bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of power wheelchair driving performance in simulator compared to driving in real-life situations: the SIMADAPT (simulator ADAPT) project—a pilot study
Authors: Fraudet Bastien , Leblong Emilie , Piette Patrice , Nicolas Benoit , Gouranton Valérie , Babel Marie , Devigne Louise , Pasteau François , Gallien Philippe
Published: April 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate users’ driving performances with a Power Wheelchair (PWC) driving simulator in comparison to the same driving task in real conditions with a standard power wheelchair.

Methods

Three driving circuits of progressive difficulty levels (C1, C2, C3) that were elaborated to assess the driving performances with PWC in indoor situations, were used in this study. These circuits have been modeled in a 3D Virtual Environment to replicate the three driving task scenarios in Virtual Reality (VR). Users were asked to complete the three circuits with respect to two testing conditions during three successive sessions, i.e. in VR and on a real circuit (R). During each session, users completed the two conditions. Driving performances were evaluated using the number of collisions and time to complete the circuit. In addition, driving ability by Wheelchair Skill Test (WST) and mental load were assessed in both conditions. Cybersickness, user satisfaction and sense of presence were measured in VR. The conditions R and VR were randomized.

Results

Thirty-one participants with neurological disorders and expert wheelchair drivers were included in the study. The driving performances between VR and R conditions were statistically different for the C3 circuit but were not statistically different for the two easiest circuits C1 and C2. The results of the WST was not statistically different in C1, C2 and C3. The mental load was higher in VR than in R condition. The general sense of presence was reported as acceptable (mean value of 4.6 out of 6) for all the participants, and the cybersickness was reported as acceptable (SSQ mean value of 4.25 on the three circuits in VR condition).

Conclusion

Driving performances were statistically different in the most complicated circuit C3 with an increased number of collisions in VR, but were not statistically different for the two easiest circuits C1 and C2 in R and VR conditions. In addition, there were no significant adverse effects such as cybersickness. The results show the value of the simulator for driving training applications. Still, the mental load was higher in VR than in R condition, thus mitigating the potential for use with people with cognitive disorders. Further studies should be conducted to assess the quality of skill transfer for novice drivers from the simulator to the real world.

Trial registration Ethical approval n$$^\circ$$

∘

2019-A001306-51 from Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Mediterranée IV. Trial registered the 19/11/2019 on ClinicalTrials.gov in ID: NCT04171973.
Nonlinear relationship between viral load and TCT in single/multiple HPV52 infection
Authors: Ma Bingbing , Zhou Jie , Zhou Weijuan , Ma Zhanzhong , Chen Juan , Hu Hongbo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To determine the correlation between HPV (human papillomavirus) 52 viral load, multiple infections and ThinPrep cytology test (TCT), to inform clinical management of HPV52-positive women after cervical cancer screening.

Methods

A total of 1,882 female patients who had positive quantitative HPV tests at Yuebei People's Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022, of whom 533 tested positive for HPV52. We excluded patients who combined HPV16 and/or HPV 18 positivity and whom HPV52 viral load could not be calculated. The final enrollment was 488 patients, including 400 NILM, 48 ASC-US, 28 LSIL and 12 HSIL. The HPV test is a quantitative multiplexed fluorescent PCR assay that provides both HPV genotyping and viral load.

Results

In our study, there were differences in the median distribution of viral loads among various cytological class categories. The risk of TCT results (LSIL or worse) was increased with the increase of HPV52 viral load, for every LOG unit increase in HPV52 viral load, the risk increased by 26.6%. More importantly, we found a nonlinear relationship between HPV52 viral load and TCT results (LSIL or worse) in both single and multiple infections. When the viral load reaches a threshold, the risk of abnormal cytological results increases significantly.

Conclusion

HPV52 viral load is an independent risk factor for TCT results (LSIL or worse). The relationship between HPV52 viral load and TCT results (LSIL or worse) is not linear. Viral load may be used as a triage indicator for HPV52-positive patients, thus improving the post-screening clinical management of HPV52-positive women.
Changing clinical characteristics of pediatric inpatients with pneumonia during COVID-19 pandamic: a retrospective study
Authors: Chen Mengxue , Zhou Yabing , Jin Shengjie , Bai Shasha , Tang Xiaoyu , Liu Quanhua , Wang Liwei , Ji Ruoxu , Liu Haipei , Zhong Wenwei , Chen Yi , Fang Dingzhu , Zhang Jianhua , Hua Li
Published: April 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic have impacts on the prevalence of other pathogens and people’s social lifestyle. This study aimed to compare the pathogen, allergen and micronutrient characteristics of pediatric inpatients with pneumonia prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a large tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China.

Methods

Patients with pneumonia admitted to the Department of Pediatric Pulmonology of Xinhua Hospital between March-August 2019 and March-August 2020 were recruited. And clinical characteristics of the patients in 2019 were compared with those in 2020.

Results

Hospitalizations for pneumonia decreased by 74% after the COVID-19 pandemic. For pathogens, virus, mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and mixed infection rates were all much lower in 2020 than those in 2019 (P < 0.01). Regarding allergens, compared with 2019, the positive rates of house dust mite, shrimp and crab were significantly higher in 2020 (P < 0.01). And for micronutrients, the levels of vitamin B2, B6, C and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in 2020 were observed to be significantly lower than those in 2019 (P < 0.05). For all the study participants, longer hospital stay (OR = 1.521, P = 0.000), milk allergy (OR = 6.552, P = 0.033) and calcium (Ca) insufficiency (OR = 12.048, P = 0.019) were identified as high-risk factors for severe pneumonia by multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

The number of children hospitalized with pneumonia and incidence of common pathogen infections were both reduced, and that allergy and micronutrient status in children were also changed after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Application of a novel deep eutectic solvent modified carbon nanotube for pipette-tip micro solid phase extraction of 6-mercaptopurine
Authors: Raisi Leila , Hashemi Sayyed Hossein , Jamali Keikha Ahmad , Kaykhaii Massoud
Published: April 2024

Background

6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) is a chemotherapy drug mainly used to treat leukemia. It is a persistent organic pollutant and can remain in the environment for a long period of time. The presence of 6-MP in the environment poses a number of hazards and needs to be assessed to monitor its potential risk to human health and the environment. However, due to its trace amount in complicated matrices, a clean-up and preconcentration step before its determination is compulsory.

Results

As a highly efficient adsorbent for the extrication of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), a novel carbon nanotube doped with camphor: decanoic acid deep eutectic solvent was synthesized and applied as a packing material for the pipette-tip micro solid phase extraction sorbent of 6-MP from tap, wastewater and seawater samples before its spectrophotometric determination. Characteristics and structure of this adsorbent was fully investigated. Factors affecting extraction, including type and volume of the eluent, ionic strength and pH of the sample solution, amount of adsorbent, and number of extraction and elution cycles were optimized using one-factor-at-a-time and response surface methodologies. The method was found to be linear in the range of 1 to 1000 µg/L with a limit of detection and quantification of 0.2 and 0.7 µg/L, respectively. Reproducibility as relative standard deviation was better than 4.6%.

Conclusion

Application of deep eutectic solvent modified carbon nanotube indicated suitable microextraction results and good potential for rapid extraction of trace amounts of 6-MP from different aqueous samples. The amount of sample required for the analysis was less than 10 mL and only 1.5 mg of the adsorbent was used. The total analysis time, including extraction was less than 15 min and the adsorbent could be used for at least 10 times, without significantly losing its adsorption ability. Compared to using unmodified usual carbon nanotubes, deep eutectic solvent doped carbon nanotubes showed 19.8% higher extraction ability.
Whole-brain connections of glutamatergic neurons in the mouse lateral habenula in both sexes
Authors: Huang Hongren , Liu Xue , Wang Liping , Wang Feng
Published: April 2024

Background

The lateral habenula (LHb) is an epithalamus nucleus that is evolutionarily conserved and involved in various physiological functions, such as encoding value signals, integrating emotional information, and regulating related behaviors. The cells in the LHb are predominantly glutamatergic and have heterogeneous functions in response to different stimuli. The circuitry connections of the LHb glutamatergic neurons play a crucial role in integrating a wide range of events. However, the circuitry connections of LHb glutamatergic neurons in both sexes have not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods

In this study, we injected Cre-dependent retrograde trace virus and anterograde synaptophysin-labeling virus into the LHb of adult male and female Vglut2-ires-Cre mice, respectively. We then quantitatively analyzed the input and output of the LHb glutamatergic connections in both the ipsilateral and contralateral whole brain.

Results

Our findings showed that the inputs to LHbvGlut2 neurons come from more than 30 brain subregions, including the cortex, striatum, pallidum, thalamus, hypothalamus, midbrain, pons, medulla, and cerebellum with no significant differences between males and females. The outputs of LHbvGlut2 neurons targeted eight large brain regions, primarily focusing on the midbrain and pons nuclei, with distinct features in presynaptic bouton across different brain subregions. While correlation and cluster analysis revealed differences in input and collateral projection features, the input-output connection pattern of LHbvGlut2 neurons in both sexes was highly similar.

Conclusions

This study provides a systematic and comprehensive analysis of the input and output connections of LHbvGlut2 neurons in male and female mice, shedding light on the anatomical architecture of these specific cell types in the mouse LHb. This structural understanding can help guide further investigations into the complex functions of the LHb.
η-Stability for stochastic functional differential equation driven by time-changed Brownian motion
Authors: He Xianping , Zhang Yaru , Wang Yue , Li Zhi , Xu Liping
Published: April 2024

This manuscript focuses on a class of stochastic functional differential equations driven by time-changed Brownian motion. By utilizing the Lyapunov method, we capture some sufficient conditions to ensure that the solution for the considered equation is η-stable in the pth moment sense. Subsequently, we present some new criteria of the η-stability in mean square by using time-changed Itô formula and proof by contradiction. Finally, we provide some examples to demonstrate the effectiveness of our main results.
Factors influencing the commissioning and implementation of health and social care interventions for people with dementia: commissioner and stakeholder perspectives
Authors: Tucker Rachael , Vickers Robert , Adams Emma J. , Burgon Clare , Lock Juliette , Goldberg Sarah E. , Gladman John , Masud Tahir , Orton Elizabeth , Timmons Stephen , Harwood Rowan H.
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite several interventions demonstrating benefit to people living with dementia and their caregivers, few have been translated and implemented in routine clinical practice. There is limited evidence of the barriers and facilitators for commissioning and implementing health and social care interventions for people living with dementia. The aim of the current study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to commissioning and implementing health and social care interventions for people with dementia, using a dementia friendly exercise and physical activity-based intervention (PrAISED [Promoting Activity, Stability and Independence in Early Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment]) as a case study.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders from a range of backgrounds including individuals from health and social care, local government, the voluntary and community sector, universities, and research centres in England. The Consolidated Framework for Intervention Research (CFIR) was used to guide the design and analysis.

Results

Fourteen participants took part, including commissioning managers, service managers, partnership managers, charity representatives, commercial research specialists, academics/researchers, and healthcare professionals. Data were represented in 33 constructs across the five CFIR domains. Participants identified a need for greater support for people diagnosed with dementia and their caregivers immediately post dementia diagnosis. Key barriers included cost/financing, the culture of commissioning, and available resources. Key facilitators included the adaptability of the intervention, cosmopolitanism/partnerships and connections, external policy and incentives, and the use of already existing (and untapped) workforces.

Conclusion

Several barriers and facilitators for commissioning and implementing health and social care interventions for people with dementia were identified which need to be addressed. Recommended actions to facilitate the commissioning and implementation of dementia friendly services are: 1) map out local needs, 2) evidence the intervention including effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, 3) create/utilise networks with stakeholders, and 4) plan required resources.
Light grazing alleviates aeolian erosion–deposition effects on microbial communities in a semi-arid grassland
Authors: Cui Mingming , Bao Biqi , Wu Yipu , Hui Nan , Li Mai-He , Wan Shiqiang , Han Shijie , Ren Feirong , Zheng Junqiang
Published: April 2024

Background

Soil erosion affects the stability of terrestrial ecosystems and ecosystem services by directly or indirectly impacting the cycling of soil materials and energy and reducing the fertility of grassland soils. However, research on microbial adaptation to grazing and soil erosion is limited, particularly in relation to grassland ecosystem restoration. Here, we assess microbial communities subjected to simulated soil erosion and grazing in a semi-arid grassland of Inner Mongolia, China.

Results

No significant change was observed in soil variables. However, the structure of the soil microbial community underwent significant changes as a result of soil erosion and soil erosion plus grazing, leading to a significant increase in the relative abundance of Cyanobacteria (116.80% vs 116.38%). Wind erosion and deposition contributed to an increase in the network complexity of soil bacterial and fungal communities. However, much of this effect was alleviated by grazing. Simultaneously, aeolian processes and grazing regulate soil microbial community assembly, leading to inconsistent patterns of change in bacterial and fungal communities. Under wind erosion and deposition, the relative contribution of deterministic processes (4.44% vs 31.11%) in bacterial communities increased, while the relative contribution of stochastic processes (2.23% vs 20%) in fungal communities reduced. Grazing resulted in a decrease in the relative contribution of deterministic processes (8.89%) in the bacterial community and an increase in the relative contribution of stochastic processes (8.89%) in the fungal community.

Conclusion

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the response of soil microbial communities to aeolian erosion–deposition and grazing in a semi-arid grassland. Our findings indicate that microbial communities in the semi-arid grassland show resistance to external disturbances and that light grazing mitigates the effects of aeolian erosion–deposition on microbial communities, which is essential for maintaining the stability and biodiversity of grassland ecosystems.
Exploring the role of histone deacetylase and histone deacetylase inhibitors in the context of multiple myeloma: mechanisms, therapeutic implications, and future perspectives
Authors: Pu Jingjing , Liu Ting , Wang Xuzhen , Sharma Amit , Schmidt-Wolf Ingo G. H. , Jiang Liping , Hou Jian
Published: April 2024

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) are a significant category of pharmaceuticals that have developed in the past two decades to treat multiple myeloma. Four drugs in this category have received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use: Panobinonstat (though canceled by the FDA in 2022), Vorinostat, Belinostat and Romidepsin. The efficacy of this group of drugs is attributed to the disruption of many processes involved in tumor growth through the inhibition of histone deacetylase, and this mode of action leads to significant anti-multiple myeloma (MM) activity. In MM, inhibition of histone deacetylase has many downstream consequences, including suppression of NF-κB signaling and HSP90, upregulation of cell cycle regulators (p21, p53), and downregulation of antiapoptotic proteins including Bcl-2. Furthermore, HDACis have a variety of direct and indirect oxidative effects on cellular DNA. HDAC inhibitors enhance normal immune function, thereby decreasing the proliferation of malignant plasma cells and promoting autophagy. The various biological effects of inhibiting histone deacetylase have a combined or additional impact when used alongside other chemotherapeutic and targeted drugs for multiple myeloma. This helps to decrease resistance to treatment. Combination treatment regimens that include HDACis have become an essential part of the therapy for multiple myeloma. These regimens incorporate drugs from other important classes of anti-myeloma agents, such as immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), conventional chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, and proteasome inhibitors. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety data pertaining to the currently approved histone deacetylase inhibitors, as well as an explanation of the crucial function of histone deacetylase in multiple myeloma and the characteristics of the different histone deacetylase inhibitors. Moreover, it provides a concise overview of the most recent developments in the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors for treating multiple myeloma, as well as potential future uses in treatment.
Hf-W dating of zircon in mesosiderite with high-pressure sintered standard
Authors: Sano Yuji , Koyama Yuta , Takahata Naoto , Matsuzaki Takuya , Koike Mizuho , Haba Makiko K. , Sakata Shuhei , Kuwahara Hideharu , Irifune Tetsuo
Published: April 2024

New standard zircons applicable to in situ analysis of Hf/W ratio by Nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometer (NanoSIMS) were prepared and applied to Hf-W dating of a differentiated meteorite classified as mesosiderite. The standard zircons were synthesized by high-pressure experiment from starting materials which were mixture of hafnium oxide, tungsten oxide and high-purity zircon powder. The mixed powders were stirred and pulverized by a high-energy ball mill. They were then sintered at 1000 °C and 6 GPa using multi-anvil apparatus. Homogeneity of Hf/W ratios of synthesized zircons was examined by SEM–EDS, EPMA, and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (LA-ICPMS). Hf/W ratios of the same zircons were measured by a NanoSIMS with 2 nA oxygen primary beam and mass resolving power of 10,000. The relative sensitivity factor (RSF) of Hf/W ratio was determined by comparing zircon data measured by LA-ICPMS and NanoSIMS. Observed RSF (Hf/W) of zircon is 0.585 ± 0.180 (hereafter all error 2σ) consistent with 0.855 ± 0.468 of previous work within experimental error margin. The value is higher than observed RSF of glass matrix, 0.301 ± 0.062, and significantly higher than glass data of 0.21–0.22 in references. Based on the RSF, the Hf/W ratios of zircons extracted from mesosiderite “Asuka 882,023” were measured together with W isotopic compositions by NanoSIMS. Observed data in 180Hf/186W–182W/186W diagram are fitted by a straight line, yielding a slope (182Hf/180Hf) of 8.19 ± 3.50 × 10–6. This slope is converted into an absolute zircon Hf-W age of 4536.5+4.6–7.2 Ma using the age anchor of CV3 chondrite. This age agrees well with a reference value of 4532.0+11.4–20.8 Ma.
Both the scion and rootstock of grafted grapevines influence the rhizosphere and root endophyte microbiomes, but rootstocks have a greater impact
Authors: Lailheugue Vincent , Darriaut Romain , Tran Joseph , Morel Marine , Marguerit Elisa , Lauvergeat Virginie
Published: April 2024

Background

Soil microorganisms play an extensive role in the biogeochemical cycles providing the nutrients necessary for plant growth. Root-associated bacteria and fungi, originated from soil, are also known to influence host health. In response to environmental stresses, the plant roots exude specific molecules influencing the composition and functioning of the rhizospheric and root microbiomes. This response is host genotype-dependent and is affected by the soil microbiological and chemical properties. It is essential to unravel the influence of grapevine rootstock and scion genotypes on the composition of this microbiome, and to investigate this relationship with plant growth and adaptation to its environment. Here, the composition and the predicted functions of the microbiome of the root system were studied using metabarcoding on ten grapevine scion-rootstock combinations, in addition to plant growth and nutrition measurements.

Results

The rootstock genotype significantly influenced the diversity and the structure of the bacterial and fungal microbiome, as well as its predicted functioning in rhizosphere and root compartments when grafted with the same scion cultivar. Based on β-diversity analyses, 1103P rootstock showed distinct bacterial and fungal communities compared to the five others (RGM, SO4, 41B, 3309 C and Nemadex). The influence of the scion genotype was more variable depending on the community and the investigated compartment. Its contribution was primarily observed on the β-diversity measured for bacteria and fungi in both root system compartments, as well as for the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the rhizosphere. Significant correlations were established between microbial variables and the plant phenotype, as well as with the plant mineral status measured in the petioles and the roots.

Conclusion

These results shed light on the capacity of grapevine rootstock and scion genotypes to recruit different functional communities of microorganisms, which affect host growth and adaptation to the environment. Selecting rootstocks capable of associating with positive symbiotic microorganisms is an adaptation tool that can facilitate the move towards sustainable viticulture and help cope with environmental constraints.
Steady-state selection in multi-species driven diffusive systems
Authors: Cantini Luigi , Zahra Ali
Published: April 2024

We introduce a general method to determine the large-scale non-equilibrium steady-state properties of one-dimensional multi-species driven diffusive systems with open boundaries, generalizing thus the max-min current principle known for systems with a single type of particles. This method is based on the solution of the Riemann problem of the associated system of conservation laws. We demonstrate that the effective density of a reservoir depends not only on the corresponding boundary hopping rates but also on the dynamics of the entire system, emphasizing the interplay between bulk and reservoirs. We highlight the role of Riemann variables in establishing the phase diagram of such systems. We apply our method to three models of multi-species interacting particle systems and compare the theoretical predictions with numerical simulations.
The equivalences of community detection methods for bipartite networks
Authors: Wu Guolin , Wu Jinzhao , Gu Changgui , Yuan Yuan , Tang Haitao
Published: April 2024

Investigating the community structures of bipartite networks is a frequent topic of discussion in the ecological and social fields. The most widely used methods, as proposed by numerous academics from varying perspectives, include spectral graph partitioning, modularity, non-negative matrix factorization, and stochastic block model. In this paper, we demonstrate three equivalences among these four methods. i) Both Dhillon spectral graph partitioning and Barber modularity clustering are equivalent to solving for the matrix's left and right singular vectors after relaxing the discrete constraints. ii) The non-negative matrix factorization clustering is equivalent to the Dhillon spectral graph partitioning. iii) The bipartite stochastic block model is equivalent to the constraint-based NMF that uses K-L divergence as its cost function. These equivalences, obtained through rigorous mathematical derivations, will aid in the future development of efficient algorithms for community detection in bipartite networks.
Do Iliac Screws Placed Close to the Sciatic Notch Have Greater Pullout Strength?
Authors: Chanbour Hani , Roth Steven G. , Chen Jeffrey W. , Uppuganti Sasidhar , Nyman Jeffry S. , Ali Mir Amaan , Bonfield Christopher M. , Abtahi Amir M. , Stephens Byron F. , Zuckerman Scott L.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Optimal iliac screw position in relation to the sciatic notch remains unknown. In 12 cadavers undergoing S2 alar-iliac (S2AI) screw placement, we tested the pullout strength of screws placed in proximity to the sciatic notch (≤5 mm) vs farther away from the sciatic notch (>5 mm).

METHODS:

A biomechanical, cadaver-based study was performed on 12 cadavers undergoing bilateral S2AI screw insertion. The position of the S2AI screw regarding the sciatic notch was dichotomized as ≤5 mm from the sciatic notch on the right side and >5 mm on the left side, confirmed using c-arm fluoroscopy. The primary outcome was the pullout strength of the screw (N). Secondary outcomes were stiffness (N/mm), yield force (N), and work to failure (N mm). Ischial tuberosity was embedded into polymethyl methacrylate and secured to a custom 3-axis vise grip mounted to a 14.5-kN load cell. Pullout testing was performed at 5 mm/min. Force and displacement data were collected at 100 Hz and evaluated using MATLAB. The Mann–Whitney test was performed.

RESULTS:

Of 24 S2AI screws, 3 screws could not be tested because of cement–bone interface failure. A positive though nonsignificant trend of screw pullout strength was found for screws close to the notch compared with those farther from the notch (861.8 ± 340.7 vs 778.7 ± 350.8 N, P = .859). Similarly, screws close to the notch demonstrated a higher trend of stiffness (149.4 ± 145.4 vs 111.34 ± 128.2 N/mm, P = .320) and force to yield (806.9 ± 352.0 vs 618.6 ± 342.9 N, P = .455). Conversely, screws farther from the notch had a higher but similarly nonsignificant area under the force–displacement curve (10 867.0 ± 9565.0 vs 14 196.6 ± 9578.3 N mm, P = .455), which might be due to excess sheer/translation force that could not be reliably quantified.

CONCLUSION:

Although placing S2AI screws ≤5 mm of the sciatic notch provided stronger fixation in 3 of 4 biomechanical testing categories, these results were not statistically significant. Therefore, placing S2AI screws ≤5 mm of the sciatic notch did not provide stronger fixation.
Διερεύνηση των πρωτεϊνικών αλληλεπιδράσεων που εξαρτώνται από τη φωσφορυλίωση του επαγόμενου από την υποξία παράγοντα HIF-1α και του ρόλου τους στην προσαρμογή των καρκινικών κυττάρων στην υποξία
Authors: Αρσένη Χριστίνα
Published: April 2024

Ο επαγόμενος από την υποξία παράγοντας-1 (HIF-1) είναι ο βασικός μεταγραφικός μεσολαβητής της κυτταρικής απόκρισης στην υποξία. Η ρύθμιση της HIF-1α υπομονάδας του εκτός από το οξυγόνο ρυθμίζεται και από ένα μεγάλο αριθμό μετα-μεταφραστικών τροποποιήσεων, όπως η φωσφορυλίωση. Είναι αξιοσημείωτο ότι δύο τροποποιήσεις που είχαν ταυτοποιηθεί στο εργαστήριο μας έχουν αντίθετο αποτέλεσμα στη δράση του HIF-1. Η φωσφορυλίωση του HIF-1α από την κινάση πρωτεϊνών CK1δ μειώνει την ενεργότητα του HIF-1. Αντίθετα, η φωσφορυλίωση από τις ERK1/2 επιτρέπει τη συσσώρευση του HIF-1α στον πυρήνα και την ενίσχυση της δραστικότητας του HIF-1. Η παρούσα εργασία εστιάστηκε στα ακόλουθα ερωτήματα: 1) Ρυθμίζει η φωσφορυλίωση από τις ERK1/2 την αλληλεπίδραση του HIF-1α με άλλες πρωτεΐνες και την έκφραση πρωτεϊνών σε συνθήκες υποξίας; 2) Πώς δύο ανταγωνιστικές τροποποιήσεις (από τις ERK1/2 και τη CK1δ) ρυθμίζουν ταυτόχρονα τη λειτουργία του HIF-1α; Για να απαντηθούν τα ερωτήματα, δημιουργήθηκαν HIF1A-/- σειρές που δεν εκφράζουν τον ενδογενή HIF-1α, οι οποίες με σταθερή διαμόλυνση εκφράζουν τις μορφές του HIF-1α που φέρουν μεταλλάξεις στις θέσεις φωσφορυλίωσης από τις ERK1/2. Χρησιμοποιώντας τα κύτταρα αυτά, δείχθηκε ότι η έκφραση του HIF-1α και ειδικότερα η φωσφορυλίωση του από τις ERK1/2 είναι κρίσιμα γεγονότα για την επιβίωση των κυττάρων στην υποξία, καθώς η τροποποίηση αυτή επηρεάζει τις πρωτεϊνικές αλληλεπιδράσεις του HIF-1α στη χρωματίνη. Όσον αφορά το δεύτερο ερώτημα, η έκφραση συνδυαστικών μεταλλαγμάτων του HIF-1α στις θέσεις φωσφορυλίωσης από τις δύο κινάσες υπέδειξε ότι στην πραγματικότητα, κάθε στιγμή στο κύτταρο, υπάρχουν διακριτά κλάσματα του HIF-1α που είναι φωσφορυλιωμένα από την κάθε κινάση και εξυπηρετούν τις διαφορετικές λειτουργίες του HIF-1α. Εξετάζοντας περαιτέρω τις μεταλλαγμένες HIF-1α μορφές που εντοπίζονται εκτός πυρήνα, δείχθηκε ότι η μίμηση της φωσφορυλίωσης του HIF-1α από την CK1δ οδήγησε στη μετακίνηση της μη πυρηνικής μορφής του HIF-1α από τα μιτοχόνδρια προς τους μικροσωληνίσκους. Παράλληλα, δείχθηκε ότι, η ενδογενής πρωτεΐνη εντοπίζεται στους μικροσωληνίσκους της μιτωτικής ατράκτου αλληλεπιδρώντας με την τουμπουλίνη, μόνο όταν η CK1δ είναι ενεργή. Αυτό έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη συμμετρική κατανομή του HIF-1α στους δύο νέους πυρήνες των θυγατρικών κυττάρων, αποτελώντας ένα νέο μηχανισμό ρύθμισης του HIF-1α από τη φωσφορυλίωση.
Η ρητορική των νομικών παπυρικών κειμένων από την εποχή του Αυγούστου έως την ύστερη αρχαιότητα
Authors: Κόλβερης Νικόλαος
Published: April 2024

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζει τη ρητορική των νομικών παπυρικών κειμένων που συντάχθηκαν από την εποχή του Αυγούστου έως την ύστερη αρχαιότητα. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψιν τη νομική χρησιμότητα των δομικών μερών, των ρητρών και των φορμουλαϊκών εκφράσεων των νομικών εγγράφων παρουσιάζεται η συμβολή της δομής και της γλώσσας τους στη ρητορική σύνθεση του περιεχομένου τους. Ειδικότερα, από την εξέταση των δομικών μερών αναδεικνύεται η ρητορικότητα του συνδυασμού τους, ο οποίος έχει τις ρίζες του σε μία πανάρχαια στρατηγική πειθούς. Σε γλωσσικό επίπεδο γίνεται ανάλυση των υφολογικών στοιχείων που εντοπίζονται σε νομικά έγγραφα κυρίως της βυζαντινής περιόδου, μέσα από την οποία γίνεται αντιληπτή η ψυχολογική κατάσταση των συμβολαιογράφων αλλά και των συμβαλλομένων μερών, όσον αφορά στην έκβαση της δικαιοπραξίας. Η αίσθηση της αβεβαιότητας που κυριαρχεί στις έννομες σχέσεις των ιδιωτών καταπολεμάται μέσω της ρητορικής.
Ανάπτυξη στοχαστικού μοντέλου σύλληψης κεραυνού και εφαρμογές του σε συστήματα αντικεραυνικής προστασίας
Authors: Ιωαννίδης Αλέξιος
Published: April 2024

Σκοπός της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής αποτέλεσε η ανάπτυξη ενός στοχαστικού μοντέλου σύλληψης του κεραυνού στο περιβάλλον του λογισμικού MATLAB και η συστηματική εφαρμογή του στην αξιολόγηση της κεραυνικής συμπεριφοράς συστημάτων ηλεκτρικής ενέργειας. Οι τιμές των βασικών παραμέτρων του μοντέλου επιλέχθηκαν στη βάση της φυσικής που διέπει το φαινόμενο σύλληψης του κεραυνού σύμφωνα με σύγχρονες μετρήσεις και παρατηρήσεις πεδίου. Το στοχαστικό μοντέλο λαμβάνει υπόψη παραμέτρους που αμελούνται από τα υπάρχοντα ηλεκτρογεωμετρικά μοντέλα και μοντέλα προόδου του leader των διεθνών προτύπων που σχετίζονται με: α) τη στοχαστική πρόοδο της κατερχόμενης εκκένωσης που χαρακτηρίζεται από φαινόμενα διακλαδώσεων και δαιδαλώδους συμπεριφοράς, β) τη γεωμετρία των αντικειμένων και την επίδραση των γειτνιαζόντων αντικειμένων, γ) την πολικότητα του κεραυνικού πλήγματος, δ) την έναυση και πρόοδο πολλαπλών ανερχόμενων εκκενώσεων καθώς και τον ανταγωνιστικό χαρακτήρα μεταξύ τους και την αλληλεπίδραση με τον κατερχόμενο leader και ε) κριτήρια έναυσης και προόδου στη βάση της φυσικής που διέπει τους κατερχόμενους και ανερχόμενους leader. Πραγματοποιήθηκε σύγκριση του στοχαστικού μοντέλου με αλλά μοντέλα από τη διεθνή βιβλιογραφία καθώς και με σύγχρονα δεδομένα πεδίου, σχετικά με την πρόοδο και σύλληψη των κεραυνικών εκκενώσεων, το ηλεκτρικό πεδίο στην επιφάνεια του εδάφους και τις βασικές παραμέτρους που χρησιμοποιούνται για το σχεδιασμό συστημάτων αντικεραυνικής προστασίας, με σκοπό την αξιολόγηση και την επαλήθευση του μοντέλου. Τα αποτελέσματα βρέθηκαν να είναι σε ικανοποιητική συμφωνία με τα δεδομένα πεδίου. Προτάθηκαν γενικευμένες μεθοδολογίες εκτίμησης της συχνότητας κεραυνικών σφαλμάτων υποσταθμών υψηλής τάσης και εναέριων γραμμών μεταφοράς στη βάση των αποτελεσμάτων του στοχαστικού μοντέλου και εφαρμόστηκαν σε τυπικούς υποσταθμούς καθώς και σε HVAC και HVDC γραμμές μεταφοράς. Οι μεθοδολογίες αυτές λαμβάνουν υπόψη την κεραυνική δραστηριότητα στην υπό εξέταση περιοχή στη βάση μιας πιθανοκρατικής προσέγγισης σε συνδυασμό με προσομοιώσεις μεταβατικών καταστάσεων για τον υπολογισμό των κρίσιμων ρευμάτων διάσπασης της μόνωσης. Με βάση τα παραπάνω, μπορούν να προβλεφθούν ικανοποιητικά σφάλματα θωράκισης σε υποσταθμούς και γραμμές μεταφοράς που δε μπορούν να προβλεφθούν από τα συμβατικά ηλεκτρογεωμετρικά μοντέλα που υιοθετούνται από τα αντίστοιχα διεθνή πρότυπα. Χαρακτηριστικό παράδειγμα αποτελούν καταγεγραμμένα σφάλματα θωράκισης σε γραμμές μεταφοράς 500 kV με αρνητική γωνία θωράκισης στην Ιαπωνία που αποτελούν συνεχή αντικείμενο μελέτης και ανάλυσης την τελευταία δεκαετία από την επιστημονική κοινότητα.
A census-based health facility assessment datasets for effective review of the Lagos State Health Scheme
Authors: Obubu Maxwell , Chuku Nkata , Ananaba Alozie , Diallo Rodio , Sadiq Firdausi Umar , Sambo Emmanuel , Kolade Oluwatosin , Oyekanmi Tolulope , Olaosebikan Kehinde , Serrano Oluwafemi
Published: April 2024

This data note provides details of a research database containing 1,256 health facilities in the twenty (20) local government areas of Lagos State, Nigeria. The health facility assessment data was collected across eight domains namely: human resources, basic infrastructure, basic medical equipment and infection prevention, health services in health facilities, medical supplies and commodities, health insurance coverage, financial management system, and clinical governance. The purpose of this publication is to describe the technical approach and methodology adopted for external researchers who may be interested in using them.
Studies on variability in mode of infection by the isolates of leaf pathogens isolated from diseased leaves of Musa paradisiaca from Uttar Dinajpur District
Authors: Das Debarati , Chowhan Papan , Mandal Parimal , Chakraborty Arka Pratim
Published: April 2024

Banana is (Musa sp) one of the most exoteric and materialistic fruit crop of many tropical and subtropical areas in India. Banana leaf diseases, caused by several fungal pathogens are one of the major diseases. Among the fungi causing banana leaf diseases, Curvularia sp/C. lunata is one of the main causal organisms causing leaf spot disease in banana plant. Two fungal isolates- MUSLF-2, MUSLF-3 and one fungal isolate- MUSLF-1 were isolated from the infected leaf from Ramganj and Gotgaon locations.  Based on light microscopic and scanning electron microscopic studies, MUSLF-2 and MUSLF-3 were identified as Curvularia sp. After Koch’s postulate, three fungal isolates- MUSLF-2, MUSLF-3 [Curvularia sp] and MUSLF-1 were applied in banana field along with foliar spray of spore suspensions. The symptoms were similar to those observed in the in vitro detached leaf inoculation technique.

The present research work depicts about the severity of leaf spot diseases of Musa paradisiaca and the nature of mode of infections exhibited by the fungal pathogens.
Validation and in vivo characterization of research antibodies for Moesin, CD44, Midkine, and sFRP-1.
Authors: Doolen Suzanne , Ayoubi Riham , Laflamme Carl , Betarbet Ranjita , Zoeller Elizabeth , Williams Sean-Paul G. , Fu Haian , Levey Allan I. , Sukoff Rizzo S. J.
Published: April 2024

Background A major goal of the Target Enablement to Accelerate Therapy Development for Alzheimer’s disease (TREAT-AD) program is to develop and identify high-quality tools to test target or mechanistic hypotheses. As part of this initiative, it is important that commercial reagents including research antibodies being used to interrogate drug targets have confirmed validation data in knock-out cell lines. Ideally, these antibodies should also have utility for both in vitro and in vivo studies such that the levels of target proteins in target tissues can be quantified. Methods We evaluated commercial antibodies against TREAT-AD protein targets Moesin (Uniprot ID: P26038), CD44 (Uniprot ID: P16070), Midkine (Uniprot ID: P21741) and Secreted frizzled-related protein 1, referred to as “sFRP-1” (sFRP-1; Uniprot ID: Q8N474). Moesin, Midkine and sFRP-1, that were confirmed as selective based on data in knock-out cell lines. Western blot analysis was used to compare protein levels in brain homogenates from a mouse model with AD-relevant pathology (5XFAD) versus age-matched C57BL/6J control mice. Results Anti-Moesin ab52490 reacted in mouse brain homogenate with a predicted molecular weight of 68 kDa. Moesin protein expression was 2.8 times higher in 5xFAD compared to WT. Anti-CD44 ab189524 reacted with a band at the predicted size of 82 kDa. CD44 protein expression was 1.9 times higher in 5xFAD compared to WT. Anti-Midkine AF7769 reacted with a band ~16 kDa and a 17.8 times greater expression in 5xFAD compared to WT. Anti-sFRP-1 ab267466 reacted with a band at 35 kDa as predicted. sFRP-1 protein expression was 11.9 times greater in 5xFAD compared to WT. Conclusions These data confirm the utility of these selective commercially available antibodies against Moesin, CD44, Midkine, and sFRP-1 for in vivo studies in mice and provide insight into the use of 5XFAD mice for in vivo target engagement studies for these target proteins.
Traditional medicine in Incahuasi: An ethnobotanical study
Authors: Morales Ramos Jorge Guillermo , León-Figueroa Darwin A. , Picón Pérez María Susana , Arbulú Ballesteros Marco Agustín , Llontop Ynga Enrique Guillermo , Coaguila Cusicanqui Luis A. , Morales Ramírez Sofía Mariagracia , Chirinos Ríos Carlos Alberto
Published: April 2024

Introduction Understanding the use of medicinal plants as herbal medicines is considered essential for the survival and continuity of humanity. Since ancient times, the origin and development of natural and traditional medicine have been intrinsically linked to humanity struggle for survival. Nowadays, ethnobotanical studies are employed as a tool for the preservation and conservation not only of taxonomic biodiversity but also of cultural biodiversity. Methodology A descriptive research with a quantitative, non-experimental cross-sectional design was carried out. The study was conducted in six Quechua-speaking communities in the district of Incahuasi (3,000 meters above sea level), selected for convenience considering factors such as altitude, accessibility, and proximity to the city. A questionnaire was administered to 32 residents from the communities, who shared their knowledge about medicinal plants, providing relevant information about them. The gender of the participants was considered because men and women use traditional medicine and the knowledge of them is transmitted from parents to children. Results During the study, a total of 46 medicinal species were recorded, belonging to 42 genera and 22 botanical families. The most representative medicinal families used by the informants of the communities were Asteraceae (30.4%) and Lamiaceae (15.2%). It is also worth mentioning the genera Salvia and Baccharis, with three and two species respectively, which are commonly used to treat various ailments and diseases. Conclusions Ethnobotanical information was collected on the medicinal plants used by the community members of the selected communities in Incahuasi, and the corresponding data were recorded. A total of 46 plants were collected, with the majority belonging to the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families.
Case Report : Physiotherapy management of maternal obstetric palsy in a Nigerian teaching hospital
Authors: Onyekere Chukwuebuka Prince , Jonathan Blessing Nkiruka , Igwesi-Chidobe Chinonso Nwamaka
Published: April 2024

Introduction Maternal obstetric palsy is a rare nerve injury to all or part of the lumbosacral plexus with signs and symptoms becoming evident during labour or after childbirth. Motor and sensory involvement affect dermatomes and lower limb muscle group(s). Physiotherapy is indicated for the clinical presentations of maternal obstetric palsy, but research in this area is limited. The purpose of this case report was to highlight the application of physiotherapy in the management of the clinical presentations of maternal obstetric palsy. Clinical description A 38-year-old female patient presented with severe pain (verbal pain rating scale [VPRS]: 10/10), intermittent muscle spasm, loss of sensation, weakness of lower limb muscle groups (Oxford Muscle Grading [OMG]: ≤2/5) and loss of lower limb function after childbirth following prolonged obstructed labour. The patient was diagnosed with maternal obstetric palsy after detailed history and physical examinations. Interventions and outcomes Transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation and muscle strengthening exercises were administered immediately post-delivery. Duration of treatment was eight weeks. The patient’s pain stopped (VPRS= 0/10), muscle spasm reduced, with improved muscle strength (OMG≥ 4/5) and lower limb function. Conclusion Early physiotherapy reduced pain intensity and muscle spasm, and increased muscle strength and function in a patient with maternal obstetric palsy.
A cross-sectional observational study on quality assurance and radiation safety in interventional radiology
Authors: Chaple Pawan , Luhariya Anurag
Published: April 2024

Background Interventional Radiology (IR) is anticipated to play an increasingly pivotal role in modern healthcare, providing vital minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment. As the frequency and complexity of IR procedures continue to evolve, maintaining impeccable standards in quality assurance (QA) and radiation safety becomes paramount. This study is designed to assess prevailing QA practices comprehensively, gauge adherence to forthcoming radiation safety guidelines, and proactively identify areas primed for advancement within diverse interventional radiology units. Methods Employing a prospective cross-sectional observational design on 48 health professionals, an array of healthcare facilities, each equipped with a state-of-the-art IR unit, will be purposefully selected. The study cohort will encompass diverse participants, including interventional radiologists, radiologic technologists, nurses, and medical physicists. The study will be conducted in the Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital’s facilities equipped with interventional radiology units. Analysis will be done by using R studio version 4.3.1 by using t-test and chi-square. Expected results The anticipated quantitative data analysis will undoubtedly yield nuanced insights into the participants’ multifaceted roles, experiences, and prospective perceptions concerning QA and radiation safety practices. In equal measure, the quantitative analysis is poised to uncover recurring thematic strands about the efficacy of current QA frameworks, radiation safety protocols, and the multifarious challenges envisaged in maintaining elevated standards. Study implication As this study unfolds, it will illuminate the evolving landscape of QA and radiation safety intrinsic to interventional radiology. This study is poised to guide future practice improvement, refine training paradigms, and shape forthcoming policies within this dynamic field by casting a discerning eye on potential gaps and imminent challenges. The conclusive insights are anticipated to underscore the enduring commitment required to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare professionals, concurrently fostering the pioneering trajectory of interventional radiology procedures.
Immigrants are crucial to U.S. Health System Resilience
Authors: Duque Maria , Clark-Ginsberg Aaron , J. Schwartz Seth
Published: April 2024

A polycrisis of climate and non-climate related shocks and stresses are straining U.S. health systems and affecting mental health. In contrast to negative rhetoric surrounding immigrants and immigration, immigrants make contributions that are fundamental to ensuring health system resilience. As in many other countries, in the United States foreign born compensate for health care worker shortages; help subsidize health programs with their labor; and support response, recovery, and rebuilding following disaster. However, immigrants are often trapped in political inflammatory narratives and public’s clashing sentiments. To harness the power of immigrants’ contributions in facilitating health system resilience, policies that help pair the pool of global talent with the needs of America’s public health systems are needed. This may require redressing harmful policies that reduce participation on the labor pool and crafting more humane policies that encourage migration. Doing so may result in a stronger health system better able to weather converging crises.