bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Gold Nanoparticles Conjugated with Albumin on Prostate and Breast Cancer Cell Lines: Insights into Cytotoxicity, Cellular Uptake, Migration, and Adhesion Potential
Authors: Mahmoud Nouf N , Salman Talah M. , Al-Dabash Sabaa , Abdullah Maha , Abu-Dahab Rana
Published: December 2023

Breast and prostate cancers are prevalent in women and men, respectively. The process of metastasis plays a crucial role in cancer advancement. Herein, two distinct forms of gold nanoparticles (GNP) were prepared and modified with bovine serum albumin (BSA) to create gold nanorods-BSA (GNR-BSA) and gold nanospheres-BSA (GNS-BSA). Various aspects of biological interactions of these nanoparticles with two prostate cancer cell lines (DU-145 and PC-3) and a breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) have been investigated. The cell viability of DU-145 and PC-3 ranged from 17% to 95% across concentrations of 0.55 to 34.5 µg/mL, and for MDA-MB-231 ranged from 17% to 85%. GNS-BSA exhibited no significant cytotoxicity against the cancer cell lines. Regarding cellular uptake, GNR-BSA demonstrated uptake rates of 10%, 14%, and 5% for DU-145, PC-3, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, respectively, while GNS-BSA showed uptake of less than 0.4% for all the cell lines investigated. Notably, GNR-BSA significantly impeded the cellular migration of DU-145 and PC-3 cells over 48 hr and MDA-MB-231 cells over 24 hr compared to controls. GNS-BSA inhibited cell migration over 48 hours for DU-145 and over 24 hours for PC-3 and MDA-MB-231. Adhesion assay showed a moderate reduction of PC-3 adhesion ability (~ 20%) by GNS-BSA, while a minimum effect was observed on DU-145 (~5%). GNR-BSA have minimally affected the adhesion ability of both PC-3 (~8%), and DU-145 (~13%) and no adhesion ability reduction was observed on MDA-MB-231 by both GNP-BSA. This study suggests that GNP-BSA could be promising potential agents for combating cancer and inhibiting cellular invasion, and they could serve as promising platforms for drug delivery.
Methamphetamine enhancement of HIV-1 gp120-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and resultant proinflammatory responses in rat microglial cultures
Authors: Dutta Debashis , Liu Jianuo , Xu Enquan , Xiong Huangui
Published: December 2023

Background
Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1)-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remain prevalent in HIV-1-infected individuals despite the evident success of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). The mechanisms under HAND prevalence in the cART era remain perplexing. Ample evidence indicates that HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein protein 120 (gp120), a potent neurotoxin, plays a pivotal role in the HAND pathogenesis. Methamphetamine (Meth) abuse exacerbates HAND. How Meth exacerbates HAND is not fully understood. This study was to test the hypothesis that Meth exacerbates HAND by enhancing gp120-mediated proinflammatory responses in the brain, worsening the pathogenesis of HAND.
Methods
Experiments were carried out on primary microglial cultures prepared from neonatal SD rats. The purity of microglia was determined by staining with anti-CD11b. Meth and gp120 were applied to microglial cultures. Microglial activation was revealed by immunostaining and Iba-1 expression. The protein expression levels of Pro-IL-1β, Il-1β, Iba-1, iNOS, NLRP3, GSDMD and GSDMD-N were detected by western blotting analyses. The levels of proinflammatory cytokine and NO production in the microglia culture supernatants were assayed by ELISA and Griess reagent systems, respectively. NLRP3 activation was uncovered by fluorescent microscopy images displaying NLRP3 puncta labeled by anti-NLRP3 antibody. NLRP3 co-localization with caspase-1 was labeled with antibodies. One-way ANOVA with post hoc Tukey’s multiple comparison tests was employed for statistical analyses.
Results
Meth enhanced gp120-induced microglia activation revealed by immunostaining and Iba-1 expression, and potentiated gp120-mediated NLRP3 expression, IL-1β processing and release assayed by immunoblot and ELISA. Meth also augmented the co-localization of NLRP3 and caspase-1, increased the numbers of NLRP3 puncta and ROS production, elevated levels of iNOS expression and NO production, and enhanced levels of cleaved gasderminD (GSDMD-N, an executor of pyroptosis) in gp120-primed microglia. The Meth-associated effects were attenuated or blocked by MCC950, an NLRP3 inhibitor, or Mito-TEMPO, a mitochondrial superoxide scavenger, indicating the involvement of mitochondria in Meth enhancement of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in gp120-primed microglia.
Conclusions
These results suggest that Meth enhanced gp120-associated microglial NLRP3 activation and resultant proinflammatory responses via mitochondria-dependent signaling.
Face and content validity of the EMPOWER-UP questionnaire: a generic measure of empowerment in relational decision-making and problem-solving
Authors: Marqvorsen Emilie Haarslev Schröder , Lund Line , Biener Sigrid Normann , Due-Christensen Mette , Husted Gitte R. , Jørgensen Rikke , Mathiesen Anne Sophie , Olesen Mette Linnet , Petersen Morten Aagaard , Pouwer François , Rasmussen Bodil , Rothmann Mette Juel , Thomsen Thordis , Winkley Kirsty , Zoffmann Vibeke
Published: December 2023

Background
Decision-making and problem-solving processes are powerful activities occurring daily across all healthcare settings. Their empowering potential is seldom fully exploited, and they may even be perceived as disempowering. We developed the EMPOWER-UP questionnaire to enable assessment of healthcare users’ perception of empowerment across health conditions, healthcare settings, and healthcare providers’ professional backgrounds. This article reports the initial development of EMPOWER-UP, including face and content validation.
Methods
Four grounded theories explaining barriers and enablers to empowerment in relational decision-making and problem-solving were reviewed to generate a preliminary item pool, which was subsequently reduced using constant comparison. Preliminary items were evaluated for face and content validity using an expert panel of seven researchers and cognitive interviews in Danish and English with 29 adults diagnosed with diabetes, cancer, or schizophrenia.
Results
A preliminary pool of 139 items was reduced to 46. Independent feedback from expert panel members resulted in further item reduction and modifications supporting content validity and strengthening the potential for generic use. Forty-one preliminary items were evaluated through 29 cognitive interviews, resulting in a 36-item draft questionnaire deemed to have good face and content validity and generic potential.
Conclusions
Face and content validation using an expert panel and cognitive interviews resulted in a 36-item draft questionnaire with a potential for evaluating empowerment in user-provider interactions regardless of health conditions, healthcare settings, and healthcare providers’ professional backgrounds.
Effects of a near ideal amino acid balance diet on lysine mammary utilization, whole body protein turnover and muscle protein breakdown on lactating sows
Authors: Zhang Sai , Marini Juan C. , Mavangira Vengai , Claude Andrew , Moore Julie , Mohammad Mahmoud A. , Trottier Nathalie
Published: December 2023

Background The study objective was to test the hypothesis that low crude protein (CP) diet with crystalline amino acids (CAA) supplementation to meet a near ideal AA (NIAA) profile improves Lys utilization efficiency for milk and reduces protein turnover and muscle protein breakdown. Eighteen lactating multiparous Yorkshire sows were allotted to 1 of 2 isocaloric diets (10.80 MJ/kg net energy): control (CON; 19.24% CP) and reduced CP with a NIAA or “optimal” AA profile (OPT; 14.00% CP). Sow body weight and backfat were recorded on day 1 and 21 of lactation and piglets were weighed on days 1, 14, 18, and 21 of lactation. Between days 14 and 18, a subset of 9 sows (CON = 4, OPT = 5) was infused with a mixed solution of 3-[methyl-2H3] histidine (bolus injection) and [13C] bicarbonate (priming dose) 1 hour prior to a constant 2-hour [13C] bicarbonate infusion followed by a 6-hour primed constant [1-13C] lysine infusion. Serial blood and milk sampling were performed to determine plasma and milk Lys enrichment, Lys oxidation rate, whole body protein turnover, and muscle protein breakdown.Results Over the 21-day lactation period, compared to CON, sows fed OPT had greater litter growth rate (P < 0.05). Compared to CON, sows fed OPT had greater Lys mammary utilization efficiency (P < 0.05), Lys mammary flux (P < 0.01) and whole-body protein turnover efficiency (P < 0.05). Compared to CON, sows fed OPT tended to have lower whole body protein breakdown rate (P = 0.069). Muscle protein breakdown rate did not differ between OPT and CON (P = 0.197).Conclusion Feeding a diet formulated to meet a NIAA balance (i.e., OPT diet) increased Lys mammary utilization efficiency and reduced whole-body protein turnover and protein breakdown. Sows fed a OPT diet had greater protein turnover efficiency indicating greater AA utilization efficiency.
Sexually dimorphic characteristics of dopamine D1 receptor-expressing neurons within the shell of the nucleus accumbens of adolescent mice
Authors: Aziz Heather C , Mangieri Regina A
Published: December 2023

Background: Adolescence, a developmental stage, is characterized by psychosocial and biological changes. The nucleus accumbens (NAc), a striatal brain region composed of the core (NAcC) and shell (NAcSh), has been linked to risk-taking behavior and implicated in reward seeking and evaluation. Most neurons in the NAc are medium spiny neurons (MSNs) that express dopamine D1 receptors (D1R+) and/or dopamine D2 receptors (D2R+). Changes in dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems occur during adolescence and converge in the NAc. While there are previous investigations into sex differences in membrane excitability and synaptic glutamate transmission in both subdivisions of the NAc, to our knowledge, none have specified NAcSh D1R+MSNs from mice during mid-adolescence.
Methods: Sagittal brain slices containing the NAc were prepared from B6.Cg-Tg(Drd1a-tdTomato)6Calak/J mice of both sexes from postnatal days 35-47. Stained smears were made from vaginal samples from female mice to identify the stage of Estrous at death. Whole-cell electrophysiology recordings were collected from NAcSh D1R+MSNs in the form of membrane-voltage responses to current injections and spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs).
Results: The action potential duration was longer in males than infemales. Additionally, the frequency of sEPSCs was higher in females, and the mean event amplitude was smaller than that in males. We found no evidence of the observed sex differences being driven by the stage of the Estrous cycle and no physiological parameter significantly varied with respect to the Estrous cycle.
Conclusions: Taken together, our results indicate that NAcSh D1R+MSNs exhibit sex differences during mid-adolescence that are independent of the stage of Estrous, in both AP waveform and glutamate transmission, possibly due to changes in voltage-gated potassium channels and α-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) glutamate receptors, respectively.
Preparation of sulfonated cross-linked films for proton exchange membranes (PEMs) through a curing process
Authors: jang suk-yong , Lee Ji-Su , Oh Seung-Gi , Han Sien-Ho
Published: December 2023

Raw-poly(n-butyl acrylate (BA)-sodium styrene sulfonate (SS)-neopentyl glycol diacrylate (NPGDA)) (raw-PBSN) films were prepared through a curing process from various BA/SS/NPGDA mixtures (BSN mixture). The sulfonation of the raw-PBSN films was performed via a pretreatment process. As a result, light-brown sulfonated PBSN (SPBSN) films with a thickness of 80 ~ 95 µm were obtained. The ion exchange capacity (IEC) and proton conductivity (PC) of these specimens were improved with an increase in the content of SS within the SPBSN matrix. The SPBSN 25 wt%, SPBSN 30 wt% and SPBSN 35 wt% films containing corresponding SS content of 25 wt%, 30 wt% and 35 wt% had much higher IEC values compared to that of Nafion® 117. Specifically, the PC value of the SPBSN 35 wt% film was approximately 0.211 S/cm, nearly 22.6% higher than that of Nafion® 117 (0.172 S/cm) at a temperature of 80℃ and relative humidity (RH) of 100%. A fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis was used to verify the sulfonation of the raw-PBSN films. A transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis was conducted to investigate the micro-phase separated ionic cluster images of the SPBSN films.
Novel foam separation column with hollow octagonal prismoids with sieve tray for purification of recombinant β-glucosidase
Authors: Xue Jingli , Fang Sihan , Han Juan , Wu Jiacong , Wang Lei , Wang Yun
Published: December 2023

In order to intensify the foam drainage and improve the enrichment ratio of recombinant β-glucosidase, a new foam separation equipment with a hollow octagonal prismoid with sieve tray (HOPST) was designed to separate recombinant β-glucosidase (GLEGB) from fermentation broth. The structural parameters (number, spacing, sieve diameter) of the foam separation internals and experimental parameters (temperature, initial protein concentration, gas flow rate, liquid volume) were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the protein enrichment ratio was 2.46 ± 0.10, and the recovery rate of enzyme activity was 52.49 ± 2.50%. Based on the temperature sensitivity of elastin like polypeptide (ELP), the GLEGB foam solution was further purified with a purification ratio of 37.25 ± 0.60. The conformation results of purified GLEGB by CD, UV-vis and FT-IR showed that the structure of recombinant β-glucosidase was not changed during the purification process.
Household Factors and Prevalence of Squalor: Meta-analysis and Meta-regression
Authors: Norton Mike , Kellett Stephen , Huddy Vyv , Simmonds-Buckley Melanie
Published: December 2023

Background
Severe domestic squalor occurs when a person lives in a dwelling that is significantly unclean, disorganised and unhygienic. The limited previous research has primarily focused on the characteristics of those who live in squalor and the associated risk factors. Robust and reliable studies of squalor prevalence have not been conducted. This study sought to produce a reliable estimate of the point prevalence of squalor.
Methods
Using data from 13-years of the English Housing Survey, N = 85681 households were included in a prevalence meta-analysis. Squalor prevalence over time, subgroup analysis and logistic regression investigated the role played by household and community characteristics.
Results
The point prevalence of squalor was estimated to be 0.85% and squalor was seen to decrease significantly over time. Community deprivation, whether the home was owned/rented, income and the number of people in the home was associated with presence of squalor.
Conclusions
Squalor prevalence was higher than previous estimates and supports community care services in associated service planning. The results regarding household characteristics help to inform which households and individuals may be at a higher risk of living in squalid conditions.
An Extremely Rare Coronary Anomaly: Right Single Coronary Artery or Agenesis of Left Main Coronary Artery? A Classification Dilemma
Authors: Kök Zafer , Sökmen Erdoğan , Bingöl Bilge , Kalay Nihat
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Single coronary artery is an extremely rare anomaly where all the coronary circulation relies upon a single coronary trunk from either the right or the left sinus of Valsalve.The purpose of the present case report is to describe an extremely rare coronary artery anomaly which causes a classification dilemma.
Methods
A 67-year-old male patient admitted with acute coronary syndrome underwent a coronary angiography performed with Judkins technique to obtain standard angiographic views.
Results
We hereby present a very rare case of right single coronary artery anomaly diagnosed with invasive coronary angiography and computed tomography scan in a 67-year-old male patient with chest pain and share a classification dilemma.
Conclusion
We presented an extremely rare case of right SCA anomaly which causes classification dilemma. Furthermore, such coronary anomalies should be kept in mind before performing percutaneous coronary intervensions.
Transcriptomic Study of the Role of MeFtsZ2-1 in Pigment Accumulation in Cassava Leaves
Authors: Zang Yuwei , Wu Kunlin , Liu Liangwang , Ran Fangfang , Wang Changyi , Wu Shuwen , Wang Dayong , Guo Jianchun , Min Yi
Published: December 2023

MeFtsZ2-1 is a key gene for plant plastid division, but the mechanism by which MeFtsZ2-1 affects pigment accumulation in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) through plastids remains unclear. We found that MeFtsZ2-1 overexpression in cassava (OE) exhibited darker colors of leaves, with increased levels of anthocyanins and carotenoids. Further observation via Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed no apparent defects in chloroplast structure but an increase in the number of plastoglobule in OE leaves. RNA-seq results showed 1582 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in leaves of OE. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that these DEGs were enriched in pathways related to flavonoid, anthocyanin, and carotenoid biosynthesis. This study reveals the role of MeFtsZ2-1 in cassava pigment accumulation from a physiological and transcriptomic perspective, providing a theoretical basis for improving cassava quality.
Association of circulating biomarkers with illness severity measures differentiates myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and post-COVID-19 condition: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Domingo Joan Carles , Battistini Federica , Cordobilla Begoña , Zaragozá Maria Cleofé , Sanmartin-Sentañes Ramón , Alegre-Martin Jose , Cambras Trinitat , Castro-Marrero Jesus
Published: December 2023

Background
Accumulating evidence suggests that autonomic dysfunction and persistent systemic inflammation are common clinical features in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID. However, there is limited knowledge regarding their potential association with circulating biomarkers and illness severity status.
Methods
This prospective, cross-sectional, case-control cohort study aimed to distinguish between the two patient populations by using self-reported outcome measures and circulating biomarkers to assess endothelial function and systemic inflammation. Thirty-one individuals with ME/CFS, 23 individuals with long COVID, and 31 matched healthy subjects were included. Regression analysis was used to examine associations between self-reported outcome measures and circulating biomarkers in study participants. Classification across groups was based on principal component and discriminant analyses.
Results
Four ME/CFS patients (13%), 1 with long COVID (4%), and 1 healthy control (3%) presented postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) with the 10-min NASA lean test. Compared with healthy controls, ME/CFS and long COVID subjects showed higher levels of ET-1 (p < 0.05) and VCAM-1 (p < 0.001), and lower levels of nitrites (NOx assessed as NO2- + NO3-) (p < 0.01). ME/CFS patients also showed higher levels of serpin E1 (PAI-1) and E-selectin than did both long COVID and control subjects (p < 0.01 in all cases). Long COVID patients had lower TSP-1 levels than did ME/CFS patients and healthy controls (p < 0.001). As for inflammation biomarkers, both long COVID and ME/CFS subjects had higher levels of TNF-α than did healthy controls (p < 0.01 in both comparisons). Compared with controls, ME/CFS patients had higher levels of IL-1β (p < 0.001), IL-4 (p < 0.001), IL-6 (p < 0.01), IL-10 (p < 0.001), IP-10 (p < 0.05), and leptin (p < 0.001). Principal component analysis supported differentiation between groups based on self-reported outcome measures and endothelial and inflammatory biomarkers.
Conclusions
Our findings revealed that combining biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation with outcome measures differentiate ME/CFS and Long COVID using robust discriminant analysis of principal components. Further research is needed to provide a more comprehensive characterization of these underlying pathomechanisms, which could be promising targets for therapeutic and preventive strategies in these conditions.
Mouse auditory cortex sub-fields receive neuronal projections from MGB subdivisions independently
Authors: Wang Chi , Jiang Zhen-yu , Chai Jianyuan , Chen Hong-suo , Liu Li-xia , Dang Tong , Meng Xian-mei
Published: December 2023

Mouse auditory cortex is composed of six sub-fields: primary auditory field (AI), secondary auditory field (AII), anterior auditory field (AAF), insular auditory field (IAF), ultrasonic field (UF) and dorsoposterior field (DP). Previous studies have examined thalamo-cortical connections in the mice auditory system and learned that AI, AAF, and IAF receive inputs from the ventral division of the medial geniculate body (MGB). However, the functional and thalamo-cortical connections between nonprimary auditory cortex (AII, UF, and DP) is unclear. In this study, we examined the locations of neurons projecting to these three cortical sub-fields in the MGB, and addressed the question whether these cortical sub-fields receive inputs from different subsets of MGB neurons or common. To examine the distributions of projecting neurons in the MGB, retrograde tracers were injected into the AII, UF, DP, after identifying these areas by the method of Optical Imaging. Our results indicated that neuron cells which in ventral part of dorsal MGB (MGd) and that of ventral MGB (MGv) projecting to UF and AII with less overlap. And DP only received neuron projecting from MGd. Interestingly, these three cortical areas received input from distinct part of MGd and MGv in an independent manner. Based on our foundings these three auditory cortical sub-fields in mice may independently process auditory information.
Propensity to trust: comforting touch between trustworthy human and robot partners.
Authors: Valori Irene , Fan Yichen , Jung Merel , Fairhurst Merle
Published: December 2023

Touching a friend to comfort or be comforted is a common prosocial behaviour, firmly based in mutual trust. Emphasising the interactive nature of trust and touch, we suggest that vulnerability, reciprocity and individual differences shape trust and perceptions of touch. We further investigate whether these elements also apply to companion robots. Participants (n = 152) were exposed to four comics depicting human-human or human-robot exchanges. Across conditions, one character was sad, the other initiated touch to comfort them, and the touchee reciprocated the touch. Participants first rated trustworthiness of a certain character (human or robot in a vulnerable or comforting role), then evaluated the two touch phases (initiation and reciprocity) in terms of interaction realism, touch appropriateness and pleasantness, affective state (valence and arousal) attributed to the characters. Results support an interactive account of trust and touch, with humans being equally trustworthy when comforting or showing vulnerability, and reciprocity of touch buffering sadness. Although these phenomena seem unique to humans, propensity to trust technology reduces the gap between how humans and robots are perceived. Two distinct trust systems emerge: one for human interactions and another for social technologies, both necessitating trust as a fundamental prerequisite for meaningful physical contact.
Animal naming test stratifies the risk of falls and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Miwa Takao , Hanai Tatsunori , Hirata Sachiyo , Nishimura Kayoko , Unome Shinji , Nakahata Yuki , Imai Kenji , Shirakami Yohei , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Shimizu Masahito
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to determine the relationship between animal naming test (ANT), falls, and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis. Cognitive impairment and frailty were assessed using ANT and Karnofsky performance status (KPS), respectively. Factors stratifying the risk of previous falls and fall-related fractures within one year were assessed using a logistic regression model. Factors affecting patient performance in ANT were evaluated using multiple regression analysis. Of the 94 patients, 19% and 5% experienced falls and fall-related fractures, respectively. The performance in ANT was worse in patients who experienced falls (11 vs. 18; p < 0.001) and fall-related fractures (8 vs. 16; p < 0.001) than in those who did not. After adjustment, females, KPS, and ANT (odds ratio [OR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65–0.93; p = 0.005) were associated with falls, while ANT was significantly associated with fall-related fractures (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.35–0.88; p = 0.012). Age and education affected the performance in ANT, whereas the use of Oriental zodiacs did not. The ANT is useful for stratifying the risk of falls and fall-related fractures in patients with cirrhosis. The effects of age and education should be considered when applying ANT in the Japanese population.
DNA methylation profile of essential hypertension in a Xinjiang Kazak population in China
Authors: Jiang Hong , Yang Xinling , You Shuping , Liu Tao , Zhang Shi-Lei
Published: December 2023

Background The Kazak people have the highest rate of essential hypertension among all ethnic groups in the pasturing area of Nanshan in Xinjiang, China. This study is to identify DNA methylation profile of essential hypertension in a Xinjiang Kazak population, China. Methods The differentially methylated DNA sites were screened using gene chip technology, and analyzed by GO and KEGG. RT-PCR and Western blotting were used to measure mRNA and protein levels. Results There were significant methylation differences between patients with essential hypertension and control candidates at 427 sites. These sites were located on different chromosomes, mostly on Chromosomes 1 and 6. Differentially methylated genes were mainly involved in biological processes involving the biosynthesis and metabolism of protein, vascular development, cell adhesion, collagen binding, and aging. Chondroitin sulfate biosynthesis, and the insulin signaling, endocytosis, immune pathways, and other metabolic pathways were also identified. Compared with the control group, ECE-1 was significantly upregulated while eNOS was significantly downregulated in hypertension patients (P < 0. 05). Conclusion The DNA methylation profiles of Kazaks with essential hypertension are established. Our findings may provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of essential hypertension.
ALOX5, a novel diagnostic and prognostic marker associated with immune cells and ferroptosis in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Nannan , Zhu Yi , fei hu , An Mingyu , Yang Xia , Li Jun , Li Xuejun
Published: December 2023

Immune infiltration and ferroptosis play pivotal roles in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the investigation of immune cell-associated ferroptosis genes (ICRFGs) in the context of DKD remains insufficient. This study aims to identify ICRFGs relevant to DKD. In this study, two DKD datasets were utilized, and alongside ferroptosis-related genes were obtained from public database. We employed the CIBERSORT and WGCNA methods to identify immune-related differential genes. The common ICRFGs were derived through the Venn plot and function analysis was performed. We employed the random forest and LASSO techniques to further select hub ICRFGs. The diagnostic efficacy of hub ICRFGs was assessed using K-M survival analysis, ROC curve analysis, and clinical factors of DKD. Hub ICRFGs-related pathways and functions in DKD patients were elucidated via the GSEA algorithm and the Metascape database. Additionally, we validated the expression of hub ICRFGs in high glucose-induced HK-2 cells and other datasets. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified ALOX5 as a pivotal biomarker linked to immune-related ferroptosis. ALOX5 exhibited significant high expression in HK-2 cells exposed to high glucose and in other independent datasets. Clinical correlation and K-M survival analysis affirmed ALOX5 as the most crucial ICRFGs in DKD. Furthermore, ALOX5 demonstrated significant enrichment in ECM-receptor interaction, regulation of chemokine production, and regulation of inflammatory response. A positive correlation was observed between ALOX5 and M1 macrophage cells, γδ T cells, and monocytes. In conclusion, we identified ALOX5 as a dependable and prospective diagnostic marker associated with immunity and ferroptosis in DKD.
Combining habitat suitability with simulated movements for the predictive modelling of beaver distribution in Flanders
Authors: Huysentruyt Frank , Rutten Anneleen
Published: December 2023

In Flanders, beavers reappeared since 2000 and numbers have expanded rapidly over the last decade, challenging impact management. To help identify areas with increased vulnerability to beaver damage we developed a species distribution model (SDM) in which we combined a MaxEnt-based approach to estimate habitat suitability and potential future spread with simulated dispersions using the SiMRiv R-package. We constructed our model in 2020 based on 2019 distribution data of beavers in Flanders and used it to predict population distribution probability up to 2022. For validation of this combined model output, we compared the output per km² grid cell to the observed distribution of beavers in Flanders in 2020–2022. Our model predicted possible beaver occupancy in 4.361 out of 14,343 km² grid cells in Flanders. In 51.4% of these grid cells predicted probability of occupancy was accidental, in 29.3% it was low, in 13.0% medium and in 6.4% high. In 2020–2022 beavers were observed in 908 km² grid cells in Flanders. Comparison with the model output showed that the model performed well overall (AUC: 0.825–0.864); although the negative predictive power was much higher than positive predictive power since the model tends to overestimate actual occupancy over this three-year period. However, the accuracy rises with the projected level of occupancy probability. Although the overestimation fits the intended risk management purposes of the model, expanding it beyond the borders of Flanders and strengthening the backbone of the model with a more detailed population model could further improve the output and help improve the positive predictive power.
Transcription factor 3 enhances hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis by upregulating MMP11
Authors: Tian Hongpeng , Huang Cheng , Hou Huafang , Li Peidong , Zhou Yu , Wen Jing , Zhao Yu , Xiao Zhongxiang , Wu Tianhao , Zhou Tong , Zhang Guangjun , Li Shengjie
Published: December 2023

Transcription factor 3 (TCF3) has a vital role in tumor occurrence and progression. However, the specific functions and underlying mechanisms of dysregulated TCF3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not thoroughly characterized. Thus, we explored the levels and roles of TCF3 in HCC samples. In addition, TCF3 knockdown and overexpression models were developed via lentiviral vectors in HCC cells. Transwell as well as in vivo metastasis experiments were performed to measure the effects of TCF3 on HCC cell metastasis. Then, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, serial deletion, western blotting, site-directed mutagenesis, chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were done to determine the involved pathomechanisms. TCF3 levels were markedly elevated in HCC samples, and correlated with poor prognosis. Besides, overexpressed TCF3 promoted HCC cell invasion as well as migration, while TCF3 knockdown repressed HCC cell growth. In addition, TCF3 mediated MMP11 expressions. MMP11 knockdown repressed TCF3-associated HCC cell migration and invasion while its overexpression attenuated the TCF3 knockdown-mediated repression of HCC growth. In human-derived HCC samples, TCF3 were positively correlated with MMP11 in expression level. Overall, these findings highlighted that TCF3 could be regarded as a prognostic biomarker and HCC metastasis regulator.
Applying LASSO logistic regression for prediction of biliary complications after ex-vivo liver resection and autotransplantation in end-stage hepatic alveolar echinococcosis
Authors: Lin Xin , Shao Yingmei , Zhang Ruiqing , Aji Tuerganaili
Published: December 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the relevant risk factors for biliary complications (BC) in patients with end-stage hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) following ex-vivo liver resection and autotransplantation (ELRA) and to establish and visualize a nomogram based on LASSO logistic regression.
Methods: From January 2010 to May 2022, clinical data were collected from patients diagnosed with end-stage hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) who underwent ELRA treatment at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. LASSO logistic regression analysis was performed using R software version 4.2.2. In the variable selection stage, we applied the lasso regression to select the most valuable variables as candidates for further logistic regression analysis. Afterward, we utilized the variables obtained from the previous stage to construct a binary logistic regression analysis. The aim of this analysis was to elucidate the relationship between perioperative clinical data and postoperative biliary complications. Bootstrapping resampling was used to validate the resulting nomogram, and decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the model.
Results:The study included a total of 118 patients with end-stage HAE after screening. Among them, 48 patients (40.68%) belonged to the biliary complication group and 70 patients (59.32%) belonged to the non-biliary complication group. Through the above analysis, it was found that age (OR=1.04, 95%CI, 1.0-1.09), biliary dilatation (OR=6.71, 95%CI, 2.62-17.19), and portal hypertension (OR=3.62, 95%CI, 1.22-10.76) were independent risk factors for BC after ELRA, while regular liver resection (OR=0.13, 95%CI, 0.02-0.75) was a protective factor. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was 0.8188 (95%CI: 0.7417-0.8958) and the calibration curve for this prediction model were satisfactory. Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) showed that within the 9%-85% range, the nomogram had a greater net benefit than uniform intervention for the entire population.
Conclusion: Age, biliary dilatation and portal hypertension are independent risk factors for biliary complications after ELRA. Postoperative biliary complications can be reduced while preserving liver volume by intraoperative regular liver resection. Appropriate interventions based on the nomogram should be used for patients at high risk of postoperative biliary complications.
Vaccination strategies to identify and reach zero-dose and under- immunized children in crisis-affected states in Sudan: A qualitative study
Authors: Sabahelzain Majdi M. , Almaleeh Alaa , Abdelmagid Nada , Abdalla Omayma , Nor Barni , Mounier-Jack Sandra , Singh Neha S.
Published: December 2023

Background
In 2021, 18.2 million "zero-dose" children did not receive any DTP-containing vaccine. In 99 low-and middle-income countries, 20% of zero-dose children are conflict-affected. There is insufficient evidence on vaccination interventions to identify and reach zero-dose children in these settings. This study aimed to map and assess current vaccination strategies to identify and reach zero-dose and under-vaccinated children the crisis-affected states of South Kordofan, South Darfur and the Blue Nile in Sudan.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional qualitative study guided by the IRMA model framework (Identify-Reach-Monitor-Measure-Advocate), developed by Gavi. We conducted 20 individual semi-structured interviews during November and December 2022. We interviewed governmental and non-governmental vaccination stakeholders at federal, state and locality levels. We conducted a thematic analysis of interview transcripts.
Results
Zero-dose and under-immunized children in the study sites are concentrated in opposition-controlled areas, nomadic communities, and remote rural areas. Zero-dose and under-immunized children in accessible areas are identified through routine vaccination strategies and surveillance reports. Various strategies are used in inaccessible areas. This includes tasking local institutions and individuals trusted by communities to identify and reach children, and infrequent integration and co-delivery of routine vaccines with other health interventions such as COVID-19 vaccination and insecticidal net distribution. There is a lack of specific population analysis and guidance from ministries of health to measure and monitor zero-dose and under-immunized children. Advocacy is conflated with mobilization and broadly characterized as ad-hoc activities connected to immunization campaigns only
Conclusions
We conclude that there is a need for further research and testing and adapting innovative and tailored interventions in these settings, particularly in the areas of integrated vaccination delivery, community participation in vaccination, improved data generation and use and advocacy.
Down-regulated miR-10a protects against spinal cord injury by up-regulating SIRT1
Authors: Song Chao , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2023

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a sensory and motor deficit that greatly reduces patients’ standard of living. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential modulators of gene expression and are associated with various pathological processes, including SCI. This investigation aimed to elucidate miR-10a activity in SCI and its potential interaction with SIRT1, a known inflammation and cell survivalregulator.
Methods:
Lentiviral vectors were used to knock down miR-10a in SCI rats. The locomotion scale called Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan was utilized to assess SCI rats' hindlimbs' functional recovery. PC12 cells were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish an in-vitro SCI model. qRT-PCR was carried out to elucidate miR-10a levels in the spinal cord tissues and PC12 cells. The interaction of miR-10a with SIRT1 was elucidated via luciferase reporter analysis. Immunohistochemistry and western blot assessed SIRT1 protein expression. Cell viability was elucidated via MTT analysis, and an ELISA assay was carried out to investigate inflammatory factors.
Results: This investigation indicated upregulated miR-10a and reduced SIRT1 expression in the SCI rats’ tissues.miR-10a knockdown in SCI rats improved motor function recovery, increased neuronal survival, and reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed that miR-10adirectly targets SIRT1. In PC12 cells, downregulation of miR-10a increased SIRT1 expression, enhanced cell viability, and reduced inflammatory factor levels afterLPS stimulation. Conversely, SIRT1 knockdown inhibited the protective effects of downregulated miR-10a on cell viability and inflammatory responses.
Conclusions: The resultssuggest that miR-10a downregulation protects against SCI by upregulating SIRT1 expression, improving functional recovery, and reducing inflammation. Targeting the miR-10a/SIRT1 axis is a promising strategy for SCItreatment.
Development and validation of a metabolic gene signature for predicting the overall survival of patients in lung adenocarcinoma with lymph node metastasis
Authors: He Jinqi , Tang Haidong , Xia Fan , Liu Yanhua , Zhang Wenjing Zhang , Li Faxiang
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Metabolism reprogramming plays an essential role in cancers. The current study explored the prognostic potential of metabolic genes for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) with metastasis.
Methods
The RNA-seq data and clinical data for LUAD patients were retrieved from public databases. LASSO analysis was utilized to construct a multigene signature in the TCGA-LUAD cohort. LUAD patients from the GSE72094, GSE30219, GSE31210 dataset were used for external validation. The effect of altered GNPNAT1 expression on cell migration, invasion and EMT were explored in vitro.
Results
Our results showed that a total of 40 differentially expressed metabolic genes (DEMGs) were identified to be involved in the occurrence and lymph node metastasis of LUAD. Univariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that 10 DEMGs were correlated with overall survival (OS) of LUAD patients. LASSO regression analysis indicated that the prognostic signature, including ALDOA, MTHFD1L, LDHA, GNPNAT1, POLR3G, GPD1L, PGS1, was developed in the TCGA-LUAD cohort. The prognostic value of this signature was successfully validated in the GSE72094, GSE31210, GSE30219 dataset. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed this signature's predictive capacity. Functional analysis revealed that several signaling pathways were enriched in the high-risk group. Furthermore, the calibration curve of the prognostic nomogram demonstrated good agreement between the predicted and observed survival rates for each of OS. Further analysis revealed that this signature could be an independent predictor for OS in patients with LUAD. Finally, we successfully detected expression level of 7 hub MGs at the transcription level and firstly found that GNPNAT1 might played an important role on LUAD cells migration, invasion, and EMT.
Conclusion
A novel metabolic gene signature can be used for prognostic prediction in LUAD metastasis. Targeting metabolism may be a therapeutic alternative for LUAD metastasis.
An AMPK-dependent hypoxia-responsive subnucleus of the nucleus tractus solitarius coordinates the hypoxic ventilatory response and protects against apneoa in mice
Authors: MacMillan Sandy , Burns David P. , O'Halloran Ken D. , Evans A. Mark
Published: December 2023

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) suggests that the hypoxic ventilatory response is facilitated by the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), not at the carotid bodies, but within a subnucleus (Bregma − 7.5 to -7.1mm) of the nucleus tractus solitarius that exhibits rightsided bilateral asymmetry. Here, we map this subnucleus using cFos expression as a surrogate for neuronal activation and mice in which the genes encoding the AMPK-α1 (Prkaa1) and AMPKα2 (Prkaa2) catalytic subunits were deleted in catecholaminergic cells by Cre expression via the tyrosine hydroxylase promoter. Comparative analysis of brainstem sections, relative to controls, revealed that AMPKα1/α2 deletion inhibited, with rightsided bilateral asymmetry, cFos expression in and thus activation of a neuronal cluster that partially spanned three interconnected anatomical nuclei adjacent to the area postrema: SolDL (Bregma − 7.44mm to -7.48mm), SolDM (Bregma − 7.44mm to --7.48mm) and SubP (Bregma − 7.48mm to -7.56mm). This approximates the volume identified by fMRI. Moreover, these nuclei are known to be in receipt of carotid body afferent inputs, and catecholaminergic neurons of SubP and SolDL innervate aspects of the ventrolateral medulla responsible for respiratory rhythmogenesis. Accordingly, AMPKα1/α2 deletion attenuated hypoxiaevoked increases in minute ventilation, blocked active expiration, decreased sigh frequency and increased apnoea frequency. The metabolic status of these AMPKα1/α2 knockouts and the brainstem and spinal cord catecholamine levels were equivalent to controls. We conclude, that within the brainstem an AMPK-dependent, hypoxia-responsive subnucleus partially spans SubP, SolDM and SolDL, namely SubSolHΙe, and is critical to coordination of active expiration, the hypoxic ventilatory response and defence against apnoea.
The Ornamental white marble use and reuse at the Ottoman palaces of Algiers’ Regency: New knowledge to a provenance study
Authors: Bibimoune Aicha , Chergui Samia , Hamza Mohamed Chérif , Prochaska Walter
Published: December 2023

This multi-disciplinary study examines from a historical and technical approach the supply of ornamental white marble in Ottoman Algiers between the 17th and 19th centuries. Our systematic analysis of Ottoman Regency administration archives, in particular the correspondence between the provincial chiefs of Algiers and Cherchell dating from 1824 to 1825AD, reveals two completely different supply routes for white ornamental marble to Algiers' building sites: the first identifies Genoa as the unique source of imports, while the second confirms the use of the remains from the ancient Roman city of Cherchell/Caesarea. In order to verify these provenances of ornamental white marble, petrographic and geochemical analyses were carried out on fifteen (15) samples of white marble from the decorative elements of the Algiers Citadel: a palatial complex whose construction and subsequent completion correspond to the same period as these exchanges of official correspondence. Experimental results confirm the Italian provenance of some samples, particularly from Carrara, while others appear to be of local origin from Filfila.
Prominent Bioactive Profile of 3d- Transition Metal Doped Schiff’s Base Complexes
Authors: Gajbhiye Rahul
Published: December 2023

A mixed ligand complex were prepared from the Schiff’s base ligand p-Methoxy Isonitroso Acetophenone (p-MINAP) as a primary ligand which is prepared by the action of n-amyl nitrite with p- Methoxy Acetophenone and 1, 10 – Phenanthroline (1, 10-Phen) as a secondary ligand. The Schiff base ligand and its mixed ligand chelate were characterized based on its elemental analysis; IR, 1H NMR, UV-visible spectra, molar conductance and magnetic moment also have been studied.
The mixed ligand complex were found to have the formula [M (p-MINAP)(1, 10-Phen)] and the geometrical structure of the complex were octahedral geometry. The synthesized Schiff base ligand (p-MINAP), 1, 10-Phenanthroline ligand (1, 10-Phen) and their mixed ligand complex were also investigated for their antibacterial and antifungal activity against bacterial species (gram positive bacteria) and (gram negative bacteria) and fungi. The anticancer activities of the newly synthesized compound have been tested against breast (MFC7) and colon (HCT-116) cell lines. The result showed high activity for synthesized compound.
Influence of abiotic factors on diapause termination and temperature requirements for postdiapause development in the European red mite, Panonychus ulmi (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Martínez-Villar Elena , López-Manzanares Beatriz , Legarrea Saioa , Pérez-Moreno Ignacio , Marco-Mancebón Vicente S.
Published: December 2023

The European red mite Panonychus ulmi (Koch) is widely distributed and it can severely affect pome fruit crops, particularly apple. Pest outbreaks are related to an overuse of non-selective pesticide treatments that lead to the development of resistance and the absence of natural enemies in the orchard. A key aspect to optimize the use of pesticide treatments in the context of IPM is to increase the knowledge on the biology and ecology of the pest to better predict population dynamics and outbreaks. For the European red mite, knowledge on the conditions that lead to diapause breaking by overwintering eggs is essential to model population dynamics. To increase this knowledge, winter eggs were collected during field surveys in northen Spain during three seasons and egg hatching was monitored under controlled temperature and photoperiod conditions in the laboratory. The “number of days exposed to cold temperatures” was the most significant factor that positively affected hatching of overwintering eggs. The time required for 50% of the egg population to hatch (T50%) was also negatively modulated by the duration of exposure to cold temperature. The temperature threshold for postdiapause eggs development collected from the field was estimated between 5 and 6 ºC in 2005 and 2007, respectively. Moreover, the degree-days required for post diapause development were estimated between 255 and 264, depending on the year of collection. Collectively, we provide additional information on the diapause termination and postdiapause development of the European red mite that may effectively contribute to optimize pest population models.