bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tinjauan Proses Pencucian Peralatan Makan dan Minum dan Kualitas Bakteriologis di Warung Makan Pasar Inpres Manonda
Authors: Sasmita Hanum , Christine Christine
Published: November 2023

Latar Belakang: Kebersihan alat makan merupakan bagian yang sangat penting dan berpengaruh terhadap kualitas makanan dan minuman. Alat makan yang tidak di cuci dengan bersih dapat menyebabkan organisme atau bibit penyakit yang tertinggal akan berkembang biak dan mencemari makanan yang akan di letakkan di atasnya. Tujuan: Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah diketahuinya proses pencucian peralatan makan dan minum dan kualitas bakteriologi di warung makan Pasar Inpres Manonda. Metode: Metode penelitian ini adalah deskriptif dengan pendekatan observasional dengan populasi sebanyak 10 warung makan dan sampel dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 5 warung makan yang akan di ambil secara random sampling peralatan makan dan minumnya sebanyak 20 alat makan dan minum dan 5 serbet di warung makan pasar Inpres Manonda. Hasil: Hasil penelitian proses pencucian pelaratan makan dan minum di 5 warung makan kurang memenuhi syarat dengan nilai presentasi <70%. Pengujian pada 25 sampel (100%) bernilai positif yang menunjukan seluruh sampel terdapat kuman. Kesimpulan: proses pencucian peralatan makan dan minum 5 warung makan yang berada di pasar Inpres Manonda didapatkan hasil yang kurang baik dan angka kuman pada peralatan makan dan minum tidak memenuhi syarat.
Recently recycled synaptic vesicles use multi-cytoskeletal transport and differential presynaptic capture probability to establish a retrograde net flux during ISVE in central neurons
Authors: Parkes Mason , Landers Nathan L. , Gramlich Michael W.
Published: November 2023

Presynapses locally recycle synaptic vesicles to efficiently communicate information. During use and recycling, proteins on the surface of synaptic vesicles break down and become less efficient. In order to maintain efficient presynaptic function and accommodate protein breakdown, new proteins are regularly produced in the soma and trafficked to presynaptic locations where they replace older protein-carrying vesicles. Maintaining a balance of new proteins and older proteins is thus essential for presynaptic maintenance and plasticity. While protein production and turnover have been extensively studied, it is still unclear how older synaptic vesicles are trafficked back to the soma for recycling in order to maintain balance. In the present study, we use a combination of fluorescence microscopy, hippocampal cell cultures, and computational analyses to determine the mechanisms that mediate older synaptic vesicle trafficking back to the soma. We show that synaptic vesicles, which have recently undergone exocytosis, can differentially utilize either the microtubule or the actin cytoskeleton networks. We show that axonally trafficked vesicles traveling with higher speeds utilize the microtubule network and are less likely to be captured by presynapses, while slower vesicles utilize the actin network and are more likely to be captured by presynapses. We also show that retrograde-driven vesicles are less likely to be captured by a neighboring presynapse than anterograde-driven vesicles. We show that the loss of synaptic vesicle with bound molecular motor myosin V is the mechanism that differentiates whether vesicles will utilize the microtubule or actin networks. Finally, we present a theoretical framework of how our experimentally observed retrograde vesicle trafficking bias maintains the balance with previously observed rates of new vesicle trafficking from the soma.
Mitochondrial quality control in health and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Atici Asli E. , Crother Timothy R. , Noval Rivas Magali
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the primary causes of mortality worldwide. An optimal mitochondrial function is central to supplying tissues with high energy demand, such as the cardiovascular system. In addition to producing ATP as a power source, mitochondria are also heavily involved in adaptation to environmental stress and fine-tuning tissue functions. Mitochondrial quality control (MQC) through fission, fusion, mitophagy, and biogenesis ensures the clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria and preserves mitochondrial homeostasis in cardiovascular tissues. Furthermore, mitochondria generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which trigger the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and regulate cell survival. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in multiple CVDs, including ischemia-reperfusion (I/R), atherosclerosis, heart failure, cardiac hypertrophy, hypertension, diabetic and genetic cardiomyopathies, and Kawasaki Disease (KD). Thus, MQC is pivotal in promoting cardiovascular health. Here, we outline the mechanisms of MQC and discuss the current literature on mitochondrial adaptation in CVDs.
Clinical features and outcomes of in-hospital cardiac arrest in code blue events: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Akatsuka Masayuki , Tatsumi Hiroomi , Masuda Yoshiki
Published: November 2023

Background

In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is a critical medical event with outcomes less researched compared to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. This retrospective observational study aimed to investigate key aspects of IHCA epidemiology and prognosis in patients with Code Blue activation.

Methods

This retrospective observational study enrolled patients with Code Blue events in our hospital between January 2010 and October 2019. Participant characteristics, including age and sex, and IHCA characteristics, including the time of cardiac arrest, witnessed event, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), initial shockable rhythm, vital signs at 1 and 6 h before IHCA, survival to hospital discharge (SHD), and the cardiac arrest survival postresuscitation in-hospital (CASPRI) score were included in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses with SHD as the primary endpoint.

Results

From the 293 Code Blue events that were activated during the study period, 81 participants were enrolled. Overall, the SHD rate was 28.4%, the median CPR duration was 14 (interquartile range, 6–28) min, and the rate of initial shockable rhythm was 19.8%. There were significant intergroup differences between the SHD and non-SHD groups in the CPR duration, shockable rhythm, and CASPRI score on univariate logistic regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the CASPRI score was the most accurate predictive factor for SHD (OR = 0.98, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

The CASPRI score is associated with SHD in patients with IHCA during Code Blue events. Therefore, the CASPRI score of IHCA patients potentially constitutes a simple, useful adjunctive tool for the management of post-cardiac arrest syndrome.
Basic logical operation skills and logical reasoning competences of university students in a Western region of Romania
Authors: Debrenti Edith , Bordás Andrea
Published: November 2023

Empirical research results show that the system of logical operations and conclusion schemes does not become complete even in adulthood. Although we know other logical models besides the classical two-valued logical reasoning model, in higher education for students it is essential to know and apply the rules of the classical reasoning model. Proofs, reasoning and refutation are necessary in the case of several subjects, as scientific language uses many of logical operations. Our 2022 end-of-year research measured general logical basic-knowledge and operations in everyday life, mathematical, physical, chemical and biological contexts based on 246 university students’ online testing. The students completed the tasks which required the correct conclusion in the highest proportion (69.02%), followed by the interpretation of ‘at most’/‘at least’ (63.41%), and at least the negation (the negation of the ‘at least’, of ‘exists’ and of ‘for all’) (29.91%). Our results show that the correct interpretation did not become dominant in the case of all logical operations for these students. The everyday life problems were solved correctly by the highest percentage of students (70.05%), followed by problems in biological, physical and mathematical context. They were least successful (28.04%) in solving logical problems related to chemistry. This shows that our data cannot be analyzed without semantic content. Based on different statistical tests, we did not find a significant difference in performance between genders, but according to the human capital theory students of more highly educated mothers performed significantly better.
Thermal and entropy behavior of sustainable solar energy in water solar collectors due to non-Newtonian power-law hybrid nanofluids
Authors: Mabrouk S. M. , Mahmoud Tarek A. , Kabeel A. E. , Rashed A. S. , Essa Fadl A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Nanofluids, hybrid nanofluid possesses thermophysical features that boost the fluid performance. This research work is motivated by the utilization of water solar collectors that incorporate non-Newtonian, power-law hybrid nanofluid in a three-dimensional model, considering the two-phase model.

Method: The primary objective of this study is to transform the governing equations of the flow model into a set of ordinary differential equations by employing the three-parameters group technique. Based on the innovative discoveries, two models incorporating new associated functions have been successfully developed for two distinct scenarios characterized by the power-law index, n. The impact of physical factors on the velocity profile, temperature distribution, concentration field, and entropy output of the system is clearly illustrated through a variety of graphs.

Results: The results indicated that the inclination angle of 20° had the best thermal characteristics compared to other inclinations. The entropy generation reached its maximum value at temperature difference of 13 K due to irreversibility of the system, which indicates that the system is more efficient.

Discussion: Furthermore, the increasing percentage in Nusselt number is predicted to be 28.18% when the Prandtl number is taken a range. The Sherwood number enhanced up to 18.61% with a range of Brownian motion. A quantitative comparison is conducted between the present results and the literature in order to validate the superior efficiency of the used method.
Energy trading model for multi-microgrid energy storage alliance based on Nash negotiation
Authors: Qiao Huiting , Wu Liangzheng , Wen Shangyong , Zhang Jigang
Published: November 2023

With the continuous development of the electricity market and the gradual expansion of the number and scale of participation in market transactions, the traditional energy trading model has limited the formation of a competitive pattern of multi-agents. In this paper, a new multi-microgrid energy storage alliance energy trading model based on Nash negotiation is proposed. This model takes energy storage, multi-microgrid, and superior power grid enterprises as the main participants and establishes an energy market trading model with “buy–sell” cooperation and competition coexisting within the alliance based on Nash negotiation theory. Through the interaction of electricity between different entities, energy conversion and complementary utilization are increased, achieving reasonable allocation of resources, enhancing the overall flexibility of the alliance, and promoting the local consumption of a high proportion of new energy. The simulation results of the example show that the energy trading model based on Nash negotiation can fully leverage the initiative of demand-side participation in scheduling and improve the utilization rate of energy storage systems while ensuring the payment benefits of all participating entities, which can provide technical support for energy complementarity among multiple entities and provide new technological paths for the sustainable development of energy sharing mechanisms.
Enhancing ocean environment prediction in Yellow Sea through targeted observation using ocean acoustic tomography
Authors: Baolong Cui , Jingyi Liu , Wuhong Guo , Lianglong Da
Published: November 2023

Ocean Acoustic Tomography (OAT) is an efficient and economical marine acoustic observation technique. Targeted observation is an appealing procedure to reduce the uncertainty of ocean environment prediction through additional observation. This study aimed to assess the validity of OAT as an observation method for targeted observation. OAT based on Niche Genetic Algorithm was employed to extract sound speed and temperature profiles from acoustic transmission time, utilizing data from the 2019 Yellow Sea experiment. The inversion results were compared with measurement data, which are found to be accurate and reliable. To further evaluate OAT as targeted observation method, the vertical bias structure of OAT was added on synchronous measurement data in the sensitive area of targeted observation to simulate OAT observation in sensitive area. This simulated data was then incorporated into a 3D-Var assimilation system to improve the short-term prediction of the target region. Comparing the predictions derived with the measurement data at the verification time, it shows that the simulated OAT observation improved the quality of target region prediction, indicating that OAT can be an effective observation method for targeted observation. An Observing System Simulation Experiment was conducted to assess the impact of OAT characteristics on prediction improvement. The results show that both adding observation nodes and extending the observation duration have positive effects, while extending the observation duration performs better.
PHI-SMFE: spatial multi-scale feature extract neural network based on physical heterogeneous interaction for solving passive scalar advection in a 2-D unsteady flow
Authors: Yuan Yuchen , Song Ning , Nie Jie , Shi Xiaomeng , Chen Jingjian , Wen Qi , Wei Zhiqiang
Published: November 2023

Fluid dynamic calculations play a crucial role in understanding marine biochemical dynamic processes, impacting the behavior, interactions, and distribution of biochemical components in aquatic environments. The numerical simulation of fluid dynamics is a challenging task, particularly in real-world scenarios where fluid motion is highly complex. Traditional numerical simulation methods enhance accuracy by increasing the resolution of the computational grid. However, this approach comes with a higher computational demand. Recent advancements have introduced an alternative by leveraging deep learning techniques for fluid dynamic simulations. These methods utilize discretized learned coefficients to achieve high-precision solutions on low-resolution grids, effectively reducing the computational burden while maintaining accuracy. Yet, existing fluid numerical simulation methods based on deep learning are limited by their single-scale analysis of spatially correlated physical fields, which fails to capture the diverse scale characteristics inherent in flow fields governed by complex laws in different physical space. Additionally, these models lack an effective approach to enhance correlation interactions among dynamic fields within the same system. To tackle these challenges, we propose the Spatial Multi-Scale Feature Extract Neural Network based on Physical Heterogeneous Interaction (PHI-SMFE). The PHI module is designed to extract heterogeneity and interaction information from diverse dynamic fields, while the SMFE module focuses on capturing multi-scale features in fluid dynamic fields. We utilize channel-biased convolution to implement a separation strategy, reducing the processing of redundant feature information. Furthermore, the traditional solution module based on the finite volume method is integrated into the network to facilitate the numerical solution of the discretized dynamic field in subsequent time steps. Comparative analysis with the current state-of-the-art model reveals that our proposed method offers a 41% increase in simulation accuracy and a 12.7% decrease in inference time during the iterative evolution of unsteady flow. These results underscore the superior performance of our model in terms of both simulation accuracy and computational speedup, establishing it as a state-of-the-art solution.
Porous and highly responsive polymeric fabricated nanometrices for solubility enhancement of acyclovir; characterization and toxicological evaluation
Authors: Umar Ayesha , Barkat Kashif , Hussain Shah Syed Nisar , Ashraf Muhammad Umer , Badshah Syed Faisal , Ali Akhtar , Anjum Irfan , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Nafidi Hiba-Allah , Dauelbait Musaab , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Solubility is one of the major factors which affects several therapeutic mioeties in terms of their therapeutic efficacy. In the current study, we presented a porous and amorphous nanometrices system for the enhancement of the solubility of acyclovir. The polymeric network was fabricated by crosslinking polyethylene glycol-6000, polycaprolactone, and β-cyclodextrin with methacrylic acid by optimizing free radical polymerization technique using methylene bisacrylamide as a crosslinking agent. The formulated nanometrices were then characterized by zetasizer, FTIR, PXRD, Scanning electron microscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis, swelling, sol-gel fraction, drug loading, stability, solubility, and in-vitro dissolution analysis. Since the formulated system has to be administered orally, therefore to determine the in-vivo biocompatibility, nanometrices were administered orally to experimental animals. SEM images provided a rough and porous structure while PXRD showed an amorphous diffractogram of the unloaded and loaded nanometrices. Moreover, the particle size of the optimum loaded formulation was 25 nm higher than unloaded nanometrices due to the repulsion of the loaded drug. A significant loading of the drug with enhanced solubility and dissolution profiles was observed for the poorly soluble drug. The dissolution profile was quite satisfactory as compared to the marketed brand of drug which depicted that the solubility of the drug has been enhanced. Toxicity study conducted on rabbits confirmed the biocompatibility of the nanometrices. The systematic method of preparation, enhanced solubility and high dissolution profile of the formulated nanometrices may be proved as a promising technique to enhance the solubility of poorly aqueous soluble therapeutic agents.
Association between the peripheral neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhu Nan , Song Yongfeng , Zhang Chen , Wang Kai , Han Junming
Published: November 2023

Background

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes frequently co-occur, imposing a tremendous medical burden. A convenient and effective MASLD indicator will be beneficial to the early diagnosis of disease. In the clinical laboratory, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a readily accessible hematological marker. This study designed to determine the relation between the NLR and MASLD in type 2 diabetes patients.

Methods

Data from 1,151 type 2 diabetes inpatients without infections, malignancy or hematological diseases who were recruited from 2016 through 2022 were analyzed in the retrospective study. The patients were stratified into NLR tertiles (total population: high NLR level > 2.18; middle NLR level: 1.58–2.18; low NLR level < 1.58), with additional subgroup stratification by sex (men: high NLR level > 2.21; middle NLR level: 1.60–2.21; and low NLR level < 1.60; women: high NLR level > 2.12; middle NLR level: 1.53–2.12; and low NLR level < 1.53). After adjusting for confounders (age, sex, weight, Glu, ALT and TG) associated with MASLD, the odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) of the NLR were obtained by using a binary logistic regression analysis to verify the correlation between the NLR and MASLD.

Results

Compared to non-MASLD patients, MASLD patients had higher weight, blood glucose, insulin and C-peptide, worse liver function (higher ALT and GGT), lower HDL (all p < 0.05), and lower NLR (p < 0.001). The prevalence of MASLD was 43.75% (high NLR level), 55.21% (middle NLR level) and 52.22% (low NLR level) (p < 0.05). Compared to those of the high NLR level, the adjusted ORs and 95% CIs of the middle and low NLR levels were 1.624 (95% CI: 1.141–2.311) and 1.456 (95% CI: 1.025–2.068), for all subjects, while they were 1.640 (95% CI: 1.000–2.689) and 1.685 (95% CI: 1.026–2.766), for men.

Conclusion

A low NLR is associated with a greater risk of MASLD.
Pseudorabies gD protein protects mice and piglets against lethal doses of pseudorabies virus
Authors: Zhao Mengpo , Chen Jing , Luo Shengjun , Yan Renhe , Zhang Pian , Ren Zhaowen , Chen Xiaofan , Wang Gang , Xiang Hua , Cai Rujian , Huang Yuan , Li Na , Li Hongwei , Yuan Zi-Guo , Wang Xiaohu
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Pseudorabies (PR) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the pseudorabies virus (PRV), which can cause disease in a wide range of domestic and wild animals. Studies have shown that new mutant strains have emerged in pig farms in many regions and that commercial inactivated and live attenuated vaccines are becoming less effective at protecting pigs.

Methods

Porcine pseudorabies glycoprotein D (gD) gene (GenBank: QEY95774.1) with hexa-His tag to the C terminus for further purification processes was cloned into the lentiviral expression plasmid pLV-CMV-eGFP by restriction enzyme, the resulting plasmid was designated as pLV-CMV-gD. HEK-293T cells with robust and stable expression of recombinant gD protein was established by infection with recombinant lentivirus vector pLV-CMV-gD. We expressed porcine pseudorabies virus gD protein using HEK-293T cells.

Results

We describe in this study that individual gD proteins produced by a mammalian cell expression system are well immunogenic and stimulate high levels of PRV-specific and neutralizing antibodies in mice and piglets. All mice and piglets survived lethal doses of PRV, significantly reducing the amount of PRV virus in piglets’ lymph nodes, lungs, spleen, and other tissues. It also significantly reduced the time cycle and amount of viral excretion from piglets to the environment through the nasal and anal cavities.

Discussion

The results suggest that PRV gD protein is expected to be a potential candidate for the preparation of genetically engineered PR vaccines for the prevention of PRV infection and the control of PR epidemics.
Brain microvascular endothelial cells possess a second cilium that arises from the daughter centriole
Authors: Thirugnanam Karthikeyan , Gupta Ankan , Nunez Francisco , Prabhudesai Shubhangi , Pan Amy Y. , Nauli Surya M. , Ramchandran Ramani
Published: November 2023

Primary cilia from the brain microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) are specialized cell-surface organelles involved in mediating sensory perception, cell signaling, and vascular stability. Immunofluorescence (IF) analysis of human primary brain microvascular ECs reveals two cilia per cell. To confirm the in vitro observation of the two-cilia phenotype in human primary brain ECs, ECs isolated from mouse brain were cultured and stained for cilium. Indeed, brain ECs from a ciliopathic mouse (polycystic kidney disease or Pkd2−/−) also possess more than one cilium. Primary cilium emerges from the mother centriole. Centriole analysis by IF suggests that in brain ECs, markers for the mother and daughter centrioles stain both cilia, suggesting that the second cilium in brain ECs arises from the daughter centriole. Further quantification of cilia size in brain ECs revealed that cilia arising from the mother centriole are bigger in size compared with cilia from the daughter centriole. Cell cycle analyses using immunoblotting and flow cytometry suggest that the ciliary proteins ARL13B and IFT88 involved in brain EC ciliogenesis are highly expressed only in the G0/G1 and S phases of the cell cycle. The IF analyses of cells arrested at different cell cycle stages indicate that the two-cilia phenotype is highly specific to the G0/G1 phase. Our findings suggest that in addition to the mother centriole, the daughter centriole also plays a role in ciliogenesis in primary cultured ECs.
The efficacy and safety of anti-Aβ agents for delaying cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jiaxuan , Wu Xin , Tan Xin , Wang Shixin , Qu Ruisi , Wu Xiaofeng , Chen Zhouqing , Wang Zhong , Chen Gang
Published: November 2023

Background

This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of amyloid-β (Aβ) targeted therapies for delaying cognitive deterioration in Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published before January 18, 2023.

Results

We pooled 33,689 participants from 42 studies. The meta-analysis showed no difference between anti-Aβ drugs and placebo in the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog), and anti-Aβ drugs were associated with a high risk of adverse events [ADAS-Cog: MDs = −0.08 (−0.32 to 0.15), p = 0.4785; AEs: RR = 1.07 (1.02 to 1.11), p = 0.0014]. Monoclonal antibodies outperformed the placebo in delaying cognitive deterioration as measured by ADAS-Cog, Clinical Dementia Rating–Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study–Activities of Daily Living (ADCS-ADL), without increasing the risk of adverse events [ADAS-Cog: MDs = −0.55 (−0.89 to 0.21), p = 0.001; CDR-SB: MDs = −0.19 (−0.29 to −0.10), p < 0.0001; MMSE: MDs = 0.19 (0.00 to 0.39), p = 0.05; ADCS-ADL: MDs = 1.26 (0.84 to 1.68), p < 0.00001]. Intravenous immunoglobulin and γ-secretase modulators (GSM) increased cognitive decline in CDR-SB [MDs = 0.45 (0.17 to 0.74), p = 0.002], but had acceptable safety profiles in AD patients. γ-secretase inhibitors (GSI) increased cognitive decline in ADAS-Cog, and also in MMSE and ADCS-ADL. BACE-1 inhibitors aggravated cognitive deterioration in the outcome of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). GSI and BACE-1 inhibitors caused safety concerns. No evidence indicates active Aβ immunotherapy, MPAC, or tramiprosate have effects on cognitive function and tramiprosate is associated with serious adverse events.

Conclusion

Current evidence does not show that anti-Aβ drugs have an effect on cognitive performance in AD patients. However, monoclonal antibodies can delay cognitive decline in AD. Development of other types of anti-Aβ drugs should be cautious.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/), identifier CRD42023391596.
Natural image restoration based on multi-scale group sparsity residual constraints
Authors: Ning Wan , Sun Dong , Gao Qingwei , Lu Yixiang , Zhu De
Published: November 2023

The Group Sparse Representation (GSR) model shows excellent potential in various image restoration tasks. In this study, we propose a novel Multi-Scale Group Sparse Residual Constraint Model (MS-GSRC) which can be applied to various inverse problems, including denoising, inpainting, and compressed sensing (CS). Our new method involves the following three steps: (1) finding similar patches with an overlapping scheme for the input degraded image using a multi-scale strategy, (2) performing a group sparse coding on these patches with low-rank constraints to get an initial representation vector, and (3) under the Bayesian maximum a posteriori (MAP) restoration framework, we adopt an alternating minimization scheme to solve the corresponding equation and reconstruct the target image finally. Simulation experiments demonstrate that our proposed model outperforms in terms of both objective image quality and subjective visual quality compared to several state-of-the-art methods.
A 12-week lifestyle intervention: effects on fatigue, fear, and nutritional status in children with a Fontan circulation
Authors: Scheffers L. E. , Helbing W. A. , Pereira T. , Walet S. , Utens E. M. W. J. , Dulfer K. , van den Berg L. E.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Children and adolescents with a Fontan circulation are less physically active compared to healthy peers. In the current study, effects of a 12-week lifestyle intervention on fatigue, fears regarding exercise, caloric intake, rest energy expenditure (REE), and body composition were measured in children with a Fontan circulation.

Methods

This study was a semi-cross-over randomized controlled trial. The lifestyle intervention consisted of a 12-week high-weight resistance training (three supervised training sessions a week) supported by high-protein diet (>2 g/kg) and tailored recommended caloric intake. Fatigue (measured by the validated PedsQol Multidimensional Fatigue Scale), fears regarding exercise (measured on a fear thermometer), REE (measured using indirect calorimetry), caloric intake and body composition using air displacement plethysmography, and four-skinfold method were measured before and after the intervention and control period.

Results

Twenty-seven pediatric Fontan patients, median age 12.9 years (IQR: 10.5–16.2), of the included 28 patients successfully completed the program. Before training, both child- and parent-reported levels of fatigue were significantly worse on all domains (general, sleep/rest, and cognitive fatigue) compared to healthy peers. After training, parent-reported fatigue significantly improved on the general and cognitive fatigue domains [effect size +16 points (7–25), p < 0.001, and +10 points (2–17), p = 0.015, compared to the control period]. Before training, fear regarding exercise scored on the fear thermometer was low for both children and parents (median score 1 and 2, respectively, on a scale of 0–8). After training, child-reported fear decreased further compared to the control period [effect size −1.4 points (−2.3 to −0.6), p = 0.001]. At baseline, children had increased REE +12% compared to reference values, which did not change after exercise. Children ate an average of 637 calories below recommended intake based on REE, caloric deficit became smaller after the intervention, and protein intake increased compared to the control period [−388 calories (−674 to −102), p = 0.008, and +15 g (0.4–30), p = 0.044]. Body fat percentage did not change significantly.

Conclusion

A 12-week lifestyle intervention improved parent-reported fatigue symptoms in the children, further decreased child-reported fears, and increased caloric and protein intake.
Trends in COVID-19 vaccine administration across visit types in a safety net pediatric practice during the first year of authorization
Authors: Ryan Grace W. , Goulding Melissa , Beeler Angela L. , Nazarian Beverly L. , Pbert Lori , Rosal Milagros C. , Lemon Stephenie C.
Published: November 2023

We explored patterns of COVID-19 vaccination across pediatric visit types using electronic health record data from 7/1/2021 through 7/25/2022 in a pediatric safety-net clinic. We generated frequencies and descriptive statistics for patient demographic and vaccine administration variables. Analyses were stratified into age subgroups of 5-to-11-year-olds and 12- to-17-year-olds. 1,409 children received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 2,197 doses were administered in this first year of vaccine delivery. Most vaccines given were first doses in the series (45%), followed by second doses (38%), and then booster doses (17%). First doses tended to be given at well-child (42%) or nurse visits (48%), while second doses were almost entirely given at nurse visits (87%) and booster doses at well-child visits (58%). Efforts to optimize COVID-19 vaccination could leverage clinic workflow systems to provide reminder prompts for vaccination for scheduling future doses and identify strategies to facilitate vaccination at non-well child visits, particularly for booster doses.
Mechanisms of action of the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax in multiple myeloma: a literature review
Authors: Cao Qiang , Wu Xinyan , Zhang Qi , Gong Junling , Chen Yuquan , You Yanwei , Shen Jun , Qiang Yi , Cao Guangzhu
Published: November 2023

Abnormal cellular apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Multiple Myeloma (MM). Over the years, BCL-2, a crucial anti-apoptotic protein, has garnered significant attention in MM therapeutic research. Venetoclax (VTC), a small-molecule targeted agent, effectively inhibits BCL-2, promoting the programmed death of cancerous cells. While VTC has been employed to treat various hematological malignancies, its particular efficacy in MM has showcased its potential for broader clinical applications. In this review, we delve into the intricacies of how VTC modulates apoptosis in MM cells by targeting BCL-2 and the overarching influence of the BCL-2 protein family in MM apoptosis regulation. Our findings highlight the nuanced interplay between VTC, BCL-2, and MM, offering insights that may pave the way for optimizing therapeutic strategies. Through this comprehensive analysis, we aim to lay a solid groundwork for future explorations into VTC’s clinical applications and the profound effects of BCL-2 on cellular apoptosis.
Role of signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family of receptors in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis: insights and application
Authors: Zheng Yixin , Zhao Jianan , Zhou Mi , Wei Kai , Jiang Ping , Xu Lingxia , Chang Cen , Shan Yu , Xu Linshuai , Shi Yiming , Schrodi Steven J. , Guo Shicheng , He Dongyi
Published: November 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation and joint damage. The signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAMF) family of receptors are expressed on various hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells and can regulate both immune cell activation and cytokine production. Altered expression of certain SLAMF receptors contributes to aberrant immune responses in RA. In RA, SLAMF1 is upregulated on T cells and may promote inflammation by participating in immune cell-mediated responses. SLAMF2 and SLAMF4 are involved in regulating monocyte tumor necrosis factor production and promoting inflammation. SLAMF7 activates multiple inflammatory pathways in macrophages to drive inflammatory gene expression. SLAMF8 inhibition can reduce inflammation in RA by blocking ERK/MMPs signaling. Of note, there are differences in SLAMF receptor (SFR) expression between normal and arthritic joint tissues, suggesting a role as potential diagnostic biomarkers. This review summarizes recent advances on the roles of SLAMF receptors 1, 2, 4, 7, and 8 in RA pathogenesis. However, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of SLAMF regulation of immune cells in RA. Understanding interactions between SLAMF receptors and immune cells will help identify selective strategies for targeting SLAMF signaling without compromising normal immunity. Overall, the SLAMF gene family holds promise as a target for precision medicine in RA, but additional investigation of the underlying immunological mechanisms is needed. Targeting SLAMF receptors presents opportunities for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to dampen damaging immune-mediated inflammation in RA.
Towards a compact all-optical terahertz-driven electron source
Authors: Xu Hanxun , Li Renkai , Yan Lixin , Du Yingchao , Tian Qili , Huang Wenhui , Tang Chuanxiang
Published: November 2023

In this study, we propose a physical design of a compact all-optical terahertz (THz)-driven electron source. The 300-mm accelerator beamline, powered by a Joule-level laser system, can be easily integrated into the tabletop scale. A THz-driven electron gun, a tapered dielectric-loaded cylindrical waveguide, THz-driven bunch compressors, and permanent magnetic solenoids (PMSs) have been designed and optimized. Dynamic simulations show that the electron source can deliver 19 fC electron beams at 3 MeV, with a normalized transverse emittance of 0.079 π.mm.mrad. A minimum relative energy spread of 0.04% or a minimum root-mean-square (RMS) bunch length of 6.1 fs can be achieved. Sensitivity analysis shows that the THz-driven electron source can effectively work with a laser power jitter within 1.5%. Simulation studies also reveal the potential of the designed THz-driven electron source for achieving high-quality ultrafast electron diffraction (UED). Prototype THz-driven electron guns have been fabricated and are currently under testing, and more comprehensive results will be reported in future works.
Comparative phenomics: a new approach to study heterochrony
Authors: McCoy Jamie C. S. , Spicer John I. , Rundle Simon D. , Tills Oliver
Published: November 2023

Understanding the links between development and evolution is one of the major challenges of biology. ‘Heterochronies’, evolutionary alterations in the timings of development are posited as a key mechanism of evolutionary change, but their quantification requires gross simplification of organismal development. Consequently, how changes in event timings influence development more broadly is poorly understood. Here, we measure organismal development as spectra of energy in pixel values of video, creating high-dimensional landscapes integrating development of all visible form and function. This approach we termed ‘Energy proxy traits’ (EPTs) is applied alongside previously identified heterochronies in three freshwater pulmonate molluscs (Lymnaea stagnalis, Radix balthica and Physella acuta). EPTs were calculated from time-lapse video of embryonic development to construct a continuous functional time series. High-dimensional transitions in phenotype aligned with major sequence heterochronies between species. Furthermore, differences in event timings between conspecifics were associated with changes in high-dimensional phenotypic space. We reveal EPTs as a powerful approach to considering the evolutionary importance of alterations to developmental event timings. Reimagining the phenotype as energy spectra enabled continuous quantification of developmental changes in high-dimensional phenotypic space, rather than measurement of timings of discrete events. This approach has the possibility to transform how we study heterochrony and development more generally.
The physiological functions and therapeutic potential of exosomes during the development and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Zhang Zhenghong , Shi Congjian , Wang Zhengchao
Published: November 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a very common disease of gynecological endocrine, accompanied by irregular menstruation, hyperandrogenism, metabolic abnormalities, reproductive disorders and other clinical symptoms, which seriously endangers women’s physical and mental health, but its etiology and pathogenesis are not completely clear. Recently, the contribution of exosomes to the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases in the biomedical field has attracted much attention, including PCOS. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles secreted by cells, containing various biologically active molecules such as cell-specific proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. They are important signaling regulators in vivo and widely participate in various physiopathological processes. They are new targets for disease diagnosis and treatment. Considering the important role of non-coding RNAs during the development and treatment of PCOS, this article takes exosomal miRNAs as the breakthrough point for elucidating the physiological functions and therapeutic potential of exosomes during the development and treatment of PCOS through analyzing the effects of exosomal miRNAs on ovarian follicle development, hormone secretion, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and insulin resistance, thus providing new research directions and theoretical basis for PCOS pathogenesis, clinical diagnosis and prognosis improvement.
Novel transcriptome networks are associated with adaptation of capsicum fruit development to a light-blocking glasshouse film
Authors: He Xin , Solis Celymar A. , Chavan Sachin G. , Maier Chelsea , Wang Yuanyuan , Liang Weiguang , Klause Norbert , Ghannoum Oula , Cazzonelli Christopher I. , Tissue David T. , Chen Zhong-Hua
Published: November 2023

Light-blocking films (LBFs) can contribute to significant energy savings for protected cropping via altering light transmitting, such as UVA, photosynthetically active radiation, blue and red spectra affecting photosynthesis, and capsicum yield. Here, we investigated the effects of LBF on orange color capsicum (O06614, Capsicum annuum L.) fruit transcriptome at 35 (mature green) and 65 (mature ripe) days after pollination (DAP) relative to untreated control in a high-technology glasshouse. The results of targeted metabolites showed that LBF significantly promotes the percentage of lutein but decreased the percentage of zeaxanthin and neoxanthin only at 35 DAP. At 35 DAP, fruits were less impacted by LBF treatment (versus control) with a total of 1,192 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared with that at 65 DAP with 2,654 DEGs. Response to stress and response to light stimulus in biological process of Gene Ontology were found in 65-DAP fruits under LBF vs. control, and clustering analysis revealed a predominant role of light receptors and phytohormone signaling transduction as well as starch and sucrose metabolism in LBF adaptation. The light-signaling DEGs, UV light receptor UVR8, transcription factors phytochrome-interacting factor 4 (PIF4), and an E3 ubiquitin ligase (COP1) were significantly downregulated at 65 DAP. Moreover, key DEGs in starch and sucrose metabolism (SUS, SUC, and INV), carotenoid synthesis (PSY2 and BCH1), ascorbic acid biosynthesis (VTC2, AAO, and GME), abscisic acid (ABA) signaling (NCED3, ABA2, AO4, and PYL2/4), and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis (PAL and DFR) are important for the adaptation of 65-DAP fruits to LBF. Our results provide new candidate genes for improving quality traits of low-light adaptation of capsicum in protected cropping.
Developing a scale for examining the perspective of university students on parental care
Authors: Peng Xuxin , Nakatani Hisae , Chen Huifang , Inoue Yuriko , Song Fang , Yoshihara Mikako , Lei Ruxin
Published: November 2023

Introduction

With the declining birth rate and increasingly aging population in Japan, an increased care burden may be placed on the family and the younger generation will address challenging circumstances when they can care for their parents. This study aimed to develop a scale for examining the perspectives of Japanese university students on parental care and determines its reliability and validity.

Methods

A web-based survey on a total of 408 Japanese students was adopted. This study performed exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to obtain the underlying factors of the scale. Reliability was verified using Cronbach’s α coefficient and Spearman–Brown’s split-half reliability α coefficient. Validity was verified through sample, criterion-related, and convergent and discriminant validity.

Results

In total, the study identified a three-factor 11 item-scale. Cronbach’s α for the scale was 0.901, and the Cronbach’s α and split-half reliability α coefficients of each factor were greater than 0.7. Three factors explained 64.6% of the total variance. The model indicators were χ2/df = 2.241, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.951, incremental fit index (IFI) = 0.951, TLI = 0.942, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.078 (p < 0.001). Thus, the study confirmed that the convergent and discriminant validity is acceptable. Correlations were noted for criterion-related validity (r = 0.675, p < 0.001).

Discussion

The results show that the scale for examining the perspective of Japanese university students on parental care was confirmed with good reliability and validity.
The efficacy and safety of sodium nitroprusside in the treatment of schizophrenia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Fei Xinxing , Li Jiyang , Wang Shiqi , Wang Jianxiong , Guo Changmei , Qisha Rizhi , Gao Yaqian , Hu Yue
Published: November 2023

Objective

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disease that brings not only serious burdens to patients and their families but also serious challenges to society. More research is needed to find better drugs to treat schizophrenia. This meta-analysis investigated the efficacy and safety of sodium nitroprusside in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy and safety of sodium nitroprusside in the treatment of schizophrenia were searched via English and Chinese databases. The outcomes, including the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), were recorded. RevMan 5.3 was used for the meta-analysis.

Results

A total of six randomized controlled trials (174 patients) were included. The overall quality of the included studies was good. No statistically significant benefit of sodium nitroprusside over placebo was found when combined PANSS total and BPRS-18 (95% CI: −1.40, 0.02). Except for PANSS positive (95% CI: −1.86, −0.01), there was no significant difference in the scale score after sodium nitroprusside treatment compared with the control group in PANSS total (95% CI: −4.93, 0.23), PANSS general (95% CI: −2.53, 1.33), and PANSS negative (95% CI: −4.44, 0.89). The results of the sensitivity analysis excluding the study with clinical heterogeneity showed that sodium nitroprusside had no statistical benefit for the score of PANSS positive (95% CI: −2.19, 0.46). Moreover, there was also no significant difference in the BPRS-18 (95% CI: −3.23, −0.43).

Conclusion

We conservatively believe that sodium nitroprusside does not alleviate the symptoms of schizophrenia compared with placebo. The subjects tolerated sodium nitroprusside well. Our findings provide a new idea for researchers to explore and solve the drug treatment of schizophrenia.
Can We Improve Problem Solving by Nurturing Creativity?
Authors: Hershkovitz Arnon , Israel-Fishelson Rotem
Published: November 2023

Did you ever face a problem you needed to solve? Most of us face such problems daily—for example, finding the shortest route to school, locating the source of a bad smell, fixing a broken home appliance, or settling a disagreement. Problem solving is an essential life skill. Problem solving is also a creative process, and creativity is considered an important life skill, too. In this study, we tested whether we could improve problem solving among teenagers by increasing their creativity using a simple method. We found that we could improve participants’ creativity, and that this led to improved problem-solving ability.
Ion kinetic effects linked to magnetic field discontinuities in the slow Alfvénic wind observed by Solar Orbiter in the inner heliosphere
Authors: Perrone Denise , Settino Adriana , De Marco Rossana , D’Amicis Raffaella , Perri Silvia
Published: November 2023

Slow solar wind, sharing magnetic and plasma properties typical of fast wind, the so-called slow Alfvénic wind, has been widely observed in the heliosphere. Here, we report an analysis of the turbulent properties of a slow Alfvénic stream observed by Solar Orbiter at 0.64 AU. This solar wind stream is characterized by well distinguishable regions, namely, a main portion, an intermediate region, and a rarefaction region. Each of those intervals have been studied separately, in order to enhance similarities and differences in their turbulence properties. Coherent structures naturally emerge over different time/spatial scales and their characteristics at ion scales have been investigated. The presence of these intermittent events have been found to be closely related to kinetic features in the ion (both proton and alpha particles) velocity distribution functions, suggesting a fundamental role in the kinetic physical processes that mediate the sub-ion turbulence cascade.