bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain-gut-microbiota axis: effect of basil oil on the gut microbiota and its contribution to the anticonvulsant properties
Authors: Boamah Vivian Etsiapa , Ekuadzi Edmund , Mante Priscilla Kolibea
Published: May 2023

Background
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain and it is characterized by seizures. Research suggests the involvement of the Brain-Gut-Microbiota axis in epilepsy. This study seeks to determine the role of the gut microbiota in the anticonvulsant effect of basil oil (BO) using antibiotic-depleted and altered mice against germ mice in PTZ induced seizure model. There has been ever growing interest to improve treatment outcome in epilepsy and also increase therapy options especially in the population of patients that do not attain seizure relief from available AEDs. According to research, gut microbiota can alter brain function and development and vice versa. This led to the study of the BGM axis and its involvement in neurological diseases such as epilepsy. Increasing evidence suggests that intestinal microbiota have effects on brain development and disrupting this delicate symbiotic balance existing between these two results in disease conditions. Also, the oil from Ocimum basilicum, BO has been proven scientifically to significantly block clonic seizures induced by PTZ and picrotoxin in seizure models.
Methods
The microbiota of mice were depleted or altered by administering cocktail antibiotics and individual antibiotics respectively. DNA was extracted from stool of mice and the 16S rRNA gene amplified in a quantitative RT-PCR. Amplicons were sequenced to determine the phylogenetic make-up of the bacteria involved. Metabolic profile of the serum and stool of mice were determined in a 1H NMR spectroscopy.
Results
Cocktail antibiotic pre-treatment significantly reversed the anticonvulsant effect of BO against frequency and duration of seizures but did not affect latency to seizure. The effect of BO in mice pre-treated with single antibiotics was lost against latency to seizures, frequency and duration compared to mice that received only BO. The phylogenetic make-up of antibiotic pre-treated groups showed distorted composition of the microbiota compared to the control group.
Conclusion
Depleted microbiota significantly reversed the anticonvulsant actions of BO. The concentrations of SCFAs in stool was higher than in serum. Administration of BO may not affect the distribution of microorganisms in the microbiota. The increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio in groups with depleted microbiota may have enhanced the reversal of anticonvulsant actions of BO.
Effects of adherence in the drying of brewer’s spent grain with rotating equipment
Authors: Pinto Guilherme Henrique Alves , Freire Jose Teixeira , Freire Flávio Bentes , Saldarriaga Juan , Freire Fábio Bentes
Published: May 2023

Brewer's spent grain (BSG) is a biomass with a high lignocellulosic content that can be reused in thermal processes, however it has high moisture content, which avoids it from being used in these processes. Pretreatment by drying rotating equipment turns out to be a suitable alternative. This work studied the rotational drying of BSG analyzing the effects of adhesion of solids. To do this, a standard pan combined with an external blower was chosen as a rotary dryer due to the easy access to the bed and the inner surface of the dryer. In addition, this type of dryer made possible to determine the relationship between BSG moisture and adhesion force. Under the operating conditions of the experiments, the moisture content of BSG decreased from 80 to 8.6% (wb), making it possible for the biomass to be utilized in thermal processes. Moisture ratios higher than 0.6 led to greater adherence and consequent agglomeration of solids, reducing their mobility and heat transfer with the internal surface of the dryer. At the start of drying, the bed’s rotational speed rate of BSG was approximately 14 rpm, half of the maximum rate of 28 rpm, also the temperatures of the BSG and the inner wall of the tray were in equilibrium, showing that changes in biomass adhesion would take non-uniform drying.
Prevalence and estimation of the evolution of myopia in Spanish children
Authors: Sanchez-Tena Miguel Angel , Martinez-Perez Clara , Villa-Collar Cesar , González-Pérez Mariano , González-Abad Ana , Afflelou Alain , Alvarez-Peregrina Cristina
Published: May 2023

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the myopia prevalence in Spanish children from five to seven years old over the last five years and to predict the rate of myopia in Spain by 2030.
Methods: The sample consisted of children aged between 5 and 7, who underwent an optometric examination consisting of the measurement of visual acuity (VA) and determination of objective and subjective refraction. In addition, they completed a lifestyle questionnaire. The cut-off points to define the refractive error are established according to the spherical equivalent (SE) value as hyperopia, for SE over +0.50D, myopia, for SE under -0.50D, or emmetropia, when the SE is between -0.50D and +0.50D.
Results: The myopia rate in Spanish children aged between five and seven was 19%. Myopia prevalence progressively increased as children grew up (p≤0.001). It is estimated that, in the year 2030, the rate of myopia will be 30.2% [CI: 25.3–35.0]. Of which 81.9% [CI: 78.3–85.3] will have low myopia, 10.0% [CI: 7.2–12.8] moderate myopia, and 7.3% [CI: 4.9–9.7] high myopia.
Conclusion: Nineteen percent of Spanish children between five and seven are myopes. In 2030 is expected that 30.2% of Spanish children between 5 and 7 years of age will be myopes. These estimations will support eye care professionals in recommending children spend more time outdoors to prevent the onset of myopia and the use of methods to control myopia to avoid reaching these figures of high myopia.
Evaluation of Single and Multiple Hyaluronic Acid Injections at Different Concentrations with High Molecular Weight in The Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: SAFALI Selim , ERTAS Erkan Sabri , CATAKLİ Deniz
Published: May 2023

Background
Knee osteoarthritis is severe progressive and most commonly diagnosed articular disease and its incidence is increasing around the world depending on age. This pathologic condition which limit daily activity of patients can be characterized by degeneration of cartilage and inflammation. Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAII) agents and other analgesics are routinely used treatment options, the potential effects of intraarticular injections including hyaluronic acid have also been demonstrated by various studies. However, there are few studies that comparing efficacy of single high molecular weight (HMW) high dose and triple HMW low dose. This study aimed to compare efficacy of single high molecular weight (HMW) high dose (2 mL / 60 mg) and triple HMW low dose (2 mL /30 mg) intra-articular injection of HA in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients by evaluating function and pain parameters during a 12 months.
Methods
In this single-center, double-blind randomized clinical trial performed on 128 patients who randomly divided into two groups. Group I (n = 64) patients received 60 mg of HA injection with SEMICAL®. Group II (n = 64) patients received triple 30 mg of SEMICAL® HA injection. Lequesne Index, WOMAC and VAS scores were recorded to asses’ pain and function during 12 months.
Results
There was no significant difference characteristics of patient. Our results showed that WOMAC, VAS score values and Lequesne Index values of follow-up visits of patients were found lower with 30 mg of HA injection compared to the 60 mg of HA injection.
Conclusion
This study suggests that the triple low-dose injection of HMW HA is more effective in improving WOMAC, VAS scores and Lequesne Index values than a single high-dose injection.
Potential of cyclodextrins-based formulations in the control of the date moth Ectomyelois ceratoniae (Pyralidae)
Authors: Abada Maha Ben , Hamdi Soumaya Haoual , Soltani Abir , Boushih Emna , Fourmentin Sophie , Gerges Hélène Greige , Jemâa Jouda Mediouni Ben
Published: May 2023

Recently essential oils (EOs) encapsulation is experiencing growing applications in the agricultural and agri-food sector. Encapsulation is reported as safe environmental technology leading to a reduction of conventional insecticides use. This study concerns the assessment of fumigant toxicity and persistence of Rosmarinus officinalis EO encapsulated in two cyclodextrins β-CD and HP-β-CD against larvae of the date moth, Ectomyelois ceratoniae. The retention capacity, encapsulation efficacy, loading capacity and release behavior of the two inclusion complexes were investigated. The results showed that the encapsulation efficiency of HP-β-CD (EE = 25.25%) was higher than that of β-CD (EE = 17.73%). Additionally, compared to crude EO, the in vitro release profile of the two inclusion complexes showed a slow and sustained release. (0.0009 and 0.0007 min− 1 for β-CD and HP-β-CD, respectively). After 30 days of exposure, the larval mortality rates for HP-β-CD/EO and β-CD/EO inclusion complexes were 40.38 and 53.85%, respectively. Furthermore, the half-life of HP-β-CD and β-CD/EO inclusion complexes (9.620 and 8.045 days) was significantly longer than that of the crude EO (5.245days). This study supports the use of cyclodextrins, mainly HP-β-CD, in the date industry for the control of insect pests.
Effect of methyl substitution on hydrogen bond structure of anthocyanin
Authors: Liu QiFan , Aizezi Nuerbiye , Abulimiti Bumaliya , Xiang Mei , Wumaierjiang Naipisai , Zhang ZhongXin
Published: May 2023

In nature, hydrogen bonding is a common physical occurrence that has a significant impact on the surroundings of anthocyanins. Water molecules will create hydrogen bonds with anthocyanin molecules in various configurations, but the characteristics of these hydrogen bonds will change. Varied hydrogen bonding characteristics have varied impacts on solvent solutions. This research analyzes the differences in hydrogen bonding qualities caused by different methyl structures, as well as the underlying explanations. In this study, the cyanidin (Cy) and peonidin (Pn) structures of anthocyanin molecules were calculated in various stable hydrogen bond configurations using density functional theory B3LYP/6-31G(d,p). combined with information from the Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) spectrum, Atoms In Molecules (AIM) analysis, interaction energy E, and intermolecular hydrogen bond length. Determine the hydrogen bond structure that is the most stable by analyzing it, as well as the effects of replacing the hydroxyl group with a methyl group and any potential underlying causes.
Lupus autoantibodies initiate a maladaptive equilibrium sustained by HMGB1:RAGE signaling and reversed by LAIR-1:C1q signaling
Authors: Diamond Betty
Published: May 2023

Cognitive impairment is a frequent manifestation of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), present in up to 80% of patients and leading to a diminished quality of life. We have developed a model of lupus-like cognitive impairment which is initiated when anti-DNA, anti-N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) cross- reactive antibodies, which are present in 30% of SLE patients, penetrate the hippocampus1. This leads to immediate, self-limited excitotoxic death of CA1 pyramidal neurons followed by a significant loss of dendritic arborization in the remaining CA1 neurons and impaired spatial memory. Both microglia and C1q are required for dendritic loss. Here we show that this pattern of hippocampal injury creates a maladaptive equilibrium that is sustained for at least one year. It requires HMGB1 secretion by neurons to bind RAGE, a receptor for HMGB1 expressed on microglia, and leads to decreased expression of microglial LAIR-1, an inhibitory receptor for C1q. The angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor captopril, which can restore a healthy equilibrium, microglial quiescence, and intact spatial memory, leads to upregulation of LAIR-1. This paradigm highlights HMGB1:RAGE and C1q:LAIR-1 interactions as pivotal pathways in the microglial–neuronal interplay that defines a physiologic versus a maladaptive equilibrium.
Development of Novel Nanoadsorbent from Azadirachta indica (Neem) Dead Bark for Removal of Organic Contaminants from Polluted Water: Kinetic, Isotherm and Thermodynamic Study
Authors: Mordhiya Bhanupriya , Sharma Rekha , Meena Parmeshwar Lal , Meena Pooja , Selwal Chetan
Published: May 2023

In this study, the adsorption of cationic organic dye methylene blue (MB) from an aqueous solution was investigated using a nano-adsorbent (active carbon) made from the dead bark of Azadirachta indica (neem) by using FTIR, zeta-potential analysis, X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, FESEM, BET, and TEM analytical tools, the synthesized nano adsorbent was evaluated for its characteristics. N2 sorption study confirms that the prepared adsorbent depicted a type IV isotherm with H3 type of hysteresis loop, which reveals the subsistence of the development of mesoporous material with a pore diameter in the 2–50 nm range. In the batch approach, the experimentations were run to equilibrium isotherm study. For the removal of the dye, the effects of variables, including contact time, pH, temperature, initial dye concentration, and adsorption dose, were investigated. In 80 min. of equilibrium time, 99.49% of MB dye at 30 mg/L of initial concentration was withdrawn at pH 11 with 30 mg of adsorbent. However, the % removal of dye was found to be declined to 90.62% on a rising initial concentration of 60 mg/L under similar conditions. The adsorption data was found to be appropriate to the Langmuir isotherm model, as confirmed by the correlation coefficient (R2) value (0.997), and the utmost adsorption competence was estimated to be 106.92 mg/g at 303 K. In addition, it was found that the removal process followed a pseudo-second-order kinetics and intra-particle diffusion of MB dye molecules process is the controlling process but not a sole directing factor. The negative ΔG° and positive ΔH° decided the spontaneity and endothermic nature of adsorption practice, while the positive value entropy (ΔS°) reflected that adsorption of MB molecules favored an increment of disorderliness at the adsorbate-adsorbent interface.
Frequency of benign tumors after partial nephrectomy and the association between malignant tumor findings and preoperative clinical parameters
Authors: Lounová Veronika , Vladimír Jr. Št , Purová Dana , Hartmann Igor , Vidlář Aleš , Študent Vladimír
Published: May 2023

Background
Partial nephrctomy (PN) has become the dominant treatment modality for cT1 renal tumor lesions. Tumors suspected of malignant potential are indicated for surgery, but some are histologically classified as benign lesions after surgery. This study aims to analyze the number of benign findings after PN according to definitive histology and to evaluate whether there is an association between malignant tumor findings and individual factors.
Methods
The retrospective study included 555 patients who underwent open or robotic-assisted PN for a tumor in our clinic from January 2013 to December 2020. The cohort was divided into groups according to definitive tumor histology (malignant tumors vs. benign lesions). The association of factors (age, sex, tumor size, R.E.N.A.L.) with the malignant potential of the tumor was further evaluated.
Results
In total, 462 tumors were malignant (83%) and 93 benign (17%). Of the malignant tumors, 66% were clear-cell RCC, 12% papillary RCC, and 6% chromophobe RCC. The most common benign tumor was oncocytoma in 10% of patients, angiomyolipoma in 2%, and papillary adenoma in 1%. In univariate analysis, there was a higher risk of malignant tumor in males (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.36-3.36, p=0.001), a higher risk of malignancy in tumors larger than 20 mm (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.43-3.74, p<0.001), and a higher risk of malignancy in tumors evaluated by R E.N.A.L. as tumors of intermediate or high complexity (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.76-4.47, p < 0.001). In contrast, there was no association of older age with the risk of malignant renal tumor (p = 0.878).
Conclusions
In this group, 17% of tumors had benign histology. Male sex, tumor size greater than 20 mm, and intermediate or high R.E.N.A.L. complexity were statistically significant predictors of malignant tumor findings.
Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of whitening toothpastes in buccal mucosal cells: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vladislavic Nada Zorica , Vladislavic Jasen , Franic Ivana , Tadin Antonija
Published: May 2023

Objectives: To assess genotoxic and cytotoxic effect of commercially available toothpastes with the different whitening ingredients.
Materials and Methods: In vivo assessment of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of whitening toothpastes with different ingredients using a buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCyt assay) comprised 199 participants randomly divided into ten groups based on used whitening or control/conventional toothpaste. The exfoliated buccal mucosal cells were collected, stained and microscopically evaluated at baseline, 30 days and 60 days after the beginning of treatment, and 30 days after completing treatment: follow-up.
Results: The genotoxic parameters showed no biologically significant changes in any of the observed period for the tested toothpastes, while cytotoxic parameters (number of cells with karyorrhexis and condensed chromatin) showed statistically significant difference (p>0.05) amongst evaluation periods for the three peroxide containing toothpaste.
Conclusions: Peroxide containing whitening toothpastes present significant increase of cytotoxicity (numbers of karyorrhexis and condensed chromatin) during the application period only.
Clinical Significance: Whitening toothpaste show no genotoxic effect, while peroxide containing whitening toothpastes may present significant increase of cytotoxicity (numbers of karyorrhexis and condensed chromatin) during application period. In clinical conditions, the obtained changes can’t be considered as significant.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04460755
Comparative evaluation of effect of Nisin incorporated ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid and MTAD on endodontic biofilm eradication, smear layer removal and depth of sealer penetration.
Authors: Parayatum Dhruv Rao , Adimalapu Hima Sandeep , Manavalan Madhana Madhubala , Sekar Mahalaxmi
Published: May 2023

Objectives
To comparatively evaluate the Nisin incorporated ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (N-EDTA) and MTAD on cytotoxicity, endodontic biofilm eradication potential, smear layer removal ability and sealer penetration depth.
Materials and methods
N-EDTA was prepared and characterized using High performance liquid chromatography(HPLC). Minimum Inhibitory, Minimum Bactericidal and Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration(MBC,MIC and MBIC) were determined. Cytocompatibility of N- EDTA and MTAD was evaluated using 3,(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT) based colorimetric assay. Dentin specimens (n = 88 for antibacterial analysis, n=170 for sealer penetration depth) were prepared and subjected to the classical irrigating strategy and obturation respectively. The scanning electron microscopic evaluation(SEM) was done for evaluation of biofilm disruption and smear layer removal. Confocal laser scanning microscopy(CLSM) evaluation was done for determining percentage of bacterial viability and sealer penetration depth. Statistical analysis of One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD post hoc tests for bacterial viability, Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann Whitney test for smear layer removal and depth of penetration were done with the significance level set at p<0.05.
Results
MTAD and N- EDTA showed cytocompatibility without any statistical difference each other. For N-EDTA, the MIC and MBC values were 12.5μg/ml (1:8) and MBIC values were 36 μg/ml. Biofilm disruption and killed bacterial percentage of N-EDTA was statistically higher than MTAD, whereas both the materials showed similar efficacy in the removal of smear layer and sealer penetration depth.
Conclusion
N-EDTA had negligible cytotoxicity with similar smear layer removal ability, sealer penetration and better antibiofilm potential than MTAD
Clinical relevance
N-EDTA can serve as a viable alternative endodontic irrigant.
RETRACTED: Screening Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Landraces collected from Aegean-Mediterranean Region of Anatolia: Diversity in organic acid
Authors: Kaya Seçkin , ERKEN Okan , KIZILKAYA Bayram
Published: May 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Purpose in Life, Loneliness and Depression Among Patients with Substance Use Disorders in the Psychiatric Hospitals in Ghana.
Authors: Nkyi Anthony Kwabena , Ninnoni Jerry Paul
Published: May 2023

This study aims to further the understanding of purpose in life, depression and loneliness among substance use disorders (SUD) patients in psychiatric hospitals in Ghana. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design. A total of 625 SUD inpatients were screened. Beck Depression Inventory-II, the revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the Purpose in Life Test were utilised to measure depression, loneliness, and purpose in life. Data were analysed using the SPSS version 23 for Windows. Data from 378 participants were collected for this study; after data cleaning, frequency tables (for categorical variables) and descriptive statistics (for continuous variables) were used to summarise the demographics and the three outcome variables, depression, purpose in life, and loneliness. Our findings indicate that overall, participants had low levels of depression, moderately high levels of purpose in life, and moderate levels of loneliness. There was no statistically significant relationship between depression and loneliness (r = 0.030, p = 0.567). There was a statistically significant negative relationship between depression and purpose in life (r = -0.514, p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant positive relationship between purpose in life and loneliness (r = 0.147, p = 0.004). There was no gender difference in depression, purpose in life, and loneliness, among SUDs patients in psychiatric hospitals. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will inform policies and clinical practice regarding service provision for patients with SUDs to improve their quality of life.
Study of some microRNA on chromosome 19 (C19MC) in serum and breast cancer tissue
Authors: Altalebi Saif Adil Ridha , Haghi Mehdi , Feizi Mohammad Ali Hosseinpour
Published: May 2023

Background
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among females worldwide. Many studies suggest that certain RNAs play a role in carcinogenesis. The primate-specific microRNA gene cluster on chromosome 19 q27.3 region (C19MC) could regulate tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
Objective
In this study, we compared the expression of miRNAs of the C19MC cluster in breast cancer tumor and non-tumor samples, as well as in the serum of BC-affected and healthy individuals.
Methods
Peripheral blood was collected from 100 people with BC and 100 healthy individuals, and breast cancer samples of tumor and margin tissue were collected. After RNA extraction, cDNA was synthesized using RT-PCR. The expression of C19MC, including miR-515-1, miR-515-2, miR-516-A1, miR-516-A2, miR-516-B1, miR-516-B2, miR-517-A, miR-517-B, miR-517-C, and miR-518-A1, in the control-patient serum and tissue of BC and tumor margin were investigated using real-time PCR. Statistical analyses and ROC curves were generated using GraphPad Prism software (v8.04), and a p-value of 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
Our findings show that high expression of all C19MC miRNAs mentioned, except miR-517-B and miR-517-C, tightly correlates with BC and can be utilized as noticeable non-invasive tumor markers.
Conclusion
Our data support a general effect of C19MC miRNAs on BC detection and highlight the potential role of several C19MC members in this process.
Parametric imaging of P-glycoprotein function at the blood-brain barrier using kE,brain-maps generated from [11C]metoclopramide PET data in rats, nonhuman primates and humans
Authors: BREUIL Louise , ELBIALI Myriam , VODOVAR Dominique , MARIE Solène , AUVITY Sylvain , BAUER Martin , GOUTAL Sébastien , RODRIGO Sebastian , LANGER Oliver , Tournier Nicolas
Published: May 2023

Purpose
PET imaging using [11C]metoclopramide revealed the importance of P-glycoprotein (P-gp, ABCB1) in mediating the brain-to-blood efflux of substrates across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this work, the elimination rate constant from the brain (kE,brain), calculated from dynamic PET images without the need for arterial blood sampling, was evaluated as an outcome parameter for the interpretation of [11C]metoclopramide PET data.
Procedures:
k E,brain parameter was obtained by linear regression of log-transformed brain time-activity curves (TACs). kE,brain values (h− 1) obtained under baseline conditions were compared with values obtained after complete P-gp inhibition using tariquidar in rats (n = 4) and baboons (n = 4) or after partial inhibition using cyclosporine A in humans (n = 10). In baboons, the sensitivity of kE,brain to measure complete P-gp inhibition was compared with outcome parameters derived from kinetic modeling using a 1-tissue compartment model (1-TCM). Finally, kE,brain-maps were generated in each species using PMOD software.
Results
The The linear part of the log-transformed brain TACs occurred from 10–30 min after radiotracer injection in rats, from 15–60 min in baboons and from 20–60 min in humans. P-gp inhibition significantly decreased kE,brain values by 39 ± 12% in rats (p < 0.01), by 32 ± 6% in baboons (p < 0.001) and by 37 ± 22% in humans (p < 0.001). In baboons, P-gp inhibition consistently decreased the brain-to-plasma efflux rate constant k2 (36 ± 9%, p < 0.01) leading to an increase in the total brain volume of distribution (VT, 101 ± 12%, p < 0.001). In all studied species, brain kE,brain-maps displayed decreased P-gp-mediated efflux across the BBB.
Conclusions
k E,brain of [11C]metoclopramide provides a simple outcome parameter to describe P-gp function in the living brain when arterial input function data are unavailable, although less sensitive than VT. kE,brain-maps represent easy to compute parametric images reflecting the effect of P-gp on [11C]metoclopramide elimination from the brain.
SRF SUMOylation modulates smooth muscle phenotypic switch and vascular remodeling
Authors: Xu Yue , Zhang Haifeng , Pober Jordan , Min Wang , Zhou Huanjiao
Published: May 2023

Serum response factor (SRF) controls gene transcription in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and regulates VSMC phenotypic switch from a contractile to a synthetic state, which plays a key role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). SRF activity is regulated by its associated cofactors. However, it is not known how post-translational SUMOylation regulates the SRF activity in CVD. Here, we show that Senp1 deficiency in VSMCs increased SUMOylated SRF and the SRF-ELK complex, leading to augmented vascular remodeling and neointimal formation in mice. Mechanistically, SENP1 deficiency in VSMCs increased SRF SUMOylation at lysine 143, which reduced its lysosomal localization concomitant with increased nuclear accumulation. SUMOylation of SRF switched its binding with the contractile phenotype-responsive cofactor myocardin to binding with the synthetic phenotype-responsive cofactor phosphorylated ELK1. Both SUMOylated SRF and phosphor-ELK1 were increased in VSMCs from coronary arteries of CVD patients. Importantly, preventing the shift from SRF-myocardin to SRF-ELK complex by AZD6244 inhibited the excessive proliferative, migratory, and synthetic phenotypes, attenuating neointimal formation in Senp1-deficient mice. Therefore, targeting the SRF complex may have a therapeutic potential for the treatment of CVD.
Sox11 Modulates Redox Homeostasis and Chemoresistance via Tcl1a and Prdx2 Upregulation in Aggressive Mcl
Authors: Balsas Patricia , De Bolòs Anna , Sureda-Gómez Marta , Carreras-Caballé Maria , Rodríguez Marta-Leonor , Campo Elias , Amador Virginia
Published: May 2023

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an incurable B-cell neoplasm characterized by its aggressive behavior, short responses to conventional therapies and SOX11 overexpression. Oxidative stress is known to induce tumorigenesis and tumor progression, whereas high levels of antioxidant genes have been associated with chemoresistance in different cancers. However, the role of oxidative stress in MCL pathogenesis and the involvement of SOX11 regulating redox homeostasis in MCL cells are largely unknown. Here, we observed that aggressive SOX11 + MCL presented higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and increased expression of oxidative stress-related genes compared to SOX11- MCL primary cases. Upregulation of the antioxidant gene PRDX2 and the proto-oncogene TCL1A significantly correlated with SOX11 overexpression and associated with worse patients’ overall survival. SOX11 knockout (SOX11KO) significantly reduced TCL1A. Moreover, SOX11KO and TCL1A knockdown (TCL1AKD) reduced PRDX2 expression in MCL cell lines. SOX11KO, TCL1AKD and PRDX2KD increased ROS levels and tumor cell death upon drug treatment in vitro. Interestingly, TCL1AKD reduced tumor growth in vivo, suggesting its involvement in MCL tumorigenesis. Overall, our results suggest an aberrant redox homeostasis associated with chemoresistance in aggressive MCL through TCL1A and PRDX2 upregulation, highlighting them as promising targets for new therapeutic strategies to overcome chemoresistance in aggressive MCLs.
Estimation of genomic DNA content of some selected cryptic species of underutilized legume Canavalia
Authors: Chauhan Arpit , Tamang Padma , Jena Satya Narayan , Dikshit Nilamani , Mohanty Chandra Sekhar
Published: May 2023

Canavalia spp. is an important underutilized legume crop with many valuable nutritional and medicinal properties. It is a potent crop that can be explored to meet the demand of protein rich food for the ever-increasing population. In the present study the genome size and 2C DNA content of five different Canavalia species were estimated using flow cytometry following the pre-optimized protocol. With reference to the two internal standards, Glycine max Merr. ‘Polanka ’and Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Stupicke polni rane’ the 2C genomic DNA content of five Canavalia species was estimated range from 1399 to 1487 Mb and 1379 to 1477 Mb. Less variation was observed in genomic content of five species of Canavalia. These findings will be crucial to unravel the genomic architecture, which will not only provide valuable information at the structural level but will also facilitate genetic improvement of these lines for further use in future.
Maternal Healthcare Use by Women with Disabilities in Rajasthan, India: A Secondary Analysis of the Annual Health Survey
Authors: Casebolt Tara , Singh Kavita , Speizer Ilene S. , Halpern Carolyn T
Published: May 2023

Background
Women with disabilities face a number of barriers when accessing reproductive health services, including maternal healthcare. These include physical inaccessibility, costs, transportation, negative attitudes from family and healthcare providers, and a societal belief people with disabilities shouldn’t be parents. While qualitative studies have uncovered these barriers, there is limited quantitative research to determine their impact on use of maternal health services. This study aims to analyze associations between disability and maternal healthcare use among married women in Rajasthan.
Methods
This study is a secondary analysis of the Indian Annual Heath Survey first wave data from 2011. The sample includes 141,983 women aged 15–49 who had given birth between 2007 and 2009. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between disability and use of antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care. Stratified models were created to analyze difference based on birth order of the pregnancy and whether the woman’s place of residence is rural or urban.
Results
The prevalence of disability was 1.23%. Attending at least three antenatal care visits was reported by 50.66% of the sample, skilled delivery use by 83.81%, and receiving postnatal care within 48 hours of birth by 76.02%. In the regression model, women with disabilities were less likely to report attending the minimum antenatal care visits (OR = 0.84; CI: 0.76, 0.92). No association was found between disability and skilled delivery or postnatal care. Once the sample was stratified by birth order, women with disabilities reporting their first birth were more likely to report receiving postnatal care than women without disabilities (OR = 1.47; CI: 1.13, 1.91).
Conclusion
Additional research is needed to determine use of maternal healthcare among women with disabilities in India. Maternal services need to be assessed to determine their accessibility, especially regarding recent laws requiring accessibility.
Baseline SCAT5 performance in Spanish rugby players of different levels
Authors: Solis-Mencia Cristian , Ramos-Álvarez Juan J. , Maté-Muñoz José L. , Montoya-Miñano Juan J. , Martín Laura , García-Horcajo Pablo , Requeno-Conde Carlota , Iglesias Elena Oliva , Sousa Luis de Sousa-de , García-Fernández Pablo
Published: May 2023

Background Concussion is frequent in contact sports, with rugby being one of the sports with the highest rates of concussion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the baseline Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-5 (SCAT5) values in community Hispanic rugby players of both sexes. Methods The SCAT5 was administered as part of the pre-season medical testing to 219 Hispanic rugby players (female = 81; male = 138). Results Most of the community Spanish rugby players presented some symptom in the SCAT5 (male = 75.4%; female = 91.4%). The number and severity of the symptoms reported by the male players were lower than those reported by the female players (p = 0.001). The time to complete the tandem gait test and balance showed differences between sexes (p < 0.001). Conclusions The baseline SCAT5 values of community Spanish rugby players are different from the baseline SCAT5 values of professional players, which leads to the recommendation of conducting the SCAT5 in all players before the beginning of the season. If the baseline evaluation of the players cannot be performed, it is adequate to use reference values of the population with the most similar characteristics.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Service Utilization and Associated Factors among Adolescent and Youth in Dire Dawa City, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Legesse , Guta Alemu , Fentie Dilnessa
Published: May 2023

Background
adolescents and youth characterized by significant physiological, psychological, and social changes; these were put them at high risk for several sexual and reproductive health problems. Insufficient studies have addressed the burden and risk factors of young people’s sexual and reproductive health services utilization in Ethiopia.
Objective
This study aimed to investigate the adolescents and youth sexual and reproductive health service utilization and associated factors in Dire Dawa City Administration, Eastern Ethiopia.
Methods
For the quantitative data, community-based cross-sectional study was carried out using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using pretested interview-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 24.0. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis were done to determine the association between the dependent and independent variables. For the qualitative data, phenomenological study was conducted and thematic analysis was employed.
Results
This study revealed that the overall sexual and reproductive health service utilization was found to be 39.5%. Youths’ preference regarding the services majority preferred special service hours designated for adolescents (55.6%), (46.9) preferred a discounted price (43.2%) preferred free service, (37% %) preferred young health providers of the same sex. Having discussion on sexual and reproductive health issues with family, living with partner/friend, convenient service hour, short distance from health facility, having sexual activity within the last 12 months were among the factors associated with sexual and reproductive health services utilization.
Conclusion and recommendation:
This study revealed that the overall sexual and reproductive health service utilization was found to be low. Considering the physical and psychological changes of adolescents’ the discussion on sexual and reproductive health matters is highly important and expected from every family.
Diurnal variation of rain drop size distribution over the Western Ghats in India
Authors: Kumar Amit , Srivas A. K. , Chakravarty K. , Srivas Manoj K.
Published: May 2023

Joss-Waldvogel Disdrometer (JWD) measurements at the High-Altitude Cloud Physics Laboratory (HACPL: 17.56°N, 73.4°E, above 1373 m MSL), Mahabaleshwar were investigated for determining the diurnality of the drop size distribution (DSD) associated with the precipitation characteristics over the Western Ghats. Here, we examined the JWD data from 2015 to 2019 collected during the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) season. The number concentration of rain droplets of various diameters is considerably varying with the rain rate (R) and type of precipitating cloud. With increasing the value of R, rain droplets having larger diameter concentration significantly increase, and distribution tail moves to the biggest droplets. The average of reflectivity (Z), R, liquid water content (LWC), mass-weighted mean diameter (Dm), and normalized intercept parameter (log10Nw) have higher values from the heavy rainfall (Rhigh ≥10 mm/hr) in comparison to the low rainfall (Rlow < 10 mm/hr) for seasonal rainfall. The gamma distribution of DSD shows significant difference during the low and heavy precipitation on different time period (e.g. 00-06, 06-12, 12-18, 18-24 LST). The number of rain events contributing to the total accumulated rain varies with time. The maximum number of rain events occurred during 12-18 LST, with 23.6 % rain events of low rainfall and 4.9% of heavy rainfall. The bimodality is observed in the diurnal variation of Dm, R, and Z, with the largest peak recorded in the late afternoon (13-16 LST) and the second crest in the early morning hours (05 LST). At the same time, the log10Nw value drops down, indicating the lowest concentration of rain droplets. Several factors, like the land-sea breeze, complex mountainous terrain, and amount of surface reaching solar radiation may control the formation of precipitating clouds at the microphysical scale on the windward side of the Western Ghats, and may also responsible for the observed diurnality in DSD.
Spectral theorems for Wigner transform associated with the Jacobi-Dunkl localization operators
Authors: Chana Ahmed , Akhlidj Abdellatif
Published: May 2023

The main purpose of this paper is to define the Wigner transform associated with the Jacobi-Dunkl operator and to give some results related to this transform as inversion formula, next motivated by Wong’s point of view we define a class of pseudo-differential operator Lu,v(σ) called localization operator wich depend on a symbol σ and two functions u and v, we give a criteria in terms of the symbol σ for its boundedness and compactness,we also show that these operators belongs to the Schatten-Von Neumann class Sp for all p ∈ [1; +∞] and we give a trace formula.
MSC2020-Mathematics Subject Classification: 42B10, 47G30, 47B10.
Machine Learning Strategies for Malaria Risk Prediction based on Text-based Clinical Information
Authors: SAHU PRABHAT , Priyadarshini Pragati , Tripathy Smaranika , Das Yasaswi , Pradhan Suvendu
Published: May 2023

Transmitted through mosquito bites, malaria is a disease that poses a serious threat to life and is caused by parasites. Its impact on the health of infants, children, and pregnant women globally is substantial, often leading to child malnutrition and contributing to a rise in infant mortality rates. According to the 2020 World malaria report published by WHO, there was significant increase in 14 million more cases and 69000 more deaths as compared to 2019. The emergence of insecticide and drug resistance in mosquitoes has led to setbacks in malaria control effects. Hence, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential for effective management and control of the disease. However, traditional diagnostic methods are time-consuming, costly, and require trained personnel. Machine learning techniques can help to overcome these challenges by predicting and classifying malaria risk using clinical information. In this research paper, we propose a malaria risk prediction model using machine learning techniques based on clinical information. Our study utilizes a data set of patient records from a malaria endemic area, including demographic information, clinical symptoms, laboratory test results, and treatment history. We used machine learning classification models like logistic regression, decision tree classifiers, gaussianNB, random forests, and extratree classifiers, to build and evaluate prediction models. We used feature selection approaches to determine the most useful characteristics for malaria risk prediction. The proposed machine learning-based approach has several potential applications in clinical practice. For example, the approach can be used to identify high-risk individuals and allocate resources for early detection and treatment. The approach can also support public health officials in developing targeted intervention strategies to reduce malaria transmission. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning techniques in malaria risk prediction using clinical information. The proposed approach can potentially improve early detection and treatment of malaria, ultimately reducing the burden of the disease.
Treatment Efficacy and Safety of Intravitreal Aflibercept in Early Neovascular Glaucoma
Authors: Chen Lili , Zheng Bo , Sang Kexin , Zhang Ting , Wu Huiqin
Published: May 2023

Background
This study aimed to assess the treatment efficacy and safety of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) in stage I and II neovascular glaucoma (NVG).
Methods
In this retrospective study, the clinical data of 57 patients (57 eyes) with stage I and II NVG secondary to PDR treated in our hospital from March 2018 to March 2021 were assessed. The treatment group was administered IVA with PRP, while control patients received PRP only. With a follow-up of 2 years, the BCVA, IOP, neovascularization and disease progression were analyzed.
Results
The BCVA and IOP were ameliorated in the treatment group compared with the control group during the 2-year follow-up period (P < 0.05). After the 2-year follow-up, the BCVA and IOP were better than pre-treatment level in the treatment group, while they were seriously in control group, but they all have no significant differences compared with pre-treatment levels (P > 0.05). The final effective rates of IOP control were 53.33% and 40.74% in the treatment and control groups (X = 0.904, P = 0.342); after the 2-year follow-up, 60% of the iris and angle neovascularization in the treatment group regressed, and 29.63% in the control group regressed (X = 4.053, P = 0.044).
Conclusions
IVA is safe and effective for the treatment of stage I and II NVG, effectively inhibiting the activity of iris neovascularization, delaying disease progression and preserving vision.
Seismic hazards along the Longmen Shan fault: Insights from stress transfer between major earthquakes and regional b value
Authors: YUNQIANG SUN , WEICHENG GONG , Oringe WEI , WEN JIANG
Published: May 2023

There are two seismic gaps (Dayi seismic gap and Tianquan-Kangding seismic gap) on the Longmen Shan fault (LMSF), despite the successively occurrence of the 2008 Mw7.9 Wenchuan and 2013 Mw6.6 Lushan earthquakes. To analyze the effects of the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes on the LMSF (especially on seismic gaps along the LMSF) and regional seismic hazards, we calculate Coulomb stress changes caused by the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes based on a three-dimensional viscoelastic finite element model. We also calculate the spatial distribution of regional b value based on the instrumental seismic catalog before Wenchuan earthquake, and infer the regional background stress level according to the inverse correlation between b value and stress level. The results show that regional earthquakes (including the 2008 Mw7.9 Wenchuan earthquake, 2013 Mw6.6 Lushan earthquake, 2014 Mw6.1 Kangding earthquake, 2017 Mw6.5 Jiuzhaigou earthquake and 2022 Mw6.6 Luding earthquake) occurred in regions with low b value. Meanwhile, subsequent earthquakes occurred in regions where Coulomb stress changes caused by the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes are positive. This suggests that regions with both low b value and positive Coulomb stress changes may pose higher seismic hazards. There are five regions (southern Xianshuihe fault, southernmost segment of LMSF, Dongkunlun fault, northern Xiaojinhe fault, and Hanan-Qingshanwan fault) with both high Coulomb stress changes caused by the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes and low b value, which may indicate high-stress accumulation and high seismic hazard in the future. The results also show that Coulomb stress changes caused by the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes increased significantly in the Dayi seismic gap (+ 0.214 ~ + 2.606 MPa), and Tianquan-Kangding seismic gap (+ 0.016 ~ + 0.205 MPa), while the result of high b value for the Dayi seismic gap and the northern-central segment of Tianquan-Kangding seismic gap indicates less background stress accumulation. With tectonic loading continues, seismic hazards on both seismic gaps should cause our attention.
High-quality superconducting α-Ta film sputtered on heated silicon substrate
Authors: Wu Yanfu , Ding Zengqian , Xiong Kanglin , Feng Jiagui
Published: May 2023

Intrigued by the discovery of the long lifetime in the α-Ta/Al2O3-based Transmon qubit, researchers recently found α-Ta film is a promising platform for fabricating multi-qubits with long coherence time. To meet the requirements for integrating superconducting quantum circuits, the ideal method is to grow α-Ta film on silicon substrate compatible with industrial manufacturing. Here we report the α-Ta film sputter-grown on Si (100) with low-loss superconducting TiNx buffer layer. The pure-phase α-Ta film with a large growth temperature window has good crystalline character. The critical temperature (Tc) and residual resistance ration (RRR) in the α-Ta film grown at 500 oC are higher than that in the α-Ta film grown at room temperature. These results provide crucial experimental clues towards understanding the connection between the superconductivity and the materials' properties in the α-Ta film, and open a new route for producing high-quality α-Ta film on silicon substrate for future industrial superconducting quantum computer.
Patch Area and Uniform Sampling on the Surface of Any Ellipsoid
Authors: Marples Callum Robert , Williams Philip Michael
Published: May 2023

Algorithms for generating uniform random points on a triaxial ellipsoid are non-trivial to verify because of the non-analytical form of the surface area. In this paper, a formula for the surface area of an ellipsoidal patch is derived in the form of a one-dimensional numerical integration problem, where the integrand is expressed using elliptic integrals. In addition, analytical formulae were obtained for the special case of a spheroid. The triaxial ellipsoid formula was used to calculate patch areas to investigate a set of surface sampling algorithms. Particular attention was paid to the efficiency of these methods. The results of this investigation show that the most efficient algorithm depends on the required coordinate system. For Cartesian coordinates, the gradient rejection sampling algorithm of Chen and Glotzer is best suited to this task, when paired with Marsaglia's method for generating points on a unit sphere. For outputs in polar coordinates, it was found that a surface area rejection sampler is preferable.