bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial Factors in the Cell Nucleus
Authors: González-Arzola Katiuska , Díaz-Quintana Antonio
Published: September 2023

The origin of eukaryotic organisms involved the integration of mitochondria into the ancestor cell, with a massive gene transfer from the original proteobacterium to the host nucleus. Thus, mitochondrial performance relies on a mosaic of nuclear gene products from a variety of genomes. The concerted regulation of their synthesis is necessary for metabolic housekeeping and stress response. This governance involves crosstalk between mitochondrial, cytoplasmic, and nuclear factors. While anterograde and retrograde regulation preserve mitochondrial homeostasis, the mitochondria can modulate a wide set of nuclear genes in response to an extensive variety of conditions, whose response mechanisms often merge. In this review, we summarise how mitochondrial metabolites and proteins—encoded either in the nucleus or in the organelle—target the cell nucleus and exert different actions modulating gene expression and the chromatin state, or even causing DNA fragmentation in response to common stress conditions, such as hypoxia, oxidative stress, unfolded protein stress, and DNA damage.
Salivary Chemical Barrier Proteins in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma—Alterations in the Defense Mechanism of the Oral Cavity
Authors: Kalló Gergő , Bertalan Petra Magdolna , Márton Ildikó , Kiss Csongor , Csősz Éva
Published: September 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most frequent types of head and neck cancer. Despite the genetic and environmental risk factors, OSCC is also associated with microbial infections and/or dysbiosis. The secreted saliva serves as the chemical barrier of the oral cavity and, since OSCC can alter the protein composition of saliva, our aim was to analyze the effect of OSCC on the salivary chemical barrier proteins. Publicly available datasets regarding the analysis of salivary proteins from patients with OSCC and controls were collected and examined in order to identify differentially expressed chemical barrier proteins. Network analysis and gene ontology (GO) classification of the differentially expressed chemical barrier proteins were performed as well. One hundred and twenty-seven proteins showing different expression pattern between the OSCC and control groups were found. Protein–protein interaction networks of up- and down-regulated proteins were constructed and analyzed. The main hub proteins (IL-6, IL-1B, IL-8, TNF, APOA1, APOA2, APOB, APOC3, APOE, and HP) were identified and the enriched GO terms were examined. Our study highlighted the importance of the chemical barrier of saliva in the development of OSCC.
Inhibition of Notch Signaling Enhances Antitumor Activity of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor LAQ824
Authors: Mei Qinglang , Xu Xiaohan , Gao Danling , Xu Yuting , Yang Jinbo
Published: September 2023

As a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), LAQ824 (LAQ) effectively inhibits the proliferation of hematological malignancies and solid tumors. However, phase II trials of LAQ in solid tumors were terminated due to dose-dependent toxicity. Furthermore, LAQ has been shown to induce the activation of the Notch signaling pathway in hematopoietic stem cells, which is associated with tumor progression and drug resistance in colon and breast cancers. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the strategy of LAQ combined with a Notch signaling pathway inhibitor to treat solid tumors. We used RT-PCR and Western blot methods to demonstrate that LAQ upregulated the Notch signaling pathway in solid tumor cell lines at the molecular level. The combination of LAQ and a Notch signaling pathway inhibitor was shown by a Chou–Talalay assay to have a synergistic effect in inhibiting solid tumor cell line proliferation in vitro. We also demonstrated that the combination of LAQ and a Notch signaling pathway inhibitor significantly inhibited the growth of tumor cells in vivo using an allograft tumor model. This study indicates that inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway provides a valuable strategy for enhancing solid tumor sensitivity to LAQ.
Suitability of a Profile with Tubercles for Axial Pumps—Investigation Using Flow Simulation
Authors: Derda Mareen , Neumann Ferdinand , Thamsen Paul Uwe
Published: September 2023

Even if wind tunnel tests and simulations have confirmed that tubercles can influence the behaviour of a profile, research in the field of axial pumps has so far been lacking. However, previous studies cannot be transferred to the application of axial pumps, since the requirements for the profile geometry as well as the Reynolds number range differ. The present study aims to address this research gap by performing a CFD simulation with a profile common for axial pumps, the Goe11K, testing four different tubercle configurations. At the same time, this simulation is a preliminary study for experimental tests. The results show that certain tubercle configurations improve the behaviour of the profile in the post-stall area, i.e., increase the lift of the profile at large angles of attack (α). In general, the curve of the profiles with tubercles runs more evenly, without the drastic drop in lift. This improved property comes at the expense of lower maximum lift and increased drag at lower α. With regard to the use of axial pumps, it can be concluded that there are advantages, particularly in the partial load range. These could ultimately enlarge the operation range of an axial pump.
Contribution to the Development of a Smart Ultrasound Scanner: Design and Analysis of the High-Voltage Power Supply of the Transmitter
Authors: Mbele Ndzana Nicolas Daniel , Lekini Nkodo Claude Bernard , Tolok Nelem Aristide , Pierre Pesdjock Mathieu Jean , Abanda Yannick Antoine , Melingui Achille , Zeh Odile Fernande , Ele Pierre
Published: September 2023

A smart ultrasound scanner plays an important role in the transition to point-of-care imaging. DC–DC bipolar converters are essential in the generation of the ultrasound burst signal as they power the piezoelectric transducer. The conventional bipolar converter has minimal output gain and high-voltage stress, and the longer duty cycle on the semiconductors produces high conduction losses and reduces the efficiency of the system. The transmitter supply voltage is minimal, necessitating the use of high-gain bipolar converters. This proposed study is concerned with the development of an improved high-output voltage gain symmetric bipolar DC–DC converter topology which may be suitable for applications such as powering a smart ultrasound scanner transmitter. The proposed converter combines the conventional single-ended primary inductor converter (SEPIC) with a voltage multiplier cell (VMC) to improve voltage gain, transistor duty cycle, efficiency, and reliability. The present study describes the working principle of the proposed converter. The analysis of the voltage gain is carried out in continuous current mode (CCM) and discontinuous current mode (DCM), taking into account the nonidealities of the device. The simulation of the proposed system is carried out in the numerical environment Matlab/Simulink in order to verify its characteristics. A prototype model is realized and the experimental study presented validates the theoretical arguments and simulations. Due to the advantages of continuous input current, self-balancing bipolar outputs, and small component size, the proposed converter is a suitable choice for smart ultrasound transmitters.
The Influence of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Plasma Level in Patients with Schizophrenia—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Szota Anna Maria , Kowalewska Beata , Ćwiklińska-Jurkowska Małgorzata , Dróżdż Wiktor
Published: September 2023

The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to establish whether there is a correlation between the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment and the reduction in psychotic symptoms in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. A systematic search of PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase was conducted up to March 2023. Inclusion criteria: studies in which adult patients with schizophrenia treated with antipsychotic medication received ECT therapy and had the BDNF level measured before and after ECT treatment. Exclusion criteria: animal and in vitro studies or studies not involving complete information about the treatment and concentration of BDNF in plasma. The risk of bias was assessed using Egger’s regression-based test for meta-analysis with continuous outcomes. Six studies comprising 248 individuals with schizophrenia were included. A statistically significant increase in BDNF levels after ECT treatment was observed only in two studies (p < 0.001 and p < 0.027, respectively), whereas in four other studies, an upward trend without statistical significance was noticed. The estimated overall size effect revealed that ECT therapy caused a slight change in the BDNF level but without statistical significance (ES = −0.328). Different numbers of ECT procedures (4-10), final measurement of the BDNF level made at a different time point, using bilateral or unilateral electrode positioning during ECT and treatment with different combinations of typical or atypical antipsychotic medications may be potential reasons for the lack of statistical significance in the changes in BDNF levels after treatment. Data regarding the measurement of BDNF levels pre and post ECT therapy in patients with schizophrenia are very limited without an extended follow-up period and evaluation of mental health change. Our meta-analysis showed that treatment with ECT therapy and antipsychotic medication increases serum BDNF levels in patients with drug-resistant schizophrenia compared to patients treated with medication only; however, this effect is not statistically significant.
Mid- to Long-Term Outcomes of Arthroscopic Shoulder Stabilization in Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akhtar Muzammil , Wen Jimmy , Razick Daniel , Shehabat Mouhamad , Saeed Ali , Baig Osamah , Asim Maaz , Tokhi Ilham , Aamer Sonia , Akhtar Muhammad Bilal
Published: September 2023

There exists a considerable amount of evidence regarding short-term outcomes of shoulder arthroscopy in athletes; however, mid- to long-term data are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to evaluate studies assessing mid- to long-term outcomes and rates of return to sport in athletes undergoing primary shoulder arthroscopy. A search for the systematic review was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase on 14 March 2023. Study parameters, as well as their respective outcomes, were described in detail and compiled into diagrams. Five studies were included, which contained data on a total of 307 shoulders in patients with mean ages ranging from 20.3 to 26.9 years and mean follow-up times ranging from 6.3 to 14 years. The arthroscopic Bankart repair was the primary surgical intervention performed in all five studies. The overall rate of return to sport was 84% (range, 70–100%) across the studies. The rate of return to sport at pre-injury level was 65.2% (range, 40–82.6%) across four studies. The overall rate of recurrent instability was 17.3%, with redislocation specifically occurring in 13.7% of patients across all studies. The overall rate of revision surgery was 11.1%. Athletes who underwent primary shoulder arthroscopy demonstrated favorable outcomes and a high rate of RTS at a minimum follow-up of 5 years. However, rates of recurrent instability, redislocation, and revision surgery occurred at less than favorable numbers, which emphasizes the importance of proper patient selection when considering candidates for arthroscopic versus open repairs.
Marked Reduction of Oxidant Species after Sulfureous Crenotherapy in Females with Joint Diseases and Psoriasis: A Retrospective Real-Life Study
Authors: Costantino Maria , Conti Valeria , Corbi Graziamaria , Giudice Valentina , Caro Francesco De , Filippelli Amelia
Published: September 2023

Oxidative stress, a condition induced by an excessive amount of free radicals, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), shows several gender-related differences in basal cellular redox state and antioxidant responses. Crenotherapy with sulfureous mineral water can improve the cellular redox state. In this retrospective observational study, gender-related differences in the efficacy of sulfureous crenotherapy in decreasing oxidant species were investigated. Seventy-eight patients, stratified by sex, with osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease and Vulgar psoriasis who have received a cycle of sulfureous mud-bath therapy + sulfureous hydropinotherapy were enrolled. Plasma concentration of oxidant species and clinical outcomes were measured at baseline and at the end of treatment. After 2 weeks of sulfureous crenotherapy, a significant amelioration of clinical outcomes and a significant reduction of oxidant species were observed in both sexes, more marked in females than in males (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.04, respectively). For patients with high oxidant species at baseline, females showed a greater reduction in itching compared to males (−95% vs. −50%), while men had a higher amelioration in pain and morning stiffness (−45% vs. −32%, and −50% vs. −37%, respectively). In conclusion, sulfureous crenotherapy can be a valuable strategy to improve cellular redox state in both sexes.
Psychosocial Consequences of Hand Eczema—A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zalewski Adam , Krajewski Piotr K. , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: September 2023

Background: Hand eczema (HE) is a chronic inflammatory disease with a high prevalence, negatively influencing patients’ quality of life (QoL). It may also affect patients’ psychological status. The aim of this study was to assess and characterize the psychological burden of HE, its influence on patients’ QoL, and the presence and severity of anxiety and depressive disorders in HE patients. Methods: The study group consisted of 100 adult HE individuals. To assess the severity of the disease, two instruments were used: the Investigator Global Assessment for Chronic Hand Eczema (IGA-CHE) scale and the Hand Eczema Severity Index (HECSI). Assessment of patients’ quality of life (QoL) was obtained with the use of the DLQI tool. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaires were employed to assess depression and anxiety, respectively, as well as a modified version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-M). Results: The mean DLQI value for the whole group reached 11.62 ± 6.35 points (13.27 ± 6.67 points in females and 9.15 ± 4.95 points in males; p = 0.023). A decrease in QoL correlated positively with the severity of the disease and the severity of itch and pain. In 17 patients (17%), a possible diagnosis of depressive disorder was found. Patients scoring higher results on the PHQ-9 and HADS-M depression (D) questionnaires reported greater intensity of the itch (r = 0.363, p < 0.001, and r = 0.237, p = 0.017, respectively) and the pain (r = 0.445, p < 0.001, and r = 0.287, p = 0.004, respectively). The anxiety disorder might possibly be diagnosed in 25% of patients (n = 25). This study revealed a positive correlation between the severity of the anxiety symptoms, measured with the use of both GAD-7 and HADS-M anxiety (A) tools, and the intensity of the pain (r = 0.248, p = 0.013, and r = 0.342, p = 0.001, respectively). The severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms correlated positively with the severity of the disease. Conclusions: The psychosocial burden of HE is an undeniable phenomenon. The disorder influences patients’ QoL and may cause mental disturbances such as depression and anxiety disorders.
Cortical Mechanisms Underlying Immersive Interactive Virtual Walking Treatment for Amelioration of Neuropathic Pain after Spinal Cord Injury: Findings from a Preliminary Investigation of Thalamic Inhibitory Function
Authors: Gustin Sylvia M. , Bolding Mark , Willoughby William , Anam Monima , Shum Corey , Rumble Deanna , Mark Victor W. , Mitchell Lucie , Cowan Rachel E. , Richardson Elizabeth , Richards Scott , Trost Zina
Published: September 2023

Background: Neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury (SCI) affects approximately 60% of individuals with SCI. Effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments remain elusive. We recently demonstrated that our immersive virtual reality walking intervention (VRWalk) may be effective for SCI NP. Additionally, we found that SCI NP may result from a decrease in thalamic γ-aminobutyric-acid (GABA), which disturbs central sensorimotor processing. Objective: While we identified GABAergic changes associated with SCI NP, a critical outstanding question is whether a decrease in SCI NP generated by our VRWalk intervention causes GABA content to rise. Method: A subset of participants (n = 7) of our VRWalk trial underwent magnetic resonance spectroscopy pre- and post-VRWalk intervention to determine if the decrease in SCI NP is associated with an increase in thalamic GABA. Results: The findings revealed a significant increase in thalamic GABA content from pre- to post-VRWalk treatment. Conclusion: While the current findings are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution, pre- to post-VRWalk reductions in SCI NP may be mediated by pre- to post-treatment increases in thalamic GABA by targeting and normalizing maladaptive sensorimotor cortex reorganization. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of pain recovery can serve to validate the efficacy of home-based VR walking treatment as a means of managing pain following SCI. Neuromodulatory interventions aimed at increasing thalamic inhibitory function may provide more effective pain relief than currently available treatments.
Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty and Descemet Stripping Only Using a 3D Visualization System
Authors: Cano-Ortiz Antonio , Sánchez-Ventosa Álvaro , Díaz-Mesa Vanesa , González-Cruces Timoteo , Villalba-González Marta , Villarrubia-Cuadrado Alberto
Published: September 2023

(1) Purpose: The aim was to analyze the outcomes of Descemet’s membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet stripping only (DSO) surgeries using a glasses-assisted NGENUITY® 3D visualization system (Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, TX, USA). (2) Methods: Five consecutive cases of DMEK surgery and four consecutive cases of DSO were performed using the NGENUITY® system in this prospective study carried out at the Arruzafa Hospital, Córdoba, Spain. Only one eye from each patient received surgery. Best corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) using EDTRS charts, central corneal thickness using the Casia II optical coherence tomograph (Tomey Co., Nagoya, Japan), and endothelial cell count using the Tomey EM-4000 (Tomey Co., Nagoya, Japan) for DMEK cases or the Nidek CEM-530 (Nidek Co., Ltd., Gamagori, Japan) specular microscopes for DSO cases were recorded preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postsurgery. (3) Results: DMEK cases included one male and four female subjects, with a mean age of 73.6 ± 9.5 years. Average improvement in CDVA 3 months after surgery was 0.46 ± 0.16 decimal. Average change in cell count between 1 and 3 months postsurgery was 360.75 ± 289.38 cells/mm2. DSO cases included four female subjects, with a mean age of 64.2 ± 9.7 years. The average improvement in CDVA 3 months after surgery was 0.09 ± 0.17 decimal. All cases also had phacoemulsification carried out. He average change in cell count between 1 and 3 months after surgery was 460 ± 515.69 cells/mm2. There were no associated complications during surgery or the follow-up period in any of the cases. (4) Conclusions: In addition to the known benefits of the use of a 3D visualization system during surgery, the present study shows that the system can be successfully used in both DMEK and DSO procedures with a very short learning curve for the surgeon.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Carotid–Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jannasz Iwona , Pruc Michal , Rahnama-Hezavah Mansur , Targowski Tomasz , Olszewski Robert , Feduniw Stepan , Petryka Karolina , Szarpak Lukasz
Published: September 2023

COVID-19 is a complex multisystemic disease that can result in long-term complications and, in severe cases, death. This study investigated the effect of COVID-19 on carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) as a measurement to evaluate its impact on arterial stiffness and might help predict COVID-19-related cardiovascular (CV) complications. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies, and meta-analysis was performed. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (nr. CRD42023434326). The Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Scale was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Nine studies reported cfPWV among COVID-19 patients and control groups. The pooled analysis showed that cfPWV in COVID-19 patients was 9.5 ± 3.7, compared to 8.2 ± 2.2 in control groups (MD = 1.32; 95% CI: 0.38–2.26; p = 0.006). A strong association between COVID-19 infection and increased cfPWV suggests a potential link between the virus and increased arterial stiffness. A marked increase in arterial stiffness, a known indicator of CV risk, clearly illustrates the cardiovascular implications of COVID-19 infection. However, further research is required to provide a clearer understanding of the connection between COVID-19 infection, arterial compliance, and subsequent CV events.
The Yin and the Yang of Hemostasis in End-Stage Liver Disease
Authors: Saner Fuat H. , Scarlatescu Ecaterina , Broering Dieter Clemens , Bezinover Dmitri
Published: September 2023

Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) undergoing liver transplantation (LT) are prone to thromboses both while on the waiting list and in the perioperative period. This hypercoagulability is associated with significant endothelial dysfunction (ED) due to nitric oxide dysregulation. ED and increased thrombin generation are the main factors responsible for this hypercoagulability. Sepsis alone can significantly alter a patient’s coagulation profile. In combination with ESLD, however, sepsis or septic shock are responsible for very complex changes. This makes both the assessment and management of coagulation in septic patients with ESLD very challenging. Viscoelastic testing (VET) is the preferred method of coagulation management in patients with cirrhosis because, as with standard laboratory testing, VET can assess the entire coagulation system including the interaction between both pro- and anticoagulants and platelets.
Perioperative Complications in Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Hermanns Henning , Alberts Tim , Preckel Benedikt , Strypet Magnus , Eberl Susanne
Published: September 2023

Infective endocarditis is a challenging condition to manage, requiring collaboration among various medical professionals. Interdisciplinary teamwork within endocarditis teams is essential. About half of the patients diagnosed with the disease will ultimately have to undergo cardiac surgery. As a result, it is vital for all healthcare providers involved in the perioperative period to have a comprehensive understanding of the unique features of infective endocarditis, including clinical presentation, echocardiographic signs, coagulopathy, bleeding control, and treatment of possible organ dysfunction. This narrative review provides a summary of the current knowledge on the incidence of complications and their management in the perioperative period in patients with infective endocarditis.
Natural and Synthetic Polymeric Biomaterials for Application in Wound Management
Authors: Prete Sabrina , Dattilo Marco , Patitucci Francesco , Pezzi Giuseppe , Parisi Ortensia Ilaria , Puoci Francesco
Published: September 2023

Biomaterials are at the forefront of the future, finding a variety of applications in the biomedical field, especially in wound healing, thanks to their biocompatible and biodegradable properties. Wounds spontaneously try to heal through a series of interconnected processes involving several initiators and mediators such as cytokines, macrophages, and fibroblasts. The combination of biopolymers with wound healing properties may provide opportunities to synthesize matrices that stimulate and trigger target cell responses crucial to the healing process. This review outlines the optimal management and care required for wound treatment with a special focus on biopolymers, drug-delivery systems, and nanotechnologies used for enhanced wound healing applications. Researchers have utilized a range of techniques to produce wound dressings, leading to products with different characteristics. Each method comes with its unique strengths and limitations, which are important to consider. The future trajectory in wound dressing advancement should prioritize economical and eco-friendly methodologies, along with improving the efficacy of constituent materials. The aim of this work is to give researchers the possibility to evaluate the proper materials for wound dressing preparation and to better understand the optimal synthesis conditions as well as the most effective bioactive molecules to load.
Novel Biocement/Honey Composites for Bone Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Medvecky Lubomir , Giretova Maria , Stulajterova Radoslava , Sopcak Tibor , Jevinova Pavlina , Luptakova Lenka
Published: September 2023

New biocements based on a powdered mixture of calcium phosphate/monetite (TTCPM) modified with the addition of honey were prepared by mixing the powder and honey liquid components at a non-cytotoxic concentration of honey (up to 10% (w/v)). The setting process of the cements was not affected by the addition of honey, and the setting time of ~4 min corresponded to the fast setting calcium phosphate cements (CPCs). The cement powder mixture was completely transformed into calcium-deficient nanohydroxyapatite after 24 h of hardening in a simulated body fluid, and the columnar growth of long, needle-like nanohydroxyapatite particles around the original calcium phosphate particles was observed in the honey cements. The compressive strength of the honey cements was reduced with the content of honey in the cement. Comparable antibacterial activities were found for the cements with honey solutions on Escherichia coli, but very low antibacterial activities were found for Staphylococcus aureus for all the cements. The enhanced antioxidant inhibitory activity of the composite extracts was verified. In vitro cytotoxicity testing verified the non-cytotoxic nature of the honey cement extracts, and the addition of honey promoted alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium deposit production, and the upregulation of osteogenic genes (osteopontin, osteocalcin, and osteonectin) by mesenchymal stem cells, demonstrating the positive synergistic effect of honey and CPCs on the bioactivity of cements that could be promising therapeutic candidates for the repair of bone defects.
Pharmacogenetics of Long-Term Outcomes of Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: The Functional Role of CYP2D6 and CYP2C19
Authors: Sandhu Amrit , Naderi Elnaz , Wijninga Morenika , Liemburg Edith ,   GROUP Investigators, Cath Danielle , Bruggeman Richard , Alizadeh Behrooz
Published: September 2023

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) are complex mental disorders, and while treatment with antipsychotics is important, many patients do not respond or develop serious side effects. Genetic variation has been shown to play a considerable role in determining an individual’s response to antipsychotic medication. However, previous pharmacogenetic (PGx) studies have been limited by small sample sizes, lack of consensus regarding relevant genetic variants, and cross-sectional designs. The current study aimed to investigate the association between PGx variants and long-term clinical outcomes in 691 patients of European ancestry with SSD. Using evidence from the literature on candidate genes involved in antipsychotic pharmacodynamics, we created a polygenic risk score (PRS) to investigate its association with clinical outcomes. We also created PRS using core variants of psychotropic drug metabolism enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19. Furthermore, the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 functional activity scores were calculated to determine the relationship between metabolism and clinical outcomes. We found no association for PGx PRSs and clinical outcomes; however, an association was found with CYP2D6 activity scores by the traditional method. Higher CYP2D6 metabolism was associated with high positive and high cognitive impairment groups relative to low symptom severity groups. These findings highlight the need to test PGx efficacy with different symptom domains. More evidence is needed before pharmacogenetic variation can contribute to personalized treatment plans.
Combined Application of Desulfurization Gypsum and Biochar for Improving Saline-Alkali Soils: A Strategy to Improve Newly Reclaimed Cropland in Coastal Mudflats
Authors: Wang Peijun , Liu Qi , Fan Shenglong , Wang Jing , Mu Shouguo , Zhu Chunbo
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the effects of combined (mixed) application of desulfurization gypsum and biochar on crop growth and soil properties in the saline-alkali soils of coastal mudflats through indoor pot experiments and eight experimental ameliorant treatments. Among them, CK was the control of newly reclaimed cropland in the study area with no added ameliorator, treatment A was desulfurization gypsum applied alone, and treatment F was biochar applied alone, while treatments B, C, D, and E were set as a combination of desulfurization gypsum and biochar treatments with different ratios, and treatment G was a local multi-year improved farmland soil with no added ameliorator. Additionally, an evaluation index system was established for evaluating the saline-alkali soil improvement in the newly reclaimed cropland. Finally, the improvement effect was evaluated by assessing soil physical and chemical indicators, as well as nutrient and crop growth indicators. Based on the results, the following conclusions were drawn: (1) Desulfurization gypsum and biochar significantly improved the soil physicochemical properties. Both single and mixed application of desulfurization gypsum significantly increased soil Ca2+, SO42−, and Mg2+ contents and significantly reduced soil pH, sodium adsorption ratio, and bulk density. Both single and mixed application of biochar significantly reduced soil bulk density and significantly increased water-soluble K+, field capacity (water-holding capacity), available phosphorus, available potassium, and organic matter contents. (2) Both single and mixed application of desulfurization gypsum and biochar demonstrated effectiveness in promoting crop growth, where the fresh weight, dry weight, plant height, and leaf area of peanut were higher than those of treatments CK and G. Treatment A (desulfurization gypsum 100 g/kg) was the most effective ameliorant treatment, in terms of improving the fresh and dry weight of peanut. Treatment C (desulfurization gypsum 75 g/kg, biochar 20 g/kg) had the most significant effect on peanut plant height and leaf area. (3) After 60 days of planting, the improvement effect of each treatment was ranked as C > A > E > B > D > F > G > CK. The treatments with a desulfurization gypsum–biochar combination and desulfurization gypsum alone had the best improvement effect, followed by the treatment with biochar alone.
Domestic Regional Synergy in Achieving National Climate Goals—The Role of Comparative Advantage in Emission Reduction
Authors: Chen Dongxu , Chang Xiaoying , Hong Tao , Ma Tao
Published: September 2023

Domestic regional synergistic emission reduction is important in achieving national climate goals. This study constructed a game theory-based model for regional synergistic emission reduction, modified the Basic Climate Game using the exact-hat algebra method, and expanded the game model using a general spatial equilibrium model to incorporate cross-regional economic impacts generated by emission reduction actions through factors and product flows. The formation of regional comparative advantages in emission reductions and their impact on synergistic emission reductions were revealed through regional characteristics such as emission elasticity, sectoral structure, regional trade shares, and green total factor productivity. A form of synergy was then proposed that utilizes the comparative advantages of different regions, allowing for synergistic emission reductions across different income regions and engagement with regions that are still at the carbon-peaking stage in cooperation. Moreover, the model was created to be as close to the economic reality as possible to provide a trade, industry, and economic growth policy that complements emission-reduction policies.
The Pleasure and Pain in Taboo Exploitation
Authors: Allan Keith
Published: September 2023

The taboo exploitation examined in this essay is swearing. Swearing intersects in complex ways with the giving and taking of pleasure and concomitantly coping with pain or, conversely, craving to inflict pain. Swearing is normally restricted to colloquial styles because it is commonly perceived to breach the rules of courtesy by offending against standards of good taste and good manners. The breaking of this taboo is an emotional release. Swearing has a special place in our neural anatomy, perhaps accounting for: (a) its effectiveness displaying pleasure and managing pain or the hypoalgesia and other physiological effects in laboratory studies; (b) for the tendency of any disparaging denotation or connotation to dominate the interpretation of the immediate context. I recognize five frequently synchronous functions for swearing from the utterer’s as well as the audience point of view: (i) The expletive function, often marking attitude to what is said. (ii) Abuse, insult, banter. (iii) Spicing up the message. (iv) Expression of social solidarity. (v) The discourse function. There is an additional from an audience point of view: (vi) Characterizing an individual’s behavior. For every function, the degree of pleasure and/or pain and the kind of taboo exploitation is assessed.
In Search of Apis mellifera pomonella in Kazakhstan
Authors: Temirbayeva Kamshat , Torekhanov Aibyn , Nuralieva Ulzhan , Sheralieva Zhanar , Tofilski Adam
Published: September 2023

Apis mellifera pomonella is one of two subspecies that represent the eastern limits of honey bee (Apis mellifera) distribution, and it is important to understand its biogeography and evolution. Despite this, A. m. pomonella was not investigated after its discovery 20 years ago. In particular, it is not known if it was hybridized or not with exotic subspecies introduced by beekeepers. In this study, we analysed the variation in honey bee forewing shape in Kazakhstan. Bees were collected from apiaries, where the origin of the queens was not controlled by beekeepers; they formed a group called “local bees”, and apiaries where queens declared as either A. m. carnica or A. m. mellifera were obtained from queen breeders. The two later groups were called “exotic bees”. We showed that local bees are still distinct from exotic ones. However, some samples showed signs of introgression with exotic subspecies from lineage C. In terms of wing shape, the local bees were most similar to lineage O. We concluded that the local bees most likely represented A. m. pomonella. We provided wing images and identification data, which can help to identify A. m. pomonella and protect it in the future. It is interesting that the nearby honey bee population sourced from China, which is not separated by any clear barrier to gene flow, belonged to lineage M.
Molecular Investigation of Mitochondrial RNA19 Role in the Pathogenesis of MELAS Disease
Authors: Loguercio Polosa Paola , Capriglia Francesco , Bruni Francesco
Published: September 2023

In mammalian mitochondria, the processing of primary RNA transcripts involves a coordinated series of cleavage and modification events, leading to the formation of processing intermediates and mature mt-RNAs. RNA19 is an unusually stable unprocessed precursor, physiologically polyadenylated, which includes the 16S mt-rRNA, the mt-tRNALeuUUR and the mt-ND1 mRNA. These peculiarities, together with the alteration of its steady-state levels in cellular models with defects in mitochondrial function, make RNA19 a potentially important molecule for the physiological regulation of mitochondrial molecular processes as well as for the pathogenesis of mitochondrial diseases. In this work, we quantitatively and qualitatively examined RNA19 in MELAS trans-mitochondrial cybrids carrying the mtDNA 3243A>G transition and displaying a profound mitochondrial translation defect. Through a combination of isokinetic sucrose gradient and RT-qPCR experiments, we found that RNA19 accumulated and co-sedimented with the mitoribosomal large subunit (mt-LSU) in mutant cells. Intriguingly, exogenous expression of the isolated LARS2 C-terminal domain (Cterm), which was shown to rescue defective translation in MELAS cybrids, decreased the levels of mt-LSU-associated RNA19 by relegating it to the pool of free unbound RNAs. Overall, the data reported here support a regulatory role for RNA19 in mitochondrial physiopathological processes, designating this RNA precursor as a possible molecular target in view of therapeutic strategy development.
Pigeon during the Breeding Cycle: Behaviors, Composition and Formation of Crop Milk, and Physiological Adaptation
Authors: Wang Liuxiong , Zhu Jianguo , Xie Peng , Gong Daoqing
Published: September 2023

Pigeon is an important economic poultry species in many countries. As an altricial bird, its growth and development are largely reliant on pigeon milk produced by the crop tissue in the first week. During the breeding cycle, pigeons undergo a series of behavioral changes. Pigeon milk is generally characterized by having high concentrations of proteins and lipids, and a complicated regulatory network is involved in the milk formation. Hormones, especially prolactin, could promote the proliferation of crop epidermal cells and nutrient accumulation. The expression of target genes associated with these important biological processes in the crop epidermis is affected by non-coding RNAs. Meanwhile, signaling pathways, such as target of rapamycin (TOR), Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (JAK/STAT), protein kinase B (Akt), etc., influence the production of crop milk by either enhancing protein synthesis in crop cells or inducing apoptosis of crop epidermal cells. In order to adapt to the different breeding periods, pigeons are physiologically changed in their intestinal morphology and function and liver metabolism. This paper reviews the behaviors and physiological adaptations of pigeon during the breeding cycle, the composition of pigeon crop milk, and the mechanism of its formation, which is important for a better understanding of the physiology of altricial birds and the development of artificial crop milk.
Infantile Hemangioma: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Sandru Florica , Turenschi Alina , Constantin Andreea Teodora , Dinulescu Alexandru , Radu Andreea-Maria , Rosca Ioana
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: With an incidence of 4–10%, infantile hemangiomas (IH) are the most encountered benign tumors in infancy. Low birth weight (LBW), prematurity, female sex, multiple gestations, and family history of IH are some of the statistically proven risk factors for developing IH. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of IH in our clinic and its connection to maternal and perinatal factors. (2) Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study, over three years (2020–2022), at the Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Prof. Dr. P. Sârbu”, in Bucharest, Romania. (3) Results: During this period, 12,206 newborns were born and we identified 14 infants with infantile hemangioma. In our study, the prevalence of infantile hemangioma was 0.11%. The prevalence of IH in pregnancies obtained through in vitro fertilization was 1%, in twin pregnancies it was 2.27%, and in those with placenta previa, it was 4.16%. (4) Conclusions: Our findings provide a solid image of the prevalence of IH in our country and underline that the development of IH is strongly connected to maternal and perinatal variables, such as: preterm newborns, in vitro fertilization, high blood pressure, anemia, hypothyroidism, placenta previa, and twin pregnancy.
Facing Your Fears: Navigating Social Anxieties and Difference in Contemporary Fairy Tales
Authors: Trotter Dorothea
Published: September 2023

In the 20th and 21st centuries, the rise of audio-visual media, particularly cinema and television, brought about new visual techniques and storytelling conventions that have transformed the way fairy tales are adapted for the screen. Initially adapted for a younger audience, newer adaptations often return to the darker and more horrific elements of the source texts; this includes body horror and an emphasis on physiological differences. This article employs structural, cultural, and folkloric interpretive lenses for the analysis of three contemporary, audio-visual fairy tales to discuss the way contemporary fairy tales include disability and difference as social constructs that are shaped by cultural attitudes and anxieties. The stories’ plots are driven by the protagonists’ “otherness”, and these texts feature transformations that provide clues to understanding current standards of beauty and normality. I argue that newer adaptations place an emphasis on finding resolutions to difference that challenge the traditional idea that if one has a face or body that strays from the standard of the norm, one must die, relegate oneself to the margins, or join others like oneself.
Research on Evaluation Indicator of Ice Rink and Curling Stone Motion for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games Based on Video Recognition Method
Authors: Yang Qiyong , Li Shuaiyu , Li Junxing , Zhang Wenyuan , Wang Quan , Ma Xiuyue
Published: September 2023

During curling sports, the movement of the stone is affected by the quality of the ice. Therefore, the delivery team led by the ice maker hopes that the quality of the ice surface will be stable and that the athletes will always ‘read the ice’ and pay attention to the small changes in the ice surface. This phenomenon is the charm of curling. Many friction models have been proposed to describe the regularity of the curling motion. In the curling competitions of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games, the 2021 World Wheelchair Curling Championships, and the warm-up competition before, the research team installed a video image capture system in the arena to capture and record the data of the curling motion by using the depth neural network and object tracking algorithm. Further motion data research verifies the relationship between the friction coefficient and the speed. The quality control parameter of ice rink α is proposed, which is related to the influencing factors of the ice surface temperature, the ice hardness, the size of the pebble point, and the width of the curling friction band. The quality of the curling ice rink can be evaluated accurately and comprehensively by using parameter α. Based on the relationship between the friction coefficient and the speed, a physical model of horizontal sliding of the curling stone is established, which agrees well with the results of data obtained from video acquisition. Therefore, the movement distance along the rink can be accurately predicted. This paper analyzes the relationship between the long-time (the time it takes for the curling stone to travel between the two hog lines) and the stop position and that between the long-time and the split-time (the time it takes for the curling stone to travel from the back line to the hog line). Based on this result, a ruler can be established to assist athletes in estimating the sliding distance of the stone before curling throwing. This research also studies the relationship between three factors (the sliding speed in the x-direction, the angular speed, and a tiny lateral deflection speed in the y-direction) and the deviation of the stone. At the same time, there are also some interesting phenomena of the lateral deflection of the stone, such as the relationship between the lateral deflection angle tanθ and the initial lateral speed. As a result, the prediction of the curling stone’s exact final location can be realized. In summary, this article proposes an indicator for evaluating the quality of ice rinks and a physical model of curling based on the curling friction model, which is validated by data obtained from a video capture system of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The results described above have been applied in the post-match operation of the National Aquatics Center to guide the production of Olympic-grade ice surfaces and to guide athletes to “read ice” accurately during training.
Role of New Chiral Additives on Physical-Chemical Properties of the Nematic Liquid Crystal Matrix
Authors: Merekalov Alexey S. , Karpov Oleg N. , Shandryuk Georgiy A. , Otmakhova Olga A. , Finko Alexander V. , Bakirov Artem V. , Bezborodov Vladimir S. , Talroze Raisa V.
Published: September 2023

We have synthesized and studied three new chiral substances as additives to a nematic liquid crystal. The difference in the optical activity and chemical structure of additive molecules results in the appearance of the chiral nematic phase and the change in both the compatibility of the mixture components and temperature range of the liquid crystal phase. The role of additives with fundamentally different structures and optical activities is shown. The increase in the TNI that is observed in mixtures with 4-[(2S)-(+)-2-Methylbutoxy]benzoic acid indicate the possibility of the increase in order caused by the formation of molecularly rigid and elongated dimers of the additive, which was confirmed using infrared spectra. The doping of the nematic liquid crystal with (2R)-(+)-2-[4-[2-Chloro-4-(4-hexylphenyl)phenyl]phenoxy]propanoic acid causes the lowering of TNI. The binol derivative S-(+)-6-[1-[2-(5-Carboxypentoxy)naphthalen-1-yl]naphthalen-2-yl] oxyhexanoic acid has the highest chirality among the additives used. One can explain the effects observed in terms of the role of size, shape, and compatibility with the nematic matrix as shown by the molecules that are used as additives.