bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Acute Enriched Environment Exposure on Brain Oscillations and Activation of the Translation Initiation Factor 4E-BPs at Synapses across Wake and Sleep in Rats
Authors: Santos José Lucas , Petsidou Evlalia , Saraogi Pallavi , Bartsch Ullrich , Gerber André P , Seibt Julie
Published: August 2023

Brain plasticity is induced by learning during wakefulness and is consolidated during sleep. But the molecular mechanisms involved are poorly understood and their relation to experience-dependent changes in brain activity remains to be clarified. Localized mRNA translation is im-portant for the structural changes at synapses supporting brain plasticity consolidation. Sleep has been shown activate the translation mTOR pathway, via phosphorylation of 4E-BPs, during brain plasticity, but whether this activation is specific to synapses is not known. We investigated this question using acute exposure of rats to an enriched environment (EE). We measured brain activity with EEGs and 4E-BPs phosphorylation at cortical and cerebellar synapses with Western Blot. Sleep significantly increased the conversion of 4E-BPs to its hyperphosphorylated form at synapses, especially after EE exposure. EE exposure increased oscillations in the alpha band dur-ing active exploration and in the theta to beta (4-30Hz) range, as well as spindle density, during NREM sleep. Theta activity during exploration and NREM spindle frequency predicted changes in 4E-BPs hyperphosphorylation at synapses. Our results provide a link between EEG and mo-lecular markers of plasticity across wake and sleep.
Salvage of a Fractured Proximal Ulnar Osteoarticular Allograft Using a Medial Femoral Condyle Free Flap
Authors: Hoftiezer Yannick Albert J. , Posada Alvarez Carolina , Werenski Joseph O. , Schreuder H.W.B. , Eberlin Kyle R. , Lee Sang-Gil , Lozano-Calderón Santiago A.
Published: August 2023

Case:

We present the case of a 47-year-old paraplegic woman who underwent resection of an intermediate-grade chondrosarcoma in the proximal ulna, which was initially reconstructed with an osteoarticular allograft. However, after more than 25 years without complications, she sustained an intra-articular fracture of the allograft, which was then successfully treated using a vascularized medial femoral condyle (MFC) flap and anterolateral thigh flap. The patient has subsequently recovered her baseline elbow function, has no pain, and can use her wheelchair without restrictions.

Conclusion:

Free MFC flaps are viable options to salvage osteoarticular allografts that are affected by intra-articular fractures.
A neural network classifier for detecting diabetic retinopathy from retinal images
Authors: Lukashevich M. M.
Published: August 2023

With the spread of diabetes mellitus, diabetic retinopathy (DR) is becoming a major public health problem (especially in developing countries). The long-term complications resulting from DR have a significant impact on patients. Early diagnosis and subsequent treatment can reduce the damage to health. Predictive analytics can be based on the analysis of human retinal images using convolutional neural networks. In this paper, the research focuses on the development of an efficient method for DR detection based on the EfficientNet convolutional neural network, self-learning technology and data augmentation operations. As a result of the experiments, a neural network classifier based on convolutional neural networks is developed, recommendations for data augmentation operations are given. Experiments were performed on the public dataset and showed that it is possible to achieve the proportion of correctly classified objects equal to 97.14 % on the test set from the public dataset.
A polifonia bakhtiniana e a sociossemiótica em Grande Sertão: Veredas
Authors: Santos Daniela
Published: August 2023

Mikhail Bakhtin criou o conceito de polifonia – uma metáfora vinda da teoria musical – para designar romances em que a ação representa a vida no seu fluir vasto, lento e profundo. Bakhtin não fez uma súmula de seus conceitos, de modo que a polifonia ainda não é bem definida, causando divergências e mal-entendidos entre seus estudiosos. Dessa forma, nosso objetivo é operacionalizar o conceito, mostrando-o como um fazer-sentir do enunciatário, além disso, expondo como pode ser aplicável em outros romances, não apenas nos de Dostoievski – ou seja, tornando-o aplicável e repetível. Para isso, nosso corpus será o romance de João Guimarães Rosa Grande Sertão: Veredas. Em um primeiro momento, demonstraremos que Grande Sertão é um romance polifônico a partir de um diálogo velado entre Riobaldo e seu interlocutário (“o senhor”). O romance em pauta carrega a síntese do gênero sob a perspectiva do filósofo russo: os problemas e as contradições desta vida não se resolvem, são irremediavelmente contraditórios, o universo de sentido é plural, a construção semiótica dos atores é, antes de qualquer coisa, a representação de consciências plurais, nunca de um “eu” único, mas produto da interação de muitas consciências, dotadas de valores próprios, que interagem ao longo da narrativa, preenchendo, com suas vozes, as lacunas deixadas no enunciado de seus interlocutores. Em um segundo momento, buscaremos demonstrar como a polifonia está, também, adensada no ator do enunciado Riobaldo. Isso será feito na medida em que ele se apresenta na ordem do inacabamento actorial, sendo fundamental, para a noção de ator, as bases teóricas oferecidas pela semiótica discursiva (GREIMAS; COURTÉS, 2020). Por fim, nosso objetivo final é demonstrar como essas lacunas, de acordo com as teorias de Eric Landowski (2014a), levam o enunciatário roseano a deslizar para os eixos do ajustamento e acidente.
Padrões de nominalização em línguas da família Arawák
Authors: Miranda Camille Cardoso
Published: August 2023

A nominalização é um processo de aquisição de propriedades nominais que se aplica ao nível semântico, morfológico e sintático (SERRANO, no prelo). Esse fenômeno significa em sua essência tornar “algo” em um nome (COMRIE; THOMPSON, 2007). Assim, ela faz com que um verbo ou outras classes gramaticais se transformem em nomes. O presente artigo tem como objetivo descrever esse processo em algumas línguas da família Arawák. Selecionamos as línguas de acordo com o agrupamento de Aikhenvald (1999), que divide as línguas dessa família em dois grupos: Norte-Arawák e Sul-Arawák. Assim, analisamos quatro línguas do grupo Norte-Arawák (Baniwa de Içana, Tariana, Lokono, Wapixana) e quatro línguas do grupo Sul-Arawák (Apurinã, Ashéninka Perene, Baure e Mehináku). A escolha dessas línguas se deve ao fato de que tal fenômeno é um processo derivacional produtivo entre elas. O foco é verificar a nominalização de verbos. Como resultado, as línguas de análise exibem a nominalização de estado ou ação; (ii) participativa (agentiva/paciente); (iii) instrumental e (iv) locativa. Entre esses quatro tipos, verificamos que a nominalização de ação/estado e participativa (agentiva) são mais predominantes, enquanto a locativa é a menos comum.
Os vários usos de "mesmo" no português brasieiro dos séculos XVIII, XIX e XX
Authors: Pezatti Erotilde Goreti , Teixeira Peres Ana Carolina
Published: August 2023

Este estudo investiga o uso de mesmo no português brasileiro, nos séculos XVIII, XIX e XX. A proposta consiste em verificar, na história recente do português, a persistência ou não da multifuncionalidade desse item. Para tanto, toma como universo de pesquisa cartas particulares e cartas oficiais extraídas do córpus do Projeto para a História do Português Brasileiro (https://sites.google.com/site/corporaphpb), e, como suporte teórico, a Gramática Discursivo-Funcional, desenvolvida por Hengeveld e Mackenzie (2008). Os resultados mostram que os cinco diferentes usos (operador de ênfase, função pragmática Contraste, operador de identidade idêntica, núcleo anafórico e modificador de propriedade configuracional), detectados por Peres (2020), já existiam desde o século XVIII e permaneceram no decorrer dos séculos XIX e XX. Além disso, não houve alteração substancial nos usos de mesmo e não sofreram alteração na forma de codificação no decorrer dos três séculos. O que este estudo revela é que alguns usos estão em decréscimo e outros em ascendência, apontando para um processo de gramaticalização.
Cholesterol modulates type I-type II TGF-β receptor complexes and alters the balance between Smad and Akt signaling in hepatocytes
Authors: Chaudhary Roohi , Goodman Laureen , Wang Sai , Asimakopoulo Anastasia , Weiskirchen Ralf , Dooley Steven , Ehrlich Marcelo , Henis Yoav
Published: August 2023

Cholesterol mediates membrane compartmentalization, affecting signaling via differential distribution of receptors and signaling mediators. While excessive cholesterol and aberrant transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling characterize multiple liver diseases, their linkage to canonical vs. non-canonical TGF-β signaling remained unclear. Here, we subjected murine hepatocytes to cholesterol depletion (CD) or enrichment (CE), followed by biophysical studies on TGF-β receptor heterocomplex formation, and output to Smad2/3 vs. Akt pathways. Prior to ligand addition, raft-dependent preformed heteromeric receptor complexes were observed. Smad2/3 phosphorylation persisted following CD or CE. CD enhanced phospho-Akt (pAkt) formation by TGF-β or epidermal growth factor (EGF) at 5 min, while reducing it at later time points. Conversely, pAkt formation by TGF-β or EGF was inhibited by CE, suggesting a direct effect on the Akt pathway. The modulation of the balance between TGF-β signaling to Smad2/3 vs. pAkt (by TGF-β or EGF) has potential implications for hepatic diseases and malignancies.
BTHAAT: A Blockchain-based Traceable Hybrid-Anonymity Authentication Technique for Data Middle Platform in Industry 4.0
Authors: Chen Chuqiao , Goyal S. B. , Rajawat Anand Singh , Senthil P.
Published: August 2023

There is currently a growing concern about the preservation of individual privacy, particularly in the context of the increasing usage of Big Data technologies, such as the Data Middle Platform. As such, the question of how to enhance privacy and security has become a primary concern in today's world of Industry 4.0. In this article, we review related literature on the security and privacy challenges of the Data Middle Platform, and explore the use of Blockchain and zero-knowledge proof theories for authentication. We propose an algorithm that combines k-anonymity, homomorphic encryption, blockchain, and zero-knowledge proof for traceable authentication technology, and demonstrate its feasibility in the laboratory. Our experimental results verify the efficacy of the algorithm. As the algorithm is intended for industrial use, we compare and discuss it with existing authentication techniques in the penultimate section. Finally, we conclude our work and highlight directions for future research.
A Cross-Device Ensemble Learning Model for Continuous Cognition Assessment Based on Resting-State EEG
Authors: Lu Bai , Sun Jingnan , Sun Yike , Shen Anruo , Li Yunxia , Gao Xiaorong
Published: August 2023

One critical manifestation of neurological deterioration is the sign of cognitive decline. Causes of cognitive decline include but are not limited to: aging, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, and trauma. Currently, the primary tool used to examine cognitive decline is scale. However, scale examination has drawbacks such as its clinician subjectivity and inconsistent results. This study attempted to use resting-state EEG to construct a cognitive assessment model that is capable of providing a more scientific and robust evaluation on cognition levels. In this study, 75 healthy subjects, 99 patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and 78 patients with dementia were involved. Their resting-state EEG signlas were collected twice, and the recording devices varied. By matching these EEG and traditional scale results, the proposed cognition assessment model was trained based on Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost) and Support Vector Machines (SVM) methods, mapping subjects' cognitive levels to a 0-100 test score with a mean error of 4.82 (< 5%). This study is the first to establish a continuous evaluation model of cognitive decline on a large sample dataset. Its cross-device usability also suggests universality and robustness of this EEG model, offering a more reliable and affordable way to assess cognitive decline for clinical diagnosis and treatment as well. Furthermore, the interpretability of features involved may further contribute to the early diagnosis and superior treatment evaluation of Alzheimer's disease.
A Methodological Review of Randomised n-of-1 Trials.
Authors: Hawksworth Olivia , Chatters Robin , Julious Steven A , Cook Andrew , Biggs Katie , Solaiman Kiera
Published: August 2023

Background
n-of-1 trials are a type of crossover trial designed to optimise the evaluation of health technologies in individual patients. This trial design may be considered for the evaluation of health technologies in rare conditions where fewer patients are available to take part in research. This review describes the characteristics of randomised n-of-1 trials conducted over the span of a decade, including how the n-of-1 design has been employed to study both rare and non-rare conditions.
Methods
Databases and clinical trials registries were searched for articles including “n-of-1” in the title between 1st January 2011 and 5th May 2021. Randomised n-of-1 trials were selected for inclusion and data were extracted on a range of design, population, and analysis characteristics. Descriptive statistics were produced for all variables.
Results
We identified 52 studies meeting our eligibility criteria, eight of which (15.4%) were conducted in rare conditions. They were conducted in a range of clinical areas with the most common being neuropsychiatric conditions (n = 16, 30.8). The median (interquartile range, IQR) number of participants randomised was 10 (1–20) and 11 trials (21.2%) involved a single patient only. 35 (67.3%) trials evaluated drug interventions and 38 (73.1%) trials were placebo controlled. Trials had a median (IQR) of six (5–8) periods and compared a median (IQR) of two (2–2) health technologies. 41 (78.8%) trials incorporated blinding and 23 (44.3%) had a washout period. 37 trials (71.2%) used patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) to assess the primary outcome. Trials used a range of approaches to analysis and 32 (61.5%) combined data from multiple patients. The characteristics of the n-of-1 trials conducted in rare conditions were generally consistent with those in non-rare conditions.
Conclusions
Our review has summarised the characteristics of randomised n-of-1 trials in rare and non-rare conditions. We hope that it can inform researchers in the design of future n-of-1 studies. Further work is required to provide guidance on specific design considerations and the implementation of these studies.
Registration:
Not applicable.
Migraine Is Associated with the Development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study
Authors: Lee Chan Hyung , Han Kyungdo , Lee Hyun Jung , Yu Hosun , Kim Seulji , Choi Kookhwan , Koh Seong-Joon , Im Jong Pil , Kim Joo Sung
Published: August 2023

Background: It has been reported that migraine is more common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than in general. However, the impact of migraine on the development of IBD has not yet been elucidated. The aim of this study was to determine the association between migraine and the development of IBD.
Methods: This nationwide population-based cohort study was conducted using the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database. A total of 10,628,070 people aged 20 years or older who had undergone a national health examination conducted by the NHIS in 2009 were followed up until 2017. The study population was divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of migraine. We analyzed the incidence of newly developed IBD, Crohn’s disease (CD), or ulcerative colitis (UC) during the follow-up period.
Results: The incidence of IBD was significantly higher in patients with migraine (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] with 95% confidence interval [95%CI] of 1.31 [1.173–1.468], p <0.001), CD (aHR with 95%CI of 1.58 [1.237–2.013], p <0.001) and UC (aHR with 95%CI of 1.26 [1.106–1.424], p<0.001) than in those without migraine. After 5 years of follow-up, those with migraine showed curves implying cumulative incidences of IBD with a steep increase, especially for CD. In subgroup analysis, migraine was associated with the risk of UC in males (aHR, 1.431 vs. 1.117; interaction p = 0.042).
Conclusions: Migraine is significantly associated with the development of IBD. Patients with migraine should be monitored carefully for the development of IBD.
Functional contribution of glutamatergic neurons of medullary reticular nuclei to locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury
Authors: Bretzner Frederic , Lemieux Maxime , Karimi Narges
Published: August 2023

Spinal cord injury (SCI) disrupts the descending drive from the brain and causes a range of deficits. We have investigated the functional plasticity of the glutamatergic reticulospinal drive of the medullary reticular formation (MRF) after a lateral thoracic hemisection in mice. The excitatory descending drive was impaired after SCI, independently of its origin. The direction of functional plasticity was anti-correlated with its pre-injury efficacy. Stimulation of sites in the most dorsal MRF decelerated or stopped locomotion, whereas the most ventral sites increased speed. The ability to steer was preserved with modest impairment. Activating the descending MRF drive improved stepping ability of chronically impaired SCI mice and its conditioning improved recovery of skilled locomotion. These results highlight the resilience and capacity for reorganization of the glutamatergic reticulospinal command after SCI, along with its suitability as a therapeutical target to promote functional recovery.
The effects of anti-ageing mono- and bipolar radiofrequency treatment on the self-esteem of pre-menopausal and menopausal women
Authors: Skalska-Stochaj Agata , Grochowalska Alina , Hojan-Jezierska Dorota , Kubisz Leszek
Published: August 2023

The study attempted to address the issue whether undergoing procedures radiofrequency results in positive changes in the assessment of their own appearance in women between the ages of 40 and 69. The aim of the survey was to determine whether the procedure, mono- and bipolar radiofrequency, applied to the skin of the face, can increase women's self-esteem. A subjective evaluation was performed to determine the actual persistence of a 4-month monopolar (RFM) and bipolar (RFB) radiofrequency treatment in the selected age groups. The study included 90 women reporting good general health, with a clinically healthy skin. The study population was divided into two groups, and the allocation to groups was randomized. The RFM method involved a group of 45 women receiving monopolar radiofrequency therapy, in which the following age groups were distinguished (15 women): I 40–49 years of age, II 50–59 y.o.a., III 60–69 y.o.a.. The RFB method comprised a group of 45 women who were subject to bipolar radiofrequency, and the participants were divided into the following age groups (15 women): I 40–49 years of age, II 50–59 y.o.a., III 60–69 y.o.a. The response rate was 100%. The study was aimed at indicating an important aspect of women's self-esteem.
Racial and Survival Disparities in Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) and non-IBC: A Population-Based Study Focused on Native Hawaiians and Other Pacific Islanders
Authors: Yoshikawa Gene , Miyazaki Kyle , Acoba Jared , Fujii Takeo
Published: August 2023

Background
Breast cancer has the highest incidence among all malignancies and is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. It is well known that race is an independent predictor of breast cancer mortality and advanced stage at diagnosis. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer and has distinct clinical and biological features. Previous studies have shown that Blacks have a higher incidence of IBC than Whites. However, the proportion of IBC and the role of race on prognosis in Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NH/PI) populations with breast cancer are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to examine the proportion of IBC to non-IBC in NH/PIs and to identify the clinicopathological, biological, and socioeconomic factors associated with the overall survival of NH/PIs compared to other races.
Methods
Utilizing a comprehensive cancer registry from the largest hospital in Hawaii, newly diagnosed primary invasive breast cancer patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2018 were identified. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to test the association between race and clinical outcomes. Variables with P-values <0.05 in the univariate analysis and race (variable of interest) were included in a multivariate analysis.
Results
The cohort included 3691 patients, 60 of whom had IBC. NH/PI race had the highest proportion of IBC compared to other races (3.44%) but was not found to be an independent poor prognostic factor in IBC (HR 1.17 [95%CI 0.26-5.22]). Conversely, NH/PI race was associated with worse survival outcomes in patients with non-IBC (HR 1.65 [95%CI, 1.14-2.39]) along with other factors such as lack of insurance, underinsured status, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype, age, and advanced clinical stage.
Conclusions
The findings of this study highlight that NH/PIs had higher rates of IBC and inferior survival in non-IBC compared to other races but not in IBC. It is essential to disaggregate NH/PI race from Asians in future population-based research studies. Further research is needed to understand the factors contributing to higher rates of IBC and poor survival outcomes in NH/PIs with non-IBC as well as targeted interventions to improve breast cancer outcomes in this population to ultimately help improve survival rates and reduce health inequities in NH/PIs with breast cancer.
Estimating the Cure Proportion in Stage IA Lung Adenocarcinoma: A population-based study
Authors: Huang Zhixin , Chen Dinghang , Hong Zhinuan , Kang Mingqiang
Published: August 2023

Objectives Using a mixed cure model, this study aimed to investigate factors influencing the cure, recurrence, and metastasis of stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. Materials and Methods A total of 1,064 patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic pneumonectomy were included. Variable screening was performed using the random forest algorithm and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The mixed cure model was used to identify factors affecting patient cure and survival, and a sequential analysis was performed on 5%, 10%, and 20% of the presentational subtype simultaneously. The receiver operating characteristic was used to explore the best model and to construct a nomogram for predicting cure rate. Results The median follow-up was 58 (range: 3–115) months. Results from the cure part of the mixed model indicated that the predominant subtype, presentational subtype, and tumor diameter were prognostic factors affecting the patients' cure rate. Based on these factors, a nomogram was constructed to predict the cure rate. The survival part indicated that the predominant subtype was the only factor influencing patients' recurrence and metastasis. A sequential analysis of the presentational subtype showed no significant effect on survival (P > 0.05). Regardless of the recording mode, no significant improvement was observed in the model's discriminative ability. Only a few postoperative pathological specimens showed lymphovascular invasion (LVI); however, the survival curve suggested a significant effect on patient survival. Conclusion After excluding the existence of long-term survivors, the predominant subtype was the only factor influencing patient recurrence and metastasis. Although LVI is rare in stage IA, its significance for patient prognosis cannot be ignored.
Strategies of virginiamycin supplementation in the postweaning phase on growth performance and carcass quality of beef cattle
Authors: Gomes Rodrigo da Costa , Menezes Gilberto Romeiro de Oliveira , Favero Ricardo , Kazama Ricardo , Altrak Georg , Mizubuti Ivone Yurika , Bonin Marina de Nadai , Feijó Gelson Luis Dias , Montagner Denise Baptaglin , de Araújo Thiago Luis Alves Campos , Junior Dorgival Morais de Lima , Junior Roberto Augusto de Almeida Torres , Bonin Marcio de Nadai
Published: August 2023

The present study evaluated the effects of supplementing VM in grazing cattle during the rearing phase on performance and carcass quality of beef cattle in the finishing phase. Two experiments with a randomized block design were conducted in consecutive years to contrast two post-weaning supplementation strategies using VM at 45 mg/100 kg body weight (BW). In the first year, treatments were protein supplement in the dry season and mineral supplement in the rainy season versus the addition of VM both in the protein and mineral supplements. In the second year, was contrasted with protein supplement in the dry season and protein-energy supplement in the rainy season. Performance, carcass traits, and carcass quality were evaluated at the end of both phases. In Year 1, adding VM in mineral supplement increased final backfat thickness (P=0.05), backfat gain (P=0.06), final rump fat thickness (P=0.02), and rump fat gain (P=0.01). In the finishing phase, VM-treated cattle had a greater dry matter intake (P=0.03) and tended to show a greater backfat thickness than non-treated cattle (P=0.07). In Year 2, no VM effects were observed on post-weaning phase performance and carcass traits. However, cattle-fed VM during the post-weaning phase tended to show a lower feed conversion ratio (P=0.09) and had a significantly higher gross feed efficiency (P=0.03) than non-treated cattle at slaughter. Virginiamycin supplementation during rearing on pasture improves performance and carcass fattening in the growth phase and has a residual effect in the finishing phase that may reflect greater backfat thickness and gross feed efficiency.
Silica nanoparticle: Eco-friendly Waste Having Potential for Seed Germination of Wheat (Triticum turgidumL. Var. Sham) Under Salt Stress Conditions
Authors: Tabbal J.A. Al , Al-harahsheh Mohammad , Al-Zou’by Jehad , Al‑Zboon Kamel , Alrawashdeh Khalideh Al Bkoor
Published: August 2023

The germination, development, and production of directly seeded agricultural products may be impacted by a variety of abiotic stresses. Silica nanoparticle seed priming may be able to reduce these external stressors. Stress brought on by salt has now become a barrier to wheat (Triticum turgidum) farming success. The goal of the current research was to clarify the effectiveness of seed priming with silica nanoparticles in reducing salt-induced stress in wheat plants. In this research, silica nanoparticle at three distinct concentrations—300, 600 and 900 ppm—was used for seed priming either alone or in combination with sodium chloride (2.3 and 4.6 ds/m). The application of silica nanoparticles considerably improved seedling development while salinity stress greatly decreased germination percent and seedling growth. Seed priming significantly increased shoot length (11.53%) , root length (22.76%) , seedling length (17.57%) , shoot weight (35.56%) , root weight (19.14%) , germination stress tolerance index (91.55%), shoot length stress tolerance index (11.58%), root length stress tolerance index (22.6%), shoot weight stress tolerance index (35.54%) and root weight stress tolerance index (18.12%) under high saline treatment (4.6 ds/m). The significance of nano-silica in reducing the detrimental effects of salt stress on wheat seed growth is highlighted by the current investigation. The results showed that silica nanoparticle seed priming could enhance seedling early development under salt stress.
PM2.5 juvenile exposure-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction by triggering ferroptosis in adult male rats
Authors: Liu Xiang , Ai Yaya , Xiao Mingchen , Wang Cao , Shu Zhen , Yin Jia , Chu Yu , Xiao Qing , Liu Bin
Published: August 2023

PM2.5 derived from automobile exhaust can cause reproductive impairment in adult males, but the toxic effects of PM2.5 exposure on reproductive function in juvenile male rats and its relationship with ferroptosis have not been reported. In this paper, 30-day-old juvenile male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups (blank control, vitamin control , PM2.5, and PM2.5 + vitamin). The blank control group was fed normally, and the vitamin control group was given intragastric administration of vitamins in addition to normal feeding. PM2.5 was administered via trachea intubation. When the rats were treated for four weeks until reaching the period of sexual maturity. mating test were performed first, and then study of testicular and epididymal tissue in them. Compared with control rats, juvenile male rats exposed to PM2.5 showed a decreased sperm count and fertility rate, redox imbalance, damaged mitochondria, a metabolic disorder of intracellular iron ions, and a significant rise in ferroptosis during the period of sexual maturity. After vitamin intervention, the redox imbalance, metabolic disorder of intracellular iron ions, and ferroptosis were all alleviated, leading to the following conclusions: after being exposed to PM2.5 from automobile exhaust, male juvenile rats during the period of sexual maturity have significantly decreased reproductive function. The reproductive toxicity of PM2.5 is closely related to oxidative stress and ferroptosis. In addition, ferroptosis decreases and reproductive function is recovered to some degree after vitamin intervention.
Biopolymer-assisted enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation for Cu-contaminated loess remediation
Authors: Xie Yi-Xin , Cheng Wen-Chieh , Wang Lin , Xue Zhong-Fei , Xu Yin-Long
Published: August 2023

Wastewater, discharged in copper (Cu) mining and smelting, usually contains a large amount of Cu2+. Immobilizing Cu2+ in aqueous solution and soils is deemed crucial in preventing its migration into surrounding environments. In recent years, the enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) has been widely applied to Cu immobilization. However, the effect of Cu2+ toxicity denatures and even inactivates the urease. In the present work, the biopolymer-assisted EICP technology was proposed. The inherent mechanism affecting Cu immobilization was explored through a series of test tube experiments and soil column tests. Results indicated that 4 g/L chitosan may not correspond to a higher immobilization efficiency because it depends as well on surrounding pH conditions. The use of Ca2+ not only prevented the nucleation of the urease with Cu2+ by the electrostatic repulsion but reduced the potential for Cu2+ to migrate into nearby environments when malachite and azurite minerals are wrapped by calcite minerals. The species of carbonate precipitation that are recognized in the numerical simulation supported the above claim. On the other hand, UC1 (urease and chitosan colloid) and UC2 (urea and calcium source) grouting reduced the effect of Cu2+ toxicity by transforming the exchangeable state-Cu into the carbonate combination state-Cu. The side effect, induced by 4 g/L chitosan, promoted the copper-ammonia complex formation in the shallow ground, while the acidic environments in the deep ground prevented Cu2+ from coordinating with soil minerals. These badly degraded the immobilization efficiency. The Raman spectroscopy and XRD test results tallied with the above results. The findings shed light on the potential of applying the biopolymer-assisted EICP technology to Cu-contaminated water bodies and sites remediation.
Identification and validation of TFs and lncRNAs in response to Tomato Leaf Curl Bangalore Virus (ToLCBaV) infection in tomato (Solanum spp.)
Authors: Chidambara Bhavya , Sadashiva Avverahally T. , M Krishna Reddy , Ravishankar Kundapura
Published: August 2023

Tomato leaf curl Bangalore virus (ToLCBaV), often a woeful reason for complete failure of tomato crop in southern India. The plant response to virus infection is a complicated network involving several defence routes. Every defence route involves transcription factors (TFs) and other regulatory transcripts including lncRNA as important regulators of gene expression. These regulators act as both pro-viral and anti-viral factors involved in modulating disease symptoms. This study has reported and validated several TFs and lncRNAs from transcriptome study of tomato lines, IIHR2611 (R) and IIHR 2843 (S) in response to virus infection. Validation was done based on expression analysis of selected TFs and lncRNAs using qPCR at different intervals of ToLCBaV infection. TFs, DREB protein 1A and Protein RADIALIS-like 3 were induced upon ToLCBaV infection. Whereas, WRKY TF-53 was upregulated in S and down regulated in R plants upon virus infection. Four lncRNAs were found differentially expressed among R and S lines when analysed using qPCR. The differential temporal gene expression of TFs among S and R plants in response to ToLCBaV infection regulate the resistance or susceptibility. Further studies on the mechanism of resistance of TFs and lncRNAs will aid in unravelling novel antiviral defence pathways in tomato.
Chitosan oligosaccharide suppresses osteosarcoma malignancy by inhibiting CEMIP via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Sim IlJin , Choe WonGyom , Ri JinJu , Su Hang , Moqbel Safwat Adel Abdo , Yan Weiqi
Published: August 2023

Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor that is prone to metastasize early and primarily affects children and adolescents. Cell migration-inducing protein (CEMIP) plays a crucial role in the progression and malignancy of various tumor diseases, including osteosarcoma. Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), an oligomer isolated from chitin, has been found to have significant anti-tumor activity in various cancers. This study investigates the effects of COS on CEMIP expression in osteosarcoma and explores the underlying mechanism. In present study, in vitro experiments were conducted to confirm the inhibitory activity of COS on human osteosarcoma cells. Our results demonstrate that COS possesses inhibitory effects against human osteosarcoma cells and significantly suppresses CEMIP expression in vitro. Next, we studied the inhibition of the expression of CEMIP by COS and then performed bioinformatics analysis to explore the potential inhibitory mechanism of COS against signaling pathways involved in regulating CEMIP expression. Bioinformatics analysis predicted a close association between the PI3K signaling pathway and CEMIP expression and that the inhibitory effect of COS on CEMIP expression may be related to PI3K signaling pathway regulation. The results of this study show that COS treatment significantly inhibits CEMIP expression and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, as observed both in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrates that COS could inhibit the expression of CEMIP, which is closely related to osteosarcoma malignancy. This inhibitory effect may be attributed to the inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo.
The potential crosstalk genes and molecular mechanisms between glioblastoma and periodontitis
Authors: Huang Jian-huang , Chen Yao , Kang Yuan-bao , Yao Zheng-jian , Song Jian-hua
Published: August 2023

Clinical and epidemiological evidence suggests a link between glioblastoma (GBM) and periodontitis (PD). However, the mechanisms of gene regulation shared by both are unclear. In this study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that overlap between the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets GSE4290 [GBM] and GSE10334 [PD] were identified and functional enrichment analysis was performed. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identified key modules. Then, we validated the key crosstalk genes in two independent external datasets. To further evaluate the correlation of key crosstalk genes with immune cells, the immune cell landscape of GBM and IAs was assessed. Finally, transcription factors (TFs) regulating key crosstalk genes were explored and their expression levels were further validated in the full dataset. We identified CXCR4, LY96 and C3 as key crosstalk genes, the expression levels of them were significantly elevated in the test dataset and external validation dataset. In addition, the expression of multiple immune cells was significantly elevated in GBM and PD compared to controls, and all three key crosstalk genes were significantly negatively associated with Macrophages M2. Finally, FLI1 was identified as a potential key TF, which regulates 3 key crosstalk genes and is upregulated in expression in the full dataset. The present study identified key crosstalk genes (CXCR4, LY96 and C3) and TF (FLI1) in GBM and PD from an immune and inflammatory perspective, providing new ideas for the comorbidity mechanism of GBM and PD.
Utilizing Visual Symptoms to Distinguish Dry Eye from Glaucoma, Cataract, and Suspect Glaucoma Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhao David , Quintero Michael , Mihailovic Aleksandra , Akpek Esen , Karakus Sezen , Guo Lee , Ramulu Pradeep
Published: August 2023

Background: The diagnosis of dry eye and other common ophthalmological conditions can be supported using patient reported symptoms, which is increasingly useful in contexts such as telemedicine. We aim to ascertain visual symptoms that differentiate dry eye from cataract, glaucoma, or glaucoma suspects.
Methods: Adults with dry eye, glaucoma, cataract, and suspected glaucoma (controls) completed a questionnaire to rate the frequency and severity of 28 visual symptoms. Univariate, followed by multivariable logistic regression with backward stepwise selection (p<0.05), determined the individual symptoms and set of symptoms best distinguishing dry eye from each of the other conditions.
Results: Mean age of 353 patients (94 glaucoma suspect controls, 79 glaucoma, 84 cataract, and 96 dry eye) was 64.1 years (SD=14.1); 67% were female and 68% White. Dry eye patients reported more frequent light sensitivity (OR=15.0, 95% CI=6.3-35.7) and spots in vision (OR=2.8, 95% CI=1.2-6.3) compared to glaucoma suspect controls. Compared to glaucoma patients, dry eye patients experienced more frequent light sensitivity (OR=9.2, 95% CI=2.0-41.7), but less frequent poor peripheral vision (OR=0.2, 95% CI=0.06-0.7), difference in vision between eyes (OR=0.09, 95% CI=0.01-0.7), and missing patches of vision (OR=0.06, 95% CI=0.009-0.3). Compared to cataract patients, dry eye patients reported more frequent spots in vision (OR=4.5, 95% CI=1.5-13.4) and vision variability across the week (OR=4.7, 95% CI=1.2-17.7) and were less likely to report worsening vision (OR=0.1, 95% CI=0.03-0.4) and blindness (OR=0.1, 95% CI=0.02-0.8).
Conclusion: Dry eye can be distinguished from various ocular conditions using visual symptoms, though the symptoms that best distinguish dry eye differ across comparisons. Differentiating how patients visually perceive common eye diseases may be used in a variety of clinical settings to rule out specific conditions.
Use of structured systems as a strategy to minimize the deactivation of Ni-based catalysts applied in dry reforming of methane
Authors: de Araújo Ítalo R. S. , Ribeiro André T.S. , Araújo I. C. F. , Araújo N. B. S. , Sanz Oihane , Garcia Ramón R. P. , Sales Deivson C. S. , Almeida Luciano
Published: August 2023

The main challenge in the use of Ni based catalysts is the high deactivation rate of these catalysts. In this work, strategies aimed at improving this characteristic such as the use of structured catalysts were studied. In this work, the Ni/γ-Al2O3 (Ni/Al) and Ni/La2O3-γ-Al2O3 (Ni/La-Al) catalysts were synthesized by the all-in-one method and used in the Dry Reforming of Methane combined with its application in structured systems to minimize the effects of deactivation. The catalysts were characterized and a smaller Ni crystallite size for the La-promoted catalyst was observed. The deactivation of the structured catalysts and application of residual activity deactivation models (DMRA) were evaluated by applying different weight hourly velocities (WHSV). Besides that, the regeneration of the catalysts was developed through the comparison of the treatment with CO2 and H2 atmospheres. Furthermore, the greatest and the lowest deactivation of the structured systems were identified for the WHSV values of 40 and 20 L gcat−1 h− 1, respectively. Finally, the regeneration treatment with CO2 showed to be more efficient than the treatment with H2. A deactivation model was predicted in the region of equilibrium in the catalytic activity, which is associated with the appearance of a residual activity, which decreases with increasing WHSV variable.
Experimental study on effects of air injection on cavitation pressure pulsation and vibration in a centrifugal pump with inducer
Authors: Mao Yanhong , Liu Houlin , Wang Yong , Chen Jie , Liu Fei
Published: August 2023

Cavitation commonly induces performance deterioration and system vibration in many engineering applications. This paper aims to investigate the effects of air injection on cavitation evolution, pressure pulsation and vibration in a centrifugal pump with inducer. In this paper, the high-speed camera is used to capture the gas flow pattern and cavitation evolution process in the inducer. The impacts of air injection on the inlet pressure pulsation and vibration are also investigated. The results show that the cavitation development in the inducer undergoes four patterns: incipient cavitation, sheet cavitation, cloud cavitation and super cavitation. As the cavitation becomes more severe, the main frequency of the pressure pulsation shifts to lower frequencies, and the amplitude of the vibration increase. In addition, air injection promotes the incipient cavitation but delays the cavitation development. A small amount of air makes cavity shed with small-scale clusters. Meanwhile, it can effectively decrease amplitudes of pressure pulsation and vibration. As the air content increases, the fluctuations and amplitudes of pressure pulsation and vibration increase.
Phyto-synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles and Its Application in Medical Fabrics and Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Janakiraman Vardhana , G Reethiga , B Sampathkumar , N.K Udayaprakash
Published: August 2023

Background: Copper's potent antimicrobial properties make it essential in medical fabrics, enhancing infection control and cleanliness. Phyto-synthesis, using plant-based materials for nanoparticle synthesis, offers an eco-friendly approach that harnesses the natural antimicrobial properties of plants. Curcuma aromatica, rich in bioactive compounds, shows potential for synthesizing antimicrobial copper nanoparticles (CuNPs).
Methods: CuNPs were synthesized using Curcuma aromatica extract and characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The antibacterial efficacy of the synthesized CuNPs was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using the well diffusion method. The CuNPs embedded cotton fabrics were also evaluated for their antimicrobial activity.
Results: The UV-VIS Spectroscopy showed absorption peaks above 495 nm due to the plasmon resonance of CuNPs. The synthesized nanoparticles ranged in size from 54 to 69 nm which was confirmed by SEM images. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of various organic molecules associated with CuNPs. XRD analysis revealed the face-centered cubic crystal structure of the CuNPs. The CuNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as evidenced by the inhibition zones. The CuNPs embedded cotton fabrics demonstrated antimicrobial activity against the tested pathogens.
Conclusion:In this study, CuNPs were synthesized using Curcuma aromatica extract and exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The incorporation of CuNPs into cotton fabrics resulted in sustained antimicrobial activity, indicating their potential for antimicrobial textile development. These findings support the use of Curcuma aromatica as a suitable source for CuNP synthesis and emphasize the significance of CuNPs in the development of effective antimicrobial fabrics for medical applications.
Physiologic and Self-Report Assessment of a Multimodal Therapeutic Intervention for PTSD in US Firefighters: A Pilot Study
Authors: Saha Pritha , Metry Vereena , Streeter Faith , Jin Nathan Xiao , Gowen Christopher , Corey Jessica , Jones Daniel , Carroll C Patrick , Weston Cody , McCann Una
Published: August 2023

Fire service members are a population with high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to the general population. Moreover, they are underrepresented in the literature with respect to traumatic stress and corresponding interventions. As such, there is a need to improve treatment of PTSD and its resultant symptoms specifically in fire service members. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a multimodal treatment intervention for US fire service members with PTSD. It aimed to (i) assess the effect of the 4-week intervention on self-report and physiologic symptoms, (ii) correlate self-report and physiologic measures of PTSD, and (iii) identify the measures most closely linked to treatment response. Self-report measures of BDI, PSQI, and PCL-5 showed weekly improvement, plateauing around four weeks. The physiologic data of blink reflex amplitude and heart rate variability did not appear to correlate with these self-report measures, but the methods of data collection may need further refinement. This study suggests interesting avenues for future research for PTSD treatment in fire service members, such as evaluating individual components of this intervention. Additionally, it indicates that a four-week period of study should be sufficient to see effects in participants’ symptoms of PTSD, depression, and sleep quality.
Dual ASIC/FPGA Design of Elliptic Curve Scalar Multiplication for Wireless Networks and Internet of Things
Authors: Singh Shraddha , Chauhan Durg Singh
Published: August 2023

The main enhancement areas in growth of wireless technology include speed, power consumption and better security management of IoT devices and networks. The essential part of cryptographic use in IoT is to encrypt data over the wireless communication networks for resolving the security and privacy issues. In this paper, the simulation and synthesis results of elliptic curve scalar multiplication over 2163 binary field have been obtained using vivado-2019.2 and virtex-7 FPGA technologies with achieved frequency-213.81MHz, which are better than most of the similar other works. Based on various experiments related to high speed, less area, low power consumption and their trade-offs, the proposed 22nm (FDSOI) technology ASIC implementation provides better frequency-257.53MHz, leakage power-0.011mW, and area-106832.195µm2.