bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis of interface pressures in transfemoral prosthetic sockets
Authors: Paternò Linda , Truppa Luigi , Ibrahimi Michele , Rosini Elisa , Gruppioni Emanuele , Ricotti Leonardo , Menciassi Arianna 
Published: June 2023

Background:
Among the different factors affecting socket comfort, the pressure applied on residual limb tissues is a crucial parameter for the success or failure of any prosthetic device. However, only a few incomplete data are available on people with transfemoral amputation, in this regard. This work aims at filling this gap in the literature.

Methods:
Ten people with transfemoral amputation wearing 3 different socket designs were recruited in this study: 2 ischial containment sockets featured by proximal trim lines that contain the ischial tuberosity and ramus and greater trochanter, 2 subischial sockets with proximal trim lines under the ischium level, and 6 quadrilateral sockets with proximal trim lines that contain the greater trochanter and create a horizontal seat for the ischial tuberosity. The pressure values at the anterior, lateral, posterior, and medial areas of the socket interface were recorded during 5 locomotion tasks (ie, horizontal, ascent, and descent walking, upstairs and downstairs) by using an F-Socket System (Tekscan Inc., Boston, MA). Gait segmentation was performed by exploiting plantar pressure, which was acquired by an additional sensor under the foot. Mean and standard deviation of minimum and maximum values were calculated for each interface area, locomotion task, and socket design. The mean pressure patterns during different locomotion tasks were reported, as well.

Results:
Considering all subjects irrespective of socket design, the mean pressure range resulted 45.3 (posterior)–106.7 (posterior) kPa in horizontal walking; 48.3 (posterior)–113.8 (posterior) kPa in ascent walking; 50.8 (posterior)–105.7 (posterior) kPa in descent walking; 47.9 (posterior)–102.9 (lateral) kPa during upstairs; and 41.8 (posterior)–84.5 (anterior) kPa during downstairs. Qualitative differences in socket designs have been found.

Conclusions:
These data allow for a comprehensive analysis of pressures acting at the tissue-socket interface in people with transfemoral amputation, thus offering essential information for the design of novel solutions or to improve existing ones, in this field.
A NETWORK PHARMACOLOGY-BASED TREATMENT ANALYSIS OF LUTEOLIN FOR REGULATING PYROPTOSIS IN ACUTE LUNG INJURY
Authors: Zhang Danying , Li Yifan , Jiang Weiwei , Li Wenfang , Yuan Xiaowei , Lin Zhaofen 
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT

Background: Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe manifestation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, are complicated pulmonary inflammatory conditions for which standard therapeutics are still not well established. Although increasing research has indicated the anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant effects of luteolin, especially in lung diseases, the molecular mechanisms underlying luteolin treatment remain largely unclear. Methods: The potential targets of luteolin in ALI were explored using a network pharmacology-based strategy and further validated in a clinical database. The relevant targets of luteolin and ALI were first obtained, and the key target genes were analyzed using a protein-protein interaction network, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. The targets of luteolin and ALI were then combined to ascertain the relevant pyroptosis targets, followed by Gene Ontology analysis of core genes and molecular docking of key active compounds to the antipyroptosis targets of luteolin in resolving ALI. The expression of the obtained genes was verified using the Gene Expression Omnibus database. In vivo and in vitro experiments were performed to explore the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action of luteolin against ALI. Results: Fifty key genes and 109 luteolin pathways for ALI treatment were identified through network pharmacology. Key target genes of luteolin for treating ALI via pyroptosis were identified. The most significant target genes of luteolin in ALI resolution included AKT1, NOS2, and CTSG. Compared with controls, patients with ALI had lower AKT1 expression and higher CTSG expression. Luteolin simply reduced systemic inflammation and lung tissue damage in septic mice. Furthermore, we blocked AKT1 expression and found luteolin reduced the degree of lung injury and affected NOS2 levels. Conclusions: As demonstrated by a network pharmacology approach, luteolin may exert an antipyroptosis effect on ALI via AKT1, NOS2, and CTSG.
Microbial Associates of the Elm Leaf Beetle: Uncovering the Absence of Resident Bacteria and the Influence of Fungi on Insect Performance
Authors: Schott Johanna , Rakei Juliette , Remus-Emsermann Mitja , Johnston Paul , Mbedi Susan , Sparmann Sarah , Hilker Monika , Paniagua Voirol Luis R. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractMicrobial symbionts play crucial roles in the biology of many insects. While bacteria have been the primary focus of research on insect-microbe symbiosis, recent studies suggest that fungal symbionts may be just as important. The elm leaf beetle (ELB,Xanthogaleruca luteola) is a serious pest species of elm (Ulmus minor). Using culture-dependent and independent methods, we investigated the abundance and species richness of bacteria and fungi throughout various ELB life stages and generations, while concurrently analysing microbial communities on elm leaves. No persistent bacterial community was found to be associated with the ELB or elm leaves. By contrast, fungi were persistently present in the beetle’s feeding life stages and on elm leaves. Fungal community sequencing revealed a predominance of the generaPenicilliumandAspergillusin insects and on leaves. Culture-dependent surveys showed a high prevalence of two fungal colony morphotypes closely related toPenicillium lanosocoeruleumandAspergillus flavus. Among these, thePenicilliummorphotype was significantly more abundant on feeding-damaged compared to intact leaves, suggesting that the fungus thrives in the presence of the ELB. We assessed whether the detected prevalent fungal morphotypes influenced ELB’s performance by rearing insects on i) surface-sterilised leaves, ii) leaves inoculated withPenicilliumspores, and iii) leaves inoculated withAspergillusspores. Insects feeding onPenicillium-inoculated leaves gained more biomass and tended to lay larger egg clutches than those consuming surface-sterilised leaves orAspergillus-inoculated leaves. Our results demonstrate that the ELB does not harbour resident bacteria and that it might benefit from associating withPenicilliumfungi.ImportanceOur study provides insights into the still understudied role of microbial symbionts in the biology of the ELB, a major pest of elms. Contrary to expectations, we found no persistent bacterial symbionts associated with the ELB or elm leaves. Our research thus contributes to the growing body of knowledge that not all insects rely on bacterial symbionts. While no persistent bacterial symbionts were detectable in the ELB and elm leaf samples, our analyses revealed the persistent presence of fungi, particularlyPenicilliumandAspergilluson both elm leaves and in the feeding ELB stages. Moreover, when ELB were fed with fungus-treated elm leaves, we detected a potentially beneficial effect ofPenicilliumon the ELB’s development and fecundity. Our results highlight the significance of fungal symbionts in the biology of this insect.
A Bioluminescent Activity Dependent (BLADe) Platform for Converting Neuronal Activity to Photoreceptor Activation
Authors: Crespo Emmanuel L. , Pal Akash , Prakash Mansi , Silvagnoli Alexander D. , Zaidi Zohair , Gomez-Ramirez Manuel , Tree Maya O. , Shaner Nathan C. , Lipscombe Diane , Moore Christopher , Hochgeschwender Ute 
Published: June 2023

AbstractWe developed a platform that utilizes a calcium-dependent luciferase to convert neuronal activity into activation of light sensing domains within the same cell. The platform is based on aGaussialuciferase variant with high light emission split by calmodulin-M13 sequences that depends on influx of calcium ions (Ca2+) for functional reconstitution. In the presence of its luciferin, coelenterazine (CTZ), Ca2+influx results in light emission that drives activation of photoreceptors, including optogenetic channels and LOV domains. Critical features of the converter luciferase are light emission low enough to not activate photoreceptors under baseline condition and high enough to activate photosensing elements in the presence of Ca2+and luciferin. We demonstrate performance of this activity-dependent sensor and integrator for changing membrane potential and driving transcription in individual and populations of neuronsin vitroandin vivo.
SARS-CoV-2 testing in the Slovak Republic from March 2020 to September 2022 – summary of the pandemic trends
Authors: Janostiakova Nikola , Gnip Andrej , Kodada Dominik , Saade Rami , Blandova Gabriela , Mikova Emilia , Tibenska Elena , Repiska Vanda , Minarik Gabriel 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has been part of Slovakia since March 2020. Intensive laboratory testing ended in October 2022, when the number of tests dropped significantly, but the state of the pandemic continues to this day. For the management of COVID-19, it is important to find an indicator that can predict pandemic changes in the community. The average daily/weekly Ct value with a certain time delay can predict changes in the number of cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which can be a useful indicator for the healthcare system. The study analyzed the results of 1,420,572 RT-qPCR tests provided by one accredited laboratory during the ongoing pandemic in Slovakia from March 2020 to September 2022. The total positivity of the analyzed tests was 24.64%. The average Ct values found were the highest in the age group of 3-5 years, equal to the number 30.75; the lowest were in the age group > 65 years, equal to the number 27. The average weekly Ct values ranged from 22.33 (pandemic wave week) to 30.12 (summer week). We have summarized the results of SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing in Slovakia with the scope defined by the rate and positivity of tests carried out at Medirex a.s. laboratories.
No sex differences in oxygen uptake or extraction kinetics in the moderate or heavy exercise intensity domains
Authors: Solleiro Pons Maria , Bernert Lina , Hume Emily , Hughes Luke , Williams Zander , Burnley Mark , Ansdell Paul 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe integrative response to exercise differs between sexes, with oxidative energy contribution purported as a potential mechanism. The present study investigated whether this difference was evident in the kinetics of oxygen uptake (V□O2) and extraction (HHb+Mb) during exercise.Sixteen adults (8 males, 8 females, age: 27±5 years) completed three experimental visits. Incremental exercise testing was performed to obtain lactate threshold and V□O2peak. Subsequent visits involved three six-minute cycling bouts at 80% of lactate threshold and one 30-minute bout at a work rate 30% between the lactate threshold and power at V□O2peak. Pulmonary gas exchange and near-infrared spectroscopy of the vastus lateralis were used to continuously sample V□O2and HHb+Mb, respectively. The phase II V□O2kinetics were quantified using mono-exponential curves during moderate and heavy exercise. Slow component amplitudes were also quantified for the heavy intensity domain.Relative V□O2peakvalues were not different between sexes (p=0.111). Males achieved ∼30% greater power outputs (p=0.002). In the moderate and heavy intensity domains, the relative amplitude of the phase II transition was not different between sexes for V□O2(∼24 and ∼40% V□O2peak,p≥0.179) and HHb+Mb (∼20 and ∼32% ischemia,p≥0.193). Similarly, there were no sex differences in the time constants for V□O2(∼28 s,p≥0.385) or HHb+Mb (∼10s,p≥0.274). In the heavy intensity domain, neither V□O2(p≥0.686) or HHb+Mb (p≥0.432) slow component amplitudes were different between sexes.The oxidative response to moderate and heavy intensity exercise did not differ between males and females, suggesting similar dynamic responses of oxidative metabolism during intensity-matched exercise.New and NoteworthyThis study demonstrated no sex differences in the oxidative response to moderate and heavy intensity cycling exercise. The change in oxygen uptake and deoxyhaemoglobin were modelled with mono-exponential curve fitting, which revealed no differences in the rate of oxidative energy provision between sexes. This provides insight into previously reported sex differences in the integrative response to exercise.
T-cell inflammation is prognostic of survival in patients with high-risk neuroblastoma enriched for an adrenergic signature
Authors: Kaufman Maria E. , Vayani Omar R. , Moore Kelley , Chlenski Alexandre , Wu Tong , Chavez Gepoliano , Lee Sang Mee , Desai Ami V. , He Chuan , Cohn Susan L. , Applebaum Mark A. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractPurposeT-cell inflammation (TCI) has been shown to be a prognostic marker in neuroblastoma, a tumor comprised of cells that can exist in two epigenetic states, adrenergic (ADRN) and mesenchymal (MES). We hypothesized that elucidating unique and overlapping aspects of these biologic features could serve as novel biomarkers.Patients and MethodsWe detected lineage-specific, single-stranded super-enhancers defining ADRN and MES specific genes. Publicly available neuroblastoma RNA-seq data from GSE49711 (Cohort 1) and TARGET (Cohort 2) were assigned MES, ADRN, and TCI scores. Tumors were characterized as MES (top 33%) or ADRN (bottom 33%), and TCI (top 67% TCI score) or non-inflamed (bottom 33% TCI score). Overall survival (OS) was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences were assessed by the log-rank test.ResultsWe identified 159 MES genes and 373 ADRN genes. TCI scores were correlated with MES scores (R=0.56, p<0.001 and R=0.38, p<0.001) and anticorrelated withMYCN-amplification (R=-0.29, p<0.001 and -0.18, p=0.03) in both cohorts. Among Cohort 1 patients with high-risk, ADRN tumors (n=59), those with TCI tumors (n=22) had superior OS to those with non-inflammed tumors (n=37) (p=0.01), though this comparison did not reach significance in Cohort 2. TCI status was not associated with survival in patients with high-risk MES tumors in either cohort.ConclusionsHigh inflammation scores were correlated with improved survival in some high-risk patients with, ADRN but not MES neuroblastoma. These findings have implications for approaches to treating high-risk neuroblastoma.
Coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of lipid-protein interactions in SLC4 proteins
Authors: Zhekova Hristina R. , Ramirez-Echemendía Daniel P. , Sejdiu Besian I. , Pushkin Alexander , Tieleman D. Peter , Kurtz Ira 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe SLC4 family of secondary bicarbonate transporters is responsible for the transport of HCO3−, CO32−, Cl−, Na+, K+, NH3and H+necessary for regulation of pH and ion homeostasis. They are widely expressed in numerous tissues throughout the body and function in different cell types with different membrane properties. Potential lipid roles in SLC4 function have been reported in experimental studies, focusing mostly on two members of the family: AE1 (Cl−/HCO3−exchanger) and NBCe1 (Na+-CO32−cotransporter). Previous computational studies of the outward facing (OF) state of AE1 with model lipid membranes revealed enhanced protein-lipid interactions between cholesterol (CHOL) and phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2). However, the protein-lipid interactions in other members of the family and other conformation states are still poorly understood and this precludes the detailed studies of a potential regulatory role for lipids in the SLC4 family. In this work, we performed multiple 50 µs coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations on three members of the SLC4 family with different transport modes: AE1, NBCe1 and NDCBE (a Na+-CO32−/Cl−exchanger), in model HEK293 membranes consisting of CHOL, PIP2, phosphatidylcholine (POPC), phosphatidylethanolamine (POPE), phosphatidylserine (POPS), and sphingomyelin (POSM). The recently resolved inward-facing (IF) state of AE1 was also included in the simulations. Lipid-protein contact analysis of the simulated trajectories was performed with the ProLint server, which provides a multitude of visualization tools for illustration of areas of enhanced lipid-protein contact and identification of putative lipid binding sites within the protein matrix. We observed enrichment of CHOL and PIP2 around all proteins with subtle differences in their distribution depending on the protein type and conformation state. Putative binding sites were identified for CHOL, PIP2, POPC, and POSM in the three studied proteins and their potential roles in the SLC4 transport function, conformational transition and protein dimerization were discussed.Statement of significanceThe SLC4 protein family is involved in critical physiological processes like pH and blood pressure regulation and maintenance of ion homeostasis. Its members can be found in various tissues. A number of studies suggest possible lipid regulation of the SLC4 function. However, the protein-lipid interactions in the SLC4 family are still poorly understood. Here we make use of long coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to assess the protein-lipid interactions in three SLC4 proteins with different transport modes, AE1, NBCe1, and NDCBE. We identify putative lipid binding sites for several lipid types of potential mechanistic importance, discuss them in the framework of the known experimental data and provide a necessary basis for further studies on lipid regulation of SLC4 function.
A note on p-value multiple-testing adjustment for two-step genome-wide gene-environment interactions scans
Authors: Lewinger Juan Pablo , Kawaguchi Eric S. , Gauderman W. James 
Published: June 2023

AbstractTwo-step testing is the state-of-the art approach for performing genome-wide interaction scans (GWIS). It is computationally efficient and yields higher power than standard single-step-based GWIS for virtually all biologically plausible scenarios. However, while two-step tests control the genome-wide type I error rate at the desired level, the lack of associated valid p-values can make it difficult for users to compare with single step-results. We show how multiple-testing adjusted p-values can be defined for two-step test based on standard multiple-testing theory, and how they can be in turn scaled to make valid comparisons with single-step tests possible.
Prevalence, knowledge, causes, and practices of self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Trisha Sadia Mahmud , Ahmed Sanjana Binte , Uddin Md Fahim , Tabassum Tahsin Tasneem , Rahman Nur-A-Safrina , Gupta Mridul , Samiha Maisha , Moulee Shahra Tanjim , Al Sakir Dewan Ibna , Podder Vivek 
Published: June 2023

AbstractBackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication (SM) has become a critical element in the healthcare system. SM can ease the burden on hospitals and medical resources by treating minor illnesses. However, inappropriate SM practices can lead to adverse drug reactions, drug resistance, and incorrect diagnoses, resulting in poor health outcomes.MethodsTo evaluate the prevalence, knowledge, causes, and practices of SM among the Bangladeshi population during the COVID-19 outbreak, a cross-sectional survey with structured questionnaires was conducted in Chittagong from March to May 2022. The survey included 265 participants, with an average age of 35.09 years, and a multiple-choice questionnaire was used to gather information.ResultsThe study found that 64.15% of respondents had sufficient knowledge of SM, while 35.8% had insufficient knowledge. The primary reasons for SM during the pandemic were the influence of friends/family (90.74%), fear of infection or contact with COVID-19 cases (73.15%), and fear of quarantine or self-isolation (72.22%). Analgesics/pain relievers (84%) were the most commonly used drugs for SM for COVID-19 prevention and treatment. Antiulcerants/anti acid (42%), Vitamin C and Multivitamin (42%), and Antibiotics (32%) were also frequently used.ConclusionThis study suggests that SM is prevalent among Chittagong City residents, particularly those with less than a tertiary education. The study highlights the importance of building awareness about SM practices and taking necessary steps to control them.
Photoacoustic Imaging as a Novel Non-Invasive Biomarker to Assess Intestinal Tissue Oxygenation and Motility in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Weis Victoria G. , Cruz-Diaz Nildris , Rauh Jessica L. , Ellison Maryssa A. , Yamaleyeva Liliya M. , Welch Cherrie D. , Zeller Kristen A. , Weis Jared A. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractBackgroundWithin the premature infant intestine, oxygenation and motility play key physiological roles in healthy development and disease such as necrotizing enterocolitis. To date, there are limited techniques to reliably assess these physiological functions that are also clinically feasible for critically ill infants. To address this clinical need, we hypothesized that photoacoustic imaging (PAI) can provide non-invasive assessment of intestinal tissue oxygenation and motility to characterize intestinal physiology and health.MethodsUltrasound and photoacoustic images were acquired in 2-day and 4-day old neonatal rats. For PAI assessment of intestinal tissue oxygenation, an inspired gas challenge was performed using hypoxic, normoxic, and hyperoxic inspired oxygen (FiO2). For intestinal motility, oral administration of ICG contrast agent was used to compare control animals to an experimental model of loperamide-induced intestinal motility inhibition.ResultsPAI demonstrated progressive increases in oxygen saturation (sO2) as FiO2 increased, while the pattern of oxygen localization remained relatively consistent in both 2-day and 4-day old neonatal rats. Analysis of intraluminal ICG contrast enhanced PAI images yielded a map of the motility index in control and loperamide treated rats. From PAI analysis, loperamide significantly inhibited intestinal motility, with a 32.6% decrease in intestinal motility index scores in 4-day old rats.ConclusionThese data establish the feasibility and application of PAI to non-invasively and quantitatively measure intestinal tissue oxygenation and motility. This proof-of-concept study is an important first step in developing and optimizing photoacoustic imaging to provide valuable insight into intestinal health and disease to improve the care of premature infants.HighlightsIntestinal tissue oxygenation and intestinal motility are important biomarkers of intestinal physiology in health and disease of premature infants.This proof-of-concept preclinical rat study is the first to report application of photoacoustic imaging for the neonatal intestine.Photoacoustic imaging is demonstrated as a promising non-invasive diagnostic imaging method for quantifying intestinal tissue oxygenation and intestinal motility in premature infants.Graphical abstract