bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of cholesterol level with dopamine loss and motor deficits in Parkinson disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jeong Seong Ho , Lee Hye Sun , Chung Seok Jong , Yoo Han Soo , Jung Jin Ho , Baik Kyoungwon , Baik Jong Sam , Sohn Young H. , Lee Phil Hyu
Published: October 2022

Background and purpose

Cholesterol is vital in neuronal function; however, the influence of cholesterol levels on parkinsonism is unclear. This study investigated the relationship between baseline total cholesterol (TC) levels, dopamine loss, and motor symptoms in drug‐naïve Parkinson disease (PD).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study enrolled 447 drug‐naïve patients with PD who underwent dopamine transporter (DAT) imaging. Multivariate linear regression was used to investigate the effect of cholesterol levels on Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III (UPDRS‐III) total score and each subscore after adjusting for the covariates. An interaction analysis was performed to examine the interaction between TC levels and statin use on the UPDRS‐III scores.

Results

No significant correlation was found between TC levels and DAT availability after adjusting for potential confounders. Multivariate linear regression showed that TC levels were significantly and negatively associated with the UPDRS‐III total score (β = −0.116, p = 0.013) and bradykinesia subscore (β = −0.145, p = 0.011). Dichotomized analysis according to TC levels showed that TC levels were significantly associated with UPDRS‐III total score, and rigidity, bradykinesia, and axial subscores only in the low TC group. There was an interaction effect between TC levels and statin use for the axial subscores (β = −0.523, p = 0.025). Subgroup analysis showed that TC levels were significantly and negatively associated with the axial subscore in statin users; however, no association was found in statin nonusers.

Conclusions

This study suggests that TC levels affect parkinsonian motor symptoms, especially in subjects with low cholesterol status, whereas the severity of axial motor symptoms is negatively associated with TC levels only in statin users.
Sneaky copulations by subordinate males suggest direct fitness benefits from male–male associations in spotted bowerbirds (Ptilonorhynchus maculatus)
Authors: Spezie Giovanni , Fusani Leonida
Published: October 2022

Male spotted bowerbirds (Ptilonorhynchus maculatus) build and defend a structure of sticks and straw—the bower—decorated with colourful objects to attract mates during the breeding season. Specific non‐territorial, subordinate males are tolerated by resident males at bowers over multiple breeding seasons. Prior research showed that these male–male associations exhibit attributes of coalitionary behaviour and that subordinate males gain delayed benefits from associating with bower owners, namely future bower inheritance. Yet, it remained unclear whether subordinate males may additionally gain direct fitness benefits from attending established bowers. Here, we report on four separate instances of sneaky copulations (or attempts of copulating) by subordinate males at resident males' bowers. Multiple non‐resident males disrupted the ongoing copulations between the bower owner and a receptive female, and these events were followed by violent aggressive interactions. These observations shed new light on same‐sex social dynamics in spotted bowerbirds and support the hypothesis that subordinate males are sexually mature individuals that occasionally obtain access to females while attending established bowers. We discuss these findings in light of the literature on male courtship coalitions and agonistic behaviour in bowerbirds, and highlight further aspects of subordinate behaviour that require empirical investigation.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis transcriptional regulator Rv1019 is upregulated in hypoxia, and negatively regulates Rv3230c‐Rv3229c operon encoding enzymes in the oleic acid biosynthetic pathway
Authors: Pushparajan Akhil Raj , Edison Lekshmi K. , Ajay Kumar Ramakrishnan
Published: October 2022

The main obstacle in eradicating tuberculosis is the ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to remain dormant in the host, and then to get reactivated even years later under immunocompromised conditions. Transcriptional regulation in intracellular pathogens plays an important role in their adapting to the challenging environment inside the host cells. Previously, we demonstrated that Rv1019, a putative transcriptional regulator of M. tuberculosis H37Rv, is an autorepressor. We showed that Rv1019 is cotranscribed with Rv1020 (mfd) and Rv1021 (mazG) which encode DNA repair proteins and negatively regulates the expression of these genes. In the present study, we show that Rv1019 regulates the expression of the genes Rv3230c and Rv3229c (desA3) also which form a two‐gene operon in M. tuberculosis. Overexpression of Rv1019 in M. tuberculosis significantly downregulated the expression of these genes. Employing Wayne's hypoxia‐induced dormancy model of M. tuberculosis, we show that Rv1019 is upregulated three‐fold under hypoxia. Finally, by reporter assay, using Mycobacterium smegmatis as a model, we validate that Rv1019 is recruited to the promoter of Rv3230c‐Rv3229c during hypoxia, and negatively regulates this operon which is involved in the biosynthesis of oleic acid.
Rapid detection of Salmonella by low‐field NMR biosensor using long‐arm functional magnetic nanoprobes
Authors: Dong Qiuling , Liang Xuehua , Xiong Chunhong , Huang Ganhui , Zhang Jinsheng
Published: October 2022

Developing rapid detection tools and methods for foodborne pathogens has always been a research hotspot, which is undoubtedly very important for food safety. In this study, the preparation of functional magnetic nanoprobes and their application to detect target pathogens in a complex matrix by low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) is demonstrated. The long‐arm functional magnetic nanoprobes were constructed by modification with polyethylene glycol (PEG) onto carboxyl‐modified magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and then reaction with biotin (Bio). Under the optimal conditions, the lower limit that can be detected in the PBS buffer system is 100 CFU/mL, and the detection of the actual sample matrix can be achieved 102 CFU/g. The practical application of LF‐NMR sensors to detect harmful pathogenic bacteria in food provides an efficient way of monitoring dangerous pathogenic diseases.
Functioning of structurally diverse families living with adolescents and children with chronic disease: A metasynthesis
Authors: Neris Rhyquelle Rhibna , Bolis Letícia Onelli , Leite Ana Carolina Andrade Biaggi , Alvarenga Willyane de Andrade , Garcia‐Vivar Cristina , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The diagnosis of children and adolescents with a chronic disease may affect the entire family system. When families have diverse structures, additional tensions can be present and affect the balance of family functioning. This metasynthesis aims to analyze and synthesize qualitative evidence on the functioning of structurally diverse families who live with adolescents and children with chronic disease.

Design

Qualitative metasynthesis.

Methods

Systematic searches up to 2021 were performed in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, LILACS, and Web of Science and supplemented by manual search strategies. It followed guidelines from the statement in the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ). A quality appraisal of each study was undertaken using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Data synthesis was conducted according to the thematic synthesis approach.

Findings

Of a total of 6538 references identified, 9 studies were included in the metasynthesis. The thematic synthesis enabled the construction of three analytical themes: “Family structural changes and weakened co‐parenting”; “Family rearrangements and the challenges faced by families”; and “Committed to healthy family functioning for the child's well‐being: Searching for family homeostasis”.

Conclusions

The themes showed that the causes of the rupture in the family unit interfere in family functioning, making it ineffective. In most families, family functioning is centered on the mothers. Faced with the need to care for children and adolescents and to control chronic disease, structurally diverse families need to adjust their family functioning and search for family homeostasis.

Clinical Relevance

The results of this review can support nurses to target their care toward these families and formulate effective interventions that promote, strengthen, or maintain the healthy functioning of these families.
Putting life on hold: A longitudinal phenomenological‐hermeneutic study of living with [or close to someone with] an enterocutaneous fistula before and after reconstructive surgery
Authors: Härle Karolina , Börjeson Sussanne , Hallböök Olof , Myrelid Pär , Thylèn Ingela
Published: October 2022

Aims and Objectives

Illuminate meanings of living with [or close to someone with] an enterocutaneous fistula before and after reconstructive surgery.

Background

Enterocutaneous fistula is a serious condition affecting the well‐being and social life of both patients and families, sometimes for several years.

Design

A longitudinal qualitative design.

Methods

Patients and families (n = 14) were followed with dyadic interviews at three occasions, conducted 2017–2020. The interviews were analysed with a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach. COREQ guidelines were followed.

Result

Living with an enterocutaneous fistula was explained as life being put on hold, while living in a bubble for an uncertain time. This bubble meant facing an unpredictable and restricted life where the dyads were forced to take control over the situation despite being vulnerable inside, striving to resume normality. The patients dealt with never‐ending symptoms such as leakage from the fistula, pain and fatigue, while the family supported with practical matters and just being close. Dependency on intravenous fluids resulted in social isolation, which caused mode swings and depressiveness. In this situation, healthcare professionals often became a substitute for other interactions, but the lack of understanding about the dyads' situation, affected their trust in the healthcare. Despite all, they still had belief in the future, the patients having higher expectations than the family.

Conclusions

Living with an enterocutaneous fistula meant a daily life struggling with many limitations. This implies that the transition was associated with difficulties and the dyads strived to accept their situation.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The findings indicate that these patients must be cared for with a multidisciplinary approach. A person‐centred health plan could impact on the dyads' feeling of control and thereby making them less dependent on healthcare. Every patient should have their own contact nurse and be offered psychological support.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable due to the current method.
The characteristics of pre‐excitation syndrome concomitant with atrial tachyarrhythmia and the effect of radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Cui Chang , Li Zhaomin , Ju Weizhu , Yang Gang , Gu Kai , Liu Hailei , Li Mingfang , Chen Hongwu , Wang Jing , Chen Minglong
Published: October 2022

Background

Wolff‐Parkinson‐White (WPW) concomitant with atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) has not been systemically characterized.

Methods

Detailed electroanatomical mapping of the right atrium (RA) and/or left atrium (LA) was performed using three‐dimensional mapping and the accessory pathway (AP) was mapped.

Results

WPW syndrome with ATA was diagnosed in 11 patients (median age 60 years). The characteristic of unidirectional anterograde conduction over the AP was displayed in nine patients, six of whom were intermittent. Sustained atrial tachycardia, that is, counterclockwise atrial flutter (AFL) with a median tachycardia cycle length (TCL) of 225 (220–275) ms, was mapped in eight patients; furthermore, “figure 8” right atrial reentry was mapped with TCL 250 ms in one patient with a surgical history of ventricular septal defect repair. The remaining two patients underwent mitral annulus‐dependent AT after paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) ablation and LA micro‐reentry AT, respectively. In four patients, the location of the APs was left posterior. Left‐lateral APs were identified in four patients. The locations of the APs in the remaining three patients were the right posterior and middle septum. All ATAs and APs were successfully ablated. After a median follow‐up of 37 (15–72) months, no anterograde conduction over the AP was recorded, new onset of PAF was recorded in three patients, and all of them underwent circumferential pulmonary vein isolation.

Conclusions

WPW with concomitant ATA frequently had continuous anterograde conduction over the AP with a rapid ventricular rate. Most WPWs displayed the characteristic of unidirectional anterograde conduction.
Engineering triacylglycerol accumulation in duckweed (Lemna japonica)
Authors: Liang Yuanxue , Yu Xiao‐Hong , Anaokar Sanket , Shi Hai , Dahl William B. , Cai Yingqi , Luo Guangbin , Chai Jin , Cai Yuanheng , Mollá‐Morales Almudena , Altpeter Fredy , Ernst Evan , Schwender Jorg , Martienssen Robert A. , Shanklin John
Published: October 2022

Duckweeds are amongst the fastest growing of higher plants, making them attractive high‐biomass targets for biofuel feedstock production. Their fronds have high rates of fatty acid synthesis to meet the demand for new membranes, but triacylglycerols (TAG) only accumulate to very low levels. Here we report on the engineering of Lemna japonica for the synthesis and accumulation of TAG in its fronds. This was achieved by expression of an estradiol‐inducible cyan fluorescent protein‐Arabidopsis WRINKLED1 fusion protein (CFP‐AtWRI1), strong constitutive expression of a mouse diacylglycerol:acyl‐CoA acyltransferase2 (MmDGAT), and a sesame oleosin variant (SiOLE(*)). Individual expression of each gene increased TAG accumulation by 1‐ to 7‐fold relative to controls, while expression of pairs of these genes increased TAG by 7‐ to 45‐fold. In uninduced transgenics containing all three genes, TAG accumulation increased by 45‐fold to 3.6% of dry weight (DW) without severely impacting growth, and by 108‐fold to 8.7% of DW after incubation on medium containing 100 μm estradiol for 4 days. TAG accumulation was accompanied by an increase in total fatty acids of up to three‐fold to approximately 15% of DW. Lipid droplets from fronds of all transgenic lines were visible by confocal microscopy of BODIPY‐stained fronds. At a conservative 12 tonnes (dry matter) per acre and 10% (DW) TAG, duckweed could produce 350 gallons of oil/acre/year, approximately seven‐fold the yield of soybean, and similar to that of oil palm. These findings provide the foundation for optimizing TAG accumulation in duckweed and present a new opportunity for producing biofuels and lipidic bioproducts.
Response of sugar metabolism in the cotyledons and roots of Ricinus communis subjected to salt stress
Authors: Li Y. , Chu Y. , Yao K. , Shi C. , Deng X. , Lin J.
Published: October 2022

Ricinus communis is an important oilseed crop worldwide and is also considered one of the best potential plants for salt‐affected soil improvement in northeast China. However, little is known about photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism in this plant, nor the distribution of carbohydrates in cotyledons and roots under salinity stress.

In the present study, seedling growth, gas exchange parameters (PN, E, gs and Ci), carbohydrate (fructose, sucrose, glucose, soluble sugar and starch) metabolism and related enzymes and genes were measured in Ricinus plants.

Under salt stress, PN of cotyledons decreased significantly (P < 0.05), resulting in weak photosynthetic capacity. Furthermore, salt stress increased sucrose and glucose content in cotyledons, but decreased soluble sugar and starch content. However, sucrose increased and starch decreased in roots. This may be correlated with the increasing sugar metabolism under salinity, including notable changes in sugar‐related enzyme activities (SPS, SuSy, α‐amylase and β‐amylase) and gene expression of RcINV, RcSUS, RcAmY, RcBAM and RcGBE1.

The results suggest that salinity reduces photosynthesis of cotyledons, alters carbohydrate allocation between cotyledons and roots and also promotes starch utilization in cotyledons and starch biosynthesis in roots, leading to a functional imbalance between cotyledons and roots. Together, these findings provide insights into the crucial role of sugar metabolism in improving salt‐tolerance of Ricinus during the early seedling growth stage.
Trajectories of low‐income mothers’ and fathers’ engagement in learning activities and child socioemotional skills in middle childhood
Authors: Fagan Jay , Cabrera Natasha
Published: October 2022

Using Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing data (N = 3259), the current study examined Black and Latinx mothers’ and fathers’ trajectories of engagement in learning activities (e.g., storytelling) from infancy to age 5, and whether those trajectories predicted socioemotional skills at age 9, predictors of the trajectories (poverty, mother‐father nonresidence, temperament, race/ethnicity), and moderators of the trajectories. Mothers’ and fathers’ learning activities decreased significantly over time as children got older. Higher rates of decline in fathers’ engagement in learning activities over time significantly predicted lower socioemotional skills. Mother‐father nonresidence during infancy was associated significantly with higher rates of decline in mothers’ and fathers’ learning activities. Difficult temperament moderated the association between fathers’ trajectories and child outcomes.
Class A lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase 2 from Camelina sativa promotes very long‐chain fatty acids accumulation in phospholipid and triacylglycerol
Authors: Yin Yongtai , Raboanatahiry Nadia , Chen Kang , Chen Xinfeng , Tian Tian , Jia Jia , He Hongsheng , He Jianjie , Guo Zhenyi , Yu Longjiang , Li Maoteng
Published: October 2022

Very long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) are important industrial raw materials and can be produced by genetically modified oil plants. For a long time, class A lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase (LPAT) was considered unable to promote the accumulation of VLCFA in oil crops. The bottlenecks that the transgenic high VLCFA lines have an oil content penalty and the low amount of VLCFA in phosphatidylcholine remains intractable. In the present study, a class A LPAT2 from Camelina sativa (CsaLPAT2) promoting VLCFAs accumulation in phospholipid was found. Overexpression of CsaLPAT2 alone in Arabidopsis seeds significantly increased the VLCFA content in triacylglycerol, including C20:0, C20:2, C20:3, C22:0, and C22:1. The proportion of phosphatidic acid molecules containing VLCFAs in transgenic seeds reached up to 45%, which was 2.8‐fold greater than that in wild type. The proportion of phosphatidylcholine and diacylglycerol molecules containing VLCFAs also increased significantly. Seed size in CsaLPAT2 transgenic lines showed a slight increase without an oil content penalty. The total phospholipid content in the seed of the CsaLPAT2 transgenic line was significantly increased. Furthermore, the function of class A LPAT in promoting the accumulation of VLCFAs is conserved in the representative oil crops of Brassicaceae, such as C. sativa, Arabidopsis thaliana, Brassica napus, Brassica rapa, and Brassica oleracea. The findings of this study provide a promising gene resource for the production of VLCFAs.
Photosynthetic recovery in drought‐rehydrated grapevines is associated with high demand from the sinks, maximizing the fruit‐oriented performance
Authors: Patono Davide L. , Said‐Pullicino Daniel , Eloi Alcatrāo Leandro , Firbus Andrea , Ivaldi Giorgio , Chitarra Walter , Ferrandino Alessandra , Ricauda Aimonino Davide , Celi Luisella , Gambino Giorgio , Perrone Irene , Lovisolo Claudio
Published: October 2022

To understand how grapevine sinks compete with each other during water stress and subsequent rehydration, carbon (C) allocation patterns in drought‐rehydrated vines (REC) at the beginning of fruit ripening were compared with control vines maintained under drought (WS) or fully irrigated (WW). In the 30 days following rehydration, the quantity and distribution of newly fixed C between leaves, roots and fruits was evaluated through 13CO2 pulse‐labeling and stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry. REC plants diverted the same percentage of fixed C towards the berries as the WS plants, although the percentage was higher than that of WW plants. Net photosynthesis (measured simultaneously with root respiration in a multichamber system for analysis of gas exchange above‐ and below‐ground) was approximately two‐fold greater in REC compared to WS treatment, and comparable or even higher than in WW plants. Maximizing C assimilation and delivery in REC plants led to a significantly higher amount of newly fixed C compared to both control treatments, already 2 days after rehydration in root, and 2 days later in the berries, in line with the expression of genes responsible for sugar metabolism. In REC plants, the increase in C assimilation was able to support the requests of the sinks during fruit ripening, without affecting the reserves, as was the case in WS. These mechanisms clarify what is experienced in fruit crops, when occasional rain or irrigation events are more effective in determining sugar delivery towards fruits, rather than constant and satisfactory water availabilities.
Power dynamics and health initiative design as determinants of peacebuilding: a case study of the Syrian conflict
Authors: AlGhatrif Majd , Darwish Mohammad , Alzoubi Zedoun , Shawar Yusra Ribhi
Published: October 2022

Peace-through-health has emerged as a promising concept but with variable evidence of success. Cooptation of health initiatives in conflict is believed to be a major challenge undermining peacebuilding potential. We examine the role that existing power structures and health initiative characteristics play at various levels of a conflict in peacebuilding outcomes. Using the Syrian conflict as a case study, we assess healthcare initiatives’ characteristics and their peacebuilding tendencies accounting for power dynamics at the (1) state citizen, (2) interbelligerents and (3) intercommunity conflict levels, drawing on the WHO’s framework for health and peace initiatives. Healthcare interventions at state citizen and interbelligerent levels generally addressed combat-related and material-dependent health needs, relied on large-scale international funding and centralised governance structures, and bestowed credit to specific agencies with political implications. These characteristics made such initiatives prone to cooptation in conflict with limited peacebuilding capacity. Healthcare initiatives at the community level addressed more basic, service-dependent needs, had smaller budgets, relied on local organisations and distributed credit across stakeholders, making them less amenable to cooptation in the conflict with more propeace potential. A pilot peacebuilding health initiative designed to leverage these propeace attributes navigated the political environment, minimised cooptation and fostered community collaboration, resulting in peacebuilding potential. In summary, peacebuilding health initiatives are more likely to materialise at the community as compared with higher political levels. Further studies, accounting for conflict power structures, are needed to examine the effectiveness of such initiatives and identify methods that maximise their peacebuilding outcomes.
Peace and health: exploring the nexus in the Americas
Authors: Hyder Adnan A , Ambrosio Natalia S , García-Ponce Omar , Barberia Lorena
Published: October 2022

The relationship between peace and health is complex, multifactorial and fraught with challenges of definitions, measurements and outcomes. This exploratory commentary on this nexus within a focus on the Americas posits this challenge clearly and calls for more scholarship and empirical work on this issue from an interdisciplinary perspective. The overall goal of this paper is to try and explore the elements that impact the relationship between peace and health with a focus on the Americas (defined as countries spanning from Canada to Argentina) in the post-Cold war period. Focusing on the 1990s and onwards, we seek to underscore why violence continues to permeate these societies despite a third and lasting wave of democratisation in the hemisphere. We hope this will allow a more robust dialogue on peace and health in the regional and global health literature.
Explaining anomalies of B-physics, muon $$g-2$$ and W mass in R-parity violating MSSM with seesaw mechanism
Authors: Zheng Min-Di , Chen Feng-Zhi , Zhang Hong-Hao
Published: October 2022

The recent experimental results including $$R_{K^{(*)}}$$

R

K

(

∗
)

, $$R_{D^{(*)}}$$

R

D

(

∗
)

, $$(g-2)_\mu $$

(
g
-
2
)

μ

and W mass show deviations from the standard model (SM) predictions, implying the clues of new physics (NP). In this work, we investigate the explanations of these anomalies in the R-parity violating minimal supersymmetric standard model (RPV-MSSM) extended with the inverse seesaw mechanism. The non-unitarity extent $$\eta _{ee}$$

η

ee

and the loop corrections from the interaction $$\lambda '\hat{L} \hat{Q} \hat{D}$$

λ
′

L
^

Q
^

D
^

are utilized to raise the prediction of W mass through muon decays. We also find that the interaction $$\lambda '\hat{L} \hat{Q} \hat{D}$$

λ
′

L
^

Q
^

D
^

involved with right-handed (RH)/singlet (s)neutrinos can explain the $$R_{K^{(*)}}$$

R

K

(

∗
)

and $$R_{D^{(*)}}$$

R

D

(

∗
)

anomalies simultaneously when considering nonzero $$\lambda '_{1jk}$$

λ

1
j
k

′

. For nonzero $$\lambda '_{2jk}$$

λ

2
j
k

′

, this model fulfills the whole $$b\rightarrow s\ell ^+\ell ^-$$

b
→
s

ℓ
+

ℓ
-

fit but cannot be accordant with $$R_{D^{(*)}}$$

R

D

(

∗
)

measurements. The explanations in both cases are also favored by $$(g-2)_\mu $$

(
g
-
2
)

μ

data, neutrino oscillation data and the relevant constraints we scrutinized. Furthermore, this model framework can be tested in future experiments covering, e.g., the predicted lepton flavor violations (LFV) at Belle II and the Future Circular Collider with $$e^+e^-$$

e
+

e
-

beams (FCC-ee), as well as the heavy neutrinos at future colliders.
Gravitational wave of the Bianchi VII universe: particle trajectories, geodesic deviation and tidal accelerations
Authors: Osetrin Konstantin , Osetrin Evgeny , Osetrina Elena
Published: October 2022

For the gravitational wave model based on the type III Shapovalov wave space-time, test particle trajectories and the exact solution of geodesic deviation equations for the Bianchi type VII universe are obtained. Based on the found 4-vector of deviation, tidal accelerations in a gravitational wave are calculated. For the obtained solution in a privileged coordinate system, an explicit form of transformations into a synchronous reference system is found, which allows time synchronization at any points of space-time with separation of time and spatial coordinates. The synchronous reference system used is associated with a freely falling observer on the base geodesic. In a synchronous coordinate system, an explicit form of the gravitational wave metric, a 4-vector of geodesic deviation, and a 4-vector of tidal accelerations in a gravitational wave are obtained. The exact solution describes a variant of the primordial gravitational wave. The results of the work can be used to study the plasma radiation generated by tidal accelerations of a gravitational wave.
Effect of Coated Silver Nanoparticles on Cancerous vs. Healthy Cells
Authors: Artiukh Liubov , Povnitsa Olga , Zahorodnia Svitlana , Pop Calin V. , Rizun Nodari
Published: October 2022

Unique properties of silver nanoparticles (NPs) ensure their wide applications, in biomedicine; for this reason, it is very important carefully to study the toxicity of such NPs. The influence of silver nanoparticles coated with natural resin (Ag NPs) on the morphological and functional features of healthy BHK-21 and cancerous Hep-2 cells were studied using fluorescence microscopy, MTT, and neutral red assays. Ag NPs induced morphological changes in both cell cultures. The modifications were dose-dependent and more pronounced with an increase in NPs concentration. The IC50 value of Ag NPs for Hep-2 cells was found to be 2.19 ± 0.22 µg/mL, whereas for BHK-21 cells it was significantly (5x) higher at 10.92 ± 2.48 µg/mL. The use of NPs at a concentration close to IC50 leads to significant increase (up to 40%) in the number of necrotic cells in cancerous cell population and a decrease in the number of mitotic cells (up to 1.3%). In noncancerous cells the cellular parameters were similar to the control cells. These data suggest that the silver nanoparticles coated with natural resin can be potentially used in cancer therapy.
Catechin-Albumin Conjugates: Enhanced Antioxidant Capacity and Anticancer Effects
Authors: Ooya Tooru , Haraguchi Izumi
Published: October 2022

(+)-Catechin conjugated with human serum albumin (CT–HSA) was prepared and evaluated as a drug carrier bearing anticancer effects. It was found that 2.4 mol of CT was conjugate to 1 mol HSA. The CT–HSA has an antioxidant capacity of about 3.3 times the amount of CT in the conjugate. Intracellular incorporation of the CT–HSA was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) measurements using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labelled CT–HSA. The results indicated that the FITC-labelled CT–HSA was incorporated into HeLa cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The CT–HSA enhanced the binding of anticancer drugs (5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) and mitomycin C (MMC)) comparing with HSA, and the CT–HSA mixed with 5-Fu or MMC decreased significantly the HeLa cell viability as compared with the same concentration of each drug. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging by the CT–HSA is likely to affect the anticancer effects. Thus, the CT–HSA enhanced anticancer drug efficacy in relation to controlling ROS-scavenging ability.
Improved Convolutional Neural Image Recognition Algorithm based on LeNet-5
Authors: Zhou Lijie , Yu Weihai
Published: October 2022

Convolutional neural network (CNN) is a very important method in deep learning, which solves many complex pattern recognition problems. Fruitful results have been achieved in image recognition, speech recognition, and natural language processing. Compared with traditional neural network, convolutional weight sharing, sparse connection, and pooling operations in convolutional neural network greatly reduce the number of training parameters, reduce size of feature map, simplify network model, and improve training efficiency. Based on convolution operation, pooling operation, softmax classifier, and network optimization algorithm in improved convolutional neural network of LeNet-5, this paper conducts image recognition experiments on handwritten digits and face datasets, respectively. A method combining local binary pattern and convolutional neural network is proposed for face recognition research. Through experiments, it is found that adding LBP image information to improved convolutional neural network of LeNet-5 can improve accuracy of face recognition to 99.8%, which has important theoretical and practical significance.
Intelligent Voice System Design for Optimizing E-Business Advertising Rhetoric Based on SVM Algorithm
Authors: Guo Chunfeng
Published: October 2022

With the emergence and development of artificial intelligence, design is no longer a process that can be completed only by creativity and knowledge. This article introduces research based on voice data mining and further discusses the optimization and application of rhetorical methods for e-commerce advertising. This article is working from two main aspects: one is to use association rule models in speech data mining to obtain useful rule relationships between Chinese prosody parameters, and the other is to use neural networks and data items in speech data mining. Using computer technology can make online advertisements interact with users. In addition to clicking on advertisements to jump to product pages, online advertisements also have multichannel sensory feelings, which can provide rich information and stimulate interest through interaction with users. We need to optimize the rhetoric of the advertisement and pay attention to the combination of the beauty of speech and the content of the advertisement when designing the advertisement. At the same time, we must also pay attention to the accuracy and elegance of the advertising language and wording.
CircCRIM1 Ameliorates Endothelial Cell Angiogenesis in Aging through the miR-455-3p/Twist1/VEGFR2 Signaling Axis
Authors: Zhao Lei , Chen Rencong , Qiu Jiacong , Huang Yingxiong , Lian Chong , Zhu Xiaonan , Cui Jin , Wang Siwen , Wang Shenming , Hu Zuojun , Wang Jinsong
Published: October 2022

Background. Aging leads to vascular endothelial cell senescence. Decreased expression of VEGFA and VEGFR2 plays a crucial role in impairing angiogenesis in senescent endothelial cells. Noncoding RNAs, including circular RNAs (circRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate endothelial cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and migration and participate in the occurrence and development of vascular diseases. However, the mechanism of noncoding RNAs in age-related vascular endothelial dysfunction remains unclear. Here, we aimed to identify the circRNA that is associated with VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway activation in angiogenesis. Methods. Immunoblotting, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR), in vitro and in vivo experiments, luciferase assays, and chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by qRT–PCR (ChIP–qPCR) assays were performed to clarify the roles played by circCRIM1 in mouse aortic endothelial cell (MAEC) angiogenesis. Results. CircCRIM1 expression was downregulated in both an aging mouse model of lower limb ischemia in vivo and aging MAECs in vitro. Overexpressing circCRIM1 mediated through a plasmid or adeno-associated virus (AAV) reversed the downregulation of angiogenesis-related phenotype acquisition during aging. MiR-455-3p was confirmed to be a potential target of circCRIM1 through luciferase assays followed by RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), which revealed the colocalization of circCRIM1 and miR-455-3p. CircCRIM1 was found to be a competitive endogenous RNA that sponged miR-455-3p and regulated angiogenesis-related phenotypes in MAECs. Furthermore, Twist1 was found to be downstream of miR-455-3p. A ChIP–qPCR assay showed that Twist1 promoted VEGFR2 expression by binding to the promoter region, playing a vital role in angiogenesis. Conclusions. Decreased expression of circCRIM1 impaired angiogenesis in aging via the miR-455-3p/Twist1/VEGFR2 axis. Our findings suggest that overexpression of circCRIM1 may be an effective therapeutic strategy for promoting ischemic lower limb blood flow recovery.
Design of Accurate Association System of QR Code Information for Cigarette Sorting
Authors: Hao Chen , Taicheng Wei , Haoran Zhu
Published: October 2022

This study employs the EIQ analysis approach to quantitatively examine the real order data of the cigarette distribution center in an effort to further increase the efficiency of cigarette sorting and distribution. To further increase the accuracy and efficiency of sorting labor, a sorting system based on QR code information and an accurate identification algorithm is proposed with the use of statistical data and the associated planning scheme. According to the system simulation findings, the sorting efficiency of the system’s sorting line is 18570 pieces per hour. However, by adding packing equipment, the efficiency of the system can be raised by 61.55 percent and can reach 30000 pieces per hour. Additionally, it confirms the viability of the system design. The two-dimensional code’ properties determine which global threshold method the binarization algorithm chooses. The two-dimensional code’ coding principle is investigated, and a two-dimensional code decoding algorithm is developed. The results of the experiment indicate that the decoding algorithm can fulfill these requirements.
C-Reactive Protein, Procalcitonin, and a Novel Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Target of Thrombocytopenia in Sepsis
Authors: Li Jing , Hu Lijuan , Li Lei
Published: October 2022

Objective. The aim of the study is to analyze the clinical characteristics, pathogen distribution, and drug sensitivity information of adult sepsis, and to provide reference for empirical clinical use; to explore the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and calcitonin (PCT) The clinical value in the diagnosis of adult sepsis. Methods. We collected 455 cases of hospitalized patients with positive blood culture, including 352 cases with sepsis and 103 cases without sepsis; 1609 cases of hospitalized patients with suspected infection and negative blood culture, including 287 cases of sepsis, and 518 cases of non-infectious systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and 804 cases of local infection. Age, gender, route of admission, admission status, CRP, PCT, and white blood cell (WBC) levels were collected from the patients. The differences between the factors were statistically analyzed, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) was plotted to obtain the optimal cut-off values of CRP and PCT and their area under the curve (AUC), and to compare the CRP, PCT and PCT, and the CRP + PCT tandem to diagnose sepsis sensitivity and specificity. Results. (1) 387 pathogenic strains were isolated from blood cultures of patients with sepsis, 71.06% Gram-negative, 26.87% Gram-positive and 2.07% fungi. (2) Among Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus was 87.5% resistant to penicillin and sensitive to vancomycin, milantropine, and teicoplanin; among Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli was resistant to piracillin The resistance rate was 73.1%, fully susceptible to viraemia (100%) and resistant to imipenem, amikacin, and lacillin/tazole. (3) Among patients with positive blood cultures, CRP and PCT levels were higher in patients with sepsis than in those without sepsis. Pairwise comparison of ROC curves showed that the diagnostic value of PCT was greater than that of CRP (P=0.016). Conclusion. CRP and PCT have a good reference value for diagnosis of sepsis patients and determination of the degree of infection in septic patients, especially PCT is more valuable for diagnosis of sepsis.
Comparative Efficacy Study Combination of Oral Methotrexate and Prednisolone versus Oral Methotrexate in Patients with Lichen Planopilaris
Authors: Fatemi Farahnaz , Esfahanian Farifteh , Asilian Ali , Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Saber Mina
Published: October 2022

Background. Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a rare inflammatory disorder of the scalp that causes cicatricial alopecia. No therapeutic approach has been approved for this disease due to the rare frequency. Methotrexate and corticosteroid are commonly considered second‐ or third‐line therapy. The efficacy of a combination of methotrexate and corticosteroid has been reported in some dermatological and immunological diseases. However, the efficacy of this combination in LPP is not clear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the impact of methotrexate alone and in combination with corticosteroid on LPP. Materials and Methods. This randomized clinical trial was performed on 28 patients who referred to the dermatology clinic affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran during February 2015‐December 2016, and 24 of them completed the trials. Fourteen patients received 15 mg methotrexate per week alone and the other fourteen subjects received 200 mg prednisolone plus 15 mg methotrexate per week. The primary outcome was Lichen planopilaris activity index (LPPAI) score. Moreover, we evaluated photographic changes and symptoms during the study. Results. The mean of LPPAI in both groups decreased during the follow‐up with a similar pattern of LPPAI changes in both groups. No statistically significant difference was found between the two intervention groups regarding the LPPAI score. We found no difference in the symptoms and photographic assessments in methotrexate and combination therapy groups during follow‐up. In both groups, exclusively one adverse effect was reported. Conclusions. Our results showed that methotrexate therapy with and without corticosteroids had similar efficacy and safety.
Sickle Cell Disease in Children and Adolescents: A Review of the Historical, Clinical, and Public Health Perspective of Sub-Saharan Africa and Beyond
Authors: Egesa Walufu Ivan , Nakalema Gloria , Waibi William M. , Turyasiima Munanura , Amuje Emmanuel , Kiconco Gloria , Odoch Simon , Kumbakulu Patrick Kumbowi , Abdirashid Said , Asiimwe Daniel
Published: October 2022

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an umbrella term for a group of life-long debilitating autosomal recessive disorders that are caused by a single-point mutation (Glu→Val) that results in polymerization of hemoglobin (Hb) and reversible sickle-shape deformation of erythrocytes. This leads to increased hemolysis of erythrocytes and microvascular occlusion, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and tissue infarction, ultimately causing multisystem end-organ complications. Sickle cell anemia (HbSS) is the most common and most severe genotype of SCD, followed by HbSC, HbSβ0thalassemia, HbSβ+thalassemia, and rare and benign genotypes. Clinical manifestations of SCD occur early in life, are variable, and are modified by several genetic and environmental factors. Nearly 500 children with SCD continue to die prematurely every day, due to delayed diagnosis and/or lack of access to comprehensive care in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a trend that needs to be urgently reversed. Despite proven efficacy in developed countries, newborn screening programs are not universal in SSA. This calls for a consolidated effort to make this possible, through the use of rapid, accurate, and cheap point-of-care test kits which require minimal training. For almost two decades, hydroxyurea (hydroxycarbamide), a century-old drug, was the only disease-modifying therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Recently, the list expanded to L-glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor, with several promising novel therapies in the pipeline. Despite its several limitations, hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the only curative intervention for SCD. Meanwhile, recent advances in gene therapy trials offer a glimpse of hope for the near future, although its use maybe limited to developed countries for several decades.
The Application of Real-Time Video Processing Technology in English Culture Teaching
Authors: Xu Qing
Published: October 2022

In order to improve the effect of English culture teaching, this paper combines the real-time video image processing technology to construct an English culture teaching system. Moreover, this paper selects the image processing based on octree structure with the advantages of full 3D modeling and being updatable, flexible, and compact by comparison. At the same time, this paper analyzes the existing Gaussian-based inverse sensor model that can be used for monocular vision and improves the measurement inverse sensor model for stereo vision published by Andert. In addition, this paper deeply analyzes the influence of key parameters of the improved measurement inverse sensor model and realizes the real-time octree occupancy grid map of the improved measurement inverse sensor model. Finally, after improving the real-time video processing technology, this paper evaluates the application effect of the method proposed in this paper in English culture teaching. The experimental research results show that the real-time video processing technology proposed in this paper has a good effect in English culture teaching, and it can be applied to English culture teaching to improve the effect of English culture teaching.
Investigation of Groundwater Hydro-Geochemistry, Excellence, and Anthropoid Wellbeing Hazard in Dry Zones Using the Chemometric Method
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed Saad , Ramkumar G. , Radjarejesri S. , Prasad Ram , Ravi Kishore Pilla , Sillanpaa Mika , Mergia Anbese Endalkachew
Published: October 2022

This work deals with the groundwater hydro-geochemistry, intake and irrigation water quality, and noncarcinogenic human healthiness concerns in a dry environment. Water quality characteristics were measured in samples which were gathered from the countryside and city. The findings showed that the composition of groundwater is acidic and stony. There was a wide range of nitrate and fluoride concentrations, with a mean concentration of 1.4 mg/ltr, 65.7 mg/ltr, and 0 to 13.3 mg/ltr. Only 14% of the samples were rated excellent by the water quality index, while 38% were rated good, 28% were rated bad, and 12% were classified unfit/unsuitable for eating. The quantities of nitrate and fluoride in groundwater are estimated to be 68% higher than the permitted range for noncarcinogenic ingestion, posing a major health risk to the local people. A range of indicators and graphical approaches were used to assess the appropriateness of groundwater. The geogenic origin of fluoride was demonstrated to be followed by the anthropogenic source of NO−3, K+, Na+, Cl−, and HCO-3, and the predominant hydro-chemical facies Ca−2+ and HCO-3 are done.
Optimization of Water Absorption and Mechanical and Thermal Behavior of Polylactic Acid/Chitosan/Titanium Carbide
Authors: Krishnamohan S. , Anandaram Harishchander , Rathinam V. , Kaliappan S. , Sekar S. , Patil Pravin P , Kumar Asheesh , Govindaraajan Venkatesan
Published: October 2022

Nanocomposites are being studied for their mechanical, thermal, and water absorption capabilities. Polylactic acid/chitosan blends have been studied extensively for their physical, mechanical, and morphological properties. Although the three materials have been blended, no research has been done on the mechanical or morphological properties of PLA/CS/TiC NPs. PLA/CS bonding is quite deprived, and thus researchers are trying to improve it by introducing TiC NPs; this would improve the composites’ overall quality (mechanical and thermal characteristics as well as water absorption) by increasing the strength of the bind between the two materials. The impacts of TiC NPs on PLA/CS properties are studied using FTIR and XRD and thermal (TGA) and mechanical investigations. Titanium carbide nanoparticles in the polylactic acid/chitosan matrix increase the mechanical characteristics of the materials. As an outcome, the TiC content in the sample rises to 4 wt % even though adding TiC NPs increased the mechanical properties by up to 2%. The findings of this study might be applied to the development of environmentally friendly casings.