bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Implementation of 2x4 Octagonal Array Patch Microstrip Antennas using T-Slots at 2.4 GHz Frequency for Wifi Applications
Authors: Ibnu Muttaqin Muhammad , Darmono Hendro , Koesmarijanto Koesmarijanto
Published: July 2023

Wireless communication requires a useful device to transmit and receive electromagnetic waves. WiFi is a particular kind of wireless communication device used to send data over the internet network. The bandwidth and signal coverage of WiFi have significant limitations. As a result, an antenna is utilized to enhance signal reception in order to solve this issue. The research method used is to compare the design of the 2x4 octagonal microstrip array antenna using a T-slot and without the T-slot to see the results of simulation and testing in terms of return loss, VSWR, gain, and bandwidth. The results of bandwidth testing for octagonal microstrip antennas without a 2x4 T-slot array are 32 MHz, while for octagonal microstrip antennas using a 2x4 T-slot array of 40MHz. The octagonal microstrip antenna without a 2x4 T-Slot array has Return Loss of -18.2 dB and a VSWR of 1.280. The 2x4 octagonal T-Slot array microstrip antenna has Return Loss of -17.6 dB and a VSWR of 1.303. The test results 2x4 octagonal array microstrip antenna gain without using T-slot produces the largest gain of 9.55dBi, and the antenna using T-slot produces the largest gain of 12.55dBi.
Object Detection in Online Proctoring Through Two Camera Using Faster-RCNN
Authors: Suardinata I Wayan , Wardhany Vivien Arief
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted changes in teaching methods from offline to online, including the implementation of exams. But many reports say that the potential for online exam cheating is very high which can compromise the credibility of the exam. The online exam monitoring system using one camera makes it difficult for officers to make decisions because of the lack of evidence and supporting data. In this study, we propose a monitoring approach using two cameras, namely a camera on a laptop to get a front view of the participant and a cellphone camera to get a side view of the examinee but because of the complexity of the problem, at this stage we only focus on the side camera. Implementation begins with the collection of video recording data, custom data sets for training and pretrained datasets from the zoo model. Training is carried out using a custom dataset to detect objects that are not recognized by the pretrained dataset. The evaluation of the training results using the COCO evaluator showed the average of the bbox-AP is 59,169. The fraud detection process is carried out using 6 exam videos with a total of 192,929 frames, producing two outputs, namely object detection videos and csv files. The csv file contains the frame number, time, object detected in each frame. The next process is to analyze the csv file and mark frames that have the potential to be fraudulent. The evaluation results show an accuracy of 0.884615385 and a recall of 0.821428571
PODE A ESCOLA SER UMA OBRA DE ARTE? O QUE APRENDI COM O PROFESSOR FOUCAULT
Authors: Inocêncio Adalberto Ferdnando
Published: July 2023

Neste ensaio, apresentam-se e discutem-se algumas características da escola disciplinar moderna. Argumenta-se que, em torno da noção de público, é capaz de ressignificar suas características, distanciando-se do caráter dominador do poder e aproximando-se de uma obra de arte, no sentido foucaultiano de uma estética. Na seção analítica, são apresentados os resultados dessa ressignificação numa interpretação artística, bem como algumas discussões que as acompanham.
Smooth and accurate predictions of joint contact force time-series in gait using over parameterised deep neural networks
Authors: Liew Bernard X. W. , Rügamer David , Mei Qichang , Altai Zainab , Zhu Xuqi , Zhai Xiaojun , Cortes Nelson
Published: July 2023

Alterations in joint contact forces (JCFs) are thought to be important mechanisms for the onset and progression of many musculoskeletal and orthopaedic pain disorders. Computational approaches to JCFs assessment represent the only non-invasive means of estimating in-vivo forces; but this cannot be undertaken in free-living environments. Here, we used deep neural networks to train models to predict JCFs, using only joint angles as predictors. Our neural network models were generally able to predict JCFs with errors within published minimal detectable change values. The errors ranged from the lowest value of 0.03 bodyweight (BW) (ankle medial-lateral JCF in walking) to a maximum of 0.65BW (knee VT JCF in running). Interestingly, we also found that over parametrised neural networks by training on longer epochs (>100) resulted in better and smoother waveform predictions. Our methods for predicting JCFs using only joint kinematics hold a lot of promise in allowing clinicians and coaches to continuously monitor tissue loading in free-living environments.
Type 2 diabetes and in-hospital sudden cardiac arrest in ST-elevation myocardial infarction in the US
Authors: Mhaimeed Omar , Pillai Krishnadev , Dargham Soha , Al Suwaidi Jassim , Jneid Hani , Abi Khalil Charbel
Published: July 2023

Aims

We aimed to assess the impact of diabetes on sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in US patients hospitalized for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

We used the National Inpatient Sample (2005–2017) data to identify adult patients with STEMI. The primary outcome was in-hospital SCA. Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), cardiogenic shock (CS), acute renal failure (ARF), and the revascularization strategy in SCA patients.

Results

SCA significantly increased from 4% in 2005 to 7.6% in 2018 in diabetes patients and from 3% in 2005 to 4.6% in 2018 in non-diabetes ones (p < 0.001 for both). Further, diabetes was associated with an increased risk of SCA [aOR = 1.432 (1.336–1.707)]. In SCA patients with diabetes, the mean age (SD) decreased from 68 (13) to 66 (11) years old, and mortality decreased from 65.7% to 49.3% during the observation period (p < 0.001). Compared to non-diabetes patients, those with T2DM had a higher adjusted risk of mortality, ARF, and CS [aOR = 1.72 (1.62–1.83), 1.52 (1.43–1.63), 1.25 (1.17–1.33); respectively] but not VF or VT. Those patients were more likely to undergo revascularization with CABG [aOR = 1.197 (1.065–1.345)] but less likely to undergo PCI [aOR = 0.708 (0.664–0.754)].

Conclusion

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest in ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It is also associated with a higher mortality risk in SCA patients. However, the recent temporal mortality trend in SCA patients shows a steady decline, irrespective of diabetes.
Review: Failure of current digoxin monitoring for toxicity: new monitoring recommendations to maintain therapeutic levels for efficacy
Authors: Gona Sridhar Rao , Rosenberg Joel , Fyffe-Freil Ria C. , Kozakiewicz Janet M. , Money Mary E.
Published: July 2023

The current recommendations for monitoring digoxin, a narrow therapeutic index drug, are limited to confirming medication use or investigating suspicion of toxicity and fail our oath to do no harm. Numerous meta-analyses evaluating digoxin use consistently recommend frequent monitoring to maintain the level of 0.5 to ≤1.0 ng/ml because higher levels lead to increased morbidity and mortality without benefit. Data from the United States National Poison Control Center (2012–2020) show annual deaths due to digoxin of 18–36 compared to lithium's 1–7, and warfarin's 0–2 respectively. The latter drugs also have narrow therapeutic indexes like digoxin yet are more carefully monitored. Recognition of digoxin toxicity is impaired as levels are not being routinely checked after medications are added to a patient's regimen. In addition, providers may be using ranges to guide treatment that are no longer appropriate. It is imperative that monitoring guidelines and laboratory therapeutic levels are revised to reduce morbidity and mortality due to digoxin. In this review, we provide a comprehensive literature review of digoxin monitoring guidelines, digoxin toxicity, and evidence to support revising the ranges for serum digoxin monitoring.
The application of distributed leadership in middle school classroom
Authors: Ling Xi , Bai Yu Jie , Li Bin Bin , Yang Zhi
Published: July 2023

This mini-review explores the conceptual framework of distributed leadership and its application in middle school classrooms. Traditional teacher leadership in middle school classrooms has been found to be deficient in meeting the diverse needs of students. Therefore, this article investigates the potential advantages of distributed leadership in addressing the shortcomings of teacher leadership. The article examines the impact of distributed leadership on student achievement, particularly in promoting students’ academic performance and ability. Through a critical analysis of existing literature, the review highlights the need to establish effective communication channels, teamwork, and trust in distributed leadership. Furthermore, the article acknowledges the limited empirical research on the effectiveness of distributed leadership in middle school classrooms. Despite this, the article concludes that the adoption of distributed leadership in middle school classrooms can improve student learning outcomes, classroom teaching effectiveness, and school operation efficiency. Overall, this conceptual exploration suggests that distributed leadership has the potential to offer a more effective and inclusive approach to leadership in middle school classrooms.
Exploring the comparative cardiovascular death benefits of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes: a frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analysis-based scoring
Authors: Ghosal Samit , Sinha Binayak
Published: July 2023

Background and aims

Cardiovascular death (CV death) is the most objective component of the primary or secondary endpoint in cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) conducted with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is). CV death is often incorporated into primary composite outcomes. It is combined with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in trials with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) at baseline and with hospitalization due to heart failure (hHF) in trials with heart failure at baseline. Unlike the primary composites, CV death reduction by itself demonstrated significant variations among the CVOTs with SGLT-2is. Moreover, the impact of the individual agents within the SGLT-2i group on the reduction in CV death has not been explored objectively. This network meta-analysis was undertaken to construct a hierarchy based on indirect pairwise comparisons and rankings among the individual agents within SGLT-2is.

Methods

A Cochrane library-based web search yielded 13 randomized controlled trials for analysis. Stata/BE 17.0 and RStudio 2022.07.1 Build 554 software were used to conduct a frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analysis. The effect size was assessed based on the risk ratio (RR). Ranking of the individual agents was performed with a frequentist approach (P-score and a multidimensional scaling [MDS] rank system) and a Bayesian ranking (surface under the cumulative ranking [SUCRA]).

Results

Regarding the overall data, SGLT-2is reduced the CV death risk by 12% (RR: 0.88, 95% CI 0.80–0.96). All three scoring methods resulted in empagliflozin scoring the highest. There was a 15% RR reduction in CV death (95% CI 0.71–1.02) in the ASCVD and multiple cardiovascular risk factor (MRF) groups and an 11% RR reduction in the HF group, with empagliflozin ranking the highest in the former group and dapagliflozin in the latter.

Conclusions

Empagliflozin ranked the highest compared to the other SGLT-2is in the overall population and the trials including type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with ASCVD or MRF at baseline, while dapagliflozin ranked the highest in the trials of patients with HF at baseline.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022381556, identifier CRD42022381556.
Effect of hyaluronic acid-enriched transfer medium on frozen–thawed embryo transfer outcomes in RIF patients: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Yan Qiang , Zhao Mei , Hao Fan , Zhao Ruru , Teng Xiaoming , He Bin , Zhu Chong , Chen Zhiqin , Li Kunming
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Many patients who undergo assisted reproductive technology (ART) suffer from recurrent implantation failure (RIF). The addition of hyaluronic acid (HA) to the transfer medium is one of several methods to improve pregnancy outcomes. We investigated whether HA could improve the live birth and clinical pregnancy rates of RIF patients.

Methods

This study included 248 RIF patients, who were divided into two groups: the control (CTL) group (n=137), which received transfer medium without HA, and the HA group (n=111), which received transfer medium with HA. The two groups were compared according to the ART outcome.

Results

The primary outcomes were the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Secondary outcomes include a positive urine pregnancy test, the implantation, ongoing pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, clinical miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy rates, foetal or congenital defects, obstetric complications, infant birth weight and any related adverse events. Regarding the primary outcomes, the clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the HA group than in the control group, and there was no significant difference in the live birth rate (LBR) between the HA and control groups. Regarding the secondary outcomes, the implantation, multiple pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy rates were similar between the two groups.

Discussion

Our findings supported the conclusion that HA can improve the clinical pregnancy rate of patients with RIF undergoing FET cycles, but the live birth rate was not significantly improved with the addition of HA to the traditional transfer medium.
Fusion model with attention mechanism for carbon-neutral sports competitions
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhang Xuan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

In sports competitions, using energy-saving and emission-reduction measures is an important means to achieve the carbon neutrality goal.

Methods

In this paper, we propose an attention mechanism-based convolutional neural network (CNN) combined with the gated recurrent unit (GRU) for carbon neutral energy saving and emission reduction prediction model in sports competitions, CNN is a feedforward neural network whose input is a two-dimensional matrix. The main feature of CNN is that it can handle multi-channel input data, and the use of GRU can make the model structure simple and largely reduce The use of GRU can make the model structure simple, which largely reduces the hardware computational power and time cost and also better solves the long dependency problem in RNN networks. CNN-GRU extracts the data for features and then optimized by the attention mechanism.

Results

The model collects real-time carbon emissions data from sports events, including game times, lighting usage, air conditioning emissions and other carbon emissions data, and uses deep learning algorithms to predict and compare carbon emissions from sports competition.

Discussion

In identifying energy saving and emission reduction measures conducive to the realization of the goal of carbon neutral sports events, the model has a certain reference value for realizing energy saving and emission reduction in sports competitions under carbon neutrality goals.
“HLA-C: evolution, epigenetics, and pathological implications in the major histocompatibility complex”
Authors: Velastegui Erick , Vera Edwin , Vanden Berghe Wim , Muñoz Mindy S. , Orellana-Manzano Andrea
Published: July 2023

HLA-C, a gene located within the major histocompatibility complex, has emerged as a prominent target in biomedical research due to its involvement in various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders; even though its recent addition to the MHC, the interaction between HLA-C and KIR is crucial for immune responses, particularly in viral infections. This review provides an overview of the structure, origin, function, and pathological implications of HLA-C in the major histocompatibility complex. In the last decade, we systematically reviewed original publications from Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Our findings reveal that genetic variations in HLA-C can determine susceptibility or resistance to certain diseases. However, the first four exons of HLA-C are particularly susceptible to epigenetic modifications, which can lead to gene silencing and alterations in immune function. These alterations can manifest in diseases such as alopecia areata and psoriasis and can also impact susceptibility to cancer and the effectiveness of cancer treatments. By comprehending the intricate interplay between genetic and epigenetic factors that regulate HLA-C expression, researchers may develop novel strategies for preventing and treating diseases associated with HLA-C dysregulation.
Establishment of a porcine bronchial epithelial cell line and its application to study innate immunity in the respiratory epithelium
Authors: Fukuyama Kohtaro , Zhuang Tao , Toyoshi Eita , Raya Tonetti Fernanda , Saha Sudeb , Zhou Binghui , Ikeda-Ohtsubo Wakako , Nishiyama Keita , Aso Hisashi , Villena Julio , Kitazawa Haruki
Published: July 2023

In vitro culture models that precisely mirror the porcine respiratory epithelium are needed to gain insight into how pathogens and host interact. In this study, a new porcine bronchial epithelial cell line, designated as PBE cells, was established from the respiratory tract of a neonatal pig. PBE cells assumed a cobblestone-epithelial like morphology with close contacts between the cells when they reached confluence. The PBE cell line was characterized in terms of its expression of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and its ability to respond to the activation of the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and TLR4 signaling pathways, which are key PRRs involved in the defense of the respiratory epithelium against pathogens. PBE cells stimulated with poly(I:C) were able to up-regulate the expression of IFN-β, IFN-λ1 (IL-29), IFN-λ3 (IL-28B), the antiviral factors Mx1, OAS1, and PKR, as well as the viral PRRs RIG-1 and MDA5. The expression kinetics studies of immune factors in PBE cells allow us to speculate that this cell line can be a useful in vitro tool to investigate treatments that help to potentiate antiviral immunity in the respiratory epithelium of the porcine host. In addition, poly(I:C) and LPS treatments increased the expression of the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1/CCL2 and differentially modulated the expression of negative regulators of the TLR signaling pathways. Then, PBE cells may also allow the evaluation of treatments that can regulate TLR3- and TLR4-mediated inflammatory injury in the porcine airway, thereby protecting the host against harmful overresponses.
Identification and validation of immune-associated NETosis subtypes and biomarkers in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated glomerulonephritis
Authors: Tao Mi , He Yiqing , Li Lijuan , Li Yuyan , Liao Wenwen , Nie Haihang , Gao Ping
Published: July 2023

Background

NETosis is a new form of cell death, marked by DNA chromatin release from dead neutrophils. While it aids in microbe defense, it may worsen inflammation in autoimmune diseases, causing tissue harm. The impact of NETosis on Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-associated Glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) remains unexplored and requires investigation.

Methods

First, a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted to uncover differential expression of neutrophil extranuclear trap-associated genes (DE-NETs) in ANCA-GN. The NETosisScore model was established through the single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), which categorized all patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. The accuracy of model was assessed by ROC curve. The biological function of various subgroups was explored through Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA), while the abundance of immune cell infiltration was measured with CIBERSORT. Furthermore, the key NETosis-related genes (NRGs) were identified using three machine learning algorithms, and their relationship with renal function was analyzed through the NephroseqV5 database. Through the application of qPCR and immunohistochemical staining techniques, the mRNA and protein expression levels of NRGs were determined in patients with ANCA-GN and control.

Results

A NETosisScore model was developed from 18 DE-NETs using the ssGSEA algorithm. The model’s ability to predict ANCA-GN patients with a ROC AUC of 0.921. The high-risk group in ANCA-GN showed enrichment of immune-related pathways and greater infiltration of immune cells, as revealed by KEGG enrichment analysis and CIBERSORT. Using three machine learning algorithms, we identified six NRGs. Significant positive correlations were found between NRGs and CCR, macrophages, T-cell co-inhibition, and TIL. Further KEGG analysis revealed that the functions of NRGs may be closely related to the toll-like receptor signaling pathway. The levels of NRGs increased as kidney function declined and were positively correlated with Scr (serum creatinine) and negatively correlated with GFR (glomerular filtration rate), qPCR analysis showed increased expression of most NRGs in ANCA-GN patients. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining confirmed higher expression of all NRGs in ANCA-GN patients.

Conclusion

NETosisScore model accurately predicts high-risk patients in ANCA-GN with enriched immune pathways, 6 NRGs identified as potential biomarkers.
Third dose of BNT162b2 improves immune response in liver transplant recipients to ancestral strain but not Omicron BA.1 and XBB
Authors: Chang Zi Wei , Goh Yun Shan , Rouers Angeline , Fong Siew-Wai , Tay Matthew Zirui , Chavatte Jean-Marc , Hor Pei Xiang , Loh Chiew Yee , Huang Yuling , Tan Yong Jie , Neo Vanessa , Kam Isaac Kai Jie , Yeo Nicholas Kim-Wah , Tan Eunice X. , Huang Daniel , Wang Bei , Salleh Siti Nazihah Mohd , Ngoh Eve Zi Xian , Wang Cheng-I. , Leo Yee-Sin , Lin Raymond Tzer Pin , Lye David Chien Boon , Young Barnaby Edward , Muthiah Mark , Ng Lisa F. P. , Rénia Laurent ,   COVID-19 Study Group
Published: July 2023

Vaccine immunogenicity in transplant recipients can be impacted by the immunosuppressive (IS) regimens they receive. While BNT162b2 vaccination has been shown to induce an immune response in liver transplant recipients (LTRs), it remains unclear how different IS regimens may affect vaccine immunogenicity after a third BNT162b2 dose in LTRs, which is especially important given the emergence of the Omicron sublineages of SARS-CoV-2. A total of 95 LTRs receiving single and multiple IS regimens were recruited and offered three doses of BNT162b2 during the study period. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 90, and 180 after the first BNT162b2 dose. At each time point, levels of anti-spike antibodies, their neutralizing activity, and specific memory B and T cell responses were assessed. LTRs receiving single IS regimens showed an absence of poor immunogenicity, while LTRs receiving multiple IS regimens showed lower levels of spike-specific antibodies and immunological memory compared to vaccinated healthy controls after two doses of BNT162b2. With a third dose of BNT162b2, spike-specific humoral, memory B, and T cell responses in LTR significantly improved against the ancestral strain of SARS-CoV-2 and were comparable to those seen in healthy controls who received only two doses of BNT162b2. However, LTRs receiving multiple IS regimens still showed poor antibody responses against Omicron sublineages BA.1 and XBB. A third dose of BNT162b2 may be beneficial in boosting antibody, memory B, and T cell responses in LTRs receiving multiple IS regimens, especially against the ancestral Wuhan strain of SARS-CoV-2. However, due to the continued vulnerability of LTRs to presently circulating Omicron variants, antiviral treatments such as medications need to be considered to prevent severe COVID-19 in these individuals.
COVID-19 vaccine induced poor neutralization titers for SARS-CoV-2 omicron variants in maternal and cord blood
Authors: Govindaraj Sakthivel , Cheedarla Narayanaiah , Cheedarla Suneethamma , Irby LesShon S. , Neish Andrew S. , Roback John D. , Smith Alicia K. , Velu Vijayakumar
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Maternally derived antibodies are crucial for neonatal immunity. Understanding the binding and cross-neutralization capacity of maternal and cord antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 variants following COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy can inform neonatal immunity.

Methods

Here we characterized the binding and neutralizing antibody profile at delivery in 24 pregnant individuals following two doses of Moderna mRNA-1273 or Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccination. We analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 multivariant cross-neutralizing antibody levels for wildtype Wuhan, Delta, Omicron BA1, BA2, and BA4/BA5 variants. In addition, we evaluated the transplacental antibody transfer by profiling maternal and umbilical cord blood.

Results

Our results reveal that the current COVID-19 vaccination induced significantly higher RBD-specific binding IgG titers in cord blood compared to maternal blood for both the Wuhan and Omicron BA1 strain. Interestingly, the binding IgG antibody levels for the Omicron BA1 strain were significantly lower when compared to the Wuhan strain in both maternal and cord blood. In contrast to the binding, the Omicron BA1, BA2, and BA4/5 specific neutralizing antibody levels were significantly lower compared to the Wuhan and Delta variants. It is interesting to note that the BA4/5 neutralizing capacity was not detected in either maternal or cord blood.

Discussion

Our data suggest that the initial series of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were immunogenic in pregnant women, and vaccine-elicited binding antibodies were detectable in cord blood at significantly higher levels for the Wuhan and Delta variants but not for the Omicron variants. Interestingly, the vaccination did not induce neutralizing antibodies for Omicron variants. These results provide novel insight into the impact of vaccination on maternal humoral immune response and transplacental antibody transfer for SARS-CoV-2 variants and support the need for bivalent boosters as new variants emerge.
Population structure of Pacific green turtles: a new perspective from microsatellite DNA variation
Authors: Roden Suzanne E. , Horne John B. , Jensen Michael P. , FitzSimmons Nancy N. , Balazs George H. , Farman Richard , Cruce Horeg Jennifer , Hapdei Jessy , Heidemeyer Maike , Jones T. Todd , Komoroske Lisa M. , Limpus Colin J. , Murakawa Shawn , Piedra Rotney , Sarti-Martínez Laura , Summers Tammy , Tatarata Miri , Vélez Elizabeth , Zárate Patricia , Dutton Peter H.
Published: July 2023

This study builds upon the current understanding of green turtle population genetic structure in the Pacific that has largely been based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), by examining nuclear DNA (nDNA) diversity, regional connectivity, and male-mediated gene flow. A total of 1,111 nesting green turtle samples were analyzed with 10 microsatellite markers from 20 Pacific rookeries. Population differentiation (FST) was significant (p <0.05) in all but 8 of 190 pairwise rookery comparisons. PairwiseFSTvalues and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) revealed a defined East-West split consistent with mtDNA studies. Additionally, isolation-by-distance was evaluated with estimated effective migration surfaces (EEMS). The data indicated structure throughout the Pacific rookeries largely in agreement with stock structure defined by mtDNA studies, except for some areas on the Central American and Australian continental shelves, providing evidence of possible male-mediated gene flow. The series of analyses performed did indicate that male-mediated gene flow has likely occurred where breeding migration corridors of separate populations overlap with courtship areas. This may occur primarily along the margins of continents, including along Mexico and Central America in the East Pacific. Our study provides an ocean-wide baseline nDNA dataset for green turtle rookeries in the Pacific and reexamines the current thinking regarding the role of male turtles in the population dynamics of management units (MU) and to what extent nuclear gene flow occurs among designated MUs.
Distribution and impacts of long-lasting marine heat waves on phytoplankton biomass
Authors: Chauhan Anshul , Smith Philip A. H. , Rodrigues Filipe , Christensen Asbjørn , St. John Michael , Mariani Patrizio
Published: July 2023

Warm temperature anomalies are increasing in frequency in the global ocean with potential consequences on the goods and services provided by marine ecosystems. Recent studies have analyzed the distribution and dynamics of marine heat waves (MHWs) and evaluated their impacts on marine habitats. Different drivers can generate those anomalies and the emerging attributes can vary significantly both in space and time, with potentially different effects on marine biology. In this paper we classify MHWs based ontheir attributes and using different baselines, to account for different adaptive responses in phytoplankton dynamics. Specifically, we evaluate the impacts of the most extreme, long-lasting and high-intensity MHWs on phytoplankton communities using remote sensing data. We demonstrate marginal impacts on total chlorophyll concentrations which can be different across different ocean regions. These contrasting effects on phytoplankton dynamics are most likely the results of the different mechanisms generating the MHWs in the first place, including changes in front dynamics, shallower mixed layers, and eddy dynamics. We conclude that those drivers producing extreme MHWs can also induce different phytoplankton responses across the global ocean.
Effects of selective RNA processing and stabilization enzymes on carbon sequestration by photosynthesis of Synechococcus sp. PCC7002
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Liu Daixi , Wang Yafei , Wang Shaoyu , Huang Ranran
Published: July 2023

Synechococcus is one of the most abundant prokaryotic photosynthetic organisms on Earth and plays a key role in oceanic carbon fixation and transformation. To improve the photosynthetic efficiency of synechococcus, a post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism - Selective RNA Processing and Stabilization (SRPS) was considered. We inactivated the SRPS-enzymes, executor of the SRPS mechanism, to explore their regulation rule of photosynthetic carbon fixation efficiency in Synechococcus. The results showed that the inactivation of SRPS-enzymes mainly affected the growth rate or growth phase. It significantly alters the photosynthetic oxygen evolution rate, pigment content, chlorophyll fluorescence, carbon and nitrogen content, as well as the composition and biological activity of the dissolved organic matter derived from Synechococcus (SOM). Inactivating SRPS-enzymes results in an increase in the expression level of most subunits of the Cytochrome b6-f complex, while the expression levels of most subunits of PSI, PSII, RuBisCO, and NDH decrease. All SRPS-enzymes are involved in the expression regulation of basilic protein complexes in photosynthesis, such as PSI, PSII, Cytochrome b6-f complex, ATP synthase, and RuBisCO. Our results indicate that the inactivation of SRPS-enzymes have a significant influence on carbon sequestration by photosynthesis of Synechococcus sp. PCC7002.
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and tumor-associated macrophages as potential predictors of lymph node metastases in major salivary gland cancers
Authors: De Virgilio Armando , Veneroni Maria Vittoria , Costantino Andrea , Festa Bianca Maria , Fiamengo Barbara , Sebastiani Daniela , Spriano Giuseppe , Di Tommaso Luca
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to define if tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) could represent potential predictors of lymph node metastases (LNM) in salivary gland cancers (SGC).

Methods

A selected number of immunohistochemical markers related to TILs (CD3, CD4, CD68, and FOXP3) and TAMs (CD68 and CD163) were investigated on major salivary gland cancers. TIL and TAM densities were measured on digital images using the open-source QuPath both in the tumor interior (TI) and invasive margin (IM). Correlation with pathologic N classification and follow-up clinical data was investigated.

Results

A total of 25 consecutive patients (men: 11; median age: 62.0) were included. Densities of CD3+ IM (OR = 7.7, 95% CI 1.2–51.2), CD8+ TI (OR = 7.7, 95% CI 1.2–51.2), CD8+ IM (OR = 7.7, 95% CI 1.2–51.2), FOXP3+ TI (OR = 24.0, 95% CI 2.2–255.9), CD68+ TI (OR = 7.7, 95% CI 1.2–51.2), and CD163+ IM (OR = 7.7, 95% CI 1.2 – 51.2), and the Immunoscore CD8/CD3 (OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.4) were significantly associated with LNM (p < 0.05). CD3+ TI density was significantly associated with tumor recurrence and death (HR = 5.8, 95% CI 1.5–22.6; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

A high density of specific TIL and TAM subpopulations might be correlated with a higher probability of LNM in SGC.
Tannin extracted from Penthorum chinense Pursh, a potential drug with antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Qin Junyuan , Yu Lei , Peng Fu , Ye Xin , Li Gangmin , Sun Chen , Cheng Fang , Peng Cheng , Xie Xiaofang
Published: July 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen. Due to the widespread use and abuse of antibiotics, various drug-resistant strains of S. aureus have emerged, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) being the most prevalent. Bacterial biofilm is a significant contributor to bacterial infection and drug resistance. Consequently, bacterial biofilm formation has emerged as a therapeutic strategy. In this study, the chemical constituents, antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of tannins isolated from Penthorum chinense Pursh (TPCP) were investigated. In vitro, TPCP exhibited antimicrobial properties. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and MRSA were 156.25 and 312.5 μg/mL, and 312.5 and 625 μg/mL, respectively. According to the growth curves, TPCP significantly inhibited the growth of MSSA and MRSA. The results of the crystal violet biofilm assay in conjunction with confocal laser scanning and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that TPCP destroyed preformed MSSA and MRSA biofilms. TPCP significantly decreased the secretion of exopolysaccharides and extracellular DNA. Subsequently, the mechanism was investigated using RT-PCR. Examining the expression of icaA, cidA, sigB, agrA, and sarA genes in MRSA, we discovered that TPCP inhibited biofilm formation by affecting the quorum-sensing system in bacteria. Our study demonstrates that TPCP exerts antibacterial effects by disrupting the formation of bacterial biofilms, suggesting that TPCP has clinical potential as a novel antibacterial agent for the prevention and treatment of MSSA and MRSA infections.
Disease burden contributed by dietary exposure to aflatoxins in a mountainous city in Southwest China
Authors: Qin Mei , Cheng Li , Li Yan , Tang Xiaoqin , Gan Yuan , Zhao Jian , Luo Shuquan , Zhang Huadong , Zhang Lishi , Chen Jinyao , Huo Jiao
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Aflatoxins (AFT) identified as a Group 1 human carcinogen naturally contaminate various types of food and could increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through dietary intake. Chongqing municipality is located in Southwest China with subtropical monsoon climate which is conducive to AFT contamination in crops. However, the burden of HCC caused by the dietary exposure of the population in Chongqing to AFT has not been quantified.

Methods

The burden of HCC was estimated in terms of Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY) using FDA-iRISK software. Dietary exposure to AFT in three food categories including grain and its products, nuts and seeds, and spices was assessed.

Results

The lifetime average daily dose (LADD) of AFT exposure for the population ranged from 2.40 to 8.25 ng/kg bw/day and 9.51 to 15.10 ng/kg bw/day at the mean and heavy (P95) AFT contamination levels, respectively. Among the three food categories, grain and its products contributed most to AFT exposure of the population. The estimated DALYs related to HCC induced by AFT were 162,000–556,000 and 641,000-1,020,000; the DALY rates were 6.47–22.20 and 25.59–40.72 per 100,000 persons per year; and the population attribution fractions (PAF) were 1.68–5.78% and 6.66–10.60%.

Discussion

Although the burden of HCC caused by dietary AFT was estimated to be relatively low among the population, the overall health burden might be underestimated owing to the uncertainties of this dataset. Thus, the overall health burden associated with AFT intake should still be of concern in further studies.
Hypothalamus and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: potential implications in sleep disorders
Authors: Gnoni Valentina , Zoccolella Stefano , Giugno Alessia , Urso Daniele , Tamburrino Ludovica , Filardi Marco , Logroscino Giancarlo
Published: July 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects both motor and non-motor functions, including sleep regulation. Emerging evidence suggests that the hypothalamus, a brain region that plays a critical role in sleep-wake regulation, may be involved in the pathogenesis of ALS-related sleep disturbances. In this review, we have summarized results of studies on sleep disorders in ALS published between 2000 and 2023. Thereafter, we examined possible mechanisms by which hypothalamic dysfunctions may contribute to ALS-related sleep disturbances. Achieving a deeper understanding of the relationship between hypothalamic dysfunction and sleep disturbances in ALS can help improve the overall management of ALS and reduce the burden on patients and their families.
Relationship between digital exclusion and cognitive impairment in Chinese adults
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Wang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Hua , Pei Minyue , Li Nan
Published: July 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between digital exclusion, such as neither mobile payments nor WeChat use, and cognitive impairment in Chinese individuals aged 45 and older.

Methods

A population-based cross-sectional study utilizing data from the fourth national survey of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). In the fourth wave of CHARLS, 10,325 participants aged 45 and older with complete information were included in this analysis. Self-reported mobile payments and WeChat usage constituted our exposure. Cognitive impairment was the primary outcome. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess the relationships between cognitive impairment risk and digital exclusion.

Results

Data were analyzed from 10,325 participants [mean (SD) age, 60.3 (9.1) years; 44.8% women], including 1,232 individuals with cognitive impairment and 9,093 cognitively normal individuals. The overall proportion of users who did not use either mobile payment or WeChat and those who only used WeChat were 81.3 and 6.7%, for cognitively impaired individuals 95.0 and 3.1%, and for cognitively normal individuals 79.5 and 7.2% [neither WeChat nor mobile payments vs. control unadjusted odds ratio (OR), 8.16; P < 0.001; only WeChat use vs. control unadjusted OR, 2.91; P < 0.001]. Participants who did not use either WeChat or mobile payments had an elevated risk for cognitive impairment after adjusting for a number of covariates (neither WeChat nor mobile payments vs. control adjusted OR, 3.48; P < 0.001; only WeChat use vs. control adjusted OR, 1.86; P = 0.021).

Conclusion

Our study reveals a positive correlation between digital exclusion and cognitive impairment in Chinese adults, providing insights for promoting active digital integration among older adults. Further longitudinal research is needed to further validate this hypothesis.
Effects of sex and estrous cycle on intravenous oxycodone self-administration and the reinstatement of oxycodone-seeking behavior in rats
Authors: Hinds Nicole M. , Wojtas Ireneusz D. , Gallagher Corinne A. , Corbett Claire M. , Manvich Daniel F.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The increasing misuse of both prescription and illicit opioids has culminated in a national healthcare crisis in the United States. Oxycodone is among the most widely prescribed and misused opioid pain relievers and has been associated with a high risk for transition to compulsive opioid use. Here, we sought to examine potential sex differences and estrous cycle-dependent effects on the reinforcing efficacy of oxycodone, as well as on stress-induced or cue-induced oxycodone-seeking behavior, using intravenous (IV) oxycodone self-administration and reinstatement procedures.

Methods

In experiment 1, adult male and female Long-Evans rats were trained to self-administer 0.03 mg/kg/inf oxycodone according to a fixed-ratio 1 schedule of reinforcement in daily 2-h sessions, and a dose-response function was subsequently determined (0.003–0.03 mg/kg/inf). In experiment 2, a separate group of adult male and female Long-Evans rats were trained to self-administer 0.03 mg/kg/inf oxycodone for 8 sessions, followed by 0.01 mg/kg/inf oxycodone for 10 sessions. Responding was then extinguished, followed by sequential footshock-induced and cue-induced reinstatement tests.

Results

In the dose-response experiment, oxycodone produced a typical inverted U-shape function with 0.01 mg/kg/inf representing the maximally effective dose in both sexes. No sex differences were detected in the reinforcing efficacy of oxycodone. In the second experiment, the reinforcing effects of 0.01–0.03 mg//kg/inf oxycodone were significantly attenuated in females during proestrus/estrus as compared to metestrus/diestrus phases of the estrous cycle. Neither males nor females displayed significant footshock-induced reinstatement of oxycodone seeking, but both sexes exhibited significant cue-induced reinstatement of oxycodone seeking at magnitudes that did not differ either by sex or by estrous cycle phase.

Discussion

These results confirm and extend previous work suggesting that sex does not robustly influence the primary reinforcing effects of oxycodone nor the reinstatement of oxycodone-seeking behavior. However, our findings reveal for the first time that the reinforcing efficacy of IV oxycodone varies across the estrous cycle in female rats.
Review of adaptive control for stroke lower limb exoskeleton rehabilitation robot based on motion intention recognition
Authors: Su Dongnan , Hu Zhigang , Wu Jipeng , Shang Peng , Luo Zhaohui
Published: July 2023

Stroke is a significant cause of disability worldwide, and stroke survivors often experience severe motor impairments. Lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots provide support and balance for stroke survivors and assist them in performing rehabilitation training tasks, which can effectively improve their quality of life during the later stages of stroke recovery. Lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots have become a hot topic in rehabilitation therapy research. This review introduces traditional rehabilitation assessment methods, explores the possibility of lower limb exoskeleton robots combining sensors and electrophysiological signals to assess stroke survivors' rehabilitation objectively, summarizes standard human-robot coupling models of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots in recent years, and critically introduces adaptive control models based on motion intent recognition for lower limb exoskeleton robots. This provides new design ideas for the future combination of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots with rehabilitation assessment, motion assistance, rehabilitation treatment, and adaptive control, making the rehabilitation assessment process more objective and addressing the shortage of rehabilitation therapists to some extent. Finally, the article discusses the current limitations of adaptive control of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots for stroke survivors and proposes new research directions.
Regulation of Schwann cell proliferation and migration via miR-195-5p-induced Crebl2 downregulation upon peripheral nerve damage
Authors: Li Shiying , Wu Wenshuang , Zhang Jing , Chen Yu , Wu Yumeng , Wang Xinghui
Published: July 2023

Background

Schwann cells acquire a repair phenotype upon peripheral nerve injury (PNI), generating an optimal microenvironment that drives nerve repair. Multiple microRNAs (miRNAs) show differential expression in the damaged peripheral nerve, with critical regulatory functions in Schwann cell features. This study examined the time-dependent expression of miR-195-5p following PNI and demonstrated a marked dysregulation of miR-195-5p in the damaged sciatic nerve.

Methods

CCK-8 and EdU assays were used to evaluate the effect of miR-195-5 on Schwann cell viability and proliferation. Schwann cell migration was tested using Transwell and wound healing assays. The miR-195-5p agomir injection experiment was used to evaluate the function of miR-195-5p in vivo. The potential regulators and effects of miR-195-5p were identified through bioinformatics evaluation. The relationship between miR-195-5p and its target was tested using double fluorescence reporter gene analysis.

Results

In Schwann cells, high levels of miR-195-5p decreased viability and proliferation, while suppressed levels had the opposite effects. However, elevated miR-195-5p promoted Schwann cell migration determined by the Transwell and wound healing assays. In vivo injection of miR-195-5p agomir into rat sciatic nerves promote axon elongation after peripheral nerve injury by affecting Schwann cell distribution and myelin preservation. Bioinformatic assessment further revealed potential regulators and effectors for miR-195-5p, which were utilized to build a miR-195-5p-centered competing endogenous RNA network. Furthermore, miR-195-5p directly targeted cAMP response element binding protein-like 2 (Crebl2) mRNA via its 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) and downregulated Crebl2. Mechanistically, miR-195-5p modulated Schwann cell functions by repressing Crebl2.

Conclusion

The above findings suggested a vital role for miR-195-5p/Crebl2 in the regulation of Schwann cell phenotype after sciatic nerve damage, which may contribute to peripheral nerve regeneration.