bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Research of the American Cranberry (Oxycoccus macrocarpus (Ait.) Pursh) Leaves Extract and its Aminoacids Preparation with Hepatoprotective Activity
Authors: Коshovyi Oleh , Vlasova Inna , Jakstas Valdas , Vilkickyte Gabriele , Žvikas Vaidotas , Hrytsyk Roman , Grytsyk Lyubov , Raal Ain
Published: April 2023

The liver performs a fundamental role in the regulation of diverse physiological processes. Despite enormous advances in modern medicine, there are no completely effective drugs that stimulate hepatic function, offer complete protection to the organ, or aid in regenerating hepatic cells. Thus, it is necessary to identify alternative plant-origin pharmaceuticals more effective and less toxic for the treatment of hepatic diseases. The aim of this research was to establish the chemical composition of the American cranberry (Oxycoccus macrocarpus) leaves extract and its aminoacids preparations as well as their hepatoprotective activity. 19 phenolic compounds (8 flavonoids (flavones and flavonols), 4 anthocyanins, 2 catechins, and 3 hydroxycinnamic acids) and main amino acids (valine, arginine, glycine, histidine, aspartic acid, and taurine) were identified and quantified in the American cranberry (O. macrocarpus) leaves extract and its 7 aminoacids preparations. The therapeutic and prophylactic consumption of the American cranberry leaves extracts led to a decrease in the intensity of the lipid peroxidation process compared to the control pathology group in the experiment of acute toxic damage to the liver by tetrachloromethane on rats. The most pronounced hepatoprotective activity was established for the American cranberry leaves extracts’ preparations with arginine and valine.
Plaque Psoriasis: Effectiveness and Therapeutic Safety Using a Topical Cream of Natural Origin Quasi–experimental Clinical Trial
Authors: Benites Elizabeth Maria , Carrillo Esmeralda , Heras Martha
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease. The objective was to elaborate a cream with natural products and salicylic acid. Hypothesis: ¿Will the topical cream made from natural products reduce the characteristic clinical signs of psoriasis? Methodology: Quasi-experimental clinical trial, in 100 healthy volunteer subjects, five formulations of the new product were prepared and applied to each 20 healthy subjects. The universe was 270 patients with different type of dermatology disease, 120 volunteer patients were selected with Psoriasis, of which he creams was applied to 60 volunteer patients with mild and moderate psoriasis were no randomly administered the full formulation of the new product at TMC Hospital. The database for this study is in the Figshare and Dryad repository. Outcome: In healthy subjects showed that 99% had no side effects. In psoriasis patient mild and moderate psoriasis at TMC Hospital was evaluated the results before and after treatment with the new formulation, Using T Student for paired tests, in the clinical variables, as well as the PASI index and the SBA, the alternative hypothesis was proved, the new formula is effective in the control post treatment of psoriasis (p=0.000). Discussion: The new formulation showed greater efficacy after 10 days treatment. This cream is recommended as an alternative and complementary therapy for psoriasis, since it did not show secondary reactions in healthy subjects, so its effectiveness was demonstrated in this study. A new population study is recommended by regions in Ecuador: coast, highlands, Amazon and Galapagos Island, to evaluate the response to treatment.
Thin Luminous Tracks of Particles from Electrodes with a Small Radius of Curvature in Pulsed Nanosecond Discharges in Air and Argon
Authors: Tarasenko Victor F. , Beloplotov Dmitry V. , Panchenko Alexei N. , Sorokin Dmitry A.
Published: April 2023

Features of nanosecond discharge development in a non-uniform electric field are studied experimentally. High spatial resolution imaging showed that thin luminous tracks of great length with a cross-section of a few microns are observed against the background of discharge glow in air and argon. It has been established that the detected tracks are adjacent to brightly luminous white spots on the electrodes or to the vicinity of these spots, and are associated with the flight of small particles. It is shown that the traces have various shapes and change from pulse to pulse. The particle tracks may look like curvy or straight lines. In some photos, they can change the direction of movement to the opposite. The particle trace was found to abruptly cut off and a bright flash is visible at the trail break point. The color of the tracks differs from that of the spark leaders, while the bands of the second positive nitrogen system dominate in the gap spectra during the existence of a diffuse discharge. Areas of blue light are evident near the electrodes, as well. Development of glow in the gap during its breakdown is revealed using an ICCD camera. Physical reasons for the observed phenomena are discussed.
Association between IL11RA Overexpression and the Initiation of Melanoma Liver Metastasis
Authors: Koroknai Viktória , Szász István , Balázs Margit
Published: April 2023

Cytokines and chemokines (chemotactic cytokines) are soluble extracellular proteins that bind to specific receptors and play an integral role in the cell-to-cell signaling network, in addition can promote the homing of cancer cells into different organs. We investigated the potential relationship between human hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HHSECs) and several melanoma cell lines for the expression of chemokine and cytokine ligand and receptor expression during invasion of melanoma cells. In order to define the invasion related gene expression differences, we selected invasive and non-invasive subpopulations of cells after co-culturing with HHSECs. In addition, we determined protein expression of the endothelial cells before and after co-culturing with melanoma cell lines originated from primary tumors. Cell lines with increased invasive capacity after culturing with conditioned medium showed a set of receptor genes (CXCR1, IL1RL1, IL1RN, IL3RA, IL8RA, IL11RA, IL15RA, IL17RC, and IL17RD) with significantly different expression. It is very important note, that the IL11RA gene expression level was also significantly increased in primary melanoma tissues with liver metastasis as well. Proteome arrays revealed 15 differentially expressed proteins (including CD31, VCAM-1, ANGPT2, CXCL8, and CCL20) in the hepatic endothelial cells after co-cultured with melanoma cells. Our findings clearly indicate the interaction between liver endothelial- and melanoma cells. Based on our data, we assume that overexpression of the IL11RA gene might has key role in the formation of organ specific metastasis to the liver by primary melanoma cells.
Development of Autonomous Moving Robot Using Appropriate Technology for Tsukuba Challenge
Authors: Kanuki Yuta , Ohta Naoya , Nakazawa Nobuaki
Published: April 2023

We have been participating in the Tsukuba Challenge, an open experiment involving autonomous robots, since 2014. The technology of our robot has stabilized, and our robot has continued to win the Tsukuba Mayor Prize from 2018 to 2021 without changing the basic configuration of the body and navigation software. Here, we report the robot’s structure as the project’s current completed form. Our robot is designed with the policy of selecting the most rational technology (appropriate technology) to achieve the purpose, even if it is not the latest. For example, we used image-like two-dimensional data instead of a three-dimensional point cloud in map matching for robot positioning. For pedestrian signal recognition, which was required to perform an optional task, we did not use deep learning but rather conventional color image processing. These techniques are advantageous for balancing the execution time and accuracy required in the challenge.
AGING MANAGEMENT OF CABLES OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
Authors: Bezprozvannych Ganna , Moskvitin Yevgen
Published: April 2023

Cable aging management is an integral and mandatory requirement for continuous safety and reliable operation of nuclear power plants due to the extension of their service life. The research of the scientific community is focused on the adaptation of electrical non-destructive methods of monitoring cable samples in laboratory conditions to determine the state of their electrical insulation. The performed analysis of NPP cable aging management programs proves the need for new representative results of cable research to determine characteristics using special control methods and appropriate equipment. Emphasis is placed on the strategy of cable aging management with the involvement of scientists with professional experience in conducting complex diagnostic examinations with qualified analysis of the obtained results based on the most modern technologies. Effective methods, techniques, and modern techniques for the assessment of the technical condition of NPP cables are presented.
ANALYSIS OF THE EFFICIENCY OF ACTIVE SHIELDING OF THE EXTERNAL MAGNETIC FIELD OF BUILT-IN TRANSFORMER SUBSTATIONS WITH A POWER UP TO 1260 kVA
Authors: Kundius Kateryna
Published: April 2023

In the article, based on the developed methods of calculating the magnetic field and synthesis active screening system of the magnetic field of transformer substations, the possibility of mitigation the induction of the magnetic field to the level of sanitary standards in a living space located near a transformer substation with a power of up to 100 kVA using the active loop. The substantiation was performed theoretically on a computer model and experimentally on a laboratory model of a transformer substation and an active shielding system. The synthesis of active screening system of the magnetic field of a transformer substation with a power of 1260 kVA was carried out, and the possibility of mitigation the induction of the magnetic field in a living space to the reference levels by means of an active screening system with four active loops. A comparison of the efficiency of the developed systems of active screening of the magnetic field of transformer substations with known methods of passive shielding and methods of improving the design of transformer substations was carried out. For the first time, the sufficiency of using passive shielding methods for the power of transformer substations up to 300 kVA, methods for improving the design for the power of transformer substations up to 600 kVA and the method of active shielding for the power of transformer substations up to 1260 kVA are substantiated. The method of active shielding is universal and allows you to mitigate the magnetic field without interfering with the design of the transformer substation. Recommendations for the use of magnetic field mitigation methods in living spaces from built-in standard transformer substations with a power of 100–1260 kVA have been developed.
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 15.04.2023 г. по 21.04.2023 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: April 2023

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19 за неделю с 15.04.2023 г. по 21.04.2023 г.
Formação da Agenda do Orçamento Participativo Híbrido de Volta Redonda-RJ à luz do Modelo de Múltiplos Fluxos
Authors: Pedrosa de Oliveira Ana Claudia , Delgado Barbosa Julia , Kronemberger Thais Soares
Published: April 2023

Objetivo da pesquisa: analisar a inserção do Orçamento Participativo Híbrido (OPH) do município de Volta Redonda-RJ na agenda governamental pelo modelo de Múltiplos Fluxos, a fim de identificar os fatores que levaram essa questão à agenda de governo, os atores envolvidos no processo e o contexto político que viabilizou a política pública.
Enquadramento teórico: adota-se o referencial teórico sobre agenda de políticas públicas, especialmente, o modelo de Múltiplos Fluxos. Discute-se também, o Orçamento Participativo, suas potencialidades e entraves, assim como a interface com a gestão social.
Metodologia: estudo de caso único com coleta de dados pelas técnicas bibliográfica, documental e entrevistas semiestruturadas. O tratamento de dados foi realizado de forma qualitativa pela aplicação do modelo de Múltiplos Fluxos em três dimensões de análise.
Resultados: o OPH foi uma tentativa de ampliar a participação e diversificar a representação para além das associações de bairro. A vitória eleitoral de um candidato outsider em 2016 e a nomeação do Secretário de Planejamento, identificado como o empreendedor da política responsável pela defesa e reformulação do OP, são os principais fatores que explicam a formação da agenda.
Originalidade: adoção de um modelo teórico que considera aspectos da dinâmica política e dos atores na análise da agenda governamental, a partir da escolha de um objeto de estudo característico da gestão social.
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: compreensão sobre os fluxos de problemas, soluções e políticos incluindo sua convergência na formação da agenda em uma política participativa.
 
Palavras-chave:Orçamento participativo, Modelo de múltiplos fluxos, Formação da agenda.
A Study of Water Quality in Kelly’s Off Stream Storage, Byfield, Central Queensland
Authors: Fabbro Larelle Fabbro , Craig Alison , Kafle Geeta Gautam , Wells Lorna , Collins Tania , McIntyre Glenn , Dalton Michael
Published: April 2023

This paper analyses the water quality and environmental determinants for Kelly’s Off Stream Storage, Byfield, Central Queensland with a view to understanding the physical and chemical processes in this section of the water supply system. This assists management in evaluating risks and the need for preventative actions. It illustrates the link between a protected and well vegetated catchment and a high quality and good tasting water supply. The drinking water from the treatment plant associated with this Off Stream Storage has won many awards in taste tests. Key to the quality of this water is the sand filtration in the dunes upstream from Water Park Creek, quality of the catchment, riparian vegetation in the source stream, the pattern of stratification and mixing, conductivity and low concentrations of nutrients.
Design and Mathematical Analysis of Hexagonal 16QAM Green Structure Using Silicon Micro-ring Modulator
Authors: Sinha Nitish , Singha Satyabrata , Bhowmik Bishanka Brata , Ghosh Manthan
Published: April 2023

We propose a hexagonal 16QAM modulator based on compact microring resonators and validated through simulation and theoretical analysis. We have also analyzed the constellation points and calculated the mathematical equation for each of the constellation points. Equidistant symbols of hexagonal architecture have the advantage of a higher symbol detection margin compared to the classical 16QAM modulation format. A bit error rate (BER) of 10−3 is achieved at 16.5 dB optical signal to noise ratio (OSNR).
Fuzzy C-Means Clustering for Tennis Multivariate Time-Series
Authors: Skublewska-Paszkowska Maria , Karczmarek Paweł , Powroznik Pawel , Lukasik Edyta , Smolka Jakub
Published: April 2023

Creating the proper player profile in training is crucial for athlete development. Although there is a great number of studies concerning this subject, there is no solution that would allow to model it in a convenient way. Applying fuzzy modelling clustering can be useful in this field. Moreover, the application of sophisticated acquisition techniques, like motion capture systems, allow ones to obtain accurate data corresponding to athlete’s movement in the form of a multivariate time series. In this study, the authors undertook the task of clustering the most important at the stage of training tennis strokes such as: Forehand, backhand, and volley. They were represented as trajectories of the tennis racket based on four retro-reflective markers attached to it. The FuzzyC-Means algorithm, which utilizes the dynamic time warping-based distance to cluster analysis of tennis strokes, has been applied with success to group various kinds of movement of tennis players. The comprehensive analysis included numerous separate tennis moves and their groups. Various analyses depending on their number have been thoroughly carried out. The obtained results allowed creation of the reference stroke model,which can be used for further examination of the tennis players’performance.
A health-system-embedded deprescribing intervention targeting patients and providers to prevent falls in older adults (STOP-FALLS trial): Study protocol for a pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Balderson Benjamin H. , Gray Shelly L. , Fujii Monica M. , Nakata Kanichi G. , Williamson Brian , Cook Andrea J. , Wellman Robert , Theis Mary Kay , Lewis Cara C. , Key Dustin , Phelan Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2023

Background Central nervous system (CNS) active medications have been consistently linked to falls in older people. However, few randomized trials have evaluated whether CNS-active medication reduction reduces falls and fall-related injuries. The objective of the Reducing CNS-active Medications to Prevent Falls and Injuries in Older Adults (STOP-FALLS) trial is to test the effectiveness of a health-system-embedded deprescribing intervention focused on CNS-active medications on the incidence of medically treated falls among community-dwelling older adults.Methods We will conduct a pragmatic, cluster-randomized, parallel-group, controlled clinical trial within Kaiser Permanente Washington to test the effectiveness of a 12-month deprescribing intervention consisting of: 1) an educational brochure and self-care handouts mailed to older adults prescribed one or more CNS-active medications (aged 60+: opioids, benzodiazepines and Z-drugs; aged 65+: skeletal muscle relaxants, tricyclic antidepressants, and antihistamines) and 2) decision support for their primary health care providers. Outcomes are examined over 18–26 months post-intervention. The primary outcome is first incident (post-baseline) medically treated fall as determined from health plan data. Our sample size calculations ensure at least 80% power to detect a 20% reduction in the rate of medically treated falls for participants receiving care within the intervention (n = 9) versus usual care clinics (n = 9) assuming 18 months of follow-up. Secondary outcomes include medication discontinuation or dose reduction of any target medications. Safety outcomes include serious adverse drug withdrawal events, unintentional overdose, and death. We will also examine medication signetur fields for attempts to decrease medications. We will report factors affecting implementation of the intervention.Discussion The STOP-FALLS trial will provide new information about whether a health-system-embedded deprescribing intervention that targets older participants and their primary care providers reduces medically treated falls and CNS-active medication use. Insights into factors affecting implementation will inform future research and healthcare organizations that may be interested in replicating the intervention.Trial registration: clinicaltrial.gov: NCT05689554, registered 18 January 2023, retrospectively registered.
Statistical Analysis Plan for the Replacing Protein via Enteral Nutrition in a Stepwise Approach in Critically Ill Patients (REPLENISH): A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Arabi Yaseen , Al-Dorzi Hasan M , Aldibaasi Omar , Sadat Musharaf , Jose Jesna , Muharib Dina , Algethamy Haifa , Al-Fares Abdulrahman A , Al-Hameed Fahad , Mady Ahmed , Kharaba Ayman , Bshabshe Ali Al , Maghrabi Khalid , Ghamdi Khalid Al , Rasool Ghulam , AlGhamdi Adnan , Mekhlafi Ghaleb A Al , Chalabi Jamal , AlHumedi Haifa , Sakkijha Maram Hasan , Alamrey Norah Khaled , Askar Amjad Al , Alhutail Rabeah Hamad , Sifaoui Kaouthar , Alqahtani Rakan , Qureshi Ahmed , Hejazi Mohammed Moneer , Arishi Hatim , Qahtani Samah Al , Ghazi Amro Mohammed , Baaziz Saleh T , Azhar Abeer Othman , Azhar Sara Fahad , AlAqeely Mohammed , AlOrabi Ohoud , Al-Muatawa Alia , AlOtaibi Maha , AlGhannem Madiha , Almaani Mohammed , Buabbas Sarah Fadel , Al-Filfil Wadiah Alawi M , AlShahrani Mohammed S , Starkopf Joel , Preiser Jean - Charles , Perner Anders , AlMubarak Jumana Hani , Hazem Wafa Mansoor , Ibrahim Talal , Al-Dawood Abdulaziz
Published: April 2023

Background
The optimal amount and timing of protein intake in critically ill patients are unknown. REPLENISH (Replacing Protein via Enteral Nutrition in a Stepwise Approach in Critically Ill Patients) trial evaluates whether supplemental enteral protein added to standard enteral nutrition to achieve a high amount of enteral protein given from ICU day five until ICU discharge or ICU day 90 as compared to no supplemental enteral protein to achieve a moderate amount of enteral protein would reduce all-cause 90-day mortality in adult critically ill mechanically ventilated patients.
Methods
In this multicenter randomized trial, critically ill patients will be randomized to receive supplemental enteral protein (1.2 g/kg/day) added to standard enteral nutrition to achieve a high amount of enteral protein (range of 2-2.4 g/kg/day) or no supplemental enteral protein to achieve a moderate amount of enteral protein (0.8–1.2 g/kg/day). The primary outcome is 90-day all-cause mortality, and other outcomes include functional and health-related quality-of-life assessments at 90 days. The study sample size of 2502 patients will have 80% power to detect a 5% absolute risk reduction in 90-day mortality from 30–25%. Consistent with international guidelines, this statistical analysis plan specifies the methods for evaluating primary and secondary outcomes and subgroups. Applying this statistical analysis plan to the REPLENISH trial will facilitate unbiased analyses of clinical data.
Conclusion
Ethics approval was obtained from the King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (RC19/414/R ). Approvals were also obtained from the institutional review boards of each participating institution. Our findings will be disseminated in an international peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant conferences and meetings
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04475666. Registered on July 17, 2020
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04475666
Simultaneous removal of four aflatoxins using magnetic nanobentonite as a green and fast sorbent; Kinetic,termodynamic and isotherm investigation
Authors: Shahinfar Marjan , Moghaddas Naser Hafezi , Lashkaripour Gholam Reza , Fottovat Amir
Published: April 2023

In the study, an adsorptive removal strategy as a straightforward and fast procedure was developed to remove four aflatoxins, including aflatoxin B1 (AF-B1), aflatoxin B2 (AF-B2), aflatoxin G1 (AF-G1), and aflatoxin G2 (AF-G2). A simple and green sorbent consisting of two components (activated nanobentonite and Fe3O4 nanoparticles) was synthesized based on three steps using acidic treatment, ultrasonic procedure, and chemical precipitation method. The sorbent was characterized by several techniques such as FTIR, FESEM, TEM, XRD and VSM to determine the sorbent structure and morphology. An experimental design based on a central composite design was utilized to optimize factors in the removal of AFs. The optimum values of the factors (pH, sorbent amount, shaking rate) was 6.8, 0.076 g and 160 rpm, respectively. Three models, including pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion models, were used to investigate the kinetics of the removal process. The removal of AFs using magnetic nanobentonite was fitted with the pseudo-second-order model better than other models with an equilibrium time lower than 30 min. the thermodynamic data show that the adsorption of AFs on the sorbent is a spontaneous and feasible process due to negative values of the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) at different temperatures. Two models (Langmuir and Freundlich models) were chosen to study the isotherm of the removal procedure, indicating that the Freundlich model describes the results better than the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacity of the sorbent for removing AF-B1, AF-B2, AF-G1, and AF-G2 are 357.14, 400.0, 370.37, and 400.0 mg g− 1, respectively. The sorbent reusability was also evaluated to study the sorbent's ability for the removal of AFs, indicating that the sorbent was used for 5 cycles without a significant reduction in the ability to remove AFs.
GPR30 Agonist G1 Combined with Hypothermia Alleviates Cognitive Impairment and Anxiety-like Behavior after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rats
Authors: Peng Jun , He Yang , He Jun , Zhang Ji-kun , Xia Ying
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the treatment effect of G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) agonist G1 combined with hypothermia (HT) on the cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in rats. Fifty male rats were randomly assigned to one of five groups: Sham group, SAH group, SAH+G1 group, SAH+HT group and SAH+G1+HT group. SAH rat model was established by modified endovascular puncture in all groups except the Sham group. Neurological function after operation was assessed by Garcia scoring. The degree of rat cerebral edema was determined using dry-wet weighing method 48h after operation. Moreover, the behavioral test was performed on rats on the 4th and 28th day after operation. Compared with Sham group, Garcia score of each SAH rat model group decreased significantly on the 1st day and thereafter increased gradually. However, the recovery rate of each treatment group was higher than the SAH group (no treatment), and Garcia score of SAH+G1+HT group was much higher than the SAH group on the 7th day after operation. In addition, each treatment group could obviously reduce the cerebral edema degree of SAH rats, among which rats in SAH+G1+HT group had lower cerebral edema degree than SAH+G1 group and SAH+HT group. Behavioral test results showed that the combination of GPR30 agonist G1 and hypothermia markedly improved the learning and memory ability of SAH rats, alleviated their anxiety- and emotion-related behavior and enhanced their social interaction. GPR30 agonist G1 combined with hypothermia reduces the cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior in rats with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Beijing Children's Hospital guidelines on the design and conduction of the first standardized database for medulloblastoma
Authors: Yang Wei , Ma Wenping , Huang Jiansong , Cai Yingjie , Peng Xiaojiao , Zhao Fengmao , Zhang Di , Zou Zhewei , Sun Hailang , Qi Xiang , Ge Ming
Published: April 2023

Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most common malignant childhood brain tumors (WHO grade IV). Its high degree of malignancy leads to an unsatisfactory prognosis, requiring more precise and personalized treatment in the near future. Multi-omics and artificial intelligence have been playing a significant role in precise medical research, but their implementation needs a large amount of clinical information and biomaterials. For these reasons, it is urgent for current MB researchers to establish a large sample-size database of MB that contains complete clinical data and sufficient biomaterials such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), cancer tissue, and urine. Unfortunately, there are few biobanks of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors throughout the world for limited specimens, scarce funds, different standards collecting methods and et cl. Even though, China falls behind western countries in this area. The present research set up a standard workflow to construct the Beijing Children’s Hospital Medulloblastoma (BCH-MB) biobank. Clinical data from children with MB and for collecting and storing biomaterials, along with regular follow-up has been collected and recorded in this database. In the future, the BCH-MB biobank could make it possible to validate the promising biomarkers already identified, discover unrevealed MB biomarkers, develop novel therapies, and establish personalized prognostic models for children with MB upon the support of its sufficient data and biomaterials, laying the foundation for individualized therapies of children with MB.
Type of forage influences the timing of reproduction in the edible dormouse
Authors: Vekhnik Victoria A.
Published: April 2023

In the communities with periodic pulses of food availability relationship of time frames of resource peaks and reproduction of consumers has essential importance for survival of posterity. Mammals can adapt to periodicity using abiotic and biotic cues in ecosystems. In some cases, they can give birth to juveniles long before the maximal food availability, providing best conditions for juveniles instead of mature females. The species which can cope with masting periods in temperate broad-leaved forests through different reproductive mechanisms is the edible dormouse. The nature of such anticipation in oak-dominated forests was explored. In years of complete absence of acorns, dormice reproduced in anticipation of a substitute forage, hazel nuts. Births of juveniles occurred even earlier than in years of oak masting. Differences in litter size were not found. Such an exact tracking of food availability at early stage of maturation shows that the “prediction” of future food supply in the edible dormouse is the dependence of natal rate from minimal amount of necessary nutrients, being energetic trigger of successful reproduction or complete resorption of embryos. It was indirectly confirmed by the analysis of amino acids contained in both forages and a laboratory experiment. The synchronization of seeds ripening and growth of posterity provides the maximal food abundance at the dissolution of litters when juveniles are most vulnerable. This strategy allows the species to survive long hibernation and reach a high longevity.
Enhancement of Tensile, Thermal and Barrier Properties of Polyphenylene Sulfide/Carboxylated Graphene Antibacterial Nanocomposites
Authors: Qu Chang-Lei , Yuan Li , Yao Wei-Hua , Gao Chen , Wu Jintian , Gao Kai , Lei Jialu , Tsou Chi Hui
Published: April 2023

Carboxylated graphene (CG) with functional group was blended with polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), CG enhanced the tensile, thermal properties, crystallinity and barrier performance of PPS. Through tensile test, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, evaluation of S. aureus inhibition, and barrier performance, the properties of pure PPS and PPS/CG nanocomposites were characterized and compared. The results showed that CG acted a role in heterogeneous nucleation and reinforcement. When the concentration of CG was 0.2%, the tensile strength, elongation at break, thermostability, crystallinity and water vapor permeability coefficients (WVPC) approached maximum values, and the microscopic morphology changed from the original brittle fracture to a relatively tough fracture. Compared with pure PPS, when CG was added to PPS at 0.2%, the tensile strength, elongation at break and WVPC of PPS were significantly increased by 23.9%, 17.2%, and 18.3% respectively. This improvement in barrier performance might be attributed to two reasons: (1) The presence of CG extended the penetration path of molecules; (2) The hydrogen bond from PPS matrix and CG nanofiller, so as to narrow the H2O transmission path. CG endows nanocomposites with antibacterial properties.
Phenotypic consequences of a nanophthalmos-associated TMEM98 variant in human and mouse
Authors: Hassall Mark M , Javadiyan Shari , Klebe Sonja , Awadalla Mona S , Sharma Shiwani , Qassim Ayub , White Melissa , Thomas Paul Q , Craig Jamie E , Siggs Owen M
Published: April 2023

Nanophthalmos is characterised by shorter posterior and anterior segments of the eye, with a predisposition towards high hyperopia and primary angle-closure glaucoma. Variants in TMEM98 have been associated with autosomal dominant nanophthalmos in multiple kindreds, but definitive evidence for causation has been limited. Here we used CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis to recreate the human nanophthalmos-associated TMEM98 p.Ala193Pro (A193P) variant in mice. The A193P variant was associated with ocular phenotypes in both mice and humans, with dominant inheritance in humans and recessive inheritance in mice. Unlike their human counterparts, A193P homozygous mutant mice had normal axial length, normal intraocular pressure, and structurally normal scleral collagen. However, in both homozygous mice and heterozygous humans, the A193P variant was associated with discrete white spots throughout the retinal fundus, with corresponding retinal folds on histology. This direct comparison of a TMEM98 variant in mouse and human suggests that certain nanophthalmos-associated phenotypes are not only a consequence of a smaller eye, but that TMEM98 may itself play a primary role in retinal and scleral structure and integrity.
ΔNp63α promotes cigarette smoke-induced renal cancer stem cell activity via the Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhao Yuxiang , Ma Nannan , Wu Wanngyu , Wu Ying , Zhang Wenbo , Qian Weiwei
Published: April 2023

Background: Cigarette smoke (CS) has been generally recognized as a chief carcinogenic factor in kidney cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated the stimulative effect of smoking on renal cancer stem cells (RCSCs); however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The induction of cancer stem cells (CSCs)by CS represents an early event in tumor initiation. Renal cancer-related gene ΔNp63α is highly expressed in renal epithelial tissues and contributes to the RCSCs characteristics of tumors. In this study, we investigated the role of ΔNp63α on the activity of RCSCs induced by CS and the regulation on the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway.
Methods: Western blot and immunohistochemistry were performed to determine the expression levels of ΔNp63α and RCSCs markers in renal cell carcinoma tissues. CCK-8 assay was used to detect the activity of RCSCs in different concentrations of cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Tumor sphere formation assay, Western blot, RT-PCR, and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) were utilized to analyze the effect of ΔNp63α on the activity of RCSCs induced by CS and the activation of the SHH signaling pathway. Furthermore, the effects of tumor sphere formation and CS on the expression levels of ΔNp63α and RCSCs markers were examined in vivo by nude mouse tumor formation assay.
Results: In renal cancer tissues, ΔNp63α and RCSCs markers in smokers expressed higher than that in non-smokers. RCSCs were effectively enriched by tumor sphere formation assay in vitro and in vivo. Besides, CS increased the expression of RCSCs markers and the capability of sphere-forming in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, CS activated the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway, and the specialized inhibitor alleviated the promotion of CS on RCSCs. ΔNp63α activates SHH signaling pathway and promotes CS-induced enhancement of RCSCs activity.
Conclusions: ΔNp63α positively regulates the activity of CS-induced RCSCs via SHH signaling pathway.
Clinical Outcomes and Safety of Anakinra in the Treatment of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: a Single Center Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Dizon Brian L.P. , Redmond Christopher , Gotschlich Emily C. , Sule Sangeeta , Ronis Tova , Vazzana Kathleen M. , Sherman Matthew A. , Connor Rachael , Bosk Abigail , Dham Niti , Harahsheh Ashraf S. , Wells Elizabeth , DeBiasi Roberta , Srinivas Hemalatha
Published: April 2023

Background and objective:
Evidence for the treatment of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is lacking. Anakinra, which targets IL-1-mediated inflammation, is reserved for refractory cases of MIS-C; however, its use in the treatment of MIS-C is not clearly established.
Patients and Methods:
To examine a role for anakinra in MIS-C, we performed a single center prospective observational cohort study of all MIS-C patients diagnosed at our children’s hospital from May 15 to November 15, 2020. Demographics, clinical features, diagnostic testing, and cardiac function parameters were compared between MIS-C patients treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) monotherapy and IVIG with anakinra (IVIG+anakinra).
Results:
Among 46 patients with confirmed MIS-C, 32 (70%) were in the IVIG+anakinra group, of which 9 of these patients (28%) were also given corticosteroids (CS). No patients were treated with anakinra alone. MIS-C patients in the IVIG+anakinra group were enriched in a CV shock phenotype (p=0.02), and those with CV shock were treated with higher doses of anakinra for a longer duration. Furthermore, MIS-C patients in the IVIG+anakinra group exhibited improvements in fever and cardiac function with and without CS. No significant adverse events were observed, and no differences in IL-1β levels were found among MIS-C patients in the IVIG+anakinra group.
Conclusions:
Anakinra treatment, which was co-administered with IVIG and primarily in patients with severe MIS-C, was associated with improvements in fever and cardiac function, and demonstrated a favorable side-effect profile. These findings suggest a role for adjunctive anakinra in the treatment of MIS-C.
Stabilization and racetrack application of asymmetric Néel skyrmions in hybrid nanostructures
Authors: Zelent Mateusz , Moalic Mathieu , Mruczkiewicz Michał , Li Xiaoguang , Zhou Yan , Krawczyk Maciej
Published: April 2023

Magnetic skyrmions, topological quasiparticles, are small stable magnetic textures that possess intriguing properties and potential for data storage applications. Hybrid nanostructures comprised of skyrmions and soft magnetic material can offer additional advantages for developing skyrmion-based spintronic and magnonic devices. We show that a Néel-type skyrmion confined within a nanodot placed on top of a ferromagnetic in-plane magnetized stripe produces a unique and compelling platform for exploring the mutual coupling between magnetization textures. The skyrmion induces an imprint upon the stripe, which, in turn, asymmetrically squeezes the skyrmion in the dot, increasing their size and the range of skyrmion stability at small values of Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction, as well as introducing skyrmion bi-stability. Finally, by utilizing the properties of the skyrmion in a hybrid system, we demonstrate free from the Hall effect and unlimited skyrmion transport along the racetrack.
The First Molecular Evidence of Toxoplasma gondii in the brain tissue of rats, Gaza, Palestine
Authors: Al-Hindi Adnan. I.
Published: April 2023

BackgroundToxoplasma gondiiis the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, its associated disease, which has significant economic, veterinary and medical importance. To determine the prevalence ofT. gondiiinfection in the brin tissues rats trapped from local markets in Gaza, Palestine using nested-PCR assay.MethodsA total of 132 black rats (Rattus rattus) were analyzed. We used Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR). The present study showed that 86 out of 132 (65.2%) and 36 (27.3%) of the trapped rats were infected withT. gondiiusing B1 and SAG1 genes respectively.ResultsThe results showed that males have higher infection withT. gondiithan females with a significant difference (P=0.02) when using B1 gene. In both B1 gene and SAG1 gene there was shared positive for 30 samples (22.7%).ConclusionsThis finding indicated thatRattus rattuswhich is dominant in Gaza Strip could be a potential source ofT. gondiifor stray cats in the local markets and disseminating infection to the other parts of Gaza Strip. We recommend that Gaza municipality should take serious measures towards minimizing the number of roaming cats in the local markets of Gaza and other governorates, and changing policy towards the current site of Feras market.
Unmet needs of Australians in endometriosis research: a qualitative study of research priorities, drivers and barriers to participation
Authors: Giese Nora , Gilbert Emilee , Hawkey Alexandra , Armour Mike
Published: April 2023

Background:Endometriosis causes significant personal and societal burden. Despite this, research funding lags behind other chronic conditions and therefore determining where to prioritise these limited funds is vital. Research priorities may differ between affected individuals and clinicians/researchers. The aim of this research project is to explore research priorities and determinants of endometriosis research from the perspective of people with endometriosis in Australia.
Methods: Four focus groups involving 30 people with endometriosis were conducted and analysed using qualitative inductive content analysis.
Results: Two categories were developed from the data: unmet research needs and motivators and barriers to participation in endometriosis research.
Participants expressed interest in developing non-invasive diagnostic tools and a more multidisciplinary or holistic approach to treatment. Participants urgently wanted research on treatment options for symptom management, with many prioritising non-hormonal treatments including medicinal cannabis and complementary medicine. Others prioritised research on causes of endometriosis to assist with prevention and eventual cure of the disease over research on treatments.
The main drivers for participating in endometriosis research were hope for symptom improvement and a reduction in time to diagnosis. Research design features that were important included the ability to easily access testing centres (e.g. for blood tests) and copies of test results, as were automated data collection reminders and easy data entry to record measurements. Research incentives for younger endometriosis patients and a broad dissemination of information about research projects was considered likely to increase participant numbers. Barriers included time commitments, a lack of flexibility around research appointments for data collection, travel or work commitments, concerns about the safety of some products, and trying to conceive.
Conclusions: People with endometriosis were open to participating in research they felt aligned with their needs, with a significant focus on diagnostic tools and symptom relief. However, researchers must co-design approaches to ensure convenience and flexibility for research participation.
Renal and bone side effects of Entecavir, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, tenofovir alafenamide fumarate in patients with hepatitis B: a network meta- analysis
Authors: Liu Zekun , Zhao Zhenzhen , Ma Xuefeng , Liu Shousheng , Xin Yongning
Published: April 2023

Background
As the first-line treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus infection, the long-term effects of nucleoside analogues on kidney and bone tissue damage need to be further investigated.
Methods
Two investigators independently searched for relevant randomized controlled trials. We included all randomized controlled trials of nucleoside analogues in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B through November 2021. A random effects model was constructed on our data using stata15 software, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) and surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) were reported for each outcome. The side effects of the three drugs were compared.
Results
This study eventually included 17 studies involving 4278 adults with chronic hepatitis B. Entecavir (ETV) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) had less effect on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) than tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) (SMD= 3.60, 95%Cl: 1.94~5.26) and (SMD=4.27, 95%Cl :2.62~5.93). ETV had less effect on creatinine rise than TAF and TDF, SMD=0.55(95%Cl:0.09~1.01), SMD=0.61(95% Cl:0.15~1.06). The effect of TAF on bone mineral density(BMD) was less than that of TDF, with SMD=0.02 (95%Cl: 0.01~0.02). The probability of three drugs reducing relevant indicators is, eGFR: TDF(100.0%)＞ETV(41.2%)＞TAF(8.8%); BMD:TDF (79.7%)＞ETV (50.6%)＞TAF(19.6%); blood phosphorus: TDF (90.6%)＞TAF(49.8%)＞ETV(9.7%). The probability of three drugs to increase creatinine in the order: TDF (94.7%)＞TAF (54.7%) ＞ETV (0.6%).
Conclusions
TDF has shown stronger side effects than TAF and ETV in both renal function and bone tissue.
A Systematic Review; Efficacy Assessment of Novel Therapy in Treating Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Mona Yousif , Cuomo Raphael
Published: April 2023

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the prominent ocular diseases that lead to vision loss in older patients. With the gradual loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial cells, the macula atrophies over time causing nonreversible central blindness. Steroid injections (such as Avastin & Vabysmo) are used today in clinics as the most common regimen for AMD symptom management. However, classical steroid injections do not always work, and have a high probability of procedure-related complications due to repeated monthly injections. Gene-manipulating and stem cell treatments offer an alternative, radical treatment path from the classic therapy to treat genetically triggered AMD with higher efficacy and specificity with far less frequency of administration compared to standard care. Six randomized phase 1/II clinical trials were selected from a pool of studies that investigated effectiveness, safety or both based on a strict search criteria that consisted of the terms and parameters of interest. A diagnostic table of the proper variables of interest was constructed and a meta-analysis assessing the odds ratio (OR) for therapy vs control arms was printed on a forest plot based on our selected data. This process utilized Microsoft Excel and R-Studio for all the statistical analyses performed. The meta-analysis revealed that Weiss et al. and Parker et al. were the two leading studies with the most significant weight of 33% and 24% respectively. The overall common effect from all the studies was found to be OR=3.28 (95% CI = 1.90-5.64). The common effect indicates that the odds of higher visual acuity fall within the study arm that received some sort of gene-related therapy in comparison to control. The overall study measure is statistically insignificant (p-value = 0.19 > 0.05), which was expected due to the small sample size recruited in all studies. The heterogeneity and Q-test values were all within the expected and accepted range considering the small sample size and therapy novelty as well. Light must be shed on gene and stem cell therapy by the scientific community as it has shown clinical evidence in treating many complicated diseases, including AMD. Moreover, such therapies can be utilized to target certain regions of the eye that are impacted by the illness, enabling a more specialized and efficient course of treatment.