bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NETWORK TOXICOLOGY FOR THE CARDIOVASCULAR TOXICITY ANALYSIS OF TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITORS
Authors: Karakuş Fuat
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore potential molecular mechanisms and targets of cardiovascular toxicities caused by tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Therefore, toxicogenomic data mining was conducted focusing on sunitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib, axitinib, and their associations with cardiovascular diseases.
Material and Method: Common genes between tyrosine kinase inhibitors and cardiovascular diseases were uncovered via comparative toxicogenomic databases. Additionally, protein-protein and gene-gene interactions were identified using STRING and GeneMANIA, respectively. Subsequently, hub proteins associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced cardiovascular diseases were determined through Metascape. Transcription factors and microRNAs related to this toxicity were identified using ChEA3 and MIENTURNET, respectively. Finally, gene ontology enrichment analysis and the most associated molecular pathways were identified using the DAVID database and Metascape, respectively.
Result and Discussion: Toxicogenomic data mining revealed six genes common between tyrosine kinase inhibitors and cardiovascular diseases, with five of these genes (FLT1, FLT4, KDR, MAPK1, and MAPK3) identified as hub genes. Physical interaction was dominant among these hub genes (77.64%). Sunitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib, and axitinib generally downregulated the activities of these proteins. SOX17 and SOX18 were prominent among transcription factors, while hsa-miR-199a-3p was the most important microRNA associated with this toxicity. Moreover, the Ras signaling pathway was mostly associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced cardiovascular toxicities. These findings make a substantial contribution to understanding the processes underlying cardiovascular diseases induced by sunitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib, and axitinib. They also reveal novel potential therapeutic targets, including genes, proteins, transcription factors, microRNAs, and pathways.
Climate influence seed production in managed and unmanaged Nothofagus pumilio forests of Southern Patagonia
Authors: Rodriguez-Souilla Julian , Cellini Juan M. , Roig Fidel A. , Lencinas María V. , Chaves Jimena E. , Peri Pablo L. , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J.
Published: July 2024

Background: Annual seed production is key to understand natural forest dynamics and to apply sustainable forest management. This process is subjected to variations according to annual and seasonal climatic conditions, locally affected by El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) seasonality. Recognising how these variables affect the dynamics of harvested forests is useful for developing forest management strategies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyse annual seed production (SP) in Nothofagus pumilio (Poepp. & Endl.) Krasser stands harvested under variable retention and unmanaged primary forests in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, related to the occurrence of climatic events over a 17-year period (2006-2022).
Methods: Seed production (million ha-1 year-1) was annually measured in three managed stands with different retention levels (AR: aggregates; DRI: dispersed with aggregate protection; DR: dispersed without aggregate protection) and three primary forests (PF) stands as control sites (4 treatments x 3 areas x 6 replicates x 17 years). Values of occurrences of climatic events (positive or negative values of ENSO and SAM) were related to monthly temperature and rainfall. ANOVAs, correlation analyses and statistical modelling were performed to predict SP based on climatic variables and forest treatments.
Results: Seed production varied over years and among forest treatments depending on annual climate variations, with annual averages for the studied period of: 9.35 million ha-1 year-1 for PF, 7.16 million ha-1 year-1 for AR, 2.25 million ha-1 year-1 for DRI and 1.08 million ha-1 year-1 for DR. ENSO+ and SAM+ acted as a trigger of high SP, associated to higher temperatures and dry conditions, mainly during spring and summer. The models predicted SP explaining 73-85% of its variability, considering minimum and maximum temperatures and ENSO mean values as better predictors.
Conclusions: Findings presented in this study have important implications for forest management as a tool for understanding forest dynamics related to seeding, a key factor for forest regeneration in a context of high climate variability. However, within a context of climate change with extreme events, there is a need for long-term monitoring of seeding processes in Nothofagus forests.
Approximation of classes of Poisson integrals by rectangular Fejér means
Authors: Rovenska Olga
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the problem of approximation of classes of periodic functions by rectangular linear means of Fourier series. Asymptotic equalities are found for upper bounds of deviations in the uniform metric of rectangular Fejér means on classes of periodic functions of several variables generated by sequences that tend to zero at the rate of geometric progression. In one-dimensional cases, these classes consist of Poisson integrals, namely functions that can be regularly extended in the fixed strip of a complex plane.
A multi-algorithm approach for modeling coastal wetland eco-geomorphology
Authors: Tan Zeli , Leung L. Ruby , Liao Chang , Carniello Luca , Rodríguez José F. , Saco Patricia M. , Sandi Steven G.
Published: July 2024

Coastal wetlands play an important role in the global water and biogeochemical cycles. Climate change makes it more difficult for these ecosystems to adapt to the fluctuation in sea levels and other environmental changes. Given the importance of eco-geomorphological processes for coastal wetland resilience, many eco-geomorphology models differing in complexity and numerical schemes have been developed in recent decades. However, their divergent estimates of the response of coastal wetlands to climate change indicate that substantial structural uncertainties exist in these models. To investigate the structural uncertainty of coastal wetland eco-geomorphology models, we developed a multi-algorithm model framework of eco-geomorphological processes, such as mineral accretion and organic matter accretion, within a single hydrodynamics model. The framework is designed to explore possible ways to represent coastal wetland eco-geomorphology in Earth system models and reduce the related uncertainties in global applications. We tested this model framework at three representative coastal wetland sites: two saltmarsh wetlands (Venice Lagoon and Plum Island Estuary) and a mangrove wetland (Hunter Estuary). Through the model–data comparison, we showed the importance of using a multi-algorithm ensemble approach for more robust predictions of the evolution of coastal wetlands. We also found that more observations of mineral and organic matter accretion at different elevations of coastal wetlands and evaluation of the coastal wetland models at different sites in diverse environments can help reduce the model uncertainty.
Student Evaluation of Teachers’ Effectiveness (SETE) scale: translation, cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties in a Latin American sample
Authors: Villar-Guevara Miluska , Livia-Segovia José Hector , García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Fernández-Mallma Israel
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Teacher effectiveness is a burgeoning field. Those responsible for educational policies seem increasingly committed to this fact, since it is one of the most important factors that influence the success of a university student; for this reason, the study of this topic has gained relevance in recent years. Therefore, an instrument with adequate psychometric properties is needed to measure this construct in Spanish-speaking countries.

Objective

The study had the purpose of translating, adapting, and evaluating the internal structure, providing evidence of reliability and validity of the Student Evaluation of Teachers’ Effectiveness (SETE) Scale in a Latin American sample.

Methods

An instrumental study was carried out and through convenience sampling, data were collected from 1,000 university students from South America belonging to a private educational network. The participants were between 18 and 40 years old (M = 21.25, SD = 2.99). Analyzes used Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS 24 statistical software.

Results

Confirmatory Factor Analysis provided a 4-factor, 28-item fit model (CMIN/DF = 4.359; CFI = 0.956; SRMR = 0.030; RMSEA = 0.058). The results demonstrated good internal consistency (α = between 0.927 and 0.961; CR = between 0.927 and 0.962; AVE = between 0.646 and 0.799). Evidence of validity and reliability was obtained for the total sample.

Discussion

This adaptation and validation of the SETE scale makes it a valid, useful, reliable, and necessary tool that can be considered to evaluate teachers’ effectiveness from the perspective of university students.
Hydrodynamic performance of a submersible net cage integrated with an offshore platform
Authors: Tian Zhenglin , Yang Hui , Wen Hongjie
Published: July 2024

The integrated development of offshore platform and net cage is a significant concern in ocean engineering. To optimize cost-effectiveness and maximize the utilization of limited ocean space resources, a composite structure is proposed, which integrates a submersible net cage onto the steel pipe piles of offshore platform. Based on the OpenFOAM software package, a numerical model is developed to assess the hydrodynamic performance of this composite structure. In this model, the net cage is simplified as a closed box structure comprising six planar nets, with each planar net further represented as a porous structure based on equivalent resistance. The model is validated by comparing the predicted results with the relevant experimental and numerical data. Subsequently, the model is employed to comprehensively investigate the hydrodynamic performance of the submersible net cage integrated with an offshore platform. Velocity variations inside and outside the net cage are analyzed under various wave-current conditions. Additionally, the forces exerted on the steel pipe piles by the net cage at different submerged depths are also examined.
Temporal effect and evolution mechanism of sand-bentonite mixture liner swelling under the influence of sand and diesel
Authors: Chun Ye-yang , Liu Zhengquan , He Yong , Wei He , Su Dongpo
Published: July 2024

To elucidate the time-dependent swelling behavior of landfill sand-bentonite mixture liners under the effect of organic pollutants, an no loading swelling ratio test was conducted on mixtures with varying sand and diesel content. The evolution characteristics of the swelling time curve morphology were investigated. The micro-mechanisms underlying the swelling time effect evolution were explored. The results indicated that the sand-diesel interaction significantly altered the swelling time curve morphological characteristics of the mixture. As the sand content increased, the swelling coefficient at the stable state decreased. However, during the rapid swell phase, diesel-contaminated mixed soil does not exhibit the increase-then-decrease pattern in swell coefficient seen in unpolluted mixed soil. The duration of both the slow swelling phase and the time to reach a stable state were longer. Mechanistic analysis revealed that cation exchange capacity is insufficient to effectively analyze the evolution characteristics of the swelling time curve. Instead, the initial swelling potential of bentonite is the true indicator of the mixture’s swelling properties. The particle size distribution influences the changes in the swelling coefficient during the rapid swelling phase, but diesel alters the particle size distribution, mitigating its impact. The oil sealing effect within intra-aggregate and inter-aggregate pores not only weakened the swelling characteristics of the mixture at all stages but also increased the permeability resistance, thereby reducing the duration of the rapid swelling phase and extending the slow swelling and stable swelling phases.
Promising response of proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal IgG deposits to low-dose daratumumab: a case report
Authors: Xu Hongyao , Huang Yao , Dong Ling , Yu Hua , Lin Bo
Published: July 2024

Proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits (PGNMID) is a rare disease without standardized treatment modalities. Daratumumab is a human IgG monoclonal anti-CD38 antibody that has been demonstrated to be highly effective and safe in the treatment of PGNMID. This article reports a 66-year-old female who suffered from edema in both lower limbs and face for 6 years with mild proteinuria and hypoproteinemia. Renal biopsy displayed eight glomeruli, among which two presented with glomerulosclerosis, and the remaining six exhibited moderate diffuse hyperplasia of glomerular mesangial cells and stroma with endothelial cell proliferation. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed lumpy and diffuse deposits of C3, C1q, IgG, and κ light chain in the glomerular mesangium, with strongly positive staining for IgG3 and varying degrees of weak to negative staining for IgG1, IgG2, IgG4, and λ light chain. Additionally, ultrastructural analysis unveiled that the glomerular basement membrane was segmentally thickened, accompanied by diffuse pedicle fusion, segmental tethered insertion, subendothelial deposits, and electron-dense material in tethered areas. The patient received a total dose of 800 mg of daratumumab (400 mg daily for two consecutive days), as well as daily prednisone (25 mg) and valsartan (80 mg), for treatment and achieved complete remission after three-month follow-up. This case represents an early attempt to treat PGNMID with low-dose daratumumab but requires long-term follow-up.
Paired competing neurons improving STDP supervised local learning in Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Goupy Gaspard , Tirilly Pierre , Bilasco Ioan Marius
Published: July 2024

Direct training of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) on neuromorphic hardware has the potential to significantly reduce the energy consumption of artificial neural network training. SNNs trained with Spike Timing-Dependent Plasticity (STDP) benefit from gradient-free and unsupervised local learning, which can be easily implemented on ultra-low-power neuromorphic hardware. However, classification tasks cannot be performed solely with unsupervised STDP. In this paper, we propose Stabilized Supervised STDP (S2-STDP), a supervised STDP learning rule to train the classification layer of an SNN equipped with unsupervised STDP for feature extraction. S2-STDP integrates error-modulated weight updates that align neuron spikes with desired timestamps derived from the average firing time within the layer. Then, we introduce a training architecture called Paired Competing Neurons (PCN) to further enhance the learning capabilities of our classification layer trained with S2-STDP. PCN associates each class with paired neurons and encourages neuron specialization toward target or non-target samples through intra-class competition. We evaluate our methods on image recognition datasets, including MNIST, Fashion-MNIST, and CIFAR-10. Results show that our methods outperform state-of-the-art supervised STDP learning rules, for comparable architectures and numbers of neurons. Further analysis demonstrates that the use of PCN enhances the performance of S2-STDP, regardless of the hyperparameter set and without introducing any additional hyperparameters.
Decreasing the physical gap in the neural-electrode interface and related concepts to improve cochlear implant performance
Authors: Vecchi Joseph T. , Claussen Alexander D. , Hansen Marlan R.
Published: July 2024

Cochlear implants (CI) represent incredible devices that restore hearing perception for those with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss. However, the ability of a CI to restore complex auditory function is limited by the number of perceptually independent spectral channels provided. A major contributor to this limitation is the physical gap between the CI electrodes and the target spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). In order for CI electrodes to stimulate SGNs more precisely, and thus better approximate natural hearing, new methodologies need to be developed to decrease this gap, (i.e., transitioning CIs from a far-field to near-field device). In this review, strategies aimed at improving the neural-electrode interface are discussed in terms of the magnitude of impact they could have and the work needed to implement them. Ongoing research suggests current clinical efforts to limit the CI-related immune response holds great potential for improving device performance. This could eradicate the dense, fibrous capsule surrounding the electrode and enhance preservation of natural cochlear architecture, including SGNs. In the long term, however, optimized future devices will likely need to induce and guide the outgrowth of the peripheral process of SGNs to be in closer proximity to the CI electrode in order to better approximate natural hearing. This research is in its infancy; it remains to be seen which strategies (surface patterning, small molecule release, hydrogel coating, etc.) will be enable this approach. Additionally, these efforts aimed at optimizing CI function will likely translate to other neural prostheses, which face similar issues.
A dual target molecular magnetic resonance imaging probe for noninvasive profiling of pathologic alpha-synuclein and microgliosis in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sun Xianwei , Badachhape Andrew , Bhandari Prajwal , Chin Jeannie , Annapragada Ananth , Tanifum Eric
Published: July 2024

The pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by progressive deposition of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates in dopaminergic neurons and neuroinflammation. Noninvasive in vivo imaging of α-syn aggregate accumulation and neuroinflammation can elicit the underlying mechanisms involved in disease progression and facilitate the development of effective treatment as well as disease diagnosis and prognosis. Here we present a novel approach to simultaneously profile α-syn aggregation and reactive microgliosis in vivo, by targeting oligomeric α-syn in cerebrospinal fluid with nanoparticle bearing a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), contrast payload. In this proof-of-concept report we demonstrate, in vitro, that microglia and neuroblastoma cell lines internalize agglomerates formed by cross-linking the nanoparticles with oligomeric α-syn. Delayed in vivo MRI scans following intravenous administration of the nanoparticles in the M83 α-syn transgenic mouse line show statistically significant MR signal enhancement in test mice versus controls. The in vivo data were validated by ex-vivo immunohistochemical analysis which show strong correlation between in vivo MRI signal enhancement, Lewy pathology distribution, and microglia activity in the treated brain tissue. Furthermore, neuronal and microglial cells in brain tissue from treated mice display strong cytosolic signal originating from the nanoparticles, attributed to in vivo cell uptake of nanoparticle/oligomeric α-syn agglomerates.
Down syndrome and DYRK1A overexpression: relationships and future therapeutic directions
Authors: Murphy Aidan J. , Wilton Steve D. , Aung-Htut May T. , McIntosh Craig S.
Published: July 2024

Down syndrome is a genetic-based disorder that results from the triplication of chromosome 21, leading to an overexpression of many triplicated genes, including the gene encoding Dual-Specificity Tyrosine Phosphorylation-Regulated Kinase 1A (DYRK1A). This protein has been observed to regulate numerous cellular processes, including cell proliferation, cell functioning, differentiation, and apoptosis. Consequently, an overexpression of DYRK1A has been reported to result in cognitive impairment, a key phenotype of individuals with Down syndrome. Therefore, downregulating DYRK1A has been explored as a potential therapeutic strategy for Down syndrome, with promising results observed from in vivo mouse models and human clinical trials that administered epigallocatechin gallate. Current DYRK1A inhibitors target the protein function directly, which tends to exhibit low specificity and selectivity, making them unfeasible for clinical or research purposes. On the other hand, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) offer a more selective therapeutic strategy to downregulate DYRK1A expression at the gene transcript level. Advances in ASO research have led to the discovery of numerous chemical modifications that increase ASO potency, specificity, and stability. Recently, several ASOs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to address neuromuscular and neurological conditions, laying the foundation for future ASO therapeutics. The limitations of ASOs, including their high production cost and difficulty delivering to target tissues can be overcome by further advances in ASO design. DYRK1A targeted ASOs could be a viable therapeutic approach to improve the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Factors associated with vitamin D deficiency in health care workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Villasis-Keever Miguel Angel , Zurita-Cruz Jessie Nallely , Garduño-Espinosa Juan , López-Alarcón Mardya , Barradas Vázquez Aly Sugey , Miranda-Novales María Guadalupe , Parra-Ortega Israel , López-Martinez Briseida , García Heladia , Klünder-Klünder Miguel
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Globally, up to 76.6% of the population may be affected by vitamin D (VD) deficiency, which has been linked to increased morbidity and mortality from COVID-19. This underscores the importance of further research into VD supplementation, particularly for health care workers, who are at higher risk due to indoor work environments and dietary challenges associated with shift schedules.

Objective

This study aimed to identify factors associated with VD deficiency in Mexican health care workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2.

Materials and methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study from June 2020 to January 2021 among frontline health care workers treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Blood samples were collected to measure 25-hydroxy VD levels via radioimmunoassay. We also assessed previous COVID-19 infection and comorbidities that could influence VD levels.

Results

The study included 468 health care workers. The median serum VD concentration was 16.6 ng/mL. VD deficiency was found in 69.4% (n = 325) of participants, while only 5.1% (n = 24) had normal levels. Those with type 2 diabetes (13.3 ng/mL vs. 17.1 ng/mL) or obesity (15.7 ng/mL vs. 17.1 ng/mL) had significantly lower VD levels than their counterparts (p < 0.001 and p = 0.049, respectively). No significant differences were found among participants with high blood pressure. Multivariate analysis revealed that type 2 diabetes was independently associated with VD deficiency.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of VD deficiency among health care workers, which is potentially linked to both personal health factors and occupational conditions.
Mechanisms of Puerariae Lobatae Radix in regulating sebaceous gland secretion: insights from network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Yijie Du , Siqi Zhao , Ruiyin Huang , YuJing Shi , Hong Meng , Yinmao Dong , Tao Yang , Changyong Luo
Published: July 2024

Objective

This research aims to explore how Puerariae Lobatae Radix regulates sebaceous gland secretion using network pharmacology, and validate its effects on important targets through animal studies.

Methods

This study utilized UPLC-EQ-MS to analyze Puerariae Lobatae Radix extract and identify potential bioactive compounds. Predicted targets of these compounds were obtained from the Swiss Target Prediction database, while targets associated with sebaceous gland secretion were obtained from the GeneCards database. Common targets between the databases were identified and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established using the STRING platform. The PPI network was further analyzed using Cytoscape software. Pathway enrichment analysis was performed using Reactome, and molecular docking experiments targeted pivotal pathway proteins. Animal experiments were then conducted to validate the regulatory effects of the primary active compounds of Puerariae Lobatae Radix on key pathway proteins.

Results

This research identified 17 active compounds in Puerariae Lobatae Radix and 163 potential targets associated with the regulation of sebum secretion. Pathway enrichment analysis indicates that these targets may modulate lipid metabolism pathways through involvement in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, SREB, steroid metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways. Molecular docking analysis demonstrates that puerarin and daidzein show favorable binding interactions with key targets in these pathways. Animal experiments demonstrated that the administration of Puerariae Lobatae Radix resulted in a significant reduction in the area of sebaceous gland patches compared to the control group. Histological analysis revealed notable alterations in the structure of sebaceous glands, including reductions in size, thickness, and density. Furthermore, the expression levels of TG, DHT, and IL-6 were significantly decreased in the Puerariae Lobatae Radix group (p < 0.05), and immunoblotting indicated a significant decrease in the expression of PPARG and ACC1 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that Puerariae Lobatae Radix can regulate skin lipid metabolism by targeting multiple pathways. The primary mechanism involves inhibiting sebaceous gland growth and reducing TG secretion by modulating the expression of PPARG and ACC1. Puerarin and Daidzein are identified as key bioactive compounds responsible for this regulatory effect. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Puerariae Lobatae Radix in addressing sebaceous gland-related conditions.
Genome mining of WOX-ARF gene linkage in Machilus pauhoi underpinned cambial activity associated with IAA induction
Authors: Shen Mingli , Zhao Kai , Luo Xianmei , Guo Lingling , Ma Zhirui , Wen Lei , Lin Siqing , Lin Yingxuan , Sun Hongyan , Ahmad Sagheer
Published: July 2024

As an upright tree with multifunctional economic application, Machilus pauhoi is an excellent choice in modern forestry from Lauraceae. The growth characteristics is of great significance for its molecular breeding and improvement. However, there still lack the information of WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) and Auxin response factor (ARF) gene family, which were reported as specific transcription factors in plant growth as well as auxin signaling. Here, a total of sixteen MpWOX and twenty-one MpARF genes were identified from the genome of M. pauhoi. Though member of WOX conserved in the Lauraceae, MpWOX and MpARF genes were unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes as a result of region duplication. These genes presented 45 and 142 miRNA editing sites, respectively, reflecting a potential post-transcriptional restrain. Overall, MpWOX4, MpWOX13a, MpWOX13b, MpARF6b, MpARF6c, and MpARF19a were highly co-expressed in the vascular cambium, forming a working mode as WOX-ARF complex. MpWOXs contains typical AuxRR-core and TGA-element cis-acting regulatory elements in this auxin signaling linkage. In addition, under IAA and NPA treatments, MpARF2a and MpWOX1a was highly sensitive to IAA response, showing significant changes after 6 hours of treatment. And MpWOX1a was significantly inhibited by NPA treatment. Through all these solid analysis, our findings provide a genetic foundation to growth mechanism analysis and further molecular designing breeding in Machilus pauhoi.
Theory of mind skills and peer relationships in children’s adjustment to preschool
Authors: Ünlüer Esra
Published: July 2024

School adjustment affects children’s future lives in many ways. This study examined the relationship between ToM skills, peer relationships, and school adjustment. Specifically, this study determined whether preschool children’s school adjustment could be significantly predicted by theory of mind (ToM) skills and peer relationships. A total of 164 children aged 4 (34.5%), and 5 (38%) years of preschool attendance participated in the study. According to the research, children’s age, theory of mind, peer relations, and school adjustment are closely related. It was also found that the theory of mind significantly predicted school adjustment (school liking/avoidance) and that prosocial and aggressive behavior predicted school liking.
Cross-sectional survey to determine fatigue in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lu Jingya , Yu Minmin , Xu Rong
Published: July 2024

Background

Fatigue is a prevalent symptom among individuals with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We aimed to investigate the status quo and influencing factors of fatigue in patients with SLE, to provide insights to the clinical SLE treatment and care.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal survey on the fatigue of active SLE patients from June 2022 to November 2023 in our hospital. Fatigue severity scale (FSS), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used for data collection. Pearson correlation and multiple stepwise regression analysis were conducted to analyze the relevant factors affecting the fatigue level of patients with SLE.

Results

A total of 212 active SLE patients were included, the incidence of fatigue in active SLE patients was 55.66%. There were statistical differences in the fatigue score between SLE patients with different age and course of SLE (all p < 0.05). Fatigue was positively correlated with anxiety (r = 0.559) and depression (r = 0.591) in patients with SLE (all p < 0.05). Multiple stepwise regression analysis indicated that age, course of SLE, anxiety and depression were the influencing factors of fatigue in SLE patients (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with SLE exhibit a significant degree of fatigue, which varies with respect to age, disease duration, and the presence of comorbid anxiety and depression. It is imperative that healthcare providers closely monitor the fatigue levels in this patient population and implement targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of fatigue on the quality of life and overall well-being of individuals with SLE.
The Chilean exposome-based system for ecosystems (CHiESS): a framework for national data integration and analytics platform
Authors: Matus Patricia , Sepúlveda-Peñaloza Alejandro , Page Keneth , Rodríguez Claudia , Cárcamo Marcela , Bustamante Francisco , Garrido Marcela , Urquidi Cinthya
Published: July 2024

The double burden of diseases and scarce resources in developing countries highlight the need to change the conceptualization of health problems and translational research. Contrary to the traditional paradigm focused on genetics, the exposome paradigm proposed in 2005 that complements the genome is an innovative theory. It involves a holistic approach to understanding the complexity of the interactions between the human being’s environment throughout their life and health. This paper outlines a scalable framework for exposome research, integrating diverse data sources for comprehensive public health surveillance and policy support. The Chilean exposome-based system for ecosystems (CHiESS) project proposes a conceptual model based on the ecological and One Health approaches, and the development of a technological dynamic platform for exposome research, which leverages available administrative data routinely collected by national agencies, in clinical records, and by biobanks. CHiESS considers a multilevel exposure for exposome operationalization, including the ecosystem, community, population, and individual levels. CHiESS will include four consecutive stages for development into an informatic platform: (1) environmental data integration and harmonization system, (2) clinical and omics data integration, (3) advanced analytical algorithm development, and (4) visualization interface development and targeted population-based cohort recruitment. The CHiESS platform aims to integrate and harmonize available secondary administrative data and provide a complete geospatial mapping of the external exposome. Additionally, it aims to analyze complex interactions between environmental stressors of the ecosystem and molecular processes of the human being and their effect on human health. Moreover, by identifying exposome-based hotspots, CHiESS allows the targeted and efficient recruitment of population-based cohorts for translational research and impact evaluation. Utilizing advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, this framework enhances data security, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics. The CHiESS model is adaptable for international use, promoting global health collaboration and supporting sustainable development goals.
Prognosis of patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness after brain injury: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Yan Dong , Simei Liu , Hongzhao Bai , Hongyan Du , Yuchao Ding
Published: July 2024

Background

The findings regarding the prognosis of prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDOC) vary widely among different studies. This study aims to investigate the mortality, consciousness recovery and disabilities of patients with PDOC after brain injury.

Methods

A total of 204 patients with PDOC were included in a longitudinal cohort study, including 129 males and 75 females. There were 112 cases of traumatic brain injury (TBI), 62 cases of cerebral hemorrhage (CH), 13 cases of cerebral infarction (CI) and 17 cases of ischemic hypoxic encephalopathy (IHE). The status of consciousness at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 months of the disease course was assessed or followed up using the Revised Coma Recovery Scale (CRS-R). If the patients were conscious, the disability Rating Scale (DRS) was also performed. The prognosis of different PDOC including coma, vegetative state (VS) and minimal conscious state (MCS) was analyzed. The survival patients were screened for variables and included in multivariate binary Logistic regression to screen the factors affecting the recovery of consciousness.

Results

The mortality rates at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months were 10.7, 23.4, 38.9, and 68.4%, respectively. The median time of death was 18 months (8.75, 29). The probability of MCS regaining consciousness was higher than VS (p < 0.05), with the degree of disability left lower than VS (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between MCS− and MCS+ groups in terms of the probability of regaining consciousness, the extent of residual disability, and mortality rates (p > 0.05). The mortality rate of coma was higher than that of other PDOC (p < 0.05). The mortality rate of MCS was lower than that of VS, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The probability of consciousness recovery after TBI was the highest and the mortality rate was the lowest. The possibility of consciousness recovery in IHE was the least, and the mortality rate of CI was the highest. The cause of brain injury and initial CRS-R score were the factors affecting the consciousness recovery of patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The prognosis of MCS is more favorable than VS, with comparable outcomes between MCS− and MCS+, while comatose patients was the poorest. TBI has the best prognosis and IHE has the worst prognosis.
Detecting sexually transmitted infections beyond the syndromic approach: lessons from a rural setting in Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Gonzalez Susan , Lopez Velasco Petra Natalia , Mena Antonio Carlos Adolfo , Palazuelos Daniel
Published: July 2024

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a critical global health concern, with low- and middle-income countries carrying the highest burden. The development of rapid point-of-care STI tests has enabled screening in settings without laboratory access. Yet, high-need settings face unique challenges that may influence the implementation and uptake of STI screening. This piece discusses lessons learned from the implementation of STI screening in a rural, low-resource setting in Chiapas, Mexico. Despite minimal privacy and a low staff-to-patient ratio, a streamlined approach was developed to destigmatize and maximize STI screening. The clinic team developed strategies through practice, including incorporating screening into triage procedures and offering screening to family members. This protocol led to an average screening rate of 37% within three months and acceptance of screening by family units. It was observed that access to treatment was necessary to alleviate patient hesitation to screening due to fears of a positive result. As STI screening increases globally, healthcare systems must develop robust access to treatment to effectively prevent and treat STIs worldwide.
Microplastics and cadmium pollution in Chinese sweet potato fields
Authors: Shi Liang , Xu Yuan , Chen Zanming , Liu Binhao , Hou Yanan , Li Jianmin , Dang Fei , Wang Yujun , Shen Zhenguo , Yang Jinghui , Chen Yahua
Published: July 2024

Context and background

Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals (HMs) coexist in the farmland of China.

Motivation

It still remains unclear the extent of their exposure and distribution in sweet potato fields.

Hypothesis

Polyethylene (PE) or polyamide (PA) is the main MP pollutant in contaminated sweet potato sites, and the MP abundance in low-latitude and eastern areas is highest. Methods: In this study, saturated NaCl solution, a stereo microscope, a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and an electrothermal digester are used for the extraction, observation, identification of MPs, and analysis of Cd elements in soil, respectively.

Methods

In this study, saturated NaCl solution, a stereo microscope, a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and an electrothermal digester are used for the extraction, observation, identification of MPs, and analysis of Cd elements in soil, respectively.

Results

Here, we found an average MP level of 112,400 items/kg in 30 sweet potato field sites based on the items in 5 g soil and the magnification (200x), and the maximum abundance was 197,153 items/kg in Laiyang city, Shandong province, by field survey. The distribution characteristics of MPs are middle-latitude areas < low-latitude areas, and eastern areas > central areas. Most MPs are of the fragment and film shape, which account for 47.96 and 40.22%, respectively. In order to detect MP polymers in three cities named “Liancheng,” “Huanggang,” and “Laiyang” with different degrees of development, a laser infrared imaging system was used as a novel instrument to explore the MPs larger than 10 μm.

Conclusion

The results showed that PA is the main MP pollutant in contaminated sweet potato sites, and soil texture, planting time, and urbanization processes may be the main factors affecting MP distribution. The average cadmium (Cd) concentration in 215 field sites is 0.15 mg/kg, and the local Cd pollution is existing, but the overall pollution is low. In addition, Cd concentration was negatively correlated with MP abundance. This study reveals the status of MP and also Cd pollution in sweet potato fields, which provides a theoretical basis for the safe production and utilization of sweet potato fields.
Analysis of Runs of Homozygosity in Aberdeen Angus Cattle
Authors: Kolpakov Vladimir , Ruchay Alexey , Kosyan Dianna , Bukareva Elena
Published: July 2024

A large number of cattle breeds have marked phenotypic differences. They are valuable models for studying genome evolution. ROH analysis can facilitate the discovery of genomic regions that may explain phenotypic differences between breeds affecting traits of economic importance. This paper investigates genome-wide ROH of 189 Aberdeen Angus bulls using the Illumina Bovine GGP HD Beadchip150K to structurally and functionally annotate genes located within or in close ROH of the Aberdeen Angus cattle genome. The method of sequential SNP detection was used to determine the ROH. Based on this parameter, two ROH classes were allocated. The total length of all ROH islands was 11,493 Mb. As a result of studying the genomic architecture of the experimental population of Aberdeen Angus bulls, nine ROH islands and 255 SNPs were identified. Thirteen of these overlapped with regions bearing ‘selection imprints’ previously identified in other breeds of cattle, and five of these regions were identified in other Aberdeen Angus populations. The total length of the ROH islands was 11,493 Mb. The size of individual islands ranged from 0.038 to 1.812 Mb. Structural annotation showed the presence of 87 genes within the identified ROH islets.
Toward Transparency on Animal Experimentation in Switzerland: Seven Recommendations for the Provision of Public Information in Swiss Law
Authors: Lüthi Nicole , Rodriguez Perez Christian , Persson Kirsten , Elger Bernice Simone , Shaw David
Published: July 2024

In Switzerland, the importance of transparency in animal experimentation is emphasized by the Swiss Federal Council, recognizing the public’s great interest in this matter. Federal reporting on animal experimentation indicates a total of 585,991 animals used in experiments in Switzerland in 2022. By Swiss law, the report enables the public to learn about many aspects such as the species and degree of suffering experienced by the animals, but some information of interest to the public is missing, such as the fate of the animals at the end of the experiment (e.g., euthanized, rehomed in a private home, reused in another experiment). When it comes to animals bred in facilities but not used in experiments, further information of interest is not required to be made public according to Swiss law, for example, the number and fate of “surplus” animals (i.e., animals bred but not used in experiments for a variety of reasons such as not carrying the phenotypical properties needed). Considering that the Swiss government has a duty to provide a full accounting of animal experimentation conducted on the public’s behalf, further relevant information should be disclosed. While efforts toward transparency, such as the STAAR Agreement, have been made in the scientific community, these mostly reflect the legal requirements already in force. If Switzerland is to move toward more transparency in public information on animal experimentation, an update of the legal requirements is needed. In this article, we give recommendations for Swiss law to move toward more transparency in public information on seven aspects: (1) the fate of the animals at the end of the experiment; (2) the sources of funding for animal experimentation; (3) the harm-benefit analysis performed by researchers and ethics committees to justify an experiment using animals; (4) the number of breeding/surplus animals; (5) the fate of breeding/surplus animals; (6) the harms experienced by animals in facilities; and (7) the funding of animal facilities.
Tree-Climbing Behavior of a Forest-Dwelling Ungulate: The Formosan Serow
Authors: Takada Hayato , Sun Nick Ching-Min , Liang Yu-Jen , Liu Jen-Hao , Liu Ching-Kuo , Pei Kurtis Jai-Chyi
Published: July 2024

Ungulates are terrestrial herbivores, basically adapted to running fast on the ground; tree-climbing behavior has been reported only in seven species, and five of them live in open habitats (Capra hircus, C. aegagrus, C. falconeri, C. cylindricornis, Oreotragus oreotragus). Tree-climbing behavior may also be evolved in ungulates inhabiting dense forests with abundant trees; however, this has rarely been reported in such species (Moschus leucogaster, M. moschiferus), probably due to the difficulty of observing in the wild. The numerous publicly available records in social networks hold potentially valuable information on the atypical behaviors of wild ungulates. Here, we explored the tree-climbing behavior of a forest-dwelling ungulate, the Formosan serow in Taiwan, a subtropical island, by extracting information from online social media platforms. We researched images and videos of Formosan serows through Facebook and YouTube and collected a total of 15 tree-climbing events. In these materials, Formosan serows climbed 10 tree species, including evergreen coniferous and broad-leaved trees, and a variety of parts, ranging in height from 0.6 to 4 m, and from branches of shrubs to trunks of tall trees. Tree-climbing behavior was recorded throughout Taiwan and from lowlands to subalpine zones, suggesting that tree climbing may be a common behavior in this species. Foraging while climbing trees was frequently observed (53.3%), suggesting that the purpose or benefit for climbing is to obtain additional food other than plants growing near the ground surface. In contrast to other tree-climbing ungulates, Formosan serows climbed trees not only in winter, but also in other seasons, when food is relatively abundant. This is the first scientific report of tree-climbing behavior in the Formosan serow that is typically a forest dweller.
Aerodynamic Analysis of Fixed-Wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Moving in Swarm
Authors: İnan Ahmet Talat , Ceylan Mustafa
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a close-formation flight of two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the aim of the study is to improve the understanding of the vortex effects between fixed-wing UAVs in a swarm using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. To validate the numerical method, results of a variable-density wind tunnel test from the literature were used. This numerical CFD analysis was used to determine the lift coefficient (CL) and the drag coefficient (CD) values for a single UAV at various angles of attack. When examining the aerodynamic impact areas behind the UAV, the longitudinal distance between the two UAVs is not particularly effective for close flight. Therefore, CFD analyses were carried out on the two UAVs for both vertical and lateral distances. The optimum position for close-formation flight was identified using CL/CD ratios. The results of the analysis indicate that the most effective flights, across all lateral positions, occur when the two UAVs are vertically at the same height. In terms of aerodynamic efficiency, the most effective points for close-formation flight for wingspan b are at lateral distances of 0.875 b and 1 b. At these positions, flight efficiency can be increased by approximately 11.5%.