Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
The MEK inhibitor trametinib is effective in inhibiting the growth of canine oral squamous cell carcinoma
RNA control of reverse transcription in a diversity-generating retroelement
Episodic disability framework in the context of Long COVID: Findings from a community-engaged international qualitative study
Background Increasing numbers of adults are living with the health-related consequences of Long COVID. The Episodic Disability Framework (EDF), derived from perspectives of adults living with HIV, characterizes the multi-dimensional and episodic nature of health-related challenges (disability) experienced by an individual. Our aim was to determine the applicability of the Episodic Disability Framework to conceptualize the health-related challenges experienced among adults living with Long COVID. Methods We conducted a community-engaged qualitative descriptive study involving online semi-structured interviews. We recruited adults who self-identified as living with Long COVID via collaborator community organizations in Canada, Ireland, United Kingdom, and United States. We purposively recruited for diversity in age, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and time since initial COVID-19 infection. We used a semi-structured interview guide informed by the EDF to explore experiences of disability living with Long COVID, specifically health-related challenges and how challenges were experienced over time. We conducted a group-based content analysis. Results Of the 40 participants, the median age was 39 years; and the majority were white (73%), women (63%), living with Long COVID for ≥ 1 year (83%). Consistent with the Episodic Disability Framework, disability was described as multi-dimensional and episodic, characterized by unpredictable periods of health and illness. Experiences of disability were consistent with the three main components of the Framework: A) dimensions of disability (physical, cognitive, mental-emotional health challenges, difficulties with day-to-day activities, challenges to social inclusion, uncertainty); B) contextual factors, extrinsic (social support; accessibility of environment and health services; stigma and epistemic injustice) and intrinsic (living strategies; personal attributes) that exacerbate or alleviate dimensions of disability; and C) triggers that initiate episodes of disability. Conclusions The Episodic Disability Framework provides a way to conceptualize the multi-dimensional and episodic nature of disability experienced by adults living with Long COVID. The Framework provides guidance for future measurement of disability, and health and rehabilitation approaches to enhance practice, research, and policy in Long COVID.
Single-molecule measurements of bacteriophage lambda DNA packaging using purified terminase motor proteins and E. coli integration host factor
Abstract Biomotor-driven DNA packaging is a key step in the life cycle of many viruses. We previously developed single-molecule methods using optical tweezers to measure packaging dynamics of the bacteriophage lambda motor. The lambda system is more complex than others examined via single-molecule assays with respect to the packaging substrate and ancillary proteins required. Because of this, previous studies which efficiently detected packaging events used crude E. coli cell extracts containing host factors and the terminase packaging enzyme. However, use of extracts is suboptimal for biochemical manipulation and obfuscates interrogation of additional factors that affect the process. Here we describe an optical tweezers assay using purified lambda terminase holoenzyme. Packaging events are as efficient as with crude extracts, but only if purified E. coli integration host factor (IHF) is included in the motor assembly reactions. We find that the ATP-driven DNA translocation dynamics, motor force generation, and motor-DNA interactions without nucleotide are virtually identical to those measured with extracts. Thus, single-molecule packaging activity can be fully recapitulated in a minimal system containing only purified lambda procapsids, purified terminase, IHF, and ATP. This sets the stage for single-molecule studies to investigate additional phage proteins known to play essential roles in the packaging reaction.
The sequence–structure–function relationship of intrinsic ERα disorder
“If everyone comes together, many things can be changed”: A qualitative study on men’s perspectives on menstrual health and equity in the Barcelona area (Spain)
There is a paucity of research exploring how men and individuals who do not menstruate comprehend menstrual health and equity. The objective of this study was to explore the conceptualization and attitudes towards menstruation and the menstrual cycle among men and people who do not menstruate aged between 18 and 55 in the Barcelona area. Furthermore, it examined their involvement in menstrual health and equity initiatives. This qualitative study employed a feminist critical perspective. Seventeen semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews were conducted. It was frequently observed that menstrual education was often inadequate and biomedical in nature. Participants often acquired knowledge about menstruation through interactions with menstruating sex-affective partners. Menstruation was generally perceived negatively, and menstrual taboo and stigma were apparent. Some participants expressed the view that men should raise awareness of a more positive stance on menstruation. The findings of this study highlight the need for structural menstrual policies and community programs where men and people who do not menstruate are involved.
Optimizing charge pathways by interface engineering in Fe2O3/Co3O4/Co(PO3)2 heterostructures for superior oxygen evolution reaction
The synthetic opioid fentanyl increases HIV replication in macrophages
Background The illicit use of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl has led to a serious public health crisis in the US. People with opioid use disorder are more likely to contract infections such as HIV and viral hepatitis and experience more severe disease. While several drugs of abuse are known to enhance viral replication and suppress immunologic responses, the effects of synthetic opioids on HIV pathogenesis have not been investigated thoroughly. Thus, we examined the impact of fentanyl on HIV replication and chemokine receptor expression in the U937 cell line and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs). Methods U937 cells were exposed to varying concentrations of fentanyl. Expression levels of the CXCR4 and CCR5 chemokine receptors were measured in cell lysates. HIV p24 antigen was quantified in culture supernatants by ELISA, and HIV proviral DNA was quantified in cells using SYBR real-time PCR targeting the pol gene. RNAseq was performed to characterize cellular gene regulation in the presence of fentanyl. Results Fentanyl induced HIV p24 expression and proviral DNA levels in U937 cells and in primary MDMs. The opioid antagonist naltrexone blocked the effect of fentanyl and reversed the expression of HIV protein and proviral DNA. Fentanyl led to a non-significant decrease in CXCR4 and CCR5 protein levels in U937 cells. RNA sequencing identified several differentially expressed genes in cells infected with HIV and exposed to fentanyl compared to infected cells with no drug exposure. Several microRNAs were also differentially expressed upon fentanyl exposure but not at a statistically significant level. Conclusion These data demonstrate that the synthetic opioid fentanyl can promote HIV replication in macrophages. As higher HIV levels lead to accelerated disease progression and a higher risk of transmission to others, further research is needed to better understand opioid-virus interactions and to develop new and/or optimized treatment strategies for people living with HIV and opioid use.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Precision biochar yield forecasting employing random forest and XGBoost with Taylor diagram visualization
Abstract Waste-to-energy conversion via pyrolysis has attracted increasing attention recently owing to its multiple uses. Among the products of this process, biochar stands out for its versatility, with its yield influenced by various factors. Extensive and labor-intensive experimental testing is sometimes necessary to properly grasp the output distribution from various feedstocks. Nonetheless, data-driven predictive models using large-scale historical experiment records can provide insightful analysis of projected yields from a variety of biomass materials, hence overcoming the challenges of empirical modeling. As such, five modern approaches available in modern machine learning are employed in this study to develop the biochar yield prediction models. The Lasso regression, Tweedie regression, random forest, XGBoost, and Gradient boosting regression were employed. Out of these five XGBoost was superior with a training mean squared error (MSE) of 1.17 and a test MSE of 2.94. The XGBoost-based biochar yield model shows excellent performance with a strong predictive accuracy of the R 2 values as 0.9739 (training) and 0.8875 (test). The mean absolute percentage error value was only 2.14% in the training phase and 3.8% in the testing phase. Precision prognostic technologies have broad effects on sectors including biomass logistics, conversion technologies, and effective biomass utilization as renewable energy. Leveraging SHAP based on cooperative game theory, the study shows that while ash and moisture lower biochar yield, FPT, nitrogen, and carbon content significantly boost it. Small variables like heating rate and volatile matter have a secondary impact on production efficiency.
Learn COVID pandemic lessons — before it’s too late
Epidemiological landscape of androgenetic alopecia in the US: An All of Us cross-sectional study
Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is extremely prevalent with a multifactorial etiology. Materials We conducted a cross-sectional study using the All of US (AoU) dataset Sept 2024 to better understand the epidemiology, social determinants and management of AGA. Results Most males were 20–39 years old and females 60–69 years old. Men typically have an earlier onset of AGA than females. Male AGA is generally managed with finasteride; oral minoxidil is prescribed in younger males. Females are prescribed spironolactone and oral minoxidil with finasteride in post-menopausal females. There was very little dutasteride prescribed. Topical minoxidil is available over the counter and was not evaluated. Early in 2011 there were reports of the Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS); subsequently, the finasteride prescription rate fell to about 10–20% of the pre-PFS prescription rate. There was increased reporting for AGA in those who drink, have an annual household income ≥$75,000, and those with a higher level of education. There was also higher reporting of female AGA in those with anxiety and depression. Patients with higher income and education may have less pressing medical concerns enabling them to bring their AGA to the physician’s attention. Females in whom the AGA affects their anxiety and depression may seek help for the AGA as a way to address their underlying disorder. Conclusions This study provides a snapshot of the epidemiology and management of AGA in the USA. AGA is linked to the social determinants of health; addressing the AGA may help better manage the underlying mental and physical state.
Fighting Zoom fatigue: Evidence-based approaches in university online education
Abstract As the world has rapidly transitioned to virtual platforms for education due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a new phenomenon known as “Zoom fatigue” has emerged. This term refers to the exhaustion associated with the extensive use of virtual communication platforms. In this context, the present study investigates the effects of different virtual class settings on cognitive load and fatigue. Four interventions were examined: self-view on vs. self-view off, focus-view function vs. grid-view function, activating a virtual background vs. natural background, and active participation vs. no active participation. The results suggest that turning off self-view can significantly reduce both cognitive load and fatigue. However, the effects of focus-view function vs. grid-view function did not reach significance for either cognitive load or fatigue. Similarly, using a virtual background vs. a natural background did not significantly affect fatigue, but it did influence cognitive load, with higher values for virtual backgrounds. Lastly, active participation in classes was associated with decreased fatigue and lower extraneous cognitive load compared to no active participation. The findings highlight the importance of considering both technological aspects (e.g., self-view, background settings) and pedagogical approaches (e.g., active participation) in online teaching to promote a more engaging and less fatiguing learning environment.
Overtopping risk of high-hazard embankment dam under climate change condition
Climate change poses an escalating threat to the safety of high-hazard embankment dams, increases flood discharge impacting dam overtopping risk by altering the hydrological load of the original dam designed capacity. This paper’s primary aims are to evaluate climate change’s influence on extreme rainfall events and their impact on dam safety and to assess the overtopping risk of Batu Dam under various climate scenarios. This study focusses on assessing the overtopping risk of Batu Dam in Malaysia, utilizing regional climate model projections from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5) spanning 2020 to 2100. Three Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs)—RCP4.5, RCP6.0, and RCP8.5 as the scenario and divide into 3 period of study: early century (2020–2046), mid (2047–2073) and late-century (2074–2100) evaluated with hydrological analysis to access the dam safety. Using the Linear Scaling Method (LSM), we corrected the bias projection rainfall data from three Regional Climate Models (RCMs) for the RCPs. Future Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) was estimated using statistical analysis techniques developed by the National Hydraulic Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM). Additionally, Rainfall Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves were updated based on climate scenarios outlined in the Hydrological Procedure 2021 and the associated Climate Change Factors. The HEC-HMS hydrological model was employed to simulate PMF and IDF for ARIs ranging from 1 to 100,000 years, providing a comprehensive analysis of risks under future climatic conditions. Across all future climate scenarios, inflow events were projected to exceed the dam design inflow, with RCP8.5 indicating the highest inflow values, particularly later in the century, highlighting probability of overtopping risks. Late-century projections show inflow for ARI 50 under RCP8.5 exceeding PMF by 20%, while mid-century RCP6.0 results indicate a 15% higher inflow for ARI 50000. Early-century RCP4.5 shows a 10% increase for ARI 100000 compared to PMF. The study advocates adaptive dam safety management and flood protection measures. This research provides crucial insights for embankment dam owners, stressing the urgent need to address Batu Dam’s vulnerability to extreme flooding amidst climate change and emphasizing proactive measures to fortify critical infrastructure and protect downstream communities.
Safety and efficacy of a unique scleral flap in mitomycin C-augmented trabeculectomy over one year
Can digital literacy promote farmers’ cultivated land quality protection behaviors?
Cultivated land is the most valuable agricultural resource and the most important factor of production. The protection of cultivated land quality is not only the foundation of national food security but also a strategic issue related to the sustainable development of the economy and society as a whole. This paper uses survey data from Jiangxi Province’s “Double Hundred and Thousand” in 2023 and empirically analyzes the impact of digital literacy on farmers’ cultivated land quality protection behaviors and its mechanism by using the O-probit model and the mediating effect model. The results show that digital literacy can effectively promote farmers’ cultivated land quality protection behaviors. Furthermore, digital literacy can indirectly promote farmers’ cultivated land quality protection behaviors through cultivated land protection cognition and digital use ability. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that farmers are more inclined to participate in cultivated quality protection behaviors In the context of better soil fertility conditions and higher digital literacy. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously improve the digital literacy of farmers, improve their awareness of cultivated land protection, and continuously strengthen their digital use ability.
Power transformer fault diagnosis method based on multi source signal fusion and fast spectral correlation
The predictive value of changes in 18F-FDG PET/CT cardiac uptake patterns and metabolic parameters for anthracycline based chemotherapy induced cardiac toxicity in lymphoma patients
Objective This study aims to examine alterations in positron emission tomography with 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose integrated with computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) heart uptake patterns and metabolic factors before and after anthracycline-based chemotherapy in lymphoma patients, and to investigate the added benefit of oncological 18F-FDG PET/CT in chemotherapy-induced heart damage. Materials and Methods Between July 2017 and December 2022, lymphoma patients diagnosed at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University who underwent 6 cycles of anthracycline-based chemotherapy and had baseline and 6-cycle oncological 18F-FDG PET/CT scans were included. A total of 366 patients with complete data sets were enrolled. Relevant parameters including blood tests, lipid profile, cardiac biomarkers, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), albumin (ALB), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG), and cardiac ultrasound findings were collected. Patients were monitored from the initiation of chemotherapy until January 2024, and the occurrence of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT) was documented. Changes in PET/CT heart uptake patterns pre- and post-treatment, along with the presence or absence of CTR-CVT, were used to analyze alterations in left ventricular and epicardial adipose tissue metabolic parameters, as well as changes in echocardiographic parameters. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for CTR-CVT. Results Among lymphoma patients who received 6 cycles of anthracycline-based chemotherapy, compared to their initial state, there was a notable decrease in white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) levels post-treatment. Conversely, albumin (ALB) levels and blood lipid levels significantly rose after treatment. Post-treatment, the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean) of the left ventricle significantly increased, and the percentage of patients exhibiting no uptake pattern in the left ventricle significantly decreased, while those with diffuse uptake pattern notably increased. Moreover, the count of patients with abnormal cardiac uptake significantly rose post-treatment. Analyzing changes in uptake patterns, the group displaying abnormal changes exhibited an increase in left atrial diameter and a decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction compared to the group with normal changes. The SUVmax of the epicardial adipose tissue was notably higher in the abnormal change group compared to the normal change group. Based on the presence or absence of CTR-CVT, the CTR-CVT group showcased higher left atrial diameter and left ventricular end-systolic diameter, and lower left ventricular ejection fraction compared to the non-CTR-CVT group. Additionally, the SUVmax and SUVmean of the epicardial adipose tissue were higher in the CTR-CVT group than in the non-CTR-CVT group. Left atrial end-systolic diameter, left ventricular ejection fraction, SUVmax of the epicardial adipose tissue, and change in uptake pattern were identified as risk factors for CTR-CVT. Conclusion In lymphoma patients treated with anthracycline-based chemotherapy, alterations in 18F-FDG PET/CT cardiac uptake patterns and metabolic parameters observed during the follow-up period before and after treatment, as well as changes in epicardial adipose tissue metabolic parameters post-treatment, could serve as predictors for the occurrence of CTR-CVT.
Chlorogenic acid promotes fatty acid beta-oxidation to increase hESCs proliferation and lipid synthesis
Study protocol: Exploratory trial of Forza™, an osmotin-based nutraceutical as adjuvant for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis
Background Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the first cause of non-traumatic neurological disability in young adults. Primary and secondary progressive MS are still lacking effective treatments. A new nutraceutical product made of lyophilised leaves of bioengineered kiwi plants (Actinidia deliciosa) overexpressing osmotin has recently been developed. Osmotin is a protein associated with stress adaptation in plant cells and it shares anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties with mammalian adiponectin. The aim of this study is to explore the safety and the efficacy of osmotin in progressive MS (PMS). Methods This is a prospective, multicenter, single-arm interventional, baseline vs treatment study that will be carried out by two Italian MS centers, where a total of fifty PMS patients will be recruited. Every patient will take a daily dosage of 5 grams of an osmotin-based nutraceutical, named Forza™ (9th Dimension Biotech, Inc.), for 6 months. Two pre-treatment assessments, at -6 months (-6M) and at baseline visit (M0), and two post-treatment assessments, at month 1 (M1), and at month 6 (M6) will be carried out. ForzaTM safety and activity, assessed by serum Neurofilaments Light (NfL) Chain quantification, are the primary outcomes of the study. Additional assessments will consist of clinical and neuropsychological evaluations, patient reported outcomes (PROs), brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Discussion Disease modifying treatments in MS usually target inflammatory pathways with excellent results on reducing relapse associated disability but fail in preventing progression independent from relapse activity. This is a proof-of-concept study aimed at exploring the safety and the activity of an osmotin-based nutraceutical as an adjuvant treatment in PMS patients. Trial registration The trial was registered on July 10th 2023 at www.clinicaltrials.gov having identifier NCT05937802.