bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulation of NADPH oxidase 1 and 5 inhibits TPA-induced cell invasion via PKC/ROS-mediated MMP-9 activation in MCF-7 cells
Authors: Song Hyun-Kyung , Kim Jeong-Mi , Noh Eun-Mi , Lee Young-Rae
Published: August 2023

NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are a family of membrane proteins involved in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through transferring electrons across biological membranes. NOXs are activated by protein kinase C (PKC); however, the mechanism underlying NOX activation via PKC during breast cancer invasion remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that NOX1 and NOX5 play crucial roles in 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-9 expression and invasion of MCF-7 cells. In addition, we show that TPA-induced MMP-9 expression and cell invasion are mediated through PKC, linking the NOX1 and 5/ROS signaling pathways. The expression and activity of NOXs and MMP‑9 were investigated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. The activity of MMP‑9 was determined through zymography. Cell invasion was investigated using the Matrigel invasion assay. ROS levels were determined using a FACSCalibur flow cytometer. NOX inhibitors significantly attenuated TPA-induced MMP-9 expression and invasion in MCF-7 cells. NOX1 and NOX5 specific small interfering RNAs (siRNA) attenuated the TPA-induced MMP-9 expression and cell invasion. TPA-induced ROS levels were suppressed by the knockdown of NOX1 and NOX5. PKC inhibitors suppressed TPA-induced intracellular ROS levels, MMP-9 expression, and NOX activity in MCF-7 cells. Therefore, NOX1 and NOX5 play crucial roles in TPA-induced MMP-9 expression and invasion of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. In addition, TPA-induced MMP-9 expression and cell invasion are mediated through PKC, linking the NOX1 and 5/ROS signaling pathways. These findings provide new insights into the potential mechanisms underlying their anti-invasive effects in breast cancer.
Effect of Small and Large Energy Surpluses on Strength, Muscle, and Skinfold Thickness
Authors: Helms Eric R , Spence Alyssa-Joy , Sousa Colby , Krieger James , Taylor Steve , Oranchuk Dustin J , Dieter Brad P , Watkins Casey M
Published: August 2023

Background
A goal of many who perform resistance training (RT) is to increase muscle mass and strength. An energy surplus is commonly advised to support such gains; however, if too large, it could cause unwanted fat gain without augmenting adaptation. Thus, we randomized 21 trained lifters into maintenance energy (MAIN), 5% (MOD), and 15% (HIGH) energy surplus groups while performing RT 3d/wk for eight weeks to determine if skinfold thicknesses (ST), squat and bench one-repetition maximum (1-RM), or biceps brachii or quadriceps muscle thicknesses (MT) were influenced by group assignment. COVID-19 complications reduced our ability to recruit and retain participants, leaving 17 completers. Thus, in addition to Bayesian ANCOVA group comparisons, we regressed outcomes against body mass (BM) changes to analyze the relationship between BM gain, ST increases, and increase in 1-RM and MT. For all outcomes we reported Bayes Factors (BF10) indicating the odds ratio of the likelihood of one hypothesis relative to another (e.g., a BF10 = 2 indicates the hypothesis is twice as likely as another) and coefficients of determination (R2) for regressions.
Results
ANCOVAs provided no evidence in support of the group model for MT or squat 1-RM. However, there was moderate (BF10 = 9.9) and strong evidence (BF10 = 14.5) that MOD increased bench 1-RM more than HIGH and MAIN, respectively. Further, there was moderate evidence (BF10 = 4.2) MOD increased ST more than MAIN and weak evidence (BF10 = 2.4) HIGH increased ST more than MAIN. The regression provided strong evidence that BM changes predicted changes in ST (BF10 = 14.3, R2 = 0.49) and weak evidence that BM changes predicted changes in biceps MT (BF10 = 1.4, R2 = 0.24), but no evidence any other variable was predicted by BM changes.
Conclusions
While some group-based differences were found, our larger N regression provides the most generalizable evidence. Therefore, we conclude faster rates of BM gain (and by proxy larger surpluses) primarily increase rates of ST gain rather than augmenting 1-RM or MT. However, the biceps, the muscle group which received the greatest stimulus in this study, may have been positively impacted by greater BM gain, albeit slightly. Our findings are limited to the confines of this study, where a group of lifters with mixed training experience performed moderate volumes 3d/wk for eight weeks. Thus, future work is needed to evaluate the relationship between BM gains, increases in ST and RT adaptations in other contexts.
Reproduction of Detailed Forearm Rotation Dynamics Using Intensity- Based Biplane 2D-3D Registration Matching Method; Dynamic Analysis in Distal Radio-ulnar Joint
Authors: Shiode Ryoya , Miyamura Satoshi , Kazui Arisa , Yamamoto Natsuki , Miyake Tasuku , Iwahashi Toru , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Otake Yoshito , Sato Yoshinobu , Murase Tsuyoshi , Abe Shingo , Okada Seiji , Oka Kunihiro
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to reproduce and analyse the in vivo dynamic rotational motion of the forearm and to clarify the forearm motion involvement and anatomical function of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). We analysed the in vivo dynamic forearm rotational motion of the radius and the ulna, using a novel image-matching method for intensity-based biplane two-dimensional–three-dimensional (2D–3D) registration. This study included 20 upper limbs of 10 healthy volunteers. The average range of forearm rotation was 69.8 ± 14.8° for pronation and 80.8 ± 13.4° for supination. The radius was most proximal to the maximum pronation, moved distally toward the neutral position, and again proximally toward supination. The average axial translation of the radius during forearm rotation was 0.98 mm. Length changes of four virtual ligaments of TFCC, palmar and dorsal superficial radioulnar ligaments (PSL and DSL) and palmar and dorsal deep radioulnar ligaments (PDL and DDL), were investigated. We found that the PSL and DSL were most tensed in mid-rotation, PDL in pronation, and DDL in supination. The sequential tension of the four ligaments during the forearm rotation motion was found to contribute to the stability of the DRUJ over a wide range of motion. In conclusion, we describe a method for detailed evaluation of in vivo dynamic forearm motion and provide new insight on forearm kinematics and the DRUJ.
Attitudes toward the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship to mental state among Russian teachers, students and schoolchildren
Authors: Pavlova Anna , Liutsko Liudmila , Malykh Artem , Ismatullina Victoria , Marakshina Julia , Kolyasnikov Pavel , Tabueva Anna , Adamovich Timofey , Zakharov Ilia , Tikhomirova Tatiana , Lobaskova Marina , Symaniuk Elvira , Pecherkina Anna , Khusnutdinova Elza , Sitnikova Maria , Malykh Sergey
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on the mental state of teachers and students, who faced the necessity to teach and study online because of lockdown. The current study aimed to establish the association between attitudes toward the pandemic and the degree of stress, anxiety and depression among teachers and students. A total of 8051 participants constituted the sample. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess depression and anxiety, and the PSS was used to assess stress. Principal component analysis was implemented to derive latent variables reflecting various attitudes toward the pandemic, and multinomial logistic models were implemented to establish the association between attitudes toward the pandemic and the degree of anxiety, stress and depression. The majority of participants, regardless of their social group, reported low levels of anxiety and depression and medium levels of stress. Overall, worry about COVID-19 itself is negatively associated with anxiety, stress and depression, whereas worry about the side effects of the pandemic has a positive association with those constructs. Additionally, social group moderates the relationship: specifically for teachers, the association between worry about COVID-19 and anxiety and depression tended to be positive. The theoretical explanation and practical implication of the findings are discussed.
Complete Melting of the Moon Inferred from Hafnium Isotope Measurements
Authors: Borg Lars , Gaffney Amy
Published: August 2023

Investigations of lunar rocks demonstrate that the primordial crust and mantle of planetary bodies form through solidification of a magmatic layer, known as a magma ocean. However, the depths of planetary magma oceans are poorly constrained despite the fact that this information would provide critical constrains on the initial conditions under which planetary bodies form and evolve, as well as the geologic significance of measurements made on surficial materials. Here we use Hf and Nd isotopes measured on lunar basaltic rocks to demonstrate that the lunar magma ocean likely encompassed the entire Moon. Complete melting of the Moon implies planetary bodies are unlikely to preserve primitive unprocessed material in their interiors, that chemical equilibrium between planetary cores and mantles is probable, that samples collected on planetary surfaces can record primordial global-scale processes, and that heat associated with accretion is likely responsible for formation of magma oceans. These results have implications for the origin and evolution of all four terrestrial planets as well as all large geologically processed asteroids.
Assessing the Propagation of Traffic Noise and Its Impact on High- rise Apartment Buildings Adjacent to an Urban Expressway: A Case Study in Chengdu, China
Authors: Yu Heng , Li Ailing
Published: August 2023

With rapid urbanization, traffic growth has accelerated in specific Chinese cities. Due to strict urban construction land policies, many high-rise apartment buildings have been constructed near expressways. The substantial traffic volume generates significant noise pollution, negatively affecting the residents of these high-rise buildings. To gain a comprehensive understanding of how expressway traffic noise impacts the living environment of adjacent high-rise apartments, thorough field investigations and analyses have been conducted. Professional noise measuring instruments, such as the DT-8852 Sound Level Meter, were employed to assess noise levels on different floors and at various times. The propagation pattern of traffic noise was analyzed based on the measured data, taking into account factors that could influence noise propagation, such as time periods, building floors, and horizontal distance. According to the results of a questionnaire survey, approximately 64% of respondents perceive the impact of traffic noise as high or very high. Moreover, 37% and 19% of respondents believe that traffic noise significantly affects their sleep quality and mood, respectively. These survey findings indicate that traffic noise has a significant impact on the residential experience of the studied buildings. The field investigation of noise reveals that the daytime average noise LAeq on the 9th to 28th floors ranges from 61 to 67 dB on weekdays and 57 to 66 dB on weekends, which is higher compared to other floors. Meanwhile, the daytime average noise LAeq on the 4th to 8th floors during weekdays and weekends ranges from 55 to 63 dB and 52 to 63 dB, respectively. These test results suggest that the 4th to 8th floors experience less impact, while the 9th to 28th floors are more affected by the traffic noise induced by Jian-Nan Avenue. The field investigation results for horizontal noise measuring points indicate that the distance between the building and the avenue edge should be at least 42.4m (51.18m) if an indoor noise LAeq (Lmax) of less than 45 dB is desired. This finding highlights the importance of appropriate distance to mitigate the effects of traffic noise on indoor environments.
Synthesis of Novel Plant-Derived Encapsulated Radiolabeled Compounds for the Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease and the Evaluation of Biological Effects with In Vitro/In Vivo Methods
Authors: Uygur Emre , Karatay Kadriye Büşra , Derviş Emine , Evren Vedat , Kılçar Ayfer Yurt , Güldü Özge Kozguş , Tekin Volkan , Müftüler Fazilet Zümrüt Biber
Published: August 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder with a substantial impact on a significant number of individuals worldwide. Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in specific brain regions, namely the Substantia Nigra pars compacta (SNc) and striatum. The diagnosis of PD is utilized neuroimaging techniques, such as Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), Positron emission tomography (PET), and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which aid in the identification and evaluation of pathological changes associated with the disease. In this study, the focus was on developing technetium-99m ([99mTc]Tc) radiolabeled drug delivery systems using plant-derived compounds for the diagnosis of PD. Madecassoside (MA), a plant-derived compound, was conjugated with Levodopa (L-DOPA) to form MA-L-DOPA, which was then encapsulated using PLGA to create MA-PLGA and MA-L-DOPA-PLGA nanocapsules. Extensive structural analysis was performed using various methods such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), thin layer chromatography (TLC), High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to characterize the synthesized products. Radiochemical yields of 99mTc]Tc-MA, [99mTc]Tc-L-DOPA, [99mTc]Tc-MA-L-DOPA, [99mTc]Tc-MA-PLGA and [99mTc]Tc-MA-L-DOPA-PLGA were determined using thin layer radiochromatography (TLRC) and High-performance liquid radiochromatography (HPLRC) methods. In vitro cell culture studies were conducted on Human neuroblastoma (SY-SH5Y) and rat pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cell lines to assess the incorporation of radiolabeled compounds and the cytotoxicity of inactive compounds. Additionally, biodistribution studies were carried out on healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats and a Parkinson's disease experimental model to evaluate the compounds' bioactivity using [99mTc]Tc radiolabeled compounds. Overall, the results indicate that radiolabeled plant-derived encapsulated drug delivery systems with [99mTc]Tc hold potential as diagnostic agents for PD symptoms. This study contributes to the advancement of drug delivery agents in the field of brain research.
Relationship between proteinuria and changes in antepartum and postpartum choroidal thickness in patients with pre-eclampsia
Authors: Lee You Hyun , Kim Do Yeon , Bae Jin Gon , Kim Yu Cheol
Published: August 2023

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder characterised by systemic vascular resistance and endothelial dysfunction. It is known to influence choroidal thickness (CT). No previous studies have explored the antepartum and postpartum changes in CT with respect to the protein-creatinine ratio (PCR), a measure of proteinuria that is a clinical hallmark of PE. This study evaluated the correlations between antepartum and postpartum CT and the PCR in patients with PE. In this retrospective study, sixty-six eyes (66 patients) were analysed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the median PCR value (2.36 mg/mg): group 1 (< 2.36 mg/mg) and group 2 (≥ 2.36 mg/mg). Ophthalmologic clinical data were collected and assessed. We observed higher antepartum CT and higher mean arterial pressure in group 2 than in group 1. Moreover, postpartum CT decreased significantly in group 2. In the multivariate analysis, CT changes were correlated with antepartum CT and PCR after logarithm transformation. In conclusion, a greater decrease in CT was observed in group 2 than in group 1. Further, the PCR showed a correlation with the extent of CT reduction.
Causal association between frailty and arthritis: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Yan Yunbo , He Furong , Zhao Hairong , Yang Haiyan
Published: August 2023

Background
Epidemiological data suggest close associations between frailty and osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, whether these associations are causal is unclear. We therefore conducted a bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (MR) study to assess the causal relationship between frailty and OA and RA.
Methods
We extracted the summary genome-wide association statistics data of individuals of European ancestry for FI (N = 175266), OA (826690), and RA (58284). The two-sample MR analysis was primarily conducted using the inverse variance weighting method (IVW), followed by heterogeneity testing and sensitivity analysis.
Results
Genetically determined FI was significantly associated with an increased risk of all OA [odds ratio (OR) = 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.21 to 1.78, P < 0.001] and knee OA [OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.30 to 2.45, P < 0.001] but was not associated with hip OA [OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.97 to 1.59, P = 0.092] and RA [OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.73 to 1.66, P = 0.635]. In the reverse direction analysis, genetically determined all OA [beta = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.29, P < 0.001], hip OA [beta = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.05, P = 0.002], knee OA [beta = 0.10, 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.14, P < 0.001], and RA [beta = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.04, P < 0.001] showed significant associations with an increased risk of FI. The results were stable across sensitivity and validation analyses.
Conclusion
Our results indicate that frailty increases the risk of both all OA and knee OA but not hip OA and RA. In the reverse MR study, both OA and RA increased the risk of FI.
Healthcare Providers’ Satisfaction and associated factors with clinical laboratory service at government hospitals in Southwest Shewa Zone Oromia, Ethiopia: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Asaye Sintayehu , Alemu Getachew , Gebre Dejene , Teshager Lule , Yadesa Girma
Published: August 2023

Background: Healthcare providers are vital clients of the clinical laboratory. Problems in laboratory services have a significant impact on healthcare providers' diagnosis, intervention, or prevention strategies during patient healthcare. Healthcare providers’ satisfaction wasn’t assessed in the study area. So, the study aimed to evaluate their satisfaction, which helps improve laboratory services and serves as a prerequisite for accreditation.
The study aims to assess healthcare providers’ satisfaction associated factors with laboratory services among all government hospitals in the southwest Shewa zone, Oromia, Central Ethiopia 2022.
Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted on 314 healthcare providers from June to July 2022. Healthcare providers who met the eligibility criteria and volunteers were included. Before being exported to SPSS version 25, the data were coded and entered into Epi Data version 3.1 for completeness checks. After descriptive statistics were performed, variables were subjected to bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify associated variables, and variables with a p. value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Finally, the results were shown in the text and table.
Results:According to the study, 54 % of healthcare providers were satisfied with laboratory services. The assistance of the lab. Handbook (AOR=1.676, 95% CI=1.002, 2.801), notification of the change in services (AOR=1.735, 95% CI=1.029, 2.925), getting urgent test results in time (AOR=2.349, 95% CI=1.39, 3.68), courtesy of lab. Staff (AOR=1.924, 95% CI=1.115, 3.321), reliable/quality of lab. result (AOR=3.69, 95% CI= 2.083, 6.538), and consistency of laboratory quality services (AOR=1.706, 95% CI=1.012, 2.875) were factors significantly related to satisfaction.
Conclusion: About half of the healthcare providers were dissatisfied with laboratory services. Therefore, to increase the satisfaction of healthcare providers’ hospital administrative and laboratory staff, they should work together on the identified factors. In order to determine overall clients’ satisfaction with laboratory services, an assessment of patient satisfaction will be required
Changes in mineral density and fluoridated apatite formation of artificial root caries using fluoridated toothpastes with or without bioactive glass
Authors: Chen Haoran , Zhang Jiaxin , Hill Robert , Baysan Aylin
Published: August 2023

Objectives To explore the potential mineral exchange and fluoridated apatite formation within the artificial root carious lesions (ARCLs) subsurface using different toothpastes either containing 5,000ppm-F, 1,450ppm-F or bioactive glass (BG) with 540ppm-F.Material and Methods The crowns of three extracted sound teeth were removed. Subsequently, roots were divided into four parts (n = 12). Each sample was randomly allocated into one of four groups: Group-1(Deionised water); Group-2(BG with 540ppm-F); Group-3(1,450ppm-F) and Group-4(5,000ppm-F). ARCLs were developed using demineralisation solution (pH4.8). The 13-day pH-cycling for samples included demineralisation solution (6hrs) and remineralisation solution (pH7) for 16hrs. Standard tooth brushing twice a day with an assigned toothpaste was carried out during pH-cycling. XMT was performed for each sample at baseline, following ARCLs and after 13-day pH-cycling. Samples were then analysed using SEM/EDX and 19F-MAS-NMR.Results XMT showed an increase in mineral contents in the ARCL areas for each toothpaste group after 13-day pH-cycling, however there was mineral loss in subsurface for all groups. SEM showed the occlusion of dentinal tubules on the root surfaces in all toothpaste groups. 19F-MAS-NMR confirmed the partial/full fluoridated apatite formation in all groups, interestingly the presence of more fluorapatite was evident in the Groups-3 and 4.Conclusion All toothpastes were potentially effective to increase mineral density on surface while mineral loss in subsurface. The 5,000ppm-F toothpaste had a superior effect with respect to mineral density increase by promoting fluorapatite formation in comparison to the BG with 540ppm-F and 1,450ppm-F groups.Clinical Relevance: Toothpaste containing BG with 540ppm-F, 5000ppm-F and 1450ppm-F toothpastes are likely to manage root caries.
Identification of key genes and immune profile in rheumatoid arthritis by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yang Minliang , Chen Zhiwei , Zhang Haowei
Published: August 2023

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by immune disorders contributing to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to identify key biomarkers and immune-related pathways implicated in the progression of RA, as well as investigate the relationship between these biomarkers and immune cell infiltration in RA.
Methods: Gene microarray data from the GEO database were utilized. Key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with RA were identified through differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Functional enrichment analyses, including GO, KEGG, and GSEA, were performed on the key DEGs. Hub gene markers were determined using LASSO regression of the key DEGs. Single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) was employed to analyze the infiltration levels of 28 types of immune cells in the expression profile and their relationship with hub gene markers. Additionally, the diagnostic accuracy of the hub markers for RA was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.
Results: A total of 2596 differential genes were identified, and 28 co-expression modules were obtained through WGCNA, with the green module showing the highest correlation with RA. By combining the differential genes, 496 intersecting genes were obtained. LASSO analysis yielded six hub genes (AIM2, ANKRD12, CXCL10, NCOA6, PPP3CA, and SRPR) as potential biomarkers for RA. The analysis of immune infiltration revealed significant relationships among activated B cells, activated CD4+ T cells, activated CD8+ T cells, and effector memory CD4+ T cells. ROC curve analysis demonstrated the excellent diagnostic value of the six hub genes. Functional enrichment analysis of the differential genes revealed their predominant enrichment in immune- and inflammation-related pathways.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the six hub genes (AIM2, ANKRD12, CXCL10, NCOA6, PPP3CA, and SRPR) may play a role in the progression of RA through immune-related signal pathways. B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, monocytes, and dendritic cells appear to be closely associated with the pathogenesis of RA.
Variations in actual evapotranspiration and their influence on the seasonal drought in China's Southeastern River basin
Authors: Hong Sheng , Zheng Zhouyao , Deng Yu , Chen Xingwei , Gao Lu , Chen Ying , Liu Meibing , Deng Haijun
Published: August 2023

Revealing changes in actual evapotranspiration and their influencing factors is essential to understand regional extreme hydrological events (e.g., droughts). This study utilized the Global Land Evaporation Amsterdam Model (GLEAM) to analyze the spatial and temporal characteristics of actual evapotranspiration over a 40-year period in the Southeast River basin of China. Then it quantified the relationship between changes in actual evapotranspiration and the drought index. Results indicated a significant increase in actual evapotranspiration in the Southeast River basin over the past 40 years (2.51 mm/yr, p < 0.01). From the perspective of actual evapotranspiration components, it was dominated by vegetation transpiration (73.45%) and canopy interception (18.26%). The actual evapotranspiration was closely related to the NDVI (r = 0.78, p < 0.01), and vegetation changes could explain 10.66% of the increase of actual evapotranspiration in the Southeast River basin since 2000. Meanwhile, actual evapotranspiration and SPEI index showed a highly significant negative spatial correlation with a Moran's I index of -0.513. The rise in actual evapotranspiration is an important reason for the frequent seasonal droughts in the region, for example, in 2003 and 2011. Therefore, these results help deepen the understanding of hydro-climatic process changes in the southeast coastal area of China.
Based on virtual screening and simulation exploring the mechanism of plant-derived compounds with PINK1 to Postherpetic Neuralgia
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Feng Yi , Zhang Bo , Zhang Jiquan , Liu Minchen
Published: August 2023

Recent studies have found that PINK1 mutation can mediate the dysfunction of mitochondrial autophagy in dopaminergic neurons; In order to reveal the role of PINK1 in the pathogenesis of PHN and find new targets for PHN treatment. Purpose: Herein, we have employed a rigorous literature review pipeline to enlist 2801compounds from more than 200 plants from the Asian region. The virtual screening procedure helps us to shortlist the total compounds into 20 based on their better binding energy. Moreover, the Prime MM-GBSA procedure screened the compound data-set further, where Vitexin, Luteoloside, and 2'-Deoxyadenosine-5'-monophosphate had a score of (−59.439, −52.421 and − 47.544) kcal/mol, respectively. Finally, the immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were conducted to verify the effective mechanism. The results of Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the first two compounds had notable therapeutic effects on PHN mice, while compound 3 had no significant therapeutic effect. Meanwhile, the TEM result indicated that Vitexin showed the most significant microstructural adjustment on mitochondria. We concluded that Vitexin could alleviate PHN by regulating mitochondrial autophagy through PINK1. In this study, we observed the level of autophagy of mitochondria and the expression of PINK1 in dorsal horn neurons of PHN.
Study on automatic determination method of roundness and sphericity of proppant and its influence on fracture conductivity
Authors: Wang Junting , Xu Dongjin , Xiong Qi , Tao Zhenqiang , Qu Yanying , Wu Yingsong
Published: August 2023

The performance of fracturing proppant is very important for reservoir hydraulic fracturing design, roundness and sphericity is an important index to evaluate the performance of proppant. The higher the average roundness-sphericity of the proppant, the stronger the anti-crushing ability, and the better the fracture support effect in the formation, the greater the conductivity and the better the reservoir reconstruction effect. The traditional manual visual method is subjective and inefficient; in this paper, a new method of calculating roundness and sphericity by using image processing technology combined with particle corner mean curvature radius-multiple linear regression is proposed. Compared with the traditional manual visual method, the maximum error of the measurement results is only 5%. The samples used in the study of the effect of proppant roundness and sphericity on fracture conductivity were screened by the new method. In the process of simulating the field fracturing construction scheme, it is found that the low roundness and sphericity caused by proppant breakage in the fracture will lead to the decrease of the gap between the particles to hinder the oil and gas flow and reduce the fracture conductivity. The proppant with high roundness and sphericity can effectively reduce the breakage rate of the proppant squeezed by the formation closure pressure in the fracture. At the same time, At the same time, few scholars have studied the relationship between roundness and sphericity on crushing rate and fracture conductivity. The experimental results provide a basis for field fracturing design proppant optimization, maintaining fracture conductivity and increasing production.
Large deflection analysis of circular piezoelectric micro-actuator with flexoelectric effect
Authors: Ji Xue
Published: August 2023

At micro/nano scale, the stiffening effect and flexoelectric effect of strain gradient play important roles in the electromechanical coupling response of piezoelectric micro-components. In this paper, the large deflection bending problem of circular piezoelectric micro-actuator is studied based on the extended linear dielectric theory. In addition to the piezoelectric effect, the coupling of strain gradient to strain gradient is included to consider the stiffening effect, the coupling of strain gradient to polarization is considered to reflect the direct flexoelectric effect, the coupling of polarization gradient to strain is used to describe the inverse flexoelectric effect, and the coupling of polarization gradient to polarization gradient is introduced to capture the high-order electric field effect. A size-dependent model of circular piezoelectric micro-actuator is established to investigate the electromechanical coupling response of piezoelectric micro-actuator based on the variational principle. The contributions of piezoelectric effect and flexoelectric effect on large deflection behaviors of piezoelectric micro-actuator are revealed. It is hoped that the research results will be helpful to further understand the electromechanical coupling properties of piezoelectric micro-components and improve the control precision of piezoelectric micro-actuator.
Clinical Outcomes of En-Bloc Cervical Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Meral Mehmet
Published: August 2023

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is one of the most serious complications of cervical spondylosis. The pattern, timing and outcomes of surgical treatment are controversial. Hirabayashi's hardware-assisted open-door laminoplasty method is currently frequently used in the surgical treatment of CSM. This study analyzed the preoperative and postoperative outcomes of 32 patients who underwent en-bloc cervical laminoplasty for CSM. The effect of preop symptom duration on postop clinical outcomes and the clinical outcomes of the surgical technique applied were evaluated. Modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) score and Nurick scale were used for preop and postop functional and neurologic evaluation. The mean age of the patients was 66.34 years. Twenty-one patients were male (65.6%) and 11 were female (34.4%) and the mean follow-up period was 34.75 months. 7 of 8 patients with mJOA scores of 15 and above had complete recovery and one had partial benefit. Of the 10 patients with mJOA scores between 12 and 15, 7 had improved above 15 points and 3 had showed partial improvement. Of the 14 patients with a score below 12, 10 had improved to the 12–15 range, while 3 had remained unchanged. The deterioration had observed in one patient. It was found that low mJOA score, high Nurick grade and long preoperative symptom duration negatively affected the surgical treatment results.
Prediction of Subsolid Pulmonary Nodule Growth Rate Using Radiomics
Authors: Ma Zong jing , Ma Zhuang Xuan , Sun Ying , Li De Chun , Jin Liang , Gao Pan , Li Cheng , Li Ming
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND Pulmonary nodule growth rate assessment is critical in the management of subsolid pulmonary nodules (SSNs) during clinical follow-up. The present study aimed to develop a model to predict the growth rate of SSNs.METHODS A total of 273 growing SSNs with clinical information and 857 computed tomography (CT) scans were retrospectively analyzed. The images were randomly divided into training and validation sets. All images were categorized into fast-growth (volume doubling time (VDT) ≤ 400 days) and slow-growth (VDT > 400 days) groups. Models for predicting the growth rate of SSNs were developed using radiomics and clinical features. The models’ performance was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC) values for the receiver operating characteristic curve.RESULTS The fast- and slow-growth groups included 108 and 749 scans, respectively, and 10 radiomics features and three radiographic features (nodule density, presence of spiculation, and presence of vascular changes) were selected to predict the growth rate of SSNs. The nomogram integrating radiomics and radiographic features (AUC = 0.928 and AUC = 0.905, respectively) performed better than the radiographic (AUC = 0.668 and AUC = 0.689, respectively) and radiomics (AUC = 0.888 and AUC = 0.816, respectively) models alone in both the training and validation sets.CONCLUSION The nomogram model developed by combining radiomics with radiographic features can predict the growth rate of SSNs more accurately than traditional radiographic models. It can also optimize clinical treatment decisions for patients with SSNs and improve their long-term management.
Role of microparticles on the filamentous bulking of activated sludge
Authors: Wei Su , Huang Ziyang , Ni Yongjiong , Pan Zengrui , Feng Hongbo , Cheng Xiaoyu , Huang Zuchao , Liao Hanglei , Li Jun
Published: August 2023

With the cancellation of primary sedimentation tanks, a large number of particles have entered the biochemical treatment units of wastewater treatment plants. Based on the more common problem of filamentous bulking in wastewater treatment plants, the paper investigates the effect of particles on activated sludge filamentous bulking, using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microparticles as test particles. The results showed that the particles could significantly reduce the number of filamentous bacteria in activated sludge, and had a significant effect on its growth morphology. The role of 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm particles on filamentous bacteria was more obvious than that of 0.1 mm particles, and 0.1 mm particles were easily adsorbed by activated sludge and became biofilm carriers. Its improvement in the settling ability of filamentous expanded activated sludge is more significant than that of particles with 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm. The addition of 0.1 mm PET particles to the Anaerobic-Anoxic-Oxic (AAO) reactor promoted the coalescence of loose bacterial agglomerates under the combined effects of hydraulic shear, impact, friction, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) adhesion, which had a positive role on the settling properties of the activated sludge. The test abundance of particles in activated sludge at 4000 particles/L had no significant effect on the removal of COD and total phosphorus, but the removal of ammonia nitrogen decreased by 5–7%, showing some inhibition of nitrification; the sludge volume index (SVI) decreased from 358 mg/L to 198 mg/L, which had a significant control on filamentous bulking.
The association of education gap among spouses and health-related quality of life: a population-based retrospective study
Authors: Cao Ruoyun , Yan Chaoyang
Published: August 2023

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between marital education gap and the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of husband and wife, and further examine the differences in this relationship at different levels of HRQOL
Methods
Firstly, univariate analysis was used to preliminarily examine the distribution differences of various variables in HRQOL. Secondly, linear regression was applied to analyze the relationship between marital education gap and the HRQOL of husband and wife. Finally, quantile regression was utilized to examine the differences of this relationship at different levels of HRQOL.
Results
Overall, the education gap between spouses has a positive impact on the HRQOL of both husband and wife, but special attention should also be paid to the situation where the wife's health level is much higher than that of the husband, which has no significant impact on the HRQOL of both husband and wife. The study also found that the improvement effect of education gap is mainly reflected in the lower level of HRQOL.
Conclusions
Research provides new insights into improving HRQOL from the perspective of educational disparities. Some measures can be further taken to enhance this positive impact. It is also important to pay attention to the adverse effects on each other when the wife's education level is much higher than that of the husband.
Mutant-based QTL mapping reveals key factors related to the agronomic traits and isoflavone contents of soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Kim Jung Min , Seo Ji Su , Lee Jeong Woo , Lyu Jae Il , Ryu Jaihyunk , Eom Seok-Hyun , Ha Bo-Keun , Kwon Soon-Jae
Published: August 2023

Background Soybean is a valuable source of edible protein and oil as well as secondary metabolites that can be used in food products, cosmetics, and medicines. However, because the soybean isoflavone content is a quantitative trait influenced by internal/external factors, its genetic basis remains unclear.
Results This study was conducted to identify causal quantitative trait loci (QTLs). A mutant-based F2 population (190 individuals) was constructed by crossing the Korean cultivar ‘Hwangguem’ with low isoflavone contents (1,558 µg g−1) and the soybean mutant DB-088 with high isoflavone contents (6,393 µg g−1). A linkage map (3,049 cM) with an average chromosome length of 152 cM was constructed using the 180K AXIOM® SoyaSNP array. Thirteen QTLs related to agronomic traits were mapped to chromosomes 2, 3, 11, 13, 19, and 20, whereas 29 QTLs associated with isoflavone contents were mapped to chromosomes 1, 3, 8, 11, 14, 15, and 17. Notably, the Gm11_9877690–Gm11_9955924 interval on the chromosome 11 was revealed to contribute to high isoflavone contents with 11.9%–20.1% of the phenotypic variation. This interval included four candidate genes, encoding β-glucosidases 13, 14, 17-1, and 17-2. We confirmed obvious differences in the expression levels of these genes according to seed developmental stages. Whole candidate genes within causal QTLs were then assessed by enriched GO terms, KEGG pathways, and co-expression network analysis. A correlation analysis indicated certain agronomic traits (e.g., DF, DM, and PH) are positively correlated with isoflavone contents.
Conclusions Alleles of soybean mutant ‘DB-088’ contributed to agronomic traits and isoflavone contents. The major interval of Gm11_9877690 – Gm11_9955924 took up 78 kb on chromosome 11, including four β-glucosidases. Thus, mutant alleles may be useful for the marker-assisted selection of soybean lines with high isoflavone contents and superior agronomic traits.
Classification of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Bannigidad Parashuram , Potraj Namita , Udoshi Jalaja , Gurubasavaraj Prabhuodeyara
Published: August 2023

For decades classification of objects based on texture has portrayed a prominent role in the applications of computer vision and image processing. The need for automated classification of objects sharing similar visual appearance is growing day by day in various industries like metal, paper, wood, etc. The initial task of any metal devising industry is to classify the metals before they are used in building any devices. For ages, traditional approaches are used to identify the metals using their properties which is time-consuming and not economical. In the proposed study an automated model for texture analysis and classification of the metal and metal oxide nanoparticles is developed using machine learning and deep learning concepts to overcome the drawbacks of the traditional approach. The machine learning model uses KNN and PNN classifiers, and the deep learning model uses LeNet, and ConvXGB classifiers to analyze the texture and classify them as metals (silver, boron) and metal oxides (iron oxide, copper oxide). From the experiment it is found that the average accuracy using the KNN classifier is 70.00%, the PNN classifier is 75.00%, LeNet is 95.00%, and ConvXGB yields 85.00%. It is analyzed that the LeNet has the highest accuracy of 95%, and hence, it is suitable for the classification of silver, boron, iron oxide, and copper oxide nanoparticle images.
Radioactive nanosized colloids and indocyanine green identify the same sentinel lymph nodes in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hingsammer Lukas , Schönegg Daphne , Gander Thomas , Lanzer Martin
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Near-infrared fluorescence imaging using indocyanine green (ICG) combined with radioactive markers has the potential to improve sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study aimed to evaluate the ability of 99mTc and ICG in identifying the sentinel lymph nodes in patients with early-stage OSCC.
Methods
Data were collected prospectively, and a retrospective analysis of 15 patients with early stage OSCC and a cN0 neck was performed. All patients received peritumoral injection of 99mTc the day before surgery and ICG was administered intraoperatively. Intentionally, the application of the two different tracers were done by two different physicians with varying degrees of experience. The number of identified lymph nodes positive for 99mTc and ICG, the overlap or possible discrepancies of both methods and the time until fluorescence signals of ICG were detected, were noted.
Results
In all patients, a 100% agreement in sentinel lymph node identification was achieved, regardless of both the exact location of the peritumoral injection and the experience of the injecting surgeon. Time until ICG accumulation in the sentinel lymph node was consistently found to be between 1 and 3 minutes.
Conclusion
ICG constitutes a viable and useful addition to 99mTc for intraoperative sentinel lymph node detection in this study.
Elevated external temperature affects cell ultrastructure and heat shock proteins (HSPs) in Paramacrobiotus experimentalis Kaczmarek, Mioduchowska, Poprawa, & Roszkowska, 2020
Authors: Kayastha Pushpalata , Wieczorkiewicz Filip , Pujol Myriam , Robinson Alison , Michalak Marek , Kaczmarek Łukasz , Poprawa Izabela
Published: August 2023

Increasing temperature influences the habitats of various organisms, including microscopic invertebrates. To gain insight into temperature-dependent changes in tardigrades, we isolated storage cells exposed to various temperatures and conducted biochemical and ultrastructural analysis in active and tun-state Paramacrobiotus experimentalisKaczmarek, Mioduchowska, Poprawa, & Roszkowska, 2020. The abundance of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and ultrastructure of the storage cells were examined at different temperatures (20 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C, 37 °C, 40 °C, and 42 °C) in storage cells isolated from active specimens of Paramacrobiotus experimentalis Kaczmarek, Mioduchowska, Poprawa, & Roszkowska, 2020. In the active animals, upon increase in external temperature, we observed an increase in the levels of HSPs (HSP27, HSP60, and HSP70). Furthermore, the number of ultrastructural changes in storage cells increased with increasing temperature. Cellular organelles, such as mitochondria and the rough endoplasmic reticulum, gradually degenerated. At 42 °C, cell death occurred by necrosis. Apart from the higher electron density of the karyoplasm and the accumulation of electron-dense material in some mitochondria (at 42 °C), almost no changes were observed in the ultrastructure of tun storage cells exposed to different temperatures. We concluded that desiccated (tun-state), but not active, tardigrades are resistant to high temperatures.
Presence of potentially novel Helicobacter pylori-like organisms in gastric samples from cats and dogs
Authors: Taillieu Emily , De Bruyckere Sofie , Steenkiste Christophe Van , Chiers Koen , Haesebrouck Freddy
Published: August 2023

Currently, seven gastric non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter (NHPH) species are known to commonly colonize the stomach of cats and dogs, with a low pathogenic significance. Reports of H. pylori and H. pylori-like organisms infecting animals have occasionally been made. In this study, samples were collected from the corpus and antrum of 20 cats and 27 dogs. A Helicobacter genus-specific 16S rRNA PCR assay, H. pylori-specific ureAB and glmM PCR assays and a nested PCR detecting 23S rRNA in a Helicobacter genus-specific manner in the first step and a H. pylori-specific manner in the second step were performed, in combination with sequencing. Histopathological and anti-Helicobacter immunohistochemical evaluations were also performed. Based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis, 39/47 animals (83%) appeared infected with canine/feline gastric NHPHs in the corpus and/or antrum. H. pylori-specific ureAB amplicons were obtained in samples of 22 stomachs (47%). One canine antrum sample positive in the ureAB assay was also positive in the H. pylori-specific glmM assay. While 36/47 (77%) animals had a positive sample in the first step of the nested 23S rRNA PCR assay, all samples were negative in the final step. Sequence analysis of obtained amplicons and immunohistochemistry point towards the presence of unidentified H. pylori-like organisms in cats and dogs. Histopathological examination suggests a low pathogenic significance of the gastric Helicobacter spp. present in these animals. In conclusion, cats and dogs may be (co-)infected with gastric Helicobacter organisms other than the known gastric NHPHs. Culture and isolation should be performed to confirm this hypothesis.