bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombinant oncolytic adenovirus armed with CCL5, IL-12 and IFN-γ promotes CAR-T infiltration and proliferation in vivo to eradicate local and distal tumors
Authors: Zheng Junnian , Fang Lin , Yuan Sen , Wang Meng , Zhang Chen , Wang Xueyan , Li Hailong , Yang Jie , Li Wanjing , Sun Nan , Zhang Qi , Zhang Yuxin , Chai Dafei , Li Huizhong , Wang Gang
Published: May 2023

The efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells for solid tumors remains unsatisfactory due to the limited tumor infiltration and immunosuppressive microenvironment. To overcome these limitations, the genetically engineered recombinant oncolytic adenoviruses (OAVs) that conditionally replicate in tumor cells were developed to modify the tumor microenvironment (TME) to facilitate CAR-T-mediated tumor eradication. Here in the present study, a novel recombinant OAV carrying CCL5, IL12 and IFN-γ controlled by Ki67 promoter was constructed (named AdKi67-C3). The antitumor activity of AdKi67-C3 was tested in vitro and in vivo by using mono administration or combing with CAR-T cells targeting B7H3. It proved that CCL5 expressed by AdKi67-C3 indeed induced more CAR-T migration in vitro and CAR-T infiltration in tumor mass in vivo. Meanwhile, cytokines of IFN-γ and IL12 secreted by AdKi67-C3-infected tumor cells significantly promoted proliferation and persistence of CAR-T cells in vitro and in vivo. In tumor-bearing xenograft mouse models of kidney, prostate or pancreatic cancer, local pretreatment with AdKi67-C3 dramatically enhanced CAR-T cell efficacy and eliminated local and distant tumors. More important, mice achieving complete tumor regression resisted to re-challenge with the same tumor cells, suggesting establishment of long-term anti-tumor immune response. Therefore, OAVs armored with cytokines could be developed as a bioenhancer to defeat the immunosuppressive microenvironment and improve therapeutic efficacy of CAR-T in solid tumors.
Interchannel dimerization of the dissociated voltage-sensor domains of voltage-gated Na+ channels in the resting state
Authors: Sumino Ayumi , Sumikama Takashi , Shibata Mikihiro , Irie Katsumasa
Published: May 2023

Understanding voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels is significant since they generate action potential. Nav channels consist of a pore domain (PD) and a voltage-sensor domain (VSD). All resolved Nav structures in different gating states have VSDs that tightly interact with PDs; however, it is unclear whether VSDs attach to PDs during gating under physiological conditions. Another problem is that the key structure facilitating positive cooperativity in the rising phase of the action potential is unknown. Here, we reconstituted three different voltage-dependent NavAb channels into a lipid membrane and observed their structural dynamics by high-speed atomic force microscopy. Interestingly, VSDs dissociated from PDs in the mutant in the resting state and further dimerized to form cross-links between channels. This dimerization would occur at a realistic channel density, offering a potential explanation for the facilitation of positive cooperativity.
Sodium alginate cross-linked hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/hydroxyapatite nano biomaterial mediated with zinc to promote bone tissue healing
Authors: Rudraradhya Varsha , Teja Banala Venkatesh , Mukherjee Dhrubojyoti
Published: May 2023

The present study aimed to develop a composite material using sodium alginate and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in combination with hydroxyapatite. The composite was doped with zinc and developed into a nanocomposite by using ionic gelation and solvent precipitation methods. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, FTIR, and XRD studies. In vivo pharmacological studies were carried out to establish the bone targeting and bone tissue regeneration efficacy of the developed nanocomposite. The nanocomposite was checked for cell toxicity by performing an MTT assay using MG63 cell line and the molecular mechanism of targeting efficiency was assessed by in silico evaluation method. The results of the study confirmed the polymeric interlinking in the nanocomposite and the successful preparation of a composite material by using biodegradable excipients. SEM and AFM studies indicated that the nanocomposite was within the 80-200 nm size range. MTT assay indicated that the developed nanocomposite was not cytotoxic and well tolerated by the MG63 cell line. In vivo studies in validation with molecular docking evaluation suggested that the nanocomposite was effectively targeted to the bone as well as had osteogenesis properties by following a mechanism whereby it could effectively block Farnesyl Diphosphate Synthetase in the mevalonate pathway which is essential for inhibiting the osteoclastic activity and promoting osteogenesis.
A meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of montelukast sodium in combination with budesonide nasal spray in the treatment of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Lu Ziyi , Huo Ziyi , Zhang Shoukai
Published: May 2023

OBJECTIVE To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of montelukast sodium combined with budesonide nasal spray in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.METHODS Databases such as China Biomedical Literature Database, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang Database, VIP Database, Embase, Cochrane Library, Pubmed, and Web Of Science were searched. Randomized controlled trials evaluating montelukast sodium in combination with budesonide nasal spray for allergic rhinitis were included to be searched from the date of database construction to March 18, 2023. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5. 4 software after data extraction by 2 investigators, selection of literature, and evaluation of the risk of bias of included articles.Results A total of 16 RCTs including 1277 patients, 638 patients in the study group, and 639 patients in the control group, were included in the study. 0.00001), significant rate (OR = 2.29,95%CI = 1.77 ~ 2.96,P < 0.00001), nasal symptom score (SMD=-1.41,95%CI=-2.30~-0.53,P < 0.00001), interleukin 6 level (MD= -36.06 ,95%CI = − 41.80~ -30.33 ,P < 0.00001 ), interleukin 8 (MD= -24.30,95%CI= -29.71~ -18.89,P < 0.00001) and interleukin 10 (MD = 3.77,95%CI = 3.36 ~ 4.17,P < 0.00001) were significantly The differences were statistically significant. The differences in the incidence of adverse reactions between the study group and the control group were not statistically significant (OR = 0.53,95%CI = 0.16 ~ 1.72, P = 0.29 ). Conclusion: Montelukast sodium combined with budesonide nasal spray is more effective than budesonide nasal spray alone in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Optimal View Detection for Ultrasound-guided Supraclavicular Block using Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Jo Yumin , Lee Dongheon , Baek Donghyeon , Choi Bo Kyung , Aryal Nisan , Jung Jinsik , Shin Yong Sup , Hong Boohwi
Published: May 2023

BackgroundSuccessful ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block (SCB) requires the understanding of sonoanatomy and identification of the optimal view. Segmentation using a convolutional neural network (CNN) is limited in clearly determining the optimal view. The present study describes the development of a computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) system using a CNN that can determine the optimal view for complete SCB in real time.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was the development of computer-aided diagnosis system that aid non-expert to determine the optimal view for complete supraclavicular block in real time.MethodsUltrasound videos were retrospectively collected from 881 patients to develop the CADx system (600 to the training and validation set and 281 to the test set). The CADx system included classification and segmentation approaches, with Residual neural network (ResNet) and U-Net, respectively, applied as backbone networks. In the classification approach, an ablation study was performed to determine the optimal architecture and improve the performance of the model. In the segmentation approach, a cascade structure, in which U-Net is connected to ResNet, was implemented. The performance of the two approaches was evaluated based on a confusion matrix.ResultsUsing the classification approach, ResNet34 and gated recurrent units with augmentation showed the highest performance, with average accuracy 0.901, precision 0.613, recall 0.757, f1-score 0.677 and AUROC 0.936. Using the segmentation approach, U-Net combined with ResNet34 and augmentation showed poorer performance than the classification approach.ConclusionsThe CADx system described in this study showed high performance in determining the optimal view for SCB. This system could be expanded to include many anatomical regions and may have potential to aid clinicians in real-time settings.Trial registrationThe protocol was registered with the Clinical Trial Registry of Korea (KCT0005822, https://cris.nih.go.kr)
DFT Study of Hydrogen Evolution Reactions of Water Molecule with In7 and In6Al Clusters
Authors: Liu Bing Xin , Lei Dan , Shi Shun Ping , Xue You Wen , Duan Zhan Jiang , Jiang Jing , Yao Chun Yu , Li Yuan Yuan
Published: May 2023

The specific process of hydrogen generation by the reaction of In7 and In6Al clusters with H2O molecules is explored through density functional theory in this study. Based on the prediction of the lowest energy structure of In7 and In6Al clusters, the geometric and electronic structures of In7@H2O and In6Al@H2O are obtained by using the dispersion-corrected density functional theory B3LYP-D3. The corresponding reaction paths are constructed according to the transition states in the searched reactions. Then we discuss the reaction path, energy barrier and reaction energy release. The results show that both In7 and In6Al clusters can react with H2O molecules and release hydrogen. Both reactions are exothermic reactions, and the structure of the reaction product are very similar. The comparison of adsorption energy, energy barrier and reaction release energy show that the Al-doped In7 cluster can significantly improve its ability to react with H2O and reduce the energy barrier that has to be overcome for the reaction process. The generated H2 exists on the cluster surface in the form of physical adsorption, which is judged by the adsorption energy, the distance between the H2 molecule and the cluster surface, and the interaction region indicator.
Dynamic Reassociation of the Nuclear Lamina with Newly Replicated DNA
Authors: Lovejoy Callie M. , Nagarajan Prabakaran , Parthun Mark R.
Published: May 2023

The physical association of specific regions of chromatin with components of the nuclear lamina provides the framework for the 3-dimensionl architecture of the genome. The regulation of these interactions plays a critical role in the maintenance of gene expression patterns and cell identity. The breakdown and reassembly of the nuclear membrane as cells transit mitosis plays a central role in the regulation of the interactions between the genome and the nuclear lamina. However, other nuclear processes, such as transcription, have emerged as regulators of the association of DNA with the nuclear lamina. To determine whether DNA replication also has the potential to regulate DNA-nuclear lamina interactions, we adapted proximity ligation-based chromatin assembly assays to analyze the dynamics of nuclear lamina association with newly replicated DNA. We observe that lamin A/C and lamin B, as well as inner nuclear membrane proteins LBR and emerin, are found in proximity to newly replicated DNA. While core histones rapidly reassociate with DNA following passage of the replication fork, the complete reassociation of nuclear lamina components with newly replicated DNA occurs over a period of approximately 30 minutes. We propose models to describe the disassembly and reassembly of nascent chromatin with the nuclear lamina.
Sentiment Analysis of Twitter Data using Machine Learning: A Case Study of SVM Algorithm
Authors: Garg simran , Chaturvedi Devang , Jain Tanya , Mishra Anju , Kapoor Anjali
Published: May 2023

This project report describes the use of machine learning algorithms for sentiment analysis of Twitter data. The dataset is collected from Twitter using API key and pre-processed using various Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques such as stop word removal, punctuation removal, tokenization, stemming, and lemmatization. The pre-processed data is then split into training and testing sets and subjected to feature extraction using count vectorization. Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm is implemented for classification and performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score are analyzed. The output is visualized using graphs and the project is implemented in a web application using Flask.
The report discusses the existing and proposed systems for sentiment analysis, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of using SVM algorithm. The methodology for model building and testing is also presented in detail. Additionally, the report presents a case study of Vader, a sentiment analysis tool, and its performance on Twitter data.
The project report concludes with a discussion on the future scope of the project such as improving the accuracy of the model and incorporating real-time analysis. The report provides a comprehensive overview of sentiment analysis using machine learning algorithms on Twitter data, highlighting the importance and relevance of this field in today's digital age. Overall, the project report serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in sentiment analysis and machine learning on social media data.
Fusarium amaranthuense sp. nov. from amaranth is an emergent species closely related to Fusarium circinatum
Authors: Hassan Oliul , Ryu Hyunjoo , Lee Sang-Yeob , Choi Hyo-Won
Published: May 2023

Background Amaranth (Amaranthus spp. L) is not native in South Korea but cultivated in small scales for ornamental purpose as well as a leafy vegetables and pseudo cereals. In this study, a new species within the genus Fusarium was isolated from amaranth showing stem rot symptom from a farmer field in Hwaseong, South Korea. The diseased characterized by dark-brown spot with black border and then get withered.Methods and results Phylogenetic analysis based concatenated sequences of translation elongation factor 1-alpha and DNA-dependent RNA polymerase II second largest subunit genes, revealed that the obtained isolate was clearly distinct other species of Fusarium fujikuroi species complex and the closely related to F. circinatum. Cultural and morphological characteristics and pathogenicity on healthy amaranth plant (stem and leaves) were examined. The isolate was readily differentiating from F. circinatum based on 1–5 septate macro conidia and absence of sterile hyphae.Conclusions Based on molecular and morphological characteristics, this fungus demonstrated to be a new species and described here as Fusarium amaranthuense, the causal agent of stem rot of amaranth in South Korea.
The excitatory neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus mediate the interruptive effect of inflammatory pain on a sustained attention task
Authors: Zheng Huan-Yu , Chen Yu-Meng , Xu Yao , Cen Cheng , Wang Yun
Published: May 2023

Background Attentional deficits are among the most common pain-induced cognitive disorders. Pain disrupts attention and may excessively occupy attentional resources in pathological states, leading to daily function impairment and increased disability. However, the neural circuit mechanisms by which pain disrupts attention are incompletely understood.Methods We used a three-choice serial reaction time task (3CSRTT) to construct a sustained-attention task model in male C57BL/6J mice. Formalin or complete Freund's adjuvant paw injection was used to establish inflammatory pain model. We measured changes in 3CSRTT performance under two inflammatory pain models, and investigated the neural circuit mechanisms of pain-induced attentional deficits.Results Acute inflammatory pain impaired 3CSRTT performance, while chronic inflammatory pain had no effect. Either inhibition of pain ascending pathway by blockade of the conduction of nociceptive signals in the sciatic nerve using local anesthetic lidocaine or chemogenetic inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) attenuated the acute inflammatory pain-induced impairment of 3CSRTT performance, while chemogenetic activation of CaMKIIα neurons in the LPBN disrupted the 3CSRTT. Furthermore, the activity of CaMKIIα neurons in the LPBN was significantly lower on day 2 after complete Freund's adjuvant injection than on the day of injection, which correlated with the recovery of 3CSRTT performance under chronic inflammatory pain condition.Conclusions Activation of excitatory neurons in the LPBN is a critical mechanism by which acute inflammatory pain disrupts sustained attention. This finding has implications for the treatment of pain and its cognitive comorbidities.
Beach stage identification for Aksa Beach (Malad, Mumbai) by analysing wave dynamics, grain size distribution and morphodynamic characteristics
Authors: Gadkari Deepali , Das Subhankar
Published: May 2023

The Aksa beach, located in the eastern suburb of Mumbai near Malad, is highly dynamic and experiences frequent spatial and temporal morphological changes, leading to sediment distribution issues and a high risk of drowning hazards. It is essential to identify the beach stage for effective beach management and reducing drowning risk. This study aims to assess the spatial and temporal morphological, sedimentological, and hydrodynamic characteristics of the beach to simplify the determination of its stage with morphodynamic features. Standard geomorphic techniques were used to collect and generate data related to variables such as slope, wave data, and sediment textural characteristics, which were analyzed using statistical techniques. The study utilized two morphodynamic indices, Fall velocity parameters (Ω) and Relative tide range parameters (RTR), to define the beach stage model. The Aksa beach was classified as an intermediate state with a low tide bar (LTB) and rip current, which helps in risk assessment and beach management decisions. The beach stage model is a useful tool for understanding the morphodynamic systems of a beach, and it should be used for easy identification and management of drowning incidents and beach environment.
Fluid-Kinetic-Hybrid Simulation for Ion Thruster using Polymorphic Particles
Authors: Joshi Ninad , Heiliger Christian
Published: May 2023

A hybrid Fluid-Kinetic model based on a polymorphic Particle-in-Cell method is developed for the simulation of plasmas in ion thruster.
The numerical scheme is suited for scenarios in which thermal ions or electrons undergo strong acceleration.
The polymorphic PIC model is tested for the extraction region of an ion thruster.
In this paper, we report the results achieved by implementing the scheme on a single extraction orifice and compare our results with the simulation from known IGUN software for ion extraction.
Kinetic energy budget in turbulent flows of dilute polymer solutions
Authors: Serafini Francesco , Battista Francesco , Gualtieri Paolo , Casciola Carlo Massimo
Published: May 2023

Direct numerical simulation of a turbulent pipe flow of a realistic solution of 108 polymers, modelled as finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE) dumbbells, and directly momentum coupled with the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations, are performed by means of an Eulerian-Lagrangian approach. Besides the drag reduction, the polymers significantly modify mean and turbulent kinetic energy budgets. The polymer backreaction to the solvent reduces the Reynolds stress and thus decreases the turbulent production and, at large Weissenberg number, the polymers act as a source of turbulent kinetic energy for y+ > 60, leading to an increase in the dissipation. This effect is peculiar to large Weissenberg polymers and it is particularly apparent at a small Reynolds number. At a smaller Weissenberg number, the effect of the polymers remains confined in the buffer layer, with the kinetic energy budget not significantly altered elsewhere.
Detecting and generating overlapping nested communities
Authors: Gera Imre , London András
Published: May 2023

Nestedness has been observed in a variety of networks but has been primarily viewed in the context of bipartite networks. Numerous metrics quantify nestedness and some clustering methods identify fully nested parts of graphs, but all with similar limitations. Clustering approaches also fail to uncover the overlap between fully nested subgraphs, as they assign vertices to a single group only.
In this paper, we look at the nestedness of a network through an auxiliary graph, in which a directed edge represents a nested relationship between the two corresponding vertices of the network. We present an algorithm that recovers this so-called community graph, and finds the overlapping fully nested subgraphs of a network. We also introduce an algorithm for generating graphs with such nested structure given by a community graph. This algorithm can be used to test a community detection algorithm of this kind and potentially to evaluate different metrics of nestedness as well. Finally, we evaluate our nested community detection algorithm on a large variety of networks, including biparite and non-bipartite ones too. We derive a new metric from the community graph to quantify the nestedness of both bipartite and non-bipartite networks.
Highly Sensitive Colorimetric Detection of the Toxic Metal Cadmium in Rice Using a New TAA@AuNPs Sensor
Authors: Li Guona , Xie Hongzhen , Li Xing
Published: May 2023

A highly toxic heavy metal Cd2+ not only pollutes the environment but also poses a serious health risk to humans through water intake and food chains. Thus, to measure the concentration of Cd2+ with simplicity, sensitivity, and rapidity in tap water, soil, and rice is important particularly. In the work, an efficient sensor based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified with 3-(1H-Tetrazol-5-yl) aniline (TAA) for the colorimetric detection of Cd2+ is rationally proposed. The chelation between Cd2+ and TAA@AuNPs is characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) and analyzed by Gaussian16w and Multiwfn simulations. The system color from wine-red to gray-blue with raising Cd2+ concentration resulted from the agglomeration of AuNPs with high anti-interference and selectivity, which could be visually perceived with the naked eye. The limit of detection (LOD) is 1.0 µM by the unaided eye, and 31 nM by UV-vis spectroscopy with the excellent linear relationship (R2 = 0.99049) in the range of 0.0 ~ 8.0µM (Cd2+ concentration) showing that AuNPs modified with TAA could serve as the quantitative determination of Cd2+. After testing the tap water, soil, and rice, it is considered that the new test way can be practically applied to the monitoring of harmful metal Cd2+ in environmental systems.
Autoimmune Encephalitis in COVID-19 patients : a systematic review of case reports and case series
Authors: Xue Hua , Zeng Li , He Hongxian , Xu Dongxun , Ren Kaixin
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Growing evidence demonstrated the occurrence of neurological complications such as ischemic stroke, epilepsy, and autoimmune encephalitis ( AE ) associated with COVID − 19 infection. The purpose of this review was to summarize the clinical symptoms, treatment, and outcome of COVID-19-associated AE.Methods: We searched case reports and case series of AE associated with COVID-19 between January 1, 2020, and March 31, 2023, using Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. After screening and further evaluation, irrelevant articles were excluded. Information related to treatment, clinical manifestations, comorbidities, and outcomes was extracted and summarized.Results: 36 studies were included in this review, 34 of which were case reports and 2 were case series. A total of 39 patients with AE were included, including 18 (46%) cases of unknown type of AE, 10 (26%) cases of anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) encephalitis, 4 (10%) cases of limbic encephalitis, 3 (8%) cases of anti-myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein (MOG) encephalitis, and other type of AE. In addition, the clinical manifestations of AE are mainly disturbance of consciousness, seizure and psychiatric symptoms. Although the symptoms of AE are varied, most patients could recover completely, with a few having residual symptoms of neurological damage.Conclusions: In this systematic review, the characteristics of COVID-19-associated AE are summarized, including neurological manifestations, treatment, types, and outcomes. Although COVID−19-associated AE can sometimes be life-threatening, most AE is reversible if treated promptly.
Plasmodesmata callose binding protein 2 contributes to the regulation of cambium/phloem formation and auxin response during the tissue reunion process in incised Arabidopsis stem
Authors: Ohba Yusuke , Yoshihara Sakura , Sato Ryosuke , Matsuoka Keita , Asahina Masashi , Satoh Shinobu , Iwai Hiroaki
Published: May 2023

Plants are exposed to a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses, including wounding at the stem. The healing process (tissue reunion) begins immediately after stem wounding. The plant hormone auxin plays an important role during tissue reunion. In decapitated stems, auxin transport from the shoot apex is inhibited and tissue reunion does not occur but is restored by application of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). In this study, we found that plasmodesmata callose binding protein 2 (PDCB2) affects the expansion of the cambium/phloem region via changes in auxin response during the process of tissue reunion. PDCB2 was expressed in the cortex and endodermis on the incised side of stems 1–3 days after incision. PDCB2-knockout plants showed reduced callose deposition at plasmodesmata and DR5::GUS activity in the endodermis/cortex in the upper region of the incision accompanied by an increase in size of the cambium/phloem region during tissue reunion. In addition, PIN(PIN-FORMED)3, which is involved in lateral auxin transport, was induced by auxin in the cambium/phloem and endodermis/cortex in the upper part of the incision in wild type, but its expression of PIN3 was decreased in pdcb2 mutant. Our results suggest that PDCB2 contributes to the regulation of cambium/phloem development via auxin response.
Assessment of Programmed Cell Death (PD-1) and its Ligand’s (PD-L1) levels in vitiligo
Authors: Mourad Ahmed H. , Nada Hanan R. , Hanafy Ghada El , Rashed Laila A. , Abdallah Nermeen M.A. , Abdelhady Mohamed M.
Published: May 2023

Background: Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) is a cell surface protein that serves as an immune checkpoint in conjunction with its two ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in immunoregulation. When PD-1/PD-L1 pathway inhibitors were used in cancer therapy, the observed aggravation of the pre-existing autoimmune disease and the emergence of autoimmune-like symptoms shed light on the potential therapeutic role of increasing PD-L1 expression or activating PD-1 in the fight against diseases with autoimmune pathology, including vitiligo. The present study aimed to assess both PD-1 and PD-L1 levels in vitiligo patients’ marginal and non-lesional biopsies in comparison with normal controls and to correlate them with disease parameters.
Methods: Thirty vitiliginous patients and 30 age and sex-matched controls were included. Full history and clinical examination were done and tissue levels of PD-1 and PD-L1 were measured by ELISA from lesional and non-lesional biopsies.
Results: Levels of tissue PD-1 in marginal biopsies were significantly higher than in non-lesional biopsies (p< .001) and significantly higher than the control PD-l level (p< .001). Non-lesional PD-1 level was also significantly higher than the control PD-l level (p< .001). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between marginal and non-lesional PD-1 levels; (rho=0.792, p< .001). Levels of tissue PD-1 in non-lesional biopsies were significantly higher than in controls (P<0.001) and levels of tissue PD-L1 in non-lesional biopsies were significantly lower than in controls (P<0.001). Non-lesional PD-L1 level was also significantly higher than the control PD-Ll level (p< .001).
The herbicide glyphosate inhibits hippocampal long-term potentiation and learning through activation of pro-inflammatory signaling
Authors: Izumi Yukitoshi , O’Dell Kazuko A. , Zorumski Charles F.
Published: May 2023

Background Glyphosate, a herbicide marketed under the trade name Roundup, is now widely used, in part because genetically modified organism plants that are resistant to this agent have been developed. Environmental or dietary exposure to glyphosate is omnipresent and there are concerns this exposure could impair cognitive function in addition to carcinogenicity.Methods Using hippocampal slices from juvenile male rats, we investigated whether glyphosate alters synaptic transmission and induction of long-term potentiation (LTP), a cellular model of learning and memory. Our hypothesis is that glyphosate alters neuronal function and impairs LTP induction via activation of pro-inflammatory processes, because increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines and neuroinflammation have been reported following glyphosate exposure. LTP was induced by delivery of 100 Hz x 1 sec high frequency stimulation (HFS) of the Schaffer collateral pathway and excitatory synaptic potentials (EPSPs) were monitored 60 min after HFS.Resulsts: We first tested effects of Roundup on basal synaptic function and LTP induction. Roundup depressed EPSPs in a dose-dependent manner. Basal synaptic transmission was completely suppressed by 2000 ppm. At concentrations ≤ 20 ppm Roundup did not affect basal transmission, but 4 ppm Roundup administered 30 min before HFS inhibited LTP induction. We also observed that acute administration of 10–100 µM glyphosate inhibits LTP induction. Minocycline, an inhibitor of microglial activation, and TAK-242, an inhibitor of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), both overcame the inhibitory effects of 100M glyphosate. Similarly, lipopolysaccharide from Rhodobacter sphaeroides (LPS-RS) overcame the inhibitory effects. In addition, ISRIB (integrated stress response inhibitor) and quercetin, an inhibitor of endoplasmic reticulum stress, allowed LTP induction in the presence of glyphosate. We also observed that in vivo glyphosate injection (16.9 mg/kg i.p.) impaired one-trial inhibitory avoidance learning. This learning deficit was overcome by TAK-242.Conclusion While Roundup inhibits LTP induction, these observations indicate that glyphosate alone, the major ingredient of Roundup, can impair cognitive function through pro-inflammatory signaling in microglia. Manipulation of pro-inflammatory signaling could be a useful strategy to prevent cognitive impairment after exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH).
Comparison of adjuvant capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CAPOX) versus S-1 in patients with gastric cancer after gastrectomy: A nationwide cohort study based on the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database in Korea
Authors: Maeng Chi Hoon , Kim Hoseob , Kim Mina
Published: May 2023

BackgroundAlthough both capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CAPOX) and S-1 are accepted as adjuvant chemotherapy following gastrectomy for gastric cancer, the better option between the two is still controversial.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective nationwide cohort study using data from the National Health Insurance Service of Korea. We included patients who underwent gastrectomy for a primary diagnosis of gastric cancer between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2018. The study compared the survival outcomes of patients who received postoperative chemotherapy based on S-1 (Arm S) vs. CAPOX (Arm C), as well as other relevant clinical variables such as comorbidity and completion of planned treatment.ResultsA total of 6,602 patients were included in the analysis, with 4,199 in Arm S and 2,403 in Arm C. After propensity score matching, the final study population consisted of 2,067 patients in each arm. Arm C showed statistically inferior five-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates compared to Arm S (84.0% vs. 90.0%; p < 0.0001; and 78.4% vs. 86.1%; p < 0.0001). Age (65 ≥ vs. <65) and the incomplete planned treatment also had a significant negative effect on both OS and DFS. In the multivariable analysis, Arm C still showed worse OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.609; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.339–1.934; p < 0.0001) and DFS (HR, 1.552; 95% CI, 1.333–1.807; p < 0.0001) than Arm S.ConclusionBoth S-1 and CAPOX showed excellent efficacy, but this nationwide cohort study suggests that S-1 may be a better option in certain clinical situations.
Pseudomonas species Implicated in Nosocomial Infections in a Referral Health Facility in Uyo, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Onwuezobe Ifeanyi Abraham , Chukwu Edith Ebere , Akinjogunla Olajide Joseph
Published: May 2023

Background Nosocomial infection is posing problems in developing countries like Nigeria especially in the face of emerging and re-emerging multidrug-resistant strains of infectious organisms plaguing the hospitals. The objective was to investigate nosocomial P. aeruginosa pathogens in urine and wound samples, their antibiotic resistance patterns, and the resistance genes involved.Methods A total of 210 samples, comprising 110 urine and 100 wound samples, were processed using standard methods. The pathogens isolated were identified using microbiological techniques, biochemical tests, and the Macrobact™ 24E system kit. Antibiotic susceptibility, plasmid DNA extraction, and detection of resistance genes were determined using the modified Kirby Bauer disc diffusion, alkaline lysis method, and multiplex polymerase chain reaction, respectively.Results Of the 129 bacteria isolates identified as nosocomial pathogens, 35 (16.7%) were P. aeruginosa and were found to be more resistant to Piperacillin-Tazobactam 12 (75.0%) and 10 (52.6%) for urine and wounds, respectively, and relatively sensitive to Ceftazidime 10 (62.5%) for urine and 6 (36.8%) for wounds. All isolates of P. aeruginosa had single plasmids with molecular weights of 10.5 kb and above, and antibiotic resistance genes detected were QnrA, QnrB, GMr, AmpC, and VIM.Conclusion The study revealed P. aeruginosa were associated with nosocomial wound and urinary tract infections at a 16.7% rate, and antibiotic resistance were plasmid mediated with QnrA, QnrB, GMr, AmpC, and VIM as resistance genes.
Low-cost optical interrogator system for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: DIAZ Camilo , SOUSA Israel , MESQUITA Esequiel , PEREIRA Luis , ALBERTO Nélia , ANTUNES Paulo
Published: May 2023

Optical fiber sensors have great potential for application in civil construction, especially in the field of structural health monitoring. However, one of the barriers to the diffusion of these sensors is allied to the fact that their implementation is quite expensive, mainly due to the high price of commercial optical interrogators. Therefore, the present work seeks to develop a low-cost optical interrogation system. For this, the present study proposes the development of this system based on the use of tunable filters and edge filters in the monitoring of low and high frequencies, and consequent digital processing of the collected signals through the find_picks algorithm and the Fourier transform. As a result, it was possible to observe the adequate functioning of the tunable filters, with the validation of the system using a FBG, and a previous simulation for the edge filter system with frequencies superior to 100 kHz.
The Effect of Food and Financial Remittances on Household Food Security in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Barnabas Bulus , Bavorova Miroslava , Zhllima Edvin , Imami Drini , Pilařová Tereza , Umar Awal
Published: May 2023

Remittances from migrants are an important livelihood strategy to mitigate the impact of adverse economic conditions, particularly in developing countries and rural areas. This study examines how migration and remittances affect household food security by analysing data collected from 180 farmers in northern Nigeria in 2018. The descriptive results show that households use remittances mainly for health care and education. Remittances are most commonly provided in the form of finances and food. Binary logit regression results show that food remittances have a significant positive impact on food security status. Financial remittances did not have a statistically significant impact on food security. As the number of migrants in a household increases, the probability that the household is food secure decreases. The propensity scores matching result also showed that migrant households receiving food remittances were more food secure. In light of these findings, we emphasized the need to include both financial and food remittances in studies to understand the effect on food security.
Effects of silicon concentration on the magnetic and structural properties of nanostructured Fe-Si alloy synthesized by ball mill process
Authors: OUADAH M'hamed , YOUNES Abderrahmane
Published: May 2023

This study aims to elaborate on the production of a nanostructured Fe-Si alloy with varying silicon concentrations and how it can enhance the magnetic properties of the alloy. In order to achieve this, the mechanical alloying technique was employed to create the nanostructured alloy. After the mechanical ball milling process, the morphological, structural, and magnetic properties of the alloy were thoroughly analyzed using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The results from these techniques revealed significant changes in the properties of the alloy. One of the major findings of this study was the appearance of Fe3Si phase, commonly known as Suessite, after the mechanical milling process. This indicates that the milling process caused a transformation in the crystal structure of the alloy. Additionally, an increase in silicon concentration led to a reduction in crystallite sizes, which was observed through the XRD analysis. Furthermore, the lattice strain and lattice parameters of the alloy were observed to increase with increasing silicon concentration until it reached 3%. After this point, the value of the lattice parameter remained constant, indicating that further increases in silicon concentration did not significantly impact the lattice structure of the alloy. The milled samples exhibit improved magnetic properties, with increased saturation magnetization values observed as the silicon concentration increased.
Modulation of wound healing regulators by thermal spring water from La Bourboule
Authors: OUEDRAOGO Zangbéwendé Guy , Fouache Allan , Trousson Amalia , Wilmo James Jr , Filaire Edith , Berthon Jean-Yves , Fogli Anne , Sapin Vincent , Baron Silvère , Lobaccaro Jean-Marc A.
Published: May 2023

Thermal spring waters have been a source of treatment for curing or alleviating symptoms of various pathologies. However, despite some supporting literature of the late 19th century, there has been a gradual decrease in their use as the exact mechanisms remained unknown. The thermal spring water from La Bourboule (BW) in Central France, is still being used for treating skin diseases. To decipher how BW has beneficial effects on wound healing, we cultured HaCaT keratinocytes with increasing percentages of BW and analysed their properties by a scratch assay. Production of cytokines, metallopeptidases, and accumulation of mRNA of genes encoding proteins involved in wound healing processes were also investigated. Our results show that BW significantly increases the wound healing capacities of HaCaT cells by 12% at 24h, paralleled with a significant increase of TGFb1-3 mRNA accumulation (1.3 to 2.2-fold) and TGFb1 production (1.3-fold) at 24h. Conversely, MMPs’ mRNA and/or peptides are reduced. IL6, TNFa and other factors playing in the wound healing processes are modulated at transcript and/or protein levels. Altogether, this study suggests that BW modulates, in vitro, the growth and functioning of keratinocytes through molecular mechanisms, which deserve to be investigated further.
Optimization of Framed Structures Subjected to Blast Loading Using Equivalent Static Loads Method
Authors: Al-Bazoon Mustafa , Arora Jasbir S.
Published: May 2023

In this study, the optimum design of a three-dimensional framed steel structure subjected to blast loading is considered. The main idea of this research is to develop a practical formulation for the design optimization problem and to study the effect of including blast loads in the design process. The optimization problem is formulated to minimize the total weight of the structure subjected to American Institution of Steel Construction (AISC) strength requirements and blast design displacement constraints. The design variables for beams and columns are the discrete values of the W-shapes selected from the AISC tables. A car carrying 250 lbs of Trinitrotoluene with a 50 ft standoff distance from the front face is modeled as the source of the blast loading. Pressure-time histories are calculated on the front, sides, roof, and rear faces of the structure. Since the problem functions are not differentiable with respect to the design variables, the gradient-based optimization algorithms cannot be used to solve the problem. Therefore, metaheuristic algorithms are used to solve the optimization problem. Linear and nonlinear dynamic analyses are carried out in the optimization process. The problems are solved using metaheuristic optimization with the equivalent static loads method (MOESL). In MOESL, the dynamic load is transformed into equivalent static loads (ESLs) then the linear static analysis is carried out in the optimization process. The problems are 4-bay×4-bay×3-story frames under serviceability and blast loading. It is shown that a penalty on the optimum structural weight is substantial for designing structures to withstand blast loads.
Optimizing Vehicle Joints through Adaptive Stacking Model and Discrete Marine Predator Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhang C. L. , He Z. C. , Li Eric , Cheng A. G. , Huang J. , Yang D. F.
Published: May 2023

The design of vehicle body joints is a critical aspect of the conceptual design process. Joint structures significantly affect the mechanical performance of vehicle bodies. However, due to the nonlinear relationship between joints and body performance, it is challenging to develop an explicit expression for optimization. Furthermore, traditional finite element analysis is impractical due to the vast number of possible joint configurations. Therefore, we propose a surrogate model-based optimization method to address this problem. First, we propose an intelligent adaptive stacking method (IASM) to establish the surrogate model. We evaluate the performance of IASM and other competitors on 34 benchmark functions and 3 open engineering projects, and IASM demonstrates the best predictive performance overall. Next, we construct joint modules with different configurations as candidate modules, which we connect to the vehicle body using beam units to build the simplified vehicle body (JMBB). JMBB significantly reduces the computational cost of finite element simulation, generating training samples for IASM. We then propose a discrete marine predator algorithm (DAMPA) to optimize the joints based on IASM. Compared to the genetic algorithm, DAMPA identifies joint modules with better mechanical performances. To validate the effectiveness of our method, we modify the base vehicle body using the optimized joints, resulting in a 7.4 kg reduction in body mass while enhancing four other mechanical metrics.
Hydrogels enriched with carbon nanotubes for electrocardiography
Authors: Kołodziej Leszek , Iwasinska-Kowalska Olga , Wróblewski Grzegorz , Jakubowska Małgorzata , Lekawa-Raus Agnieszka
Published: May 2023

The following paper proposes methods for the formation of high-performance interface electrode materials to increase the effectiveness of signal collection from the patient’s body during electrocardiography (ECG). The electrode materials are produced via the hybridisation of commercial ECG liquid hydrogels with carbon nanotubes (CNT), often used to manufacture dry ECG electrodes. The hybrid materials were prepared by mixing hydrogels with CNT powders and wrapping them in macroscopic CNT films. In both solutions, the liquid hydrogels ensure good wetting of the epidermis, while CNTs decrease the impedance of the material and stabilise the drying process. In addition, composite materials remain soft, ensuring microconformal attachment to skin and are biocompatible. Thus such hybrid solutions combine the advantages of wet and dry ECG electrode technologies and, therefore, could enable long-term monitoring of ECG signals leading to better diagnosis and treatment of many heart disorders.
Boron and Magnesium Ions Co-doping Synergistically Enhances the Electrochemical Performance of Nickel-rich Cathode Materials
Authors: Mao Gaoqiang , Yang Ying , Yao Yingying , Jiao Wen , Yao Yu , Yu Wanjing , Tong Hui , He Hanbing
Published: May 2023

Nickel-rich ternary materials still suffer from defects of poor structure stability, fast capacity decay and poor rate performance, which inhibits their practical application in power batteries. Herein, a novel nickel-rich LiNi0.74Co0.14Mn0.12O2 cathode material co-doped with metallic and non-metallic ions was designed and prepared. The doped Mg2+ ions enter the lithium layers, reducing the Li+/Ni2+ cation mixing of the material; act as pillars, stabilizing the layered framework. While the doped B3+ ions occupy the tetrahedral sites, which expand the interlayer spacing and accelerate the diffusion of lithium ions. Furthermore, B3+ ions change the microstructure of the primary particles, alleviate the structural strain during the long cycle process and maintains the stability of the layered structure. Owing to the synergistic effect of Mg2+ and B3+ doping, the co-doped material exhibits superior electrochemical performance. A discharge capacity of 127.6 mAh·g− 1 at 10 C, as well as a capacity retention of 91.33% after 100 cycles at 1 C rate was achieved in the co-doped material. This metallic and non-metallic ions co-doping ternary material demonstrates its superiority compared with the single-element modified material.
Heavy Metal Content and Risk Assessment in Trachurus trachurus Investigated from the Marmara Sea
Authors: Sap Ayse , Zongur Alper , Ozcan Cemile
Published: May 2023

Aquaculture is an important nutrient for humans, and their living environment, sea water, must be of high quality. Toxic metals are one of the most important causes of marine pollution and marine organisms can accumulate such compounds in their bodies. It is extremely important to evaluate the health risks of fish, which is the most consumed sea creature by humans, in terms of toxic elements for public health. In this study, some heavy metal concentrations were determined using FAAS in the muscle and liver tissues of Trachurus trachurus species grown in the Marmara Sea, and the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk possibilities related to these heavy metals were evaluated. According to the results of the research, it was seen that there was no relationship between fish weight and length and element content in muscle tissue. Compared with muscle tissue, liver tissue accumulated more metal content. It was determined that all elemental concentrations in muscle tissue were below the permissible limit. In addition, it was observed that these fish species were weak in terms of nutritional elements. The estimated daily intake values of all elements were found to be much lower than the reference doses. The target hazard quotient and hazardous index values for essential and toxic elements were below the limit value. It was decided that daily consumption of these fish does not pose a lifelong carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health risk. The Pb concentration detected in the liver was observed to exceed the permissible limit. This situation suggests that the Marmara Sea should be examined in terms of Pb pollution.