bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring End-of-Life Care for Patients with Breast Cancer, Dementia or Heart Failure: A Register-Based Study of Individual and Institutional Factors
Authors: Hagen Terje P. , Zelko Erika
Published: May 2024

Objective: To examine variations in end-of-life care for breast cancer, heart failure, and dementia patients. Data and methods: Data from four Norwegian health registries were linked using a personal identification number. Longitudinal trends over 365 days and the type of care on the final day of life were analyzed using descriptive techniques and logistic regression analysis. Results: Patients with dementia were more commonly placed in nursing homes than patients in the two other groups, while patients with heart failure and breast cancer were more frequently hospitalized than the dementia patients. Breast cancer and heart failure patients had a higher likelihood of dying at home than dementia patients. The higher the number of general practitioners, the higher was the probability of home-based end-of-life care for cancer patients, while an increasing non-physician healthcare workers increased the likelihood of home-based care for the other patient groups. Conclusions: Diagnoses, individual characteristics, and service availability are all associated with the place of death in end-of-life care. The higher the availability of health care services, the higher also is the probability of ending the life at home.
Implementation of the Recovery Model and Its Outcomes in Patients with Severe Mental Disorder
Authors: Sánchez-Guarnido Antonio José , Ruiz-Granados María Isabel , Garrido-Cervera José Antonio , Herruzo Javier , Herruzo Carlos
Published: May 2024

Background: The recovery model assumes that the patient can experience personal growth even while maintaining symptoms of a mental disorder. In order to achieve this recovery, the practices of professionals must also change. However, in our setting, there are limited data on the implementation of practices based on the recovery model and their effect on personal recovery. Objective: To describe the association between professionals’ practices and patients’ personal recovery. Methods: An observational and cross-sectional study in which the Recovery Self-Assessment (RSA) was used to assess the degree of implementation of the different practices and the Recovery Assessment Scale (RAS) was used to assess the personal recovery of 307 patients with severe mental disorders. Results: Patients attended by professionals who followed the recovery model obtained a greater personal recovery (p < 0.001, d = 1.10). The dimension associated with greater recovery was that of working toward life goals. The least implemented dimensions had to do with offering treatment options and patient participation in decision-making. This study was conducted in accordance with STROBE (STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology). Conclusions: Although this is a cross-sectional study that does not allow us to establish causal relationships, it shows that the model with which mental health professionals work is associated with patients’ chances of recovery. We therefore consider that it is important to foster the implementation of practices based on the recovery model within mental health care.
Treatment Patterns and Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Moderate to Severe Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease: A Multicenter Chart Review Study
Authors: Michonneau David , Devillier Raynier , Keränen Mikko , Rubio Marie Thérèse , Nicklasson Malin , Labussière-Wallet Hélène , Carre Martin , Huynh Anne , Viayna Elisabet , Roset Montserrat , Finzi Jonathan , Pfeiffer Minja , Thunström Daniel , Lara Núria , Sabatelli Lorenzo , Chevallier Patrice , Itälä-Remes Maija
Published: May 2024

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) remains a barrier to successful allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) outcomes. Contemporary comprehensive analyses of real-world clinical outcomes among patients who develop aGVHD post-HSCT are needed to better understand the unmet needs of this patient population. This multicenter, retrospective chart review describes treatment patterns and clinical outcomes among patients (≥18 years old) from Finland, Sweden, and France who developed grades II–IV aGVHD after their first HSCT (January 2016–June 2017). From 13 participating centers, 151 patients were included. The median (Q1, Q3) age at HSCT was 56 (45, 62) years old. One line of aGVHD treatment was received by 47.7%, and the most common first-line treatment was methylprednisolone (alone or in a combination regimen, 74.2%; monotherapy, 25.8%). Among patients treated with methylprednisolone, 79.5% achieved a complete or partial response. The median (Q1, Q3) number of treatment lines was 2.0 (1.0, 3.0). The median (Q1, Q3) time to obtain an aGVHD diagnosis from transplant was 29.5 (21.0, 44.0) days, and 14.5 (7.0, 34.0) days to achieve the best response for 110 evaluable patients. At 6 and 12 months, 53.6% and 49.0%, respectively, achieved a complete response. Chronic GVHD occurred in 37.7% of patients, and aGVHD reoccurred in 26.5%. Following aGVHD diagnosis, mortality rates were 30.0% at 6 months and 37.3% at 12 months. Findings from this study demonstrate a continuing unmet need for new therapies that control aGVHD and improve mortality.
Neverovsky Palaeoreef and Associated Deep-Marine Facies: High-Value Late Devonian Geoheritage from the Rudny Altai
Authors: Gutak Jaroslav M. , Ruban Dmitry A.
Published: May 2024

The Rudny Altai is a western segment of the Altai orogenic belt. Its geological richness makes its geoheritage exploration an urgent matter. Investigations in the Loktevsky District (Altai Region, Russian Federation) have led to the finding of three notable localities, which are proposed as geosites. Field investigations and both qualitative and semi-quantitative (scoring by criteria) studies were carried out to characterize and value the geoheritage properties of these localities. The Neverovsky palaeoreef is a relatively large geosite, representing a Frasnian reef developed on a volcanic edifice. The Zolotukha section and the Razdolnoe section are smaller geosites representing deep-marine facies of the Giventian–Frasnian transition and the late Frasnian, respectively. Seven geoheritage types are established in the Neverovsky palaeoreef, and four geoheritage types are established in the other two geosites. Examination of rarity, accessibility, vulnerability, and other properties allows the ranking of the Neverovsky palaeoreef globally and the other two geosites regionally. The three proposed geosites need special geoconservation measures (especially regarding their rich fossil content). The palaeoreef can be used for the promotion of local tourism.
Sodium Chloride Tolerance during Germination and Seedling Stages of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Lines Native to Mexico
Authors: López-Méndez Ariadna Goreti , Rodríguez-Pérez Juan Enrique , Mascorro-Gallardo José Oscar , Sahagún-Castellanos Jaime , Lobato-Ortiz Ricardo
Published: May 2024

Tomato is considered moderately sensitive to salinity, which detracts from the quality and yield of its fruit; therefore, wild populations have been used as a genetic resource. The aim of this research was to identify lines derived from wild tomato populations with tolerance to salinity during the germination and seedling stages. During germination, 52 wild lines and 2 commercial hybrids (Imperial®, Reserva®) were subjected to treatment with 150 mM and 0 mM NaCl and evaluated. The test was carried out for 20 days in a germination chamber with constant darkness, a temperature of 25 ± 2 °C and relative humidity conditions of 80 ± 4%. At the seedling stage, 22 wild tomato lines with the best performance in the germination test and 2 commercial hybrids (Imperial®, Topanga®) were evaluated for 12 days in a floating raft system. Concentrations of 175 mM and 0 mM of NaCl were used. During germination, the saline condition decreased the germination percentage (65.2%), speed of germination (88.2%), steam length (72.5%), root length (46.56%), number of normal plants (59.5%), stem dry matter (68.78%), root dry matter (61.99%), and total dry matter (67.1%). At the seedling stage, this condition decreased (p < 0.05) the aerial part dry matter (46.37%), leaf area (59.35%), root length (42.43%), final plant height (40.24%), and growth rate (71.42%). Seventeen tolerant genotypes were identified in one of the two developmental stages, while one genotype showed tolerance in both stages. These results indicate that there are different response mechanisms in each developmental stage. Native tomatoes play an important role in the identification of tolerant genotypes since they can be used as genetic resources for obtaining commercial genotypes with salt tolerance.
Hydrogen Formation from Water with Various Reducing Metals Catalyzed by In Situ-Generated Nickel Nanoparticles
Authors: Shirman Ron , Sasson Yoel
Published: May 2024

Water is a potential green source for the generation of clean elemental hydrogen without contaminants. One of the most convenient methods for hydrogen generation is based on the oxidation of different metals by water. The inspection of the catalytic activity toward hydrogen formation from water performed in this study was carried out using four different metals, namely, zinc, magnesium, iron, and manganese. The process is catalyzed by in situ-generated nickel nanoparticles. The zinc–water system was found to be the most effective and exhibited 94% conversion in 4 h. The solid phase in the latter system was characterized by PXRD and SEM techniques. Several blank tests provided a fundamental understanding of the role of each constituent within the system, and a molecular mechanism for the catalytic cycle was proposed.
School of Nursing Climate Commitment: Nursing Faculty Bring Climate to the Classroom
Authors: Demorest Shanda , Cook Cara , Schenk Elizabeth , Harris Lisa Whitfield , Earley Andrea
Published: May 2024

In 2021, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) added “the impact of climate change on environmental and population health” into The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education. Presently, little guidance exists for nursing faculty new to climate education. The year prior, the Nurses Climate Challenge (NCC)—a campaign to educate 50,000 health professionals about health impacts of climate change—launched the School of Nursing Commitment through a series of focus groups and collaborative content development. With an aim of increasing access to knowledge and tools to support education about the health impacts of climate change, the NCC Commitment partners with nursing schools and provides a community of practice. Partner schools use NCC resources in courses and report the number of students educated. Within three years, 61 nursing schools in 30 states joined the Commitment. Participants included academic health centers, research institutions, multi-state schools, and small private colleges, and programs ranged from AD to PhD. Faculty (1) integrated resources into didactic and clinical settings, such as population or organ-system content, leadership, and policy; and (2) used resources to support assignments. In four years, faculty reported educating over 37,700 students, using NCC resources in 439 educational sessions. The Commitment may be valuable for faculty fulfilling AACN Essentials by bringing climate change to the classroom, community, and bedside. Furthermore, the Commitment may be a replicable model for health professional education and inspiring action on climate change.
Evaluating the Agreement between Oral, Armpit, and Ear Temperature Readings during Physical Activities in an Outdoor Setting
Authors: Zhao Yuanzhe , de Almeida e Bueno Leonardo , Holdsworth David A. , Bergmann Jeroen H. M.
Published: May 2024

Accurate body temperature measurement is essential for monitoring and managing safety during outdoor activities. Physical activities are an essential consideration for public health, with sports taking up an important proportion of these. Athletes’ performances can be directly affected by body temperature fluctuations, with overheating or hypothermia posing serious health risks. Monitoring these temperatures allows coaches and medical staff to make decisions that enhance performance and safety. Traditional methods, like oral, axillary, and tympanic readings, are widely used, but face challenges during intense physical activities in real-world environments. This study evaluated the agreement, correlation, and interchangeability of oral, axillary, and tympanic temperature measurements in outdoor exercise conditions. Systems developed for specific placements might generate different sensor readouts. Conducted as an observational field study, it involved 21 adult participants (11 males and 10 females, average age 25.14 ± 5.80 years) that underwent the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test protocol on an outdoor court. The main outcomes measured were the agreement and correlation between temperature readings from the three methods, both before and after exercise. The results indicate poor agreement between the measurement sites, with significant deviations observed post-exercise. Although the Spearman correlation coefficients showed consistent temperature changes post-exercise across all methods, the standard deviations in the pairwise comparisons exceeded 0.67 °C. This study concluded that widely used temperature measurement methods are challenging to use during outdoor exercises and should not be considered interchangeable. This variability, especially after exercise, underscores the need for further research using gold standard temperature measurement methods to determine the most suitable site for accurate readings. Care should thus be taken when temperature screening is done at scale using traditional methods, as each measurement site should be considered within its own right.
Low-Level Visual Features of Window Views Contribute to Perceived Naturalness and Mental Health Outcomes
Authors: Samaan Larissa , Klock Leonie , Weber Sandra , Reidick Mirjam , Ascone Leonie , Kühn Simone
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have shown that natural window views are beneficial for mental health, but it is still unclear which specific features constitute a ‘natural’ window view. On the other hand, studies on image analysis found that low-level visual features (LLVFs) are associated with perceived naturalness, but mainly conducted experiments with brief stimulus presentations. In this study, research on the effects of window views on mental health was combined with the detailed analysis of LLVFs. Healthy adults rated window views from their home and sent in photographs of those views for analysis. Content validity of the ‘ecological’ view assessment was evaluated by checking correlations of LLVFs with window view ratings. Afterwards, it was explored which of the LLVFs best explained variance in perceived percentage of nature and man-made elements, and in ratings of view quality. Criterion validity was tested by investigating which variables were associated with negative affect and impulsive decision-making. The objective and subjective assessments of nature/sky in the view were aligned but objective brightness was unreliable. The perceived percentage of nature was significantly explained by green pixel ratio, while view quality was associated with fractals, saturation, sky pixel ratio and straight edge density. The higher subjective brightness of rooms was associated with a lower negative affect, whereas results for impulsive decision-making were inconsistent. The research highlights the validity to apply LLVFs analysis to ecological window views. For affect, subjective brightness seemed to be more relevant than LLVFs. For impulsive decision-making, performance context needs to be controlled in future studies.
Delineating Source and Sink Zones of Trip Journeys in the Road Network Space
Authors: Shi Yan , Chen Bingrong , Huang Jincai , Wang Da , Liu Huimin , Deng Min
Published: May 2024

Source–sink zones refer to aggregated adjacent origins/destinations with homogeneous trip flow characteristics. Current relevant studies mostly detect source–sink zones based on outflow/inflow volumes without considering trip routes. Nevertheless, trip routes detail individuals’ journeys on road networks and give rise to relationships among human activities, road network structures, and land-use types. Therefore, this study developed a novel approach to delineate source–sink zones based on trip route aggregation on road networks. We first represented original trajectories using road segment sequences and applied the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model to associate trajectories with route semantics. We then ran a hierarchical clustering operation to aggregate trajectories with similar route semantics. Finally, we adopted an adaptive multi-variable agglomeration strategy to associate the trajectory clusters with each traffic analysis zone to delineating source and sink zones, with a trajectory topic entropy defined as an indicator to analyze the dynamic impact between the road network and source–sink zones. We used taxi trajectories in Xiamen, China, to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Collaborative Methods of Resolving Road Graphic Conflicts Based on Cartographic Rules and Generalization Operations
Authors: Zheng Chuanbang , Guo Qingsheng , Wang Lin , Liu Yuangang , Jiang Jianfeng
Published: May 2024

The resolution of road graphic conflicts is a key aspect of map generalization, which involves both scale reduction and the symbolization of map features. This study proposes collaborative methods of road graphic conflict resolution considering different road characteristics. These methods consider both geometric and semantic characteristics, and they incorporate the bend characteristics of roads, the road symbol size, and road semantics. Constrained Delaunay triangulation skeleton lines are used to categorize road graphic conflicts, which are made up of four independent conflict types and four group conflict types. Based on their characteristics, three collaborative methods are designed to deal with the different types of road graphic conflicts: collaboration between deletion and the snake displacement model, collaboration between the snake displacement model and collinearity, and collaboration among simplification, smoothing, and the beam displacement model. Two types of independent conflicts can be processed using only one simple operation. This study summarizes the cartographic rules for resolving road graphic conflicts, and these are used along with geometric features to drive the collaborative methods or one simple operation presented here. The experimental results indicate that the method proposed in this study can effectively resolve road graphic conflicts.
Multiplex Detection of Fluorescent Chemokine Binding to CXC Chemokine Receptors by NanoBRET
Authors: Adamska Justyna M. , Leftheriotis Spyridon , Bosma Reggie , Vischer Henry F. , Leurs Rob
Published: May 2024

NanoLuc-mediated bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (NanoBRET) has gained popularity for its ability to homogenously measure ligand binding to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including the subfamily of chemokine receptors. These receptors, such as ACKR3, CXCR4, CXCR3, play a crucial role in the regulation of the immune system, are associated with inflammatory diseases and cancer, and are seen as promising drug targets. The aim of this study was to optimize NanoBRET-based ligand binding to NLuc-ACKR3 and NLuc-CXCR4 using different fluorescently labeled chemokine CXCL12 analogs and their use in a multiplex NanoBRET binding assay of two chemokine receptors at the same time. The four fluorescent CXCL12 analogs (CXCL12-AZD488, -AZD546, -AZD594, -AZD647) showed high-affinity saturable binding to both NLuc-ACKR3 and NLuc-CXCR4, with relatively low levels of non-specific binding. Additionally, the binding of all AZDye-labeled CXCL12s to Nluc receptors was inhibited by pharmacologically relevant unlabeled chemokines and small molecules. The NanoBRET binding assay for CXCL10-AZD488 binding to Nluc-CXCR3 was also successfully established and successfully employed for the simultaneous measurement of the binding of unlabeled small molecules to NLuc-CXCR3 and NLuc-CXCR4. In conclusion, multiplexing the NanoBRET-based competition binding assay is a promising tool for testing unlabeled (small) molecules against multiple GPCRs simultaneously.
The Transcription Factor Mohawk Facilitates Skeletal Muscle Repair via Modulation of the Inflammatory Environment
Authors: Lynch Cherie Alissa , Acosta Sofia A. , Anderson Douglas M. , Rogers Gavin E. , Wilson-Rawls Jeanne , Rawls Alan
Published: May 2024

Efficient repair of skeletal muscle relies upon the precise coordination of cells between the satellite cell niche and innate immune cells that are recruited to the site of injury. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as TNFα, IFNγ, CXCL1, and CCL2, by muscle and tissue resident immune cells recruits neutrophils and M1 macrophages to the injury and activates satellite cells. These signal cascades lead to highly integrated temporal and spatial control of muscle repair. Despite the therapeutic potential of these factors for improving tissue regeneration after traumatic and chronic injuries, their transcriptional regulation is not well understood. The transcription factor Mohawk (Mkx) functions as a repressor of myogenic differentiation and regulates fiber type specification. Embryonically, Mkx is expressed in all progenitor cells of the musculoskeletal system and is expressed in human and mouse myeloid lineage cells. An analysis of mice deficient for Mkx revealed a delay in postnatal muscle repair characterized by impaired clearance of necrotic fibers and smaller newly regenerated fibers. Further, there was a delay in the expression of inflammatory signals such as Ccl2, Ifnγ, and Tgfß. This was coupled with impaired recruitment of pro-inflammatory macrophages to the site of muscle damage. These studies demonstrate that Mkx plays a critical role in adult skeletal muscle repair that is mediated through the initial activation of the inflammatory response.
Shading Treatment Reduces Grape Sugar Content by Suppressing Photosynthesis-Antenna Protein Pathway Gene Expression in Grape Berries
Authors: Nan Xintong , Li Wenfang , Shao Miao , Cui Zimeng , Wang Han , Huo Jiaxing , Chen Lizhen , Chen Baihong , Ma Zonghuan
Published: May 2024

To explore the impact of shade treatment on grape berries, ‘Marselan’ grape berries were bagged under different light transmission rates (100% (CK), 75% (A), 50% (B), 25% (C), 0% (D)). It was observed that this treatment delayed the ripening of the grape berries. The individual weight of the grape berries, as well as the content of fructose, glucose, soluble sugars, and organic acids in the berries, was measured at 90, 100, and 125 days after flowering (DAF90, DAF100, DAF125). The results revealed that shading treatment reduced the sugar content in grape berries; the levels of fructose and glucose were higher in the CK treatment compared to the other treatments, and they increased with the duration of the shading treatment. Conversely, the sucrose content exhibited the opposite trend. Additionally, as the weight of the grape berries increased, the content of soluble solids and soluble sugars in the berries also increased, while the titratable acidity decreased. Furthermore, 16 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the photosynthesis-antenna protein pathway from the transcriptome sequencing data. Correlation analysis revealed that the expression levels of genes VIT_08s0007g02190 (Lhcb4) and VIT_15s0024g00040 (Lhca3) were positively correlated with sugar content in the berries at DAF100, but negatively correlated at DAF125. qRT-PCR results confirmed the correlation analysis. This indicates that shading grape clusters inhibits the expression of genes in the photosynthesis-antenna protein pathway in the grape berries, leading to a decrease in sugar content. This finding contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact mechanisms of grape cluster shading on berry quality, providing important scientific grounds for improving grape berry quality.
Mitral Cell Dendritic Morphology in the Adult Zebrafish Olfactory Bulb following Growth, Injury and Recovery
Authors: Rozofsky John P. , Pozzuto Joanna M. , Byrd-Jacobs Christine A.
Published: May 2024

The role of afferent target interactions in dendritic plasticity within the adult brain remains poorly understood. There is a paucity of data regarding the effects of deafferentation and subsequent dendritic recovery in adult brain structures. Moreover, although adult zebrafish demonstrate ongoing growth, investigations into the impact of growth on mitral cell (MC) dendritic arbor structure and complexity are lacking. Leveraging the regenerative capabilities of the zebrafish olfactory system, we conducted a comprehensive study to address these gaps. Employing an eight-week reversible deafferentation injury model followed by retrograde labeling, we observed substantial morphological alterations in MC dendrites. Our hypothesis posited that cessation of injury would facilitate recovery of MC dendritic arbor structure and complexity, potentially influenced by growth dynamics. Statistical analyses revealed significant changes in MC dendritic morphology following growth and recovery periods, indicating that MC total dendritic branch length retained significance after 8 weeks of deafferentation injury when normalized to individual fish physical characteristics. This suggests that regeneration of branch length could potentially function relatively independently of growth-related changes. These findings underscore the remarkable plasticity of adult dendritic arbor structures in a sophisticated model organism and highlight the efficacy of zebrafish as a vital implement for studying neuroregenerative processes.
Penifuranone A: A Novel Alkaloid from the Mangrove Endophytic Fungus Penicillium crustosum SCNU-F0006
Authors: Jia Hao , Wu Li , Liu Rongrong , Li Jialin , Liu Lingling , Chen Chen , Li Junsen , Zhang Kai , Liao Junjiang , Long Yuhua
Published: May 2024

One previously undescribed alkaloid, named penifuranone A (1), and three known compounds (2–4) were isolated from the mangrove endophytic fungus Penicillium crustosum SCNU-F0006. The structure of the new alkaloid (1) was elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic data analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Four natural isolates and one new synthetic derivative of penifuranone A, compound 1a, were screened for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Bioassays revealed that penifuranone A (1) exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity in vitro by inhibiting nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW264.7 cells with an IC50 value of 42.2 μM. The docking study revealed that compound 1 exhibited an ideal fit within the active site of the murine inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), establishing characteristic hydrogen bonds.
Interleukin-13 Treatment of Living Lung Tissue Model Alters the Metabolome and Proteome—A Nano-DESI MS Metabolomics and Shotgun Proteomics Study
Authors: Tóth Gábor , Golubova Anastasia , Falk Alexander , Lind Sara Bergström , Nicholas Mark , Lanekoff Ingela
Published: May 2024

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease with one of the largest numbers of cases in the world; thus, constant investigation and technical development are needed to unravel the underlying biochemical mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to develop a nano-DESI MS method for the in vivo characterization of the cellular metabolome. Using air–liquid interface (ALI) cell layers, we studied the role of Interleukin-13 (IL-13) on differentiated lung epithelial cells acting as a lung tissue model. We demonstrate the feasibility of nano-DESI MS for the in vivo monitoring of basal–apical molecular transport, and the subsequent endogenous metabolic response, for the first time. Conserving the integrity of the ALI lung-cell layer enabled us to perform temporally resolved metabolomic characterization followed by “bottom-up” proteomics on the same population of cells. Metabolic remodeling was observed upon histamine and corticosteroid treatment of the IL-13-exposed lung cell monolayers, in correlation with alterations in the proteomic profile. This proof of principle study demonstrates the utility of in vivo nano-DESI MS for characterizing ALI tissue layers, and the new markers identified in our study provide a good starting point for future, larger-scale studies.
Comparison of Muscle Regeneration Effects at Different Melittin Concentrations in Rabbit Atrophied Muscle
Authors: Jang Byeong-Churl , Kwon Eun Sang , Lee Yoon-Jin , Jung Jae Ik , Moon Yong Suk , Kwon Dong Rak
Published: May 2024

This research aimed to explore the healing impacts of Melittin treatment on gastrocnemius muscle wasting caused by immobilization with a cast in rabbits. Twenty-four rabbits were randomly allocated to four groups. The procedures included different injections: 0.2 mL of normal saline to Group 1 (G1-NS); 4 μg/kg of Melittin to Group 2 (G2-4 μg/kg Melittin); 20 μg/kg of Melittin to Group 3 (G3-20 μg/kg Melittin); and 100 μg/kg of Melittin to Group 4 (G4-100 μg/kg Melittin). Ultrasound was used to guide the injections into the rabbits’ atrophied calf muscles following two weeks of immobilization via casting. Clinical measurements, including the length of the calf, the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) of the tibial nerve, and the gastrocnemius muscle thickness, were assessed. Additionally, cross-sectional slices of gastrocnemius muscle fibers were examined, and immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses were performed following two weeks of therapy. The mean regenerative changes, as indicated by clinical parameters, in Group 4 were significantly more pronounced than in the other groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius muscle fibers and immunohistochemical indicators in Group 4 exceeded those in the remaining groups (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis also showed a more significant presence of anti-inflammatory and angiogenic cytokines in Group 4 compared to the others (p < 0.05). Melittin therapy at a higher dosage can more efficiently activate regeneration in atrophied gastrocnemius muscle compared to lower doses of Melittin or normal saline.
Unraveling the Complexities of Toll-like Receptors: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Applications
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsin , Wu Kang-Hsi , Wu Han-Ping
Published: May 2024

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are vital components of the innate immune system, serving as the first line of defense against pathogens by recognizing a wide array of molecular patterns. This review summarizes the critical roles of TLRs in immune surveillance and disease pathogenesis, focusing on their structure, signaling pathways, and implications in various disorders. We discuss the molecular intricacies of TLRs, including their ligand specificity, signaling cascades, and the functional consequences of their activation. The involvement of TLRs in infectious diseases, autoimmunity, chronic inflammation, and cancer is explored, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets. We also examine recent advancements in TLR research, such as the development of specific agonists and antagonists, and their application in immunotherapy and vaccine development. Furthermore, we address the challenges and controversies surrounding TLR research and outline future directions, including the integration of computational modeling and personalized medicine approaches. In conclusion, TLRs represent a promising frontier in medical research, with the potential to significantly impact the development of novel therapeutic strategies for a wide range of diseases.
Neuron-Specific Enolase—What Are We Measuring?
Authors: Babkina Anastasiya S. , Lyubomudrov Maxim A. , Golubev Mikhail A. , Pisarev Mikhail V. , Golubev Arkady M.
Published: May 2024

Since the discovery of the neuron-specific protein by Moore and McGregor in 1965, tens of thousands of studies have investigated the basic and applied significance of neuron-specific enolase (NSE). This promising biomarker, according to many researchers, has not found widespread use in clinical practice, particularly in acute cerebrovascular accidents. Moreover, the several studies refuting the usefulness of serum NSE measurement in critically ill patients leads us to consider the reasons for such contradictory conclusions. In this article, we have analyzed the main directions in the study of NSE and expressed our perspective on the reasons for the contradictory results and the difficulties in implementing the results of these studies in clinical practice. In our opinion, the method of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) used in the majority of the studies is inappropriate for the evaluation of NSE as a marker of central nervous system damage, because it does not allow for the differentiation of heterodimers of enolases and the assessment of the enzymatic activity of this group of enzymatic proteins. Therefore, the methodological approach for the evaluation of NSE (γγ-enolase) as a biomarker needs to be elaborated and improved. Furthermore, the specificity of the applied research methods and the appropriateness of the continued use of the term “neuron-specific enolase” must be addressed.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profile Analysis of the Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase Gene Family in Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Liu Hui , He Qiguang , Hu Yiyu , Lu Ruilin , Wu Shuang , Feng Chengtian , Yuan Kun , Wang Zhenhui
Published: May 2024

The majority of the world’s natural rubber comes from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). As a key enzyme for synthesizing phenylpropanoid compounds, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) has a critical role in plant satisfactory growth and environmental adaptation. To clarify the characteristics of rubber tree PAL family genes, a genome-wide characterization of rubber tree PALs was conducted in this study. Eight PAL genes (HbPAL1-HbPAL8), which spread over chromosomes 3, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16, and 18, were found to be present in the genome of H. brasiliensis. Phylogenetic analysis classified HbPALs into groups I and II, and the group I HbPALs (HbPAL1-HbPAL6) displayed similar conserved motif compositions and gene architectures. Tissue expression patterns of HbPALs quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) proved that distinct HbPALs exhibited varying tissue expression patterns. The HbPAL promoters contained a plethora of cis-acting elements that responded to hormones and stress, and the qPCR analysis demonstrated that abiotic stressors like cold, drought, salt, and H2O2-induced oxidative stress, as well as hormones like salicylic acid, abscisic acid, ethylene, and methyl jasmonate, controlled the expression of HbPALs. The majority of HbPALs were also regulated by powdery mildew, anthracnose, and Corynespora leaf fall disease infection. In addition, HbPAL1, HbPAL4, and HbPAL7 were significantly up-regulated in the bark of tapping panel dryness rubber trees relative to that of healthy trees. Our results provide a thorough comprehension of the characteristics of HbPAL genes and set the groundwork for further investigation of the biological functions of HbPALs in rubber trees.
Seeds Priming with Melatonin Improves Root Hydraulic Conductivity of Wheat Varieties under Drought, Salinity, and Combined Stress
Authors: Fu Yuanyuan , Li Penghui , Si Zhuanyun , Ma Shoutian , Gao Yang
Published: May 2024

Drought and salinity stress reduce root hydraulic conductivity of plant seedlings, and melatonin application positively mitigates stress-induced damage. However, the underlying effect of melatonin priming on root hydraulic conductivity of seedlings under drought–salinity combined remains greatly unclear. In the current report, we investigated the influence of seeds of three wheat lines’ 12 h priming with 100 μM of melatonin on root hydraulic conductivity (Lpr) and relevant physiological indicators of seedlings under PEG, NaCl, and PEG + NaCl combined stress. A previous study found that the combined PEG and NaCl stress remarkably reduced the Lpr of three wheat varieties, and its value could not be detected. Melatonin priming mitigated the adverse effects of combined PEG + NaCl stress on Lpr of H4399, Y1212, and X19 to 0.0071 mL·h−1·MPa−1, 0.2477 mL·h−1·MPa−1, and 0.4444 mL·h−1·MPa−1, respectively, by modulating translation levels of aquaporin genes and contributed root elongation and seedlings growth. The root length of H4399, Y1212, and X19 was increased by 129.07%, 141.64%, and 497.58%, respectively, after seeds pre-treatment with melatonin under PEG + NaCl combined stress. Melatonin -priming appreciably regulated antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced accumulation of osmotic regulators, decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased K+ content in stems and root of H4399, Y1212, and X19 under PEG + NaCl stress. The path investigation displayed that seeds primed with melatonin altered the modification of the path relationship between Lpr and leaf area under stress. The present study suggested that melatonin priming was a strategy as regards the enhancement of root hydraulic conductivity under PEG, NaCl, and PEG + NaCl stress, which efficiently enhanced wheat resistant to drought–salinity stress.
Medical Support Vehicle Location and Deployment at Mass Casualty Incidents
Authors: Medina-Perez Miguel , Guzmán Giovanni , Saldana-Perez Magdalena , Legaria-Santiago Valeria Karina
Published: May 2024

Anticipating and planning for the urgent response to large-scale disasters is critical to increase the probability of survival at these events. These incidents present various challenges that complicate the response, such as unfavorable weather conditions, difficulties in accessing affected areas, and the geographical spread of the victims. Furthermore, local socioeconomic factors, such as inadequate prevention education, limited disaster resources, and insufficient coordination between public and private emergency services, can complicate these situations. In large-scale emergencies, multiple demand points (DPs) are generally observed, which requires efforts to coordinate the strategic allocation of human and material resources in different geographical areas. Therefore, the precise management of these resources based on the specific needs of each area becomes fundamental. To address these complexities, this paper proposes a methodology that models these scenarios as a multi-objective optimization problem, focusing on the location-allocation problem of resources in Mass Casualty Incidents (MCIs). The proposed case study is Mexico City in a earthquake post-disaster scenario, using voluntary geographic information, open government data, and historical data from the 19 September 2017 earthquake. It is assumed that the resources that require optimal location and allocation are ambulances, which focus on medical issues that affect the survival of victims. The designed solution involves the use of a metaheuristic optimization technique, along with a parameter tuning technique, to find configurations that perform at different instances of the problem, i.e., different hypothetical scenarios that can be used as a reference for future possible situations. Finally, the objective is to present the different solutions graphically, accompanied by relevant information to facilitate the decision-making process of the authorities responsible for the practical implementation of these solutions.
The Impact of Immersive Virtual Reality on Knowledge Acquisition and Adolescent Perceptions in Cultural Education
Authors: Christopoulos Athanasios , Styliou Maria , Ntalas Nikolaos , Stylios Chrysostomos
Published: May 2024

Understanding local history is fundamental to fostering a comprehensive global viewpoint. As technological advances shape our pedagogical tools, Virtual Reality (VR) stands out for its potential educational impact. Though its promise in educational settings is widely acknowledged, especially in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, there is a noticeable decrease in research exploring VR’s efficacy in arts. The present study examines the effects of VR-mediated interventions on cultural education. In greater detail, secondary school adolescents (N = 52) embarked on a journey into local history through an immersive 360° VR experience. As part of our research approach, we conducted pre- and post-intervention assessments to gauge participants’ grasp of the content and further distributed psychometric instruments to evaluate their reception of VR as an instructional approach. The analysis indicates that VR’s immersive elements enhance knowledge acquisition but the impact is modulated by the complexity of the subject matter. Additionally, the study reveals that a tailored, context-sensitive, instructional design is paramount for optimising learning outcomes and mitigating educational inequities. This work challenges the “one-size-fits-all” approach to educational VR, advocating for a more targeted instructional approach. Consequently, it emphasises the need for educators and VR developers to collaboratively tailor interventions that are both culturally and contextually relevant.
Detection of Ochyromera ligustri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Curculioninae) in Ligustrum spp. (Oleaceae) Using Newly Developed PCR Primers
Authors: Kang Ilgoo , Roda Amy , Misiaszek Brandi , Sparks Tanner , Diaz Rodrigo
Published: May 2024

Ligustrum spp. (Oleaceae) have become invasive species in the US and negatively affect native plant diversity and richness in forests. Ochyromera ligustri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is considered a potential biological control agent in the US because adults feed on the foliage and larvae are seed-feeders of Ligustrum spp. To discover the relationships between O. ligustri and Ligustrum spp., fruit dissections or rearing and field observations are required. In the current research project, novel PCR primers were developed to rapidly detect the DNA of O. ligustri in molecular analyses without rearing and observation. The developed PCR primers worked even with 0.01 ng of DNA and did not amplify the DNA of the other five curculionid species tested. When the novel primers were tested with three Ligustrum spp. species common in the southeastern US, the DNA of O. ligustri was detected from all three species. We expect that the novel primers will be utilized to find out the presence and impact of O. ligustri on Ligustrum spp rapidly and accurately.
Design and Performance of a Low-Energy Gamma-Ray Trigger System for HERD
Authors: Fariña Luis , Lathika Keerthana , Lucchetta Giulio , Yu Monong , Boix Joan , Cardiel-Sas Laia , Blanch Oscar , Martinez Manel , Rico Javier
Published: May 2024

The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility has been proposed as one of the main experiments on board the Chinese space station. HERD is scheduled to be installed around 2027 and to operate for at least 10 years. Its main scientific goals are the study of the cosmic ray spectrum and composition up to the PeV energy range, indirect dark matter detection, and all-sky gamma-ray observation above 100 MeV. HERD features a novel design in order to optimize its acceptance per weight, with a central 3D imaging calorimeter surrounded on top and on its four lateral sides by complementary subdetectors. A dedicated trigger, dubbed the ultra-low-energy gamma-ray (ULEG) trigger, is required to enable the detection of gamma rays down to ~100 MeV. The ULEG trigger design is based upon the search for energy deposition patterns on the tracker and the anticoincidence shield, compatible with the conversion of a gamma ray within the tracker volume and resulting in enough tracker hits to allow for a good-quality gamma-ray direction reconstruction. We describe the current status of the design of the ULEG trigger system. We also characterize its performance in detecting gamma rays as inferred from Monte Carlo studies.
Outcomes and Characteristics of Interdisciplinary Self-Management Interventions for Older Adults Living with Chronic Pain: Insights from a Scoping Review
Authors: Turcotte Samuel , Lapointe Marie-Ève , Shea Carolann , Rousseau Jacqueline , Masse Julie , Higgins Johanne , Rainville Pierre , Lussier David , Dubé François , Genest Catherine , Sarimanukoglu Kami , Agarrat Lucile , Varganici Maria , Filiatrault Johanne
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Up to 50% of community-dwelling older adults report living with some chronic pain that interferes with their daily functioning and leads to disabilities. Hence, it is crucial to provide these individuals with strategies to effectively manage pain. An interdisciplinary approach is warranted considering the numerous factors contributing to pain among older adults. Although several studies have been conducted on various interdisciplinary pain self-management programs, little effort has been made to synthesize knowledge about such programs for older adults. Objective: The objective of this review was to synthesize the characteristics and effects of interdisciplinary chronic pain self-management interventions targeting community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the steps recommended by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) and Levac et al. (2010). Keyword searches were performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Results: Sixty-six articles were included. Most interventions were based on a cognitive-behavioral group approach and used a combination of modalities, including education and training on the use of self-management strategies. The professionals most frequently involved in group interventions were psychologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Several benefits of these programs have been reported concerning pain intensity, independence in daily functioning, mental health, and quality of life. Conclusions: Interdisciplinary chronic pain self-management programs appear promising in guiding clinical and rehabilitation interventions for older adults living with chronic pain.
Is Steatotic Liver Disease Related to Poor Outcome in COVID-19-Hospitalized Patients?
Authors: Pozzobon Fernanda Manhães , Luiz Ronir Raggio , Parente Júlia Gomes , Guarilha Taísa Melo , Fontes Maria Paula Raymundo Cunha , de Mello Perez Renata , Chindamo Maria Chiara
Published: May 2024

Background: Steatotic liver disease (SLD) has been linked to more exacerbated inflammatory responses in various scenarios. The relationship between SLD and COVID-19 prognosis remains unclear. Our aim was to investigate the impact of SLD on the outcome of COVID-19. Methods: Patients hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 and who underwent laboratory tests and chest CT scans were included. SLD was assessed by measuring the attenuation coefficient on CT scans. The relationship between SLD, the severity of COVID-19 clinical presentation and in-hospital mortality were assessed. Results: A total of 610 patients were included (mean age 62 ± 16 years, 64% male). The prevalence of SLD was 30%, and the overall in-hospital mortality rate was 19%. Patients with SLD were younger (58 ± 13 vs. 64 ± 16 years, p < 0.001) and had a higher BMI (32 ± 5 vs. 28 ± 4 kg/m2, p = 0.014). Admission AST values were higher in patients with SLD (82 ± 339 vs. 50 ± 37, p = 0.02), while D-dimer (1112 ± 2147 vs. 1959 ± 8509, p = 0.07), C-reactive protein (12 ± 9 vs. 11 ± 8, p = 0.27), ALT (67 ± 163 vs. 47 ± 90, p = 0.11), ALP (83 ± 52 vs. 102 ± 125, p = 0.27), and GGT (123 ± 125 vs. 104 ± 146, p = 0.61) did not significantly differ compared to patients without SLD. No difference was observed regarding lung parenchyma involvement >50% (20% vs. 17%, p = 0.25), hospital length of stay (14 ± 19 vs. 16 ± 23 days, p = 0.20), hemodialysis support (14% vs. 16%, p = 0.57), use of mechanical ventilation (20% vs. 20%, p = 0.96), and in-hospital mortality (17% vs. 20%, p = 0.40) when comparing patients with and without SLD. Conclusions: SLD showed no significant association with morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19.