bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tobacco smoking and prevalence of communicable and non-communicable diseases in rural South Africa: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chidumwa Glory , Olivier Stephen , Ngubane Hloniphile , Zulu Thando , Sewpaul Ronel , Kruse Gina , Rigotti Nancy A. , Siedner Mark J. , Reddy Krishna P. , Wong Emily B.
Published: April 2023

Background
South Africa is facing a convergence of communicable diseases (CDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The contribution of tobacco use to the burden of these conditions is unknown.
Methods
We analyzed the associations between current tobacco smoking and four important CDs and NCDs in Vukuzazi, a cross-sectional study of individuals aged 15 years and older conducted between 2018–2020 in a demographic surveillance area in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data on HIV, active tuberculosis (TB), hypertension and diabetes mellitus were collected via direct measurement from participants.
Results
Of 18,024 participants (68% female, median age 37 years [interquartile rage 23–56 years]), 1,301 (7.2%) reported current smoking. Prevalence of HIV infection was similarly high among people who currently smoked (34.6%) and people who had never smoked (33.9%). However, among people living with HIV (PLWH), there was a higher prevalence of detectable viremia in people reporting current smoking compared to people who reported never smoking (28.8% vs. 16.6%; p-value < 0.001). Active TB was more prevalent in people who currently smoked than in people who never smoked (3.1% vs 1.3%, p < 0.001). In contrast, the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus were lower in people reporting current smoking than in people reporting never smoking (17.1% vs 26.0% (p < 0.001), and 2.5% vs 10.2% (p < 0.001), respectively). In sex-stratified multivariable analyses that were adjusted for potential confounding factors (including body mass index for the NCDs), the magnitude of differences in CD prevalence between people who currently smoked and people who never smoked decreased, whereas the lower prevalence of NCDs among people reporting current smoking persisted.
Conclusions
In rural South Africa, smoking is associated with higher rates of active TB, and people with HIV who smoke have worse disease control. In contrast, hypertension and diabetes mellitus are less common in those who smoke. Interventions to screen for TB among those who smoke and to address smoking among people with HIV may be particularly impactful.
Evaluation of a Structured Self-Management Training for Peer Supporters with Type 2 Diabetes and Arterial Hypertension, led by a Specialist Nurse
Authors: Virtič Tina , Mihevc Matic , Zavrnik Črt , Lukančič Majda Mori , Gorenjec Nina Ružić , Susič Antonija Poplas , Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika
Published: April 2023

Introduction:
Training of peer supporters is critical because the success of the entire peer support intervention depends on the knowledge and experience that peer supporters can share with other patients. The objective was to evaluate the pilot implementation of a specialist nurse-led self-management training for peer supporters with type 2 diabetes (T2D), with or without coexistent arterial hypertension (AH), in terms of feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness.
Methods:
A prospective pre-post interventional pilot study was conducted in two Community Health Centres in Slovenia from May 2021 to August 2022. Purposive sampling was performed to recruit eligible patients to become trained peer supporters volunteers. Training was led by an educator, a specialist nurse, and was based on the comprehensive curriculum using the Diabetes Conversation MapsTM. Data were collected from medical records, by clinical measurements, and using questionnaires on sociodemographic and clinical data, the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability, knowledge of T2D and AH, and the Appraisal of Diabetes Scale, and evaluation forms.
Results:
Participants evaluated the training as highly acceptable and satisfactory. After training, peer supporters’ knowledge of T2D (p<0.001) and AH (p=0.024) improved significantly compared with baseline knowledge. 6 months after training, their weight decreased significantly (p=0.022) from 85.8 (SD 19.5) kg at baseline to 84.2 (SD 20.0) kg and body mass index (BMI) decreased (p=0.020) from 30.4 (SD 6.2) at baseline to 29.8 (SD 6.2).
Conclusion:
Self-management training for peer supporters, led by a specialist nurse, proved feasible, acceptable, and effective. It resulted in improved knowledge and positive changes in self-management behavior of peer supporters, as evidenced by the decrease in their BMI over a six-month period. This suggests that ongoing self-management training for peer supporters could be an important component of a successful peer support intervention for people with T2D and AH at the primary healthcare level.
Trial registration:
The research is part of the international research project SCUBY: Scale up diabetes and hypertension care for vulnerable people in Cambodia, Slovenia and Belgium, which is registered in ISRCTN registry (https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN41932064).
Identification of GBP2 and TMSB10 as Immune-associated Genes in Hypertension Nephropathy by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis and Machine Learning
Authors: Liao Xiaolin , Lu Huaguan , Liu Jianjun , Wang Yuhong
Published: April 2023

Clinical and experimental proof suggests that hypertension nephropathy (HN) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Our study aims to disclose the role of immune-related genes in the progression of HN. Using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, two human HN gene expression datasets (GSE37455 and GSE37460; n = 35) along with the relevant controls (n = 43) could be as the discovery metadata to analyze for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HN. Three different machine-learning algorithms were integrated to screen immune-related genes in HN. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to estimate diagnostic efficacy. The diagnostic value and expression levels of these candidate genes were validated in the GSE104954 dataset (20 HN patients and 3 controls). Single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was used to evaluate immune cell infiltrations, and immune checkpoints were quantified. The expression of the potential genes was confirmed in vivo. As a result, a total of 220 DEGs were identified between HN and control samples in these datasets, of which 52 were immune differential genes. The magenta module in WGCNA was the highest correlation. Two immune-associated genes GBP2 (guanylate binding protein 2) and TMSB10 (Thymosin β10) for HN were obtained after the intersection of genes screened by machine learning. The expression levels of GBP2 and TMSB10 were validated using discovery and validation cohort data sets. Following the ssGSEA analysis, we identified potential immune cell types in HN patients, as well as revealed the correlation between immune-related genes (GBP2 and TMSB10) and immune cells. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein levels of GBP2 and TMSB10 in vivo were consistent with the bioinformatics analysis which confirms the accuracy of our analysis. Our results demonstrated that GBP2 and TMSB10 are promising immune-related genes for the diagnosis of HN, which may help in the development of more precisely tailored HN immunotherapy.
Differential expression of COL6 family is a potential tumor marker for predicting gastric cancer
Authors: Ma Lei , Wang Yanfeng , Li Tao , Ling Jun , Wang Bao-Zheng , Cai Wei-Ji , Qi Lihua , Chen Jing , Liu Qilun
Published: April 2023

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers in the worldwide and is the leading cause of death in patients. Despite significant advances in treatment, the 5-year survival rate remains low. Therefore, the discovery of tumor markers that can predict gastric cancer and estimate its prognosis will improve this situation.
Methods
In this study, TIMER2, Kaplan–Meier plotter and GEPIA databases were used to analyze the expression of COL6 family gene in gastric cancer tissues, and analyzed their relationship with different pathological stages and tumor prognosis. Meanwhile, we analyzed the Genetic Alteration, Co-expression, Neighbor Gene Network, Interaction Analyses, enrichment analysis and immune infiltration analysis of COL6 in Patients with GC in cBioPortal, STRING databases and XIANTAO platform.
Results
We found that the COL6 family (COL6A1, COL1A2, COL6A3, COL6A4P1, COL6A4P2, COL6A5 and COL6A6) genes were significantly up-regulated in gastric adenocarcinoma relative to normal tissue adjacent to the cancer. A significant correlation was found between the expression of COL6A1/2/3 and the pathological stage of GC patients. GC patients with high COL6A1/2/3/5/6 expression were all associated with poor survival, while COL6A4P1/P2/6 were significantly associated with metastasis or recurrence in patients. Subsequently, we performed functional enrichment analysis and found that its cellular function was associated with Focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction. Our data also showed that COL6A1/2/3/5/6 were positively with immune infiltration, while a negative correlation was found between COL6A/4P1/4P2 and immune cells infiltration, which may be associated with poorer relapse-free survival (RFS).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that the COL6 family (COL6A1/2/3/4P1/4P2/5/6) is a potential biomarker for determining the prognosis of gastric cancer and It also provides theoretical basis for immunotherapy.
A self-managed exercise therapy program for wrist osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Larsson Sara L , Ekstrand Elisabeth , Dahlin Lars B , Björkman Anders , Brogren Elisabeth
Published: April 2023

Background
Post-traumatic wrist osteoarthritis (OA) may eventually lead to pain, muscular weakness, and stiffness of the wrist, which can affect the function of the entire upper limb and cause reduced quality of life. Although there is strong evidence that all patients with OA should be offered adequate education and exercises as a first-line treatment, an effective self-management program, including structured education and therapeutic exercises, has not yet been introduced for individuals with wrist OA. The purpose of this study is to describe a self-managed exercise therapy program with joint protective strategies to improve neuromuscular control and to investigate if this exercise therapy program is more effective in reducing pain and improving function, compared to a training program with range of motion exercises, for individuals with wrist OA.
Methods
This is a study protocol that describes a single-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) in patients with symptomatic and radiographically confirmed wrist OA with two treatment arms. The participants will randomly be assigned either to a neuromuscular exercise therapy program or to a training program with range of motion exercises only. Participants in both groups will receive a wrist orthosis and structured education on wrist anatomy, pathophysiology, and joint protective self-management strategies. The programs consist of home exercises that will be performed twice a day for 12 weeks. The Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) is the primary outcome measure of pain and function. Wrist Range of Motion (ROM), grip strength, the Numeric Pain Rating scale (NPRS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), Global Rating of Change (GROC) and conversion to surgery are the secondary measures of outcome. Assessments will be performed at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after baseline by a blinded assessor.
Discussion
The results from this study can add new knowledge about the effectiveness of a self-managed exercise therapy program on pain and function for individuals with wrist OA. If this self-management program proves to be efficient, it can redefine current treatment strategies and may be implemented in wrist OA treatment protocols.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05367817. Retrospectively registered on 27 April 2022. https://clinicaltrials.gov.
Genome-wide identification of R2R3-MYB Family Genes and their Response to Stress in Dendrobium nobile
Authors: Wu Liping , Fan Jizhou , Su Xinglong , Rao Weiyi , Duan Yingying , Wang Yuqing , Jiang Weimin , Sun Zongping , Zhang Lei , Peng Daiyin , Xing Shihai
Published: April 2023

R2R3-MYB is one of the largest and most important gene families, participating in the regulation of plant growth and development and response to abiotic stresses. However, the function of R2R3-MYB genes in Dendrobium nobile remains largely unknown. Here, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of D. nobile R2R3-DnMYBs was performed, investigating phylogenic relationships, gene structures, motif composition, chromosomal locations, collinearity analysis, and cis-acting elements. Totally, 125 DnMYB genes were identified in the D. nobile genome, and they could be subdivided into 26 groups by further divided through phylogenetic analysis. Most genes with similar exon-intron structures and motif compositions in eaach subgroup exhibited similar functions. All of DnMYB genes were mapped on 19 chromosomes with the co-linearity relationship. Moreover, their expression patterns were analyzed in various tissues and abiotic stresses. The results showed that DnMYBs were significantly differential expressed in different tissues, following abiotic stresses and phytohormone treatments, indicating their possible roles in biological processes and some abiotic stress tolerance and adaptation. This work provides a comprehensive understanding of the R2R3-MYB family of D. nobile, and lays a foundation for future research on the potential function of DnMYB gene in the growth and development of D. nobile.
Integrative analysis of mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming in early-stage colon and liver cancer
Authors: Kim Yeongmin , Shin So-Yeon , Jung Jihun , Kim Yumin , Kang Yun-Won , Lee Sunjae , Oh Chang Myung
Published: April 2023

Gastrointestinal malignancies such as colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) and liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) are the major causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Identifying the common genetic foundations and signaling pathways among these cancers can lead to improved understanding of their underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Here, we tried to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched pathways associated with tumorigenesis using publicly accessible the Cancer Genome Atlas datasets of COAD and LIHC. Our analysis revealed that DEGs during early tumorigenesis were associated with various aspects of cell cycle regulation. Genes related to lipid metabolism were significantly enriched in COAD and LIHC, suggesting that dysregulated lipid metabolism may play a crucial role in the development and progression of COAD and LIHC. A subset of DEGs associated with mitochondrial function and structure was identified, among which genes involved in mitochondrial protein import and mitochondrial respiratory complex assembly were upregulated in both cancers. We identified mitochondrial 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase (HMGCS2) as a crucial regulator of cancer cell metabolism. Using a genome-scale metabolic model, we showed that HMGCS2 suppression increased glycolysis, lipid biosynthesis and elongation, and decreased fatty acid oxidation in colon cancer cells. Overall, the present study highlights the potential contribution of dysregulated lipid metabolism, including ketogenesis, to the development and progression of COAD and LIHC. These findings could prove vital for developing targeted therapies for these malignancies and pave the way for more effective treatments.
Mixed-dimensional stacked structure for a specific wavelength-selectable photodetector with ambipolar photoresponse
Authors: SON Dong Ick , Park Young Jae , Shim Jaeho , Lee Joo Song , Lee Kyu Seung , Shin Dong Su , Ko Kang Bok , Yim Sang-Youp , Kim Seongjun , Shin Hoon-Kyu , Park Donghee , Yun Yong Ju
Published: April 2023

Mixed-dimensional composite structures using 0D quantum dots (QDs) and 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) materials are expected to attract great interest in optoelectronics due to potential to generate new optical properties. Here, we report on the unique optical characteristics of a devices with a mixed dimensional vertically stacked structures based on WSe2/CdSeS QDs monolayer/MoS2 (2D/0D/2D). Specifically, it exhibits an ambipolar photoresponse characteristic, with a negative photoresponse observed in the 400–600 nm wavelength range and a positive photoresponse appearing at 700 nm wavelength. It resulted the high negative responsivity of up to 52.22 mA/W under 400 nm, which is 163 times higher than that of the photodetector without CdSeS QDs. We also demonstrate the negative photoresponse which could be due to increased carrier collision probability and non-radiative recombination. Device modeling and simulation reveal that Auger recombination among the types of non-radiative recombination is the main cause of negative photocurrent generation. Consequently, we have discovered ambipolar photoresponse near a specific wavelength corresponding to the energy of quantum dots. Our study reveals interesting phenomenon in the mixed low-dimensional stacked structure and paves the way to exploit it for the development of innovative photodetection materials as well as for optoelectronic applications.
Weight loss treatment of COVID-19 in patients with NCDs: a pilot prospective clinical trial
Authors: Oshakbayev Kuat , Durmanova Aigul , Zhankalova Zulfiya , Idrisov Alisher , Bedelbayeva Gulnara , Gazaliyeva Meruyert , Nabiyev Altay , Tordai Attila , Dukenbayeva Bibazhar
Published: April 2023

Background
COVID-19 in comorbidity with non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) complicate the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and increase mortality rate.
Objective.
To evaluate the effects of the weight loss treatment on clinic/laboratory inflammation and metabolic profile, reactive oxygen species (ROS) body composition in patients with COVID-19 in comorbidity with NCDs.
Design:
A 6-week open, pilot prospective clinical trial.
Setting:
The study included 72 adult patients with COVID and influenza in comorbidity with type 2 diabetes (T2D), hypertension, and NASH.
Interventions:
The treatment involved a fast-weight-loss-method (Analimentary detoxication, ANADETO) including calorie restriction to 50–100 kcal/day, salt intake to 5–6 gr/day, hot water drinking 1000–1500 ml/day, walking > 2,000 steps/day, and sexual self-restraint.
Main outcome measures:
Primary endpoints: Clinic/infectious/inflammation tests for COVID/Influenza; weight loss during 14 days. Secondary endpoints: fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, blood insulin; systolic/diastolic BP; blood lipids; ALT/AST, chest-CT-scan.
Results
The patients weight lost from baseline (-9,14 − 12,4%; P < 0.001); COVID and Influenza were a negative in > 96.3% patients at the 14 days. Systolic/diastolic BP normalized (P < 0.0001), glucose/lipids metabolism (P < 0.0001); ALT/AST normalized (P < 0.0001), platelets increased from baseline (P < 0.0001), chest-CT (P < 0.0001) at 6-week follow-up. The previous antidiabetic, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective, and other symptomatic medications were adequately decreased in 2–5 days to completely stopping by 5–8 days treatment.
Conclusions
The non-pharmacological treatment including fast weight loss is clinical/laboratory benefit in treatment of patients with COVID-19 and Influenza in comorbidity with T2D, hypertension, and NASH.
Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05635539 (12/01/2022): https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05635539?term=NCT05635539&draw=2&rank=1 .
Base on solid-works design of compact high efficient solar water heater
Authors: STUBBLEFIELD RAMCY SAAH
Published: April 2023

A solar water heater is a type of heating system that uses solar energy from the sun to heat water for domestic, industrial, or commercial use. It typically consists of a solar collector panel or array, a storage tank, and plumbing or circulation systems. The solar collector panel absorbs the energy from the sun and transfers it to the water in the storage tank. The heated water can then be used for various purposes, such as showering, washing, or space heating.[1,2]
A solar heating system, on the other hand, is a more general term that refers to any type of heating system that utilizes solar energy. This can include solar water heaters, but it can also include other systems, such as solar space heaters, solar air heating systems, or solar-assisted heat pumps. Solar heating systems can be used in residential, commercial, or industrial settings and can be integrated with existing heating systems to provide a renewable energy source and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.[1]
Anomalous Sabatier principle on high entropy alloy catalysts
Authors: Singh Chandra Veer , Chen Zhi-Wen , Li Jian , Ou Pengfei , Huang Jianan Erick , Wen Zi , Chen Li Xin , Yao Xue , Cai Guang Ming , Yang Chun Cheng , Jiang Qing
Published: April 2023

The Sabatier principle is widely explored in heterogeneous catalysis, graphically depicted in volcano plots. The most desirable activity is located at the peak of the volcano, and further advances in activity past this optimum are possible only by designing a catalyst that circumvents the limitations entailed by the Sabatier principle. In this work, by density functional theory calculations, we found that high entropy alloy (HEA) surface with spatially varying adsorption free energy of hydrogen (ΔGH*), where the active sites with strong adsorption adsorb hydrogen (H*) and other sites with weak adsorption release H* to produce H2, was against the “just right” (ΔGH* = 0 eV) in the Sabatier principle of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The Gaussian distribution [X ~ N(µ, σ2)] of ΔGH* on HEA was proposed as a descriptor, deriving an anomalous Sabatier principle, where a larger σ value results with µ = 0 eV results in a higher catalytic activity for HER. As a proof-of-concept, we synthesized a series of alloy systems, the PtFeCoNiCu HEA catalyst has the best catalytic performance for HER with an overpotential of 10.8 mV at -10 mA cm− 2 and 4.6 times higher intrinsic activity over the state-of-the-art Pt/C. Moreover, the calculated adsorption energy of C*, O*, and N* on HEAs also follows a Gaussian distribution, indicating the anomalous Sabatier principle can be extended to other related catalytic reactions.
Abemaciclib pharmacovigilance analysis：a real-world analysis of post-marketing surveillance Data
Authors: Dong Zhu , Wang Zejun , Dong Weizheng , Li Weizheng
Published: April 2023

Background
Abemaciclib is currently the most active Cyclin4/6-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) for the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative(HER2−) advanced breast cancer. We explored the potential adverse reactions of Abemaciclib by mining the relevant reported data and tried to provide information for the clinical safe medication.
Methods
Reporting odds ratio (ROR) was used to detect adverse event signals from the data in the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adverse event reporting system database (FAERS). The definition depended on preferred terms (PTs) and system organ class (SOCs) by the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA).
Results
A total of 5680 reports and 12170 adverse events were retrieved, 55 alert signals were excavated. Among them, the strong signals were "weight decreased”, “blood creatinine increased”, “constipation”, “stomatitis”, “pleural effusion”, “pneumothorax”, ”hot flashes”, ”hypokalemia”, “blood potassium decreased”, “taste disorder”, “eating disorder”, ”renal impairment”, “kidney disease” and “lacrimation increased”. We found that “eating disorder”, “hot flush” and ”pleural effusion” are some new safety signals. The system organ class (SOC) involved in the highest frequency signals mainly focused on abnormal examination parameters and gastrointestinal system diseases.
Conclusions
Overall, by using the FDA FAERS the present study suggested some new safety signals, which deserve more careful monitoring in clinic.
Iodine Nutrition: Iodine content in iodized salt in Sri Lanka and the effect of temperature and storage conditions on the stability
Authors: Hettiarachchi H. H. K. A. P. K. , Premachandre G. M. G. C. K. , Jayasundera A. C. A. , Satharasinghe D. A. , Wanigasekera W. M. A. P.
Published: April 2023

Background
The major source of dietary iodine for the Sri Lankan population is iodized salt. The recommended fortification level of iodine is 15.0–30.0 ppm. Both excessive and insufficient iodine levels are harmful to the human body. Inadequate consumption of iodine leads to iodine deficiency disorders and excessive intake causes iodine-induced hyperthyroidism.
Methods
This study assessed the iodine content in commercially available salt products and evaluated the stability of iodine under different storage conditions. Packeted crystal and powdered salt products were used to determine the total iodine content by analyzing both iodide (I−) and iodate (IO3−). The effect of temperature and packaging material on the stability of iodine was also recorded.
Results
The results revealed that five products out of ten exceeded the recommended iodine level and were in the range of 31.60 ± 1.5 to 42.19 ± 3.48 ppm. The iodine content of four products was within the recommended fortified levels, and one had a lower amount of 12.77 ± 0.35 ppm. The mean iodine content of powdered salt was 35.08 ppm and 27.25 ppm in crystal salt. There was no significant effect of temperature at 25°C, 45°C, and 95°C on total iodine level and iodine level by iodate. The total mean iodine loss after heating to 95°C for 30 minutes was 5.0% in powdered salt and 8.7% in crystal salts. Total iodine retained during storage in opened containers for one week in glass containers was 90.78% in crystal salt and 87.11% in powdered salt. The percentage of iodine retained in plastic containers was 83.77% in crystal salt and 71.6% in powdered salt. In coconut shell containers 61.94% and 49.23% iodine retained was observed in crystal salt and powdered salt respectively. The lowest iodine retain was in gunny bags 54.24% in crystal salt and 44.77% in powdered salt.
Conclusions
Most of the commercially available salt products (50%) contain a higher amount of iodine than the recommended fortification levels. Short-term exposure of iodized salt to cooking temperatures and in different storage containers didn’t show any remarkable reduction in the levels of iodine.
A multi-response sensor based on a bat-like Zn(II) coordination polymer: synthesis, structure and ‘turn off’ sensing of TC, Fe3+ and AA in aqueous system
Authors: Zhang Ya-Tong , Wang Ai , Feng Si-Si , Yuan Cai-Xia , Lu Li-Ping
Published: April 2023

A new 2D homochiral zinc coordination polymer (Zn-CP) with 52-member rings was synthesized by solvothermal method. X-ray single crystal diffraction results show that the initial ligand (H2ibga = (4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzyl)-L-glutamic acid) cyclized and crystallized in monoclinic with space group P2 after coordination with zinc(II) ions. Phase purity and thermal stability of Zn-CP were verified by X-ray powder diffraction (PXRD) and thermogravimetric (TG), respectively. Additionally, Zn-CP can recognize tetracycline (TC), Fe3+ and ascorbic acid (AA) rapidly and selectively in aqueous solution, with low detection limits (LODs) of 3.49 nM, 4.42 nM and 0.38 µM, respectively. The detection mechanisms have been investigated in detail.
Genetic contributions of noncognitive skills to academic development
Authors: Malanchini Margherita , Allegrini Andrea , Nivard Michel G , Biroli Pietro , Rimfeld Kaili , Cheesman Rosa , von Stumm Sophie , Demange Perline , Bergen Elsje van , Grotzinger Andrew , Raffington Laurel , Fuente Javier de la , Pingault Jean-Baptiste , Harden K , Tucker-Drob Elliot , Plomin Robert
Published: April 2023

Noncognitive skills such as motivation and self-regulation, predict academic achievement beyond cognitive skills. However, the role of genetic and environmental factors and of their interplay in these developmental associations remains unclear. We provide a comprehensive account of how cognitive and noncognitive skills contribute to academic achievement from ages 7 to 16 in a sample of >10,000 children from England and Wales. Results indicated that noncognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement across development. Triangulating genetic methods, including twin analyses and polygenic scores (PGS), we found that the contribution of noncognitive genetics to academic achievement becomes stronger over development. The PGS for noncognitive skills predicted academic achievement developmentally, with prediction nearly doubling by age 16, pointing to gene-environment correlation (rGE). Within-family analyses indicated both passive and active/evocative rGE processes driven by noncognitive genetics. By studying genetic effects through a developmental lens, we provide novel insights into the role of noncognitive skills in academic development.
Brief Report: Children with a history of both maternal immune activation and prematurity are not at increased risk of ADHD
Authors: Ellul Pierre , Wallez Solène , Acquaviva Eric , Rosenzwajg Michelle , Klatzmann David , Delorme Richard , Melchior Maria
Published: April 2023

Maternal autoimmune diseases (AID) are risk factors for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Animal studies suggest that maternal immune activation (MIA) is a disease primer for ADHD, with second environmental factor precipitating the onset of the disease. Prematurity is also a major risk factor for ADHD. In this study, we sought to explore the interaction between parental AID and prematurity on ADHD risk in a community sample. Children of AID parents born prematurely appeared at increased odds of ADHD but but these two risk factors do not appear to be additive (OR: 1.39 [95 CI 0.75; 2.46]). Longitudinal studies with larger numbers of participants are needed.
Whole-Body Photobiomodulation Therapy for Fibromyalgia: A Feasibility Trial
Authors: Fitzmaurice Bethany C. , Heneghan Nicola R. , Rayen Asius T.A. , Grenfell Rebecca L. , Soundy Andrew A
Published: April 2023

Background
Effective treatment for fibromyalgia (FM) is lacking and further treatment options are needed. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) represents one potential treatment option. Whilst favourable findings have been reported using localised PBMT, no investigations have established the value of whole-body PBMT for the complete set of symptom domains in FM.
Methods
A single-arm feasibility study was conducted in accordance to CONSORT (CONsolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) guidelines. A non-probability sampling method was used to access individuals with FM. The primary outcome measure was identified as the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR). Forty-nine participants were screened and 21 trial participants entered the trial. Nineteen participants completed the intervention (18 whole-body PBMT sessions over approximately six weeks). Descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis was undertaken to represent feasibility outcomes. Acceptability of the trial device and processes were established. Outcome measures towards efficacy data were guided by core and peripheral OMERACT (outcomes measures in rheumatological clinical trials) domains, utilising a combination of participant-reported and performance-based outcome measures. Data for the embedded qualitative component of the trial were captured by participant-reported experience measures and audio-recorded semi-structured interviews.
Results
Positive changes were observed for FM-specific quality of life, pain, tenderness, stiffness, fatigue, sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment. Patient global assessment revealed improvements at 6 weeks, with continued effect at 24 weeks. FM-specific quality of life at 24 weeks remained improved compared with baseline scores.
Conclusions
Findings provide evidence to support a full-scale trial and shows promise regarding potential efficacy of this novel non-invasive treatment in an FM population.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov trial; NCT05069363, 06/10/2021
Glymphatic improves inflammation and apoptosis after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice through ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Xie Zhuoxi , Zhou Qian , Tan Xiaoli , Meng Weiting , Pang Yeyu , Huang Lizhen , Ding Zhihao , Hu Yuanhong , Li Ruhua , Huang Guilan , Li Hao
Published: April 2023

Background
The acute inhibition of glymphatic after stroke has been shown to aggravate post-stroke inflammation and apoptosis; however, the related mechanisms remain ambiguous. This study aimed to assess the specific mechanism of inflammation and apoptosis after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury by improving glymphatic dysfunction.
Materials and Methods
Ischemic stroke was induced using the mice middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. The C57/BL6 mice were randomly divided into three groups as follows: sham operation, Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) 48 hours, and N-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl) pyridine-3-carboxamide dihydrochloride (TGN-020) + I/R 48 hours treatment. Neurological examination, TTC, fluorescence tracer, western blot, and immunofluorescence staining were performed in all mice in sequence. The glymphatic function in the cortex surrounding cerebral infarction was determined using tracer, glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), aquaporin-4 (AQP4) co-staining, and beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) staining, differential genes were detected using RNA-seq. Iba-1, IL-1β, TNF-α, cleaved caspase 3, and tunel staining were used to verify inflammation and apoptosis after TGN-020 treatment.
Results
Compared with I/R group, the degree of neurological deficit was alleviated in TGN-020 group. TGN-020 alleviated glymphatic dysfunction by improving astrocyte proliferation and reducing tracer accumulation in the peri-infarct area. RNA-seq showed that the differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in the activation of astrocytes and microglia, and involved in the ERK pathway. RNA-seq was verified by western blot and immunofluorescence.
Conclusions
The inflammation of astrocytes and microglia after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is closely related to the glymphatic system. The improvement of glymphatic function may play a neuroprotective role after cerebral I/R by inhibiting inflammation through ERK pathway.
Target the concomitant risk factors for pulmonary hypertension in an HIV-positive man: a case report
Authors: Sun Cuiming , Wen Ying , Chen Yanli
Published: April 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive disease characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure causing right ventricular failure and death. HIV infection is one of the high-risk factors for the development of PH and HIV-related PH is associated with non-AIDS-related comorbidities. In this study we report a case of pulmonary hypertension with several concomitant risk factors, who experienced a complete clinical improvement after drug rehabilitation, application of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and Sildenafil.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old HIV-positive man complained about worsening dyspnea was diagnosed with severe pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hypertension in this case was characterized by association with multi-factors including amphetamine inhalation, HIV infection, bacterial liver abscess with the history of splenectomy and past ventricular septal defect, which was different from previously reported cases with HIV-related pulmonary hypertension who were associated solely to HIV infection.

Conclusion

Pulmonary hypertension should be suspected among HIV-positive patients with unexplained dyspnea. Notably, investigating the co-existent risk factors and a multidisciplinary team are crucial for early diagnose and improved prognosis of HIV- related pulmonary hypertension.
Evaluation of Photobiomodulation Therapy (117 and 90 seconds) on Pain, Regeneration, and Epigenetic Factors (HDAC 2, DNMT3a) Expression Following Spinal Cord Injury in A Rat Model
Authors: MotamedNejad Ali , Behroozi Zahra , Kookli Keihan , Ghadaksaz Alireza , Fazeli Seyedalireza Moghaddas , Moshiri Ali , Ramezani Fatemeh , Janzadeh Atousa
Published: April 2023

Background Photobiomodulation therapy (PBM), due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic effects, and most importantly as a non-invasive procedure, has currently gained a special setting in pain relief and the treatment of Spinal cord injuries (SCI). However, the mechanism of action of the PBM is not yet completely understood. Methods In this study, SCI is induced by an aneurysm clip. Adult male rats were divided into 4 groups: Control, SCI, SCI + PBMT 90 seconds, and SCI + PBMT 117 seconds. After 7 weeks, hyperalgesia, allodynia, and functional recovery were assessed. Fibroblasts were counted after H&E staining. The expression of HDAC2, DNMT3a, GAD65, and GFAP after 4 weeks of daily PBMT (90 and 117 s) was probed by western blotting. Results Both PBMTs (90 & 117 seconds) significantly improved the pain and ability to move and fibroblast invasion was reduced. SCI + PBMT 90s, increased GAD65, HDAC2, and DNMT3a expression. However,PBMT 117s decreased GFAP, HDAC2, and DNMT3a. Conclusion PBMT 90 and 117 s improved the pain, and functional recovery equally. Yet, the mechanism of action appears to change with different durations of radiation.
WITHDRAWN: Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes: an efficient degradation method for the complete removal of Acid Blue 40
Authors: Júnior José Rubens Moraes , Claro Elis Marina Turini , Mendes Carolina Rosai , Dilarri Guilherme , Bidoia Ederio Dino
Published: April 2023

Degradation of Acid Blue 40 (AB40) anthraquinone dye by electrochemical treatment was examined using a dimensionally stable anode (DSA) and stainless-steel cathodes as electrode materials, with NaCl as supporting electrolyte and current density of 50 and 100 mA cm-2. To confirm if the electrolytic process was efficient in removing initial color and organic matter of the AB40 solution, spectrophotometric, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) analysis were performed. COD removal kinects were studied to evaluate the velocity rate of the reaction. Also, chloroform analysis was realized using a GC-MS to verify if it was generated during the process. Bioassays with Artemia salina, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactuca sativa were performed to verify if the process reduced the initial toxicity. The electrolytic treatment presented itself as a remarkable process degrading almost completely 96.96% of the color in 10 minutes of treatment, using of current density of 50 mA cm-2. The AB40 solution became more degradable presenting an increase in the biodegradability index. A chloroform formation was observed with current density of 50 mA cm-2, however, it presented concentrations below the EPA-USA regulations. Bioassays presented low toxicity for the treated solutions. The electrolytic treatment was shown to be highly effective for degradation of AB40 dye solution and DSA electrodes showed remarkable catalytic activity with applied current. It has environmental compatibility with low-cost and durable electrodes. In addition, it was observed high energy efficiency, no requirement for large quantities of chemicals and the process presented safety under soft conditions.
Mountaineering Team-Based Optimization Technique to Solve Economic Load Dispatch Problem
Authors: REDDY Y VENKATA KRISHNA , Ramanaiah M Laxmidevi , Sudhakar A
Published: April 2023

Economical load dispatch (ELD) and combined economic emission dispatch (CEED) problems are solved using optimization approaches. In order to handle ELD and CEED problems, a novel metaheuristic optimization technique based on human intelligence called the mountaineering team based optimization (MTBO) algorithm is projected in this paper. The MTBO method implemented based on the human cooperation and social behaviour taking into account the usual occurrences to reach a mountain top, this represents the finest overall solution. The projected MTBO method is utilised to address optimisation problems. This approach involves analysing the stages of regular and climbing movements, which are based on the leader's experience, the obstacles encountered during the ascent, and the risk of being trapped in local optimum performance. Additionally, the group's coordination and social support are considered to safeguard members from common catastrophes. To evaluate the efficiency of the suggested method, considered six cases for the ELD problem and four cases for a CEED problem. Along with the MTBO, other optimization techniques like flower pollination algorithm (FPA), ant lion optimization (ALO) and grey wolf optimization (GWO) methods are used to solve ELD and CEED problem. The MTBO method outperforms the competition in terms of robustness, ease of implementation, effective optimization performance for a optimal global solutions.
Correlation between automated volumetry of temporal lobes and electroencephalography in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Drobot Paulina Kinga , Wrzosek Marcin Adam , Banasik Aleksandra Ewa , Owsińska-Schmidt Karolina Barbara , Podgórski Przemysław
Published: April 2023

Background: Refractory epilepsy is a concern for many canines diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. In humans, refractory epilepsy is most often associated with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). In dogs, TLE pathology can go unnoticed on standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. In recent years, many studies have described the occurrence of TLE in dogs and cats diagnosed through volumetric evaluation of the hippocampus. Nevertheless, this has been performed manually, which may reduce the diagnostic sensitivity of the method. Additionally, due to the challenges involved in the manual assessment in dogs, volumetric evaluation of the brain lobes has not yet been possible. In contrast, automated volumetry has long been used for the diagnosis of many neurological diseases in humans. The development of veterinary medicine and availability of brain atlases has now made it possible to introduce automated volumetry in to veterinary neurology as well. Thus, this study aimed to develop an automatic volumetry method, translate the outcomes into the assessment of temporal lobe volume in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, and correlate the results with the electroencephalography (EEG) of epileptiform discharges (EDs).
Results: An automated volumetry method was developed in this study, which allowed the evaluation of temporal lobe volumes of 31 dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. The asymmetric ratio (AR) was then estimated and the results were correlated with the EEG EDs. Notably, 12/31 dogs had an AR greater than 6%. Among them, reduction in temporal lobe volume correlated with the side of the EEG EDs in seven cases. However, statistical analysis revealed no correlation between temporal lobe volume changes and ED location. There was a statistically significant difference in the AR between the group with a larger right ventricle and the group with symmetrical ventricles.
Conclusions: Our results may influence the classification of idiopathic epilepsy in dogs. Additionally, the diagnosis of TLE in dogs based on MRI volumetry in correlation with EEG examination, especially for dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy, can significantly influence the development of new therapeutic options such as surgery.
Etherswap (A crypto wallet)
Authors: Kaushalya Kaushalya Thopte , Yukta Yukta Pedhavi , Deepak Deepak Gavit , Suyash Suyash Gaikwad , Rushikesh Rushikesh Kale , Rahul Rahul Nagpure
Published: April 2023

This project aims to produce a cryptocurrency blockchain application. An online application can be accessed via this Blockchain Application System. Everyone with a net connection is able to access it throughout the Internet. This programme will assist the user in sending and receiving Ethereum over the blockchain network. A blockchain is a distributed, trustworthy data repository. Public-key cryptography and the Nobel idea are combined to make it work. The legitimate owner of the resource being traded signs each transaction on the blockchain. New currencies (resources) are created and given to an owner. Simply embed the new owner's public key in the transaction and sign it with the owner's private key to get ready for subsequent transactions that deliver those coins to other people. In this manner, a verifiable chain of transactions is established, with each new transaction linking to the previous transaction with the previous owner and having a new owner.
Complex of antamanide with the nitrate anion
Authors: Vaňura Petr , Sýkora David , Uhlíková Tereza
Published: April 2023

Anionic complex of antamanide with the nitrate anion has been proven by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) method. Further, applying quantum chemical DFT calculations, the most probable structure of this complex was derived. The nitrate anion is embedded in the molecule of antamanide and its oxygens atoms are bonded by seven bonds to the hydrogen atoms of the ligand. Finally, the interaction energy, E(int), of the antamanide-NO3- complex was calculated as E(int) = -175.9 kJ/mol
Probiotic-derived ecto-5'-nucleotidase produces anti-inflammatory adenosine metabolites in Treg-deficient scurfy mice
Authors: Liu Yuying , Armbrister Shabba A. , Okeugo Beanna , Mills Tingting W. , Daniel Rhea C. , Oh Jee-Hwan , Pijkeren Jan-Peter , Park Evelyn S. , Saleh Zeina M. , Lahiri Sharmistha , Roos Stefan , Rhoads J Marc
Published: April 2023

Probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (DSM 17938) prolonges the survival of Treg-deficient scurfy (SF) mice and reduces multiorgan inflammation by a process requiring adenosine receptor 2A (A2A) on T cells. We hypothesized that L. reuteri-derived ecto-5’-nucleotidase (ecto-5’NT) activity acts to generate adenosine, which may be a central mediator for L. reuteri protection in SF mice. We evaluated DSM 17938-5’NT activity and the associated adenosine and inosine levels in plasma, gut and liver of SF mice. We examined orally fed DSM 17938, DSM 17938Δ5NT (with a deleted 5’NT gene), and DSM 32846 (BG-R46) (a naturally selected strain derived from DSM 17938). Results showed that DSM 17938 and BG-R46 produced adenosine while “exhausting” AMP, whereas DSM 17938∆5NT did not generate adenosine in culture. Plasma 5’NT activity was increased by DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not by DSM 17938Δ5NT in SF mice. BG-R46 increased both adenosine and inosine levels in the cecum of SF mice. DSM 17938 increased adenosine levels, whereas BG-R46 increased inosine levels in the liver. DSM 17938Δ5NT did not significantly change the levels of adenosine or inosine in the GI tract or the liver of SF mice. Although regulatory CD73+CD8+ T cells were decreased in spleen and blood of SF mice, these regulatory T cells could be increased by orally feeding DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not DSM 17938Δ5NT. In conclusion, probiotic-5’NT may be a central mediator of DSM 17938 protection against autoimmunity. Optimal 5’NT activity from various probiotic strains could be beneficial in treating Treg-associated immune disorders in humans.