bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of novel inhibitors from Urtica spp against MDAMB-231 targeting JAK 2 receptor for breast cancer therapy
Authors: Upreti Shobha , Muduli Kartik , Pradhan Jagannath , Elangovan Selvakumar , Samant Mukesh
Published: June 2023

Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in women globally, and MDA-MB-231 or TNBC (Triple-negative breast cancer) is its aggressive type since it lacks the usual targets. JAK2/STAT3 pathway can be an important lead in anticancer drug discovery, as restraining the downstream signalling of this pathway results in the induction of cell apoptosis. Moreover, various limitations associated with chemotherapy are the reason to find an alternative herbal-based therapy. For this study, we collected Urtica dioica, and U. parviflora from different regions of Uttarakhand, followed by preparation of their leaf and stem extracts in different solvents. The GC-MS analysis of these extracts revealed a total of 173 compounds to be present in them. Further, by molecular docking approach, we studied the interaction between these compounds and JAK2, and 12 major compounds with better binding energy than the control Paclitaxel were identified. In addition, the selected hits were also reported to display better pharmacokinetic properties. The anticancer potential of these extracts was also evaluated by in vitro approach in the MDA-MB-231 cell line, and both extracts displayed significant anticancer activity. Hence, the findings in our study can be crucial in the area of herbal-based target-specific drug development against breast cancer.
An energetics tale of the 2022 mega-heatwave over central-eastern China
Authors: Zhang Tuantuan , Deng Yi , Yang Song , Zhang Henian , Dai Yongjiu , Chen Junwen
Published: June 2023

It remains a major challenge to attribute heatwave’s lifecycle characteristics quantitatively to interwoven atmospheric and surface actions. By constructing a process-resolving, energetics-based attribution framework (PREAF), here we quantitatively delineate the lifecycle of the unprecedented 2022 mega-heatwave over central-eastern China from a local energetics perspective. It is found that the cloudlessness induced radiative heating and atmospheric dynamics dominate the total energy buildup during the developing stage, while the land-atmosphere coupling and atmospheric horizontal advection act most effectively to sustain and terminate the heatwave, respectively. A reduction in anthropogenic aerosols provides a persistent positive contribution during the event, suggesting that pollution mitigation measures may actually increase the amplitudes of future heatwaves. With the PREAF, initial efforts are made to unravel culprits in a model’s sub-seasonal prediction of this mega-heatwave, demonstrating the framework’s potential for efficiently detecting the origins of climate extremes and quantitatively assessing the impacts of mitigation policies for sustainable development.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone: a novel biomarker for aggressive prostate cancer? Emerging evidence from a prospective study of radical prostatectomies
Authors: Kontogiannis Stavros , Markantes Georgios , Stamou Maria , Tsagkarakis Michail , Mamali Irini , Giannitsas Konstantinos , Perimenis Petros , Georgopoulos Neoklis , Athanasopoulos Anastasios
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE Prostate cancer patients are a heterogeneous group concerning the aggressiveness of the disease. The relationship of steroid hormones with the aggressiveness of prostate cancer is unclear. It is known that the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), inhibits prostate cancer cell lines in vitro. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship of AMH and steroid hormones with the aggressiveness of prostate cancer.METHODS This was a prospective study of consecutive radical prostatectomy patients. We measured the following hormones: total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, albumin, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione and AMH. The minimum follow-up after radical prostatectomy was 5 years. For the aggressiveness of prostate cancer, we considered the following 3 variables: post-operative Gleason Score (GS) ≥ 8, TNM pΤ3 disease and PSA biochemical recurrence (BCR).RESULTS In total, 91 patients were enrolled. The mean age and PSA was 64.8 years and 9.3 ng/dl, respectively. The median post-operative GS was 7. Low AMH blood levels were correlated with higher post-operative GS (p = 0.001), as well as with PSA BCR (p = 0.043). With pT3 disease, only albumin was (negatively) correlated (p = 0.008). ROC analysis showed that AMH is a good predictor of BCR (AUC 0.646, 95% CI 0.510–0.782, p = 0.043); a cut-off value of 3.06 ng/dl had a positive prognostic value of 71.4% and negative prognostic value of 63.3% for BCR. Cox regression analysis showed that AMH is a statistically significant and independent prognostic marker for BCR (p = 0.013). More precisely, for every 1 ng/ml of AMH rise, the probability for PSA BCR decreases by 20.8% (HR = 0.792). Moreover, in Kaplan-Meier analysis, disease-free survival is more probable in patients with AMΗ ≥ 3.06 ng/ml (p = 0.004).CONCLUSIONS Low AMH blood levels were correlated with aggressive prostate cancer in this radical prostatectomy cohort of patients. Therefore, AMH could be a prognostic biomarker for the aggressiveness of the disease.
Autoinflammatory Gene Mutations Associated with Eosinophilia and Asthma
Authors: alotaibi bashayr , Lopez Raquel , Garrido Carmen Venegas , Gonzalez Lucia , Khalidi Nader , Nair Parameswaran
Published: June 2023

Background
Respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are infrequently associated with auto-inflammatory diseases. We describe five patients with uncontrolled respiratory symptoms that were seen at St. Joesph’s Healthcare in Hamilton for severe asthma management diagnosed with rare autoinflammatory conditions using genetic molecular analysis.
Case presentation:
Five patients are included in this case series. Gene mutations associated with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), Yao syndrome, Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS), and Majeed syndrome were considered to explain partly the patient’s clinical manifestation after comprehensive clinical, biochemical, hematological investigations ruled out other disorders such as parasitosis, Allergic Bronchopulmonary Fungosis, Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Poly Angitis (EGPA), and Hypereosinophilia syndrome.
Conclusions
Complex patients initially presenting with respiratory conditions in addition to unexplained autoinflammatory conditions are a diagnostic challenge. Genetic molecular testing provides healthcare practitioners with useful information that may diagnose underlying auto-inflammatory diseases in undifferentiated patients. Role of inflammasome-activation in asthma and eosinophilia needs further investigation.
Global emergent responses of stream microbial energetics to glacier shrinkage
Authors: Kohler Tyler , Bourquin Massimo , Peter Hannes , Sinsabaugh Robert L. , Yvon-Durocher Gabriel , Battin Tom
Published: June 2023

Mountain and polar glaciers are melting worldwide. However, the downstream impacts of this unprecedented environmental change on elemental fluxes and microbial energetics in the glacier-fed streams (GFS) remains poorly understood at a global scale. This contrasts the relevance of GFSs in initiating the flow of some of the world’s largest river networks and providing clean water to large human populations. Here, by studying resource stoichiometry in 154 GFSs from Earth’s major mountain ranges, we show that these ecosystems are potentially carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) limited, where P limitation may become exacerbated and C limitation alleviated as glaciers shrink. Modeling threshold elemental ratios from extracellular enzymatic activities, we show that the microbial metabolism in GFSs is indeed C and P limited. This is consistent with low microbial carbon use efficiencies (CUE; median: 0.15) indicative of maintenance metabolism. Using space-for-time substitution approaches, we found increasing biomass of benthic primary producers potentially relieving the microbial metabolism from resource limitation as glaciers shrink. Furthermore, increasing streamwater temperature will stimulate microbial growth (temperature sensitivity: 0.62 electronvolts) in GFSs. Our study unveils responses of the microbial energetics to a greening and warming GFS environment, shifting ecosystem metabolism to autotrophy with consequences for related ecosystem C cycling.
Obstructed Thoracic Duct Stent in a Patient With Recurrence of Chyluria After Treatment
Authors: Hoa Tran Quoc , Cuong Nguyen Ngoc , Hoan Le , Hoang Nguyen , Long Hoang , Hoan Nguyen Cong , Luu Doan Tien
Published: June 2023

Background
Thoracic duct (TD) stenting is considered a possible treatment for some pathological conditions caused by TD obstruction, including chyluria. Several studies reported on the efficacy of TD stent treatment, but few studies have evaluated flow through the stent after being deployed. This report aims to describe the flow through a TD stent and the efficacy of renal-lymphatic fistula embolization in the treatment of chyluria.
Case presentation
we report a case of chyluria treated by TD stent previously, but the symptoms recurred after four months. The second intervention we found the stent was obstructed by debris. We recanalized the stent and successful catheterised the microcatheter through the stent retrograde into the TD then into the renal-lymphatic fistula branch. After embolization of that abnormal branch, no recurrent symptom of chyluria happened.
Conclusion
stent in the TD is foreign body which may be stuck by debris in the TD. The key to treatment of spontaneous chyluria might be the embolization of renal-lymphatic fistula.
Perceptions of indigenous Baganda men regarding the use of LARCs by their rural women
Authors: Kibonire Ronald Arineitwe , Mphuthi DAVID Ditaba
Published: June 2023

Many women's complications during pregnancy, labour, and postpartum are the leading causes of death worldwide. Contraceptives, particularly long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), are the most important and effective interventions for reducing maternal mortality. LARCs assist the mother in delaying pregnancy and permit extended intervals between births. However, the utilisation of LARCs remains low globally and in Uganda, partly due to inadequate male partner support. This study aimed to ascertain the perceptions of rural indigenous Ugandan men regarding the use of LARCs by rural women. The research was conducted in the Ugandan districts of Kiboga. Using purposeful sampling, ten married men aged 20 to 49 were selected for individual interviews. For face-to-face interviews, the researcher used semi-structured questions. Data analysis was performed by transcribing the interviews, arranging the field notes, organising and preserving the data, listening to recordings, perusing field notes and interviews, and then coding and categorising the data to identify the phenomenon's emergent themes. The study found that indigenous Baganda men had perceptions regarding their rural women's use of LARCs, and these perceptions acted as barriers to use. These included that adverse effects, fears, and desires. The study suggests strengthening social and behavioural change in communication, service delivery for LARCs, and monitoring and evaluation systems for LARCs. In addition, policymakers should foster a conducive environment for the provision of LARC services, and should prepare pre-service and in-service healthcare professionals to provide LARC services through health training institutions and universities.
WITHDRAWN: Landslide susceptibility mapping by Frequency Ratio and Fuzzy logic approach, a case study of Mogods and Hedil (Northern Tunisia)
Authors: KLAI Adel , KATLANE Rim , HADDAD Romdhane , RABIA Mohamed Chedly
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study is to produce a landslide susceptibility map in Mogods and Hedil using the fuzzy logic method. To increase the objectivity of the approach, the fuzzy membership was calculated using the frequency ratio (FR). Nine factors were considered for landslide control, including slope, aspect, plan curvature, profil curvature, distance from faults, distance from rivers, land use, precipitation, and lithology. The frequency ratio was used to calculate the fuzziness of each factor, and these results were then applied to the fuzzy operators to produce the landslide susceptibility map. The selection of the susceptibility map closest to reality was based on the spatial distribution of landslides in each susceptibility class of each fuzzy operator and on the application of the receiver operating curve (ROC). The results of the Area Under Curve (AUC) analysis show that the gamma operator (0.90) provided the most accurate prediction of the landslide susceptibility map, as indicated by the prediction accuracy of the model (0.766). The study area was classified into four classes using Jenks natural fracture classification method: low susceptibility zone, moderate susceptibility zone, high susceptibility zone and very high susceptibility zone. The use of the fuzzy gamma operator for landslide susceptibility mapping gave a very satisfactory result with a reliability rate of 76.6%.
A randomised trial of topical polaprezinc to prevent oral mucositis in patients undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ToPaZ Study)
Authors: Nakagaki Midori , Kennedy Glen A , Gavin Nicole C , Butler Jason , Clavarino Alexandra , Whitfield Karen
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Oral mucositis (OM) is a common complication in haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Polaprezinc, an anti-ulcer drug, has been shown to be effective to prevent OM in several studies when administered topically and systemically. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of topical polaprezinc in patients undergoing HSCT.
Methods
This was an open-label randomised clinical trial comparing polaprezinc and sodium bicarbonate mouthwashes for the prevention of severe OM in HSCT patients. Adult patients who received conditioning regimens at moderate to high risk of developing OM were included. The primary endpoint was the incidence of severe (WHO grade 3–4) OM. The secondary endpoints included duration of grade 3–4 OM, incidence and duration of Grade 2–4 OM, patient-reported pain and functional limitations.
Results
In total, 108 patients (55 test arm, 53 control arm) were randomised. There was no difference in the incidence of grade 3 to 4 OM (35% test arm versus 36% control arm). The secondary endpoints were not significantly different. In both arms, patients reported more throat pain compared to mouth pain.
Conclusions
Topical polaprezinc had no effect in prevention of OM in HSCT patients. Further research is required to evaluate the effects of systemic polaprezinc. The OM assessment tool needs to be reviewed as throat mucositis was a main issue in this study.
Trial registration
ACTRN12320001188921
Design and application of a rate-limiting and precise external cerebrospinal fluid drainage device in patients with carcinomatous meningitis
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Yuanzhen , Li Jie , Chen Xi , Chen Li , Xie Fangwei , Chen Xiuping , Peng Yonghai , Chen Siyu , Chen Guangming , Nie Xiaojing
Published: June 2023

Objective
To develop a rate-limiting and precise external cerebrospinal fluid drainage device for intracranial decompression in carcinomatous Meningitis (CM).
Methods
The device consists of an intrathecal drug delivery system (IDDS), a drainage pathway and a pressure measurement pathway. The cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSF) is measured using the pressure difference between the subarachnoid space and the atmosphere, and the active directional drainage is achieved with the driving force of the infusion pump, and the cerebrospinal fluid pressure is monitored at the same time as the drainage.
Results
Changed the passive, intermittent and rough drainage of conventional external CSF drainage device to achieve active, continuous, rate-limiting and precise drainage. It was applied to a patient with advanced systemic multiple metastases of gastric indolent cell carcinoma complicated with CM, and the clinical symptoms were well controlled and the intracranial pressure was smoothly controlled for 99 days, without common complications such as high intracranial pressure due to insufficient drainage and low intracranial pressure due to excessive drainage, and without infection, poor drainage and line blockage.
Conclusion
The device is safe, effective, precise and controllable for drainage of CSF, with good effectiveness, practicality and safety, and is worth promoting.
Analysis of clinical efficacy and safety of hand-sewn anastomosis for the digestive tract with Da Vinci robot in rectal cancer surgery
Authors: feng zhen , Sun Zhiwei , Zhang Qianshi , Ren Shuangyi
Published: June 2023

Purpose
The study aimed to analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of hand-sewn anastomosis for the digestive tract with Da Vinci robot in rectal cancer surgery.
Materials and methods
A retrospective study was conducted to collect the clinical data from 27 patients who underwent Da Vinci robotic rectal cancer radical surgery in the department of gastrointestinal surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from August 2019 to February 2022. All patients received a manual suture for digestive tract reconstruction. After the posterior wall was sutured, the anterior wall was sutured continuously. Finally, a prilling thread was used to sew the junction of the front and rear walls. Perioperative indexes and complications were recorded.
Results
All 27 patients successfully underwent the operation. Neither conversion to laparotomy nor perioperative death occurred. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were 183.6 ± 44.8 min and 54.8 ± 34.4 ml, respectively. A total of 15.3 ± 7.8 lymph nodes were harvested. The pain score 24 hours after operation was 1.3 ± 1.3. The time out of bed, the time to exhaust, and the time to eat were 15.6 ± 2.9 hours, 2.2 ± 0.8 days, and 2.1 ± 0.6 days, respectively. A total of 4 patients (14.8%) developed complications after the operation. Grade B anastomotic leakage gradually resolved after drainage and antibiotic therapy in 1 case. A patient with grade C anastomotic leakage received a second operation for ileostomy. One patient with postoperative pneumonia recovered after anti-infective treatment. Another patient with intraperitoneal hemorrhage improved after symptomatic treatment with blood transfusion and hemostasis. The postoperative hospitalization time and total hospitalization costs were 8.9 ± 4.4 days and 89236.1 ± 13527.9 yuan, respectively.
Conclusions
Manual suture with Da Vinci robotic surgery system is safe and feasible for reconstructing the digestive tract in rectal cancer surgery.
Electrically programmable magnetic coupling in an Ising network exploiting solid-state ionic gating
Authors: Yun Chao , Liang Zhongyu , Hrabec Ales , Liu Zhentao , Huang Mantao , Wang Leran , Xiao Yifei , Fang Yikun , Li Wei , Yang Wenyun , Hou Yanglong , Yang Jinbo , Gambardella Pietro , Heyderman Laura , Luo Zhaochu
Published: June 2023

Two-dimensional arrays of magnetically coupled nanomagnets provide a mesoscopic platform for exploring collective phenomena as well as realizing a broad range of spintronic devices. In particular, the magnetic coupling plays a critical role in determining the nature of the cooperative behaviour and providing new functionalities in nanomagnet-based devices. Here, we create coupled Ising-like nanomagnets in which the coupling between adjacent nanomagnetic regions can be reversibly converted between parallel and antiparallel through solid-state ionic gating. This is achieved with the voltage-control of magnetic anisotropies in a nanosized region where the symmetric exchange interaction favours parallel alignment and the antisymmetric exchange interaction, namely the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction, favours antiparallel alignment. Applying this concept to a two-dimensional lattice, we demonstrate a voltage-controlled phase transition in artificial spin ices. Furthermore, we achieve an addressable control of the individual couplings and realize an electrically programmable Ising network, which opens up new avenues to design nanomagnet-based logic devices and neuromorphic computers.
Osseous defects of radicular cysts after cystectomy repairing with autogenous tooth sticky bone graft in the maxillary aesthetic area
Authors: Wushou Alimujiang , Luo Yuan , Cheng Qing-tao , Yang Zhi-cheng
Published: June 2023

Background: Radicular cysts are the most frequent inflammatory odontogenic cysts of the jaw. Cystectomy of larger radicular cysts in the maxillary aesthetic area often results in collapsed lip deformities. BonMaker® ATB has been investigated and demonstrated excellent autogenous bone graft candidacy. The aim of this study is to share a single team’s experience in repairing osseous defects after cystectomy in the maxillary aesthetic area by using autogenous tooth sticky bone grafts prepared with extracted third molars.
Method: A total of 12 patients with radicular cysts and impacted third molars were enrolled in this retrospective clinical study. The whole procedure was performed under general anesthesia. First, the impacted third molars were extracted, and autogenous tooth sticky bone grafts were prepared by mixing autogenous fibrin glue. Subsequently, cystectomy and grafting were performed and covered with concentrated growth factors. The patients were followed up at four months.
Results: The 12 patients included seven males and five females with a median age of 26 years. Primary wound healing of the graft donor and receiving site was achieved in all patients without complications. Osseous defects of radicular cysts demonstrated satisfactory ossification without bone resorption during the postsurgical follow-up after four months.
Conclusion: Autogenous tooth sticky bone grafts show promising alveolar bone repair quality.
Isolation and laboratory evaluation of two strains of Aspergillus for controlling Haemaphysalis longicornis (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Chen Yi , Peng Zhifeng , He Guifen , Xia Yanxun , Zhao Junlong , Wang Haiyan
Published: June 2023

Haemaphysalis longicornis (Acari: Ixodidae) is an important vector tick that can transmit a number of pathogens to humans and domestic animals worldwide. Entomopathogenic fungi have been substantiated to be effective in controlling ticks. However, a limited number of studies have assessed the use of ubiquitous Aspergillus spp. strains for the control of H. longicornis. In this study, we isolated Chinese native A. flavus and A. niger strains and evaluated their pathogenicity on different life stages of H. longicornis in the laboratory. Batches of unfed larvae, unfed nymphs and unfed female adults of H. longicornis (i.e., n = 20 for each stage) were immersed in 0.05% tween 80 suspensions of each A. fungus (1×105, 1×106, and 1×107 conidia/mL), whilst control groups for each stage were exposed only to sterile distilled water plus 0.05% Tween 80. All bioassays consisted of four groups of ticks (three experimental and one control group). Ticks were observed daily until 100% mortality was recorded in all treatment groups. Twelve days after treatment, A. flavus and A. niger strain resulted in 100% mortality of unfed tick larvae at all concentrations. Based on the calculated LC50 (median lethal concentration ) values, it was revealed that A. flavus was more pathogenic than A. niger. However, there was zero mortality and no mycelium growth in the nymph and adult female tick groups at all exposure times when using different conidial concentrations. Our results demonstrated that two native Chinese Aspergillus spp. strains showed high entomopathogenicity in the lab condition, representing a possible promising natural product to be used in alternative or in combination to other acaricidal compounds currently used for controlling the H. longicornis, although further field studies are needed to determine the best route and frequency of application for using these fungi as a bio-control agent against ticks.
A probabilistic load flow comparison in distribution systems by performing optimal capacitors/DERs sizing and placement, simultaneously
Authors: Khanbabaee Mohammad Mahbod , Abedi Bahman
Published: June 2023

Due to penetration of distributed energy resources (DER)s in electrical distribution systems, uncertainty investigation of distributed resources performance is significant owing to the inherent nature of solar irradiation and wind blow, on the other hand the power demand and charging stations of electric vehicles. All in all, uncertainty modeling of distribution network elements is an essential tool for performing probabilistic load flow (PLF) analysis beside understanding the probabilistic behavior of a power distribution network. Furthermore, the installation of DER resources and capacitors can result improvements of power factor, voltage profile enhancement and line losses reduction in power distribution networks. The sizing and location of DER resource and capacitor unit should be optimal to maximize the benefits, hence optimal locating and allocating the capacity of DERs have a complete impact on the system losses in the distribution network. When DERs and capacitors are installed in a distribution system, it could impact three-phase short-circuit currents. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is applied to find the optimal place and size of DERs and capacitors considering the minimum three-phase short-circuit current changes. The probability density functions (PDF) of total system losses and voltage deviation of the investigated network obtained from solving PLF by two methods of Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) and Hong’s two-point estimation method have been compared before and after optimal placement and sizing of distributed energy resources and capacitors. PLF and GA has been applied on IEEE 33-bus radial distribution system. The results obtained illustrate that the voltage deviation and the total system losses have been reduced with very minor changes in three-phase short-circuit current, finally the two-point estimation (TPM) method offer faster method, having acceptable results.
Study of new strain of Sanchytrium tribonematis expands our knowledge on Sanchytriomycota (Fungi)
Authors: Vishnyakov Andrey E. , Seliuk Alexei O. , Tcvetkova Victoria S. , Karpov Sergey
Published: June 2023

Recently, phylogenomic analyses of two parasitic fungi with amoeboid zoospores and long kinetosomes, the sanchytrids Amoeboradix gromovi and Sanchytrium tribonematis, showed that they formed a clade Sanchytriomycota sister to Blastocladiomycota. Sanchytrid species diversity is still very low and most of isolates from different places belong to S. tribonematis. Here, we present a new strain X-137 of fresh-water S. tribonematis having peculiar morphology and unusual stage in the life cycle. Its zoospores have kinetosome composed by 9 microtubular singlets along its whole length (1.2 µm) with pseudocilium containing axoneme of 4 microtubules, and enable to form extremely long posterior filopodium (up to 10 body lengths). Kinetosome develops from the mother centriole of centrosomal apparatus of sporangium, while daughter centriole becomes a non-flagellar kinetosome. Big zoospores with several pseudocilia and many (up to eleven) kinetosomes per cell have been found in S. tribonematis culture. They are probably a result of several zoospores or gametes fusion. These findings expand our still poor knowledge on the cell structure and biology of Sanchytriomycota.
ERRα promotes glycolytic metabolism and targets the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway to regulate pyroptosis in endometrial cancer
Authors: Su Ping-ping , Mao Xiaodan , Ma Jincheng , Huang Lixiang , Yu Lirui , Tang Shuting , Zhuang Mingzhi , Lu Zhonglei , Osafo Kelvin Stefan , Ren Yuan , Wang Xinrui , Lin Xite , Huang Leyi , Huang Xiaoli , Braicu Elena Ioana , Sehouli Jalid , Sun Pengming
Published: June 2023

Background
Tumor cells can resist chemotherapy-induced pyroptosis through glycolytic reprogramming. Estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) is a central regulator of cellular energy metabolism associated with poor cancer prognosis. Herein, we refine the oncogenic role of ERRα in the pyroptosis pathway and glycolytic metabolism.
Methods
The protein interaction between ERRα and HIF-1α was verified by Co-immunoprecipitation. The transcriptional binding sites of ERRα and NLRP3 were confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy, and extracellular acidification rate analysis were performed to investigate the effect of ERRα on the pyroptosis pathway and glycolytic metabolism. This experiments were further confirmed in EC-derived organoids and nude mice. In addition, the expression of ERRα-related pyroptosis genes was analyzed by the The Cancer Genome Atlas database.
Results
Triggered by a hypoxic microenvironment, highly-expressed-ERRα could bind to the promoter of NLRP3 and inhibit caspase-1/GSDMD signaling, which reduced inflammasome activation and increased pyroptosis resistance, thereby resulting in cancer cells resistant to cisplatin. Moreover, ERRα activated pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a glycolytic rate-limiting enzyme, to bridge glycolytic metabolism and pyroptosis in endometrial cancer (EC). This phenomenon was further confirmed in EC-derived organoids and nude mice. The Cancer Genome Atlas database analysis showed that ERRα participated in glycolysis and programmed cell death, which resulted in the progression of EC.
Conclusions
ERRα inhibits pyroptosis in an NLRP3-dependent manner and induces glycolytic metabolism, resulting in cisplatin resistance in EC cells.
The mediating role of frailty and depression between social support and self-management pathway in elderly COPD patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhao Jie , Zhang Xiaona , Li Xindan , Zhang Rui , Chang Yan , Li Yongju , Lu Hongyan
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represents a serious threat to global public health safety, and no effective way to cure COPD has been identified. Its treatment is mainly focused on stabilization of the stage and reduction of symptoms. Self-management (SM) is the primary factor in controlling the progress of the disease. Social support has been proven to have a promoting effect on self-management; however, one independent factor cannot fully account for the complex mechanisms of self-management. The incidence of frailty and depression is relatively high among patients with COPD, which influences their level of SM. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of research on the underlying mechanisms among the four variables mentioned above. The aim of this study is to understand the current status of social support and self-management in elderly patients with COPD, and to explore the double mediating role of depression and frailty between social support and self-management.
Study design: This is a cross-sectional study.
Methods: This study used a convenience sampling method, and selected 627 elderly COPD patients who was hospitalized in 5 public hospitals in the Ningxia region of northwest China from November 2020 to July 2021 as the survey subjects. The survey content included general information, the COPD Self-management Scale (COPD-SMS), Frail Scale (FS), 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (15-GDS), and Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS). The correlation between variables used Pearson’s product-moment correlation analysis. SPSS25.0 PROCESS plugin Model 6 was used to test the mediating effect of frailty and depression between social support and self-management.
Results: Among the sample, the total participants contained 248 females and 379 males. The mean age was 72.87 years, and the standard deviation was 7.03. The mean COPD-SMS was 156.99, with a standard deviation of 25.15. Analysis of the mediating effect revealed that social support can directly predict SM, and can also predict through the mediation of depression and frailty-depression, but the mediation of frailty alone was not significant. The direct and indirect effect accounted for 84.06% and 15.94% of the total effect respectively.
Conclusion: The SM of elderly COPD patients in the Ningxia of northwest China was at a moderate-to-low level, and the frailty and depression played a partial mediating role in social support and self-management pathways. The research provided that the medical profession should pay attention to the patients' frailty and depression status and provide targeted intervention measures during the intervention.
The Evolution of Age-Specific Smoking Cessation Rates in the United States From 2009 to 2018
Authors: Le Thuy T.T. , Warner Kenneth E. , Mendez David
Published: June 2023

Objective
Tracking the US smoking cessation rate over time is of great interest to tobacco control researchers and policymakers since smoking cessation behaviors have a major effect on the public’s health. A couple of recent studies have employed dynamic models to estimate the US cessation rate through observed smoking prevalence. However, none of those studies has provided recent annual estimates of the cessation rate by age group.
Methods
We employed a Kalman filter approach to investigate the annual evolution of age-group-specific cessation rates, unknown parameters of a mathematical model of smoking prevalence, during the 2009–2018 period using data from the National Health Interview Survey. We focused on cessation rates in the 24–44, 45–64 and 65 + age groups.
Results
The findings show that cessation rates follow a consistent u-shaped curve over time with respect to age (i.e., higher among the 25–44 and 65 + age groups, and lower among 45-64-year-olds). Over the course of the study, the cessation rates in the 25–44 and 65 + age groups remained nearly unchanged around 4.5% and 5.6%, respectively. However, the rate in the 45–64 age group exhibited a substantial increase of 70%, from 2.5% in 2009 to 4.2% in 2017. The estimated cessation rates in all three age groups tended to converge to the weighted average cessation rate over time.
Conclusions
The Kalman filter approach offers a real-time estimation of cessation rates that would be helpful for monitoring smoking cessation behavior, of interest in general but also for tobacco control policymakers.
Metacognition in wild Japanese macaques: cost and stakes influencing information-seeking behavior
Authors: Subias Lorraine , Katsu Noriko , Yamada Kazunori
Published: June 2023

Metacognition allows us to evaluate memories and knowledge, thus enabling us to distinguish between what we know and what we do not. Studies have shown that species other than humans may possess similar abilities. However, the number of species tested was limited. Testing ten free-ranging Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) on a task in which they had to find food hidden inside one of the four opaque tubes, we investigated whether these subjects would seek information when needed. The monkeys could look inside the tubes before selecting one. We varied three parameters: the baiting process, cost that monkeys had to pay to look inside the tubes, and rewards at stake. We assessed whether and how these parameters would affect the monkeys’ tendency to look inside the tube before selecting one. Nine monkeys looked significantly more frequently when they did not know which tube contained the reward. Half of them tended to reduce their looks when the cost was high, but only when they already knew the location of the reward. When a high-quality reward was at stake, three monkeys tended to look more inside the tubes, even though they already knew the reward's location. Our results are consistent with those of rhesus macaques, suggesting that metacognitive-like abilities may be shared by Cercopithecidae, and that, at least some monkeys may be aware of their lack of knowledge.
Differences in motor imagery abilities in active and sedentary individuals: new insights from backward walking imagination
Authors: Mandolesi Laura , Passarello Noemi , Lucidi Fabio
Published: June 2023

Evidence has shown that imagining a complex action, like backward walking, helps improve the execution of the gesture. Despite this, studies in sport psychology have provided heterogeneous results on the use of motor imagery (MI) to improve performance. We aimed at filling this gap, by analyzing how sport experience influences backward MI processes in a sample of young women (n = 41, mean age = 21 ± 2.2) divided into Active and Sedentary. All participants were subjected to two randomized mental chronometric tasks, in which they had first to imagine and then execute forward walking (FW) and backward walking (BW). Motor Imagery Efficiency (MIE) index measured the difference between imagination and execution times in both conditions (forward and backward). Moreover, we analyzed the ability to vividly imagine FW and BW within various perspectives in both groups through Vividness of Movement Imagery Questionnaire (VMIQ-2). Findings showed that active individuals performed better in BW imagery task, when compared to sedentary ones (F1,39= 4.98; p = .03*), while there were no differences between groups in FW imagery task (F1,39= .10; p = .75). Further, VMIQ-2 had evidenced that the ability to imagine backward is influenced by perspective used. Specifically, the use of internal perspective (IVI) led to worse MI efficiency (t32,25= 2.16; p = .04*), while the use of kinesthetic perspective (KIN) led to better MI efficiency (t32,25= -2.34; p = .03*). These results suggest that backward MI could be an effective tool to improve mental training protocols and achieve success in sport.
METTL3 Exacerbates Insulin Resistance in Hepatocytes by Regulating m 6 A Modification of Cytochrome P450 2B6
Authors: Li Yongqing , Zhang Dantong , Gao Yinan , Wang Peijun , Wang Zejun , Zhang Bingyang , Liu Junjun , Ye Diwen , ma wanshan , lu sumei
Published: June 2023

Background
Insulin resistance (IR) in hepatocytes endangers human health, and frequently results in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Research on m6A methylation of RNA molecules has gained popularity in recent years; however, the molecular mechanisms regulating the processes of m6A modification and IR are not known. The cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme system, which is mainly found in the liver, is associated with the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, few studies have been conducted on CYP450 related m6A methylation. Here, we investigated the role of the methyltransferase METTL3 in exacerbating IR in hepatocytes, mainly focusing on the regulation of m6A modifications in CYP2B6.
Methods and Results
Analysis using dot blot and epitranscriptomic chips revealed that the m6A modification pattern of the transcriptome in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced fatty liver and free fatty acid (FFA)-induced fatty hepatocytes showed significant changes. CYP450 family members, especially Cyp2b10, whose homolog in humans is CYP2B6, led to a noticeable increase in m6A levels in HFD-induced mice livers. Application of the METTL3 methyltransferase inhibitor, STM2457, increased the level of insulin sensitivity in hepatocytes. We then analyzed the role of METTL3 in regulating m6A modification of CYP2B6 in hepatocytes. METTL3 regulated the m6A modification of CYP2B6, and a positive correlation was found between the levels of CYP2B6 translation and m6A modifications. Furthermore, interference with METTL3 expression and exposure to STM2457 inhibited METTL3 activity, which in turn interfered with the phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate (pIRS)-glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) insulin signaling pathway; overexpression of CYP2B6 hindered IRS phosphorylation and translocation of GLUT2 to membranes, which ultimately exacerbated IR.
Conclusion
These findings offer unique insights into the role that METTL3-mediated m6A modifications of CYP2B6 play in regulating insulin sensitivity in hepatocytes and provide key information for the development of strategies to induce m6A modifications for the clinical treatment of NAFLD.
Phylogenetic, population structure, and population demographic analyses reveal that Vicia sepium in Japan is native and not introduced
Authors: Tamaki Ichiro , Mizuno Mizuo , Ohtsuki Tatsuo , Shutoh Kohtaroh , Tabata Ryoichi , Tsunamoto Yoshihiro , Suyama Yoshihisa , Nakajima Yusuke , Kubo Naoki , Ito Takeru , Noma Naohiko , Harada Emiko
Published: June 2023

Vicia sepium is a perennial herb widely distributed throughout the Eurasian continent. However, its distribution in Japan is limited to Mt. Ibuki and small parts of central and southern Hokkaido. Therefore, each Japanese V. sepium lineage has been considered to have been introduced separately from Europe. Here, we examined whether the species was introduced or not on the basis of cpDNA sequences and genome-wide SNPs from Japanese and overseas samples. Both the cpDNA haplotype network and the nuclear DNA phylogenetic tree showed that Japanese V. sepium is monophyletic. Furthermore, although the nuclear DNA phylogenetic tree also showed that each lineage is clearly monophyletic, genetic admixture of the genetic cluster dominated in the Hokkaido lineage was also detected in the Mt. Ibuki lineage. Population divergence analysis showed that the two lineages diverged during the last glacial period. The Mt. Ibuki lineage showed a sudden population decline 300–400 years ago, while the Hokkaido lineage showed a gradual population decline from 5,000 years ago. The causes of these population declines are considered to be anthropogenic effects on Mt. Ibuki and climate change during the Holocene in Hokkaido. Consequently, these two lineages show low current genetic diversity compared with overseas lineages. These results show that the Japanese V. sepium is not introduced but is native.
Mapping the Regulatory Programs of RNA Binding Protein Regulators in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Data from Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Luo Hongbin , Lin Duoduo , Wei Jie , Zheng Qunya , Zhang Nanwen , Chen Peng
Published: June 2023

Background RNA binding proteins (RBPs), especially cell-specific RBPs are involved in critical processes such as alternative splicing of messenger RNAs and translational control, leading to the expression of cell-specific functional proteins. However, the expression pattern of RBPs in different cells of rheumatoid arthritis and their associated aberrant regulation remain largely unexplored.Methods We collected 2141 RNA binding protein genes (RBPs) from literature and identified cell populations present in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis control samples using single-cell data. We compared the changes in the relative proportions of cell classes between them and analyzed RBP expression patterns specific to different cell types. We investigated fibroblast cell populations and their cellular communication with different immune cells. Additionally, we used bulk RNA-seq data from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis samples to identify highly conserved variable splicing events and established a co-variation network of RBPs and these splicing events.Results We observed a greater number of down-regulated RBPs in each cell type, except for fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and macrophages, where the number of up-regulated genes was much higher. In fibroblasts from RA and OA patients, we identified 105 upregulated RBPs and 133 downregulated RBPs. These RBPs were co-expressed with genes enriched in various functional pathways, including extracellular matrix organization, cell adhesion, collagen fibril organization, and cytokine signaling. Cellular communication analysis demonstrated enhanced signaling pathways, like CXCL12-CXCR4, between fibroblasts and macrophages in RA. We identified a total of 715 differentially variable splicing events in our study, and alternative 5' and 3' splicing were the most prevalent. Some RBPs, such as MBNL2 in endothelial cells and U2AF1, SF3B6, and SF3B14 in fibroblast cells, may play a role in the pathogenesis of RA through splicing regulation.Conclusion In this study, we analyzed single-cell datasets to identify the inherent characteristics and abnormal expression patterns of RBPs in different cell types of patients with RA. Our findings revealed that certain cell-specific RBPs were associated with inflammatory signaling pathways and splicing regulation in RA. These findings suggest that the dysregulation of RBPs may contribute to the development of RA and highlight potential pathways for therapeutic interventions.
Efficient Storage and Analysis of Videos through Motion-Based Frame Removal
Authors: R Akash , Anderson Leandra Shania
Published: June 2023

The storage and analysis of CCTV footage pose a significant challenge in modern surveillance systems. This paper presents an innovative and modern solution for efficient storage optimization and analysis through motion-based frame removal techniques. By leveraging the OpenCV library redundant frames are removed, resulting in substantial storage reduction without losing important motion events. The methodology uses Python’s OpenCV, Django, SQLite, and Bootstrap, ensuring reliability, scalability, usability, and effective data visualisation. Experimental results have demonstrated the efficacy across different camera setups and their ability to preserve critical information. The approach offers a practical solution for decreasing cost, improving analysis efficiency, and enhancing usability. This research contributes to the field of CCTV surveillance by providing a practical and industry-oriented solution. The findings inspire further improvements in storage optimization and pave the way for more intelligent surveillance systems.
Integrating MXene/MWCNTs into aptasensor capable of ultrasensitive quantification of cTnI towards the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: tao jinsong , Han Jin , Li Weizhang , Cui Junyou , Li Jian , Cao Xiangming , Zhang Hua
Published: June 2023

The development of a pragmatic biosensor for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is of paramount significance. However, the detection of cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) presents formidable challenges owing to the intricate composition and scant concentration of cTnI in clinical samples. Therefore, we propose an innovative approach employing an aptamer biosensor predicated on MXene/multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to discern cTnI. By integrating the MXene/MWCNTs nanomaterial, our aptasensor manifests remarkable amplification effects, thereby enabling an extensive detection range spanning from 10 to 106 pg/mL, while attaining an unparalleled detection sensitivity with an exceptionally low limit of 6.21 pg/mL. Furthermore, our aptasensor exhibits favorable selectivity, reproducibility, and stability. Moreover, our aptasensor showcases a robust clinical correlation equation of y = 1.202x + 0.0147, accompanied by an R² value of 0.9797. A notable p-value discrepancy is observed between the AMI and healthy control groups. Remarkably, the area under the curve (AUC) achieved amounts to 0.981, with a sensitivity of 0.938 and specificity of 0.923. These outstanding attributes, coupled with its exceptional clinical performance, position our aptasensor as the optimal choice for the practical monitoring of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) disease.