the same alloying system. Hot deformation of experimental alloy causes the precipitation of ~ 100 nm sized dispersoids and refinement of the eutectic phase particles. The yield strength and relative elongation of the hot-deformed experimental alloy are 255 MPa and 8.6%, respectively. Subsequent cold deformation reduces the relative elongation by 3.5% and increases the yield strength by 50 MPa, while the ultimate tensile strength does not change. After long-term 350°C exposure the mechanical properties of the experimental alloy remain the same as those of the as-deformed one, whereas the yield strength of the 2219 alloy decreases by 2 times and the ultimate tensile strength, by 1.4 times. Comparison of these experimental results with data for the 2219 alloy and other Al-Cu-Mn system alloys cited in this work and reported elsewhere suggests that a good thermal stability of Al-2Cu-2Mn-0.4Si-0.2Zr alloy rolled stock can be achieved by treatment in the regimes designed herein.
Morphological plasticity of Abutilon theophrasti (Malvaceae) reveals its variable growth strategies in dealing with complex biotic environmental factors
Authors: Wang Shu , Zhou Dao-Wei
Published: August 2023

Increased density and delayed emergence are two major biotic factors in nature that have profound and complex effects on plants. No studies have attempted to compare the responses of plants to the two factors via morphological plasticity, particularly in dynamic patterns. We subjected plants of Abutilon theophrasti to four emergence times and three planting densities and measured and analyzed a number of mass and morphological traits at different growth stages. Across both stages, plants emerged in late spring had the highest total mass, and spring and late-spring plants had higher stem mass allocation than later germinants, but plants with delayed emergence had higher leaf and reproductive mass allocation, more leaves and less lateral roots, but lower stem length, stem and root diameter than early-emerged plants. Plants at high density had lower in total mass and most other traits, but higher stem allocation and length, with shorter petioles and lateral roots, than at lower densities. Results suggested plants in a dense population will prefer stem elongation to leaf/root growth, and even at the cost of reproduction, to ensure the survival of the present generations, while those emerged late will prefer leaf and reproductive growth to stem/root growth, for the persistence of future generations. The contrasting strategies revealed that plants are able to analyze the risk levels of environmental signals in a integrative way and adjust their growth strategy dependently, for better adaptation in both the recent and distant future.
Dynamic changes in the expression of C1q/TNF-α-related protein 6 (CTRP6) in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Jiang Jianan , Wei Shuangyu , Chen Miao , Tan Yutian , Yang Zhao , Yang Guiying , Feng Weijie , Han Zhen , Wei Xiaojing , Luo Xiao
Published: August 2023

Aim
C1q/TNF-related protein 6 (CTRP6) is a novel adipokine involved in insulin resistance. Thus, we aim to investigate the expression profile of CTRP6 in plasma, adipose tissue and placenta of GDM patients and mice.
Methods
Pregnant women (GDM n = 9, control n = 10) with a scheduled caesarean section delivery were recruited. High fat diet (HFD) induced C57BL/6 pregnancy mice were chosen as an animal model of GDM. Circulating levels of CTRP6 and adiponectin were examined by ELISA. CTRP6 expression in adipose tissue and placenta were detected by real time qPCR and WB.
Result
The plasma CTRP6 level were decreased during first (for mice)/second and third trimesters, while increased at delivery in GDM patients and mice. Plasma CTRP6 level were significantly correlated with WBC, systolic pressure, diastolic pressure and fasting blood glucose. Moreover, CTRP6 mRNA expression in subcutaneous (sWAT) and omental white adipose tissue (oWAT) as well as placenta were significantly higher in GDM human at cesarean delivery. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of Ctrp6 were increased in sWAT and visceral WAT (vWAT) whilst decreased in interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) of GDM mice at cesarean delivery.
Conclusion
Dynamically expressed CTRP6 may be served as a candidate target for treatment of GDM.
Fungal Skin for Robots
Authors: Gandia Antoni , Adamatzky Andrew
Published: August 2023

Advancements in mycelium technology, stemming from fungal electronics and the development of living mycelium composites and skins, have opened new avenues in the fusion of biological and artificial systems. This paper explores an experimental endeavour that successfully incorporates living, self-regenerating, and reactive Ganoderma sessile mycelium into a model cyborg figurine, creating a bio-cybernetic entity. The mycelium, cultivated using established techniques, was homogeneously grown on the cyborg model’s surface, demonstrating robust reactivity to various stimuli such as light exposure and touch. This innovative merger points towards the future of sustainable biomaterials and the potential integration of these materials into new and existing technologies.
Visual Coding of Information for Augmented Reality Environments
Authors: Maradei Fernanda , Bautista Luis
Published: August 2023

Students have benefited greatly from immersive learning environments that use augmented reality. Some visual features of instructional material, such as color coding, have shown potential in improving learning performance. However, the effect in Immersive Learning Environments is still unknown in detail. The objective of this research is to know how the use of color-coded material affects the performance and mental effort of participants in Immersive Learning Environments in augmented reality. Therefore, an experimental study was executed with 29 students, in a case study for learning an arthroscopy surgical procedure, using an Immersive Learning Environment in augmented reality. The results suggested no differences in the participants' performance in terms of time and percentage of correct answers. Participants who used non-coded material, on the other hand, suggested a high level of mental effort. These results provide valuable information for the design of Immersive Learning Environments, with the purpose of creating environments under conditions that foster learning.
Simulation and optimization of the spoon-wheel type maize precision seed- metering device based on vibration
Authors: Han Dandan , Wang Qing , Li Wei , Huang Yuxia , Xu You , Tang Chao , Luo Jie
Published: August 2023

Due to the sticky soil and uneven terrain in southwest China, the planters will vibrate in the field, and the seed-metering device will also be vibrated up and down with them, hence increasing the leakage rate and deteriorating the plant distribution uniformity in maize. The spoon-wheel disc is the essential part of the spoon-wheel seed-metering device, and the spoon shape contributes to the device’s capacity for seed-filling, seed-cleaning, and seed-delivery. DEM simulation and optimization of the shapes and quantity of spoons under vibrational conditions are investigated in this paper. EDEM was adopted to establish DEM models of ‘Zhongyu No.3’ coated maize seeds and the spoon-wheel seed-metering device first, and four additional spoons of various shapes (labeled as K1 ~ K5, respectively) were designed based on the original spoon structure. Based on the in-field vibrational properties of the spoon-wheel planter at diverse operating speeds, a single-factor simulation test of the spoon structures under vibrational conditions was implemented with the variation of the seed acceleration inside the spoon in the Y-direction as an evaluation index. The results indicated that the acceleration of seeds in the Y-direction in spoons (K2 ~ 5) were all less fluctuating than those in the original spoon (K1), and the multiple rate was the largest in spoon (K5), implying that the seeding performance of spoons (K2 ~ 4) was relatively more favorable. According to the results of the single-factor simulation test, a 3-factor and 4-level simulation orthogonal test was conducted with the working speed, the number and shapes of spoons as testing factors, and the qualified rate, multiple rate, leakage rate, and variation coefficient as evaluation indicators. The ultimate optimal working speed of the spoon-wheel maize precision planter in southwest China was identified as 3 km/h, with 22 spoons on the spoon-wheel disc, and the ideal spoon shape being K3. The bench validation test was executed under vibrational conditions based on the optimal spoon structure and operation settings of the seed-metering device. The qualified rate of the seed-metering device exceeded 94.5% at an operating speed of 3 ~ 4 km/h, while the multiple rate was less than 4%, the leakage rate was lower than 1.5%, and the variation coefficient was smaller than 25.5%. The variety adaptability test was launched when the working speed was 3 km/h. The qualified rate of various maize varieties were all more than 96.5%, the multiple and leakage rates were both less than 2%, which satisfies the technical requirements of the maize precision sowing in southwest China.
Bionic Nanotheranostic for Multimodal Imaging-Guided NIR-II-Photothermal Therapy of Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhang Yuxuan , Hang Lifeng , Zhang Tao , Luo Chuangcai , Li Wuming , Sun Yiqiang , Wen Hua , Chen Yiyu , Jiang Guihua , Ma Xiaofen
Published: August 2023

In photothermal therapy (PTT), the photothermal conversion of the second near-infrared (NIR-II) window allows deeper penetration and higher laser irradiance, and is considered a promising therapeutic strategy for deep tissues. Since lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, despite the numerous treatment options, we aimed to develop an improved bionic nanotheranostic for combined imaging and photothermal therapy of lung cancer. We combined gold nanobipyramid (Au NBP) as a photothermal agent and MnO2 as a magnetic-resonance enhancer to produce core/shell structures (Au@MnO2; AM) and modified their surfaces with homologous cancer-cell plasma membranes (PM) to enable tumor targeting. The performance of the resulting Au@MnO2@PM (AMP) nanotheranostic was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. AMP exhibits photothermal properties under NIR-II laser irradiation and has multimodal in-vitro imaging functions. AMP enables the computed tomography (CT), photothermal imaging (PTI), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of tumors. In particular, AMP exhibited a remarkable PTT effect on cancer cells in vitro and inhibited tumor cell growth under 1064 nm laser irradiation in vivo, with no significant systemic toxicity. This study achieved tumor therapy guided by multimodal imaging, thereby demonstrating a novel strategy for the use of bionic gold nanoparticles for tumor PTT under NIR-II laser irradiation.