bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and validation of cuproptosis-related genes in acetaminophen-induced liver injury using bioinformatics analysis and machine learning
Authors: Guo Zhenya , Liu Jiaping , Liang Guozhi , Liang Haifeng , Zhong Mingbei , Tomlinson Stephen , He Songqing , Ouyang Guoqing , Yuan Guandou
Published: June 2024

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP) is commonly used as an antipyretic analgesic. However, acetaminophen overdose may contribute to liver injury and even liver failure. Acetaminophen-induced liver injury (AILI) is closely related to mitochondrial oxidative stress and dysfunction, which play critical roles in cuproptosis. Here, we explored the potential role of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in AILI.

Methods

The gene expression profiles were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differential expression of CRGs was determined between the AILI and control samples. Protein protein interaction, correlation, and functional enrichment analyses were performed. Machine learning was used to identify hub genes. Immune infiltration was evaluated. The AILI mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of APAP solution. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were used to validate hub gene expression in the AILI mouse model. The copper content in the mouse liver samples and AML12 cells were quantified using a colorimetric assay kit. Ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (ATTM), was administered to mouse models and AML12 cells in order to investigate the effects of copper chelator on AILI.

Results

The analysis identified 7,809 differentially expressed genes, 4,245 of which were downregulated and 3,564 of which were upregulated. Four optimal feature genes (OFGs; SDHB, PDHA1, NDUFB2, and NDUFB6) were identified through the intersection of two machine learning algorithms. Further nomogram, decision curve, and calibration curve analyses confirmed the diagnostic predictive efficacy of the four OFGs. Enrichment analysis indicated that the OFGs were involved in multiple pathways, such as IL-17 pathway and chemokine signaling pathway, that are related to AILI progression. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that macrophages were more abundant in AILI than in control samples, whereas eosinophils and endothelial cells were less abundant. Subsequently, the AILI mouse model was successfully established, and histopathological analysis using hematoxylin–eosin staining along with liver function tests revealed a significant induction of liver injury in the APAP group. Consistent with expectations, both mRNA and protein levels of the four OFGs exhibited a substantial decrease. The administration of ATTAM effectively mitigates copper elevation induced by APAP in both mouse model and AML12 cells. However, systemic administration of ATTM did not significantly alleviate AILI in the mouse model.

Conclusion

This study first revealed the potential role of CRGs in the pathological process of AILI and offered novel insights into its underlying pathogenesis.
Undercover lung damage in pediatrics - a hot spot in morbidity caused by collagenoses
Authors: Lupu Ancuta , Sasaran Maria Oana , Jechel Elena , Azoicai Alice , Alexoae Monica Mihaela , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Mocanu Adriana , Nedelcu Alin Horatiu , Knieling Anton , Salaru Delia Lidia , Burlea Stefan Lucian , Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Ioniuc Ileana
Published: June 2024

Connective tissue represents the support matrix and the connection between tissues and organs. In its composition, collagen, the major structural protein, is the main component of the skin, bones, tendons and ligaments. Especially at the pediatric age, its damage in the context of pathologies such as systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma or dermatomyositis can have a significant negative impact on the development and optimal functioning of the body. The consequences can extend to various structures (e.g., joints, skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys). Of these, we retain and reveal later in our manuscript, mainly the respiratory involvement. Manifested in various forms that can damage the chest wall, pleura, interstitium or vascularization, lung damage in pediatric systemic inflammatory diseases is underdeveloped in the literature compared to that described in adults. Under the threat of severe evolution, sometimes rapidly progressive and leading to death, it is necessary to increase the popularization of information aimed at physiopathological triggering and maintenance mechanisms, diagnostic means, and therapeutic directions among medical specialists. In addition, we emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, especially between pediatricians, rheumatologists, infectious disease specialists, pulmonologists, and immunologists. Through our narrative review we aimed to bring up to date, in a concise and easy to assimilate, general principles regarding the pulmonary impact of collagenoses using the most recent articles published in international libraries, duplicated by previous articles, of reference for the targeted pathologies.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of novel Polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers containing Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract
Authors: Husen Chou-Yi , Abdul-Reda Hussein Uday , Mohammed Amjed Qasim , Ramzy Muhammad Eman , Al-Majdi Kadhum , Radi Usama Kadem , Ami Ahmed Ali , Kareem Anaheed Hussein , Ahmad Irfan , Al-Shuwaili Saeb Jasim , Huseen Redhee Ahmed
Published: June 2024

This study involved the preparation of the Saudi Arabian Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract and the production of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanofibers that contained the Saudi Arabian C. angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract. The reason for using polyvinylpyrrolidone is its bioactivity and its physical and chemical properties. The structure and characterization of the newly synthesized nanofiber were confirmed using the Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image, N2 adsorption–desorption curve, hydrophilicity, compressive strength, and flexural strength. The biological activity, including anticancer properties against skin cancer cells and bone cancer cells and antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, was assessed. The average diameter and the specific surface area of the synthesized polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers containing the Saudi Arabian Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract were 87 nm and 1,108 m2/g, respectively. High hydrophilicity compared to polyvinylpyrrolidone (contact angle of synthetic nanofibers was 21° and for polyvinylpyrrolidone was 52°), high compressive strength compared to polyvinylpyrrolidone (61.23 N/mm2 and 34.52 N/mm2, respectively), and high flexural strength compared to polyvinylpyrrolidone (16.1 N/mm2 and 11.4 N/mm2, respectively) were other characteristics of the synthesized polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers containing the Saudi Arabian Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract. In the biological activities of the synthesized nanofiber, unique properties were observed. Regarding the anticancer activity, the IC50 values against skin cancer cells and bone cancer cells were observed to be 19.59 μg/mL and 29.57 μg/mL, respectively. For the antimicrobial activity, the MIC value between 4 and 128 mg/mL was observed. The biological activities of the synthesized polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers containing the Saudi Arabian Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract were higher than those of the Saudi Arabian Cassia angustifolia Vahl methanolic extract. The biological properties can be enhanced by various factors, including the high specific surface area of the synthesized nanofiber.
Differences in the pathogenicity and molecular characteristics of fowl adenovirus serotype 4 epidemic strains in Guangxi Province, southern China
Authors: Wei You , Xie Zhiqin , Xie Zhixun , Deng Xianwen , Li Xiaofeng , Xie Liji , Fan Qing , Zhang Yanfang , Wang Sheng , Ren Hongyu , Wan Lijun , Luo Sisi , Li Meng
Published: June 2024

Starting in 2015, the widespread prevalence of hydropericardium-hepatitis syndrome (HHS) has led to considerable financial losses within China’s poultry farming industry. In this study, pathogenicity assessments, whole-genome sequencing, and analyses were conducted on 10 new isolates of the novel genotype FAdV-4 during a HHS outbreak in Guangxi Province, China, from 2019 to 2020. The results indicated that strains GX2019-010 to GX2019-013 and GX2019-015 to GX2019-018 were highly virulent, while strain GX2020-019 exhibited moderate virulence. Strain GX2019-014 was characterized as a wild-type strain with low virulence, displaying no pathogenic effects when 0.5 mL containing 106 TCID50 virus was inoculated into the muscle of specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens at 4 weeks of age, while 107 TCID50 and 108 TCID50 resulted in mortality rates of 80 and 100%, respectively. The whole genomes of strains GX2019-010 to GX2019-013, GX2019-015 to GX2019-018, and GX2020-019 showed high homology with other Chinese newly emerging highly pathogenic FAdV-4 strains, whereas GX2019-014 was closer to nonmutant strains and shared the same residues with known nonpathogenic strains (B1-7, KR5, and ON1) at positions 219AA and 380AA of the Fiber-2 protein. Our work enriches the research on prevalent strains of FAdV-4 in China, expands the knowledge on the virulence diversity of the novel genotype FAdV-4, and provides valuable reference material for further investigations into the key virulence-associated genetic loci of FAdV-4.
SFRP4 protein expression is reduced in high grade astrocytomas which is not caused by the methylation of its promoter
Authors: Kafka Anja , Pećina-Šlaus Nives , Drmić Denis , Bukovac Anja , Njirić Niko , Žarković Kamelija , Jakovčević Antonia
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Epigenetics play a vital role in stratifying CNS tumors and gliomas. The importance of studying Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) in gliomas is to improve diffuse glioma methylation profiling. Here we examined the methylation status of SFRP4 promoter and the level of its protein expression in diffuse gliomas WHO grades 2–4.

Methods

SFRP4 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and evaluated semi-quantitatively. In the tumor hot-spot area, the intensity of protein expression in 200 cells was determined using ImageJ (National Institutes of Health, United States). The assessment of immunopositivity was based on the IRS score (Immunoreactivity Score). Promoter methylation was examined by methylation specific-PCR (MSP) in fifty-one diffuse glioma samples and appropriate controls. Isolated DNA was treated with bisulfite conversion and afterwards used for MSP. Public databases (cBioPortal, COSMIC and LOVD) were searched to corroborate the results.

Results and discussion

SFRP4 protein expression in glioblastomas was very weak or non-existent in 86.7% of samples, moderate in 13.3%, while strong expression was not observed. The increase in astrocytoma grade resulted in SFRP4 protein decrease (p = 0.008), indicating the loss of its antagonistic role in Wnt signaling. Promoter methylation of SFRP4 gene was found in 16.3% of cases. Astrocytomas grade 2 had significantly more methylated cases compared to grade 3 astrocytomas (p = 0.004) and glioblastomas (p < 0.001), which may indicate temporal niche of methylation in grade 2. Furthermore, the expression levels of SFRP4 were high in samples with methylated SFRP4 promoter and low or missing in unmethylated cases (Pearson’s R = −0.413; p = 0.003). We also investigated the association of SFRP4 changes to key Wnt regulators GSK3β and DKK3 and established a positive correlation between methylations of SFRP4 and GSK3β (Pearson’s R = 0.323; p = 0.03). Furthermore, SFRP4 expression was correlated to unmethylated DKK3 (Chi square = 7.254; p = 0.027) indication that Wnt signaling antagonist is associated to negative regulator’s demethylation.

Conclusion

The study contributes to the recognition of the significance of epigenetic changes in diffuse glioma indicating that restoring SFRP4 protein holds potential as therapeutic avenue. Reduced expression of SFRP4 in glioblastomas, not following promoter methylation pattern, suggests another mechanism, possible global methylation, that turns off SFRP4 expression in higher grades.
Dietary patterns suggest that dark chocolate intake may have an inhibitory effect on oral cancer: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Zhang Zhaoyin , Wu Sijie , Zhu Yuanzhi , Liang Tao , Huang Xiong , Yao Jinguang
Published: June 2024

Background

Previous studies reported that variations in dietary intake patterns substantially impact human health, specifically tumorigenesis. However, confounding factors in previous cohort studies have obscured the relationship between dietary differences and the risk of oral cancer (OC).

Materials and methods

We developed an outcome dataset from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data on three OCs within the GAME-ON project, using GWAS-META merging. We extracted 21 dietary exposures, including 10 dietary patterns, 6 vitamins, and 5 micronutrients, from the UK Biobank database, using the inverse variance weighting method as the primary statistical method. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to detect heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Serum metabolite concentrations were adjusted using multivariate Mendelian randomization.

Results

Of the 10 analyzed dietary patterns, 8 showed no significant association with the risk of developing OC. Consumption of dark chocolate (inverse variance weighted [IVW]: Odds ratio (OR) = 0.786, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.622–0.993, p = 0.044) and sweet pepper exhibited an inverse relationship with OC risk (IVW: OR = 0.757, 95% CI: 0.574–0.997, p = 0.048). Reverse MR analysis revealed no reverse causality. Furthermore, no significant correlation was observed between the intake of 6 vitamins and 5 micronutrients and the risk of developing OC. After using multivariable MR to adjust for serum caffeine, linoleate, theophylline, and theobromine metabolism levels, consuming dark chocolate was unrelated to a decreased risk of OC. After adjusting each serum metabolite individually, the observed p-values deviated from the original values to varying degrees, indicating that the components of dark chocolate could have different effects. Among these components, theophylline demonstrated the most significant inhibitory effect.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a causal relationship between the intake of dark chocolate and sweet peppers and a lower risk of OC. The components of dark chocolate could have different effects.
Association between nutritional literacy and nutrition label use in Chinese community residents
Authors: Yang Ling , Cui Yan , Du Jing , Liu Zihao , Duan Ying , Qi Qi , Liu Huaqing , Zhang Min
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Nutritional literacy (NL) has a critical influence on food choices. The objective of the present study was to examine the association of NL with nutrition label use.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Bengbu, China. In total, 955 adults were interviewed using a questionnaire designed for the present study to collect information on demographics, lifestyle, nutrition label use, and NL. Binary logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for nutrition label use and its predictive variables.

Results

In total, 40.4% of the participants reported looking at nutrition label when purchasing prepackaged foods. NL was significantly positively associated with nutrition label use and specifically with checking nutrition facts table, purported nutrition benefits and purported health benefits. In terms of specific facets of NL, nutrition knowledge, applying skills, and critical skills were associated with nutrition label use. After stratification by monthly income and education, the association between NL and nutrition label use was discovered only in individuals with low monthly income. Additionally, nutrition knowledge was associated with nutrition label use only in adults with high education level, whereas applying skills were associated with nutrition label use only in those with low education level.

Conclusion

The use of nutrition label remains low among Chinese community residents, especially the purported nutritional benefits and purported health benefits. NL is positively associated with nutrition label use, especially with respect to functional and critical NL, with differences based on socioeconomic status. The findings highlight the need for NL interventions targeting individuals with different levels of education and income to encourage use of nutrition label in China.
Understanding the support for gender-based harassment perpetrators: the role of closeness and empathy
Authors: Borges-Castells Nira , Betancor Verónica , Rodríguez-Pérez Armando
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Gender-based harassment is a pressing social challenge urgently demanding eradication. While social movements emphasize supporting victims, societal responses sometimes lean toward exculpating perpetrators. This study examines two factors influencing this exoneration: closeness to perpetrators and empathy focus.

Methods

A total of 345 participants took part in an experimental design to assess how closeness to perpetrators (close vs. distant) and empathy focus (on the perpetrator vs. victim vs. control) impact the moral justification of harassment and the dehumanization of both parties.

Results and discussion

Results indicate that closeness and empathizing with perpetrators lead to greater leniency—more moral justification and less dehumanization of the perpetrator. Heightened moral justification for close perpetrators is mediated by increased empathy toward them and decreased empathy for victims, and reduced dehumanization of close perpetrators corresponds to heightened empathy toward them. This research highlights how closeness and empathy, two initially positive factors, can foster tolerance toward gender harassment.
Case report: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder after tonsillectomy
Authors: Ahmed Gellan K. , Karim Ahmed A. , Khedr Eman M. , Elbeh Khaled , Moheb Amira , Abokresha Marwa , Haridy Nourelhoda A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a newly classified eating disorder that requires further understanding of its presentation. There is no previous report of ARFID in a child post-tonsillectomy. ARFID may be a potential negative outcome for children following oropharyngeal surgery.

Case presentation

A female child aged 10 years and 2 months presented with ARFID associated with depression, anxiety and nutritional deficiency following tonsillectomy. She had more difficulty in swallowing solids than fluids and had repeated vomiting and spitting food after chewing it. She became dehydrated and malnourished with a BMI of 10.5 and was misdiagnosed with myasthenic gravis.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of ARFID in a child post-tonsillectomy. We discuss the pathophysiology of ARFID, which remains elusive, and recommend psychiatric assessment when evaluating children post operative tonsillectomy.
The attitudes of nonpsychiatric nurses towards mental disorders in China
Authors: Wang Qi-Kai , Wang Xu , Qiu Ya-Jing , Bao Wen-Xin , Chen Xia-Can , Xu Jia-Jun
Published: June 2024

Background

Few studies have explored the associated factors of attitudes of nonpsychiatric nurses towards mental disorders. Therefore, this study is aimed to evaluate the attitudes of nonpsychiatric nurses towards mental disorders and especially explore the association between psychiatric clinical practice and these attitudes.

Methods

A total of 1324 nonpsychiatric nurses and students majoring in nursing were recruited through an online questionnaire from December 2021 to March 2022 in Sichuan Province, China. Demographic information, personal care experience, psychiatric nursing education and the Community Attitudes towards the Mentally Ill (CAMI) were collected. A higher score indicates a stigmatizing attitude in the authoritarianism and social restrictiveness (SR) subscales and a positive attitude in the benevolence and community mental health ideology (CMHI) subscales. Multivariate linear regression was employed to analyze associated factors of attitudes towards mental disorders, and hierarchical linear regression was used to analyze the association between psychiatric clinical practice and the attitudes towards mental disorders.

Results

Under the control of confounders, high education level, long residence in urban and personal care experience were positively correlated with score of authoritarianism and SR (p < 0.05), and negatively correlated with score of benevolence (p < 0.05). Long residence in urban and personal care experience were negatively correlated with score of CMHI (p < 0.05). Hierarchical linear regression analysis showed that after adjusting for demographic information, psychiatric clinical practice was associated with lower score of benevolence (B = -0.09, 95%CI = -0.17 ~ -0.003, p = 0.043) and CMHI (B = -0.09, 95%CI = -0.17 ~ -0.01, p = 0.027), but the initial associations between psychiatric clinical practice and authoritarianism, SR disappeared.

Conclusions

High education level, long residence in urban, personal care experience and the psychiatric clinical practice were associated with the discrimination of nonpsychiatric nurses towards mental disorders. Further exploring practical strategies to optimize the psychiatric clinical practice experience of nonpsychiatric nurses could help improve their attitudes towards mental disorders.
Exposure of Syrian refugee agricultural workers to pesticides in Lebanon: a socio-economic and political lens
Authors: Noory Bandar , Habib Rima R. , Nuwayhid Iman
Published: June 2024

This article adopts a socio-economic and political lens to elucidate the interplay of factors that heighten the vulnerability of Syrian refugee agricultural workers and their exposure to pesticides in Lebanon. It provides a comprehensive understanding for the interconnected social, political and economic factors at the global, regional, national and local levels and how they increase the vulnerability of Syrian refugee agricultural workers, particularly their exposure to pesticides. The global factors highlight the shifts from colonialism to state-controlled economies to neoliberal policies. These changes have prioritized the interests of large agricultural schemes and multinationals at the expense of small and medium-sized agriculture. Consequently, there has been a boost in pesticides demand, coupled with weak regulations and less investment in agriculture in the countries of the Global South. The article explains how the dynamic interaction of climate change and conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa region has negatively impacted the agriculture sector and food production, which led to an increased potential for pesticide use. At the national and local levels, Lebanon’s social, political and economic policies have resulted in the weakening of the agricultural sector, the overuse of pesticides, and the intensification of the Syrian refugee agricultural workers’ vulnerability and exposure to pesticides. The article recommends that researchers, policymakers, and practitioners adopt a political-economic-social lens to analyze and address the full dynamic situation facing migrant and refugee workers in Lebanon and other countries and promote equity in the agricultural sector globally.
Selective orthotic constraint of lower limb movement during walking reveals new insights into neuromuscular adaptation
Authors: Hovorka Christopher F. , Kogler Géza F. , Chang Young-Hui , Gregor Robert J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

A concern expressed by the clinical community is that the constraint of motion provided by an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) may lead the user to become dependent on its stiffness, leading to learned non-use. To examine this, we hypothesized that using an experimental AFO-footwear combination (exAFO-FC) that constrains ankle motion during walking would result in reduced soleus and tibialis anterior EMG compared to free (exAFO-FC) and control (no AFO, footwear only) conditions.

Method

A total of 14 healthy subjects walked at their preferred speed (1.34 ± 0.09 m·s-1) for 15 min, in three conditions, namely, control, free, and stop.

Results

During the stance phase of walking in the stop condition, ipsilateral soleus integrated EMG (iEMG) declined linearly, culminating in a 32.1% reduction compared to the control condition in the final 5 min interval of the protocol. In contrast, ipsilateral tibialis anterior iEMG declined in a variable fashion culminating in an 11.2% reduction compared to control in the final 5 min interval. During the swing phase, the tibialis anterior iEMG increased by 6.6% compared to the control condition during the final 5 min interval. The contralateral soleus and tibialis anterior exhibited increased iEMG in the stop condition.

Discussion

An AFO-FC functions as a biomechanical motion control device that influences the neural control system and alters the output of muscles experiencing constraints of motion.
Design, Modeling, and Vibration Control of a Damper Based on Magnetorheological Fluid and Elastomer
Authors: Jin Zhuang , Yang Fufeng , Rui Xiaoting , Jiang Min , Wang Jiaqi
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to propose a damper based on magnetorheological (MR) fluid and elastomer for application in vehicle engine mounting systems to dissipate the vibration energy transferred from the engine to the vehicle body. The magnetic circuit structure of the damper has been precisely designed, and its reasonableness has been verified by static magnetic field simulation. After the principle prototype’s completion, the damper’s mechanical properties are tested by an electro–hydraulic servo fatigue machine. The results show that with the current increase, the damper’s in-phase stiffness increases by 20.6%. The equivalent damping improves by 81.6%, which indicates that the damper has a good MR effect. A new phenomenological model is proposed, and a genetic algorithm is used to identify the parameters of the model. Finally, a 1/4 vehicle engine vibration damping system model is established and a dynamics simulation is carried out. The simulation results show that the damper effectively reduces the vibration transmitted from the engine to the body, and the vibration-damping effect is even more obvious through sky-hook control. This proves that the damper proposed in this study has good vibration-damping performance.
Hybrid Control of Soft Robotic Manipulator
Authors: Garriga-Casanovas Arnau , Shakib Fahim , Ferrandy Varell , Franco Enrico
Published: June 2024

Soft robotic manipulators consisting of serially stacked segments combine actuation and structure in an integrated design. This design can be miniaturised while providing suitable actuation for potential applications that may include endoluminal surgery and inspections in confined environments. The control of these robots, however, remains challenging, due to the difficulty in accurately modelling the robots, in coping with their redundancies, and in solving their full inverse kinematics. In this work, we explore a hybrid approach to control serial soft robotic manipulators that combines machine learning (ML) to estimate the inverse kinematics with closed-loop control to compensate for the remaining errors. For the ML part, we compare various approaches, including both kernel-based learning and more general neural networks. We validate the selected ML model experimentally. For the closed-loop control part, we first explore Jacobian formulations using both synthetic models and numerical approximations from experimental data. We then implement integral control actions using both these Jacobians, and evaluate them experimentally. In an experimental validation, we demonstrate that the hybrid control approach achieves setpoint regulation in a robot with six inputs and four outputs.
Interference Study of 5G System on Civil Aircraft Airborne Beidou RDSS System in Takeoff and Landing Phase
Authors: Chen Wantong , Tian Yuyin , Sun Shuguang , Liu Ruihua
Published: June 2024

Radio Determination Satellite Service (RDSS) is a characteristic service of BeiDou, which can provide users with short message communication services. Since the working frequency of an RDSS system is close to that of a 5G system, the RDSS system is very susceptible to interference from 5G out-of-band radiation. This paper analyzes the compatibility of 5G interference with an RDSS system from the perspective of the signal and the system. Firstly, the compatibility assessment is carried out from the perspective of the signal, the impact of interference on the capture and tracking performance of BeiDou is illustrated, and the safe coexistence distance of the two systems from the perspective of capture probability is obtained from the perspective of the signal. Subsequently, based on the link budget criterion, the interference of 5G base stations and 5G terminals to RDSS receivers under different frequency isolation and the required distance isolation for safe coexistence are analyzed from the system perspective. Finally, from the perspective of civil aviation safety, the aggregate interference is used as an evaluation index to evaluate the interference suffered by the aircraft during takeoff and landing and to obtain the interference suffered by the ground-based 5G base station during the takeoff and landing of the aircraft on different routes and in different 5G propagation environments. The simulation results show that when the airplane is closer to the ground, the ground 5G base stations will cause harmful interference to the RDSS receiver. In this study, the real flight data are combined with the simulation model to obtain the exact influence range of 5G interference on the RDSS system under different viewpoints.
Matrix-Matched Calibration for the Quantitative Analysis of Pesticides in Pepper and Wheat Flour: Selection of the Best Calibration Model
Authors: Veiga-del-Baño José Manuel , Oliva José , Cámara Miguel Ángel , Andreo-Martínez Pedro , Motas Miguel
Published: June 2024

An automated package for calculating the best calibration model for matrix-matched calibration in food pesticide analysis has been developed in this study. The algorithm development in the package is based on three requirements for routine food pesticide analysis: a good working range fitness for samples with high maximum residue limits (MRLs), detection capability for pesticide analysis with MRLs close to the limit of quantitation, and a simple working range problem detection model. The requirements are combined in a simple scoring system above 100. The package has been tested in the analysis of pesticides of pepper and wheat flour. The results show that the package can be used for different pesticides quickly and visually, and also allows evaluation of matrix effects between different matrix calibrations. For the pesticides tested with the package, the weighted linear calibration gave the best score over the simple linear calibration and second-order calibration.
Investigating the Diversity and Influencing Factors of the Rhizosphere Bacterial Community Associated with Salicornia europaea L. Populations in Semi-arid Grassland
Authors: Wang Hai , Chun Liang , Ji Lei , Na Risu , Wei Zhijun , Han Wenjun
Published: June 2024

Salicornia europaea L. is a well-known model plant for studying the mechanism of salt tolerance. A substantial decline in the S. europaea population has been observed in the semi-arid steppe of the Mongolian Plateau. The relationship between environmental factors and its population dynamics in the grassland ecosystem remains inadequately investigated. Rhizosphere microbial communities, representing the most direct and influential biological factors affecting plant populations, have received limited research attention in the context of halophytes. Four density treatments of S. europaea (bare land—SEB, low density—SEL, medium density—SEM, and high density—SEH) in a single-factor randomized-block design with five replications were established to evaluate the relationship between rhizosphere soil bacterial communities and environmental factors. The results showed that as the density of S. europaea increased, the soil pH decreased, while available phosphorus increased. Rhizosphere soil bacterial communities associated with S. europaea populations in the saline-alkali wetland were dominated by Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteria, Gemmatimonadota, and Halobacterota. Notably, the genera Antarcticibacterium, Wenzhouxiangella, BD2-11_terrestrial_groupBD2-11, Halomonas, and Natronorubrum were found to be particularly abundant. The Simpson index of the rhizosphere soil bacterial community in the S. europaea treatments was significantly higher than that in bare land. Soil pH and nitrate nitrogen were the primary environmental drivers of the rhizosphere bacterial community. Overall, the rhizosphere soil’s bacterial diversity in saline wetlands under a high-salt environment was not affected by the decrease in the S. europaea population. S. europaea plays an important role in shaping soil bacterial community structure through its influence on the surrounding soil environment. The cultivation of S. europaea is a phytoremediation strategy to improve soil salinization.
Evolution of Local Temperature after Thermal Disbudding in Calves: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Zaha Cristian , Schuszler Larisa , Dascalu Roxana , Nistor Paula , Florea Tiana , Proteasa Adelina , Rujescu Ciprian , Igna Cornel
Published: June 2024

Thermal disbudding and dehorning are very common techniques employed for the removal of horn buds in dairy calves. Infrared thermography was used to determine the local temperature before the thermal disbudding procedure, five seconds into the procedure, and two hours after the procedure was finished. Background: Some studies have used thermography to evaluate the local temperature after applying a hot-iron device to produce a permanently visible mark on calves. Our objective was to evaluate the local temperature and the thermal pattern following hot-iron disbudding and to certify that the local temperature reaches the value at which tissues undergo necrosis. Methods: Calves (n = 36) were subjected to thermography scanning of the horn bud area before the thermal disbudding procedure, five seconds into the procedure, and two hours after the procedure was finished. Results: Differences in local temperature before and after hot-iron disbudding were observed. The mean and the maximum temperature of the horn bud area increased in value after the disbudding procedure, leading to changes in the overall thermal pattern. Conclusions: Thermography of the horn bud area before and after thermal disbudding allows for the identification of changes in local temperature and thermal pattern. The local temperature obtained after the hot-iron disbudding procedure exceeds the temperature required for tissue necrosis. Thermographic evaluations help us to effectively discriminate between superficial burns and deep burns such as those induced by hot-iron disbudding.
Antioxidant and Stress Resistance Properties of Flavonoids from Chinese Sea Buckthorn Leaves from the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zhao Jinmei , Jiang Yumei , Bi Yang , Wei Juan
Published: June 2024

The unique ecological environment of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau has endowed Chinese sea buckthorn leaves with rich bioactivities. In this study, we investigated the bioactivity and stress resistance mechanisms of flavonoids derived from Chinese sea buckthorn leaves (FCL) native to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Our analysis identified a total of 57 flavonoids, mainly flavonol glycosides, from FCL, of which 6 were novel flavonoids. Isorhamnetin glycosides, quercetin glycosides and kaempferol glycosides were the three most dominant classes of compounds in FCL. In particular, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside emerged as the most abundant compound. Our results showed that FCL possesses potent antioxidant properties, as evidenced by its ability to effectively scavenge DPPH free radicals and demonstrate ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) levels comparable to Trolox, a well-known antioxidant standard. Furthermore, FCL showed remarkable efficacy in reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels while enhancing the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), in Caenorhabditis elegans, a widely used model organism. Mechanistically, we elucidated that FCL exerts its stress resistance effects by modulating of transcription factors DAF-16 and HSF-1 within the insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathway (IIS). Activation of these transcription factors orchestrates the expression of downstream target genes including sod-3, ctl-1, hsp16.2, and hsp12.6, thus enhancing the organism’s ability to cope with stressors. Overall, our study highlights the rich reservoir of flavonoids in Chinese sea buckthorn leaves as promising candidates for natural medicines, due to their robust antioxidant properties and ability to enhance stress resistance.
Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus plantarum Enhance Immune Function and Antioxidant Capacity in Cats through Modulation of the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Dong Hao , Chang Xiaohan , Chen Qianqian , Wang Longjiao , Chen Shuxing , Chen Lishui , Wang Ran , Ge Shaoyang , Wang Pengjie , Li Yixuan , Liu Siyuan , Xiong Wei
Published: June 2024

Gastrointestinal (GI) afflictions are prevalent among the feline population, wherein the intricacies of the gut microbiome exert a profound influence on their overall health. Alterations within this microbial consortium can precipitate a cascade of physiological changes, notably in immune function and antioxidant capacity. This research investigated the impact of Bifidobacterium lactis (B. lactis) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on cats’ GI health, exploring the effects of probiotic supplementation on the intestinal ecosystem using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The findings demonstrated a significant improvement in gut barrier function by reducing plasma concentrations of D-lactate (D-LA) by 30.38% and diamine oxidase (DAO) by 22.68%, while increasing the population of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus. There was a notable 25% increase in immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels, evidenced by increases of 19.13% in catalase (CAT), 23.94% in superoxide dismutase (SOD), and 21.81% in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Further analysis revealed positive correlations between Lactobacillus abundance and IgA, CAT, and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) levels. These correlations indicate that B. lactis and L. plantarum enhance feline immune and antioxidant functions by increasing the abundance of beneficial Lactobacillus in the GI tract. These findings provide a foundation for probiotic interventions aimed at enhancing health and disease resistance in feline populations.
Identification of Interleukin (IL)-33 Inhibitory Constituents from Canavalia gladiata Pods
Authors: Vinh Le Ba , Shin Seung Hyuck , Han Yoo Kyong , Kim Young Jun , Cuong Nguyen Cao , Oh Soohwan , Lee Ki Yong
Published: June 2024

Interleukin (IL)-33, a member of the IL-1 cytokine family, plays a vital role in immune system regulation and inflammation, with oxidative stress being implicated in its expression. During the search for compounds from natural sources with potential as therapeutic agents for allergic diseases via IL-33 signal modulation, we discovered significant IL-33 inhibitory activity in the methanol extract of Canavalia gladiata (sword bean) pods. Through chromatographic separation and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, we isolated 11 compounds (1–11) from the methanol extract. Furthermore, we assessed the inhibitory effects of these substances on IL-33/ST2 signaling in processes related to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Among them, compounds 7, 10, and 11 exhibited substantial IL-33 inhibitory efficacy, with values reaching 78%, 86%, and 79% at 100 µM, respectively. Remarkably, compounds 7, 10, and 11 demonstrated significant and dose-dependent inhibition of IL-33 signaling at concentrations of 10, 50, and 100 µM. Computational molecular docking and dynamic simulations further elucidated the underlying mechanisms. These findings have promising pharmacological implications for allergy prevention and treatment associated with flavonoid glycosides derived from C. gladiata.
Anti-Ferroptotic Treatment Deteriorates Myocardial Infarction by Inhibiting Angiogenesis and Altering Immune Response
Authors: Stairley Rebecca A. , Trouten Allison M. , Li Shuang , Roddy Patrick L. , DeLeon-Pennell Kristine Y. , Lee Kyu-Ho , Sucov Henry M. , Liu Chun , Tao Ge
Published: June 2024

Mammalian cardiomyocytes have limited regenerative ability. Cardiac disease, such as congenital heart disease and myocardial infarction, causes an initial loss of cardiomyocytes through regulated cell death (RCD). Understanding the mechanisms that govern RCD in the injured myocardium is crucial for developing therapeutics to promote heart regeneration. We previously reported that ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic and iron-dependent form of RCD, is the main contributor to cardiomyocyte death in the injured heart. To investigate the mechanisms underlying the preference for ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes, we examined the effects of anti-ferroptotic reagents in infarcted mouse hearts. The results revealed that the anti-ferroptotic reagent did not improve neonatal heart regeneration, and further compromised the cardiac function of juvenile hearts. On the other hand, ferroptotic cardiomyocytes played a supportive role during wound healing by releasing pro-angiogenic factors. The inhibition of ferroptosis in the regenerating mouse heart altered the immune and angiogenic responses. Our study provides insights into the preference for ferroptosis over other types of RCD in stressed cardiomyocytes, and guidance for designing anti-cell-death therapies for treating heart disease.
Dimethyl Fumarate Mediates Sustained Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Remodeling in a Mouse Model of Cerebral Aneurysm
Authors: Martinez Alejandra N. , Tortelote Giovane G. , Pascale Crissey L. , Ekanem Uduak-Obong I. , Leite Ana Paula de O. , McCormack Isabella G. , Dumont Aaron S.
Published: June 2024

Cerebral aneurysms (CA) are a type of vascular disease that causes significant morbidity and mortality with rupture. Dysfunction of the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from circle of Willis (CoW) vessels mediates CA formation, as they are the major cell type of the arterial wall and play a role in maintaining vessel integrity. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a first-line oral treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, has been shown to inhibit VSMC proliferation and reduce CA formation in a mouse model. Potential unwanted side effects of DMF on VSMC function have not been investigated yet. The present study characterizes the impact of DMF on VSMC using single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) in CoW vessels following CA induction and further explores its role in mitochondrial function using in vitro VSMC cultures. Two weeks of DMF treatment following CA induction impaired the transcription of the glutathione redox system and downregulated mitochondrial respiration genes in VSMCs. In vitro, DMF treatment increased lactate formation and enhanced the mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These effects rendered VSMCs vulnerable to oxidative stress and led to mitochondrial dysfunction and enhancement of apoptosis. Taken together, our data support the concept that the DMF-mediated antiproliferative effect on VSMCs is linked to disturbed antioxidative functions resulting in altered mitochondrial metabolism. This negative impact of DMF treatment on VSMCs may be linked to preexisting alterations of cerebrovascular function due to renal hypertension. Therefore, before severe adverse effects emerge, it would be clinically relevant to develop indices or biomarkers linked to this disturbed antioxidative function to monitor patients undergoing DMF treatment.
The Cancer Antioxidant Regulation System in Therapeutic Resistance
Authors: Gu Xuanhao , Mu Chunyang , Zheng Rujia , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Qi , Liang Tingbo
Published: June 2024

Antioxidants play a pivotal role in neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are known to induce oxidative stress. In the context of cancer development, cancer cells adeptly maintain elevated levels of both ROS and antioxidants through a process termed “redox reprogramming”. This balance optimizes the proliferative influence of ROS while simultaneously reducing the potential for ROS to cause damage to the cell. In some cases, the adapted antioxidant machinery can hamper the efficacy of treatments for neoplastic diseases, representing a significant facet of the resistance mechanisms observed in cancer therapy. In this review, we outline the contribution of antioxidant systems to therapeutic resistance. We detail the fundamental constituents of these systems, encompassing the central regulatory mechanisms involving transcription factors (of particular importance is the KEAP1/NRF2 signaling axis), the molecular effectors of antioxidants, and the auxiliary systems responsible for NADPH generation. Furthermore, we present recent clinical trials based on targeted antioxidant systems for the treatment of cancer, assessing the potential as well as challenges of this strategy in cancer therapy. Additionally, we summarize the pressing issues in the field, with the aim of illuminating a path toward the emergence of novel anticancer therapeutic approaches by orchestrating redox signaling.
Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted Images Based on Preprocessing-Free Variable Threshold Secret Sharing
Authors: Jiang Chao , Zhang Minqing , Zhang Xiong , Di Fuqiang
Published: June 2024

To solve the limitations of reversible data hiding in encrypted domains (RDH-ED) that cannot be applied to a distributed variable security environment, a novel RDH-ED scheme based on variable threshold image secret sharing (VTSIS) is proposed. Initially, a security vulnerability analysis of existing changing thresholds in a bivariate polynomial-based secret image sharing (TCSIS) method is conducted and validated through experiments. Subsequently, enhancements are made to the VTSIS scheme to rectify the identified security loopholes. During the image encryption process, additional data can be embedded into the redundancy of VTSIS, which results in a large embedding rate and high security. Finally, theoretical analysis and experimental proofs are carried out for the proposed scheme, and the results show that our scheme broadens the application scenarios of RDH-ED. Notably, the scheme eliminates the need for preprocessing and has the advantages of high security, a large embedding rate, and complete reversibility.