bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D VIEW: Designing of a Deception from Distorted View-dependent Images and Explaining interaction with virtual World
Authors: Ali Syed Muhammad , Mahmood Zeeshan , Qadri Dr. Tahir
Published: August 2023

This paper presents an intuitive and interactive computer simulated augmented reality interface that gives the illusion of a 3D immersive environment. The projector displays a rendered virtual scene on a flat 2D surface (floor or table) based on the user’s viewpoint to create a head coupled perspective. The projected image is view-dependent which changes and deforms relative to user’s position in space. The nature of perspective projection is distorted and anamorphic such that the deformations in the image give an illusion of a virtual three dimensional holographic scene in which the objects are popping out or floating above the projection plane like real 3D objects. Also, the user can manipulate and interact with 3D objects in a virtual environment by controlling the position and orientation of 3D models, interacting with GUI incorporated in virtual scene and can view, move, manipulate and observe the details of objects from any angle naturally by using his hands. The head and hand tracking is achieved by a low cost 3D depth sensor ‘Kinect’. We describe the implementation of the system in OpenGL and Unity3D game engine. Stereoscopic 3D along with other enhancements are also introduced which further improves the 3D perception. The approach does not require head mounted displays or expensive 3D hologram projectors as it is based on perspective projection technique. Our experiments show the potential of the system providing users a powerful, realistic illusion of 3D.
Audible Tool for Color Identification Using Arduino UNO
Authors: Tabassum Shafia , Hussain Muddasir , Saleem Darakhshan M.
Published: August 2023

This hardware tool is designed for assistance and training for visually impaired people to identify the surrounding colored objects. Several researches are conducted all over the world to design advanced, reliable tool and techniques to support sightless individuals. This paper describes designing of a handheld device to assist visually impaired people for color identification via generated speech. Vision is one of the five senses which is essential for a human being to survive independently. All individuals acquire the external information through the visual coding entering into the eye. The light rays penetrate and stimulate vision receptors to execute the processing of image formation. In response, the brain is able to identify the object. Unfortunately, any accidents or visual disorders with age can restrict the ability to sight the external environment. A visually impaired person can identify the texture, shape and size of an object by touching. But the sense of touch does not permit color identification. This proposed wearable tool, aid mainly focuses on individuals who are unable to observe colors due to visual disorder. A hardware device is presented which generates the speech for color detection. In this proposed work RGB sensor is used to capture the color information of the entity. An Arduino UNO card is programmed using Arduino software 1.6.3 to enhance the signal. It generates a clear audible speech for the specific color of the object. The benefit of this device is low power battery operated, portable, safe and easy to handle.
Professori Lennart Simons ja Suomen ydinenergiateknologian alkuvaiheet
Authors: Ahlskog Markus
Published: August 2023

Suomen atomihistorian lähtölaukauksena pidetään energiakomitean perustamista vuonna 1955. Aloitteen siihen teki Suomen Akatemian puheenjohtaja, kemian Nobelin palkinnon vuonna 1945 voittanut A.I. Virtanen, ja komitean puheenjohtajaksi valittiin Teknillisen Korkeakoulun teknillisen fysiikan professori Erkki Laurila. Lähes kaikkialla maailmassa atomitekniikan tutkimusta johtivat ydinfysiikan asiantuntijat, kun taas Suomen ainoa ydinfyysikko, Helsingin yliopiston professori Lennart Simons ei osallistunut lainkaan energiakomitean työhön. Hän oli kuitenkin suomalaisen ydinfysiikan perustutkimuksen pioneeri ja näytteli merkittävää osaa, kun ydinfysiikan lääketieteellisiä sovellutuksia alettiin ottaa Suomessa käyttöön. Kokonaan unohduksiin on jäänyt nk. Simonsin juttu, jossa Helsingin yliopisto syytti Simonsia väärinkäytöksistä virassaan ja valtion varojen kavaltamisesta. Syyte johti Simonsin viralta pidättämiseen. Hän sai varsin lievän tuomion rikkeistään. Oikeusjuttu oli käynnissä silloin, kun energiakomiteaa perustettiin, ja Simons sai palata virkaansa vasta yli puoli vuotta energiakomitean asettamisen jälkeen.
Tekniikan taitekohtia ja maailman mullistuksia
Authors: Turunen Olli
Published: August 2023

Esipuhe, Tekniikan Waiheita 41, nro. 1 (2023).
Using Promotional Strategies to Increase the Use of Miswak among Teenagers in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzhrani Hayat Goman
Published: August 2023

Miswak is a chewing stick that has been used in Muslim communities across the world for over 1,500 years as an oral hygiene aid. There is evidence to support its clinical effectiveness in plaque management when used alone or in conjunction with a conventional toothbrush. However, evidence of its deleterious effects on periodontal health is equivocal. To study culturally acceptable strategies for promoting oral health practices and preventing illness among adolescents in Saudi Arabia, advertisements were assessed for their ability to engage and open up new communication channels for oral health messages. The aim is to encourage adolescents to adopt the habit of using miswak to improve their oral hygiene, wherever they may be. The data for this study was collected from 116 teenage respondents from Saudi Arabia. The mean age of the study participants was 16.66 ± 0.943 years, with a median age of 17 and a range from 12 to 17. The study included 66 males (56.9%) and 50 females (43.1%). Furthermore, the overall mean assessments of both advertisements were negative due to several problems with the design and use of pictures in the ads. The analysis of this study show that a more standardised method of advertisement is required to properly gain the attention of this generation of adolescents in Saudi Arabia. In addition, the individuals who took part in the research believed that social media is the most suitable venue for conveying messages promoting miswak. To be able to communicate effectively about oral health messaging, one must first have a solid understanding of the advertising messages that are relevant to oral health, as well as the influence of religion. Another prerequisite for the creation of effective advertising is knowledge of media platforms and the impacts that these platforms have on the behaviour of teenagers. Successful communication could make youths in Saudi Arabia likelier to use miswak.
Brain Microstructure and Brain Function Changes in Space Headache by Head-Down-Tilted Bed Rest
Authors: Goto Masayuki , Shibata Yasushi , Ishiyama Sumire , Matsumaru Yuji , Ishikawa Eiichi
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION: Several astronauts have experienced severe headaches during spaceflight, but no studies have examined the associated brain microstructure and functional changes. Head-down-tilted bed rest (HDBR) is a well-established method for studying the physical effects of microgravity
on the ground. In this study, we analyzed the changes in brain microstructure and function during headache caused by HDBR using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (R-fMRI).METHODS: We imaged 28 healthy subjects with DTI and R-fMRI
in the horizontal supine position and HDBR. Using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics, fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, radial diffusivity, and axial diffusivity were compared between the headache and non-headache groups. Additionally, an analysis of functional connectivity (FC) was performed,
followed by a correlation analysis between FC and numerical rating scale.RESULTS: HDBR caused headaches in 21 of 28 subjects. DTI analysis showed no significant change in fractional anisotropy after HDBR, whereas axial diffusivity, radial diffusivity, and mean diffusivity increased
significantly. R-fMRI analysis showed a significant decrease in FC in several areas after HDBR. The headache group showed significantly higher FC before HDBR, and both groups showed higher FC after HDBR. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between FC and numerical rating scale
before HDBR but negative after HDBR.DISCUSSION: We demonstrated the image change in the acute phase of space headache by HDBR using DTI and R-fMRI. Changes in brain microstructure and function specific to patients developing headaches may be evaluated by imaging.Goto M, Shibata
Y, Ishiyama S, Matsumaru Y, Ishikawa E. Brain microstructure and brain function changes in space headache by head-down-tilted bed rest. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(9):678–685.
An American Perspective on the Legacy of Anatoly I. Grigoriev in Space Medicine
Authors: Nicogossian Arnauld E. , Doarn Charles R.
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION: Academician Anatoly Ivanovich Grigoriev was a physician, member of the Russian Academy of Sciences Presidium, and a celebrated leader of science in the Soviet Union and Russia—but in the United States, he will be remembered as a friend and mentor. His contributions
to space and medicine of extreme environments had a profound impact on human space exploration. He fostered collaboration in many areas of space–human factors, especially in the areas of renal function, endocrinology, and fluids and electrolytes. The joint efforts between NASA and the
Soviet/Russian Space Program constitute the foundation for mutual respect and scientific endeavors that continue to transcend the world’s political events.DISCUSSION: This article briefly summarizes Grigoriev’s contributions in our long and historical collaboration in
human spaceflight. Multiple sources were used, with much drawn from firsthand knowledge through our personal interfaces and working collaboration.Nicogossian AE, Doarn CR. An American perspective on the legacy of Anatoly I. Grigoriev in space medicine. Aerosp Med Hum Perform.
2023; 94(9):723–727.
A statistical examination of utilization trends in decentralized applications
Authors: Bärtl Mathias
Published: August 2023

Decentralized applications (dApp) have proliferated in recent years, but their long-term viability is a topic of debate. However, for dApps to be sustainable, and suitable for integration into a larger service networks, they need to attract users and promise reliable availability. Therefore, assessing their longevity is crucial. Analyzing the utilization trajectory of a service is, however, challenging due to several factors, such as demand spikes, noise, autocorrelation, and non-stationarity. In this study, we employ robust statistical techniques to identify trends in currently popular dApps. Our findings demonstrate that a significant proportion of dApps, across a range of categories, exhibit statistically significant positive overall trends, indicating that success in decentralized computing can be sustainable and transcends specific fields. However, there is also a substantial number of dApps showing negative trends, with a disproportionately high number from the decentralized finance (DeFi) category. Furthermore, a more detailed inspection of time series segments shows a clearly diminishing proportion of positive trends from mid-2021 to the present. In summary, we conclude that the dApp economy might have lost some momentum, and that there is a strong element of uncertainty regarding its future significance.
Molecular basis of the glycosomal targeting of PEX11 and its mislocalization to mitochondrion in trypanosomes
Authors: Krishna Chethan K. , Schmidt Nadine , Tippler Bettina G. , Schliebs Wolfgang , Jung Martin , Winklhofer Konstanze F. , Erdmann Ralf , Kalel Vishal C.
Published: August 2023

PEX19 binding sites are essential parts of the targeting signals of peroxisomal membrane proteins (mPTS). In this study, we characterized PEX19 binding sites of PEX11, the most abundant peroxisomal and glycosomal membrane protein from Trypanosoma brucei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. TbPEX11 contains two PEX19 binding sites, one close to the N-terminus (BS1) and a second in proximity to the first transmembrane domain (BS2). The N-terminal BS1 is highly conserved across different organisms and is required for maintenance of the steady-state concentration and efficient targeting to peroxisomes and glycosomes in both baker’s yeast and Trypanosoma brucei. The second PEX19 binding site in TbPEX11 is essential for its glycosomal localization. Deletion or mutations of the PEX19 binding sites in TbPEX11 or ScPEX11 results in mislocalization of the proteins to mitochondria. Bioinformatic analysis indicates that the N-terminal region of TbPEX11 contains an amphiphilic helix and several putative TOM20 recognition motifs. We show that the extreme N-terminal region of TbPEX11 contains a cryptic N-terminal signal that directs PEX11 to the mitochondrion if its glycosomal transport is blocked.
The emerging role of E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF213 as an antimicrobial host determinant
Authors: Zhang Yulu , Yuan Yupei , Jiang Lu , Liu Yihan , Zhang Leiliang
Published: August 2023

Ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) is a large E3 ubiquitin ligase with a molecular weight of 591 kDa that is associated with moyamoya disease, a rare cerebrovascular disease. It is located in the cytosol and perinuclear space. Missense mutations in this gene have been found to be more prevalent in patients with moyamoya disease compared with that in healthy individuals. Understanding the molecular function of RNF213 could provide insights into moyamoya disease. RNF213 contains a C3HC4-type RING finger domain with an E3 ubiquitin ligase domain and six AAA+ adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) domains. It is the only known protein with both AAA+ ATPase and ubiquitin ligase activities. Recent studies have highlighted the role of RNF213 in fighting against microbial infections, including viruses, parasites, bacteria, and chlamydiae. This review aims to summarize the recent research progress on the mechanisms of RNF213 in pathogenic infections, which will aid researchers in understanding the antimicrobial role of RNF213.
Anti-parasitic drug discovery against Babesia microti by natural compounds: an extensive computational drug design approach
Authors: Akash Shopnil , Hosen Md. Eram , Mahmood Sajjat , Supti Sumaiya Jahan , Kumer Ajoy , Sultana Shamima , Jannat Sultana , Bayıl Imren , Nafidi Hiba-Allah , Jardan Yousef A. Bin , Mekonnen Amare Bitew , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: August 2023

Tick-borne Babesiosis is a parasitic infection caused by Babesia microti that can infect both animals and humans and may spread by tick, blood transfusions, and organ transplantation. The current therapeutic options for B. microti are limited, and drug resistance is a concern. This study proposes using computational drug design approaches to find and design an effective drug against B. microti. The study investigated the potentiality of nine natural compounds against the pathogenic human B. microti parasite and identified Vasicinone and Evodiamine as the most promising drugs. The ligand structures were optimized using density functional theory, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, quantum mechanics such as HOMO–LUMO, drug-likeness and theoretical absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET), and pharmacokinetics characteristics performed. The results showed that Vasicinone (−8.6 kcal/mol and −7.8 kcal/mol) and Evodiamine (−8.7 kcal/mol and −8.5 kcal/mol) had the highest binding energy and anti-parasitic activity against B. microti lactate dehydrogenase and B. microti lactate dehydrogenase apo form. The strongest binding energy was reported by Vasicinone and Evodiamine; the compounds were evaluated through molecular dynamics simulation at 100 ns, and their stability when they form complexes with the targeted receptors was determined. Finally, the pkCSM web server is employed to predict the ADMET qualities of specific molecules, which can help prevent negative effects that arise from taking the treatment. The SwissADME web server is used to assess the Lipinski rule of five and drug-likeness properties including topological polar surface area and bioavailability. The Lipinski rule is used to estimate significant drug-likeness. The theoretical pharmacokinetics analysis and drug-likeness of the selected compounds are confirmed to be accepted by the Lipinski rule and have better ADMET features. Thus, to confirm their experimental value, these mentioned molecules should be suggested to carry out in wet lab, pre-clinical, and clinical levels.
Clay mineral transformation mechanism modelling of shale reservoir in Da’anzhai Member, Sichuan Basin, Southern China
Authors: Yang Leilei , Lu Longfei , Li Xiaowei , Shan Yansheng , Mo Chenchen , Sun Meng , Hu Jing , Liu Weibin , Liang Baoxing , Xu Jin
Published: August 2023

Shale reservoirs often undergo intense clay mineral transformation, which plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of pores. The reservoir lithofacies types of Da’anzhai Member in the Sichuan Basin are complex, the heterogeneity is strong, and the transformation mechanism of clay minerals is unclear, limiting the understanding of reservoir diagenesis and reservoir formation mechanism. In this study, we selected the typical shale reservoir in the Da’anzhai Member of the eastern Sichuan Basin and innovatively introduced the multiphase fluid-chemical-thermal multi-field coupled numerical simulation technique to focus on the dissolution, precipitation and transformation laws of diagenetic minerals in the shale reservoir. We calculated the transformation of diagenetic minerals and their physical response under different temperatures, pressure and fluid conditions and identified the main controlling factors of mineral transformation in shale reservoirs in the study area. The results show that the transformation of smectite to illite in the Da’anzhai Member is a complex physicochemical process influenced by various factors such as temperature, pressure, fluid, and lithology. The increase in temperature can promote illitization until the critical temperature of 110°C–115°C, below which the conversion rate of smectite to illite increases as the temperature increases. However, when it is higher than the critical temperature, the degree of illitization decreases. In specific K-rich fluids, organic acids significantly affect the conversion of clay minerals in the Da’anzhai Member of the formation. The acidic fluid promotes the dissolution of minerals such as K-feldspar and releases K+, thus provides the material basis for illitization. The research results provide theoretical support for the diagenetic and formation mechanism of the shale reservoir in the Da’anzhai Member of the Sichuan Basin and even for the efficient exploration and development of shale gas.
Common education in schools. Gauging potentials for democratic transformation: a case study from Greece
Authors: Kioupkiolis Alexandros
Published: August 2023

This article examines how educational commons, in which teaching and learning are shaped by the entire educational community on terms of equal freedom, contribute to democratic empowerment and renewal. Intervening in the critical debate over public formal education and the scope it allows for radical democratization, discussion draws on a case study conducted in the self-organized school Solidarity School Mesopotamia in Moschato, Athens, Greece.

The Solidarity School is an informal tutoring or supplementary tuition school which is attached to the formal high school curriculum. One of its main objectives is to support students for the courses they attend in public schools and to prepare them for public school and university entrance exams. This attachment foists constraints on education, however, the commons-based organization and the alter-political nature of the school put a crucial twist on educational practice. This generates considerable transformative effects which are reflected markedly in the ambiance of teaching and learning.

The School promotes socio-economic and political equality not only by providing free tuition to students whose families may not be able to afford private supplementary teaching and might not be able thus to enter university or to learn foreign languages. The School nourishes also a culture of equal freedom, solidarity and civic engagement which refashions the hegemonic habitus of consumerist individualism, passivity and submission to socio-political hierarchies.

The article argues thus that there is room for educational commons and democratic transformation even in structures which remain tailored to formal schooling but refigure educational hierarchies and modes of governance, infusing education with an alternative democratic ethos of solidarity, equal freedom and grassroots self-organization.
Effects of hyperthyroidism and diabetes mellitus on spermatogenesis in peri- and post-pubertal mice
Authors: Shi Hanhao , Korejo Nazar Ali , Kamboh Asghar Ali , Korejo Rashid Ali , Shi Fangxiong
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Diabetes and thyroid dysfunction often co-exist. One autoimmune disorder always invites another and it has been reported that such co-morbid ailments always become detrimental to the health of the patients.

Materials and methods

In our previous work, we elucidated the interactions of diabetes and hypothyroidism on testicular development and spermatogenesis. However, the present study illuminates the interface between diabetes and hyperthyroidism, where 16 ICR pregnant primiparous mice were used and subsequently 48 male pups were randomly selected (n=12/group) and separated into 4 groups: control (C), diabetic (D), diabetic + hyperthyroidism (DH) and hyperthyroidism (H).

Results

Computerized sperm analyses showed significant reductions in count by 20% and increases of 15% in D and H animals, respectively, vs. controls. However, rapid progressive sperm motility was significantly lower only in D (30%) compared with C mice. Our histomorphometric investigation depicted damaging effects on testicular and epididymal tissues; the stroma adjacent to the seminiferous tubules of the D mice revealed edematous fluid and unstructured material. However, in the epididymis, germ cell diminution contraction of tubules, compacted principal and clear cells, lipid vacuolization, atypical cellular connections, exfoliated epithelial cells, and round spermatids were conspicuous in DH mice.

Discussion

Collectively, our experiment was undertaken to ultimately better recognize male reproductive disorders in diabetic-hyperthyroid patients.
Decreased oocyte quality in patients with endometriosis is closely related to abnormal granulosa cells
Authors: Fan Weisen , Yuan Zheng , Li Muzhen , Zhang Yingjie , Nan Fengjuan
Published: August 2023

Infertility and menstrual abnormalities in endometriosis patients are frequently caused by aberrant follicular growth or a reduced ovarian reserve. Endometriosis typically does not directly harm the oocyte, but rather inhibits the function of granulosa cells, resulting in a decrease in oocyte quality. Granulosa cells, as oocyte nanny cells, can regulate meiosis, provide the most basic resources required for oocyte development, and influence ovulation. Endometriosis affects oocyte development and quality by causing granulosa cells apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, steroid synthesis obstacle, and aberrant mitochondrial energy metabolism. These aberrant states frequently interact with one another, however there is currently relatively little research in this field to understand the mechanism of linkage between abnormal states.
Can command-and-control policy drive low-carbon transition in energy-intensive enterprises? -a study based on evolutionary game theory
Authors: Zhou Chunxi , Han Yang , Zhang Ruiqi
Published: August 2023

There are two views on whether command-and-control policy can promote carbon emission reduction: the “compliance cost” theory and the “innovation compensation” theory. In this paper, we construct an evolutionary game model among energy-intensive enterprises, verification agencies, and local governments from the game theory perspective to explore the impact of command-and-control policy on the low-carbon transition of energy-intensive enterprises. The interaction mechanism of the three actors and the main factors affecting the low-carbon transition of the enterprises are further analyzed with the help of the MATLAB simulation method. The study results show that command-and-control policies can promote the low-carbon transition of enterprises and have a suppressive effect on bribery behavior. In the actual game process, enterprises will compare the cost of low-carbon transition with that of no low-carbon transition. The cost of low-carbon transition is higher when the government’s incentives and penalties are small, so there is a “compliance cost” effect, and the government cannot promote low-carbon transition by increasing the intensity of regulation. On the contrary, when the government’s incentives and penalties are strong enough, enterprises will make a low-carbon transition spontaneously in the face of continuously increasing environmental regulation intensity, which supports the theory of “innovation compensation.” In addition, increasing the profitability of product sales and increasing the cost of bribes are also effective ways to promote low-carbon transition. Finally, relevant policy recommendations were proposed based on the main conclusions. This work opens up a new perspective for environmental regulation theory and provides a theoretical reference and practical basis for developing low-carbon transition.
The effects of dunite fertilization on growth and elemental composition of barley and wheat differ with dunite grain size and rainfall regimes
Authors: Rijnders Jet , Vicca Sara , Struyf Eric , Amann Thorben , Hartmann Jens , Meire Patrick , Janssens Ivan , Schoelynck Jonas
Published: August 2023

Enhanced weathering (EW) of silicate rocks is a negative emission technology that captures CO2 from the atmosphere. Olivine (Mg2SiO4) is a fast weathering silicate mineral that can be used for EW and is abundant in dunite rock. In addition to CO2 sequestration, EW also has co-benefits in an agricultural context. Adding silicate minerals to soils can significantly improve crop health and growth as the weathering releases elements such as silicon (Si) that can stimulate crop growth and increase stress resistance, a co-benefit that is becoming increasingly important as global warming proceeds. However, dunite also contains heavy metals, especially nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr), potentially limiting its use in an agricultural context. In this study, we investigate the influence of dunite addition on growth of barley and wheat in a mesocosm experiment. We amended the soil with the equivalent of 220 ton ha-1 dunite, using two grain sizes (p80 = 1020 µm and p80 = 43.5 µm), under two rainfall regimes (each receiving the same amount of 800 mm water y−1 but at daily versus weekly rainfall frequency). Our results indicate that the amendment of fine dunite increased leaf biomass but only with daily rainfall. Aboveground biomass was significantly reduced with weekly rainfall compared to daily rainfall, but this reduction was slightly alleviated by fine dunite application for wheat. This indicates a positive effect of dunite during drying-rewetting cycles. For barley the negative effect of reduced rainfall frequency was not counterbalanced by dunite application. Contrary to our expectations, calcium (Ca) and Si concentrations in crops decreased with fine dunite application, while, as expected, magnesium (Mg) concentration increased. Coarse dunite application did not significantly affect crop nutrient concentrations, most likely due to its lower weathering rate. In contrast to what was expected, plant Ni and Cr concentrations did not increase with dunite application. Hence, despite high dunite application in our experiment, plants did not accumulate these heavy metals, and only benefited from the released nutrients, albeit dependent on grain size and rainfall frequency.
Identification of shared biological features in four different lung cell lines infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus through RNA-seq analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Ahn Seungjun , Qiu Peihua , Datta Somnath
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in millions of confirmed cases and deaths worldwide. Understanding the biological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial for the development of effective therapies. This study conducts differential expression (DE) analysis, pathway analysis, and differential network (DN) analysis on RNA-seq data of four lung cell lines, NHBE, A549, A549.ACE2, and Calu3, to identify their common and unique biological features in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. DE analysis shows that cell line A549.ACE2 has the highest number of DE genes, while cell line NHBE has the lowest. Among the DE genes identified for the four cell lines, 12 genes are overlapped, associated with various health conditions. The most significant signaling pathways varied among the four cell lines. Only one pathway, “cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction”, is found to be significant among all four cell lines and is related to inflammation and immune response. The DN analysis reveals considerable variation in the differential connectivity of the most significant pathway shared among the four lung cell lines. These findings help to elucidate the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and potential therapeutic targets.
Clinical features and morphology of collagen fibrils in patients with vascular Ehlers–Danlos based on electron microscopy
Authors: Ishikawa Satoko , Hayashi Shujiro , Sairenchi Toshimi , Miyamoto Manabu , Yoshihara Shigemi , Kobashi Gen , Yamaguchi Tomomi , Kosho Tomoki , Igawa Ken
Published: August 2023

Background: Vascular-type Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is caused by collagen III deficit resulting from heterogeneous mutations in COL3A1, which occasionally causes sudden death due to arterial/visceral rupture. However, it is difficult to conduct basic research on the pathophysiology of vEDS. Moreover, the number of patients with vEDS is small, limiting the number of available samples. Furthermore, the symptoms of vEDS may vary among family members, even if they share the same mutation. Accordingly, many aspects of the pathology of vEDS remain unknown. Therefore, we investigated the structural abnormalities in collagen fibrils and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in skin samples using electron microscopy as well as their relationship with clinical symptoms in 30 patients with vEDS (vEDS group) and 48 patients without vEDS (disease-negative control group).

Methods: Differences between the two groups were evaluated in terms of the sizes of collagen fibrils using coefficient of variation (COV).

Results: COV was found to be significantly higher in the vEDS group than in the disease-negative control group, indicating irregularity in the size of collagen fibrils. However, in the vEDS group, some patients had low COV and seldom experienced serious complications and ER stress.

Conclusion: ER stress might affect collagen fibril-composing proteins. Moreover, as this stress varies among people based on environmental factors and aging, it may be the underlying cause of varying vEDS symptoms.
The magnitude of precancerous cervical lesions and its associated factors among women screened for cervical cancer at a referral center in southern Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tenkir Lidiya , Mamuye Abyalew , Jemebere Wegene , Yeheyis Tomas
Published: August 2023

Background

Cervical cancer is the most prevalent gynecologic cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Africa's southern, eastern, and western regions have the highest rates of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is treatable and curable when detected early, but it is nonetheless fatal in low- and middle-income (LMIC) nations where screening and early detection are not widely accessible.

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the magnitude of precancerous cervical lesions and their associated factor among women screened for cervical cancer at a referral center in southern Ethiopia, in 2021.

Methods

A retrospective institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 21 to April 14, 2022, among randomly selected 372 records of women screened for cervical cancer at Hawassa University Specialized Hospital. Data were extracted from clients' charts using a data extraction checklist. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 and logistic regression analysis were applied to determine the association between dependent and independent variables, and significance was declared at p-value <0.05.

Results

The magnitude of abnormal cervical dysplasia in this study was 18.3% of which 14% were precancerous cervical lesions and 4.3% were cervical cancer. Early coitarche: Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 5.6 [95% (confidence interval) CI = 1.87–16.78], having more than one sexual partner: AOR = 2.6 [95% CI = 1.2–5.68], being HIV positive: AOR = 3.56 [95% CI = 1.53–8.29], and having sexually transmitted infections: AOR = 4.64 [95% CI = 2.08–10.35] were independent predictors of precancerous cervical lesions.

Conclusion

The magnitude of precancerous cervical lesions in the study setting is 18% and the magnitude of cervical cancer is 14%, which is higher than the pooled prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions in Ethiopia. Having multiple sexual partners, being HIV positive, having sexual intercourse before 21 years, and new STI diagnosis was independently associated with abnormal precancerous cervical lesions.
The effectiveness of shockwave therapy on patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and plantar fasciitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Charles Ravon , Fang Lei , Zhu Ranran , Wang Jinxiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Tendinopathy is a growing global concern affecting many people, like athletes, workers, and the elderly. Despite its commonality among the sporting population, there is no practical clinical guideline for patellar tendinopathy (PT). Furthermore, there is conflicting evidence between clinical guidelines on shockwave therapy’s application and clinical utility for Achilles tendinopathy (AT) and plantar fasciitis (PF). Thus, our aim of this study is to evaluate the evidence for shockwave therapy; to provide a Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) level of the evidence and effectiveness of shockwave therapy for patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and Plantar fasciitis.

Method

Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Embase, The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure database (CNKI) were searched to find relevant studies published before December 14th, 2022.

Results

Our study showed that for PT in the short term, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) or ESWT + eccentric exercise (EE) has a negligible effect on pain and function compared to a placebo or placebo + EE. On the contrary, ESWT significantly affects pain compared to conservative treatment (CT). For AT, ESWT has a small inconclusive effect on pain and function in the short term compared to EE. On the other hand, a placebo outperformed ESWT in improving function for AT but not pain outcomes. PF showed that ESWT significantly affects short- and long-term pain and function. When ESWT was compared to other interventions such as low laser therapy (LLLT), corticosteroid injection (CSI), or CT, there was a small inconclusive effect on pain and function in the short term.

Conclusion

There is low-moderate evidence that ESWT has a negligible effect on pain and function for PT and AT. However, high-quality evidence suggests ESWT has a large effect on pain and function for PF.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023396835, identifier CRD42023396835.
Effect of seasonal coronavirus immune imprinting on the immunogenicity of inactivated COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Yin Di , Han Zirong , Lang Bing , Li Yanjun , Mai Guoqin , Chen Hongbiao , Feng Liqiang , Chen Yao-qing , Luo Huanle , Xiong Yaming , Jing Lin , Du Xiangjun , Shu Yuelong , Sun Caijun
Published: August 2023

Background

Pre-existing cross-reactive immunity among different coronaviruses, also termed immune imprinting, may have a comprehensive impact on subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination effectiveness. Here, we aim to explore the interplay between pre-existing seasonal coronaviruses (sCoVs) antibodies and the humoral immunity induced by COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods

We first collected serum samples from healthy donors prior to COVID-19 pandemic and individuals who had received COVID-19 vaccination post-pandemic in China, and the levels of IgG antibodies against sCoVs and SARS-CoV-2 were detected by ELISA. Wilcoxon rank sum test and chi-square test were used to compare the difference in magnitude and seropositivity rate between two groups. Then, we recruited a longitudinal cohort to collect serum samples before and after COVID-19 vaccination. The levels of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 S, S1, S2 and N antigen were monitored. Association between pre-existing sCoVs antibody and COVID-19 vaccination-induced antibodies were analyzed by Spearman rank correlation.

Results

96.0% samples (339/353) showed the presence of IgG antibodies against at least one subtype of sCoVs. 229E and OC43 exhibited the highest seroprevalence rates at 78.5% and 72.0%, respectively, followed by NL63 (60.9%) and HKU1 (52.4%). The levels of IgG antibodies against two β coronaviruses (OC43 and HKU1) were significantly higher in these donors who had inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines compared to pre-pandemic healthy donors. However, we found that COVID-19 vaccine-induced antibody levels were not significant different between two groups with high levelor low level of pre-existing sCoVs antibody among the longitudinal cohort.

Conclusion

We found a high prevalence of antibodies against sCoVs in Chinese population. The immune imprinting by sCoVs could be reactivated by COVID-19 vaccination, but it did not appear to be a major factor affecting the immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccine. These findings will provide insights into understanding the impact of immune imprinting on subsequent multiple shots of COVID-19 vaccines.
Two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy of NADH metabolism in HIV-1 infected cells and tissues
Authors: Snyder Greg A. , Kumar Sameer , Lewis George K. , Ray Krishanu
Published: August 2023

Rapid detection of microbial-induced cellular changes during the course of an infection is critical to understanding pathogenesis and immunological homeostasis. In the last two decades, fluorescence imaging has received significant attention for its ability to help characterize microbial induced cellular and tissue changes in in vitro and in vivo settings. However, most of these methods rely on the covalent conjugation of large exogenous probes and detection methods based on intensity-based imaging. Here, we report a quantitative, intrinsic, label-free, and minimally invasive method based on two-photon fluorescence lifetime (FLT) imaging microscopy (2p-FLIM) for imaging 1,4-dihydro-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) metabolism of virally infected cells and tissue sections. To better understand virally induced cellular and tissue changes in metabolism we have used 2p-FLIM to study differences in NADH intensity and fluorescence lifetimes in HIV-1 infected cells and tissues. Differences in NADH fluorescence lifetimes are associated with cellular changes in metabolism and changes in cellular metabolism are associated with HIV-1 infection. NADH is a critical co-enzyme and redox regulator and an essential biomarker in the metabolic processes. Label-free 2p-FLIM application and detection of NADH fluorescence using viral infection systems are in their infancy. In this study, the application of the 2p-FLIM assay and quantitative analyses of HIV-1 infected cells and tissue sections reveal increased fluorescence lifetime and higher enzyme-bound NADH fraction suggesting oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) compared to uninfected cells and tissues. 2p-FLIM measurements improve signal to background, fluorescence specificity, provide spatial and temporal resolution of intracellular structures, and thus, are suitable for quantitative studies of cellular functions and tissue morphology. Furthermore, 2p-FLIM allows distinguishing free and bound populations of NADH by their different fluorescence lifetimes within single infected cells. Accordingly, NADH fluorescence measurements of individual single cells should provide necessary insight into the heterogeneity of metabolic activity of infected cells. Implementing 2p-FLIM to viral infection systems measuring NADH fluorescence at the single or subcellular level within a tissue can provide visual evidence, localization, and information in a real-time diagnostic or therapeutic metabolic workflow.
Marsdenia tenacissima enhances immune response of tumor infiltrating T lymphocytes to colorectal cancer
Authors: Yi Ben , Zhang Shuai , Yan Suying , Liu Yanfei , Feng Zhiqiang , Chu Tianhao , Liu Jun , Wang Wei , Xue Jun , Zhang Chunze , Wang Yijia
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment are critical factors influencing the prognosis and chemotherapy outcomes. As a Chinese herbal medicine, Marsdenia tenacissima extract (MTE) has been widely used to treat cancer in China. Its immunoregulatory effects on tumor-associated macrophages is well known, but whether it regulates tumor-infiltrating T-cell functions remains unclear.

Method

We collected 17 tumor samples from MTE-administered colorectal cancer patients, 13 of which showed upregulation of CD3+/CD8+ tumor-infiltrating T cells. Further in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to investigate the regulatory effects of MTE on tumor-infiltrating T cells and immune escape of tumors.

Results

Under single and co-culture conditions, MTE inhibited TGF-β1 and PD-L1 expression in the colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines HCT116 and LoVo. In Jurkat cells, MTE inhibited FOXP3 and IL-10 expression, increased IL-2 expression, but had no effect on PD-1 expression. These findings were confirmed in vitro using subcutaneous and colitis-associated CRC mouse models. MTE also increased the density of CD3+/CD8+ tumor-infiltrating T cells and exhibited considerable tumor-suppressive effects in these two tumor mouse models.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that MTE inhibits the immune escape of cancer cells, a precipitating factor increasing the immune response of T lymphocytes.
Implementing an ecosystem oceanography program to increase capacity and preparedness for dynamic ocean management and fishery challenges
Authors: Wells Brian K. , Santora Jarrod A.
Published: August 2023

Building resilience in coastal resources and related communities is improved by a holistic ecosystem research approach for integrating socioecological system components; a key challenge in this process is capturing dynamic interactions between components. We present an application of ecosystem oceanography to address goals of marine conservation and management, including climate readiness and supporting a blue economy. Treating the ecosystem as the sample unit is fundamental to our research program. Specifically, spatiotemporal structure of relationships among taxa themselves is the study subject, not the individual members. Our approach outlines four steps toward successful implementation: 1) Build a conceptual ecosystem-oceanography model informed by previous science and human dimensions research to test hypotheses and identify gaps in our understanding; 2) Design survey and adaptive monitoring efforts, including data sharing protocols, to capture the spatiotemporal processes of ecosystem structure; 3) Use diet data and spatiotemporal variability in trophic interactions to quantify processes influencing ecosystem function, including persistent hotspots of abundance, biodiversity, and trophic transfer; 4) Link empirically-determined processes to improve parameterization of biophysical models to enable evaluation of ecosystem structure and functionality retrospectively and prospectively. Accomplishing these objectives requires a transdisciplinary team and will enable evaluation of specific management goals, develop indicators for tracking progress towards meeting them, and carry out scenario evaluation under near-term and long-term scenarios that explore key uncertainties (e.g., future climate and policy directions). We apply this four-step approach to identify key drivers for recent ecosystem and fishery surprises in the California Current Ecosystem. We propose this approach offers a means for anticipating future ecosystem states and increasing preparedness and capacity to overcome fishery surprises, and in doing so supporting the development of management approaches that are robust to uncertainty.
Application of PGD separation of space to create a reduced-order model of a lithium-ion cell structure
Authors: Schmid Alexander , Pasquale Angelo , Ellersdorfer Christian , Ziane Mustapha , Raffler Marco , Champaney Victor , Feist Florian , Chinesta Francisco
Published: August 2023

Lithium-ion cells can be considered a laminate of thin plies comprising the anode, separator, and cathode. Lithium-ion cells are vulnerable toward out-of-plane loading. When simulating such structures under out-of-plane mechanical loads, subordinate approaches such as shells or plates are sub-optimal because they are blind toward out-of-plane strains and stresses. On the other hand, the use of solid elements leads to limitations in terms of computational efficiency independent of the time integration method. In this paper, the bottlenecks of both (implicit and explicit) methods are discussed, and an alternative approach is shown. Proper generalized decomposition (PGD) is used for this purpose. This computational method makes it possible to divide the problem into the characteristic in-plane and out-of-plane behaviors. The separation of space achieved with this method is demonstrated on a static linearized problem of a lithium-ion cell structure. The results are compared with conventional solution approaches. Moreover, an in-plane/out-of-plane separated representation is also built using proper orthogonal decomposition (POD). This simply serves to compare the in-plane and out-of-plane behaviors estimated by the PGD and does not allow computational advantages relative to conventional techniques. Finally, the time savings and the resulting deviations are discussed.