bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogen lifestyle determines host genetic signature of quantitative disease resistance loci in oilseed rape (Brassica napus)
Authors: Jacott Catherine Nancy , Schoonbeek Henk-jan , Sidhu Gurpinder Singh , Steuernagel Burkhard , Kirby Rachel , Zheng Xiaorong , von Tiederman Andreas , Macioszek Violetta K , Kononowicz Andrzej K , Fell Heather , Fitt Bruce DL , Mitrousia Georgia K , Stotz Henrik U , Ridout Christopher J , Wells Rachel
Published: December 2023

Crops are affected by several pathogens, but these are rarely studied in parallel to identify common and unique genetic factors controlling diseases. Broad-spectrum quantitative disease resistance (QDR) is desirable for crop breeding as it confers resistance to several pathogen species. Here, we use associative transcriptomics (AT) to identify candidate gene loci associated with Brassica napus QDR to four contrasting fungal pathogens: Alternaria brassicicola, Botrytis cinerea, Pyrenopeziza brassicae, and Verticillium longisporum. We did not identify any shared loci associated with broad-spectrum QDR to fungal pathogens with contrasting lifestyles. Instead, we observed QDR dependent on the lifestyle of the pathogen—hemibiotrophic and necrotrophic pathogens had distinct QDR responses and associated loci, including some loci associated with early immunity. Furthermore, we identify a genomic deletion associated with resistance to V. longisporum and potentially broad-spectrum QDR. This is the first time AT has been used for several pathosystems simultaneously to identify host genetic loci involved in broad-spectrum QDR. We highlight candidate loci for broad-spectrum QDR with no antagonistic effects on susceptibility to the other pathogens studies as candidates for crop breeding. In conclusion, this study represents an advancement in our understanding of broad-spectrum (QDR) in B. napus and is a significant resource for the scientific community.
Nrf2 activation rescues stress-induced depression-like behaviour and inflammatory responses in male but not female rats
Authors: McCallum Ryan , Theriault Rachel-Karson , Manduca Joshua , Russell Isaac , Culmer Angel , Doost Janan Shoja , Martino Tami , Perreault Melissa
Published: December 2023

Background
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a recurring affective disorder that is two times more prevalent in females than males. Evidence supports immune system dysfunction as a major contributing factor to MDD, notably in a sexually dimorphic manner. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a regulator of antioxidant signaling during inflammation, is dysregulated in many chronic inflammatory disorders, however its role in depression and the associated sex differences have yet to be explored. Here we investigated the sex-specific antidepressant and immunomodulatory effects of the potent Nrf2 activator dimethyl fumarate (DMF), as well as the associated gene expression profiles.
Methods
Male and female rats were treated with vehicle or DMF (25 mg/kg) while subjected to 8 weeks of chronic unpredictable stress. The effect of DMF treatment on stress-induced depression- and anxiety-like behaviours, as well as deficits in recognition and spatial learning and memory were then assessed. Sex differences in hippocampal (HIP) microglial activation and gene expression response were also evaluated.
Results
DMF treatment during stress exposure had antidepressant effects in male but not female rats, with no anxiolytic effects in either sex. Recognition learning and memory and spatial learning and memory were impaired in chronically stressed males and females, respectively, and DMF treatment rescued these deficits. DMF treatment also prevented stress-induced HIP microglial activation in males. Conversely, females displayed no HIP microglial activation associated with stress exposure. Lastly, chronic stress elicited sex-specific alterations in HIP gene expression, many of which were normalized in animals treated with DMF. Of note, most of the differentially expressed genes in males normalized by DMF were related to antioxidant, inflammatory or immune responses.
Conclusions
Collectively, these findings support a greater role of immune processes in males than females in a rodent model of depression. This suggests that pharmacotherapies that target Nrf2 have the potential to be an effective sex-specific treatment for depression.
Fascin-1 re-expression promotes cell metastasis through epithelial-mesenchymal transition in canine mammary tumour CHMm cell
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhou Ye , Haseeb Abdul , Li Hongquan , Zheng Xiaozhong , Guo Jianhua , Cheng Xiaoliang , Yin Wei , Sun Na , Sun Panpan , Zhang Zhenbiao , Yang Huizhen , Fan Kuohai
Published: December 2023

Background
Canine mammary tumour (CMT) is the most common tumour disease in female dogs. At the same time, the popular concept of preferring purebred dogs when choosing pets has affected the incidence of mammary tumours in dogs. In this study, we obtained a metastatic key protein, Fascin-1, by comparing the proteomics data of in situ tumour and metastatic cell lines from the same individual. However, the role of Fascin-1 in CMT cell line is still unclear.
Results
To investigated the effects and mechanism of re-expression Fascin-1 on the migration, adhesion and invasion using the CMT cell line CHMm in vitro. Firstly, the proteomics and Western blot methods were used to analyse the differential expression of Fascin-1 between CMT cell line CHMm and CHMp. The CHMm cells isolated from CMT abdominal metastases barely express Fascin-1. Then, the Fascin-1 re-expression cell line CHMm-OE was established using Lentivirus transduction. The CHMm-OE cells could enhance the abilities of cell migration, adhesion, and invasion, promote the formation of lamellipodia, and affect the protein expression related to metastasis and EMT proteins that proteomic points out. Finally, the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in CHMm and CHMm-OE cells were identified through proteomics, which involved the positive regulation of cell adhesion, epithelial cell differentiation, extracellular matrix, focal adhesion, dioxygenase activity, and cytoskeleton protein binding. Reactive oxygen species, IL-17, VEGF, and HIF-1 signalling pathway along with Fascin-1 might be involved in cell metastasis.
Conclusions
However, the Fascin-1 re-expressed could promote cell EMT and increase the formation of lamellipodia, resulting in the enhancement of CHMm cell migration, adhesion and invasion in vitro. This may be beneficial to improve the welfare of female dogs and improve the prognosis of CMT.
Social media can predict the COVID-19 epidemic in China
Authors: Liu Shengyu , Ma Mingtao , Li Zhi , Zhong Shiyu , Wang Yudong , Cui Jing , Yang Zhe , Bao Yijun , Shi Xin
Published: December 2023

Background：To investigate whether social media data can predict the prevalence of the COVID-19 epidemic and to compare the differences between the information on COVID-19 reflected in social media and the officially published information.
Methods：The Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 related data from Microblog (Sina Weibo) from November 30 to December 31，2022 were collected using a Weibo crawler with a total of 598,285 entries. Text clustering, spatio-temporal analysis and sentiment analysis were used to explore hot topics of public interest and describe COVID-19 related information in China.
Result：The COVID-19 outbreak in China in December 2022 can be divided into four phases, with peak symptoms occurring from December 13 to December 28 and peak symptom frequency on December 15. Shanghai was less concerned with COVID-19 information, while Beijing was the first province to experience a peak in fever symptoms. Guangdong, the first province to have a liberalized outbreak, had a later peak of fever, and Sichuan had the most discussion about fever symptoms. It is thought that the infection spread from the central and western provinces and some northern provinces to surrounding areas. In late December, national concern about respiratory symptoms decreased, instead, discussion of ear, nose, and throat and systemic symptoms increased. The general emotion of the population was positive.
Conclusion：Social media can predict the COVID-19 epidemic in China. The peak of COVID-19 symptoms in China in December 2022 was on December 15, one week before the peak of the officially confirmed data.
Impact of land use change on carbon emissions in the rapidly urbanizing Nanjing: Past trajectories and future projections
Authors: Wu Jiahui , li kongqing
Published: December 2023

Land-use carbon emissions are the second largest source of emissions after energy combustion, and since cities are the primary source and aggregator of emissions, studies related to land-use carbon emissions in urban areas are crucial to understanding the impact of human activities on regional sustainable development. Taking Nanjing as an example, this paper analyzes the carbon emissions under different land use types in Nanjing from 2010 to 2020 based on four remote sensing image data periods in 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2020, using ArcGIS software combined with the land use transfer matrix. Meanwhile, to predict the impact of land use changes on carbon emissions in Nanjing, IDRISI software was borrowed to simulate the land use in 2030–2040, and relevant estimation methods were adopted to predict the carbon emissions from land use. The analysis results show that the net carbon emissions in Nanjing are on a rising trend year by year, in which the contribution of construction land to carbon emissions is the largest and shows a continuous growth trend. The prediction results show that the growth rate of carbon emissions in Nanjing will slow down and become smaller in 2030–2040, indicating that the national management of carbon emissions from urban land use is gradually increasing.
Glucose uptake in trophoblasts of GDM mice is regulated by the AMPK-CLUT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Xiao Zhenghua , liu Xue , Luan Xiaojin , Duan Ran , Peng Wei , Tong Chao , Qiao Juan , Qi Hongbo
Published: December 2023

Introduction: GDM as a metabolic disease during pregnancy, regulates GLUT3 translocation by AMPK, thereby affecting glucose uptake in trophoblasts. It provides a new research idea and therapeutic target for alleviating intrauterine hyperglycemia in GDM.
Methods: STZ was used to construct GDM mice, inject AICAR into pregnant mice, and observe fetal and placental weight; flow cytometry was employed for the detection of glucose uptake by primary trophoblast cells; immunofluorescence was applied to detect the localization of GLUT3 and AMPK in placental tissue; Cocofal microscope was used to detect the localization of GLUT3 in trophoblast cells;qRT-PCR and Western blot experiments were carried out to detect the expression levels of GLUT3 and AMPK in placental tissue; CO-IP was utilized to detect the interaction of GLUT3 and AMPK.
Results: Compared with the normal pregnancy group, the weight of the fetus and placenta of GDM mice increased (P<0.001), and the ability of trophoblasts to take up glucose decreased (P<0.001).In addition, AMPK activity in trophoblasts and membrane localization of GLUT3 in GDM mice were down-regulated compared with normal pregnant mice (P<0.05). There is an interaction between GLUT3 and AMPK. Activating AMPK in trophoblasts can up-regulate the expression of GLUT3 membrane protein in trophoblasts of mice (P<0.05) and increase the glucose uptake of trophoblasts (P<0.05).
Discussion: Inhibition of AMPK activity in GDM mice results in aberrant localization of GLUT3, which in turn attenuates glucose uptake by placental trophoblast cells.AICAR activates AMPK to increase the membrane localization of GLUT3 and improve the glucose uptake capacity of trophoblasts.
Comparison of HyperArc, IMRT, and VMAT plans for Graves’ ophthalmopathy radiotherapy
Authors: Zhu Xiaopeng , Zhang Zhe , Peng Feng , Liu Yajie
Published: December 2023

Objective
To compare the dosimetric parameters of three different radiotherapy techniques, HyperArc (HA), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), for patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO), and to provide guidance for the clinical choice of radiotherapy methods for GO.
Materials and Methods
Eight patients with GO were enrolled in this study. HA, IMRT, and VMAT plans were generated for each patient. The dosimetric parameters of the target and the organs at risk (OARs) were compared and analyzed among the three plans.
Results
Compared with VMAT and IMRT plans, the HA plan had a higher conformity index (CI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and homogeneity index (HI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.042; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012), a lower gradient index (GI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and a lower dose to the optic chiasm (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and the brainstem maximum dose (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.025; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.017). The dose to lenses and the brain were similar to those in VMAT and IMRT plans (p > 0.05). The dose to the eyeballs slightly increased (left eye: HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.036; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012. Right eye: HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012). The machine unit (MU) of the HA plan is the lowest among the three plans.
Conclusion
For radiotherapy of GO, HA, IMRT, and VMAT are all feasible techniques. Compared with IMRT and VMAT, HA has better target coverage and conformity, homogeneity, and dose gradient, as well as better sparing of critical OARs, while saving treatment time. HA can be considered as the preferred technique for radiotherapy of GO.
Bioaccumulation Potentials, Growth Attributes, Stress Enzymes Determination, and Proximate Content of Zea Mays (L.) Walp. Grown in Copper Nanoparticles-Amended Soil
Authors: Akanbi-Gada Mariam A. , Saliu Abiola O. , Iyanda Yusuf A. , Olaoye Abdulrazaq A.
Published: December 2023

Copper is a nutrient required in small quantity by maize during growth, but it is not readily available to maize. Nanotechnology may however be helpful in the effective delivery of this nutrient. This study investigates the impact of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on growth attributes, stress enzymes, and the bioaccumulation potential of maize grown on CuNPs amended soils. The research was conducted in a screenhouse located at Kwara State University, Malete with the following coordinates (latitude 80 43' '' 8 and longitude 40 29' 11"). The Experiment was a Randomized Block Design experiment (RBD) with four seeds of maize planted separately in 2 kg of sandy loam soil pre-treated with 4, 8 and 12 mg/kg CuNPs while the control was the pots without CuNPs and these were replicated thrice making a total of 12 pots. Chlorophyll content, enzymatic antioxidants, bioaccumulation potential and proximate contents were determined following standard methods. Data obtained from the experiment were subjected to one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) while its mean value were analyzed with Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at P≤0.05. Bar chart was drawn using Origin Scientific Graphing and analysis software. CuNPs greatly enhanced plant growth, productivity, chlorophyll content, stress enzymes: [(Malondialdehyde (MDA), Catalase (CAT), Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD)] and bioaccumulation. This study concludes that at high concentrations, application of CuNPs on maize can hinder or arrest its growth and productivity as well as the death of the entire plants despite the fact that it is a micronutrient.
Optimizing Carbon Stock Estimation in Tree Vegetation through PRISMA Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Data and Machine Learning Approach: A Case Study in Mount Merbabu National Park
Authors: Melati Pegi , Danoedoro Projo , Arief Rahmat , Arjasakusuma Sanjiwana
Published: December 2023

The forest ecosystem's pivotal role in the carbon cycle and its impact on the global carbon balance underscore the significance of understanding and mitigating factors that contribute to carbon emissions. This study employs a combination of hyperspectral remote sensing (PRISMA) and machine learning techniques (Random Forest) to estimate the carbon stock of tree vegetation. Recognizing the necessity for variable optimization, the research focuses on identifying the most optimal variables from PRISMA hyperspectral imagery to model tree vegetation carbon stock. Additionally, the study evaluates the accuracy of the model by employing two variable selection methods: Stepwise Regression and Boruta. The research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of tree vegetation carbon dynamics by conducting estimation and mapping in Mount Merbabu National Park. Results indicate that the Random Forest-Boruta model consistently outperforms the Random Forest-Stepwise model, demonstrating superior accuracy and precision. Specifically, Random Forest-Boruta I (α = 0.01) exhibits a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 2.25 ton/pixel, a normalized RMSE (nRMSE) of 22.77%, a Standard Error of Estimate (SEE) of 2.6 ton/pixel, maximum accuracy at 65.52%, and a Bias of 0.23. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and environmental stakeholders, offering a robust framework for managing and preserving forest ecosystems as part of global climate change mitigation strategies.
A Fair Individualized Polysocial Risk Score for Identifying Increased Social Risk in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bian Jiang , Huang Yu , Guo Jingchuan , Donahoo William , Fan Zhengkang , Lu Ying , Chen Wei-Han , Tang Huilin , Bilello Lori , Saguil Aaron , Rosenberg Eric , Shenkman Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Background: Racial and ethnic minority groups and individuals facing social disadvantages, which often stem from their social determinants of health (SDoH), bear a disproportionate burden of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its complications. It is crucial to implement effective social risk management strategies at the point of care.
Objective: To develop an electronic health records (EHR)-based machine learning (ML) analytical pipeline to address unmet social needs associated with hospitalization risk in patients with T2D.
Methods: We identified real-world patients with T2D from the EHR data from University of Florida (UF) Health Integrated Data Repository (IDR), incorporating both contextual SDoH (e.g., neighborhood deprivation) and individual-level SDoH (e.g., housing instability). The 2015-2020 data were used for training and validation and 2021-2022 data for independent testing. We developed a machine learning analytic pipeline, namely individualized polysocial risk score (iPsRS), to identify high social risk associated with hospitalizations in T2D patients, along with explainable AI (XAI) and fairness optimization.
Results: The study cohort included 10,192 real-world patients with T2D, with a mean age of 59 years and 58% female. Of the cohort, 50% were non-Hispanic White, 39% were non-Hispanic Black, 6% were Hispanic, and 5% were other races/ethnicities. Our iPsRS, including both contextual and individual-level SDoH as input factors, achieved a C statistic of 0.72 in predicting 1-year hospitalization after fairness optimization across racial and ethnic groups. The iPsRS showed excellent utility for capturing individuals at high hospitalization risk because of SDoH, that is, the actual 1-year hospitalization rate in the top 5% of iPsRS was 28.1%, ~13 times as high as the bottom decile (2.2% for 1-year hospitalization rate).
Conclusion: Our ML pipeline iPsRS can fairly and accurately screen for patients who have increased social risk leading to hospitalization in real word patients with T2D.
Research on improving the method of mental health intelligence evaluation of college students under decision tree
Authors: Liu Xiao-ying , liu Xiao-ying
Published: December 2023

Based on the behavior characteristics of college students, the evaluation of mental health status is mainly based on the characteristics of a single dimension, which makes the evaluation results more error. Therefore, a method of College Students' mental health evaluation based on improved decision tree is proposed. Construct and improve the decision tree structure, establish the evaluation index system including learning pressure, employment pressure and communication pressure, and construct the evaluation model of mental health status according to the established system; According to the evaluation factor set, comment set, fuzzy subset of weight and membership degree, the mental health status is evaluated, and the feature dimension of mental state perception data is constructed. According to the implementation steps of fuzzy integration evaluation method, the results of College Students' mental health evaluation are obtained. The experimental results show that the main factors affecting the mental health status of college students are employment pressure and academic pressure. This method can effectively reflect the mental health status of college students, which is consistent with the actual mental health status evaluation results.
Physico-chemical characterisation of selective TiO2 layer on kaolin-based ceramic membranes
Authors: Kyrii Svitlana , Misevych Anna , Romaniuk Oleh , Tereshkov Mykhail , Ivzhenko Hlib , Kwapinski Witold , Dontsova Tetiana
Published: December 2023

The selective layer in a ceramic membrane is crucial for separation and filtration processes, as it endows the membrane with specific properties and functions, determining its selectivity and suitability for various applications. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the type of composition used to create a selective layer on low-cost clay ceramic membranes and to determine their physicochemical properties and permeability. In this study, a ceramic membrane substrate based on kaolin was synthesized and characterized using XRD, thermal analysis, and IR spectroscopy, and its mechanical properties were also tested. Selective layers on the ceramic membrane were synthesized with various compositions using spin-coating. They were characterized using IR spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance absorption spectrum, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images of all samples show a dense structure typical of clay materials. These images indicate that the composition and number of layers have minimal impact on the morphology in this case. The obtained ceramic membranes are characterized by a pore size ranging from 50 – 200 μm. The permeability of the ceramic membrane support is 40 cm3/min·cm2, which decreases with the application of selective layers. Selectivity by turbidity increases from 32% to 66.4%.
An unconventional retrograde approach for self-expanding metallic stent delivery in oesophagus cancer palliation
Authors: Conceição Daniel , Simões Carolina , Francisco Fátima , Claro Isabel
Published: December 2023

Partially Covered Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) are the main recommendation for palliative treatment of malignant dysphagia. Delivering self-expanding metallic stents in stenosing oesophagus neoplasia’s are often challenging due to the difficulty on passing a guide wire through the tumour. We describe a case in which the guidewire was only able to franchise the tumour retrogradely, after entering the gastric cavity through the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy orifice using an ultra slim scope.
Examining the Effect of Foot Reflexology on Anxiety and Physiological Indices in Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy: ARandomized Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Safdari Ali , Barasteh Salman , Dolatshahi Sahar , Farahani Zahra Borzabadi
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Patients preparing for extracorporeal Shock Wave lithotripsy (ESWL) often experience anxiety, which may affect the procedure's success. While foot reflexology has proven effective in reducing anxiety and stabilizing physiological indicators during various medical procedures, its impact on anxiety during lithotripsy remains unclear. This study aims to investigate foot reflexology's influence on anxiety and physiological indicators in patients undergoing ESWL.
Methods: In this randomized clinical trial conducted at Sina Hospital in Arak City, Central Iran in 2023. 70 patients eligible for extracorporeal lithotripsy were randomly allocated into either an intervention or a control group. The study employed the Spielberger questionnaire to measure patients' anxiety levels and used a blood pressure monitor and pulse oximeter to assess physiological indicators. Participants in the intervention group received 10 minutes of foot reflexology. The research focused on evaluating outcomes including anxiety and some physiological parameters, including heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and arterial blood oxygen saturation (SPO2). These assessments were conducted at three different times; before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and just before the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) procedure in both groups. This is a clinical trial study with code IRCT20190729044370N2 registered on 2022-06-18.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical and demographic information of patients between the two groups, before the study (p > 0.05). The findings of this study revealed a significant difference in patient anxiety levels after intervention (p<0.05). The data analysis also indicated a meaningful difference in heart rate and diastolic blood pressure in patients immediately before the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) (p<0.05). However, this difference was not significant for systolic blood pressure and arterial blood oxygen saturation percentage (p>0.05). Based on the results of the two-way repeated measures analysis of variance, the effect of acupressure with respect to time and group was not significant on any of the physiological indices studied (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the use of reflexology techniques positively influences the reduction of anxiety in patients undergoing extracorporeal lithotripsy. However, its effect on the physiological indices of patients requires further evidence-based research. Based on these findings, it is suggested that reflexology be used as a simple, easy, and effective method for managing patient anxiety during this procedure.
Seismic behaviour and design of a tall mixed steel-reinforced concrete structure supporting an oil refinery reactor
Authors: Radaiou Smaragdi , Skalomenos Konstantinos , Papagiannopoulos George
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the seismic behaviour of a special mixed steel-reinforced concrete structure that supports an oil refinery reactor. The structure is 64.90 m tall and consists of three parts: (a) a concrete frame basement; (b) a steel braced frame that supports the oil reactor and (c) the steel reactor itself. A three-dimensional model of the structure is created to perform static non-linear (pushover) analyses in order to obtain the capacity curves and understand the overall inelastic behavior of the structure. The results of the pushover analysis reveal that the structure exhibits similar inelastic behavior in both horizontal directions and satisfy the capacity design principles. The structure shows limited ductility considering the fact that has been designed with a behavior factor of q = 1.5 and primary damages are expected mainly in concrete members. Subsequently, dynamic non-linear time-history (NLTH) analyses are performed utilizing the three translational components of three seismic motions recorded during past earthquakes. These results involve: i) the maximum values for displacements, accelerations and base shears; ii) the maximum stresses at critical points of the oil refining reactor and iii) the formation of plastic hinges at columns, beams and braces of the structure. Opposite to the pushover analysis, NLTH analyses revealed that strong ground motions can lead to the development of plastic hinges that do not follow the desirable failure pattern and is likely to be related to the absence of adequate ductility-based design requirements. In case of a significant seismic event, accelerations and displacements observed are expected to cause failure of the piping and mechanical equipment, while local failures at high-stress areas of the oil reactor is possible. Localized strengthening might be necessary to avoid repair works and downtime after strong seismic events.
Bioinformatics analysis reveals link between alternative complement cascade pathway and colorectal cancer liver metastasis
Authors: Shi Chang-Yu , Li Yong , Wei Rui-Q , Deng Jing , Zou Qin-Ling , Yang Si-Qi , Piao Chunmei , Jin Ming
Published: December 2023

Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high incidence mortality rate and is characterized by liver metastasis, which is the main cause of CRC patient death. In this study, a transcriptome sequencing dataset (GSE81558) from the integrated Gene Expression Omnibus database was evaluated to gain new insights into the pathogenesis of CRC and potential therapeutic targets.
Methods
All raw data were processed using R and screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using LIMMA software. In-depth Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted and visualized using R and Cytoscape software. Protein‒protein interactions (PPIs) associated with the DEGs were assessed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database. A mouse model of CRC liver metastasis of CRC was used to verify key associated signaling pathways.
Results
The GO biological processes (BPs) and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that DEGs between the normal colon and CRC samples were mainly involved in the cell cycle and the P53 signaling pathway, which regulate the cell cycle and alter tumor signaling pathways. The 10 hub genes identified by PPI were cell cycle-related. In CRC versus and CRC liver metastasis samples, the GO BPs were mainly associated with platelets and coagulation, and the KEGG pathways were mainly enriched in the complement and coagulation cascades and drug metabolism. The PPI hub genes were blood protein-related, such as ALB, AHSG, and APOH, or plasma protease inhibitors, such as SERPINC1. To confirm bioinformatics analysis results, we used wild-type (WT), C4 (an important molecule in the classical and lectin complement cascade pathways), and complement factor B (fB, an important molecule in the alternative complement cascade pathway) knockout (KO) mice to construct a CRC liver metastasis model. Compared with WT mice, fB-KO mice demonstrated significantly reduced liver metastasis and inflammation, while there was no difference in C4-KO mice.
Conclusion
Bioinformatics analyses revealed that the complement cascade is related to CRC liver metastasis and that the cell cycle is related to CRC. The role of the alternative complement pathway in CRC liver metastasis was confirmed in mice, indicating that this pathway is a potential therapeutic target in CRC liver metastasis and providing a theoretical basis for further research.
Picroside II alleviated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway.
Authors: Zhao Lilei , Chen Xinhua , Li Zheng , Wei Yunfei , Shen Bingyu , Wang Qi , Cheng Jiaqi , Feng Haihua
Published: December 2023

Background
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of liver injury and increases the risk for other diseases, particularly with the rising rates of obesity. Picroside has been utilized as a traditional Chinese medicine for liver protection for thousands of years, and Picroside II is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation effects.
Methods
We used C57BL/6 mice to establish the tyloxapol-induced NAFLD model and employed oleic acid (OA) and palmitic acid (PA) for the cell model. Fat concentration and activation of the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway were assessed through staining, biochemical assays, and protein expression analysis.
Results
Treatment with Picroside II reduced fat concentration and activated the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway. In the mouse model, Picroside II protected the liver from excessive fat accumulation and also reduced blood lipid levels. Furthermore, Picroside II enhanced the body's antioxidant capacity.
Conclusion
Picroside II exhibits protective effects against NAFLD by reducing fat accumulation through the activation of the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway, making it a potential candidate for drug development.
Navigating the Daydreamscape: An In-Depth Exploration of Maladaptive Daydreaming, Coping Strategies, and Mental Well-Being
Authors: Moment Lauren Denise
Published: December 2023

Maladaptive daydreaming, characterized by immersive and disruptive daydreaming experiences, has become a focal point in psychological research due to its potential impact on mental health. This study explores the intricate relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and coping skills, utilizing well-established measures like the COPE inventory and the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. The COPE inventory assesses coping strategies, while the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale quantifies maladaptive daydreaming severity. The review investigates how coping skills mediate the association between maladaptive daydreaming and mental health challenges. The study, conducted with 386 participants, presents a comprehensive analysis of coping styles, demographic factors, and their connections to maladaptive daydreaming. Findings reveal significant yet nuanced relationships, shedding light on potential interventions and support systems for individuals grappling with maladaptive daydreaming tendencies.
Cities as actors in the EU policy towards China
Authors: Kamiński Tomasz , Ciesielska-Klikowska Joanna , Gzik Michał
Published: December 2023

City diplomacy between EU and Chinese cities has become an increasingly significant layer of bilateral relations. The collaboration between cities is extensive and covers a wide range of thematic areas, with around half of the European cities having partnerships with Chinese counterparts, according to a survey of 745 cities. However, despite the commonality of these partnerships, our research has highlighted a disconnection between subnational relations and the upper levels of European policy. Despite some previous initiatives, local actors have not been effectively engaged in the EU policy-making. The European Parliament has called for greater coordination with sub-state actors, but this call has gone unanswered. The paper unpacks the city level of EU relations with China, showing its scope, patterns of cooperation, and potential impact. The authors present theoretical and empirical arguments to support the notion that city diplomacy should have a much more significant impact on EU policy towards China.
Clinical Characteristics, Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients with Acute Heart Failure at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Solela Gashaw , Seid Yimer
Published: December 2023

Background: Acute heart failure (HF) is a rapid onset of new or worsening of symptoms and signs of heart failure (HF). Despite the increasing burden of HF in developing countries like Ethiopia, there is a paucity of comprehensive data with respect to clinical characteristics, treatment patterns and outcomes of acute HF.
Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns and outcomes of hospitalized patients with acute heart failure at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a year period between July 1, 2022 and July 1, 2023.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of 303 acute HF patients who were admitted to the medical wards and intensive care unit of Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College from July 1, 2022 to July 1, 2023. Pretested data abstraction format was used for data collection and SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns and in-hospital outcomes of acute HF. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the associated factors of in-hospital mortality. Odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to show the strength of association.
Results: Of 303 patients, 51.5% were females and the median age was 56.7 years. The most frequent symptom and sign were dyspnea (98.7%) and peripheral edema (79%), respectively. The commonest underlying cause and precipitating factor of acute HF were cor pulmonale (22.8%) and pneumonia (35.3%), respectively. The commonest anti-remodeling medications prescribed at the time of discharge were beta blockers (47.7%) followed by MRAs (42.8%) and ACE inhibitors/ARBs (38.6%) and the least prescribed were SGLT2 inhibitors (8.3%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 8.6% and the median length of hospital stay was 9 days. Based on the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the most important predictors of in-hospital mortality were systolic blood pressure (SBP) <120mmHg [(AOR) = 6.88; 95% CI: 1.84, 25.82; P value = 0.004], chloride level <96mg/dL [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) =5.23; 95% CI: 1.37, 20.07; P value = 0.016], blood urea nitrogen (BUN) >20mg/dl [AOR =5.28; 95% CI 1.36, 20.53; P value = 0.017] and presence of dyslipidemia [AOR = 4.28, 95% CI: 1.25, 14.64, P value = 0.020].
Conclusions: This study has shown that systolic blood pressure (SBP) <120mmHg, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) >20mg/dL, chloride (Cl–) level <96mg/dL and presence of dyslipidemia were the most important predictor variables of in-hospital mortality for patients with acute HF. Hence, health care providers need to stratify patients with acute HF at admission based on their risk of in-hospital mortality and deal with those potential bad prognostic indicators.
Integrated multi-omics analysis and machine learning based on O_linked_glycosylation genes refine molecular subtypes and prognosis for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Hongxu , Gao Jie , Li Minghao , Hu Bowen , Wang Zhihui , Guo Wenzhi , Zhang Yi , Zhang ShuiJun
Published: December 2023

O-glycosylation exerts significant influence on cellular physiological processes and disease regulation by modulating the structure, function, and stability of proteins. However, there is still a lack of research focusing on O-glycosylation in relation to the prognosis of HCC patients. Here we explored expression and function of O-glycosylation gene in HCC from both bulk and single-cell perspectives. The multi-omics data associated with O-glycosylation, identified through the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), combined with ten distinct clustering algorithms to define the molecular subgroups of HCC. CS1 was characterized by significant genomic variation, moderate immune cell infiltration and immune function enrichment. CS2 performed a better prognosis, and was featured by stable genomic structure, an immune-hot phenotype with rich immune cell infiltration and sensitive to immunotherapy. CS3 was characterized by a poor prognosis, outstanding genomic instability, an immune-cold phenotype, but can benefit more from treatment with drugs such as sorafenib, cisplatin, paclitaxel, and gemcitabine. Ultimately, we re-emphasized O-glycosylation genes in individual HCC patients, deploying 59 types of machine learning to construct and evaluate the prognostic signature. The microarray results indicated a pronounced upregulation of Oglycosylation hub genes involved in HCC stratification and modeling within HCC tumorous tissues. In conclusion, we have highlighted the significant impacts of O-glycosylation on HCC by redefining the subtypes of HCC as well as constructing the CMLS. This research has established an optimized decision-making platform that enables precise stratification of HCC patients, refines tumor treatment plans, and predicts patient survivability holding broad clinical implications.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of NLRP12 Gene and Association with Psoriasis
Authors: Li Jiawei , Hui Yun , Gao Yingjun , Kong Qingtao , Liu Haibo , Sang Hong , Liu Fang
Published: December 2023

Background
NLRP12 has been authenticated as an important negative regulator in multiple metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Psoriasis is an important inflammatory disease and often suffer from comorbidities such as inflammatory bowel disease, obese, etc. However, the role of NLRP12 in psoriasis remains unexplored.
Methods
SNP mutation sites of NLRP12 gene were screened in psoriasis and control groups, followed by genotyping and correlation analysis. The expression of NLRP12 gene and protein in blood and tissue samples of psoriasis patients were determined by Quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunohistochemistry and Western Blot.
Results
We found a significant increase in the mutation frequency of NLRP12 rs12460528 co-dominant model, particularly in the dominant model. The dominant model GG + GA of NLRP12 rs12460528 exhibited an OR value of 4.167 (1.847–9.402). Furthermore, the qPCR results a significant upregulation of NLRP12 mRNA expression in psoriatic lesions and peripheral blood. The expression of NLRP12 protein was observed to be significantly elevated in psoriatic tissue by immunohistochemistry and Western Blot.
Conclusions
The results indicated SNP rs12460528 is a potential locus related to NLRP12 in psoriasis. And allele G had a protective effect on psoriasis. NLRP12 was significantly associated with psoriasis and may play a positively regulating role in psoriasis.
Nail-patella syndrome with nephropathy in a de novo LMX1B mutation: Triangular lunula of the thumb and lack of finger creases as clues
Authors: Banno Yoshinori , Ikemiyagi Masako , Hamada Riku , Nozu Kandai , Matsuoka Kentaro , Kamimaki Isamu
Published: December 2023

Nail-patella syndrome (NPS) is an autosomal dominant disease caused mostly by mutations in the LMX1B gene and is characterized by hypoplastic nails, hypoplastic patella, elbow deformities, glaucoma, and nephropathy, sometimes leading to kidney failure. The combination and the severity of symptoms vary greatly from patient to patient. Because a kidney biopsy may show nonspecific findings, patients with nephropathy alone may not be diagnosed without undergoing genetic testing. We examined the case of a 6-year-old girl with persistent high proteinuria who was not diagnosed by kidney biopsy but had a diagnosis of a de novo mutation in the LMX1B gene following genetic testing. Retrospectively, only the thumbs showed triangular lunulae, while the third and fourth fingers lacked skin creases over the distal interphalangeal joints, which is subtle but characteristic of NPS. Notifying pediatric nephrologists of these findings can help avoid unnecessary kidney biopsies and lead to early detection of the disease.
The Effects of Short-Chain Fatty Acid-Butyrate Supplementation on the Expression of Circadian-Clock Genes and Sleep Quality in Patients with Active Ulcerative Colitis: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Firoozi Donya , Masoumi Seyed Jalil , Asl Seyed Mohammad Kazem Hosseini , Labbe Aurélie , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Razeghian-Jahromi Iman , Dara Mahintaj , Fararouei Mohammad
Published: December 2023

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that administering short-chain fatty acids-butyrate could be effective in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly in the regulation of circadian-clock genes, an area of focus in the etiology of IBD. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of sodium butyrate supplementation on the expression of circadian-clock genes, inflammation, sleep and life quality in active ulcerative colitis (UC) patients.
Methods: In the current randomized controlled trial, 36 active UC patients were randomly divided to receive sodium butyrate (600 mg/kg) or placebo for 12-weeks. Before enrolling the first participant, the study received ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (reference number: IR.SUMS.SCHEANUT.REC.1400.037) in October 2021, it was registered on IRCT.ir with the registration number IRCT20211214053401N1 on January 1st, 2022. We assessed the expression of circadian clock genes (CRY1, CRY2, PER1, PER2, BMAl1 and CLOCK) by real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in blood as well as faecal calprotectin and serum level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method (ELIZA). Moreover, the sleep quality and IBD quality of life (QoL) were assessed by Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and inflammatory bowel disease questionnaire-9 (IBDQ-9) respectively before and after the intervention.
Results: The results showed that butyrate supplementation in comparison with placebo significantly upregulated the fold change expression of CRY1 (2.22 (1.59) vs. 0.63 (0.49), p-value < 0.001), CRY2 (2.15 (1.26) vs. 0.93 (0.80), p-value= 0.001), PER1 (1.86 (1.77) vs. 0.65 (0.48), p-value= 0.005), BMAL1 (1.85 (0.97) vs. 0.86 (0.63), p-value= 0.003) and decreased the level of calprotectin (-133.82 (155.62) vs. 51.58 (95.57), p-value <0.001) and hs-CRP (-0.36 (-1.57, -0.05) vs. 0.48 (-0.09-4.77), p-value <0.001). Also, butyrate caused an improvement in the sleep quality (PSQI score: -2.94 (3.50) vs. 1.16 (3.61), p-value <0.001) and QoL (IBDQ-9: 17.00 (11.36) vs. -3.50 (6.87), p-value <0.001).
Conclusion: Butyrate may be an effective adjunct treatment for active UC patients.
A cannabidiol (CBD) oral lipid-based nanoemulsion induces anxiolytic- and panicolytic-like effects and increases delta-FosB immunoreactivity in serotonergic cells of the dorsal raphe lateral wings
Authors: Rosário Bárbara A. , de Lima Maria P. , Vieira Márcio G. , Aquino Pedro E. A. de , Viana Glauce S.B. , Silveira Edilberto R. , de Brito Débora H. A. , Zampieri Dávila , Lemes Jéssica A. , Nazaré Maria F.S. , Ribeiro Daniel A. , Viana Milena de Barros
Published: December 2023

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid of Cannabis sativa which seems to hold benefit for anxiety-related disorders. The present study aimed to evaluate the possible anxiolytic- and panicolytic-like effects of an oral lipid-based CBD nanoemulsion in animal models.
Methods: Male Wistar rats were orally treated for 21 consecutive days with CBD (2.5 and 5 mg/kg, 1 mL/kg PO) or vehicle (1 mL/kg) and on the 21st day tested in the avoidance and escape tasks of the elevated T-maze (ETM) for measurements of an anxiety and a panic-related response, respectively. After ETM measurements, animals were also evaluated for anxiety-related behavior in the light/dark transition model and had their motor activity assessed in an open field. Additionally, we evaluated delta-FosB immunoreactivity (Fos-ir) in serotonergic cells of the dorsal raphe (DR).
Results:CBD showed an anxiolytic (decreased ETM avoidance latencies) and a panicolytic-like effect (increased ETM escape latencies) at the dose of 2.5 mg/kg. This same dose tended to decrease the time spent in the dark compartment, while at the same time increasing time spent in the light compartment of the light/dark transition model. Treatment with 5 mg/kg was without effect. No changes in locomotor activity were found. CBD also significantly decreased Fos-ir in different columns of the periaqueductal gray and in the dorsal region (DRD) and lateral wings (lwDR) of the DR. Tryptophan hydroxylase immunoreactivity was increased in the lwDR, DRD and ventral regions of the DR. Double immunostaining, however, was only increased in the lwDR, the main DR subnucleus associated to the modulation of panic-related responses, after treatment with CBD 2.5 mg.
Conclusions: These results suggest the efficacy of an oral lipid-based CBD nanoemulsion for the treatment of anxiety-related disorders and contribute to a better understanding of the behavioral and neurobiological effects of CBD in anxiety and panic.