bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stem cells ameliorate neurotrauma-induced visual disturbances and retinopathy via broad normalization of the β-catenin-related signaling pathway
Authors: Hwang Suan , Lee Chia-Yi , Tseng Chung-Hsin , Wu Ting-Feng , Chao Pi-Yu , Liu Wen-Pin , Lu Anthony , Yeh Chao-Hung , Chang Ching-Ping , Chio Chung-Ching , Kuo Shu-Chun
Published: February 2024

To determine the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) on brain trauma-induced retinopathy both in vivo and in vitro. Repeated traumatic brain injury (TBI) was induced by lateral fluid percussion in adult male Wistar rats under general anesthesia. The sham and TBI groups received an intravenous dose of normal saline (1 mL/kg of body weight) or MSC (4 × 106 cells/ml/kg) on day 3 after surgery, respectively. The visual cliff method and modified neurological severity score were used to test the visual and neurobehavioral function of rats. Thirty-five days after TBI, rats were euthanized, and histochemical analyses were conducted. Cultured R28 cells were subjected to a stretch injury (SI) and then cocultured with MSC. The R28 cell viability, apoptosis, mitochondria membrane potential, radical oxygen species (ROS) generation, protein signaling, and growth factors composition were measured. Rats, 35 days post-TBI, displayed both visual disturbances and neurobehavioral deficits. Simultaneously, reduced RGC layer thickness, decreased cell numbers, increased RGC apoptosis, and decreased b-catenin-containing neurons were noted. Our in vitro studies further demonstrated that SI caused reduced cell viability, neuronal apoptosis and autophagy, mitochondria distress, increased intracellular ROS contents, and decreased b-catenin expression in cultured R28. Intravenous administration of MSC significantly ameliorated the visual disturbance and retinopathies in TBI rats. Topical application of MSC significantly attenuated stretch injury-induced cell stress responses in cultured RGC. MSC therapy might ameliorate visual disturbances and retinopathies in rats with neurotrauma via broad normalization of retinal b-catenin-related signaling pathways.
Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) Adherence Barriers of Pregnant Women and New Mothers Living with HIV in Greater Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Kelepile Matlhogonolo , Grady Sue C. , Hughes Anne K.
Published: February 2024

In 2021 Botswana was certified with a silver-tiered status by the World Health Organization, as it reduced mother-to-child HIV transmission to under 5%, provided antenatal care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) to over 90% of pregnant women, and attained a HIV case rate of less than 500 cases per 100,000 live births. This study aims to assist Botswana in obtaining gold-tier status by providing insights into stressors associated with new motherhood for women living with HIV and how these stressors contribute to Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) non-adherence in Greater Gaborone. A mixed-methods approach included surveying a sample of pregnant women (n = 14) and new mothers (n = 53) attending 21 ART clinics. Cox proportional hazard models examined the hypothesis “with increasing time diagnosis to ART exposure, the likelihood of PMTCT non-adherence will increase” particularly for women experiencing individual stressors exacerbated by extreme heat and water rationing. Content analysis was used to interpret qualitative findings. Results show that a majority of pregnant women and new mothers had partners who were also HIV+ (n = 45) and some women did not disclose (n = 12) or were unsure if their partner (n = 10) knew of their HIV status. For mothers who were unemployed and dependent upon their partner for economic security, extreme heat and water rationing were barriers to personal care and psychological well-being. Public health messaging that helps pregnant women and new mothers communicate the sensitive topic of HIV with their partner is needed, and clinics should ensure water availability to promote clinic attendance and PMTCT adherence.
Assessing Genetic Causality of Periodontal Disease and Atrial Fibrillation by Potential Mediators: A Two-Step Mediating Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Lian Chengzhong , Zhang Xiaohan , Li Jiaran , Shi Jing , Shi Shuqing , Wang Lianxin , Guo Zezhen , Liu Naixu , Wang Huan , Shi Shuai , Hu Yuanhui , Du Bai
Published: February 2024

Background
The independent causality of periodontal disease on atrial fibrillation (AF) and the modifiable risk factors mediating the pathogenesis remain unclear.
Method
First, to confirm the independent causality, this study underwent the bidirectional and multivariable Mendelian Randomization (MR) underlying the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of periodontal disease (87497 cases/259234 controls) from the FinnGen and AF (55114 cases/482295 controls) from AFGen. Then, the two-step Mendelian randomization evaluated the mediating role and proportions of 25 candidate factors.
Result
Periodontal disease was associated with a higher risk of AF with an odds ratio of 1.16 ([95% CI, 1.027–1.314], p = 0.017), independently of dental caries and pulp and periapical disease. Reversely, there is no causation of AF on periodontal disease status. Using the two-step MR, we identified 5 out of 25 candidate mediators as statistically significant; sorted by the mediation proportion, including weight (30.3%), IL-17 (17.2%), TNF (14.08%), coronary atherosclerosis (13.4%) and hypertension (11.6%).
Conclusion
Our findings preliminarily demonstrated the genetic causality between periodontal disease and atrial fibrillation. For patients suffering from periodontal disease status, it is noted that maintaining oral hygiene, accepting standardized periodontal treatment, and managing body weight are crucial targets for controlling the disease progression towards AF.
RETRACTED: LINC00623 play important roles in Pan-cancer and Thyroid papillary cancer
Authors: Wang Wenqin , Zhang Li , Liang Guangyuan , Wang YongMei , Li Xiangzhi
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Integrated HIV and Hypertension Care in South Africa
Authors: Johnson Leslie C.M. , Khan Suha H. , Ali Mohammed K. , Galaviz Karla I. , Waseem Fatima , Ordóñez Claudia E. , Siedner Mark J. , Nyatela Athini , Marconi Vincent C. , Lalla-Edward Samanta T
Published: February 2024

Background
The burden of hypertension among people with HIV is high, particularly in low-and middle-income countries, yet gaps in hypertension screening and care in these settings persist. The objective of this study was to identify facilitators of and barriers to hypertension screening, treatment, and management among people with HIV seeking treatment in primary care clinics in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Methods
Using a cross-sectional study design, data were collected via interviews (n = 53) with people with HIV and hypertension and clinic managers and focus group discussions (n = 9) with clinic staff. A qualitative framework analysis approach guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework was used to identify and compare determinants of hypertension care across different stakeholder groups.
Results
Data from clinic staff and managers generated three themes characterizing facilitators of and barriers to the adoption and implementation of hypertension screening and treatment: 1) clinics have limited structural and operational capacity to support the implementation of integrated care models, 2) education and training on chronic care guidelines is inconsistent and often lacking across clinics, and 3) clinicians have the goal of enhancing chronic care within their clinics but first need to advocate for health system characteristics that will sustainably support integrated care. Patient data generated three themes characterizing existing facilitators of and barriers to clinic attendance and chronic disease self-management: 1) the threat of hypertension-related morbidity and mortality as a motivator for lifestyle change, 2) the emotional toll of clinic’s logistical, staff, and resource challenges, and 3) hypertension self-management as a patchwork of informational and support sources. The main barriers to hypertension screening, treatment, and management were related to environmental resources and context (i.e., lack of enabling resources and siloed flow of clinic operations) the patients’ knowledge and emotions (i.e., lack of awareness about hypertension risk, fear, and frustration). Clinical actors and patients differed in perceived need to prioritize HIV versus hypertension care.
Conclusions
The convergence of multi-stakeholder data regarding barriers to hypertension screening, treatment, and management highlight key areas for improvement, where tailored implementation strategies may address challenges recognized by each stakeholder group.
National Health Insurance Scheme Enrolees’ Satisfaction with Quality of Care and Willingness to Retain Membership in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria: Implications for Community-Based Health Insurance uptake
Authors: Ibeneme Georgian Chiaka , Ugochukwu Chika , Ibeneme Sam Chidi , Nwosu Akachukwu Omumuagwula , Fortwengel Gerhard , Oko Constance Chioma , Okpua Nelson C.
Published: February 2024

Background;Low enrolment into National Health Insurance scheme is a barrier to universal health coverage in Nigeria and could be connected to consumer/enrolees’ satisfaction which is an important index of willingness to retain any service provider. Therefore, enrolees’ satisfaction with the quality of received healthcare services and willingness to retain membership of NHIS at a tertiary hospital in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was evaluated.Method:The embedded nested design was implemented under an integrative mixed-method approach to study 376 NHIS enrolees selected using a convenience sampling technique at Alex Ekwueme University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Researcher-developed questionnaire and interview guide were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using Z test, at two-tailed p < 0.05 while qualitative data were analysed thematically.Results:Proportion of satisfied enrolees (232, 61.70%) was higher than unsatisfied enrolees (Z= 6.42; p = <.0002 two-tailed; 95% CI= 0.16 – 0.30). Reasons for enrolees satisfaction were quick recovery, assurance of receiving unadulterated drugs, easy accessibility to specialized services, and significant healthcare expenditure reduction. Reasons for enrolees unsatisfaction were drug stock-out, poor drug quality, poor accessibility, arduous bureaucracy, poor Information quality and poor attitude of nurses. Proportion of enrolees willing to retain membership of NHIS (312, 61.70%) was higher than unwilling enrolees (18.233, p = <.0002 two-tailed; 95% CI= 0.60 – 0.71). Reasons for enrolees unwillingness to retain membership of NHIS include long waiting times, drug stock-out, arduous bureaucracy, and poor attitude of nursing personnel. There was a strong association between willingness to retain membership of NHIS and enrolees’ satisfaction with the quality of care received (X2= 121.14, df=1; Crammer’s V = 0.57; P<.0001).Conclusion:Most NHIS enrolees are satisfied, but some are unsatisfied as they are impacted by low institutional capacities and organizational weaknesses like long waiting times, drug stock-out, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and poor nurse attitudes, which also hindered their willingness to retain membership of the NHIS. Therefore, data on enrolee satisfaction with care quality is crucial for policy adjustments and preventing poor institutional governance and practices that could hinder NHIS membership retention or uptake.
Identifying the best reference gene for RT-qPCR analyses of the three-dimensional osteogenic differentiation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Okamoto Masakazu , Inagaki Yusuke , Okamura Kensuke , Uchihara Yoshinobu , Saito Kenichiro , Ogawa Munehiro , Kido Akira , Mori Eiichiro , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: February 2024

Reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is an essential tool for gene expression analysis; however, choosing appropriate reference genes for normalization is crucial to ensure data reliability. Most studies on osteogenic differentiation have had limited success in identifying optimal reference genes; to the best of our knowledge, no optimal reference genes in three-dimensional (3D) osteogenic differentiation culture experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have been identified. In this study, we aimed to identify stable reference genes that could be used for normalization in gene expression analyses during the 3D osteogenic differentiation of hiPSCs using an atelocollagen sponge as the scaffold. Four algorithms—ΔCt, BestKeeper, NormFinder, and geNorm—were used to evaluate the stability of 14 candidate reference genes. TATA box-binding protein, hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1, and 14-3-3 protein zeta polypeptide emerged as the most stable reference genes. In comparison, conventionally used reference genes (beta-2 microglobulin and beta-actin) ranked among those with low stability. We also demonstrated the successful 3D osteogenic differentiation of hiPSCs on the atelocollagen sponge. Our findings provide valuable insights into reference gene selection and bone tissue regeneration from hiPSCs, which will improve the treatment prospects for bone defects and other similar conditions in regenerative medicine.
Correlation between segmental Phase Angles and motor function of DMD children and predictive value of Phase angels for lower limb motor function loss
Authors: Hu Qin , Chen Xiaoyong , Luo Shaojie , Wang Yanhong , Fan Peicong , Wu Xiaona , Zhou Hui , Xu Huayan , Li Na , Cai Xiaotang
Published: February 2024

Background: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a prevalent X-linked recessive muscle degeneration disorder that involves the gradual loss of functional muscle mass. The Phase Angle (PhA) can indicate changes in cell membrane integrity and intercellular space. It has been recognized as a valuable tool for assessing disease severity and predicting patient outcomes. However, there is limited research on the application of PhA in children with neuromuscular diseases, including DMD.
Objective：we investigated the relationship between Phase Angle (PhA) and motor function in children with DMD. We specifically examined the correlation between segmental PhAs and motor function and evaluated the effectiveness of segmental PhAs as a measure for assessing motor function in DMD children
Method: 399 DMD patients were divided into loss of lower limb motor function group (n = 57) and preserve lower limb motor function group (n = 342). The correlation between PhA and motor function were analyzed through spearman correlation analysis. The predictive value of PhA and PhA combining age for lower limb motor function loss was analyzed by ROC curve.
Result: TR-PhA reaches its peak at 6 years old, while other PhAs reaches its peak at 5-6years old and subsequently declines over time. There was a significant correlation between PhAs and the NSAA score, with the strongest correlation observed in leg PhA (r=0.753, P<0.001). ROC curve was used and showed that PhAs (LA, RA, LL, RL, TR, and whole) can predict the loss of lower limb function in DMD children (AUC from 0.725 to 0.863).The corresponding cut-off PhA values were 2.55°, 2.95°, 2.65°, 2.55°, 4.25°, and 2.85°, respectively. Additionally, PhAs combined with age had more excellent predictive ability for lower limb function loss than PhAs((AUC from 0.929 to 0.951).
Conclusion: The time of peak of PhAs are earlier than NNSA score (peak at 6-7years old). PhAs in legs demonstrate the strongest correlation and highest predictive value for lower limb motor function loss. PhA could serve as a simple, fast, and non-invasive marker to predict the loss of lower limb motor function in DMD children.
Tagging polymorphisms in CTLA4 gene with esophageal squamous cell carcinomas: a case-control study
Authors: Tang Weifeng , Wang Jian , Liu Chao , Qiu Hao , Chen Shuchen , Hu Zhendong
Published: February 2024

Objective: To assess the role of Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA4) loci on ESCC risk.
Method: we recruited 829 ESCC cases and 1,522 healthy controls to explore the correlation of tagging polymorphisms in CTLA4gene with ESCC extensively.
Results: For rs16840252 C>T, rs733618 T>C, rs3087243 G>A, and rs231775 G>A loci in CTLA4, frequency of these genotypes in ESCC cases and controls was not different in overall comparison. Compared with rs3087243 GG in CTLA4, we found that there were significant differences in frequency of the rs3087243 GA and rs3087243 GA/AA between ESCC cases and controls in female subgroup (GA vs. GG: adjusted OR=1.50, P=0.038; GA/AA vs. GG: adjusted OR=1.54, P=0.024). CTLA4 haplotype analysis suggested that others haplotypes could increase the risk of ESCC with 2.05-fold (P=0.027). However, we found that locus in CTLA4 was not associated with the susceptibility of lymph node metastasis. Conclusion: Our investigation highlights that CTLA4 rs3087243 locus is associated with ESCC development in female subgroup.
Clinical profile of adult patients referred to congenital heart surgery; a single center experience in Egypt.
Authors: Samaan Amir Anwar , Mostafa Amir , AbdElAziz Osama , Shazly Mahmoud El , Lotfy Sherif , Abdrabou Mostafa M. , Hassan Mohamed , Elamragy Ahmed A.
Published: February 2024

Background
A major challenge facing adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) service in developing countries is the lack of adequate data on the disease burden and specific needs of this group. We aimed to describe ACHD patients in Egypt who need further surgical correction, their various presentations, and the types of surgeries required.
Methods
The study included ACHD patients considered for further surgical correction after a heart team discussion at a tertiary cardiac center in Egypt. Data about age, gender, presentation, functional capacity, resting oxygen saturation, diagnosis, previous intervention and its timing, and the type of surgery decided were collected.
Results
Over one year, 103 cases (49.5% males, mean age 23 years) were referred to surgery out of 134 cases discussed at the heart team committee. One-third of the patients (34%) were cyanotic, and the majority presented in NYHA functional class II (44.7%) and III (35.95%). More than half of the patients (56.3%) had a previous surgical or trans-catheter intervention with a median age of 4 years at the time of the first procedure. The most frequently encountered diagnoses were: Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF) (23.3%), atrial septal defect (ASD) (18.4%), double outlet right ventricle (11.6%), and transposition of great arteries (7.8%). Surgical procedures that were required most were: Fontan procedure (20.3%), surgical ASD closure (18.4%), surgical pulmonary valve replacement (14.5%), total ToF repair (9.7%), subaortic membrane resection (6.7%) and tricuspid valve surgery (5.8%).
Conclusion
The group of ACHD patients in Egypt who require further surgical correction is heterogeneous, with various presentations and needs. The required surgeries vary from simple to complex. An efficient ACHD program necessitates the collaboration of dedicated cardiologists, radiologists, and cardiothoracic surgeons who are familiar with the unique demands and difficulties of this patient group.
Molecular mechanisms of Rhizoma Dioscoreae in breast cancer treatment: a network pharmacology and experimental verification
Authors: Wang Jia , Gao Shilei , Zhang Lihan , Zhang Lu , Sun Xu , Li Huahua , Niu Hong , Ma Xuhui , Liu Huaimin
Published: February 2024

Background Breast cancer poses a significant threat on human health. Rhizoma Dioscoreae (RD), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has shown positive effect in breast cancer treatment; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown.
Methods We identified the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in RD and their potential targets using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Targets related to breast cancer were gathered from GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. We constructed RD API-gene interaction network using Cytoscape software. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) data were obtained from the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database. Key APIs and hub genes were screened via network topological parameters. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted. Molecular docking and in vitro experiments were performed to validate our network pharmacology findings.
Results We identified 12 APIs in RD and 28 genes overlapped between RD and breast cancer. Molecular docking showed stable binding between key ingredients and hub genes. Stigmasterol and diosgenin served as the most critical APIs. Further experimental findings demonstrated that RD inhibited breast cancer via downregulating HIF-1α, RELA, VEGFA, PGR, and NCOA1, critical in tumor angiogenesis and hormone-mediated signaling.
Conclusion RD might inhibit breast cancer angiogenesis and hormone-mediated oncogenesis by downregulating HIF-1α, RELA, VEGFA, PGR, and NCOA1, which provides more evidence for the application of RD in the management of breast cancer.
Reporting MRONJ as an Adverse Drug Reaction: An Oral Surgery Survey
Authors: Martin Katy , Martin Sarah
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a significant adverse drug reaction associated with anti-angiogenic and anti-resorptive medications. The aim of this survey was to establish the knowledge and understanding of the reporting of adverse drug reactions with a particular focus on MRONJ within the local department.
Methodology
An electronic survey was disseminated to dentists working in the Oral Surgery department within the Dental Division of Birmingham Community Healthcare Trust in November 2021. The survey consisted of 14 open and closed questions relating to the identification and reporting of MRONJ as an adverse drug reaction.
Results
Although 97% of participants had seen a patient with MRONJ, only 19% had reported an adverse drug reaction to any medication. Interestingly 27% of respondents felt that MRONJ should be classified as a ‘postoperative complication’ rather than an ‘adverse drug reaction’. 22% of participants were unaware of how to report an adverse drug reaction.
Conclusion
This survey acts as an important reminder to encourage both patients and dental professionals to consider reporting adverse drug reactions, including suspected MRONJ, to the MHRA. Reporting aids accurate national data collection, highlights risk and supports ongoing research in this area.
Monocytes enter microporous β-TCP ceramics
Authors: Waldmann Marco , Bohner Marc , Le Long-Quan , Baghnavi Anna , Riedel Bianca , Seidenstuecker Michael
Published: February 2024

β-TCP ceramics are versatile bone substitute materials and show many interactions with cells of the monocyte-macrophage-lineage. The possibility of monocytes entering microporous β-TCP ceramics has however not yet been researched. We used flow chambers to unidirectionally load BC, PRP or PPP into slice models of either 2 mm or 6 mm β-TCP. Immunofluorescence for CD68 and live/dead staining was performed after the loading process. Our results show that monocytes were present in a relevant number of PRP and BC slices representing the inside of our 2 mm slice model and also present on the actual inside of our 6 mm model. For PPP, monocytes were not found beyond the surface in either model. Our results indicate the possibility of a new and so far neglected constituent in β-TCP degradation, perhaps causing the process of ceramic degradation also starting from inside the ceramics as opposed to the current understanding. We also demonstrated flow chambers as a possible new in vitro model for interactions between blood and β-TCP.
The acceptability and effectiveness of artificial intelligence-based chatbot for hypertensive patients in community: protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: chen Ping , Li Yi , Zhang Xuxi , Feng Xinglin , Sun Xinying
Published: February 2024

Background
Chatbots can provide immediate assistance tailored to patients' needs, making them suitable for sustained accompanying interventions. Nevertheless, there is currently no evidence regarding their acceptability by hypertensive patients and the factors influencing the acceptability in the real-world. Existing evaluation scales often focus solely on the technology itself, overlooking the patients' perspective. Utilizing mixed methods can offer a more comprehensive exploration of influencing factors, laying the groundwork for the future integration of artificial intelligence in chronic disease management practices.
Methods
The mixed methods will provide a holistic view to understand the effectiveness and acceptability of the intervention. Participants will either receive the standard primary health care or obtain a chatbot speaker. The speaker can provide timely reminders, on-demand consultations, personalized data recording, knowledge broadcasts, as well as entertainment features such as telling jokes. The quantitative part will be conducted as a quasi-randomized controlled trial in community in Beijing. And the convergent design will be adopted. When patients use the speaker for 1 month, scales will be used to measure patients' intention to use the speaker. At the same time, semi-structured interviews will be conducted to explore patients' feelings and influencing factors of using speakers. Data on socio-demography, physical examination, blood pressure, acceptability and self-management behavior will be collected at baseline, as well as 1,3,6, and 12 months later. Furthermore, the cloud database will continuously collect patients’ interactions with the speaker. The primary outcome is the efficacy of the chatbot on blood pressure control. The secondary outcome includes the acceptability of the chatbot speaker and the changes of self-management behavior.
Discussion
Artificial intelligence-based chatbot speaker not only caters to patients' self-management needs at home but also effectively organizes intricate and detailed knowledge system for patients with hypertension through a knowledge graph. Patients can promptly access information that aligns with their specific requirements, promoting proactive self-management and playing a crucial role in disease management. This study will serve as a foundation for the application of artificial intelligence technology in chronic disease management, paving the way for further exploration on enhancing the communicative impact of artificial intelligence technology.
Trial registration:
Biomedical Ethics Committee of Peking University: IRB00001052-21106, 2021/10/14; Clinical Trials: ChiCTR2100050578,2021/08/29.
The Relationship between Social Participation and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: The Mediating Role of Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Zhang Chong , Xiong Juan , Luo Wenqi
Published: February 2024

Background
Cognitive impairments are commonly observed in older adults, and there is an increasing number of older adults experiencing cognitive difficulties. Social participation plays a crucial role in promoting active aging, but its relationship with the cognitive function of older adults still needs further confirmation.
Methods
Based on the panel data from the 5 waves of Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), this study uses fixed-effect model, propensity score matching and mediation analysis to explore the relationship between social participation and cognitive function in older adults
Results
After adjusting the confounders, social participation is positively associated with cognitive function in older adults (β = 1.65, P < 0.001). Specifically, self-entertainment-type social participation shows the strongest positive association (β = 1.09, P < 0.001), followed by household labor-type social participation (β = 0.58, P < 0.001), while the impact of group interaction-type social participation is the weakest (β = 0.47, P < 0.001). Activities of daily living (ADL) mediates the relationship between social participation and cognitive function in older adults, with the strongest mediating effect in the impact of household labor-type social participation.
Limitations
Our study focuses on Chinese participants, so the findings may not apply globally due to varying social habits. The research doesn't account for potentially confounding factors that affect cognitive function. The survey's limited social participation questions may not accurately depict daily life.
Conclusions
Research suggests that social participation significantly predicts cognitive function in older adults. Thus, encouraging various social activities may effectively prevent cognitive decline.
Quaternion-based finite element computation of nonlinear modes and frequency responses of geometrically exact beam structures in three dimensions
Authors: Debeurre Marielle , Grolet Aurélien , Thomas Olivier
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a novel method for computing the nonlinear dynamics of highly flexible slender structures in three dimensions (3D) is proposed. It is the extension to 3D of a previous work restricted to in-plane (2D) deformations. It is based on the geometrically exact beam model, which is discretized with a finite element method and solved entirely in the frequency domain with a harmonic balance method (HBM) coupled to an asymptotic numerical method (ANM) for continuation of periodic solutions. An important consideration is the parametrization of the rotations of the beam's cross sections, much more demanding than in the 2D case. Here, the rotations are parametrized with quaternions, with the advantage of leading naturally to polynomial nonlinearities in the model, well-suited for applying the ANM. Because of the HBM-ANM framework, this numerical strategy is capable of computing both the frequency response of the structure under periodic oscillations and its nonlinear modes (namely its backbone curves and deformed shapes in free conservative oscillations). To illustrate and validate this strategy, it is used to solve two 3D deformations test cases of the literature: a cantilever beam and a clamped-clamped beam subjected to one-to-one (1:1) internal resonance between two companion bending modes in the case of a nearly square cross section.
A new faba bean protein supplement: development and sensory assessment
Authors: Barbosa Priscila Dabaghi , Vilela Regina Maria , Mellinger Caroline , Berté Kleber , Costa Ligia Alves da
Published: February 2024

Pulses have nutritional properties and are known as functional foods due to their content of bioactive compounds. The aim of this research was to develop a protein supplement as a shake, made from commercial faba bean (Vicia faba L.) protein concentrate and natural ingredients and evaluate its acceptability. For that, a shake was prepared from faba bean protein concentrate (Vicia faba L.), whose aminogram was evaluated by ion exchange chromatography and its acceptability evaluated through sensorial tests, using as controls a shake based on vegetable protein and a whey protein. The faba bean protein formulation is sufficient in 7 of the 10 essential amino acids evaluated. The sensory tests showed that the faba bean protein was better evaluated in terms of appearance, color, and aroma as compared to the control samples. The whey protein was better evaluated in terms of flavor and texture, which can be explained by the gritty texture and beany flavor characteristic of legumes, however, there was no significant difference in the preference ordering test, hedonic scale, and purchase intention.
Prevalence of nasopharyngeal myiasis in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from an area with high sympatry between wild and domestic ungulates in Central Spain
Authors: Martínez-Calabuig Néstor , Panadero Rosario , Varas Gonzalo , Remesar Susana , López Ceferino M. , Saldaña Ana , Díaz Pablo , Díez-Baños Pablo , Morrondo Patrocinio , García-Dios David
Published: February 2024

Infection by the sheep bot flyOestrus ovis was firstly reported in a single roe deer from Central Spain in 2023. In order to confirm whether that finding was an isolated event or a spillover of O. ovis to a new host, nasopharyngeal cavities of 184 roe deer hunted in Central Spain between January-June 2023 were examined. All larvae were recovered and morphologically identified; in addition, species identification was molecularly confirmed in a subset of specimens.
Forty-four roe deer (23.9%; CI 95 17.95-30.74) were positive for different Oestrinae larval stages. Twenty-six animals (14.1%; CI 95 9.44-20.02%) were infested by the roe deer nasal bot fly (Cephenemyia stimulator) with a mean intensity of 35.2 (SD 49.71) larvae/infested animal,and eighteen (9.8%; CI 95 5.90-15.02%) roe deer harboured the sheep bot fly (O. ovis), with a mean intensity of 2.0 (SD 1.33) larvae/infested animal. No mixed infestations by both Oestrinae were found in a single animal. All larval instars (L1, L2 and L3) of both species were identified. Most C. stimulator specimens were located at the nasal turbinates, and a small percentage (3.2%) at the pharynx; however, all O. ovislarvae were found at the nasal turbinates. Since O. ovis is highly prevalent in sheep and goats from Central Spain, the high sympatry between roe deer populations and small ruminant flocks in the studied area may have increased the risk of cross-infection. Moreover, the finding of mature third stage larvae of O. ovis suggests that this species can complete its life cycle in roe deer. Therefore, monitoring bot flies in sheep and goat flocks as well as in sympatric wild ruminants is strongly recommended for achieving an optimum control of nasal myiasis.
Effects of Crocin and Azithromycin and their co-administration on experimental model of sciatic nerve injury in rats
Authors: Abbaszadeh Mohammad Ebrahim , Pourheydar Bagher , Farjah Gholamhossein
Published: February 2024

Background: Although peripheral nerve injury is not life-threatening, it causes significant disability. Following these damages, ischemia and inflammatory processes occur, resulting in neurological dysfunction. Several medications have been explored in order to alleviate the symptoms of peripheral nerve injury. This study aimed to investigate how crocin and azithromycin affected sciatic nerve crush injuries in rats.
Methods: Five groups were established using 35 adult male rats: Control, Lesion, Azithromycin (AZ), Crocin (CR), and AZ+CR. Except for the control group, sciatic nerve injury was surgically induced in every other group. For seven days, azithromycin and crocin were administered. Following the completion of biochemical and behavioral evaluations, sections of sciatic nerve were stained in preparation for immunohistochemical and histological analysis.
Results: The healing process of sciatic nerve injury was expedited in all experiments by both azithromycin and crocin. However, the efficacy of crocin treatment was more pronounced in comparison to that of azithromycin. Crocin was found to be less efficacious than combination therapy involving AZ and CR, as determined by SFI, hot plate, and immunohistochemical analyses. In the remaining evaluations, however, no significant difference existed between the AZ+CR and CR groups.
Conclusion: The recovery process of sciatic nerve injury in rats was enhanced by both crocin and azithromycin; however, the effect of crocin treatment was stronger in the animals. In comparison to the crocin group, combination therapy with azithromycin and crocin did not produce a significant difference in the majority of aspects.
Data Fusion for Travel Analysis: Linking Travel Survey and Mobile Device Location Data
Authors: Zhao Guangchen , Al-Khasawneh Mohammad B. , Tuoto Tiziana , Cirillo Cinzia
Published: February 2024

Travel surveys typically collect detailed information about demographics and travel behavior of households and persons; but their sample sizes are often limited, and trip information is usually limited to a single day. In contrast, Mobile Device Location Data (MDLD) provides extensive and accurate trip records spanning multiple days for each person from a much larger sample, while demographic information for the individuals are always lacking due to anonymization. This study constructs data panels combining high-precision, long-term trip records from MDLD with detailed demographic information from a regional travel survey (RTS). Two probabilistic record linkage algorithms are employed to identify individuals with similar travel behaviors between RTS and MDLD datasets. The data panels constructed by the linkage algorithm captured not only peak-hour commutes but also off-peak travel and non-home-related trips, shedding light on previously underreported travel behaviors and offering a more holistic view of individuals' travel patterns. This comprehensive dataset also exhibits comparable demographic characteristics to the original RTS, showing that such data panel is a reasonable representation of the entire population. The integration of diverse datasets holds promise for revolutionizing travel behavior analysis and shaping the future of transportation planning in the era of mobile technology and big data.
Computational Discovery of Potential Drug Candidates from Phytochemicals of Withania somnifera and Saraca asoca Targeting Ebola and Marburg Viruses Infection
Authors: Ibrahim Munir , Detroja Asmita , Bhimani Avani , Bhatt Tirth Chetankumar , Bishoyi Ashok Kumar , Sanghvi Gaurav
Published: February 2024

Ebola and Marburg viruses are extremely lethal and cause hemorrhagic fever, with deaths from cases exceeding 90%. Currently, just a few licensed drugs for these diseases. This necessitates extensive research on natural compounds having putative therapeutic effects, particularly phytochemicals derived from medicinal plants. In this study, the molecular properties of six Withania somnifera and six Saraca asoca phytochemicals were analyzed. The aim was to assess their potential to bind and possibly inhibit the VP24 protein (vital for the viral replication) of both Ebola and Marburg viruses using computational approaches. The drug-likeness properties of the phytochemicals were determined using a Mol soft server, Further Prediction of pharmacokinetics was studied using a ProTox web server and pKCSN server, Molecular docking studies were carried out using PyRx software. The Insilico analysis revealed Withaferin A, Withanolide D, Withanolide F phytochemicals of Withania somnifera and Catechin, Epicatechin, and Isolariciresinol of Saraca asoca to have high binding affinity with both VP24 Proteins of Ebola and Marburg viruses, this suggests their potential to bind with the VP24 protein, disrupt its normal function, and consequently impede viral replication. These findings strongly imply that these phytoconstituents could possess antiviral properties. However, to validate and establish the antiviral potential of these phytochemicals, further investigations are imperative. Methods such as molecular dynamics simulations, in-vivo and in-vitro studies should be conducted. Upon successful validation, these phytochemicals could emerge as viable candidates for the development of drugs aimed at treating Ebola and Marburg diseases.
Quasi-ductile fracture behavior of glubam due to transverse fiber distribution
Authors: Jiang Haolei , Liu Wen
Published: February 2024

The cracking of fibrous composites is inevitable, and the cracking mode is depended on its fiber distribution. In this study, bamboo fibrous composites are selected to investigate the effect of fiber distribution on crack propagation. Glued-laminated bamboo (Glubam) is a bi-directional bamboo fibrous composites, usually used as a board member, its vertical thickness (V direction) is about 28 mm, and with the longitudinal fiber layers (L direction) to transverse fiber layers (T direction) setting a 4:1. Considering that there are fewer transverse fibers in glubam, it is more prone to cracking under transverse load, this study researches the mode-I fracture characteristics of glubam in the TV direction. The three-point bending (3-p-b) fracture test of glubam specimens with single-edge notches (SEN) was carried out in this study. The deformation curves show that the specimens still have the load-carrying capacity after reaching the maximum load, and the load shows a trend of step-like decrease, exhibiting a quasi-ductile fracture behavior. Overall, the fracture process can be divided into four stages, including linear, softening, quasi-ductile, and failure stages. In this study, the tensile strength ft and fracture toughness KIC of glubam in the softening and quasi-ductile stages are calculated using nonlinear elastic fracture mechanics (Non-LEFM) method, and the prefabricated crack length a0 is modified according to the location of the transverse fibers. The deviations of the fracture parameters in the two stages are within 10%, which indicates that the modification of the prefabricated crack length is correct and indirectly demonstrates the correlation between the fracture parameters of the quasi-ductile stage and the transverse fiber position. On the other hand, quasi-ductile fractures exist in other materials and structures, and they all have staggered structures. This staggered structure makes the crack in the form of semi-stable propagation, while the load decreases in a step-like manner.
Prevotella copri transplantation promotes neurorehabilitation in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Gu Nina , Yan Jin , Tang Wei , Zhang Zhaosi , Wang Lin , Li Zhao , Wang Yingwen , Zhu Yajun , Tang Shuang , Zhong Jianjun , Cheng Chongjie , Sun Xiaochuan , Huang Zhijian
Published: February 2024

Background
The gut microbiota plays a critical role in regulating brain function through the microbiome-gut-brain axis (MGBA). Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is associated with neurological impairment in TBI patients. Our previous study found that TBI results in a decrease in the abundance of Prevotella copri (P. copri). Manipulation of the gut microbiota is a promising intervention strategy, but less is known about the potential role of P. copri transplantation in TBI.
Methods
In this study, a controlled cortical impact (CCI) model was used to induce traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adult male C57BL/6 mice. Subsequently, P. copri was transplanted by intragastric gavage for 7 consecutive days. To investigate the effect of the GUO-PI3K/Akt pathway in P. copri transplantation therapy, guanosine (GUO) was administered 2 h after TBI for 7 consecutive days, and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) was administered 30 min before TBI. Various techniques were used to assess the effects of these interventions, including quantitative PCR, neurological behavior tests, metabolite analysis, ELISA, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, Evans blue assays, transmission electron microscopy, FITC-dextran permeability assay, gastrointestinal transit assessment, and 16S rDNA sequencing.
Results
P. copri abundance was significantly reduced after traumatic brain injury (TBI). P. copri transplantation alleviated motor and cognitive deficits tested by the NSS, Morris water maze, and open field test. P. copri transplantation attenuated oxidative stress and blood-brain barrier damage and reduced neuronal apoptosis after TBI. In addition, P. copri transplantation resulted in the reshaping of the intestinal flora, improved gastrointestinal motility and intestinal wall permeability. Metabolomics and ELISA analysis revealed a significant increase in GUO levels in feces, serum and injured brain after P. copri transplantation. Furthermore, the expression of p-PI3K and p-Akt was found to be increased after P. copri transplantation and GUO treatment. Notably, LY294002 treatment attenuated the observed improvements.
Conclusions
We demonstrate for the first time that P. copri transplantation can improve GI functions and alter gut microbiota dysbiosis after TBI. Additionally, P. copri transplantation can ameliorate neurological deficits, possibly via the GUO-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway after TBI.
Monitoring Values of Routine Echocardiography and Two-dimensional Speckle Tracking Imaging in Cardiotoxicity Caused by Treatment of Breast Carcinoma with Anthracyclines
Authors: Song Wenjuan , Ma Xuejuan , Sun Yue , Liu Liping , Gu Ying , Zhao Yue , Ye Yujia , Wang Yu
Published: February 2024

Objective
This research was conducted to investigate the monitoring values of routine echocardiography (ECG) and two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (2D-STI) in cardiotoxicity caused by the treatment of breast carcinoma with anthracyclines (ANTH).
Methods
100 patients with breast carcinoma were selected and enrolled into normal group (n = 53 cases) and abnormal group (47 cases) according to whether ECG was abnormal. Routine ECG and 2D-STI were employed for the detection, ECG- and 2D-STI-related parameters were compared, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn, and the clinical application values of monitoring methods for two groups were assessed.
Results
Before chemotherapy, no remarkable statistical difference was detected in routine ECG and 2D-STI parameters between normal and abnormal groups (P > 0.05). After 6 cycles, E/V value of abnormal group was inferior to that of normal group ((0.93 ± 0.16) vs (1.33 ± 0.23). Besides, longitudinal peak strain (SRI) values of rear wall, front spacer, and rear spacer in abnormal group were inferior to those in normal group (P < 0.05). Routine ECG combined with 2D-STI had the best predictive effect followed by 2D-STI and routine ECG.
Conclusion
To sum up, 2D-STI was a new method for assessing myocardial lesions and possessed significant early clinical monitoring values in cardiotoxicity caused by chemotherapy after the treatment of breast carcinoma with ANTH. It had higher clinical application values than routine ECG.
The Discovery of a Contact-Binary Satellite of the Asteroid (152830) Dinkinesh by the Lucy Mission
Authors: Levison Harold
Published: February 2024

On November 1, 2023, Lucy passed within 431 km of the smallest Main Belt asteroid yet to be encountered by a spacecraft, (152830) Dinkinesh. This target was a late addition to the Lucy mission \cite{Levison+2021} and was intended primarily as an in-flight test of the Terminal Tracking system, an autonomous range-finding and tracking system that is a critical component of Lucy’s operations \citep{Olkin+2021}. Data obtained by Lucy’s instruments during the encounter revealed Dinkinesh, which has an effective diameter of only ~720 m, to be an unexpectedly complex system. Of particular note is the presence of a substantial equatorial ridge and a longitudinal trough, and the discovery of the first confirmed contact binary satellite, now named (152830) Dinkinesh I Selam. Selam consists of two near-equal sized lobes with diameters of ~210 m and ~230 m. It orbits Dinkinesh at a distance of ~3.1 km with an orbital period of about 53 hr, and is tidally locked. Dinkinesh's ridge and trough are likely the result of mass failure resulting from YORP torques, and the reaccretion of material. This event is probably linked to the formation of Selam.