bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of human resources of medical specialists of draft commissions of municipalities of the Orenburg region.
Authors:   Orenburg State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Kuzmin S. A. , Kalinina E. A. ,   Orenburg State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Izbagambetova K. A. ,   Orenburg State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Grigorieva L. K. ,   Orenburg State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: September 2023

Currently, the issues of human resources are raised by many Russian and foreign scientists. Personnel, being the main, most valuable and significant part of health resources, ultimately ensure the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of medical care to the population. Therefore, there is no accidental scientific interest in studying the state of human resources of draft commissions carrying out military medical expertise. The purpose of the study is to characterize the personnel composition of doctors of conscription commissions of municipalities of the Orenburg region. Materials and methods. The analysis of the personnel of doctors working in the draft commissions of the Orenburg region was carried out. Statistical, analytical and sociological research methods were used. The following indicators were analyzed: staffing of draft commissions with medical personnel; age composition of doctors; general medical experience of doctors and work experience in draft commissions; availability of certificates of specialists and medical categories. To compile a social “portrait” of doctors working in the draft commissions of the Orenburg region, a sociological survey was carried out, in which 393 specialist doctors took part. The sociological survey made it possible to study the opinion of doctors who carry out medical examination of conscripts on the organization of medical care for young men in the pre-conscription period. Results. The average doctor working in the conscription commission of the Orenburg region municipality is characterized by a high level of professional training, which proves that he has a great medical experience, medical category and a specialist certificate. Conclusion. The article presents the results of the analysis of staffing indicators and the level of professional training of doctors working in the draft commissions of the Orenburg region. Taking into account the completed questionnaire, a social “portrait” of doctors carrying out medical examination of persons of military age was compiled. The opinion of doctors on the organization of medical care for young men in children’s polyclinics and draft commissions was studied. The information received should be taken into account when planning priority measures at the regional level aimed at improving the quality of medical support for the preparation of citizens for military service.
Increased Neighborhood Deprivation Is Associated with Prolonged Hospital Stays After Surgical Fixation of Traumatic Pelvic Ring Injuries
Authors: Patel Urvi J. , Shaikh Hashim J.F. , Brodell James D. , Coon Matthew , Ketz John P. , Soin Sandeep P.
Published: September 2023

Background:

The purpose of this study was to understand the role of social determinants of health assessed by the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) on hospital length of stay and discharge destination following surgical fixation of pelvic ring fractures.

Methods:

A retrospective chart analysis was performed for all patients who presented to our level-I trauma center with pelvic ring injuries that were treated with surgical fixation. Social determinants of health were determined via use of the ADI, a comprehensive metric of socioeconomic status, education, income, employment, and housing quality. ADI values range from 0 to 100 and are normalized to a U.S. mean of 50, with higher scores representing greater social deprivation. We stratified our cohort into 4 ADI quartiles. Statistical analysis was performed on the bottom (25th percentile and below, least deprived) and top (75th percentile and above, most deprived) ADI quartiles. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results:

There were 134 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Patients in the most deprived group were significantly more likely to have a history of smoking, to self-identify as Black, and to have a lower mean household income (p = 0.001). The most deprived ADI quartile had a significantly longer mean length of stay (and standard deviation) (19.2 ± 19 days) compared with the least deprived ADI quartile (14.7 ± 11 days) (p = 0.04). The least deprived quartile had a significantly higher percentage of patients who were discharged to a resource-intensive skilled nursing facility or inpatient rehabilitation facility compared with those in the most deprived quartile (p = 0.04). Race, insurance, and income were not significant predictors of discharge destination or hospital length of stay.

Conclusions:

Patients facing greater social determinants of health had longer hospital stays and were less likely to be discharged to resource-intensive facilities when compared with patients of lesser social deprivation. This may be due to socioeconomic barriers that limit access to such facilities.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Do we need a Sharia Supervisory Board in every Islamic bank?
Authors: Fani Asad Arsya Brilliant , Purnamasari Dian Septi , Safitri Fajrin Intan
Published: September 2023

Sharia compliance is crucial for Islamic Financial Institutions, so SSB an importantelement is the existence. The SSB is tasked with providing advice and suggestions tothe directors as well as supervising and making decisions, policies related to bankactivities so that they comply with sharia principles. The amount of remuneration inseveral banks is a problem in this research, so is it really necessary to have SSB in everybank, will the DSN not be enough? Remuneration can be allocated as an additionalfinancing fund for debtors. This paper examines the relationship between SSBeffectiveness, their remuneration, asset efficiency. Using a quantitative descriptivemethod, the Common Effect Model CEM as a model and form of dummy variable crosssection data. The results that can be drawn from this study are the SSB remuneration,the number of members of the SSB, the total number of meetings held and the size ofthe assets have a significant effect on financing. Even though the percentage ofremuneration in several banks is not reasonable, the role of SSB in each bank is stillvery much needed according to their roles and obligations.
Male Alcohol Use, Intimate Partner Violence, and Female Autonomy
Authors: ELİTAŞ Zeynep , ULUCAN Hakan
Published: September 2023

Erkeğin Alkol Kullanımı, Partner Şiddeti, ve Kadın Özerkliği

Bu çalışma, yakın partner şiddetinin evli veya bir partnerle birlikte yaşayan kadının karar verme yeteneği olarak tanımlanan kadın özerkliği üzerindeki etkisini analiz etmektedir. Çalışmada Türkiye için kadına yönelik aile içi şiddete ilişkin mikro düzeydeki veri seti kullanılmıştır. Yakın partner şiddetinin ortaya çıkışının ve seviyesinin kadının karar verme özerkliği üzerindeki nedensel etkisini tahmin etmek için araçsal değişkenler yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Tahmin sonuçları, son on iki ayda partner şidddetine maruz kalmanın kadının karar verme özerkliğini önemli ölçüde azalttığını göstermektedir. Öte yandan, son bir yılda yaşanan şiddet olaylarının sayısındaki bir birimlik artışın, özerkliği azalttığı tahmin edilmiştir. Özerkliğin azalma sebebinin, kadınları çalışmaktan caydırabilecek eş şiddetinin neden olduğu istihdam kaybı olup olmadığını bulmak için başka bir tahmin daha uygulanmıştır. IV tahminleri, eş şiddetinin, evli kadınlarla sınırlı olmayan örneklem için kadınları çalışmaya ittiğini göstermektedir. Bu sonuç, istihdama katılımın tek başına hanehalkında özgürlüğü sağlamak için yeterli olmadığını ve şiddeti önlemeye yönelik hukusal ve kurumsal önlemlerin eşliğinde hareket edilmesi gerekliliğini göstermektedir.

Anahtar Kelimeler: Partner şiddeti, Kadın özerkliği, Alkol kullanımı, Hane içi pazarlığı, Araç değişken
City vulnerability to drought-related food supply shock
Authors: Mejia Alfonso , Gomez Michael
Published: September 2023

Global warming is exacerbating agricultural production losses from extreme climate events, with cascading impacts along supply chains that affect cities. However, little is known about cities’ vulnerability to climate-related food supply shocks. Here, using data-driven and network-based approaches, we determine the vulnerability of cities in the United States to domestic drought-related food shocks. Our vulnerability framework integrates key traits—resilience, exposure, and sensitivity to disruption—of a social-ecological system’s response to hazard. We find that vulnerability varies considerably across cities. It tends to be high for western cities because of both high supply chain exposure to water stress and high urban food insecurity. Using the 2012–2013 U.S. drought as a case study, we show that high-vulnerability cities are associated with more extreme food shocks and greater food supply losses than low-vulnerability cities. Our vulnerability framework can help inform climate adaptation interventions for food system security in urban-rural interactions.
Comparative efficacy of NIBS and Physical Exercise on cognitive function in patients with MCI or AD: A systematic review and meta- analysis
Authors: Jiang Yi , Guo Zhiwei , Wang Yanyan , Jiang Ning
Published: September 2023

Objective
The aim was to compare the effectiveness of Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) and physical exercise (PE) interventions on cognitive function in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or Mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Methods
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched from online databases until June, 2023. Standardized Mean Changes pre- and post-treatment were calculated for cognitive outcomes measures.
Results
79 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. For the global cognitive scale, PE had a significant effect on AD and MCI. Both NIBS and PE had a sustained and significant effect in AD/MCI based on the follow up. In sub-category functions, NIBS had significant effect on memory, for both AD and MCI. However, PE only had significant effect for AD, not for MCI. For executive function, only NIBS had significant effect only for AD. For language, NIBS and PE both had significant effect only on AD. For attention, the only significant effect was NIBS on AD.
Conclusions
NIBS significantly affects more cognitive domains of AD than PE, and it significantly improves the memory function of MCI. Given the current evidence, it is promising to be a better intervention approach to delay cognitive decline in MCI and AD patients than PE.
Erector Spinae Plane versus Paravertebral versus Multiple Intercostal Nerve Blocks in Patients undergoing VATS; A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mogahed Mona Mohamed , Elghaffar Mohamed Samir Abd , Elkahwagy Mohamed Shafik
Published: September 2023

Background
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive technique with shorter recovery times and lesser postoperative pain than open thoracotomies. Regional blocks decrease the anesthetic and postoperative analgesic requirements.
Methods
105 patients scheduled for VATS under general anesthesiea were included. Patients were randomly allocated to receive ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) on T4 and T6 levels (Group ESPB, n = 35), Paravertebral block (PVB) (Group PVB, n = 35) 20 ml bupivacaine 0.5% was injected after the anesthesia induction and turning the patient in the lateral position or multiple intercostal nerve blocks (Group MICNB, n = 35) 2–3 mL for each intercostal space from the third to the eighth intercostal nerve were injected by the surgeon through the thoracoscope. The objectives of this study were primarily to assess the effectiveness of the erector spinae plane versus paravertebral versus multiple intercostal nerve blocks on the intraoperative patient anesthetic requirements and secondarily to assess the postoperative analgesic requirements.
Results
No significant differences were observed regarding Et Sevo all over the operative time between the ESPB and the PVB group; however there were highly significant differences between either group and the MICNB group immediately after induction of anesthesia till 60 minutes later, No significant difference between ESPB and the PVB groups as regards to the total amount of intraoperative fentanyl used on the other hand there were highly significant difference between the ESPB or the PVB group and the MICNB group; while all the three groups provide comparable postoperative analgesia with non-significant difference regarding the postoperative VAS either during rest or cough.
Conclusion
ESPB and PVB provided better intraoperative anesthetic sparing effect than MICNB; however all the three blocks provide comparable postoperative analgesia either during rest or during cough in patients undergoing VATS.
Trial registration:
This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov PRS (Protocol of Registration and Result System) on 25/ 10/ 2021. The clinical trial number is NCT05091398.
Does the intensity of pain and disability affect health-related quality of life of older adults with back pain? Multilevel analysis between Brazil and Netherlands: a cross-sectional study of the BACE consortium
Authors: Grigorini Adriana Estela de Oliveira , Koes Bart , Silva Silvia Lanzioti Azevedo da , Chiarotto Alessandro , Santos Diogo Felício dos , Pereira Leani Souza Máximo , Leopoldino Amanda Aparecida Oliveira
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The prognosis of back pain (BP) in the elderly is less favorable than in younger adults and progress to adverse outcomes and consequent worsening of health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
Objective: To verify the association between BP intensity, disability and HRQoL in elderly residents in Brazil and Netherlands, and to evaluate whether the country of residence influences the associations.
Methods: Data were collected from 602 Brazilian and 675 Dutch participants with a new episode of BP from the Back Complaints in Elders (BACE) consortium. For the present study, a cross section was used. Pain intensity and disability were assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), respectively. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire. Age, sex, and education were descriptive variables. Pain intensity (NPS score) and country were the independent variables and quality of life assessed by each SF domain - 36 was the dependent variable. Analysis of models at the individual level was performed to verify the association between pain and disability, also HRQoL in Netherlands and Brazil in the total sample. The multilevel model was used to verify whether the elderly person's country of residence influenced this relationship. Results: The average age of the participants was 67.00 (7.33) years. In the total sample, linear regression analysis adjusted for sex and age showed a significant association between BP intensity scores and HRQoL, for all domains. There was no association between disability and HRQoL. In the multilevel analysis, there was an association between BP intensity and HRQoL in all domains and an association between the country of residence and HRQoL, influencing the effect of pain, in all domains, except for the physical functioning.
Conclusion: Socioeconomic and cultural aspects of different countries can affect the perception of the elderly about their HRQoL in the presence of BP. Pain and disability in Brazilian and Dutch elderly ones are experienced differently in relation to their HRQoL.
Unravelling large-scale patterns and drivers of biodiversity in dry rivers
Authors: Foulquier Arnaud , Datry Thibault , Corti Roland , von Schiller Daniel , Tockner Klement , Stubbington Rachel , Gessner Mark , Boyer Frédéric , Ohlmann Marc , Thuiller Wilfried , Rioux Delphine , Miquel Christian , Albariño Ricardo , Allen Daniel , Altermatt Florian , Arce Maria Isabel , Arnon Shai , Avi Uzan , Banas Damien , Medina Andy Banegas , Beller Erin , Blanchette Melanie L. , Blessing Joanna , Boersma Kate , Bogan Michael , Bonada Núria , Bond Nick , Brintrup Katherine , Bruder Andreas , Burrows Ryan , Cancellario Tommaso , Carlson Stephanie , Cornut Julien , Danger Michael , De Girolamo Anna Maria , Campo Rubén del , Villanueva Verónica Díaz , Duerdoth Charles Philip , Dyer Fiona , Elosegi Arturo , Febria Catherine , Figueroa Ricardo , Four Brian , Gafny Sarig , Gómez Rosa , Gener Lluís Gómez , Guareschi Simone , Hwan Jason , Kubheka Patrick S , Laini Alex , Langhans Simone Daniela , Launay Bertrand , Goff Guillaume Le , Leigh Catherine , Little Chelsea , Lorenz Stefan , Marshall Jonathan , Sanz Eduardo J. Martin , McIntosh Angus , Meyer Elisabeth I. , Miliša Marko , Mlambo Musa , Morais Manuela , Moya Nabor , Negus Peter , Niyogi Dev , Pagán Iluminada , Papatheodoulou Athina , Pappagallo Giuseppe , Pardo Isabel , Paril Petr , Pauls Steffen , Polášek Marek , Rodríguez-Lozano Pablo , Rolls Robert , Sánchez-Montoya Maria Mar , Savić Ana , Steward Alisha , Taleb Amina , Valladares Yefrin , Vorste Ross Vander , Waltham Nathan , Zoppini Annamaria
Published: September 2023

The lack of data from non-perennial rivers, which regularly cease to flow and dry up, poses a significant challenge in understanding river biodiversity. These dynamic ecosystems, accounting for over half of the global river network, remain understudied. To address this gap, we conducted a coordinated experiment and a metabarcoding approach on environmental DNA targeting multiple taxa (i.e. Archaea, Bacteria, Fungi, Algae, Protozoa, Nematoda, Arthropoda and Streptophyta). Dry sediments were collected from 84 non-perennial rivers across 19 countries on five continents to investigate biodiversity patterns and drivers. Our findings reveal that both direct (e.g., nutrient and carbon availability) and indirect (e.g., latitude and climate) drivers significantly influence local biodiversity for most taxa. In particular, we observed that low resource availability and extended dry phases promote the prevalence of oligotrophic microbial taxa, similar to soil microbial communities during drought events. Interestingly, our inferred partial correlation networks indicate that covariation among taxa, particularly Bacteria, Fungi, Algae, and Protozoa, plays a more substantial role in explaining variations in community composition than abiotic gradients. This unexpected result suggests that biotic interactions may drive community assembly in non-perennial rivers, potentially shaping biodiversity responses in the face of global changes like warming and altered hydrological patterns.
Cannabidiol ameliorates mitochondrial disease via PPARγ activation
Authors: Quintana Albert , Puighermanal Emma , Luna-Sánchez Marta , Gella Alex , Urpi Andrea , Royo Maria , Tena Paula , Appiah Isabella , de Donato Maria Helena , Menardy Fabien , Bianchi Patrizia , Alberola Mariona , Pascau Laura Rodríguez , Vergara Cristina , Walt Gunter van der , Gómez-Pallarès Mercè , Martinell Marc , Sanz Elisenda , Jurado Sandra , Soriano Francesc Xavier , Pizcueta Pilar
Published: September 2023

Mutations in mitochondrial energy-producing genes lead to a heterogeneous group of untreatable disorders known as primary mitochondrial diseases (MD). Leigh syndrome (LS) is the most common pediatric MD and is characterized by progressive neuromuscular affectation and premature death. Here, we show that daily cannabidiol (CBD) administration significantly extends lifespan and ameliorates pathology in two LS mouse models, and cellular function in fibroblast from LS patients. CBD delays motor decline and neurodegenerative signs, improves social deficits and breathing abnormalities, decreases thermally induced seizures, and improves neuropathology in affected brain regions. Mechanistically, we identify peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) as a key contributor to CBD’s beneficial effects, and provide proof of dysregulated PPARγ expression and activity as a common feature in both mouse neurons and fibroblasts from LS patients. Taken together, our results provide the first evidence for CBD as a potential treatment for LS.
Humeral Shaft Fractures: Retrospective Evaluation of Surgical Versus Non-surgical Treatment
Authors: Beraldo Rodrigo Alves , de Moraes Renato , Galdeano Ewerton Alexandre , Silva Caroline Izidorio Bernardes
Published: September 2023

Background: Humeral shaft fractures mainly affect young male adults and patients over 60 years of age. The treatment can be surgical or non-surgical, with satisfactory results in both, but the choice must be evaluated individually. The study aimed to compare the functional capacity and pain of patients treated surgically and non-surgically and to analyze associations with personal history, limb dominance, fracture complexity and complications.
Methods: The study involved 74 participants who were followed for at least 6 months and divided into two groups: surgical treatment and non-surgical treatment. Functional capacity was assessed using the QuickDash scale and pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). In addition, anthropometric and clinical data were collected. The results were analyzed with the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test using the R software, with a significance of p < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval.
Results: No statistically significant differences were found between treatment groups with regard to function (p=0.550) and pain (p=0.646). Furthermore, no significant associations were found between the variables of sex, age, personal history, limb dominance, fracture complexity and complications in both groups.
Conclusion: After a minimum period of 6 months of follow-up, patients with humeral shaft fracture treated surgically or not, presented similar results in terms of functional capacity and pain.
Level of evidence: 4 – Retrospective cohort.
Effects of helicobacter pylori infection on the risk of hypertension and coronary heart disease: a bidirectional Mendelian study
Authors: Xiong Zhijie , Ning Wenfeng , Li Yonggui
Published: September 2023

Background:
Helicobacter pylori infection (HPI) is a common gastrointestinal disease that may be associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and its risk factor, hypertension (HTN). However, the causal relationship between HPI and CAD and HTN remains unclear.
Methods:
We used bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the effects of HPI on CAD and HTN, as well as the effects of CAD and HTN on HPI. We used genetic instrumental variables (IVs) for HPI, CAD, and HTN extracted from publicly available large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. We employed multiple MR analysis methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, Mendelian Randomization Egger regression (MR-Egger), and Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), to examine causal relationships and evaluate the impact of heterogeneity and pleiotropy.
Results:
IVW analysis revealed no causal relationship between HPI and CAD or HTN. However, we observed a negative causal correlation between HPI and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), suggesting that HPI may serve as a protective factor for hypertension [SBP (Beta = -0.3509, OR, 0.7041; 95% CI, 0.5758-0.8609; P < 0.001), DBP (Beta = -0.1666, OR, 0.8463; 95% CI, 0.7537-0.9508; P = 0.007)]. Reverse MR analysis also revealed no significant effects of CAD, HTN, SBP, or DBP on HPI. Consistent results were obtained from MR-Egger and weighted median analyses, indicating minimal bias due to heterogeneity and pleiotropy.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates that there is no causal relationship between HPI and CAD or HTN, but a negative causal relationship exists between HPI and SBP and DBP. These findings provide valuable insights for clinical practice and offer a new perspective for further exploration of the relationship between HPI and cardiovascular diseases.
Combined effect of grooves and nanoflower structured Co3O4 coating on bamboo wood for highly efficient solar steam generation at indoor and outdoor conditions
Authors: Rengasamy Marimuthu , Gnanasekaran Arulmurugan , Eswaramoorthy Nandhakumar , Basker Indhumathy , Rajaram Kamatchi
Published: September 2023

Currently, interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) in desalinating water becomes very popular for obtaining purified water from polluted water. But, finding a suitable evaporator with low cost and high-efficient is the challenging task for researchers. In this work, we introduce natural bamboo wood that acts as an interfacial evaporator for obtaining purified water. Four different wood evaporators namely, flat wood (BW-FW), two-cut grooved wood (BW-2G), four-cut grooved wood (BW-4G) and four-cut grooved with Co3O4 coated wood (BW-4g/Co3O4) are used to study the mass loss (ML), evaporation rate (ER) and evaporation efficiency (EY). From the observations, BW-4g/Co3O4 gives an admirable ML, ER and EY is 4.4 g, 3.366 kg/m2h and 91.34 % under 1 sun illumination for 60 min. Also, it is kept at open atmosphere conditions under natural sun illuminations. It achieves 17.8g of ML, 1.92 kg m-2 h-1 of ER and 76 % of EY respectively under 604.762 W/m2 solar illumination for 8 h. We suggest the following are the reasons for the observed results: (i) the presence of grooves increase the exposing area for solar illuminations (ii) the super hydrophilicity nature of wood gives continuous replenishment of water from the bottom to the evaporative surface (iii) the excellent salt rejection property of wood is employed for continuous water transportation without salt accumulations. As a result, the salinity of the condensed water is measured that comes under WHO standards. Consequently, it gives better dye removal from polluted water.
Accurate machine learning force fields via experimental and simulation data fusion
Authors: Zavadlav Julija , Röcken Sebastien
Published: September 2023

Machine Learning (ML)-based force fields are attracting ever-increasing interest due to their capacity to span spatiotemporal scales of classical interatomic potentials at quantum-level accuracy. They can be trained based on high-fidelity simulations or experiments, the former being the common case. However, both approaches are impaired by scarce and erroneous data resulting in models that either do not agree with well-known experimental observations or are under-constrained and only reproduce some properties. Here we leverage both Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and experimentally measured mechanical properties and lattice parameters to train an ML potential of titanium. We demonstrate that the fused data learning strategy can concurrently satisfy all target objectives, thus resulting in a molecular model of higher accuracy compared to the models trained with a single data source. The inaccuracies of DFT functionals at target experimental properties were corrected, while the investigated off-target properties remained largely unperturbed. Our approach is applicable to any material and can serve as a general strategy to obtain highly accurate ML potentials.
Preventive effects of probiotics on asthmatic lung inflammation in an ovalbumin-induced murine model
Authors: Park Tae Il , Song Jin Yong , Lee Yubin , Lee Su hyun , Lee Ji-Yun
Published: September 2023

Background
Asthma, a prevalent chronic inflammatory lung disease that has affected over 330 million people worldwide, manifests through symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, dyspnea, and chest tightness. Probiotics, such as L. rhamnosus and B. subtilis, confer beneficial effects on allergic airway inflammation. They induce regulatory immune responses and offer the potential to restore cytokine balance in activated immune cells. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of probiotics on inflammation in pulmonary diseases by assessing their impact on airway resistance, immune cell infiltration, and allergy-related chemokine levels in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic mouse model.
Methods
Mice were sensitized to OVA through intraperitoneal injections of OVA alum on Days 0 and 7. Subsequently, the mice were subjected to aerosolized OVA challenges three times weekly from Day 14 to 28. The mice were then administered tri-weekly oral doses of L. rhamnosus or B. subtilis approximately 1 week before sensitization. Tidal volume and specific airway resistance were assessed via a methacholine test. The number of cells in lung bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was counted to assess inflammatory cell infiltration. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the protein levels of IL-13 in the BALF and the levels of antibodies, including OVA-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) and OVA-specific IgG1, in the serum. Furthermore, the lungs were subjected to histopathological analysis.
Results
The oral administration of B. subtilis and L. rhamnosus significantly decreased airway resistance, suppressed immune cell infiltration, and inhibited the production of allergy-related antibodies, including IgE and IgG1. Furthermore, B. subtilis and L. rhamnosus decreased the production of IL-13, which induces mucin production; mucin production was decreased in the B. subtilis and L. rhamnosus groups.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that oral administration of probiotics could have a potential preventive effect on asthmatic lung inflammation.
Validation of Three Tools for Identifying Postmenopausal Osteoporosis in a Han Population from six General Hospitals in Beijing: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: An Ning , Guo Sijia , Lin Jisheng , Zhuang Haoxiang , Li Jiayi , Meng Hai , Su Nan , Yang Yong , Fei Qi
Published: September 2023

Background: To evaluate the validation of three screening tools for identifying Postmenopausal Osteoporosis (OP) including the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA), Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX), and Beijing Friendship Hospital Osteoporosis Self-assessment Tool (BFH-OST).
Methods: A total of 745 community-dwelling Han Beijing postmenopausal females aged ≥45 years from six general hospitals were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. All participants completed a questionnaire and BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Osteoporosis was defined by a T-score at least −2.5 SD less than that of average young adults in different diagnostic criteria [lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, worst hip, and World Health Organization (WHO)]. The abilities of the OSTA, FRAX, and BFH-OST to identify osteoporosis were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curves (AUC) were calculated.
Results: Osteoporosis prevalence ranged from 12.1% to 34.6% according to five different diagnostic criteria. The AUC range for the BFH-OST (0.726–0.813) was similar to the OSTA (0.723– 0.810), which revealed that both tools identified OP reliably. The AUC range for FRAX was 0.66–0.784, with corresponding sensitivities of 78.68% and specificities of 50.31%, suggesting limited predictive value. According to WHO criteria, the AUC values for the BFH-OST and for the OSTA were 0.752 and 0.748, with corresponding sensitivities of 86.82% and 86.05% and specificities of 50.51% and 51.13%, respectively. At defined thresholds, the BFH-OST and OSTA allowed avoidance of DXA in 63.1%–67.9% of participants, at a cost of missing 13.2%–26.0% of individuals with OP.
Conclusions: OSTA and BFH-OST are both simple and effective tools for identifying postmenopausal osteoporosis in the Han Beijing population.
The cellular entry mechanism and potential target of the novel bioactive peptide AFYRW derived from Fagopyrum tataricum
Authors: Zuo Jie , Jiang Yuheng , Wang Chengjin , Xiao Yi , Yang Jiajun , Deng Yan , Zhang Lilin , Xu Qingzhong , Li Hongmei
Published: September 2023

The novel bioactive peptide AFYRW derived from Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) with strong antioxidant capacity was identified in our previous research, but its cellular entry and targeting mechanism remain unknown. Herein, we employed endocytosis pharmacological inhibition methodologies and determined that AFYRW localized primarily in the nucleus, and NH4Cl, chloroquine (CQ), and nystatin exposure resulted in a significantly reduced uptake by HepG2 cells. Our results indicate that the cellular uptake of AFYRW depends on caveolae-mediated endocytosis that requires a low pH, but does not involve macropinocytosis or clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In addition, biotin-streptavidin affinity purification was used to screen for interacting proteins, and protein spectrum analysis in vitro identified poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) as a potential target. Subsequent in silico molecular docking supports the presence of a peptide–protein interaction between AFYRW and PARP-1. Our findings suggest that the novel bioactive peptide AFYRW could be a potential inhibitor of PARP-1.
Climate-induced severe water scarcity events as harbinger of global grain price
Authors: Trnka Miroslav , Meitner Jan , Balek Jan , Feng Song , Arbelaez-Gaviria Juliana , Fischer Milan , Boere Esther , Havlík Petr , Kersebaum Kurt , Nendel Claas , Ruiz-Ramos Margarita , Semerádová Daniela , Semenov Mikhail , Poděbradská Markéta , Esper Jan , Buentgen Ulf , Torbenson Max , Brzezina Jáchym , Žalud Zdeněk , Katul Gabriel , Olesen Jorgen
Published: September 2023

The severe water scarcity (SWS) concept allows for consistent analysis of the supply and demand for water sourced grain production worldwide. Thus, the primary advantage of using SWS is its ability to simultaneously accommodate the spatial extent and temporal persistence of droughts using climatic data. The SWS concept was extended here to drivers of global grain prices using past SWS events and prices of three dominant grain crops: wheat, rice and maize. A significant relation between the SWS-affected area and the prices of wheat was confirmed. The past price–SWS association was then used to project future wheat prices considering likely climate change scenarios until 2050 and expected SWS extent. The projected wheat prices increase with increasing SWS area that is in turn a function of greenhouse gas emissions. The need to act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is again reinforced assuming the SWS-price relation for wheat is unaltered.
An Unprecedented Crystalline La(II)-Chalcogenide LaMg6Ga6S16 with Multifunctional Properties
Authors: Yu Hongwei , Zhang Yujie , Chen Jiale , Wu Hongping , Hu Zhanggui , Wang Jiyang , Wu Yicheng
Published: September 2023

Divalent lanthanide inorganic compounds can exhibit unique electronic configurations and physicochemical proper-ties, yet their synthesis remains a great challenge because of the weak chemical stability. To the best of our knowledge, although several lanthanide monoxides epitaxial thin films have been reported, there is no chemically stable crystalline divalent lanthanide chalcogenide synthesized up to now. Herein, by using octahedra coupling tet-rahedra single/double chains to construct a novel octahedral crystal field, we synthesized the first stable crystalline La(II)-chalcogenide, LaMg6Ga6S16. The nature of the divalent La2+ cations can be identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, while the stability is confirmed by the in-situ variable-temperature powder X-ray diffraction and a series of solid-state reactions. Owing to the particular electronic characteristics of La2+(5d1), LaMg6Ga6S16 displays a broad-band green emission at 500 nm under the excitation of 360 nm. Clearly, this is the first time for La(II)-based com-pounds to exhibit luminescent properties.
Evaluation Of the effect of Modafinil in the improvement of the level of consciousness in patients with Covid-19 encephalopathy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kiasari Fatemeh Talebi , Emamikhah Maziar , Lahiji Mohammad Niakan , Rohani Mohammad , Yazdi Narges , Naghshbandi Mobin , Ghafoury Roya , Movahedi Hamidreza , Amanollahi Alireza , Irandoost Pardis , Moghaddam Omid Moradi
Published: September 2023

Background
Covid-19 may cause encephalopathy leading to loss of consciousness. This study aimed to address this issue using modafinil.
Methods
This study was a double-blinded Randomized Clinical Trial conducted in The Rasoul Akram Hospital in Tehran, Iran. A total of 19 non-intubated Covid-related encephalopathy patients were divided into two treatment and placebo groups, receiving crushed Modafinil tablets and placebo starch powder, respectively. The drug was administered on a basis of a dose of 100 mg every two hours until reaching a peak dosage of 400 mg. In both groups, the level of consciousness was evaluated based on the Glasgow Consciousness Score (GCS) at 10, 8, 12, 14 and 16 hours on the day of medication administration. The trial registration number for this study is: IRCT20170903036041N3 which was registered on 23/5/2021. The obtained data were analyzed and compared between the two groups using SPSS version 26.
Results
The average age in the modafinil group and placebo group was 75.33 years and 70 years, respectively. There were no significant differences between the treatment and placebo groups in terms of chronic conditions, clinical symptoms, or laboratory data. GCS score was similar between the two groups (P-value = 0.699). GCS score was slightly higher in treatment group after four doses of Modafinil, which wasn’t meaningful (P-value = 0.581). GCS score after each round of drug administration wasn’t significantly different between treatment and placebo groups (P-value = 0.908).
Conclusion
Modafinil slightly improved the level of consciousness in patients with Covid-19 encephalopathy, which was not statistically significant compared to the control group.
The RNA binding protein IMP1/ZBP1 drives mRNA local translation in microglia and mediates polarized migration and phagocytosis in response to inflammation
Authors: Baleriola Jimena , Imaz-Iruretagoyena Josune , Blanco-Urrejola Maite , Cruz-Gambra Aida de la , Márquez Mar , Sierra Amanda
Published: September 2023

Polarized cells in the brain, such as neurons and glia, rely on the asymmetric distribution of their proteins compartmentalizing the function of dendrites, axons, glial projections and endfeet. Subcellular proteomes can be assembled either by the transport of proteins synthesized in the cell soma or by the delivery of mRNAs to target compartments where they are locally translated into protein. This latter mechanism is known as local protein synthesis or local translation, and it has been best studied in neurons. Increasing evidence suggest it is also required to maintain local protein homeostasis in glial cells, however, in microglia, local translation remains largely unexplored. Given the scant evidence, we aimed at exploring the existence of local translation in microglial peripheral processes (MPPs) and unravel its functional significance. We report that local translation indeed happens in MPPs and it is enhanced by triggering a microglial inflammatory response with bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) suggesting a functional relevance of this molecular mechanism in response to inflammation. We found that Actb and Par3 mRNAs polarize to MMPs and are locally translated upon LPS exposure. Interestingly, downregulation of the Actb binding protein IMP1/ZBP1 impaired Actb mRNA polarization and its localized translation, leading to defects in filopodia distribution, lamellar directed migration and phagocytosis in microglia. Thus, our work contributes to recent findings that localized translation occurs in microglia and gives a mechanistic insight into the relevance of this molecular mechanism in fundamental microglial functions in response to LPS-induced inflammation.
Sub-Volt High-Speed Silicon MOSCAP Microring Modulator Driven by High Mobility Conductive Oxide
Authors: Wang Alan , Hsu Wei-Che , Nujhat Nabila , Kupp Benjamin , Conley John , Rong Haisheng , Kumar Ranjeet
Published: September 2023

Low driving voltage (Vpp), high-speed silicon microring modulator plays a critical role in energy-efficient optical interconnect and optical computing systems owing to its ultra-compact footprint and capability for on-chip wavelength-division multiplexing. However, existing silicon microring modulators usually require more than 2 V of Vpp, which is limited by the relatively weak plasma dispersion effect of silicon and the small capacitance density of the reversed PN-junction. Here we present a highly efficient metal-oxide semiconductor capacitor (MOSCAP) microring modulator through heterogeneous integration between silicon photonics and titanium-doped indium oxide, which is a high-mobility transparent conductive oxide (TCO) material with a strong plasma dispersion effect. The device is co-fabricated by Intel's photonics fab and TCO patterning processes at Oregon State University, which exhibits a high electro-optic modulation efficiency of 117 pm/V with a low Vπ•L of 0.12 V•cm, and consequently can be driven by an extremely low Vpp of 0.8 V. At a 11 GHz modulation bandwidth where the modulator is limited by the high parasitic capacitance, we obtained 25 Gb/s clear eye diagrams with energy efficiency of 53 fJ/bit and demonstrated 35 Gb/s open eyes with a higher driving voltage. Further optimization of the device is expected to increase the modulation bandwidth up to 52 GHz that can encode data at 100 Gb/s for next-generation, energy-efficient optical communication and computation with sub-volt driving voltage without using any high voltage swing amplifier.
Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) expression as a marker of progression in melanoma
Authors: Su David , Djureinovic Dijana , Schoenfeld David , Marquez-Nostra Bernadette , Olino Kelly , Jilaveanu Lucia , Kluger Harriet
Published: September 2023

Melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) plays a critical role in human pigmentation and DNA repair mechanisms. MC1R-targeting agents are being investigated in clinical trials in melanoma patients, yet large studies investigating the rate and degree of MC1R expression in primary and metastatic human melanoma tissue are lacking. Using tissue microarrays containing three large cohorts of 225 cases of benign nevi, 189 with primary melanoma, and 271 with metastatic melanoma, we applied quantitative immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry to comprehensively study MC1R protein expression. We show a stepwise elevation of MC1R expression in different stages of melanoma progression (nevi, primary, metastasis). Higher MC1R expression was seen in deeper (>1 mm) primary lesions, ulcerated lesions, and mucosal melanomas compared to cutaneous melanomas and was associated with shorter survival in primary and metastatic tumors. On multi-variable analysis, Breslow thickness, ulceration, male sex, and chronic sun exposure were independent predictors of worse overall survival in the primary melanoma cohort. In the metastatic melanoma cohort, MC1R expression and mucosal melanomas were independent predictors of inferior overall survival. Our data suggest that MC1R might be a valuable drug target in aggressive melanoma. Additional studies are warranted to determine its functional significance in melanoma progression and its utility as a predictive biomarker in patients receiving MC1R-directed therapies.
Heterogeneous effects on type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular outcomes of genetic variants and traits associated with fasting insulin.
Authors: Manning Alisa , Sevilla-González Magdalena , Smith Kirk , Wang Ningyuan , Jensen Aubrey , Litkowski Elizabeth , Kim Hyunkyung , DiCorpo Daniel , Westerman Kenneth , Cui Jinrui , Liu Ching-Ti , Yu Chenglong , McNeil John , Lacaze Paul , Chang Kyong-Mi , Tsao Phil , Phillips Lawrence , Goodarzi Mark , Sladek Rob , Rotter Jerome , Dupuis Josee , Florez Jose , Merino Jordi , Meigs James , Zhou Jin , Raghavan Sridharan , Udler Miriam
Published: September 2023

Hyperinsulinemia is a complex and heterogeneous phenotype that characterizes molecular alterations that precede the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). It results from a complex combination of molecular processes, including insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, that differ between individuals. To better understand the physiology of hyperinsulinemia and ultimately T2D, we implemented a genetic approach grouping fasting insulin (FI)-associated genetic variants based on their molecular and phenotypic similarities. We identified seven distinctive genetic clusters representing different physiologic mechanisms leading to rising FI levels, ranging from clusters of variants with effects on increased FI, but without increased risk of T2D (non-diabetogenic hyperinsulinemia), to clusters of variants that increase FI and T2D risk with demonstrated strong effects on body fat distribution, liver, lipid, and inflammatory processes (diabetogenic hyperinsulinemia). We generated cluster-specific polygenic scores in 1,104,258 individuals from five multi-ancestry cohorts to show that the clusters differed in associations with cardiometabolic traits. Among clusters characterized by non-diabetogenic hyperinsulinemia, there was both increased and decreased risk of coronary artery disease despite the non-increased risk of T2D. Similarly, the clusters characterized by diabetogenic hyperinsulinemia were associated with an increased risk of T2D, yet had differing risks of cardiovascular conditions, including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The strongest cluster-T2D associations were observed with the same direction of effect in non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic White, and non-Hispanic East Asian populations. These genetic clusters provide important insights into granular metabolic processes underlying the physiology of hyperinsulinemia, notably highlighting specific processes that decouple increasing FI levels from T2D and cardiovascular risk. Our findings suggest that increasing FI levels are not invariably associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes.
Influence of cutting intervals and intercropping patterns on yield and competition indices in a dual purpose wheat-canola intercropping system
Authors: Khil Aka , Arif Muhammad , Din Imadud , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z. , Hodhod Mohamed S. , Górnik Krzysztof , Mosa Walid F. A. , Khan Nazir Ahmad , Rasul Fahd , Khan Hamayoon , Sajid Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Background
The dual purpose intercropping system efficiently utilizes growth resources, ensuring the availability of fresh fodder for livestock and simultaneously stabilizing grain production. The purpose of this study was to assess how cutting intervals and intercropping pattern influence yield and competition indices of a dual-purpose wheat-canola intercropping system, in order to ensure the availability of both feed and food for livestock and humans. The experiment comprised of two factors: wheat-canola intercropping patterns (sole wheat, sole canola, 1:1, 2:2, 3:3, and 4:4 alternating rows of wheat-canola) and cut intervals [no-cut, cut at 60 and 75 days after sowing (DAS)].
Results
The results revealed that sole wheat and canola had higher fresh and dry fodder yields when cut at 75 DAS. In terms of grains spike− 1, biological yield, 1000-grains weight, and grain yield, the no-cut sole wheat and canola outperformed than intercropping. However, intercropping canola with wheat in a 2:2 row pattern resulted in a higher number of grains pod− 1 compared to sole canola. The competition indices of wheat-canola intercropping exhibited that wheat had the greatest advantage in the intercropping system across various parameters, including aggressivity, actual yield loss, competition ratio, area-time equivalent ratio, land utilization efficiency, intercropping advantage, monetary advantage index, relative crowding coefficient, land equivalent ratio and system productivity index. The wheat-canola intercropped in 1:1 alternative rows, cutting at 75 DAS and their interaction had the highest competition index values.
Conclusion
The present study concludes that intercropping wheat-canola in 1:1 alternative rows and cutting at 75 DAS will fulfil livestock feed requirements as well as provide grains for human consumption as food. Farmers should use a 1:1 alternative rows wheat-canola intercropping system and cut at 75 DAS to achieve long-term feed and food security.