bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remyelination in multiple sclerosis from the miRNA perspective
Authors: Maciak Karina , Dziedzic Angela , Saluk Joanna
Published: June 2023

Remyelination relies on the repair of damaged myelin sheaths, involving microglia cells, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), and mature oligodendrocytes. This process drives the pathophysiology of autoimmune chronic disease of the central nervous system (CNS), multiple sclerosis (MS), leading to nerve cell damage and progressive neurodegeneration. Stimulating the reconstruction of damaged myelin sheaths is one of the goals in terms of delaying the progression of MS symptoms and preventing neuronal damage. Short, noncoding RNA molecules, microRNAs (miRNAs), responsible for regulating gene expression, are believed to play a crucial role in the remyelination process. For example, studies showed that miR-223 promotes efficient activation and phagocytosis of myelin debris by microglia, which is necessary for the initiation of remyelination. Meanwhile, miR-124 promotes the return of activated microglia to the quiescent state, while miR-204 and miR-219 promote the differentiation of mature oligodendrocytes. Furthermore, miR-138, miR-145, and miR-338 have been shown to be involved in the synthesis and assembly of myelin proteins. Various delivery systems, including extracellular vesicles, hold promise as an efficient and non-invasive way for providing miRNAs to stimulate remyelination. This article summarizes the biology of remyelination as well as current challenges and strategies for miRNA molecules in potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Adjuvant therapy with Huatan Sanjie Granules improves the prognosis of patients with primary liver cancer: a cohort study and the investigation of its mechanism of action based on network pharmacology
Authors: Yuan Juhua , Abdurahman Abdusami , Cui Ning , Hao Tengteng , Zou Jianhua , Liu Liren , Wu Yu
Published: June 2023

Objective: Nowadays, primary liver carcinoma (PLC) is one of the major contributors to the global cancer burden, and China has the highest morbidity and mortality rates in the world. As a well-known Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) prescription, Huatan Sanjie Granules (HSG) has been used clinically for many years to treat PLC with remarkable efficacy, but the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear.

Methods: A clinical cohort study was conducted to observe the overall survival of PLC patients with vs. without oral administration of HSG. Meanwhile, the BATMAN-TCM database was used to retrieve the potential active ingredients in the six herbs of HSG and their corresponding drug targets. PLC–related targets were then screened through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of targets of HSG against PLC was constructed using Cytoscape software. The cell function assays were further carried out for verification.

Results: The results of the cohort study showed that the median survival time of PLC patients exposed to HSG was 269 days, which was 23 days longer than that of the control group (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.38–0.99; p = 0.047). In particular, the median survival time of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C patients was 411 days in the exposure group, which was 137 days longer than that in the control group (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.35–0.96; p = 0.036). Meanwhile, the enrichment analysis result for the obtained PPI network consisting of 362 potential core therapeutic targets suggest that HSG may inhibit the growth of liver cancer (LC) cells by blocking the PI3K-Akt/MAPK signaling pathways. Furthermore, the above prediction results were verified by a series of in vitro assays. Specifically, we found that the expressions TP53 and YWHA2, the targets of the hepatitis B virus signaling pathway, were significantly affected by HSG.

Conclusion: HSG shows promising therapeutic efficacy in the adjuvant treatment of PLC.
Comparative study of the effects of the three kinds of Kampo-hozai: Ninjinyoeito, Hochuekkito, and Juzentaihoto on anxious and low sociability behavior using NPY-knockout zebrafish
Authors: Kawabe Momoko , Nishida Takumi , Takahashi Ryuji , Inui Akio , Shiozaki Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

Ninjinyoeito, Hochuekkito, and Juzentaihoto are the three types of Kampo-hozai used to support the treatment of various diseases by energizing patients through improved mental health. While Kampo-hozais are clinically used to improve mental energy decline, a comparison between their effects on neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety and sociability and the strength of their effects has not been conducted. Therefore, this study compared the effects of Ninjinyoeito, Hochuekkito, and Juzentaihoto on psychiatric symptoms using neuropeptide Y knockout (NPY-KO) zebrafish, a suitable animal model for anxiety and low sociability. Neuropeptide Y knockout zebrafish were fed a Ninjinyoeito, Hochuekkito, or Juzentaihoto-supplemented diet for 4 days. Then, sociability was analyzed using a three-Chambers test and anxiety-like behavior was evaluated using the cold stress and novel tank tests. The results showed that Ninjinyoeito treatment improved the low sociability of neuropeptide Y knockout, while Hochuekkito and Juzentaihoto did not. Neuropeptide Y knockout exhibited anxiety-like behaviors, such as freezing and swimming in the wall area under cold stress, but Ninjinyoeito treatment improved these behaviors. However, these anxiety-like behaviors were not improved by Hochuekkito and Juzentaihoto. Ninjinyoeito treatment also improved anxiety-like behaviors of neuropeptide Y knockout in the novel tank test. However, no improvement was shown in the Hochuekkito and Juzentaihoto groups. This trend was also confirmed in the low water stress test using wild-type zebrafish. This study exhibits that among the three types of Kampo-hozai, Ninjinyoeito is the most effective in psychiatric disorders associated with anxiety and low sociability.
Investigation of adenosine A1 receptor-mediated β-arrestin 2 recruitment using a split-luciferase assay
Authors: Saecker Luisa , Häberlein Hanns , Franken Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Background: Adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) plays a prominent role in neurological and cardiac diseases and inflammatory processes. Its endogenous ligand adenosine is known to be one of the key players in the sleep–wake cycle. Like other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), stimulation of A1AR leads to the recruitment of arrestins in addition to the activation of G proteins. So far, little is known about the role of these proteins in signal transduction and regulation of A1AR compared to the activation of G proteins. In this work, we characterized a live cell assay for A1AR-mediated β-arrestin 2 recruitment. We have applied this assay to a set of different compounds that interact with this receptor.

Methods: Based on NanoBit® technology, a protein complementation assay was developed in which the A1AR is coupled to the large part of the nanoluciferase (LgBiT), whereas its small part (SmBiT) is fused to the N-terminus of β-arrestin 2. Stimulation of A1AR results in the recruitment of β-arrestin 2 and subsequent complementation of a functional nanoluciferase. For comparison, corresponding data on the effect of receptor stimulation on intracellular cAMP levels were collected for some data sets using the GloSensor™ assay.

Results: The assay gives highly reproducible results with a very good signal-to-noise ratio. Capadenoson, in contrast to adenosine, CPA, or NECA, shows only partial agonism in this assay with respect to the recruitment of β-arrestin 2, whereas it shows full agonism in the case of the inhibitory effect of A1AR on cAMP production. By using a GRK2 inhibitor, it becomes clear that the recruitment is at least partially dependent on the phosphorylation of the receptor by this kinase. Interestingly, this was also the first time that we demonstrate the A1AR-mediated recruitment of β-arrestin 2 by stimulation with a valerian extract.

Conclusion: The presented assay is a useful tool for the quantitative study of A1AR-mediated β-arrestin 2 recruitment. It allows data collection for stimulatory, inhibitory, and modulatory substances and is also suitable for more complex substance mixtures such as valerian extract.
Mapping new pharmacological interventions for cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Xu Lou Inmaculada , Chen Jiayue , Ali Kamran , Shaikh Abdul Lateef , Chen Qilan
Published: June 2023

Background and Objective: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, that is, characterized by cognitive decline. To date, there are no effective treatments for AD. Therefore, the objective of this study was to map new perspectives on the effects of pharmacological treatment on cognitive function and the overall psychological state in patients with AD.

Methods: Two independent researchers searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) exploring new pharmacological approaches related to cognition in Alzheimer’s disease in adults from 2018 to 2023 in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. A total of 17 RCTs were included in this review.

Results: The results show that in recent years, new drugs have been tested in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, including masitinib, methylphenidate, levetiracetam, Jiannao Yizhi, and Huannao Yicong formulas. Most studies have been conducted in populations with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

Conclusion: Although some of the drugs found suggested improvement in cognitive function, the scarcity of available studies highlights the need for further research in this area.

Systematic review registration: [www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42023409986].
The elucidation of the anti-inflammatory mechanism of EMO in rheumatoid arthritis through an integrative approach combining bioinformatics and experimental verification
Authors: Hui Pusheng , Zhou Sicong , Cao Chunhao , Zhao Wenting , Zeng Li , Rong Xiaofeng
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Emodin (EMO), a natural derivative of the anthraquinone family mainly extracted from rhubarb (Rheum palmatum), has previously been demonstrated to possess superior anti-inflammatory properties from a single target or pathway. In order to explore the underlying mechanism of action of EMO against rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a network pharmacology approach was employed.

Methods: A gene expression profile from GSE55457 available from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to identify the targets of EMO action. Further, single cell RNA sequencing data from GEO database of RA patients (GSE159117) were downloaded and analysed. To further investigate the anti-RA effect of EMO on MH7A cells, the expression of IL-6 and IL-1β were monitored. Finally, RNA-seq analyses were conducted on synovial fibroblasts from EMO-treated.

Result: We screened the key targets of EMO against RA using network pharmacology methods, including HMGB1, STAT1, EGR1, NR3C1, EGFR, MAPK14, CASP3, CASP1, IL4, IL13, IKBKB and FN1, and their reliability was verified using ROC curve. Single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis showed that these core target proteins mainly played a role by modulating monocytes. The anti-RA effect of EMO was further verified with MH7A cells, which showed that EMO could block cell differentiation and reduce the expression of IL-6 and IL-1β. WB experiments confirmed that EMO could affect the expression of COX2, HMBG1 and the phosphorylation of p38. Finally, sequencing of synovial fibroblasts from rats treated with EMO showed consistent results with those predicted and verified, further proving the anti-inflammatory effect of EMO.

Conclusion: Our research shows that EMO inhibits inflammatory response of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by targeting HMGB1, STAT1, EGR1, NR3C1, EGFR, MAPK14, CASP3, CASP1, IL4, IL13, IKBKB, FN1 and Monocytes/macrophages.
Hydroxychloroquine-induced Retinal Toxicity
Authors: Yusuf Imran H. , Charbel Issa Peter , Ahn Seong Joon
Published: June 2023

Long-term use of hydroxychloroquine can cause retinopathy, which may result in severe and progressive visual loss. In the past decade, hydroxychloroquine use has markedly increased and modern retinal imaging techniques have enabled the detection of early, pre-symptomatic disease. As a consequence, the prevalence of retinal toxicity in long-term hydroxychloroquine users is known to be higher than was previously estimated. The pathophysiology of the retinopathy is incompletely characterised, although significant advances have been made in understanding the disease from clinical imaging studies. Hydroxychloroquine retinopathy elicits sufficient public health concern to justify the implementation of retinopathy screening programs for patients at risk. Here, we describe the historical background of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy and summarize its current understanding. We review the utility and limitations of each of the mainstream diagnostic tests used to detect hydroxychloroquine retinopathy. The key considerations towards a consensus on the definition of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy are outlined in the context of what is known of the natural history of the disease. We compare the current screening recommendations for hydroxychloroquine retinopathy, identifying where additional evidence is required, and the management of proven cases of toxicity. Finally, we highlight the areas for further investigation, which may further reduce the risk of visual loss in hydroxychloroquine users.
The effect of confounding variables on the relationship between anthropometric and physiological features in 2000-m rowing ergometer performance
Authors: Podstawski Robert , Borysławski Krzysztof , Alföldi Zoltán , Ferenc Ihász , Wąsik Jacek
Published: June 2023

Background:Anthropometric and physiological characteristics are often considered as potential variables that are significantly related with motor performance.

Aim:The aim of this study was to identify and weigh the key anthropometric and physiological characteristics that are associated with 2000-m rowing ergometer performance in male and female athletes.

Methods:The study involved 70 best female and 130 best male rowers from the seven largest Hungarian rowing clubs, classified into one of the following age categories: juniors (36 women and 55 men, age range: 15-16 years), older juniors (26 women and 52 men, age range: 17-18 years), and seniors (8 women and 23 men, age range: over 18 years). Anthropometric and body composition measurements were determined by the bioelectrical impedance method proposed by Weiner and Lourie (1969), and skin fold measurements were conducted to estimate relative body fat content. The countermovement jump test and the 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test were used for physiological measurements.

Results:An increase in skeletal muscle mass was correlated (r= -.39,p<.001) with a significant decrease in rowing time over a distance of 2000 m, whereas a significant increase in rowing time was noted with an increase in sitting height (only in men,r= .33,p<.001), body mass (in women and men:r= .24,p= .013 andr= .31,p= .009), and body fat percentage (r= .26,p< .030). Rowing time was also bound by a significant correlation with maximal force (r= -.79 and -.90,p<.001) and relative maximal power (r= -.54 and -.78,p<.001) in both sexes, with relative peak power in males (r= -.51,p< .001), and with estimated relative maximal aerobic capacity in females (r= -.43,p<.001).

Conclusion:Rowing performance over a distance of 2000 m is significantly negatively correlated with the skeletal muscle mass, maximal force, relative maximal power, relative peak power, and estimated relative maximal aerobic capacity.
Electromagnetic-field theories of qualia: can they improve upon standard neuroscience?
Authors: Jones Mostyn W. , Hunt Tam
Published: June 2023

How do brains create all our different colors, pains, and other conscious qualities? These various qualia are the most essential aspects of consciousness. Yet standard neuroscience (primarily based on synaptic information processing) has not found the synaptic-firing codes, sometimes described as the “spike code,” to account for how these qualia arise and how they unite to form complex perceptions, emotions,et cetera. Nor is it clear how to get from these abstract codes to the qualia we experience. But electromagnetic field (versus synaptic) approaches to how qualia arise have been offered in recent years by Pockett, McFadden, Jones, Bond, Ward and Guevera, Keppler and Shani, Hunt and Schooler,et cetera. These EM-field approaches show promise in offering more viable accounts of qualia. Yet, until now, they have not been evaluated together. We review various EM field theories of qualia, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and contrast these theories with standard neuroscience approaches.
The relationship between parental mental health, reflective functioning coparenting and social emotional development in 0-3 year old children
Authors: De Palma Mia , Rooney Rosanna , Izett Elizabeth , Mancini Vincent , Kane Robert
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The transition to parenthood is a high-risk period for many parents and is an important period for child development. Research has identified that parental mental health, reflective functioning (capacity to consider mental states of oneself and others) and coparenting (capacity to work together well as a parenting team) may be particularly significant predictors of later child outcomes, however these factors have seldom been considered together. The present study therefore aimed to investigate the relationship between these factors and the extent to which they predict child social emotional development.

Methods

Three hundred and fifty parents of infants aged 0 to 3 years 11 months were recruited to complete an online Qualtrics questionnaire.

Results

Results indicate that both positive coparenting and parental reflective functioning (Pre-mentalizing and Certainty subscales) were found to significantly predict child development. General reflective functioning (Uncertainty subscale) predicted parental depression and anxiety, however unexpectedly, parental mental health was not a significant predictor of child development, but did predict coparenting. General reflective functioning (Certainty subscale) was also found to predict coparenting, which in turn was found to predict parental reflective functioning. We found an indirect effect of general reflective functioning (Certainty) on child SE development via parental reflective functioning (Pre-mentalizing). We also found an indirect effect of negative coparenting on child development via parental reflective functioning (Pre-mentalizing).

Discussion

The current results support a growing body of research highlighting the important role reflective functioning plays in child development and wellbeing as well as parental mental health and the interparental relationship.
Multi-Input CNN-LSTM deep learning model for fear level classification based on EEG and peripheral physiological signals
Authors: Masuda Nagisa , Yairi Ikuko Eguchi
Published: June 2023

Objective and accurate classification of fear levels is a socially important task that contributes to developing treatments for Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive–compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Phobia. This study examines a deep learning model to automatically estimate human fear levels with high accuracy using multichannel EEG signals and multimodal peripheral physiological signals in the DEAP dataset. The Multi-Input CNN-LSTM classification model combining Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Long Sort-Term Memory (LSTM) estimated four fear levels with an accuracy of 98.79% and an F1 score of 99.01% in a 10-fold cross-validation. This study contributes to the following; (1) to present the possibility of recognizing fear emotion with high accuracy using a deep learning model from physiological signals without arbitrary feature extraction or feature selection, (2) to investigate effective deep learning model structures for high-accuracy fear recognition and to propose Multi-Input CNN-LSTM, and (3) to examine the model’s tolerance to individual differences in physiological signals and the possibility of improving accuracy through additional learning.
Fine particulate matter air pollution and the mortality of children under five: a multilevel analysis of the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey of 2016
Authors: Shiferaw Ashenafie Bereded , Kumie Abera , Tefera Worku
Published: June 2023

Background

Every year, polluted air is costing the globe 543,000 deaths of children under five. The particulate matter below 2.5 μm diameter (PM2.5) is a part of air pollution that has adverse effects on children’s health. In Ethiopia, the effect of ambient PM2.5 is least explored. This study aimed to assess the association between PM2.5 and under-five mortality in Ethiopia.

Methods

The study used the data from the Ethiopian Demographic Health Surveys conducted in 2016, collected between January 18 and June 27. All children under five who had data on child mortality and location coordinates were included in the study. Exposure to ambient PM2.5 concentration was a satellite-based estimate by the Atmospheric Composition Analysis Group at Washington and Dalhousie University, in the United States and Canada, respectively. Annual mean pollution levels and mortality datasets were matched by children’s geographical location and dates of birth, death, and interview. The relationship between ambient PM2.5 and under-five mortality was determined by a multilevel multivariable logistic regression on R software. The statistical analyses were two-sided at a 95% confidence interval.

Results

The study addressed 10,452 children with the proportion of under-five mortality being 5.4% (95% CI 5.0–6.8%). The estimated lifetime annual mean exposure of ambient total PM2.5 was 20.1 ± 3.3 μgm−3. A 10-unit increase in the lifetime annual mean ambient total PM2.5 was associated with 2.29 [95% CI 1.44, 3.65] times more odds of under-five mortality after adjusting for other variables.

Conclusion

Children under five are exposed to higher levels of ambient PM2.5 concentration, exceeding the limit set by the World Health Organization. Ambient PM2.5 is significantly associated with under-five mortality, adjusting for other variables. Strong measures need to be taken to reduce air pollution.
Climate variability, socio-economic conditions and vulnerability to malaria infections in Mozambique 2016–2018: a spatial temporal analysis
Authors: Armando Chaibo Jose , Rocklöv Joacim , Sidat Mohsin , Tozan Yesim , Mavume Alberto Francisco , Bunker Aditi , Sewes Maquins Odhiambo
Published: June 2023

Background

Temperature, precipitation, relative humidity (RH), and Normalized Different Vegetation Index (NDVI), influence malaria transmission dynamics. However, an understanding of interactions between socioeconomic indicators, environmental factors and malaria incidence can help design interventions to alleviate the high burden of malaria infections on vulnerable populations. Our study thus aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and climatological factors influencing spatial and temporal variability of malaria infections in Mozambique.

Methods

We used monthly malaria cases from 2016 to 2018 at the district level. We developed an hierarchical spatial–temporal model in a Bayesian framework. Monthly malaria cases were assumed to follow a negative binomial distribution. We used integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) in R for Bayesian inference and distributed lag nonlinear modeling (DLNM) framework to explore exposure-response relationships between climate variables and risk of malaria infection in Mozambique, while adjusting for socioeconomic factors.

Results

A total of 19,948,295 malaria cases were reported between 2016 and 2018 in Mozambique. Malaria risk increased with higher monthly mean temperatures between 20 and 29°C, at mean temperature of 25°C, the risk of malaria was 3.45 times higher (RR 3.45 [95%CI: 2.37–5.03]). Malaria risk was greatest for NDVI above 0.22. The risk of malaria was 1.34 times higher (1.34 [1.01–1.79]) at monthly RH of 55%. Malaria risk reduced by 26.1%, for total monthly precipitation of 480 mm (0.739 [95%CI: 0.61–0.90]) at lag 2 months, while for lower total monthly precipitation of 10 mm, the risk of malaria was 1.87 times higher (1.87 [1.30–2.69]). After adjusting for climate variables, having lower level of education significantly increased malaria risk (1.034 [1.014–1.054]) and having electricity (0.979 [0.967–0.992]) and sharing toilet facilities (0.957 [0.924–0.991]) significantly reduced malaria risk.

Conclusion

Our current study identified lag patterns and association between climate variables and malaria incidence in Mozambique. Extremes in climate variables were associated with an increased risk of malaria transmission, peaks in transmission were varied. Our findings provide insights for designing early warning, prevention, and control strategies to minimize seasonal malaria surges and associated infections in Mozambique a region where Malaria causes substantial burden from illness and deaths.
Association of urinary phthalate metabolites with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality among adults with diabetes mellitus: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2014
Authors: Wang Zhihong , Deng Yao , Gao Sikang , Lin Zefang , Zheng Zhixiong , Fang Qin , Zhan Meixiao , Sun Taoping , Huang Guomin , Geng Xuyang
Published: June 2023

Background

The study regarding phthalate metabolites and mortality among diabetes mellitus (DM) is limited. We aimed to examine the association of urinary phthalate metabolites with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality among adults with DM.

Methods

This study included 8,931 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005–2006 to 2013–2014. Mortality data were linked to National Death Index public access files through December 31, 2015. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidences (CIs) for mortality.

Results

We identified 1,603 adults with DM [mean ± SE age, 47.08 ± 0.30 years; 50.5% (833) were men]. Mono-(carboxynonyl) phthalate (MCNP), mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate (MECPP), and the sum of Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites (∑DEHP) were positively associated with DM (MCNP: OR = 1.53, 95%CI = 1.16–2.01; MECPP: OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.03–1.32; ∑DEHP: OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.00–1.29). Among DM patients, mono-(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP) was associated with a 34% (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.12–1.61) increased risk of all-cause mortality while the HRs (95%CI) of CVD mortality were 2.02 (1.13–3.64) for MCPP, 2.17 (1.26–3.75) for mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), 2.47 (1.43–4.28) for mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), 2.65 (1.51–4.63) for MECPP, and 2.56 (1.46–4.46) for ∑DEHP, respectively.

Conclusion

This study is an academic exploration of the association between urinary phthalate metabolites and mortality among adults with DM, suggesting that exposure to phthalates might be associated with an increased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in DM. These findings suggest that patients with DM should carefully use plastics products.
Identification of status quo and association rules for chronic comorbidity among Chinese middle-aged and older adults rural residents
Authors: Yu Zijing , Chen Yuquan , Xia Qianhang , Qu Qingru , Dai Tao
Published: June 2023

Background

Chronic comorbidity has become a major challenge in chronic disease prevention and control. This issue is particularly pronounced in rural areas of developing countries, where the prevalence of chronic disease comorbidity is high, especially among middle-aged and older adults populations. However, the health status of middle-aged and older adults individuals in rural areas of China has received inadequate attention. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the correlation among chronic diseases to establish a reference basis for adjusting health policies aimed at promoting the prevention and management of chronic diseases among middle-aged and older adults individuals.

Methods

This study selected 2,262 middle-aged and older adults residents aged 50 years or older in Shangang Village, Jiangsu Province, China, as the study population. To analyze the chronic comorbidity of middle-aged and older adults residents with different characteristics, we used the χ2 test with SPSS statistical software. Data analysis was conducted using the Apriori algorithm of Python software, set to mine the strong association rules of positive correlation between chronic disease comorbidities of middle-aged and older adults residents.

Results

The prevalence of chronic comorbidity was 56.6%. The chronic disease comorbidity group with the highest prevalence rate was the lumbar osteopenia + hypertension group. There were significant differences in the prevalence of chronic disease comorbidity among middle-aged and older adults residents in terms of gender, BMI, and chronic disease management. The Apriori algorithm was used to screen 15 association rules for the whole population, 11 for genders, and 15 for age groups. According to the order of support, the most common association rules of comorbidity of three chronic diseases were: {lumbar osteopenia} → {hypertension} (support: 29.22%, confidence: 58.44%), {dyslipidemia} → {hypertension} (support: 19.14%, confidence: 65.91%) and {fatty liver} → {hypertension} (support: 17.82%, confidence: 64.17%).

Conclusion

The prevalence of chronic comorbidity among middle-aged and older adults rural residents in China is relatively high. We identified many association rules among chronic diseases, dyslipidemia is mostly the antecedent, and hypertension is primarily the result. In particular, the majority of comorbidity aggregation patterns consisted of hypertension and dyslipidemia. By implementing scientifically-proven prevention and control strategies, the development of healthy aging can be promoted.
Building awareness and capacity of bioinformatics and open science skills in Kenya: a sensitize, train, hack, and collaborate model
Authors: Karega Pauline , Mwaura David K. , Mwangi Kennedy W. , Wanjiku Margaret , Landi Michael , Kibet Caleb K.
Published: June 2023

We have applied the sensitize-train-hack-community model to build awareness of and capacity in bioinformatics in Kenya. Open science is the practice of science openly and collaboratively, with tools, techniques, and data freely shared to facilitate reuse and collaboration. Open science is not a mandatory curriculum course in schools, whereas bioinformatics is relatively new in some African regions. Open science tools can significantly enhance bioinformatics, leading to increased reproducibility. However, open science and bioinformatics skills, especially blended, are still lacking among students and researchers in resource-constrained regions. We note the need to be aware of the power of open science among the bioinformatics community and a clear strategy to learn bioinformatics and open science skills for use in research. Using the OpenScienceKE framework—Sensitize, Train, Hack, Collaborate/Community—the BOSS (Bioinformatics and Open Science Skills) virtual events built awareness and empowered researchers with the skills and tools in open science and bioinformatics. Sensitization was achieved through a symposium, training through a workshop and train-the-trainer program, hack through mini-projects, community through conferences, and continuous meet-ups. In this paper, we discuss how we applied the framework during the BOSS events and highlight lessons learnt in planning and executing the events and their impact on the outcome of each phase. We evaluate the impact of the events through anonymous surveys. We show that sensitizing and empowering researchers with the skills works best when the participants apply the skills to real-world problems: project-based learning. Furthermore, we have demonstrated how to implement virtual events in resource-constrained settings by providing Internet and equipment support to participants, thus improving accessibility and diversity.
Regulation of microbial community structure, function, and nutrient of apple orchard soil by interplanting red clover
Authors: Jiao Kuibao , Wu Yuqi , Guo Baitao , Zhang Lei , Li Yuze , Song Penghui
Published: June 2023

Soil microbial communities are seen to be critical to the maintenance of soil health and quality. Many studies have suggested that soil microbial community composition is affected by different plant species. Based on this theory, we tried to improve the apple orchard soil microorganisms and nutrients by interplanting leguminous forage red clover (RC), meanwhile taking the natural mixed herb (NMH) naturally growing in the orchard as a control. The metagenomic analysis showed that interplanting red clover in the apple orchard markedly improved the soil microbial community composition, especially compared with natural mixed herbs, the abundance ofNitrospiraeandGlomeromycotawas higher. Compared with genus level, there are more unique bacteria species in RC, 84 species were unique to treatment (RC) soil and 43 species were unique to control group (NMH). The activities of glycoside hydrolase and carbohydrate-binding modules in RC were significantly higher than those in NMH, while compared with the control group (NMH), the activity of glycoside hydrolase and carbohydrate binding module in the treatment group (RC) was significantly higher, but the activity of glycosyl transferase was lower. In addition, only 5 of the 15 virulence factors they contain were lower in the RC, while the rest were higher in the control group. Based on the above results, we speculate that intercropping red clover can not only significantly improve soil quality, soil microbial community composition and soil fertility, but also effectively improve land use efficiency and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
Paroxysmal epigastric pain 30 years after abdominal trauma surgery—a case report
Authors: Zhang Yisheng , Lu Xin , Xu Yiyao
Published: June 2023

A 58-year-old male was admitted to the liver surgery ward of Peking Union Medical College Hospital as the result of recurrent cholangitis in the past six months. Preoperative abdominal CT and gastrointestinal radiography showed duodenal dilatation and reconstruction of gastrointestinal tract, which might be related to the laparotomy and hemostasis performed due to traffic accident 30 years ago. The operative method of that surgery might be the reason for the patient's choledocholithiasis and duodenal dilatation.
Special Issue on Aquatic Animal Health in Vulnerable Environments
Authors: Topić Popović Natalija
Published: May 2023

Aquatic animals, whether marine or freshwater animals, and whether farmed or wild, face a number of threats related to their water environment [...]
Reduction of Train-Induced Vibrations—Calculations of Different Railway Lines and Mitigation Measures in the Transmission Path
Authors: Auersch Lutz
Published: June 2023

The reduction of train-induced ground vibrations by different railway lines and by mitigation measures in the propagation path is analysed in a unified approach by two-dimensional finite element calculations where the reduction is expressed as the amplitude ratio between a specific and the reference situation (the surface track without a mitigation measure). In general, there is no reduction at low frequencies, and the reduction becomes stronger with increasing frequency. A maximum reduction ratio of 0.1 at high frequencies is established with an open trench. Reduction ratios between 0.7 and 0.2 have been found for the other situations, filled trenches, walls, plates, and blocks, as well as for railway lines on embankment, in cuts and in a tunnel. Bridges can produce amplifications due to their resonance frequencies, but also strong reductions due to the massive bridge piers. The influence of some parameters has been analysed, the length of the bridge span, the inclination of the embankment and the cut, and the stiffness of the soil and of the tunnel structure. The dynamic track stiffnesses of a surface, bridge and tunnel track have been calculated by the 3D finite-element boundary-element method for comparison with corresponding measurements.
Computational and Experimental Investigation of the Combined Effect of Various 3D Scaffolds and Bioreactor Stimulation on Human Cells’ Feedback
Authors: Kozaniti Foteini K. , Manara Aikaterini E. , Kostopoulos Vassilis , Mallis Panagiotis , Michalopoulos Efstathios , Polyzos Demosthenes , Deligianni Despina D. , Portan Diana V.
Published: June 2023

Computational methods were combined with an experimental setup in order to investigate the response of human umbilical cord stem cells to 3D electrospun and printed scaffolds, when dynamically stimulated in a bioreactor. Key parameters associated to bioreactor working conditions were computationally investigated using Comsol software to use the output for the planned experimental setup. Based on the theoretical observations, the influence of the inlet velocity, cell number, and exposure time in the bioreactor were analyzed and the in vitro parameters were adjusted accordingly. MSCs were seeded in different numbers in the 3D porous scaffolds and stimulated in the bioreactor (0.5 and 2 h duration, 3 and 6 mm/s inlet velocity). Polycaprolactone 3D electrospun, and polyurethane and polylactic acid 3D-printed scaffolds were fabricated and fibronectin-coated. The computational study predicted initial events in the process of cells deposition and attachment. Total protein, osteopontin, and osteocalcin levels in cells deposited in scaffolds were investigated; SEM and confocal imaging confirmed the biomarker analysis. MSCs proliferated well in PCL. Polyurethane enabled extremely rapid proliferation followed by differentiation, while PLA induced a moderate proliferation and parallel mineralization. The scaffolds stiffness has been found as the key enabling parameter decisive for cells feedback.
Production and Properties of Quercetin-Loaded Liposomes and Their Influence on the Properties of Galactomannan-Based Films
Authors: de Albuquerque Priscilla Barbosa Sales , de Souza Marthyna Pessoa , Bourbon Ana Isabel , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Pastrana Lorenzo , Jauregi Paula , Teixeira José A. , das Graças Carneiro-da-Cunha Maria
Published: June 2023

The objective of this work was to prepare different concentrations of liposomes based on lecithin containing quercetin, and evaluate their effect on the properties of galactomannan films obtained from Cassia grandis seeds. Quercetin-loaded lecithin liposomes (QT-LL) were obtained by the ethanol injection method by incorporating quercetin in different concentrations in a previously prepared suspension of lecithin liposomes in water. Following characterization of QT-LLs by zeta potential and dynamic light scattering, QT-LL with 75 µg quercetin/mL suspension was incorporated at different concentrations in galactomannan films. The films obtained were characterized for color, solubility, moisture content (MC), water vapor permeability (WVP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The size of lecithin liposomes with no quercetin was statistically than those containing quercetin above 50 µg/mL. All the QT-LLs presented a low polydispersity index, even considering their significant differences and similar values for zeta potential. The films displayed a rough surface and the galactomannan structure was confirmed by FTIR. Additionally, the amorphous nature of the polysaccharide was observed by XRD. The films were luminous, with a predominant yellow tendency and low opacity. The incorporation of QT-LL in galactomannan films did not lead to statistical differences for solubility and MC, while significant differences were observed for WVP. Galactomannan films were shown to be a promising structure for the incorporation of lecithin liposomes loaded with quercetin, pointing at promising applications for different applications.
Thyroid, Gonadal and Adrenal Dysfunction in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Review for the Clinician
Authors: Bilha Stefana Catalina , Hogas Simona , Hogas Mihai , Marcu Stefan , Leustean Letitia , Ungureanu Maria-Christina , Branisteanu Dumitru D. , Preda Cristina
Published: June 2023

While chronic kidney disease-associated mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) prevail in the endocrinological assessment of CKD patients, other endocrine abnormalities are usually overlooked. CKD is associated with significant thyroid, adrenal and gonadal dysfunction, while persistent and de novo endocrinological abnormalities are frequent among kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Low T3 levels prior to transplantation may help identify those at risk for delayed graft function and are often found in KTR. Thyroid surveillance after kidney transplantation should be considered due to structural anomalies that may occur. Despite the rapid recovery of gonadal hormonal secretion after renal transplantation, fertility is not completely restored. Testosterone may improve anemia and general symptoms in KTR with persistent hypogonadism. Female KTR may still experience abnormal uterine bleeding, for which estroprogestative administration may be beneficial. Glucocorticoid administration suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary–adrenal axis in KTR, leading to metabolic syndrome. Patients should be informed about signs and symptoms of hypoadrenalism that may occur after glucocorticoid withdrawal, prompting adrenal function assessment. Clinicians should be more aware of the endocrine abnormalities experienced by their KTR patients, as these may significantly impact the quality of life. In clinical practice, awareness of the specific endocrine dysfunctions experienced by KTR patients ensures the correct management of these complications in a multidisciplinary team, while avoiding unnecessary treatment.
Development of a Performance Index Model for Evaluation of BIM-Based Stakeholder Management Using Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation
Authors: Gaur Sulakshya , Tawalare Abhay
Published: June 2023

A continuous evaluation of the stakeholder management process can be achieved using definitive key performance indicators (KPIs). An exhaustive literature survey in this direction provided a set of 26 indicators assessed through a questionnaire survey for their possible implications on the stakeholder management process. The survey was conducted among 55 respondents with experience in using building information modeling (BIM) in mega-construction projects. The data were initially analyzed through factor analysis to establish six KPIs. Fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) was used to evaluate the index values of the established KPIs to assess their importance levels. The results presented the KPIs in decreasing order of their index values: asset performance (4.27), open innovation (4.04), project O&M expenses (3.97), design process efficiency (3.95), project execution efficiency (3.90), and stakeholder concerns (3.59). The results generated a stakeholder management process assessment framework and model that provides a clear insight into using an indicator in measuring the specific stakeholder management dimension. The findings of this work can provide definite insight amongst planning managers about the stakeholder management process through the posited indicators. Further, they can adopt measures to improve the stakeholder management process in their respective projects.
Mechanical Behavior of Transparent Spinel Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Hoggas Khadidja , Benaissa Salim , Cherouana Abdelbaki , Bouheroum Sofiane , Assali Abdenacer , Hamidouche Mohamed , Fantozzi Gilbert
Published: June 2023

In this work, a transparent nanostructured ceramic magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl2O4) was fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) from commercial spinel nano-powders at different temperatures (1300, 1350 and 1400 °C). The sintered samples were thoroughly examined to assess their microstructural, optical, and mechanical properties. Various techniques such as SEM, AFM, spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere, instrumented Vickers indenter, Pin-on-Disk tribometer, scratch tester, and sandblasting device were employed to characterize the sintered samples. The results indicated the significant impact of the sintering temperature on the properties of the spinel samples. Particularly, the samples sintered at T = 1350 °C exhibited the highest Real In-line Transmission (RIT = 72% at 550 nm and 80% at 1000 nm). These samples demonstrated the highest hardness value (HV = 16.7 GPa) compared to those sintered at 1300 °C (HV = 15.6 GPa) and 1400 °C (HV = 15.1 GPa). The measured fracture toughness of the sintered samples increased substantially with increasing sintering temperature. Similarly, the tribological study revealed that the friction coefficient of the sintered spinel samples increased with the sintering temperature, and the spinel sintered at 1350 °C exhibited the lowest wear rate. Additionally, sandblasting and scratch tests confirmed the significant influence of the sintering temperature on the mechanical properties of the fabricated spinels. Overall, the spinel sintered at 1350 °C presented the best compromise in terms of all the evaluated properties.
Wind Pressure Orthogonal Decomposition Anemometer: A Wind Measurement Device for Multi-Rotor UAVs
Authors: Hou Tianhao , Xing Hongyan , Gu Wei , Liang Xinyi , Li Haoqi , Zhang Huaizhou
Published: June 2023

Wind speed and direction are critical meteorological elements. Multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles UAVs are widely used as a premium payload platform in meteorological monitoring. The meteorological UAV is able to improve the spatial and temporal resolution of the elements collected. However, during wind measurement missions, the installed anemometers are susceptible to interference caused by rotor turbulence. This paper puts forward a wind pressure orthogonal decomposition (WPOD) strategy to overcome this limitation in three ways: the location of the sensors, a new wind measurement method, and supporting equipment. A weak turbulence zone (WTZ) is found around the airframe, where the turbulence strength decays rapidly and is more suitable for installing wind measurement sensors. For the sensors to match the spatial structure of this area, a WPOD wind measurement method is proposed. An anemometer based on this principle was mounted on a quadrotor UAV to build a wind measurement system. Compared with a standard anemometer, this system has satisfactory performance. Analysis of the resulting data indicates that the error of the system is ±0.3 m/s and ±2° under hovering conditions and ±0.7 m/s and ±5° under moving conditions. In summary, WPOD points to a new orientation for wind measurement under a small spatial–temporal scale.