bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicological aspects of genus Wendlandia: an overview
Authors: Hossain Md Jamal , Maliha Fahamida , Hawlader Md Bappy , Farzana Mamtaz , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: December 2023

The genus Wendlandia includes around 70 species and is native to southeast Asia, northeast Africa, China, Australia, and Turkey. Mnay plant species of this genus have ethnomedicinal properties, which are used to deal various health complications, including dysentery, severe fever, cough, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, constipation, and inflammation. This review sought to summarize details on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical composition, safety aspects, and toxicology of Wendlandia species. Additionally, it covered the nomenclature, distribution, taxonomy, and botanical characteristics of this genus. Several electronic databases were used to retrieve the information, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and Springer Link. The Plant List (www.theplantlist.org) was used for taxonomical authentications. SciFinder and PubChem were utilized for the verification of chemical structures and IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) name of the compounds. Numerous examinations of chemical constituents of the Wendlandia genus have identified approximately 60 essential plant compounds, such as iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, carotenoids, and triterpenes. Various research studies have showcased the therapeutic potential of Wendlandia species, highlighting their abilities in treating diabetes, combating oxidation, reducing inflammation, fighting microbes, lowering blood pressure, and potentially hindering cancer growth. The significance of Wendlandia in traditional medicine systems and its role as a valuable origin of impactful natural compounds are evident. This review provided scientific basis for future endeavors, including chemical investigations into already studied species and other less studied species of Wendlandia for finding future lead compounds.
J. Bangladesh Acad. Sci. 47(2); 139-154: December 2023
Orta ve Alt Gelir Grubu Ailelerde Yatırım Deneyimleri: Kripto Paralar ve Maddi Kayıplar
Authors: YILMAZ İsa , ACAR Burak , YAMAN Ömer Miraç
Published: December 2023

Bu çalışma, orta ve alt gelir gruplarından bireylerin kripto para yatırımına yönlendiren motivasyonları ve bu motivasyonların ortaya çıkan sosyal ve ekonomik zorluklarla ilişkisini incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Buradan yola çıkarak, bu çalışmanın ana araştırma cümlesi kripto para yatırımının içinde bulunulan maddi zorlukları aşmada orta-alt sosyoekonomik gelire sahip aile fertleri açısından giderek daha fazla başvurulan bir yöntem olduğu ve bu yöntemin doğurduğu sonucun maddi kayıpları daha da derinleştirdiği ve aile içi sorunları arttırdığı yönündedir. Araştırma, fenomenolojik bir desen ve nitel araştırma yaklaşımını kullanarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Katılımcılarla yapılan yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler sonucunda elde edilen veriler analiz edilmiştir. Bulgular, orta-alt gelire sahip bireylerin kripto para yatırımına farklı motivasyonlarla girdiğini ve bu yatırımların maddi sıkıntıları aşma amacı taşıdığını göstermektedir. Ancak, finansal okuryazarlık eksikliği, düzensiz piyasa koşulları ve spekülasyon nedeniyle beklenen kazançların elde edilememesi, bu yatırımcıların kayıplarını artırmıştır. Ayrıca, bu kayıpları telafi etmek için borçlanma ve kredi alma eğilimi göstermişlerdir. Araştırma, finansal okuryazarlık düzeyinin artırılmasının önemini vurgularken, düzenleyici önlemler ve ekonomik yardım seçeneklerinin geliştirilmesi gerektiğini öne sürmektedir.
Preliminary Pilot Study for the Incidence of Association between PCO and Endometrial Hyperplasia / Endometrial Cancer in KHUH Patient in 2018
Authors: M Samy Ismael , Hamdan Reem , Shujaie Aysha , AlJawder Aysha , Mulla Manayer , AlFudhala Maryam , AlHasan Zain , Fadhel Elias , Torsten Uwe , Atkin Stephen
Published: December 2023

Introduction: PCOS syndrome is a common endocrine disease in females. Previous studies have stated that PCOS is associated with an increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of using the HOPE system in KHUH for exploring the association between PCOS and Endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study to find the incidence of association between PCOS and Endometrial cancer cases following up in King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) and Bahrain Oncology Center (BOC) in 2018. Results: A total of 241 women included in our study. A total of 165 women were diagnosed with PCOS in 2018, and a total of 55 women that underwent endometrial sampling, and 21 women diagnosed with endometrial cancer. No significant relationship between PCOS and EH and EC. High BMI was found significant in all sample groups. Conclusion: Our study showed that there is a link between PCOS and EC but the percentages are very low. A large prospective study with a control group would provide further information regarding the relationship between PCOS and EC.
Pattern of Ocular B-Mode Sonographic Findings in Diabetic Ophthalmopathy in Zaria, Nigeria
Authors: Mustapha Ahmed Hamza , Oluwafemi Aiyekomogbon Joshua , Daniel Halilu Solomon , Salihu Aliyu Yusuf
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This study was aimed at using B-Mode ultrasonography to evaluate the various changes in the eyes of diabetic patients. Methods: The study was conducted with DC 6 Mindray ultrasound machine within a period of six months at the Radiology Department of ABUTH, Zaria. 200 established diabetic patients with ocular complications aged 15 to 70 years were recruited for the study as case group and 200 established diabetic patients without ocular complication as control group. Results: A total of 800 eyes of 400 patients were involved in this study; 200 diabetic patients with ocular complications as case group and equal number of diabetic patients without ocular complications as a control group. The age range of the patients was 15-70 years (54.16 ± 12.0). 164 were males and 236 were females. Out of the 200 cases studied, vitreous haemorrhage was the commonest finding 195(97.5%), followed by cataract 54(27%), Posterior vitreous detachment 28(14%), Retinal detachment 7(3.5%), optic nerve drusen 6(3%), Vitreous liquefaction 5(2.5%), Epiretinal fibrosis 3(1.5%), Asteroid hyalosis 3(1.5%), and intraocular infection 1(0.5%). In the control group however, 27 (13.5%) had vitreous haemorrhage while the remaining 173 (86.5%) showed normal sonographic findings. Sonographic Findings in the case group were significantly higher than those in the control (p?0.05). Conclusion: The utility of ultrasonography in the detection of ocular complications in diabetic patients is reechoed in this study, and diabetic patients should benefit from this safe radiological evaluation as that will aid early detection of the aforementioned complications.
EVALUATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING AND SURGICAL FEAR IN LIVER TRANSPLANT CANDIDATES
Authors: KAYAOĞLU Kübra , KAVAK Funda
Published: December 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between spiritual well-being and surgical fear in liver transplant candidates. This study is a cross-sectional study conducted with 124 liver transplant candidate patients admitted to a university liver transplant center. Personal Information Form, Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) and Surgical Fear Scale (SFS) were used to collect data. It was determined that the patients’ spiritual well-being was 24,59 ± 9,20 and their surgical fear was 40,11 ± 10,94. In the study, it was determined that there was a statistically negative correlation between the patients’ spiritual well-being and surgical fear (r=-0.248, p˂0.05). This study proved that liver transplant candidates with high levels of spiritual well-being have lower levels of surgical fear. For this reason, awareness of spiritual well-being should be developed in healthcare professionals and it is recommended that they provide healthcare services that provide moral and social support to patients.
Finančné právo a daňové právo v 21. storočí - Recenzovaný zborník príspevkov z III. ročníka študentského sympózia
Authors:   Univerzita Pavla Jozefa Šafárika v Košiciach, Popovič Adrián , Sábo Jozef , Vartašová Anna
Published: December 2023

V dňoch 5. až 6. júna 2023 sa na pôde Právnickej fakulty UPJŠ v Košiciach uskutočnila medzinárodná vedecká konferencia V. slovensko-české dni daňového práva zameraná na tému Daňové právo a nové javy v ekonomike. Pri tejto príležitosti bolo dňa 7. júna 2023 pre študentky a študentov Právnickej fakulty UPJŠ v Košiciach zorganizované študentské sympózium na tému: ,,Finančné právo a daňové právo v 21. storočí". Zameranie sympózia bolo zvolené vzhľadom na obsahovú nadväznosť s grantovým projektom VEGAč.1/0485/21: „Súčasnosť a východiská reformovania systému vlastných zdrojov rozpočtu EÚ (právne a ekonomické aspekty aj v kontexte dôsledkov pandémie ochorenia COVID-19)", s grantovým projektom VEGA č. 1/0214/21: ,,Daň z nehnuteľností -právny stav a potenciál" a grantovým projektom APVV-19-0124 pod názvom „Daňové právo a nové javy v ekonomike (digitálne služby, zdieľaná ekonomika, virtuálne meny)", ktorých riešenie v tomto čase prebieha na Katedre finančného práva, daňového práva a ekonómie Právnickej fakulty UPJŠ v Košiciach. Výstupom z tohto sympózia je predkladaný recenzovaný zborník príspevkov, v rámci ktorého sa študenti zameriavajú na skúmanie problematiky nových javov v digitálnej ekonomike (virtuálne meny a zdieľaná ekonomika), no i problematiky rozpočtového procesu, rozhodovacej činnosti Súdneho dvora EÚ a teoreticko-právnych otázok daňovej spravodlivosti s ohľadom na vývoj daňového práva. Autori sa tiež podrobne venujú vo svojich príspevkoch posúdeniu aktuálnej situácie v skúmanej oblasti a prezentujú aj návrhy de lege ferenda, ktoré by mohli prispieť k rozvoju a zlepšovaniu viacerých aspektov zdaňovania, čím je predložené dielo prínosom nielen pre právnu vedu, ale aj pre aplikačnú prax.
Okul Öncesi Dönem Özel Yetenek Potansiyeli Olan Çocukların Eğitim Süreçlerinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: KOÇBAY Aybüke , DİKİCİ SIĞIRTMAÇ Ayperi
Published: December 2023

Araştırmanın amacı, özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların eğitim süreçlerinin değerlendirilmesi ve eğitim ortamlarındaki mevcut durumlarının ortaya koyulmasıdır. Araştırma durum çalışması deseninde yürütülmüştür. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 2021-2022 eğitim-öğretim yılı içinde Antalya ili merkez ilçelerinde bulunan resmi bağımsız anaokullarında görevli 74 okul öncesi öğretmeni oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri araştırmacı tarafından hazırlanan yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu ile toplanmıştır. Araştırmadan elde edilen veriler içerik analizi ve betimsel analiz yöntemleri ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada yapılan analizler sonucunda okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların ayırt edici özelliklerini tespit edebildikleri belirlenmiştir. Okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların akran ilişkileri ve sınıfa uyumlarına ilişkin mevcut durumdaki gözlemlerinin özel yetenekli çocukların akran ilişkileri ile tutarlılık gösterdiği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Araştırmada bazı okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların eğitim süreçleri için sınıf içi düzenlemeler yaptıkları görülmüştür. Okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin çoğunluğunun özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların eğitim süreçlerine dair kendilerini yetersiz gördüklerini özel yetenek potansiyeli olan çocukların eğitim süreçlerine dair desteğe ihtiyaçları olduğunu ifade etmişlerdir.
Dil Gelişimini Desteklemede Etkileşimli Kitap Okuma Uygulamaları: Okul Öncesi Öğretmeni Görüşleri
Authors: PİŞTAV AKMEŞE Pelin , IŞIKDOĞAN UĞURLU Necla , KAYHAN Nilay
Published: December 2023

Etkileşimli Kitap Okuma uygulamaları, okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin çocuklara dil becerilerini ve erken okuryazarlık becerilerini kazandırmalarında önemli bir yer tutmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Etkileşimli Kitap Okuma uygulamalarının erken çocukluk döneminde dil becerileri üzerindeki etkilerinin okul öncesi öğretmen görüşlerine göre irdelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda araştırmaya amaçlı örneklem yoluyla gönüllülük ilkesine göre belirlenen altı (6) okul öncesi öğretmeni dahil edilmiştir. Nitel araştırma yöntemiyle fenomenolojik desende gerçekleşen bu çalışmada veriler 2022-2023 eğitim öğretim yılı bahar döneminde yüz yüze gerçekleşen yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmelerle elde edilmiştir. Veriler nitel araştırma yöntemine uygun olarak içerik analizi ile analiz edilmiştir. Analizler “Aile ve okul ortamı farkı”, “Akran etkileşiminde deneyimler”, “Sosyal katılım becerileri” ve “Dil ve iletişim becerilerinin desteklenmesinde öğretmen yeterlikleri’’ olmak üzere dört ana temada toplanmıştır. Araştırmada öğretmenler Etkileşimli Kitap Okuma uygulamalarının erken okuryazarlık becerileri için önemli olduğunu vurgulamışlardır. Ayrıca erken okuryazarlık becerileri ve çocukların dil gelişimini destekleme anlamında mesleki eğitimlere gereksinimleri olduğunu belirtmişlerdir. Çalışmada öğretmenler erken dönemde ailenin okuma etkinliklerinde daha aktif olarak yer almasının önemine dikkat çekmişlerdir.
Research on social media and journalism (2003-2017): a bibliometric and content review
Authors: Segado-Boj Francisco
Published: December 2023

This paper introduces a bibliometric review of the scientific literature on social media and journalism published by journals indexed by Journal Citation Reports until 2017 (n=213). Besides descriptive measurements, it provides a co-citation and co-word analysis. A quantitative content analysis complements the bibliometric approach. Thus, the paper offers a conceptual and structural analysis of the field of study. Results show that the number of articles on the topic is growing steadily since 2014. United States, Australia and England stand as the most productive countries. Studies are based mostly on data from Europe and North America. Three conceptual clusters are identified: audience participation, user generated content and the influence of social media on journalistic professional values and practices. Most of the studies did not consider specific services but focused on the general concept of “social media”. Twitter was the most analyzed platform until recent years, when scholarly attention changed towards Facebook. Research has preferred focusing on political information in detriment of other branches of journalism. The most employed methods are content analysis and in-depth interviews. Further use of surveys and social network analysis, as well as stronger focus on visual studies, is suggested.
Effects of preconditioning with TNFα and IFNγ in angiogenic potential of mesenchymal stromal cell-derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Cavallero Sophie , Dekali Samir , Guitard Nathalie , Théry Héléne , Hélissey Carole , François Sabine
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have demonstrated therapeutic properties both in vitro and in vivo to treat various diseases, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and pro-angiogenic effects. These therapeutic effects are mediated by their secretome composed of soluble factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The composition of EVs reflects the molecular and functional characteristics of parental cells. MSC preconditioning can alter the composition of EVs, thereby influencing their therapeutic potential.

Methods: MSCs were subjected to preconditioning with two cytokines, TNFα and IFNγ. Following 24 h of preconditioning, MSC-EVs secreted into the culture supernatant were isolated through tangential filtration. Particle concentration and size distribution were measured by nanoparticle tracking analysis, and the surface antigen expression of the EV-specific CD63 was quantified via Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay. The angiogenic potential of MSCEVs obtained after preconditioning MSCs was assessed by the analysis of their protein composition and their influence on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVECs) proliferation, migration, and tube-forming ability.

Results: Preconditioning with TNFα and IFNγ did not influence the MSC-EV profile but did induce changes in their protein content. Indeed, the expression of pro-angiogenic proteins increased in EVs from preconditioned MSCs compared to EVs from no-preconditioned MSCs. EVs from preconditioned MSCs tend to stimulate HUVEC migration, proliferation and tubeforming ability. These observations imply the presence of a pro-angiogenic potential in EVs obtained after preconditioning of MSCs with TNFα and IFNγ.

Discussion: In conclusion, it appears that the pro-angiogenic potential of EVs is enhanced through preconditioning of MSCs with TNFα and IFNγ. The use of these MSCs-EVs in therapy would circumvent the limitations of current cell-based therapies. Indeed, the therapeutic potential of MSC-EVs presents an attractive strategy for exploiting the clinical benefits of MSC therapy. For example, in the field of regenerative medicine, the exploitation of cell-free therapy using highly pro-angiogenic MSC-EVs is of great interest.
Parents’ satisfaction and children's acceptance of nasal compared to oral midazolam for sedation in two consecutive pediatric dental treatments: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Fux-Noy Avia , Saadi Qamar , Shmueli Aviv , Halperson Elinor , Ram Diana , Moskovitz Moti
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Midazolam, by either the oral or the nasal route, is safe and effective in reducing anxiety and improving behavior in children during dental procedures.

Aim

To compare both children's acceptance and parents’ satisfaction with midazolam premedication, when administered as an oral syrup or as a nasal spray and explore whether there were positive or negative changes in acceptance during consecutive dental treatment visits.

Methods

Randomized controlled study among uncooperative 2–6-year-old children who needed at least two similar dental treatments. On each visit, the acceptability of the medication was assessed as good, fair, or poor. The duration of crying after medication administration was recorded. Additionally, parents were asked to rank their satisfaction with the mode of administration.

Results

The study group included 60 children; 30 patients received midazolam orally and 30 nasally. Route of administration did not correlate with medication acceptance in the first (p = 0.11) and second visit (p = 0.61). However, in the oral group, medication acceptance of 73% of children deteriorated on the second visit, compared to 33% in the nasal group (p = 0.01). Parents of children in the oral group expressed less satisfaction with premedication administered on the second visit than did parents of children in the nasal group, p = 0.00. Poor medication acceptance at the first visit (p = 0.014) and oral route of administration (p = 0.014) were found to be predictors of poor medication acceptance at the second visit.

Conclusions

Acceptance of premedication is expected to deteriorate after the first treatment visit, especially in the oral route of administration. Dentists should consider nasal spray administration for young pediatric patients who need more than one dental treatment. Parents should be prepared for possible resistance or refusal by children.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02679781.
Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency: the changing landscape of an eponymous syndrome
Authors: Maharaj Avinaash V.
Published: December 2023

Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency encompasses a broad spectrum of monogenic recessive disorders that theoretically solely abrogate cortisol biosynthesis. In reality, delineating clear genotype-phenotype correlations in this disorder is made complicated by marked phenotypic heterogeneity even within kindreds harbouring identical variants. Phenotypes range from isolated glucocorticoid insufficiency to cortisol deficiency plus a variety of superimposed features including salt-wasting and hypoaldosteronism, primary hypothyroidism, hypogonadism and growth defects. Furthermore, mutation type, domain topology and perceived enzyme activity do not always predict disease severity. Given the high burden of disease and implications of a positive diagnosis, genetic testing is crucial in the management of patients warranting detailed delineation of genomic variants including viable functional studies.
Field effects of oxygenated monoterpenes and estragole combined with pheromone on attraction of Ips typographus and its natural enemies
Authors: Moliterno Antonioni Acacio Campos , Jakuš Rastislav , Modlinger Roman , Unelius C. Rikard , Schlyter Fredrik , Jirošová Anna
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Central European Norway spruce monocultures face Ips typographus outbreaks due to decreasing resistance. These beetles use volatile compounds to communicate and select suitable host trees. Spruce trees, beetles, and their symbiotic ophiostomatoid fungi emit oxygenated monoterpenes, including 1,8-cineole, α-terpineol, camphor, carvone, terpinen-4-ol, isopinocamphone, and pinocamphone, and the phenylpropanoid estragole, particularly in the infestation phase. These compounds trigger strong responses in I. typographus antennae, motivating our field study.

Objective

This study aimed to assess how adding these compounds to the aggregation pheromone of Ips typographus modulates the attraction of this bark beetle and its natural enemies.

Methods

In combination with I. typographus pheromone, estragole, 1,8-cineole, (±)-camphor, (–)-carvone, alpha-terpineol, (–)-terpinen-4-ol, (+)-pinocamphone, and (+)-isopinocamphone at low, medium, and high doses were tested in pheromone traps at two sites in the Czech Republic.

Results

All 1,8-cineole doses and the high estragole dose acted as anti-attractants for I. typographus, whereas all (+)-isopinocamphone doses enhanced their attraction to pheromone. Catches of natural enemies, the Staphylinidae and Pteromalidae, varied by location.

Conclusion

1,8-cineole, isopinocamphone, and estragole may play vital roles in tritrophic interactions among spruce trees, and I. typographus and its natural enemies, and these compounds may be developed into new or enhanced semiochemical-based pest control methods.
The impact of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection on host inflammatory cytokine profiles in patients with TB or other respiratory diseases
Authors: Cottam Annabelle , Manneh Ismaila L. , Gindeh Awa , Sillah Abdou K. , Cham Ousainou , Mendy Joseph , Barry Amadou , Coker Edward G. , Daffeh Georgetta K. , Badjie Simon , Barry Salieu , Owolabi Olumuyiwa , Winter Jill , Walzl Gerhard , Sutherland Jayne S.
Published: December 2023

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 are the two leading causes of infectious disease mortality worldwide, and their overlap is likely frequent and inevitable. Previous research has shown increased mortality in TB/COVID-coinfected individuals, and emerging evidence suggests that COVID-19 may increase susceptibility to TB. However, the immunological mechanisms underlying these interactions remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the impact of prior or concurrent COVID-19 infection on immune profiles of TB patients and those with other respiratory diseases (ORD).

Methods

Serum and nasopharyngeal samples were collected from 161 Gambian adolescents and adults with either TB or an ORD. Concurrent COVID-19 infection was determined by PCR, while prior COVID-19 was defined by antibody seropositivity. Multiplex cytokine immunoassays were used to quantify 27 cytokines and chemokines in patient serum samples at baseline, and throughout treatment in TB patients.

Results

Strikingly, TB and ORD patients with prior COVID-19 infection were found to have significantly reduced expression of several cytokines, including IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-7, compared to those without (p<0.035). Moreover, at month-six of anti-TB treatment, seropositive patients had lower serum Basic FGF (p=0.0115), IL-1β (p=0.0326) and IL-8 (p=0.0021) than seronegative. TB patients with acute COVID-19 coinfection had lower levels of IL-8, IL-13, TNF-α and IP-10 than TB-only patients, though these trends did not reach significance (p>0.035).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that COVID-19 infection alters the subsequent response to TB and ORDs, potentially contributing to pathogenesis. Further work is necessary to determine whether COVID-19 infection accelerates TB disease progression, though our results experimentally support this hypothesis.
Ovarian cancer treatment and natural killer cell-based immunotherapy
Authors: Fan Zhongru , Han Dongyu , Fan Xin , Zhao Lin
Published: December 2023

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the malignant tumors that poses a serious threat to women’s health. Natural killer (NK) cells are an integral part of the immune system and have the ability to kill tumor cells directly or participate indirectly in the anti-tumor immune response. In recent years, NK cell-based immunotherapy for OC has shown remarkable potential. However, its mechanisms and effects remain unclear when compared to standard treatment.

Methods

To explore the value of NK cell-based immunotherapy in the treatment of OC, we conducted a literature review. In comparison to standard treatment, our focus was primarily on the current anti-tumor mechanisms, the clinical effect of NK cells against OC, factors affecting the structure and function of NK cells, and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of NK cells.

Results

We found that NK cells exert their therapeutic effects in OC through mechanisms such as antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity, perforin release, and granule enzyme secretion. They also secrete IFN-γ and TNF-α or engage in Fas/FasL and TRAIL/TRAILR pathways, mediating the death of OC cells. In clinical trials, the majority of patients experienced disease stability with mild side effects after receiving NK cell-based immunotherapy, but there is still a lack of high-quality research evidence regarding its clinical effectiveness. OC and prior experience with standard treatments have an effect on NK cells, and it may be considered to maximize NK cell effects through the modulation of the tumor microenvironment or combination with other therapies.

Conclusions

In this review, we have summarized the current evidence of NK cell applications in the treatment of OC. Furthermore, factors and strategies that influence and enhance the role of NK cell immunotherapy are discussed.
Factors influencing wettability and surface/interface mechanics of plant surfaces: a review
Authors: Tie Jinxin , Gao Mengyuan , Huang Yulin , Li Kecheng , Wang Hui
Published: December 2023

A wide variety of abundant plant leaves exist in nature, and the wettability of their surfaces is formed to adapt to diverse external environments. In this paper we will focus on the factors influencing the wettability of various plant leaves prevalent in nature. And we hope to investigate the interfacial problems of plants from a mechanical point of view. It is found that there are many factors affecting the surface wettability of leaves, such as chemical composition, surface microstructures, hierarchical structures, and growth age. Different influencing factors have different contributions to the change of surface wettability. The surface wax composition influences the surface wettability from a chemical point of view while the hierarchical structure consisting of nanostructures and micron structures also influences the wettability from a structural point of view. Also as the growth age of the plant increases, there is a combined effect on the chemical composition and microstructure of the leaves. Then we discuss the surface/interface mechanics of droplets on various plant leaves and analyze the wetting properties of droplets on different substrates. Finally, we hope that the surface/interface mechanics of plant leaves may be systematically utilized in the future for the preparation of multifunctional biomimetic materials, realizing the crossover of chemistry, biology, mechanics, and other materials science fields.
Current status and development direction of immunomodulatory therapy for intervertebral disk degeneration
Authors: Gao Yanbing , Chen Xiyue , Zheng Guan , Lin Maoqiang , Zhou Haiyu , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: December 2023

Intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is a main factor in lower back pain, and immunomodulation plays a vital role in disease progression. The IVD is an immune privileged organ, and immunosuppressive molecules in tissues reduce immune cell (mainly monocytes/macrophages and mast cells) infiltration, and these cells can release proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, disrupting the IVD microenvironment and leading to disease progression. Improving the inflammatory microenvironment in the IVD through immunomodulation during IVDD may be a promising therapeutic strategy. This article reviews the normal physiology of the IVD and its degenerative mechanisms, focusing on IVDD-related immunomodulation, including innate immune responses involving Toll-like receptors, NOD-like receptors and the complement system and adaptive immune responses that regulate cellular and humoral immunity, as well as IVDD-associated immunomodulatory therapies, which mainly include mesenchymal stem cell therapies, small molecule therapies, growth factor therapies, scaffolds, and gene therapy, to provide new strategies for the treatment of IVDD.
Disentangling a metabolic cross-feeding in a halophilic archaea-bacteria consortium
Authors: Medina-Chávez Nahui Olin , Torres-Cerda Abigail , Chacón Jeremy M. , Harcombe William R. , De la Torre-Zavala Susana , Travisano Michael
Published: December 2023

Microbial syntrophy, a cooperative metabolic interaction among prokaryotes, serves a critical role in shaping communities, due to the auxotrophic nature of many microorganisms. Syntrophy played a key role in the evolution of life, including the hypothesized origin of eukaryotes. In a recent exploration of the microbial mats within the exceptional and uniquely extreme Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB), a halophilic isolate, designated as AD140, emerged as a standout due to its distinct growth pattern. Subsequent genome sequencing revealed AD140 to be a co-culture of a halophilic archaeon from the Halorubrum genus and a marine halophilic bacterium, Marinococcus luteus, both occupying the same ecological niche. This intriguing coexistence hints at an early-stage symbiotic relationship that thrives on adaptability. By delving into their metabolic interdependence through genomic analysis, this study aims to uncover shared characteristics that enhance their symbiotic association, offering insights into the evolution of halophilic microorganisms and their remarkable adaptations to high-salinity environments.
Transcriptomic analysis of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Zhang in transition to the viable but non-culturable state by RNA sequencing
Authors: Bao Qiuhua , Ma Xuebo , Bo Xiaoyu , Pang Jing , Dai Lixia , Wang Huiying , Chen Yongfu , Kwok Lai-Yu
Published: December 2023

Background

Some bacteria enter the viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state to survive harsh environmental conditions and external stresses. This alters cell physiology and has implications for the food industry as some bacteria, such as lactobacilli, undergo similar changes during food processing.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate the transcriptomic changes of a probiotic strain, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Zhang (L. paracasei Zhang), upon transition to the VBNC state using high throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq).

Results

Bacteria were inoculated into the de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe medium and maintained at low temperature and pH to induce cell transition to the VBNC state. Cells were harvested for analysis at five stages of VBNC induction: 0, 3, 30, and 180 days after induction and 210 days when the cells entered the VBNC state. Our results showed that the expression of 2,617, 2,642, 2,577, 2,829, and 2,840 genes was altered at these five different stages. The function of differentially expressed genes (DEGs, compared to healthy cells collected at day 0) and their encoded pathways were analyzed by the Gene Ontology Consortium and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. A total of 10 DEGs were identified in cells that entered the VBNC state: five continuously upregulated (LCAZH_0621, LCAZH_1986, LCAZH_2038, LCAZH_2040, and LCAZH_2174) and five continuously downregulated (LCAZH_0024, LCAZH_0210, LCAZH_0339, LCAZH_0621, and LCAZH_0754).

Conclusions

This study proposes a molecular model of the VBNC mechanism in L. paracasei Zhang, highlighting that changes in cell metabolism improve substrate utilization efficiency, thereby enhancing bacterial survival under adverse conditions. These data may be useful for improving the survival of probiotics in industrial food processing.
Ciprofloxacin enhances the biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus via an agrC-dependent mechanism
Authors: Luo Zhao-xia , Li Yuting , Liu Mei-fang , Zhao Rui
Published: December 2023

Staphylococcus aureus readily forms biofilms on host tissues and medical devices, enabling its persistence in chronic infections and resistance to antibiotic therapy. The accessory gene regulator (Agr) quorum sensing system plays a key role in regulating S. aureus biofilm formation. This study reveals the widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic, ciprofloxacin, strongly stimulates biofilm formation in methicillin-resistant S. aureus, methicillin-sensitive S. aureus, and clinical isolates with diverse genetic backgrounds. Crystal violet staining indicated that ciprofloxacin induced a remarkable 12.46- to 15.19-fold increase in biofilm biomass. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that ciprofloxacin induced denser biofilms. Phenotypic assays suggest that ciprofloxacin may enhance polysaccharide intercellular adhesin production, inhibit autolysis, and reduce proteolysis during the biofilm development, thus promoting initial adhesion and enhancing biofilm stability. Mechanistically, ciprofloxacin significantly alters the expression of various biofilm-related genes (icaA, icaD, fnbA, fnbB, eap, emp) and regulators (agrA, saeR). Gene knockout experiments revealed that deletion of agrC, rather than saeRS, abolishes the ciprofloxacin-induced enhancement of biofilm formation, underscoring the key role of agrC. Thermal shift assays showed ciprofloxacin binds purified AgrC protein, thereby inhibiting the Agr system. Molecular docking results further support the potential interaction between ciprofloxacin and AgrC. In summary, subinhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin stimulate S. aureus biofilm formation via an agrC-dependent pathway. This inductive effect may facilitate local infection establishment and bacterial persistence, ultimately leading to therapeutic failure.
Identification of neural circuits controlling male sexual behavior and sexual motivation by manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Gaytán-Tocavén Lorena , Aguilar-Moreno Alejandro , Ortiz Juan , Alcauter Sarael , Antonio-Cabrera Edwards , Paredes Raúl G.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Different techniques have been used to identify the brain regions that control sexual motivation and sexual behavior. However, the influence of sexual experience on the activation of these brain regions in the same subject is unknown. Using manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI), we analyzed the activation of brain regions in the sexual incentive motivation (SIM) and the partner preference PP (tests) on weeks 1, 5, and 10 in male rats tested for 10 weeks. AIM. In experiment 1, we analyzed the possible toxic effects of 16 mg/kg of MnCl2on male sexual behavior, running wheel, and motor execution. In experiment 2, subjects were tested for SIM and PP using MEMRI.

Methods

In both experiments, a dose of 16 mg/kg (s.c) of chloride manganese (MnCl2) was administered 24 h before subjects were tested and placed immediately thereafter in a 7-Tesla Bruker scanner.

Results

In experiment 1, the dose of 16 mg/kg of MnCl2did not induce behavioral alterations that could interfere with interpreting the imaging data. In experiment 2, we found a clear preference for the female in both the SIM and PP tests. We found a higher signal intensity in the olfactory bulb (OB) in week 1 of the SIM test compared to the control group. We also found increased signal intensity in the socio-sexual behavior and mesolimbic reward circuits in the SIM test in week 1. In the PP test, we found a higher signal intensity in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in week 10 compared to the control group. In the same test, we found increased signal intensity in the socio-sexual and mesolimbic reward circuits in week 5 compared to the control group. Cohen'sdanalysis of the whole brain revealed that as the subjects gained sexual experience we observed a higher brain activation in the OB in the SIM group. The PP group showed higher brain activation in the cortex and subcortical structures as they acquired sexual experience.

Discussion

As the subjects gain sexual experience, more structures of the reward and socio-sexual circuits are recruited, resulting in different, and large brain activations.
Combined RhoA morpholino and ChABC treatment protects identified lamprey neurons from retrograde apoptosis after spinal cord injury
Authors: Hu Jianli , Zhang Guixin , Rodemer William , Jin Li-Qing , Selzer Michael E.
Published: December 2023

Previously, we reported that RhoA knockdown by morpholino antisense oligonucleotides (MOs), and enzymatic digestion of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) at the site of injury with chondroitinase ABC (ChABC), each can reduce retrograde neuronal apoptosis after spinal cord transection in the lamprey. To elucidate the mechanisms in neuronal survival and axon regeneration, we have investigated whether these two effects are additive in vivo. We used lampreys as a spinal cord injury model. MOs were used to knockdown RhoA and Chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) was used to digest CSPGs in vivo. Retrograde labeling, fluorochrome-labeled inhibitor of caspase activity (FLICA), immunohistochemistry, and western blots were performed to assess axonal regeneration, neuronal apoptotic signaling and Akt activation. Four treatment combinations were evaluated at 2-, 4-, and 10-weeks post-transection: (1) Control MO plus enzyme buffer (Ctrl); (2) control MO plus ChABC; (3) RhoA MO plus enzyme buffer (RhoA MO); and (4) RhoA MO plus ChABC (RhoA MO + ChABC). Consistent with our previous findings, at 4-weeks post-transection, there was less caspase activation in the ChABC and RhoA MO groups than in the Ctrl group. Moreover, the RhoA MO plus ChABC group had the best protective effect on identified reticulospinal (RS) neurons among the four treatment combinations. At 2 weeks post-transection, when axons have retracted maximally in the rostral stump and are beginning to regenerate back toward the lesion, the axon tips in the three treatment groups each were closer to the transection than those in the Ctr MO plus enzyme buffer group. Long-term axon regeneration also was evaluated for the large, individually identified RS neurons at 10 weeks post-transection by retrograde labeling. The percent regenerated axons in the RhoA MO plus ChABC group was greater than that in any of the other groups. Akt phosphorylation levels at threonine 308 was quantified in the identified RS neurons by western blots and immunofluorescence. The RhoA MO plus ChABC treatment enhanced pAkt-308 phosphorylation more than any of the other treatment groups. Although some of the effects of CSPGs are mediated through RhoA activation, some growth-inhibiting mechanisms of RhoA and CSPGs are independent of each other, so combinatorial therapies may be warranted.
Predictors of aneurysm shrinkage after flow diversion treatment for internal carotid artery aneurysms: quantitative volume analysis with MRI
Authors: Akiyama Ryo , Ishii Akira , Kikuchi Takayuki , Okawa Masakazu , Yamao Yukihiro , Abekura Yu , Ono Isao , Sasaki Natsuhi , Tsuji Hirofumi , Matsukawa So , Miyamoto Susumu
Published: December 2023

Background and purpose

Although aneurysm shrinkage often occurs after flow diversion treatment for intracranial aneurysms, no reports have addressed the factors associated with aneurysm shrinkage.

Materials and methods

This retrospective single-center study was performed to examine patients with unruptured internal carotid artery aneurysms who were treated using flow diversion and followed up by imaging for at least 12 months. The study outcome was aneurysm shrinkage (volume reduction of ≥10%) 12 months after treatment. Aneurysm volume was quantitatively assessed using the MRIcroGL software. Patient and aneurysm characteristics were statistically analyzed.

Results

This study involved 81 patients with 88 aneurysms. At the 6 months, 12 months, and last follow-ups, the proportion of aneurysms that had shrunk was 50, 64, and 65%, respectively. No adjunctive coiling (odds ratio, 56.7; 95% confidence interval, 7.03–457.21; p < 0.001) and aneurysm occlusion (odds ratio, 90.7; 95% confidence interval, 8.32–988.66; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with aneurysm shrinkage. In patients treated by flow diversion with adjunctive coiling, only the volume embolization rate was a factor significantly associated with aneurysm shrinkage (p < 0.001). Its cutoff value was 15.5% according to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis (area under the curve, 0.87; sensitivity, 0.87; specificity, 0.83).

Conclusion

The rate of aneurysm shrinkage after flow diversion increased during the first 12 months after treatment, but not thereafter. No adjunctive coiling and aneurysm occlusion were predictors of aneurysm shrinkage, respectively. If adjunctive coiling is required, a volume embolization rate of ≤15.5% may be suggested for aneurysm regression.
Unilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion through a modified hemilateral spinous process-splitting approach
Authors: Liu Guanyi , Zou Xiaodi , Dong Yanzhao , Alhaskawi Ahmad , Hu Lihua , Mao Lu , Qian Jun , Ying Jichong , Abdalbary Sahar Ahmed , Alenikova Olga , Ma Yizhong , Lu Hui
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe unilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) via a modified hemilateral spinous process-splitting (MHSPS) approach and determine its effectiveness.

Methods

Sixty-five consecutive patients with the lumbar degenerative disease who underwent MHSPS TLIF between August 2020 and July 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain were evaluated before surgery and at the last follow-up. Postoperative paraspinal muscle atrophy was evaluated on axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

Mean JOA score increased from 13.6 ± 3.21 before surgery to 24.72 ± 3.34 at last follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean recovery rate was 68.2% ± 5.68%. Clinical outcome was excellent in 22, good in 35, and fair in 8 patients. The VAS score for low back pain was significantly lower at the last follow-up than before surgery (1.18 ± 0.99 vs. 3.09 ± 1.35; p < 0.001). The VAS score for leg pain was also significantly lower at the last follow-up than before surgery (1.13 ± 0.91 vs. 6.61 ± 1.23; p < 0.001). The mean paraspinal muscle atrophy rate did not significantly differ between the symptomatic side (6% ± 3.8%) and asymptomatic side (4.8% ± 3.3%) at last follow -up (p = 0.071).

Conclusion

MHSPS TLIF is an effective minimally invasive surgical treatment for selected types of degenerative lumbar disease. This technique can achieve effective spinal decompression and interbody fusion. Its advantages include direct and adequate visualization, vast surgical working space, short operation time, and minimal muscle injury.
Post-stroke fatigue: a review of development, prevalence, predisposing factors, measurements, and treatments
Authors: Chen Wanjie , Jiang Tao , Huang Huahai , Zeng Jingting
Published: December 2023

Background

Post-stroke fatigue (PSF) is a ubiquitous and overwhelming symptom for most stroke survivors. However, there are no effective management strategies for PSF, which is partly due to our limited understanding.

Objective

In this paper, we review the development, prevalence, predisposing factors, measurements, and treatments of PSF.

Results

PSF is an independent symptom after stroke, with a prevalence ranging from 42 to 53%, which depends on the selection of measurement tools and stroke characteristics. It is affected by biological, physical, and psychological factors, among which inflammation may play a key role.

Conclusion

Numerous but non-specific evaluation measurement tools limit the management of PSF. In clinical practice, it may be beneficial to identify PSF by combining scales and objective indexes, such as walking tests and electromyographic examinations. There are no evidence-based interventions to improve PSF. However, increasing evidence suggests that transcranial direct-current stimulation and mindfulness-based interventions may become promising treatments. Further studies are urgently needed to better understand the etiology of PSF, thereby providing the basis for developing new measurement tools and targeted treatments.
Research and progress of focused ultrasound in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ma Xishun , Li Tongxia , Du Lizhen , Han Tongliang
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common degenerative diseases of the central nervous system, with progressive cognitive and memory impairment and decreased ability of daily life as the cardinal symptoms, influencing the life quality of patients severely. There are currently approximately 46 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease worldwide, and the number is expected to triple by 2050, which will pose a huge challenge for healthcare. At present, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States has approved five main drugs for the clinical treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, which are cholinesterase inhibitors tacrine, galantamine, capalatine and donepezil, and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist memantine, although these drugs have shown good efficacy in clinical trials, the actual clinical effect is less effective due to the existence of blood brain barrier. With the continuous development of ultrasound technology in recent years, focused ultrasound, as a non-invasive treatment technique, may target ultrasound energy to the deep brain for treatment without damaging the surrounding tissue. For the past few years, some studies could use focused ultrasound combined with microvesicles to induce blood brain barrier opening and targeted drug delivery to treat Alzheimer’s disease, providing new opportunities for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. This article reviews the application research and progress of focused ultrasound in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, in order to provide new directions and ideas for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.