Functional Activities Research Articles

From disastrous heat waves to extreme rains: Effects of weather shocks on entrepreneurship

Using household panel data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey and satellite re-analysis temperature and rainfall data, we present the first study to examine the impact of weather shocks on entrepreneurship. We measure temperature and rainfall shocks at the postcode level, and find that an increase in weather shocks in the previous period is associated with a decline in the probability of self-employment in the next period. We find suggestive evidence that health, cognitive functioning and economic activity are mechanisms through which temperature shocks transmit to entrepreneurship. The key insight of this study is that it is less likely that those directly affected by climate events will act entrepreneurially, at least in the short run.

Thermodynamic analog of integrate-and-fire neuronal networks by maximum entropy modelling

Recent results have evidenced that spontaneous brain activity signals are organized in bursts with scale free features and long-range spatio-temporal correlations. These observations have stimulated a theoretical interpretation of results inspired in critical phenomena. In particular, relying on maximum entropy arguments, certain aspects of time-averaged experimental neuronal data have been recently described using Ising-like models, allowing the study of neuronal networks under an analogous thermodynamical framework. This method has been so far applied to a variety of experimental datasets, but never to a biologically inspired neuronal network with short and long-term plasticity. Here, we apply for the first time the Maximum Entropy method to an Integrate-and-fire (IF) model that can be tuned at criticality, offering a controlled setting for a systematic study of criticality and finite-size effects in spontaneous neuronal activity, as opposed to experiments. We consider generalized Ising Hamiltonians whose local magnetic fields and interaction parameters are assigned according to the average activity of single neurons and correlation functions between neurons of the IF networks in the critical state. We show that these Hamiltonians exhibit a spin glass phase for low temperatures, having mostly negative intrinsic fields and a bimodal distribution of interaction constants that tends to become unimodal for larger networks. Results evidence that the magnetization and the response functions exhibit the expected singular behavior near the critical point. Furthermore, we also found that networks with higher percentage of inhibitory neurons lead to Ising-like systems with reduced thermal fluctuations. Finally, considering only neuronal pairs associated with the largest correlation functions allows the study of larger system sizes.

Effect of Meta-Cognitive Strategy-Based Activities on Executive Functioning, Social Networking, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Among Women

Effect of Meta-Cognitive Strategy-Based Activities on Executive Functioning, Social Networking, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Among Women

Navigating the complex landscape of cardiac metabolism in health and disease states

The intricate interplay between cardiovascular health and metabolic regulation forms a critical junction in understanding the complexities of heart-related conditions. Cardiometabolic regulation orchestrates a sophisticated network of factors governing energy utilization, substrate metabolism, and cellular processes within the cardiovascular system. Balancing these mechanisms is pivotal for optimal heart function, considering the substantial energy demands for both contractile and non-contractile activities. In a healthy heart, fatty acids (FAs) derived from FA β-oxidation contribute to approximately 70% of total energy production. However, emerging evidence sheds light on pathological changes in the heart that lead to profound metabolic alterations. These alterations involve a shift from predominant FA utilization to alternative substrates such as glucose and ketone bodies, accompanied by an increased reliance on FAs. This metabolic remodeling extends beyond substrate metabolism, encompassing changes in transporter expression, the activity of metabolic-related proteins, hormonal functions, and cardiac mitochondrial energetics. This comprehensive review article delves into the intricate web of cardiometabolic regulation, elucidating the multifaceted factors influencing cardiac metabolism across diverse states encompassing health, metabolic disorders, and heart diseases. Unraveling the molecular intricacies and interconnected pathways shaping cardiac metabolism in various physiological and pathological conditions provides critical insights into the adaptive mechanisms and dysregulations associated with heart-related conditions. Furthermore, the exploration of these regulatory mechanisms offers promising avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions and diagnostic strategies in cardiovascular medicine. Integrating multidisciplinary approaches and leveraging advanced technologies will facilitate a deeper understanding of cardiac metabolism, paving the way for innovative interventions to mitigate metabolic dysregulation and optimize cardiac health.

Melatonin and its emerging physiological role in reproduction: A review and update.

Melatonin is a neuroendocrine hormone secreted by the pineal gland. The secretion of melatonin follows a circadian rhythm controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and its secretion is synchronized with the changes in light and dark periods in nature, with the highest secretion level at night. Melatonin is a critical hormone that coordinates external light stimulation and cellular responses of the body. It transmits information about the environmental light cycle, including the circadian and seasonal rhythms, to the relevant tissues and organs in the body, which, along with changes in its secretion level, ensures that its regulated functional activities are adapted in response to changes in the outside environment. Melatonin takes beneficial actions mainly through the interaction with specific membrane-bound receptors, termed MT1 and MT2. Melatonin also acts as a scavenger of free radicals via non-receptor-mediated mechanism. For more than half of acentury melatonin has been associated with vertebrate reproduction, especially in the context of seasonal breeding. Though modern humans show little remaining reproductive seasonality, the relationships between melatonin and human reproduction continue to attract extensive attention. Melatonin plays important roles in improving mitochondrial function, reducing the damage of free radicals, inducing oocyte maturation, increasing fertilization rate and promoting embryonic development, which improves the outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. The present article reviews the progress that has been made in our evolving understanding of the physiological role of melatonin in reproduction and its potential clinical applications in reproductive medicine.

К вопросу об особенностях и проблемах использования искусственного интеллекта: Сhat GPT в юридической деятельности

The subject of research in this article is the features and patterns of legal activity in comparison with the features and patterns of functioning of artificial intelligence systems, including systems based on Chat GPT technology. The purpose of the study is to analyze the features and patterns of legal activity, the features and patterns of functioning of artificial intelligence systems, including systems based on the Chat GPT technology, compare these patterns, and based on the comparison of these patterns, draw a conclusion about the degree applicability of artificial intelligence technologies for solving a particular class of legal problems. Research methods include the social experiment method, when Chat GPT was asked certain questions of a legal nature, answers to them were received and analyzed. Also during the study, general scientific research methods were used, such as analysis, synthesis, deduction, abstraction, generalization. These research methods were used to reveal the features and patterns of legal activity, the features and patterns of the functioning of artificial intelligence systems, as well as to draw conclusions about the degree of applicability of artificial intelligence technologies for solving a particular class of problems in jurisprudence.
 During the study, it was found that artificial intelligence technologies based on Chat GPT in some cases are not very suitable for solving problems related to the application of legal norms to specific situations, due to the specific “thinking” of artificial intelligence systems, which in some cases does not allow one to distinguish so-called legal circumstances that are significant in a given situation, from legal circumstances that are not significant in a given situation, the inability in some cases to correctly qualify the legal relations of the parties and make the correct legal decision with reference to current legislation. The study also analyzed the capabilities of artificial intelligence based on Chat GPT technologies for solving problems in the field of lawmaking, application and interpretation of legal norms. It is concluded that in these areas, artificial intelligence technologies, including those based on Chat GPT, have a certain potential, provided that the associative connection built by artificial intelligence between the elements of legal reality contained in the texts corresponds to the ontological connection between the objects of legal reality.

The bioaugmentation effect of microbial inoculants on humic acid formation during co-composting of bagasse and cow manure

The effective degradation of recalcitrant lignocellulose has emerged as a bottleneck for the humification of compost, and strategies are required to improve the efficiency of bagasse composting. Bioaugmentation is a promising method for promoting compost maturation and improving the quality of final compost. In this study, the bioaugmentation effects of microbial inoculants on humic acid (HA) formation during lignocellulosic composting were explored. In the inoculated group, the maximum temperature was increased to 72.5 °C, and the phenol-protein condensation and Maillard humification pathways were enhanced, thus increasing the HA content by 43.85%. After inoculation, the intensity of the microbial community interactions increased, particularly for fungi (1.4-fold). Macrogenomic analysis revealed that inoculation enriched thermophilic bacteria and lignocellulose-degrading fungi and increased the activity of carbohydrate-active enzymes and related metabolic functions, which effectively disrupted the recalcitrant structure of lignocellulose to achieve a high humification degree. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that Stappia of the Proteobacteria phylum, Ilumatobacter of the Actinomycetes phylum, and eleven genera of Ascomycota were the main HA producers. This study provides new ideas for bagasse treatment and recycling and realizing the comprehensive use of resources.

Light Cannabis Use and the Adolescent Brain: An 8-years Longitudinal Assessment of Mental Health, Cognition, and Reward Processing.

For decades, cannabis has been the most widely used illicit substance in the world, particularly among youth. Research suggests that mental health problems associated with cannabis use may result from its effect on reward brain circuit, emotional processes, and cognition. However, findings are mostly derived from correlational studies and inconsistent, particularly in adolescents. Using data from the IMAGEN study, participants (non-users, persistent users, abstinent users) were classified according to their cannabis use at 19 and 22years-old. All participants were cannabis-naïve at baseline (14years-old). Psychopathological symptoms, cognitive performance, and brain activity while performing a Monetary Incentive Delay task were used as predictors of substance use and to analyze group differences over time. Higher scores on conduct problems and lower on peer problems at 14years-old (n = 318) predicted a greater likelihood of transitioning to cannabis use within 5years. At 19years of age, individuals who consistently engaged in low-frequency (i.e., light) cannabis use (n = 57) exhibited greater conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention symptoms compared to non-users (n = 52) but did not differ in emotional symptoms, cognitive functioning, or brain activity during the MID task. At 22years, those who used cannabis at both 19 and 22years-old n = 17), but not individuals that had been abstinent for ≥ 1month (n = 19), reported higher conduct problems than non-users (n = 17). Impairments in reward-related brain activity and cognitive functioning do not appear to precede or succeed cannabis use (i.e., weekly, or monthly use). Cannabis-naïve adolescents with conduct problems and more socially engaged with their peers may be at a greater risk for lighter yet persistent cannabis use in the future.

Prevalence and Effects of Plantar Fasciitis on Functional Activities among Doctors and Nurses in Sialkot, a Cross- Sectional Survey.

Background: Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating condition that affects a significant number of adults worldwide, characterized by heel pain and functional limitations. Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and doctors, are at a heightened risk due to their prolonged standing and weight-bearing activities. Despite this, there remains a paucity of research focusing on this demographic, especially within the context of developing countries like Pakistan. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and impact of plantar fasciitis on the functional activities of doctors and nurses in Sialkot, Pakistan, thereby contributing to the existing literature and providing insights for occupational health interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two major hospitals of Sialkot from October 2023 to January 2024. The study recruited 165 participants through non-probability convenient sampling. Inclusion criteria were professionals aged 25-50 with positive windlass tests and experiencing morning pain for over a month, while those with heel fractures, surgeries, infections, or foot deformities were excluded. The Foot Function Index questionnaire was employed to measure pain, disability, and activity limitation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing a one-sample t-test to compare group means. Results: The mean scores for pain, disability, and activity limitation were 53.48±12.24, 52.88±10.43, and 9.15±3.36, respectively. The one-sample t-test revealed significant differences from the test value of 50 for pain (t=3.663, p<0.001) and disability (t=3.548, p=0.001), with activity limitation significantly below the test value (t=-155.848, p<0.001). Conclusion: The study confirmed a high prevalence of plantar fasciitis among healthcare professionals, with notable implications for their daily functionality and occupational health. The condition was more prevalent among nurses compared to doctors, and significantly affected their ability to perform daily tasks, leading to increased disability and activity limitations.

Prevalence of Low Back Pain in Medical Students due to Prolonged Sitting

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition among medical students, attributed to their sedentary lifestyle and prolonged periods of sitting due to the demanding nature of medical education. This health concern not only affects their academic performance and quality of life but also has implications for their future professional practice in healthcare. Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence and severity of low back pain among medical students at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore, and to assess its impact on their daily functioning and academic activities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, involving 169 medical students aged 18-25 years from various programs (DPT, MBBS, BDS, Pharm-D). Participants were selected through stratified random sampling. The study utilized the Oswestry Disability Index and the Visual Analog Scale to measure the severity of LBP and its impact on daily activities. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 for descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Out of 169 participants, 56.8% reported experiencing LBP. Among those with LBP, 69.8% described their pain as mild, 27.1% as moderate, and 3.1% as severe. Regarding disability, 63.5% of the affected students reported minimal disability, 25% moderate disability, 7.3% severe disability, and 4% were crippled. The study highlighted a significant correlation between prolonged sitting and the incidence of LBP among medical students. Conclusion: The high prevalence of low back pain among medical students at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College indicates a need for targeted interventions. These include ergonomic adjustments, promotion of physical activity, and incorporation of musculoskeletal health education into medical curricula. Addressing these factors is essential for improving the health and academic performance of medical students and preparing them for healthier professional practices.

Filopodial protrusion driven by density-dependent Ena-TOCA-1 interactions.

Filopodia are narrow actin-rich protrusions with important roles in neuronal development where membrane-binding adaptor proteins, such as I-BAR- and F-BAR-domain-containing proteins, have emerged as upstream regulators that link membrane interactions to actin regulators such as formins and proteins of the Ena/VASP family. Both the adaptors and their binding partners are part of diverse and redundant protein networks that can functionally compensate for each other. To explore the significance of the F-BAR domain-containing neuronal membrane adaptor TOCA-1 (also known as FNBP1L) in filopodia we performed a quantitative analysis of TOCA-1 and filopodial dynamics in Xenopus retinal ganglion cells, where Ena/VASP proteins have a native role in filopodial extension. Increasing the density of TOCA-1 enhances Ena/VASP protein binding in vitro, and an accumulation of TOCA-1, as well as its coincidence with Ena, correlates with filopodial protrusion in vivo. Two-colour single-molecule localisation microscopy of TOCA-1 and Ena supports their nanoscale association. TOCA-1 clusters promote filopodial protrusion and this depends on a functional TOCA-1 SH3 domain and activation of Cdc42, which we perturbed using the small-molecule inhibitor CASIN. We propose that TOCA-1 clusters act independently of membrane curvature to recruit and promote Ena activity for filopodial protrusion.

Investigation into effects of tocilizumab and epoetin beta in rats with experimental sciatic nerve injury model

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of tocilizumab (TCZ), epoetin beta (EPO), and their combination on nerve regeneration in a sciatic nerve injury model. Materials and methodMale Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into (-) negative control, sham, TCZ, EPO ((+) positive control), and TCZ+EPO groups. The TCZ group received TCZ (8 mg/kg intraperitoneal) immediately after surgery. On day 14th, the EPO group received EPO (5000 IU/kg, intraperitoneal); the TCZ+EPO group received TCZ (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), EPO (5000 IU/kg, intraperitoneal), and TCZ (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) post-surgery. Motor and sensory functions were assessed pre and post-surgery. Lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress parameters were evaluated biochemically in the serum, and sciatic nerve tissue was evaluated histopathologically using haematoxylin-Eosin and Masson trichrome staining. ConclusionsTCZ and EPO decreased nerve injury effects by increasing motor and sensory conduction velocities of the sciatic nerve. Biochemically, TCZ and EPO significantly increased Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase, and Glutathione peroxidase 4 levels while decreasing Lipid Peroxidation levels (p=0.001). Histopathologically, neuronal degeneration following nerve injury was decreased in the groups receiving TCZ and EPO (p=0.001). EPO and TCZ attenuate the adverse effects of nerve injury. However, the TCZ+EPO treatment favoured biochemical activities over tissue and functional activities. This has been confirmed functionally, biochemically, and histopathologically.

Synthesis of biologically active Shiga toxins in cell-free systems

Shiga toxins (Stx) produced by pathogenic bacteria can cause mild to severe diseases in humans. Thus, the analysis of such toxins is of utmost importance. As an AB5 toxin, Stx consist of a catalytic A-subunit acting as a ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) and a B-pentamer binding domain. In this study we synthesized the subunits and holotoxins from Stx and Stx2a using different cell-free systems, namely an E. coli- and CHO-based cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) system. The functional activity of the protein toxins was analyzed in two ways. First, activity of the A-subunits was assessed using an in vitro protein inhibition assay. StxA produced in an E. coli cell-free system showed significant RIP activity at concentrations of 0.02 nM, whereas toxins synthesized in a CHO cell-free system revealed significant activity at concentrations of 0.2 nM. Cell-free synthesized StxA2a was compared to StxA2a expressed in E. coli cells. Cell-based StxA2a had to be added at concentrations of 20 to 200 nM to yield a significant RIP activity. Furthermore, holotoxin analysis on cultured HeLa cells using an O-propargyl-puromycin assay showed significant protein translation reduction at concentrations of 10 nM and 5 nM for cell-free synthesized toxins derived from E. coli and CHO systems, respectively. Overall, these results show that Stx can be synthesized using different cell-free systems while remaining functionally active. In addition, we were able to use CFPS to assess the activity of different Stx variants which can further be used for RIPs in general.

Unveiling gender differences in psychophysiological dynamics: support for a two-dimensional autonomic space approach.

To date, studies focusing on the connection between psychological functioning and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity usually adopted the one-dimensional model of autonomic balance, according to which activation of one branch of the ANS is accompanied by an inhibition of the other. However, the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches also activate independently; thus, co-activation and co-inhibition may occur, which is demonstrated by a two-dimensional model of ANS activity. Here, we apply such models to assess how markers of the autonomic space relate to several critical psychological constructs: emotional contagion (EC), general anxiety, and positive and negative affect (PA and NA). We also examined gender differences in those psychophysiological relations. In the present study, we analyzed data from 408 healthy students, who underwent a 5-min group baseline period as part of their participation in several experiments and completed self-reported questionnaires. Electrocardiogram (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), and respiration were recorded. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), pre-ejection period (PEP), as well as cardiac autonomic balance (CAB) and regulation (CAR) and cross-system autonomic balance (CSAB) and regulation (CSAR), were calculated. Notably, two-dimensional models were more suitable for predicting and describing most psychological constructs. Gender differences were found in psychological and physiological aspects as well as in psychophysiological relations. Women's EC scores were negatively correlated with sympathetic activity and positively linked to parasympathetic dominance. Men's PA and NA scores were positively associated with sympathetic activity. PA in men also had a positive link to an overall activation of the ANS, and a negative link to parasympathetic dominance. The current results expand our understanding of the psychological aspects of the autonomic space model and psychophysiological associations. Gender differences and strengths and weaknesses of alternative physiological models are discussed.

The Need to Adapt the Psychiatric Clinical Assessment to the Digital Age: A Practical Approach.

The use of electronic devices and social media is becoming a ubiquitous part of most people's lives. Although researchers are exploring the sequelae of such use, little attention has been given to the importance of digital media use in routine psychiatric assessments of patients. The nature of technology use is relevant to understanding a patient's lifestyle and activities, the same way that it is important to evaluate the patient's occupation, functioning, and general activities. The authors propose a framework for psychiatric inquiry into digital media use, emphasizing that such inquiry should focus on quality of use, including emotional and behavioral consequences, rather than simply the amount of use.

Mikania micrantha silver nanoparticles exhibit anticancer activities against human lung adenocarcinoma via caspase-mediated apoptotic cell death

Green-mediated synthesis of nanoparticles has earned a promising role in the area of nanotechnology due to their biomedical applications. This study describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Mikania micrantha leaf extract and its functional activities against cancer. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrum that exhibited an absorption band at 459 nm. The bioactive compounds of M. micrantha leaf extract that functioned as reducing and capping agents were confirmed by a shift in the absorption bands in Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FT-IR). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) studies validated the spherical shape and size of AgNPs, respectively. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed the presence of elemental silver. The crystalline nature of AgNPs was confirmed by the X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD). AgNPs effectively induced cytotoxicity and prevented A549 cell colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of A549 cells with AgNPs also increased DNA damage, which was coupled with elevated lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Following AgNPs treatment, the mRNA expression levels of the pro-apoptotic genes as well as the activities of caspases were significantly elevated in A549 cells while the expression levels of anti-apoptotic genes were downregulated. Our study demonstrates the potential of the synthesised AgNPs for cancer therapy possibly targeting the apoptotic pathway.

Relative handgrip strength as a vitality measure in US stroke survivors

Purpose Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability in the US, yet a feasible assessment measure with predictive value for components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Core Set for Stroke is lacking. The purpose of the present study was to explore the predictive value of potential assessment measures on factors within each ICF component in stroke survivors. Materials and Methods Demographic, anthropometric, blood-based biomarker, physical functioning, and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire data were collected on stroke survivors in the 2011–2018 NHANES cycles. Potential predictors (handgrip strength relative to weight, age, sex, race, education level, marital status, poverty ratio, stroke chronicity) of physical function, activities of daily living (ADLs), participation in social activities, metabolic syndrome, and meeting physical activity recommendations were evaluated using weighted linear and ordinal logistic regression. Results Relative handgrip strength was a significant predictor of physical function, difficulty participating in ADLs and social activities, and odds of meeting physical activity recommendations. As relative handgrip strength increased, these factors improved among stroke survivors. Conclusions To decrease disability rates and optimize function among stroke survivors, the use of assessment measures like relative handgrip strength that may predict multiple ICF components is warranted.

Physical function trajectory after wrist or lower arm fracture in postmenopausal women: results from the Women's Health Initiative Study.

Physical functioning trajectory following lower arm or wrist fracture is not well understood. This study is to evaluate physical functioning trajectory before vs. after lower arm or wrist fracture, stratified by age. We performed a nested case-control study of prospective data from the Women's Health Initiative Study (n = 2097 cases with lower arm or wrist fracture, 20,970 controls). Self-reported fractures and the physical functioning subscale of the RAND 36-item Short-Form Health Survey were assessed annually. We examined three physical functioning trajectory groups: stable, improving, and declining. Mean (SD) number of physical functioning measurements was 5.2 (1.5) for cases and 5.0 (1.4) for controls. Declining physical functioning was observed among 20.4% of cases and 16.0% of controls. Compared to women without lower arm or wrist fracture, women with lower arm or wrist fracture were 33% more likely to experience declining physical functioning (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.33 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19-1.49, reference group stable or improving physical functioning trajectory). Associations varied by age: age ≥ 80years aOR 1.56 (95% CI 1.29-1.88); age 70-79years aOR 1.29 (95% CI 1.09-1.52); age < 70years aOR 1.15 (95% CI 0.86-1.53) (pinteraction = 0.06). Associations between lower arm or wrist fracture and odds of declining physical functioning did not vary by baseline physical functioning or physical activity level. Women with lower arm or wrist fracture, particularly those aged 80 and older, were more likely to experience declines in physical functioning than women without such fractures, independent of baseline physical functioning level.

Anti-pollutant effect of oleic acid against urban particulate matter is mediated via regulation of AhR- and TRPV1-mediated signaling in vitro.

Urban Particulate Matter (UPM) induces skin aging and inflammatory responses by regulating skin cells through the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). Although oleic acid, an unsaturated free fatty acid (FFA), has some functional activities, its effect on UPM-induced skin damage has not been elucidated. Here, we investigated signaling pathways on how oleic acid is involved in attenuating UPM induced cell damage. UPM treatment increased XRE-promoter luciferase activity and increased translocation of AhR to the nucleus, resulting in the upregulation of CYP1A1 gene. However, oleic acid treatment attenuated the UPM effects on AhR signaling. Furthermore, while UPM induced activation of TRPV1 and MAPKs signaling which activated the downstream molecules NFκB and AP-1, these effects were reduced by cotreatment with oleic acid. UPM-dependent generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduction of cellular proliferation were also attenuated by the treatment of oleic acid. These data reveal that cell damage induced by UPM treatment occurs through AhR signaling and TRPV1 activation which in turn activates ERK and JNK, ultimately inducing NFκB and AP-1 activation. These effects were reduced by the cotreatment of oleic acid on HaCaT cells. These suggest that oleic acid reduces UPM-induced cell damage through inhibiting both the AhR signaling and activation of TRPV1 and its downstream molecules, leading to a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine and recovery of cell proliferation.

The Effects of Negative Regulation on the Dynamical Transition in Epileptic Network

The transiting mechanism of abnormal brain functional activities, such as the epileptic seizures, has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we employ a probabilistic neural network model to investigate the impact of negative regulation, including negative connections and negative inputs, on the dynamical transition behavior of network dynamics. It is observed that negative connections significantly influence the transition behavior of the network, intensifying the oscillation of discharge probability, corresponding to uneven discharge and epileptic states. Negative inputs, within a certain range, exhibited a similar impact on the dynamic state of the network as negative connections, enhancing network oscillations and resulting in higher fragility. However, larger negative inputs can led to the disappearance of oscillations in the discharge probability, indicating a maintenance of lower fragility. We speculate that negative regulation may be an indispensable factor in the occurrence of epileptic seizures, and future research should give it due consideration.