bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disulfiram downregulates ferredoxin 1 to maintain copper homeostasis and inhibit inflammation in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
Authors: Yang Shuai , Li Xudong , Yan Jinhong , Jiang Fangchao , Fan Xuehui , Jin Jing , Zhang Weihua , Li Guozhong , Zhong Di 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the current study, we aimed to investigate whether disulfiram (DSF) plays a neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (CI-RI) injury by regulating ferredoxin 1 (FDX1) by modulating copper ion (Cu) levels and inhibiting the inflammatory response. To simulate CI-RI, a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model in C57/BL6 mice was employed. Mice were administered with or without DSF before and after tMCAO. Changes in infarct volume after tMCAO were observed using TTC staining. Nissl staining and hematoxylin-eosin (he) staining were used to observe the morphological changes of nerve cells at the microscopic level. FDX1 is the main regulatory protein of copper death, and the occurrence of copper death will lead to the increase of HSP70 stress and inflammatory response. Cuproptosis-related proteins and downstream inflammatory factors were detected by western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and immunohistochemistry. The content of copper ions was detected using a specific kit, while electron microscopy was employed to examine mitochondrial changes. We found that DSF reduced the cerebral infarction volume, regulated the expression of cuproptosis-related proteins, and reduced FDX1 expression without inducing Cu accumulation. Moreover, DSF inhibited the HSP70/TLR-4/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Collectively, DSF could regulate Cu homeostasis by inhibiting FDX1, acting on the HSP70/TLR4/NLRP3 pathway to alleviate CI/RI. Accordingly, DSF could mitigate inflammatory responses and safeguard mitochondrial integrity, yielding novel therapeutic targets and mechanisms for the clinical management of ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Simulation of a Rohksar-Kivelson ladder on a NISQ device
Authors: Gupta Sabhyata , Javanmard Younes , Osborne Tobias , Santos Luis 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We present a quantum-classical algorithm to study the dynamics of the Rohksar-Kivelson plaquette ladder on NISQ devices. We show that complexity is largely reduced using gauge invariance, additional symmetries, and a crucial property associated to how plaquettes are blocked against ringexchange in the ladder geometry. This allows for an efficient simulation of sizable plaquette ladders with a small number of qubits, well suited for the capabilities of present NISQ devices. We illustrate the procedure for ladders with simulation of up to 8 plaquettes in an IBM-Q machine, employing scaled quantum gates.
Burnout Components, Perceived Stress and Hair Cortisol in Health Workers During the Second Year of Covid 19 Pandemic
Authors: Fortuna Federico , Gonzalez Diego , Fritzler Analy , Ibar Carolina , Nenda Graciela , D'Isa Estela , Otero Patricia , Jamardo Juan , Calvo Mariela , Funez Florencia , Minotti Florencia , Filipuzzi Laura , Canellas Noelia , Jacobsen Dario , Azzara Sergio , Iglesias Silvia , Gutierrez Guillermo , Aranda Claudio , Berg Gabriela , Fabre Bibiana 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers in Argentina, during the second wave in 2021. The aim is to assess stress, burnout, and anxiety levels, incorporating the assessment of hair cortisol levels as a biomarker of chronic stress. A total of 496 healthcare workers from three different hospitals were included in this study. Two of these hospitals depend on the Buenos Aires City Ministry of Health and the third hospital belongs to Buenos Aires University. Hair samples were obtained using scissors from the posterior vertex, as close to the scalp as possible. Each sample was weighed, and cortisol was extracted and then measured using an automated chemiluminescent method. Notably, 10% of the population exhibited hair cortisol levels above 128 pg/mg. Anxiety scores surpassed medians for 38%, 52%, and 39% of healthcare workers at Argerich, Clínicas, and Durand Hospitals, respectively. Associations were found between high hair cortisol levels and age, workload, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization. In addition, burnout, identified in 11% of participants, correlated with higher perceived stress, lower social support, and higher anxiety scores. Binary logistic regression revealed associations between burnout and perceived stress, anxiety, and age. Finally, mediation analysis showed depersonalization as a mediating variable in the relationship between hair cortisol concentration and emotional exhaustion. In conclusion, this study highlights the complex relationships between anxiety, stress, cortisol levels, and burnout. Prioritizing interventions and research is essential to support the well-being of frontline healthcare professionals, ensuring their resilience during challenging times.
Oocyte mitochondria link maternal environment to offspring phenotype
Authors: Burton Nick , Cooper Jason , Nguyen Kim , Gates Darrick , Wolfram Emily , Capan Colt , Lee Hyoungjoo , Williams Devia , Okoye Chidozie , Wojtovich Andrew 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

During maturation oocytes undergo a recently discovered mitochondrial proteome remodeling event in flies1, frogs1, and humans2. This oocyte mitochondrial remodeling, which includes substantial changes in electron transport chain (ETC) subunit abundance1,2, is regulated by maternal insulin signaling1. Why oocytes undergo mitochondrial remodeling is unknown, with some speculating that it might be an evolutionarily conserved mechanism to protect oocytes from genotoxic damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS)2. In Caenorhabditis elegans, we previously found that maternal exposure to osmotic stress drives a 50-fold increase in offspring survival in response to future osmotic stress3. Like mitochondrial remodeling, we found that this intergenerational adaptation is also regulated by insulin signaling to oocytes3. Here, we used proteomics and genetic manipulations to show that insulin signaling to oocytes regulates offspring’s ability to adapt to future stress via a mechanism that depends on ETC composition in maternal oocytes. Specifically, we found that maternally expressed mutant alleles of nduf-7 (complex I subunit) or isp-1 (complex III subunit) altered offspring’s response to osmotic stress at hatching independently of offspring genotype. Furthermore, we found that expressing wild44 type isp-1 in germ cells (oocytes) was sufficient to restore offspring’s normal response to osmotic stress. Chemical mutagenesis screens revealed that maternal ETC composition regulates offspring’s response to stress by altering AMP kinase function in offspring which in turn regulates both ATP and glycerol metabolism in response to continued osmotic stress. To our knowledge, these data are the first to show that proper oocyte ETC composition is required to link a mother’s environment to adaptive changes in offspring metabolism. The data also raise the possibility that the reason diverse animals exhibit insulin regulated remodeling of oocyte mitochondria is to tailor offspring metabolism to best match the environment of their mother.
Regulatory Role of Sulfated Polysaccharides Fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus against Oxidative and Transcriptional Responses in liver of sulfoxaflor exposed mice: assessment of DNA damage, DNA damage repair genes (XRCC1, OGG1, APE1, and PARP1) and antioxidant status
Authors: BENLI PETEK PINER , DAGLIOGLU YUSUF KENAN , COSKUN CAGIL 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This research aimed to determine regulatory role of sulfated polysaccharides fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus against oxidative and transcriptional responses in liver of sulfoxaflor exposed mice liver. Fort this purpose both sulfoxaflor and fucoidan were given orally to mice for 24 hours and 7 days at doses of 15 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 1/50 oral LD50) and 50 mg/kg/day. At the end of the tests, liver samples were collected and used to assess 8-OHdG levels, the mRNA expression levels of DNA damage response genes such as XRCC1, OGG1, APE1, and PARP1. Furthermore, levels of tGSH and enzyme activity of GPx, GR, and GST, as well as TBARS, were also examined. The results showed that sulfoxaflor caused oxidative responses via increasing 8-OHdG and TBARS levels and altering antioxidant status in the liver. Furthermore, sulfoxaflor increased the mRNA expression of XRCC1 and APE1 genes, which are involved in the DNA repair mechanism. It was discovered that fucoidan protected liver cells against sulfoxaflor-induced DNA damage and lipid peroxidation by activating the tGSH and GPx, GR, GST. Additionally, it had a regulatory role in the liver of mice, affecting the mRNA expression of XRCC1 and APE1.
Advancements in Skin Grafting: Development and Applications of a Novel Multi-Blade Dermatome for Concurrent Split-Thickness and Dermal Graft Harvesting A technical note and proof of principle
Authors: Dogan Sinan , Sjöberg Folke , El-Serafi Ahmed T. , Sjöberg Zacharias , Abdelrahman Islam , Steinvall Ingrid , Karlsson Matilda , Olofsson Pia , Lindford Andrew , Vuola Jyrki , Elmasry Moustafa 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This investigation delineates the evolution and prospective utilisations of an innovative multi-blade dermatome, designed for the concurrent harvesting of a conventional split-thickness skin graft (STSG) and additional dermal graft within the same surgical harvest. Historically, the extraction of dermal grafts has encountered substantial technical impediments, contributing to its limited acceptance and utilisation in clinical practice. The prototype dermatome, introduced in this technical note and demonstrative of a proof of principle application, offers a technical resolution that could facilitate the more extensive adoption of dermal grafting techniques. The dermal segment of an STSG, obtained as a second graft, confers four notable advancements: Firstly, employing solely the dermal component for grafting and repositioning the uppermost skin layer to the donor site markedly diminishes donor site morbidity. Secondly, owing to its elasticity, the dermal graft reduces the need for meshing, thereby enhancing cosmetic outcomes. Thirdly, utilising both the uppermost skin later and deeper dermal layer for the recipient site can reduce donor site areas. Fourthly, the dermal segment of the graft can serve as a dermal matrix in reconstructive procedures, potentially reducing the need for an allogenic dermal matrix and possibly obviating the subsequent STSG, as the dermal graft may heal independently, eliminating the need for an additional conventional STSG. The findings of this study, predicated on the application of a first-generation multi-blade dermatome on four cadavers, demonstrate the feasibility of extracting at least two distinct grafts with pre-determined thicknesses in a single, technically less challenging, surgical harvest procedure. In conclusion, this proof-of-concept research elucidates the feasibility of a multi-blade dermatome, capable of simultaneously yielding at least one conventional STSG and one dermal graft, thereby simplifying the skin graft harvesting. Although these preliminary investigations were conducted on human cadavers, the results hold promise for the development of multi-blade dermatomes and represent a significant advancement in skin graft harvesting. Further research is imperative to refine the prototype and to broaden our comprehension of the potential applications of dermal grafting in various clinical scenarios, where dermal grafts may prove beneficial.
Feedback Controllability is a Normative Theory of Neural Population Dynamics
Authors: Bouchard Kristofer , Kumar Ankit 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Brain computations emerge from collective dynamics of distinct neural populations. Behaviors in- cluding reaching and speech are explained by principles of feedback control. However, if feedback control explains neural population dynamics is unknown. We created dimensionality reduction methods that identify subspaces of neural population data that are most feed-forward controllable (FFC) vs. feedback controllable (FBC). We showed that FBC and FFC subspaces diverge for dynamics generated by neuro- anatomical connectivity. In neural recordings from monkey M1/S1 during reaching, FBC subspaces were better decoders of reach kinematics. Compared to FFC subspaces, FBC subspaces emerged from col- lective interactions of a population of neurons with distinct activity profiles. Finally, we revealed that FBC subspaces emphasize rotational dynamics due to enhanced system stability, while FFC subspaces emphasize scaling dynamics. These results demonstrate feedback controllability is a novel, normative theory of neural population dynamics, and connect distinct neuronal populations to differing regimes of emergent dynamics carrying out distinct computations.
Simulation for Gap Estimation of Freeform Surfaces Assembly Based on Complex Measurement Data
Authors: Poniatowska Małgorzata , WERNER Andrzej , Wojtowicz Adam 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a simulation method for evaluating the accuracy of assembly of two mating freeform surfaces based on the spatial CAD model of the gap between the surfaces. CAD models of actual surfaces are the basis for determining the gap model. Digital measurement data representing form profiles are determined in measurements on a coordinate measuring machine according to a regular grid of points, and data representing waviness and surface roughness on a profilometer. The SGP components separated in the measurement process are summed up in the CAD modeling process. In the next step, a closure simulation is carried out by docking the inverted complex model of one surface to the surface model of the other surface. In this way, a spatial complex CAD model of the gap between the surfaces is obtained, mapping the effect of all the components of the irregularity on the tightness of the assembly. Based on the obtained model, it is possible to determine its maximum dimension (estimate the local width of the gap between actual surfaces) and the average of local dimensions, but also to illustrate the detailed distribution of local dimensions of this model in the form of a color map. The effectiveness of the proposed method was verified experimentally for the closing surfaces of the elements of the injection mold (cavity and core).
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity and Mechanical Properties of GIC incorporated with Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles
Authors: Kheraif Abdul Aziz Al , Wasi Aisha , Alhamoudi Fahad Hussain 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Objectives: Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are widely used in dentistry due to their adhesive properties, biocompatibility, and fluoride release. However, their mechanical limitations have prompted research into enhancing their properties. Hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles have gained attention for their biocompatibility and bioactivity, making them a promising candidate for improving GICs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of incorporating HA nanoparticles into GIC formulations, focusing on evaluating the nano-hardness, elastic modulus and antibacterial activity.
Methods: The HA nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol-gel technique and added to GIC at varying concentrations. The study included a control group and groups with 1%, 2%, 5% HA nanoparticles. The antibacterial activity was assessed using an agar diffusion assay against common oral pathogens, demonstrating an increase in antibacterial efficacy with higher HA nanoparticle concentrations. Mechanical testing revealed a decrease in nano-hardness with increasing HA nanoparticle concentration, indicating a softer material. Conversely, an increase in Young's modulus was observed with higher HA nanoparticle concentrations, signifying enhanced stiffness and resistance to deformation. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant impact of HA treatment on the mechanical properties.
Results and conclusion: The findings suggest that HA incorporation alters the mechanical behavior of GIC, offering tailored material properties for specific clinical applications. The observed increase in antibacterial activity indicates the potential of HA incorporation to develop GICs more resistant to bacterial colonization, potentially reducing the risk of secondary caries and restoration failure. These results have critical implications for the development of advanced dental materials that combine improved mechanical performance and enhanced antibacterial properties, contributing to longer-lasting and more successful clinical outcomes.
Season of Delivery and Risk of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy in Los Angeles, California
Authors: CHUNG Helen W. , GILL Kevin S. , GRUBBS Brendan , WILSON Melissa L. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background:
Environmental risk factors such as seasonal changes have been shown to be linked to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. However, the effects of season of conception and delivery have been inconsistent and poorly studied in moderate climates such as Los Angeles. We aimed to study the effects of the season of delivery on the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Results were verified via assessment of season of conception.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study among 24,843 predominantly Hispanic women (2,360 clinically-confirmed cases of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy who delivered at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Women’s and Children’s Hospital between 1995 and 2008. The dry season was defined as April to October and the wet season as November to March. Logistic regression models were fit to estimate odds ratios for season of conception and delivery and risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression models were then fitted to estimate odds ratios of season of conception/delivery and disease severity.
Results:
Mothers who delivered in the wet season had a significantly increased risk of developing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy compared to those who delivered in the dry season (OR=1.11, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.21). These mothers were also significantly more likely to be nulliparous (OR= 2.43, 95% CI: 2.21, 2.68), 25 years of age or older (OR=1.24, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.38), have diabetes (OR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.43, 1.85), have hypertension (OR=4.99, 95% CI: 4.14, 6.00), be diagnosed with infection (OR=2.14, 95% CI: 1.21, 3.81), or have premature deliveries (OR=2.11, 95% CI: 1.90, 2.33) when compared to controls. When stratifying based on disease severity, only mild preeclampsia indicated an association with season of delivery (OR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.25). The effect for severe preeclampsia (OR=1.12, 95% Cl: 0.96, 1.31) and eclampsia/HELLP syndrome (OR=0.80, 95% CI: 0.49, 1.31) did not reach statistical significance, though power was limited in the more severe categories. Results examining the season of conception confirmed the results for the season of delivery.
Conclusions:
Among the predominantly Hispanic women who delivered at Los Angeles County + University of Southern California between 1995 and 2008, deliveries in the wet, winter season were associated with an increased risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Patients with acute decompensated heart failure in an area with a super-aging society; A single- center, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tanabe Junya , Sasaki Hiroyuki , Okazaki Kouichi , Maeda Atsuyoshi , Endo Akihiro , Nakazawa Yoshio , Tanabe Kazuaki 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
In recent years, the population of very elderly heart failure (HF) patients has been rising, but there are few reports on their characteristics, treatment, and prognosis.
Methods This study included patients aged 18 years or older with acute HF admitted to a single hospital between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2021. Patients were classified into three groups according to their echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): HF with reduced LVEF (LVEF < 40%: HFrEF), HF with mildly reduced LVEF (LVEF between 40% and 49%: HFmrEF), and HF with preserved LVEF (LVEF ≥ 50%: HFpEF).
Results
Of 524 admitted patients, 437 were discharged, including 124 with HFrEF, 62 with HFmrEF, and 251 with HFpEF. The median age was 86 years, and patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF were older than those with HFrEF. Overall, the in-hospital mortality rate was 14.1%, the 1-year composite event rate of cardiac death and heart failure readmission was 37.7%, and the 1-year all-cause death rate was 19.7%. In particular, the composite event rate was higher in patients with HFrEF than in those with HFpEF (44.0% vs. 32.8%, P = 0.03).
Conclusions
The high incidence of in-hospital mortality, composite events, and all-cause mortality in this very elderly population warrants prospective consideration of appropriate treatment choices and goal setting for these patients.
Timing of magnetic resonance imaging in pregnancy for congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Dütemeyer Vivien , Cannie Mieke , Schaible Thomas , Weis Meike , Persico Nicola , Borzani Irene , Badr Dominique , JANI Jacques 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the impact of the timing of MRI on the prediction of survival and morbidity in patients with CDH, and whether serial measurements have a beneficial value.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted in two perinatal centers, in Germany and Italy. It included 354 patients with isolated CDH having at least one fetal MRI. The severity was assessed with the observed to expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV) measured by two experienced double-blinded operators. The cohort was divided into three groups according to the gestational age (GA) at which the MRI was performed (<27, 27-32 and >32 weeks gestation [WG]). The accuracy for the prediction of survival at discharge and morbidity was analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Multiple logistic regression analyses and propensity score matching examined the population for balance. The effect of repeated MRI was evaluated in ninety-seven cases.
Results: There were no significant differences in prediction of survival when the o/e TFLV was measured before 27, between 27 and 32, and after 32 WG (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.77, 0.79, and 0.77, respectively). After adjustment for confounding factors, it was seen, that GA at MRI was not associated with survival at discharge, but the risk of mortality was higher with an intrathoracic liver position (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.30, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.12-0.78), lower GA at birth (aOR 1.48, 95%CI: 1.24-1.78) and lower o/e TFLV (aOR 1.13, 95%CI: 1.06-1.20). ROC curves showed comparable prediction accuracy for the different timepoints in pregnancy for pulmonary hypertension, the need of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and feeding aids. Serial measurements revealed no difference in change rate of the o/e TFLV according to survival.
Conclusion: The timing of MRI does not affect the prediction of survival rate or morbidity as the o/e TFLV does not change during pregnancy. Clinicians could choose any gestational age starting mid second trimester for the assessment of severity and counseling.