bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peroxiredoxin 1 inhibits streptozotocin-induced Alzheimer’s disease-like pathology in hippocampal neuronal cells via Ca 2+ /Calpain/Cdk5-mediated mitochondrial fragmentation
Authors: Park Junghyung , Won Jinyoung , Yang Eunyeoung , Seo Jincheol , Cho Jiyeon , Seong Jung Bae , Yeo Hyeon-Gu , Kim Keonwoo , Kim Yu Gyeong , Kim Minji , Jeon Chang-Yeop , Lim Kyung Seob , Lee Dong-Seok , Lee Youngjeon
Published: January 2024

Oxidative stress plays an essential role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced abnormal brain insulin signaling and oxidative stress play crucial roles in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-like pathology. Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) are associated with protection from neuronal death induced by oxidative stress. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Prxs on STZ-induced progression of AD in the hippocampal neurons are not yet fully understood. Here, we investigated the effect of Peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) on STZ-induced AD-like pathology. Prx1 expression was increased by STZ treatment in the hippocampus cell line, HT-22 cells. We evaluated whether Prx1 affects STZ-induced HT-22 cells using overexpression. Prx1 successfully protected the forms of STZ-induced AD-like pathology, such as neuronal apoptosis, synaptic loss, and tau phosphorylation. Moreover, Prx1 suppressed STZ-induced increase of mitochondrial dysfunction and fragmentation by down-regulating Drp1 phosphorylation and mitochondrial location. Prx1 plays a role in an upstream signal pathway of Drp1 phosphorylation, cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) by inhibiting the STZ-induced conversion of p35 to p25. We found that STZ-induced of intracellular Ca2+ accumulation was an important modulator of AD-like pathology progression by regulating Ca2+-mediated Calpain activation, and Prx1 down-regulated STZ-induced intracellular Ca2+ accumulation and Ca2+-mediated Calpain activation. Finally, we identified that Prx1 antioxidant capacity affected Ca2+/Calpain/Cdk5-mediated AD-like pathology progress. Therefore, these findings demonstrated that Prx1 is a key factor in the STZ-induced hippocampal neuronal death through inhibition of Ca2+/Calpain/Cdk5-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction by protecting oxidative stress.
Missing topics for a newly established general practice curriculum for medical students in Hesse – a qualitative study
Authors: Kronemann Bibiane , Joson-Teichert Elisabeth , Michiels-Corsten Matthias , Bösner Stefan , Groth Jana
Published: January 2024

Background
To address declining numbers of general practitioners (GPs) in rural areas and a lack of medical students pursuing a career in primary care, a general practice-based curriculum coupled with additional university admissions for students has been established at three universities in Hesse, Germany. The aim of this study is to analyze potential topics that need to be taught to students who strive to become GPs to best prepare them for their chosen career and working in rural areas. Our aim was to explore the views of both specialists and GPs on central topics and necessary skills in primary care.
Methods
In our study we used semi-structured interviews with outpatient specialists and specialists in clinical practice and semi-structured group interviews with GPs in training. The topic guide addressed contents of the curriculum for medical students with an extracurricular focus (addressing additional topics) on primary care.
Data analysis was carried out using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring.
Results
GPs in training and specialists agreed on the importance of knowledge in the fields of medical history, physical examination, communication as well as common diseases in primary care. Essential competences mentioned were: induce medical treatment, decision making and triage, conduct structured conversations, have patient knowledge (hard skills) as well as interest in continuous learning, empathy, personal commitment, listening and down-to-earthness (soft skills). Case reports, symptom-based learning, practical training, lessons with simulated patients and the integration of role models were regarded as useful teaching methods.
Conclusions
General practice-based curriculums should not only focus on the transfer of knowledge. The training of soft and hard skills is equally important to prepare future GPs for their work in primary care. New teaching methods as well as practical training should be the heart of a newly established curriculum.
Understanding global perspectives for the acceptance of community sanitation welfare schemes through a localised qualitative survey in Kho Nagorian, Jaipur, India
Authors: Gupta Vinayak , Gonzales Hazel , Hungwe Douglas , Kanokwan Yamsomphong , Takahashi Fumitake
Published: January 2024

Community sanitation is a fundamental human right and need. Every year, as per the World Bank, total cost of providing sanitation services is estimated at around 114 billion USD per year. In India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA), a public welfare scheme (PWS), is aimed at addressing community sanitation problems. Despite the successful implementation of SBA, local communities still practise open defaecation. To deduce the behavioural patterns governing communal toilet use, interviews were conducted with the local communities in the Kho Nagorian area of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. This qualitative survey examined attitudes towards the construction of a toilet, awareness towards the SBA scheme, and the willingness to use sewage-based manure. The study then discusses the factors that increase the local community’s willingness to use these toilets. Results show that open defaecation is still prevalent in society. One way to foster the adoption of toilets is that the construction materials should mainly consist of local materials. As a recourse, places of worship could be used to influence people`s perception of hygiene. In addition, community toilets should be cleaned often as well. PWS should not be made accessible at no cost to prevent a sense of entitlement among the people. A small sum should be charged to increase social responsibility towards the PWS. Another way to curb open defaecation is to tap into the sense of entitlement by making effective use of social campaign programs. Further, cross-table analysis revealed that the locals were inclined to use a toilet if they have invested in it. Advertisements were found to be ineffective, and proposals were made to make them effective. These findings aid in understanding public perceptions and can guide the development of public policies. The findings also assist in making tax distribution decisions that reflect public concerns, attitudes, and values.
Carvedilol ameliorates experimental atherosclerosis by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Xu Rui , Yan KaiXin , Bu Juan , Zhou Ling , Xu Hong
Published: January 2024

Objective: To investigate the protective effect of carvedilol against atherosclerosis by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Methods：In vitro experiments, human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVEC) were divided into the control group, ox-LDL group, carvedilol 5μM group, carvedilol 10μM group, and carvedilol 20μM group. The optimal concentration of carvedilol was determined using the CCK-8 method to assess cell proliferation levels and oil red O staining to observe intracellular lipid droplet formation. Subsequently, the cells were further divided into the control group, ox-LDL group, carvedilol 5μM (optimal concentration) group, and MCC950 (inhibitor of NLRP3 Inflammasome) group. The expression levels of intracellular proteins NLRP3, pro-Caspase-1, Caspase1, pro-IL-1β, IL-1β, p65, GSDMD, and N-GSDMD were detected by ELISA, or Western Blotting.
Results: Compared to the control group, the ox-LDL group exhibited a significant reduction in cell proliferation level (P<0.05), accompanied by an increase in lipid droplet formation upon induction. In contrast, pretreatment with carvedilol at concentrations of 5μM, 10μM, and 20μM effectively promoted cell proliferation (P<0.05) and inhibited intracellular lipid droplet formation. Notably, the most pronounced effect was observed with carvedilol pretreatment at a concentration of 5μM. Furthermore, compared to the control group, HUVEC cells in the ox-LDL group demonstrated substantial upregulation of NLRP3, pro-Caspase-1, Caspase1, pro-IL-1β, IL-1β, p65 GSDMD and N-GSDMD; however, these markers were downregulated following treatment with carvedilol and MCC950 administration-particularly evident in the carvedilol group.
Conclusion: Carvedilol effectively inhibits the progression of atherosclerosisby targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby providing valuable mechanistic insights into its beneficial effects on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Stimuli-specific senescence of primary human lung fibroblasts modulates alveolar stem cell function
Authors: Bramey Nora , Melo-Narvaez Maria Camila , See Fenja , Ballester-Lllobell Beatriz , Steinchen Carina , Jain Eshita , Hafner Kathrin , Yildirim Ali Önder , Königshoff Melanie , Lehmann Mareike
Published: January 2024

Aging is the main risk factor for chronic lung diseases (CLDs) including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Accordingly, hallmarks of aging such as cellular senescence are present in different lung cell types such as fibroblasts in these patients. However, whether the senescent phenotype of fibroblasts derived from IPF or COPD patients differs is still unknown. Therefore, we characterized senescence at baseline and after exposure to disease-relevant insults (H2O2, bleomycin, and TGF-β1) in cultured primary human lung fibroblasts (phLF) from control donors, IPF, or COPD patients. We found that phLF from different disease-origins have a low baseline senescence. H2O2 and bleomycin treatment induced a senescent phenotype in phLF, whereas TGF-β1 had primarily a pro-fibrotic effect. Notably, we did not observe any differences in susceptibility to senescence induction in phLF based on disease origin, while exposure to different stimuli resulted in distinct senescence programs in phLF. Moreover, senescent phLF reduced colony formation efficiency of distal alveolar epithelial progenitor cells in a stimuli-dependent manner. In conclusion, the senescent phenotype of phLF is mainly determined by the senescence inducer and impairs alveolar epithelial progenitor capacity in vitro.
A Study on Expression Recognition Based on Improved MobileNetV2 Network
Authors: Zhu Qiming , Zhuang Hongwei , Zhao Mi , Xu Shuangchao , Meng Rui
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes an improved strategy for the MobileNetV2 neural network(I-MobileNetV2) in response to problems such as large parameter quantities in existing deep convolutional neural networks and the shortcomings of the lightweight neural network MobileNetV2 such as easy loss of feature information, poor real-time performance, and low accuracy rate in facial emotion recognition tasks. The network inherits the characteristics of MobilenetV2 depthwise separated convolution, signifying a reduction in computational load while maintaining a lightweight profile. It utilizes a reverse fusion mechanism to retain negative features, which makes the information less likely to be lost. The SELU activation function is used to replace the RELU6 activation function to avoid gradient vanishing. Meanwhile, to improve the feature recognition capability, the channel attention mechanism (Squeeze-and-Excitation Networks (SE-Net)) is integrated into the MobilenetV2 network. Experiments conducted on the facial expression datasets FER2013 and CK + showed that the proposed network model achieved facial expression recognition accuracies of 68.62% and 95.96%, improving upon the MobileNetV2 model by 0.72% and 6.14% respectively, and the parameter count decreased by 83.8%. These results empirically verify the effectiveness of the improvements made to the network model.
Computational analysis of substituent effects on proton affinity and gas-phase basicity of TEMPO derivatives, and their hydrogen bonding interactions with water molecules
Authors: Shiroudi Abolfazl , Śmiechowski Maciej , Czub Jacek , Abdel-Rahman Mohamed A.
Published: January 2024

The molecular structure of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) and its derivatives (X: CH3, NH2, CHO, and NO2) in the gas phase, as well as their hydration, is investigated using the B3LYP method and the 6-311 + + G(d,p) basis set. Intermolecular interactions are analyzed using the natural bond orbital (NBO) and atoms in molecules (AIM) techniques. NBO analysis reveals the stability and formation of compounds, while AIM calculations show all hydrogen bonding interactions in the hydrated forms of TEMPO derivatives. The chemical reactivity parameters show that NO2-substituted TEMPO, with a small HOMO-LUMO energy gap, is more reactive, less stable, and exhibits softer qualities. Furthermore, the NBO results show that the stability of the investigated TEMPO derivatives is mainly influenced by LP(e)→σ∗ electronic delocalization effects, with the highest stabilization observed on the oxygen atom of the nitroxide moiety. The study considers electron density, atomic charges, and energetic and thermodynamic properties of the studied nitroxide radicals and their relative stability. The study computed the proton affinity (PA) and gas-phase basicity (GB) of TEMPO derivatives at T = 298 K for the O-protonation and N-protonation.The computed PA values in case of O-protonation of TEMPO derivatives (X: H, CH3, NH2, CHO, NO2) are 896.04, 894.17, 892.57, 870.36, and 851.29 kJ/mol, respectively, while the corresponding values for N-protonation are 806.50, 806.92, 804.08, 787.45, and 763.11 kJ/mol, respectively. The AIM analysis reveals that the N−O…H interaction in H2O complexes has the most favorable H-bond energy. The electronic structure characterization of N−O…H bonds in stable conformers of studied TEMPO derivatives revealed H-bond energies of 6.90, 6.90, 6.87, 6.62, and 6.46 kcal/mol for H, CH3, NH2, CHO, and NO2 substitutions, computed at bond critical points (3,−1).
Gripping Insights: Relative Muscle Strength and Its Association with Hypertension and Prehypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: M Yogesh , Nagda Jay , Patel Nirmalkumar Shaileshbhai , Varu Jay
Published: January 2024

Background: Hypertension and muscle strength are known to be associated; however, identifying simple clinical indicators of this relationship ischallenging. Relative muscle strength (RMS), defined as strength per unit muscle mass, has been proposed as a potential indicator, but its association with hypertension is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between RMS and hypertension in middle-aged and older adults.
Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study included 430 adults attending outpatient medicine clinics from January to October 2023. Grip strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), estimated using a validated formula, were also measured. The RMS was calculated as grip strength/ASM. Hypertension was defined using standard criteria. Logistic regression was used to analyse the relationship between RMS and hypertension, adjusting for confounders.
Results: The prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension was 43% and 23%, respectively. According to the adjusted analysis, a higher RMS was associated with 33% lower odds of prehypertension (OR=0.67, 95% CI=0.49-0.91) and 26% lower odds of hypertension (OR=0.74, 95% CI=0.59-0.89) than was the lowest RMS tertile. RMS also showed strong negative correlations with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (r=-0.549 and -0.418, respectively; p<0.001).
Conclusion: Increased relative muscle strength was significantly protective against prehypertension and hypertension. Maintaining muscle quality through resistance exercise or other approaches may promote hypertension prevention.
Breast-conserving surgery with partial resection of the nipple and areola considering the anatomy of the mammary gland
Authors: Ogawa Akio , Ito Yuko , Nojiri Motoi , Yoshihara Motoi
Published: January 2024

Background
For breast cancer in or near the nipple–areolar region, the nipple–areolar complex (NAC) is generally resected. The NAC is important for the appearance of the breast. By embryological mechanism, each glandular lobe system is independent until the ductal opening on the nipple surface.
Methods
Breast-conserving surgery was performed with quadrantectomy of the nipple, including the target duct, by adding a full-layer excision of the areolar region, and further resection, including the main breast cancer lesion. Sixty patients underwent the procedure. The main lesion occupied a subsite other than the nipple–areolar region in 43 patients. The degree of intraductal growth toward the nipple was determined using preoperative contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in the prone position. The diagnosis was made based on the pathology results of postoperative resection specimens.
Results
The shape of the excised mammary gland appeared like a whole cake cutting. Eight cases had positive resection margins. Two cases were positive at the nipple-side dissecting edge. Eight patients had no lesions in the nipple–areolar region. Deformation of the NAC was slight. The postoperative breast morphology was similar to that of other conservative techniques. This technique allows for partial excision of the nipple to preserve the NAC and safely perform breast-conserving surgery.
Conclusion
Breast-conserving surgery with partial nipple and areola resection is an option for early-stage breast cancer with possible intraductal growth to the nipple–areolar region.
Integrated analyses of the intestinal microbiome and transcriptome in NingXiang piglets
Authors: Hu Zhenguo , Yao Yuezhou , Chen Feiyue , Feng Luya , Yuan Zian , Deng Junhao , Huang Lang , Tang Xiongzhuo , Yin Yulong
Published: January 2024

Background
NingXiang (NX) pig has been characterized as one of the best Chinese indigenous pig breeds, with high fertility and disease resistance.
However, its intestinal gene expression and gut microbial characteristics have not been studied.
Results
Here, we delineated and compared the profile of intestinal microbiome and transcriptome between NX and Duroc × Landrace × Large white (DLY) piglets by integrating metagenomic and transcriptomic analyses. We found that the abundance of several colonic Bacteroides species (B. fragilis, B. thetaiotaomicron and B. sp_PHL_2737), Prevotella species (P. intermedia, P. dentalis and P. enoeca), Clostridium species (C. scindens, C. butyricum and C. botulinum), Anaerrobutyricum and Lactobacillus_saerimneri are significantly increased in NX piglets than DLY piglets. Additionally, several archaea and fungal species were also dominantly enriched in the colon of NX piglets. Then, we identified some unique colonic bacterial species that may act as characteristics of these two pig breeds. Functional analyses of NX piglets-enriched microbes revealed their dominant function in methane, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis metabolism. Strikingly, the composition and function of the gut microbiota were significantly correlated with growth performance both in NX and DLY piglets. Finally, our mRNA-sequencing revealed the distinct intestinal gene expression pattern between NX and DLY piglets, and NX piglets exhibit improved intestinal barrier function and varied immune features than DLY piglets.
Conclusion
Together, our study revealed the characteristics of the gut microbiota and intestinal gene expression in NX piglets, providing the potential to explore its mechanisms in disease resistance and gut development.
Unveiling Digenic Pathogenic Variants and Mutation Susceptibility in Chinese Patients with Suspected Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Ziwei Wang , Han Dongming , li Jiankang
Published: January 2024

Background
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP; MIM: #268000) is a type of inherited retinal dystrophy (IRD) characterized by the progressive loss of retinal photoreceptors. In recent years, the field of bioinformatics has made significant advancements, enabling us to uncover new digenic disease variants associated with RP. Additionally, there is increasing attention given to identifying prevalent founder mutations, as they have the potential to be targeted by mutation-specific therapies that focus on specific regions of the genome.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study involving 450 patients who were diagnosed with suspected RP as the study cohort. To serve as a control cohort, we included their family members. In this study, we aimed to establish a genotype-phenotype correlation among all participants. For patients who did not have any identified pathogenic variants, we performed digenic pathogenicity prediction along with Sanger sequencing validation. Furthermore, we conducted transmission linkage disequilibrium analysis to identify susceptibility loci for all patients.
Result
In our study, we achieved a molecular diagnosis in 67.8% of the patients, with the top 17 genes accounting for 75.63% of the 305 diagnosed cases. We identified a total of 464 known pathogenic loci, consisting of 103 different variants, as well as 73 novel pathogenic loci with 43 different variants. Among these findings, we discovered 12 suspected pathogenic digenic loci pairs, and two of them were successfully validated through Sanger sequencing - PDE6A c.1744C > T/RP1 c.607G > T and CRB1 c.2714G > A/PROM1 c.1438G > A. After applying the Bonferroni correction, we identified eight significant mutations associated with suspected RP. These mutations include MSH2 c.212-16delT, LRP5 c.58-60del, FOXE3 c.211A > G, PRX c.4077-4079del, DMD c.8810A > A, GP1BA c.1322-1344del, SYNE2 c.1170A > C, and SMPD1 c.573T > C. Additionally, our study unveiled 26 combinations of highly correlated susceptible loci involving 31 genes. Among these combinations, MSH2 c.212-16delT and WFS1 c.1832G > A were identified as susceptible interaction hotspots.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this retrospective study demonstrated that a considerable number of patients achieved a molecular diagnosis. Furthermore, the study aimed to identify novel digenic disease variants in patients with suspected RP utilizing bioinformatics methods. The findings of the study also unveiled significant susceptible mutations associated with suspected RP, shedding light on potential targets for mutation-specific therapy in the future.
Unlocking the potential of phytochemicals in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 M Pro protein - An in-silico and cell-based approach
Authors: Singh Khushboo , Patten J. J. , Dimet Andrea , Davey Robert A. , Watowich Stanley J. , Chandra Amit , Leverett Jesse
Published: January 2024

The main protease (MPro) of SARS-CoV-2 plays a crucial role in viral replication and is a prime target for therapeutic interventions. Phytochemicals, known for their antiviral properties, have been previously identified as potential MPro inhibitors in several in silico studies. However, the efficacy of these remains in question owing to the inherent flexibility of the MPro binding site, posing challenges in selecting suitable protein structures for virtual screening. In this study, we conducted an extensive analysis of the MPro binding pocket, utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore its conformational diversity. Based on pocket volume and shape-based clustering, five representative protein conformations were selected for virtual screening. Virtual screening of a library of ~ 48,000 phytochemicals suggested 39 phytochemicals as potential MPro inhibitors. Based on subsequent MM-GBSA binding energy calculations and ADMET property predictions, five compounds were advanced to cell-based viral replication inhibition assays, with three compounds (demethoxycurcumin, shikonin, and withaferin A) exhibiting significant (EC50 < 10 uM) inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. Our study provides an understanding of the binding interactions between these phytochemicals and MPro, contributing significantly to the identification of promising MPro inhibitors. Furthermore, beyond its impact on therapeutic development against SARS-CoV-2, this research highlights a crucial role of proper nutrition in the fight against viral infections.
Nonreciprocal feedback induces migrating oblique and horizontal banded vegetation patterns in hyperarid landscapes
Authors: Hidalgo Belen , Pinto David , Tlidi Mustapha , Clerc Marcel
Published: January 2024

In hyperarid environments, vegetation is highly fragmented, with plant populations exhibiting non-random biphasic structures where regions of high biomass density are separated by bare soil. In the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, rainfall is virtually nonexistent, but fog pushed in from the interior sustains patches of vegetation in a barren environment. Tillandsia landbeckii, a plant with no functional roots, survives entirely on fog corridors as a water source. Their origin is attributed to interaction feedback among the ecosystem agents, which have different spatial scales, ultimately generating banded patterns as a self-organising response to resource scarcity. The interaction feedback between the plants can be nonreciprocal due to the fact that the fog flows in a well-defined direction. Using remote sensing analysis and mathematical modelling, we characterise the orientation angle of banded vegetation patterns with respect to fog direction and topographic slope gradient. We show that banded vegetation patterns can be either oblique or horizontal to the fog flow rather than topography. The initial and boundary conditions determine the type of the pattern. The bifurcation diagram for both patterns is established. The theoretical predictions are in agreement with observations from remote sensing image analysis.
Developing a scoring framework for curriculum viability indicators to assess the survival of a curriculum
Authors: Sikander Fatima , Khan Rehan A , Batool Saima
Published: January 2024

Background:
Curriculum viability indicators are crucial in the success of a curriculum. In our study, curriculum viability within the context of medical education was undertaken, with a particular focus on the development and validation of a scoring framework.
Methods:
The study spans two phases, beginning with the creation of norm tables using the Median split method for Curriculum viability student questionnaire and Curriculum viability teacher questionnaire. These norm tables serve to categorize curriculum viability into high, satisfactory, and poor levels. The scoring framework undergoes refinement through validation using the Modified Angoff method and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis.
Results:
Results indicate a cut-off score range for CVTQ (51-75 by norm table, 69.5 via ROC, and 42 through expert consensus) and for CVSQ (29-42 by norm table and 46 via Modified Angoff).
Conclusion:
Our study offers a comprehensive diagnostic tool for curriculum viability and a basis for informed decision-making in educational planning and improvement.
Uncovering the neural control of laryngeal activity and subglottic pressure in anaesthetized rats: insights from mesencephalic regions
Authors: Marta González-García , Laura Carrillo-Franco , Carmen Morales-Luque , Marina Ponce-Velasco , Belén Gago , Stefan Dawid-Milner Marc , Víctor López-González Manuel
Published: January 2024

To assess the possible interactions between the dorsolateral Periaqueductal Gray matter (dlPAG) and the laryngeal motor neurons of the nucleus Ambiguus (nA), we have examined the pattern of double staining c-Fos/FoxP2 protein immunoreactivity (c-Fos-ir/Fox-P2-ir) and Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) throughout the rostro-caudal extent of nA in spontaneously breathing anaesthetised male Sprague–Dawley rats during dlPAG electrical stimulation. Activation of the dlPAG elicited a selective increase in c-Fos-ir with an ipsilateral predominance in the somatas of the loose (p<0.05) and compact formation (p<0.01) within the nA and confirm the expression of FoxP2 bilaterally in all the domains within the nA. A second group of experiments was made to examine the importance of the dlPAG in modulating the laryngeal response evoked after electrical or chemical (glutamate) dlPAG stimulations. Both electrical and chemical stmulations evoked a significant decrease of laryngeal resistance (subglottal pressure) (p<0.001) accompanied with an increase in respiratory rate together with a pressor and tachycardic response. The results of our study contribute with new data on the role of the mesencephalic neuronal circuits in the control mechanisms of subglottic pressure and laryngeal activity.
P-GeT Assay: An Innovative Frontier in CircRNA Enrichment
Authors: Sharma Priyanka , Guria Ashirbad , Pandi Gopal
Published: January 2024

Circular RNAs have garnered attention as essential regulators of gene expression and potential biomarkers in various biological processes and diseases. However, their reliable enrichment from complex RNA pool remains a critical challenge and a costlier approach. Here, we present the "Plug-Gel Trap (P-GeT) assay," as a novel, cost-efficient, and innovative way that bypass the existing exorbitant techniques for circRNA enrichment. By greatly modifying the existing (circular DNA) gel-trap method, the principles of P-GeT assay capitalize on efficient entrapment of unique covalently-closed circular characteristics of RNAs while excluding linear counterparts. In this article, we sketch the fundamental principles behind the P-GeT assay, detailing its workflow and highlighting specificity and efficiency in aggrandizing circRNAs. We compared the competence of two regularly used gel sieves composed of either acrylamides or agarose to significantly trap circular transcripts. The selective trapping by P-GeT assay is validated using the divergent and convergent oligo-nucleotides specific to circular and linear transcripts respectively, and subsequently by northern hybridization. Both the validations are greatly able to detect only the circular form rather than linear transcript. Our study not only introduces an innovative approach for circRNA enrichment but also underscores its versatility and cost-effectiveness, making it accessible to a broader research community. The P-GeT assay represents a significant step towards advancing circRNA studies, unlocking their full potential in deciphering complex biological processes and disease mechanisms.
The geriatric nutritional risk index as a prognostic factor in revision total knee arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Steven H. , Lung Brandon , Burgan Jane , Loyst Rachel A. , Nicholson James J. , Stitzlein Russell N.
Published: January 2024

Background
This study investigates the association between the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), a readily available index measuring the risk of malnutrition, and 30-day postoperative complications following revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA).
Methods
The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for all patients ≥ 65 who underwent rTKA between 2015 and 2021. The study population was divided into three groups based on preoperative GNRI: normal/reference (GNRI > 98), moderate malnutrition (92 ≤ GNRI ≤ 98), and severe malnutrition (GNRI < 92). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between preoperative GNRI and postoperative complications.
Results
Compared to normal nutrition, moderate malnutrition was independently significantly associated with a greater likelihood of experiencing any complication, blood transfusions, surgical site infection (SSI), non-home discharge, readmission, length of stay (LOS) > 2 days, and mortality. Severe malnutrition was independently significantly associated with a greater likelihood of experiencing any complication, septic shock, pneumonia, unplanned reintubation, cardiac arrest or myocardial infarction, stroke, blood transfusions, still on ventilator > 48 hours, SSI, wound dehiscence, acute renal failure, non-home discharge, readmission, unplanned reoperation, LOS > 2 days, and mortality. Severe malnutrition was independently significantly associated with a greater number of complications and had a stronger association with complications compared to moderate malnutrition.
Conclusion
Malnutrition identified by GNRI has strong predictive value for short-term postoperative complications following rTKA in geriatric patients and may have utility as an adjunctive risk stratification tool for geriatric patients undergoing rTKA.
Medical Alert Cards for Patients with Antegrade Continence Enemas (ACEs): A Useful Tool to Increase Awareness
Authors: Bokova Elizaveta , Elhalaby Ismael , Martin-McLain Margaret , Lewis Wendy E. , Feira Christine N. , Lim Irene Isabel P. , Rentea Rebecca M.
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure, a surgical intervention creating colonic access, demands a physician’s nuanced understanding of the procedure, channel type, tubes utilized, and regimen. This study introduces an instrument to enhance healthcare providers' and caregivers’ familiarity with ACE procedures.
Methods
Medical Alert Cards encompassed (1) contact details, (2) ACE-related information, (3) emergency referral indications, and (4) patient-specific data. A single-institution survey appraising the cards’ efficacy was disseminated among providers and caregivers.
Results
Among 17 providers, the majority (65%) being attendings, 94% affirmed the cards’ utility in elucidating individual patient features. Content coherence was acknowledged by providers (88%) and caregivers (100%), with a readability score of 8 (IQR 7–10). The layout was approved by 88% of respondents, and 55% stated that the cards would inform their personalized management approach. Providers appreciated the clarity of contact details (94%) finding it advantageous for patient referral (18%). Proposed enhancements encompassed adding tube-related information, readability improvement, and visual presentation of the channel. Of the 2 caregivers, all reported their intention to carry the physical card for presentation at medical facilities.
Conclusions
Medical Alert Cards can increase healthcare providers’ and caregivers’ understanding of ACE procedures, facilitating management, and ensuring patient referral to specialized centers.
An Integrated Method for External and Internal Scheduling of Parallel Cluster Tools
Authors: YANG FAJUN
Published: January 2024

Cluster tools are integrated machines for wafer processing in semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities (wafer fabs). Since different kinds of wafers can circulate in a cluster tool simultaneously, it is a fully automated machine environment. The development of scheduling approaches for these extremely expensive machines is essential for improving their operations. We study a scheduling problem on the work center level, i.e. for parallel cluster tools. The performance measure is the total weighted tardiness. All jobs are available at scheduling time. Two different biased random-key genetic algorithms (BRKGAs) are designed to assign jobs to cluster tools and to compute sequences for each single cluster tool. We establish algorithms to compute the time a job spent in a cluster tool, called processing time, given the sequence in which the jobs are processed there. They are embedded into the BRKGAs. Computational experiments based on randomly generated problem instances are carried out. The results demonstrate that the proposed metaheuristics perform well with respect to solution quality and computing time.
Exploring Cancer Patients’ Perspectives on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) Experiences and Its Management: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Satiamurthy Raajeswari , Shah Noraida Mohamed , Muin Nur Fa’izah Ab. , Azmi Norazrina , Ismail Che Aishah Nazariah , Yaakob Nor Syafinaz
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy that can lead to poor quality of life among cancer patients. Currently, no strong and effective CIPN preventive measures exist, while treatment options available are limited. This study aimed to explore CIPN experience among Malaysian cancer patients and potential barriers to its management.
Methods: Semi-structured one-to-one interviews were conducted among cancer patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CIPN. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis.
Results: Twenty-two participants were included in the interviews, with a predominant representation of females (n=12) and primary diagnosis of colon cancer (n=8). Most participants received platinum-based chemotherapy, primarily oxaliplatin (n=10). Twomajor themes emerged with three subsequent subthemes for each: (1) CIPN experiences (subthemes: CIPN symptoms and severity, CIPN tolerance, CIPN awareness) and (2) CIPN management (subthemes: choices of current treatment, effectiveness of treatment, option for a new treatment). The study results indicate that patients experienced CIPN, which was considerably mild and impacted their life activities to a small extent. Although the management of CIPN was able to partly control symptoms, patients experienced side effects from the prescribed medications. Despite this, patients expressed openness to explore new treatments to help them coping better with CIPN.
Conclusion: The study's findings showed the need to manage patients’ understanding regarding CIPN. Current CIPN management among these patients was acceptable, however, their quality of life was impacted. By considering patients’ perspectives, these findings may help to enhance the management of CIPN.
Determining Potential Therapeutic Targets for Venous Thrombosis through Network Pharmacology, Cluster Typing, WGCNA, Machine Learning, Immune Infiltration Analysis, and ceRNA Networks
Authors: Li Zhuoji , Zhong Ming , Fu Kaili , Pang Lingpin , Sun Jie , Huang Tao , Song Lingyue , Guo Dingyu , Cheng Junfen , Sun Xishi
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:
Venous thrombosis presents a significant global health challenge, characterized by its high incidence and limited therapeutic effectiveness. Our objective is to leverage the pharmacological insights offered by traditional Chinese medicine networks to identify potential therapeutic targets for venous thrombosis treatment and elucidate their underlying mechanisms of action.
METHODS:
We initiated our study by isolating the active ingredients and targets of Chinese medicine compounds from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Concurrently, we acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) patient data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Utilizing Cytoscape, we constructed a network connecting TCM ingredients, disease targets, and related interactions. Molecular subtypes were determined through target information clustering and typing using the "ConsensusClusterPlus" software package. Key genes were subsequently identified through a combination of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning techniques. Functional enrichment analysis was performed on these key genes. Subsequently, we investigated immune cell and immune function differences related to the identified key genes. Lastly, we constructed the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network associated with PPP2R1A.
RESULTS:
Our initial analysis identified several key genes, including FOS, ICAM1, CASP3, and HSP90AA1. Subsequent functional and downstream analyses revealed that two central hub genes, PPP2R1A and RPL9, may represent novel targets for VTE therapy. Notably, these hub genes are not only associated with thrombospondin and platelet function regulation but also play a role in modulating T cell expression in immunoassays. In conclusion, our findings suggest that ten lncRNAs may compete with two miRNAs for binding, thereby regulating PPP2R1A target genes, with potential implications for improving VTE treatment efficacy.
CONCLUSION:
Our current findings offer a novel direction and serve as a theoretical foundation for identifying therapeutic targets in the treatment of VTE. Furthermore, these findings hold the potential to facilitate the translation of our research into clinical applications in the future.
Seismic Behaviour of Rcc Framed Buildings With Different Structural Framings
Authors: Ambrish G , K Chethan
Published: January 2024

Beam-slab, flat plate, and flat slab systems are commonly used structural systems. Reinforced concrete multistory buildings with large spans can reduce the number of columns needed to support the building, which can reduce cost and increase the useable space. The seismic resistance offered by a structure is primarily attributed to the combination of its elastic strength, damping capabilities, and inelastic deformability. This paper compares the seismic performance of four different structural systems in a medium-rise reinforced concrete building with a fixed base. The four selected structural forms for a fixed-base reinforced concrete building are subjected to a set of selected earthquakes and analyzed using nonlinear time history analysis to study the seismic response parameters, such as the time period, base shear, peak roof displacement, and peak roof acceleration, for soil type hard in seismic zone v as per BIS code 1893–2016(Part 1).
Analysis of Losses in a Three-Port High-Frequency Transformer Under Different Frequencies and Load Conditions
Authors: Arizaga Francisco J. , Ramirez Juan M. , Alcalá Janeth A. , Rojas Armando G , Sabory Rafael A.
Published: January 2024

Conventional transformers exhibit losses due to their intrinsic electrical resistance. In contrast, high-frequency transformers provide the advantage of notably decreasing these losses due to the significantly lower currents flowing through the conductors. Moreover, in high-frequency transformers, the losses in the magnetic cores are often reduced because of decreased eddy currents and hysteresis. This article analyzes the losses incurred by a multiport transformer due to fluctuations in operation frequencies and loads applied to its outputs. An analysis of voltage drop variations is conducted under two distinct circumstances. In the first case, there are two load ports and one power supply port. In the second situation, one of the ports is converted into a power source, creating a transformer with two inputs and one output. An extensive analysis of the high-frequency core’s behavior is conducted, which includes a meticulous assessment of hysteresis losses and operational conditions for each scenario. This study entails a quantitative assessment of variations under different load conditions. Three-dimensional (3-D) finite element experimental measurements and finite element analysis (FEA) findings 1 are employed to demonstrate the above instances. This work analyzes how various transformer topologies, including the triple active bridge (TAB), affect the physical and electrical properties. Consequently, it enhances understanding and enables more efficient design of these devices for power electronic transformers (PET).
Precision in Pursuit: A Multi-Consistency Joint Approach for Infrared Anti-UAV Tracking
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Lin Yi , Zhou Xin , Shi Pangrong , Zhu Xiaoqiang , Zeng Dan
Published: January 2024

In addition to addressing the issues commonly encountered in generic visual object tracking, Anti-UAV tracking endeavors necessitates coping with the diminutive characteristics of infrared UAV targets, potential discontinuities of targets between adjacent frames due to irregular motion patterns and camera rotations, and the occurrence of drastic target deformations. To effectively tackle these challenges, we present a multi-consistency joint approach tailored for infrared Anti-UAV tracking. The concept of consistency is realized across three pivotal perspectives: Firstly, by acknowledging the inherent motion consistency of targets, we introduce the Robust Motion Constraint Module (RMCM). This module effectively mitigates tracking drift issues and enhances the precision of local tracking by imposing constraints on the position and size variations of the tracked results through an adaptive cost matrix. Secondly, we design the Flexible Spatial Remapping Module (FSRM) grounded in spatial consistency. This module facilitates the identification of correspondences between images in adjacent frames, effectively resolving the substantial target displacement arising from the relative motion between UAVs and cameras. Lastly, we propose the Adaptive Template Update Strategy (ATUS) to address the challenge of significant target deformations. This strategy dynamically selects alternate templates to ensure feature consistency, thereby maintaining stable tracking even in the face of drastic pose changes. The experimental results on benchmark datasets unequivocally demonstrate that our approach achieves promising advancements compared to state-of-the-art models. We will make our code publicly available upon the acceptance of our paper.
Completely Independent Spanning Trees in Eisenstein-Jacobi Networks
Authors: Hussain Zaid , AlAzemi Fawaz , AlBdaiwi Bader
Published: January 2024

In this work, we propose construction algorithms to build Completely Independent Spanning Trees (CIST) in EJ networks with time complexity of $O(n)$, where $n$ is the total number of nodes in the network. We present a sequential and a parallel CISTs construction algorithms. Their communication complexities are $O(d)$ and $O(1)$, respectively, $d$ is the tree depth. Based on the constructed CISTs, we developed a novel fault-tolerant communication algorithm that can be used for routing, broadcasting, and secure message distribution with $O(n)$ time complexity. Simulation results of our work illustrate the average of maximum number of steps required to deliver a message from the root node of any CIST to any destination in all trees. CISTs shows that it is more reliable than ISTs in terms of root node failure and node loads.
Do knowledge management and Key customer-focused enhances banks' performance and competitive advantage in Ethiopia?
Authors: Kant Shashi , Jabo Dawit , Borji Berhanu
Published: January 2024

The study explores how customer-focused strategies and efficient knowledge management methods of banks contribute to competitive advantage and eventually influence bank performance, drawing upon the resource-based view and customer association management theories. Data was gathered from a sample of commercial banks of Ethiopia in Dilla district through questionnaires utilizing a quantitative research approach, and structural equation modeling techniques were used for analysis. The findings demonstrated that Knowledge Management significantly and favorably affected Competitive Advantage, highlighting the need of efficiently managing knowledge assets. Nevertheless, it was discovered that there was no statistically significant association among Key Customer Focus/ Knowledge Management and Bank Performance and the mediating impacts of Competitive Advantage. Furthermore, investing into knowledge management techniques and encouraging a culture of learning may help banks become more innovative, streamline operations, and adapt to shifting market conditions.