bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic evaluation based on dual time 18F-FDG PET/CT radiomics features in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated by Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
Authors: Wang Fei , Cheng Chao , Wu Zhongyi , Wang Tao , Zuo Changjing , Yan Zhuangzhi , Liu Zhaobang
Published: December 2022

Background: 18F-FDG PET/CT is widely used in the prognosis evaluation of tumor patients. The radiomics features can provide additional information for clinical prognostic assessment.
Purpose: To explore the prognostic value of radiomics features from dual time 18F-FDG PET/CT images for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) patients treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 70 LAPC patients who received early and delayed 18F-FDG PET/CT scans before SBRT treatment. A total of 1188 quantitative imaging features were extracted from dual time PET/CT images. To avoid over-fitting, the univariate analysis and elastic net were used to obtain a sparse set of image features, that were applied to develop a radiomics score (Rad-score). Then the Harrell consistency index (C-index) was used to evaluate the prognosis model.
Results: The Rad-score from dual time images contains six features, including intensity histogram, morphological, and texture features. In the validation cohort, the univariate analysis showed that the Rad-score was the independent prognostic factor (p<0.001, hazard ratio [HR]: 3.2). And in the multivariate analysis, the Rad-score was the only prognostic factor (p < 0.01, HR: 4.1) that was significantly associated with the OS of patients. In addition, according to cross-validation, the C-index of the prognosis model based on the Rad-score from dual-time images is better than the early and delay images (0.720 vs 0.683 vs 0.583).
Conclusion: The Rad-score based on dual-time 18F-FDG PET/CT images is a promising non-invasive method with better prognostic value.
Imperialist Competitive Algorithm for Subcontractor Selection in Multiple Project Environments
Authors: Afshar Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2022

In the current study, Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA) is presented to solve subcontractor selection problem (SSP) in multiple project environments with minimization of general contractor's cost as the objective subject to resource and precedence constraints under two different circumstances. In the first circumstance, the project deadline can be postponed by paying a penalty. While, in the second one, the deadline cannot be postponed. The Random Key (RK) and the subcontractor list representation schemes are employed as encoding procedures and the serial schedule generation scheme (SSGS) is utilized as decoding scheme. Comparing the results of the presented ICA with an exact method and also a Genetic algorithm (GA) utilizing a real case study validates the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm to solve SSP in multiple project environments. The outcomes demonstrate that the proposed ICA is more efficient in the presence of a strict deadline.
Uncertainty on Estimated Magnitudes: A New Approach based on a Point Poisson Process of Dimension 2
Authors: DUTFOY Anne
Published: December 2022

The magnitudes recorded in seismic catalogues are subject to uncertainties that can have a significant impact when estimating the parameters of seismic recurrence models. In this paper, we propose an innovative approach based on a Poisson point process of dimension 2 that models both the magnitude hazard and the associated uncertainty. We define estimators of the parameters of the Gutenberg Richter (a, b) model that maximize the likelihood of the data with respect to the model. We apply the approach to the Alps region in France and compares it to other approaches proposed in the literature.
Transboundary cooperation in infrastructure operation generates economic and environmental co-benefits to the Lancang-Mekong River Basin
Authors: Yu Yang , Bo Yan , Castelletti Andrea , Dumas Patrice , Gao Jinyu , Cai Ximing , Liu Junguo , Kahil Taher , Wada Yoshihide , Liu Bo , Zhou Feng , Zhao Jianshi
Published: December 2022

The Lancang-Mekong River basin (LMRB) is facing blooming water resources infrastructure development, long-term transboundary conflicts and trade-offs between economic goals and ecosystem services provision. Yet, most studies optimizing the pathway towards sustainable infrastructure operation have lacked multi-sectoral and cross-country perspectives. Here, we quantify how and to what extent transboundary cooperation generate economic and environmental co-benefits by jointly using a coupled simulation-optimization approach and cooperative game theoretical analysis. We find that full cooperation outweighs non- or partial cooperation modes to promote economic benefits by 5 to 27%, and to minimize the losses in fishery and sediment transport from 14% and 33% to 8% and 10%, respectively. Full cooperation becomes more beneficial and stable alongside infrastructure expansion, climate change, and the degree of satisfying hydrological needs for river ecosystems. These findings underscore the importance of full cooperation for sustaining socio-environmental systems and highlight the needs of benefit reallocation mechanism and designed flow management for stabilizing basin-level full cooperation in the LMRB.
Grow Newtonian rigid inertia into parameter repetitiveness memory equivalent bio-inertia over the “super-simultaneousness” of quantum mechanics for growth turnover selection inheritance
Authors: Lai Yi Yu
Published: December 2022

Inversion energy is defined as parameter-against-gravity-internal-fluctuation, the non-simultaneousness in correlated internal fluctuations is quantizing time. Modified Newtonian Three Laws are, first: \(\frac{d}{dx}\)cosx =\(-sinx,\) \(\frac{d}{dx}\)sinx =\(cosx\); second: \(\overrightarrow{F}=m\bullet \overrightarrow{a}\) + \(\left|m\overrightarrow{g}\int tg\theta \cdot d\theta ⟩\right.\upharpoonleft \downharpoonright\); third: Wavelength = \(\frac{2}{n}\)L, frequency = n\({f}_{0}\). Bio-systems are topological spaces that can process input objects into inversion energy for entropy-control by repetitiveness memory, the capability of equivalent procured inversion energy with memorized trigonometric repetitiveness by quantizing time is bio-inertia. Evolution grows the trigonometric folding equivalent capacity of a topological space. Schrödinger equation has only quantized energy but hasn’t quantized time thus inducing quantum collapse. We then define in vivo conditions to grow over the “super-simultaneousness” of conventional quantum to reverse collapse for lifespan. Originating from bio quantum scale differences between Planck regions and surface tension regions, bio quantum duality grows in vivo cross folded-surface tension region flow. Life relies on trigonometric negentropy procured from elastic entropy generation ground states and physically inherit by bio quantum growth turnover selection.
The Italian registry for patients with Prader-Willi syndrome
Authors: Salvatore Marco , Torreri Paola , Rocchetti Adele , Maghnie Mohamad , Patti Giuseppa , Crinò Antonino , Elia Maurizio , Greco Donatella , Romano Corrado , Grugni Graziano , Taruscio Domenica
Published: December 2022

Background
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare and complex genetic disease, with numerous implications on metabolic, endocrine, neuropsychomotor systems, and with behavioural and intellectual disorders. Rare disease patient registries are important scientific tools i) to collect clinical and epidemiologic data, ii) to assess the clinical management including the diagnostic delay, iii) to improve patients’ care and iv) to foster research to identify new therapeutic solutions. The European Union has recommended the implementation and use of registries and databases. The main aims of this paper are to describe the process of setting up the Italian PWS register, and to illustrate our preliminary results.
Materials and methods
The Italian PWS registry was established in 2019 with the aims i) to describe the natural history of the disease, ii) to determine clinical effectiveness of health care services, iii) to measure and monitor quality of care of patients. Information from six different variables are included and collected into this registry: demographics, diagnosis and genetics, patient status, therapy, quality of life and mortality.
Results
A total of 165 patients (50,3% female vs 49,7% male) were included into Italian PWS registry in 2019–2020 period. Average age at genetic diagnosis was 4,6 years. Sixty-one percent of subjects had interstitial deletion of the proximal long arm of paternal chromosome 15, while 36.4% had uniparental maternal disomy for chromosome 15. Three patients presented an imprinting centre defect and one had a de novo translocation involving chromosome 15. A positive methylation test was demonstrated in the remaining 11 individuals but the underlying genetic defect was not identified. Compulsive food-seeking and hyperphagia was present in 63.6% of patients (prevalently in adults); 54.5% of patients developed morbid obesity. Altered glucose metabolism was present in 33,3% of patients. Central hypothyroidism was reported in 20% of patients; 94,7% of children and adolescents and 13,3% of adult patients is undergoing GH treatment.
Conclusions
The analyses of these six variables allowed to highlight important clinical aspects and natural history of PWS useful to inform future actions to be taken by national health care services and health professionals.
Dissection of a Cell Atlas of Developing Somatic Embryos in Cotton by Single-cell RNA-sequencing and Spatial Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses
Authors: Ge Xiao-Yang , Yu Xiaole , Liu Zhixin , Yuan Jiachen , Qin Aizhi , Wang Ye , Chen Yanli , Qin Wenqiang , Liu Yumeng , Liu Xingxing , Zhou Yaping , Wang Peng , Yang Jincheng , Liu Hao , Zhao Zihao , Hu Mengke , Zhang Yixin , Sun Susu , Herrera-Estrella Luis , Tran Lam-Son Phan , Sun Xuwu , Li Fuguang
Published: December 2022

Somatic embryogenesis is a major pathway for the regeneration of cotton in tissue culture, and a major technique used for cotton breeding and improvement. The signaling pathway regulating the process of somatic embryogenesis in cotton are extremely complex and still poorly characterized. Little is known about the mechanisms regulating the changes that occur in gene expression and metabolites during somatic embryogenesis at a single-cell resolution. Here, we investigated the spatial and single-cell expression profiles of key genes and metabolic patterns of key metabolites by integrated single-cell RNA-sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and spatial metabolomics. To evaluate the results of the above analyses, we characterized the potential roles of two representative marker genes AATP1 and DOX2 in the regulation of somatic embryo development. A publicly accessible web-based resource database (http://cottonsomaticembryo.cricaas.com.cn) was generated to facilitate future studies designed to analyze the expression patterns of marker genes at specific developmental stages.
Needs and contents of a customized digital tool for retention in care among breast- feeding and pregnant women living with HIV in Kilimanjaro
Authors: Maro Rehema , Ngowi Kennedy , Martin Haikael , Dillip Angel , Masika Lydia , Mtenga Alan , Mtesha Benson , Boer Marion Sumari-de
Published: December 2022

Background: Retention in care and adherence to medication among pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV (PBWLH) are crucial for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Due to the comprehensive coverage of mobile phones, digital tools, including the use of internet-enabled medication dispensers and short message service (SMS), have been described as potential interventions to improve adherence. Therefore, the study’s main objective was to understand the needs and contents of a customized digital tool for retention in care and medication adherence among PBWLH.
Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022 at five health facilities in Kilimanjaro region. Pregnant and breastfeeding receiving PMTCT services were included in a survey using a semi-structured questionnaire. Among the interviewed, twenty breastfeeding participants were purposively selected, trained, and enrolled to use an internet-enabled medication dispenser for one month. They received different types of SMS reminders for four weeks and feedback on their adherence patterns from a nurse counsellor after one month using an adherence graph from Wisepill. Later, exit interview and an in-depth interview (IDI) were conducted to explore needs and content. We did descriptive analyses for quantitative data and thematic content analyses for qualitative data.
Results: Among 142 women interviewed, 42(29.5%) were pregnant, and 100 (70.5%) were breastfeeding. A majority of 136(95%) had access to mobile phones and used SMS daily. Ninety-six percent were interested in receiving reminder messages. Nearly 86(61%) preferred to be reminded daily before medication intake time. Showing adherence graphs during tailored feedback sessions was highly appreciated. Qualitative findings revealed more insights into the content of reminders and educational SMS. Most people prefer neutral SMS which does not contain the word “medication”. Health educational SMS contents preferred breastfeeding, opportunistic diseases, nutrition, and entrepreneurship education. Overall, SMSs were regarded as helpful in reminding clients of medication time and medication dispenser provided them with privacy and safe storage for their medication.
Conclusion: This study helps to construct useful content for future digital adherence tools to support the health of pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV. Digital tools seem to be highly needed.
Routine surveillance of upper urinary tract imaging for diagnosing upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer having a tumor size ≥30 mm and carcinoma in situ.
Authors: Nishimura Nobutaka , Miyake Makito , Miyamoto Tatsuki , Shimizu Takuto , Fujii Tomomi , Morizawa Yosuke , Hori Shunta , Gotoh Daisuke , Nakai Yasushi , Torimoto Kazumasa , Tanaka Nobumichi , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: December 2022

Background
Although routine surveillance imaging to examine upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence during follow-up of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer is recommended, its necessity remains invalidated. We performed a single-institute long-term follow-up cohort study to identify risk factors for upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence after non-muscle invasive bladder cancer treatment, as well as the clinical impact of routine surveillance imaging.
Methods and materials
A retrospective chart review of 864 patients with primary non-muscle invasive bladder cancer who underwent initial transurethral resection of bladder tumor between 1980 and 2020 was conducted. Oncological outcomes included upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence-free survival and overall survival. Moreover, we examined the opportunities to diagnose its recurrence.
Results
Of 864 patients, 19 (2.2%) experienced upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence. On multivariate Fine-Gray proportional regression analyses, a tumor size ≥ 30 mm and carcinoma in situ were independently associated with short upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence-free survival. Recurrence was associated with shorter overall survival. Among the aforementioned 19 patients, recurrence was detected through routine imaging in 12 (63.2%), cystoscopy in two (10.5%), urine cytology in two (10.5%), presence of gross hematuria in one (5.3%), and unknown methods in two (10.5%).
Conclusion
Most patients experiencing upper urinary tract urothelial cancer recurrence were diagnosed by routine surveillance imaging, suggesting its clinical importance, especially for patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer accompanied by a tumor size ≥ 30 mm and carcinoma in situ.
Polymeric curcumin nanospheres for lysozyme aggregation inhibition, antibacterial and wound healing applications
Authors: Rananaware Pranita , Bauri Samir , Keri Rangappa , Mishra Monalisa , Brahmkhatri Varsha
Published: December 2022

Curcumin is a renowned drug for its numerous applications as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-allergic, and anti-hyperglycemic agent. However, its clinical applications are limited because of its low physicochemical stability, solubility, cellular uptake, and rapid systemic clearance. Various nanoformulations have been proposed and characterized to upsurge curcumin's solubility and bioavailability. Nanomaterials have much potential to modulate the aggregation kinetics of several proteins, which may lead to the treatment option for several neurological disorders and act as a multi-therapeutic agent. The present study reports highly stable polymeric nanoparticles consisting of curcumin and polyvinylpyrrolidone, C-PVP, and further conjugated with gold nanoparticles, C-PVP-Au, were synthesized. The synthesized conjugates C-PVP and C-PVP-Au were investigated for amyloid aggregation inhibition activity, antimicrobial activity, and wound healing applications. The anti-amyloidogenic capacity of nanoconjugates for model protein, hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL), was examined at pH and temperature-induced aggregation. The ThT binding assay, fibril size measurement, and electron microscopy results revealed that conjugates suppress fibrillogenesis in HEWL. The highest amyloid inhibition activity obtained against C-PVP and C-PVP-Au was 31 µg.mL-1 and 30 µg.mL-1, respectively. The dissociation activity for amyloid aggregation was observed against Q-PVP and Q-PVP-Au at 29 µg.mL-1 and 27 µg.mL-1, respectively. The antibacterial studies show significant antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli (E.coli) in the presence of C-PVP and C-PVP-Au. The substantial antibacterial potential of C-PVP@PVA and C-PVP-Au@PVA membranes shows promising wound healing applications. Membranes containing curcumin polymeric nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) promote the antibacterial activity and wound healing activity to the wound of Drosophila. C-PVP-Au@PVA membrane healed the wound faster than the C-PVP@PVA, and it can be used for better results in wound healing. Thus, C-PVP-Au NP and C-PVP NP have higher bioavailability and stability and can act as multifunctional therapeutic agents for amyloid-related diseases and wound management systems.
Tyrosine-targeted covalent inhibition of a tRNA synthetase aided by zinc ion
Authors: Fang Pengfei , Qiao Hang , Xia Mingyu , Cheng Yiyuan , Zhou Jintong , Zheng Li , Li Wei , Wang Jing
Published: December 2022

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (AARSs), a family of essential protein synthesis enzymes, are attractive targets for drug development. Although several different types of AARS inhibitors have been discovered, AARS covalent inhibitors have not been reported. Here we present five unusual crystal structures showing that threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) is covalently inhibited by a natural product, obafluorin (OB). The residue forming a covalent bond with OB is a tyrosine in ThrRS active center, which is not commonly modified by covalent inhibitors. The two hydroxyl groups on the o-diphenol moiety of OB form two coordination bonds with the conserved zinc ion in the active center of ThrRS. Therefore, the beta-lactone structure of OB can undergo ester exchange reaction with the phenolic group of the adjacent tyrosine to form a covalent bond between the compound and the enzyme, and allow its nitrobenzene structure to occupy the binding site of tRNA. In addition, when this tyrosine was replaced by a lysine or even a weakly nucleophilic arginine, similar bonds could also be formed. This work not only reports the mechanism of the first covalent inhibitor of an AARS, but also highlights a powerful warhead of covalent inhibitor that can target multiple different amino acid side chains.
An ARIMA model to quantify the impact of COVID-19 nonpharmaceutical interventions on the epidemiology of varicella in China, 2005–2020
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Hu Yuehua , Li Xudong , Yin Dapeng , You Meiying , Wang Tianqi
Published: December 2022

Background: Varicella is a common respiratory infectious disease. Since 2020, non-pharmaceutical interventions targeting SARS-CoV-2 greatly affected the activity of other respiratory-transmitted diseases. The aim of our study was to quantify changes of varicella activity in China associated with implementation of COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and raise awareness of the possibility of an “immunity debt” that may increase risk of varicella outbreaks and activity.
Methods: We developed and fit an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model with historical data on monthly varicella outbreak cases in China that were reported between January 2005 and December 2018. The selected, optimal model was used to predict outbreak cases of varicella from January 2019 to June 2020. We evaluated the reliability of the model by comparing the actual and predicted values for 2019. We then used the model to compare the actual and predicted values for first half of 2020 to quantify the impact of the COVID-19-NPIs on varicella.
Results: Four models passed parameter tests (all p<0.05) and the residual tests (all p>0.05): ARIMA（2，1，2)(1，1，0)12, ARIMA（2，1，2)(1，1，1)12, ARIMA（2，1，2)(2，1，0)12, and ARIMA（2，1，2)(0，1，2)12. The model, ARIMA (2,1,2) (1,1,0)12 was determined to be the optimal model, with a high goodness of fit R2 (0.488) and a small, standardized BIC (14.174). We showed that the optimal model fit well because actual outbreak cases in 2019 were within 95% confidence intervals of the model-predicted outbreak cases for 2019. During 2020 however, actual outbreak cases were fewer than the number of cases predicted at the lower limits of the model’s 95% confidence intervals, and actual 2019 cases were 93.37% lower than the number of cases predicted for the first half of 2020 had there been no COVID-19 NPIs.
Conclusions: It is feasible to quantify the impact of COVID-19-targeted NPIs on varicella outbreak cases using a time series model. Our optimal ARIMA model showed that varicella activity was significantly decreased by COVID-19 NPIs. The marked absence of varicella during the first half of 2020 likely led to an immunity debt, thus increasing the likelihood of future varicella outbreaks, off-season varicella activity, and pressure on medical services when COVID-19 NPIs are relaxed.
Cubic nanoparticles as potential carriers for a natural anticancer drug: development, in vitro and in vivo characterization
Authors: Abdou Randa , Mojally Mariam , Dawoud Mohamed
Published: December 2022

Natural compounds that elicit anticancer properties are of great interest for cancer therapy. However, the low solubility and bioavailability of these compounds limit their use as efficient anticancer drugs. To avoid these drawbacks, incorporation of these compounds into cubic nanoparticles (cubosomes) was carried out. Cubosomes containing bergapten which is a natural anticancer compound isolated from Ficus carica were prepared by the homogenization technique using monoolein and poloxamer. These cubosomes were characterized for size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, small angle X-ray diffraction, In-vitro release, In-vitro cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and antitumor activity. Particle size of cubosomes was 220 ± 3.6 nm with almost neutral zeta potential -5 ± 1.2 mV and X-ray measurements confirmed the existence of the cubic structure. Additionally, more than 90% of the natural anticancer drug was entrapped within the cubosomes. A sustained release over 30 hours was obtained for these cubosomes. Finally, these cubosomes illustrated higher In-vitro cytotoxicity and In-vivo tumor inhibition compared with the free natural anticancer compound. Thus, cubosomes could be promising carriers for enhancement of antitumor efficiency of this natural compound
Formulation of Calendula officinalis, Glycine max, and Aloe vera extract topical gel ointment attenuates rheumatoid arthritis in rats via inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Gutierrez Rosa Martha Pérez , Pérez Julio Tellez
Published: December 2022

Background: Several pharmacological effects have been reported on Calendula officinalis (C), Aloe vera (A) and Glycine max (G) scientific validation of its rheumatoid arthritis property of the combination of these plants in topical gel ointment has not been done so far. Due to its promising therapeutic effects, to improve its efficacy, we designed combined these plants in gel ointment (CAG/gel). This study aimed to investigate special participation of a new topical herbal formulation containing CAG in gel ointment in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory models.
Methods: HPLC analysis were performed to investigate the chemical composition of herbal formulation. The efficacy of CAG/gel as potential treatment was supported in CFA-induced-arthritis rats in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 studies and proliferation of B and T lymphocytes.
Result: In the phytochemical profile, seventeen flavonoids were identified. Results indicated that topical administration of CAG/gel to CFA-induced-arthritis rats showed a significant reduction of paw swelling like those of the diclofenac used as reference. Arthritic joints produce the remission of disease and recovery of the joint structure and regulates the levels of proinflammatory mediators. CAG/gel modulates adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis by regulating inflammatory cytokines. CAG/gel treatment showed that the polyphenolic-rich extract no cytotoxic effect in RAW 264.7 cells and also exhibited significantly inhibition production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin (IL)-6, nitric oxide (NO),and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in LPS-induced inflammation in macrophages RAW 264.7. In addition, CAG/gel significantly decreased the abnormal proliferation of B and T lymphocytes.
Conclusion: Findings demonstrated that treatment with CAG/gel provides satisfactory rheumatoid arthritis property to those in the standard diclofenac. The improved rheumatoid arthritis, especially in the 10% CAG/gel groups, can be attributed to phytochemical content which reveals the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant as the major active components. The mechanism of anti-rheumatoid arthritis associated to decrease of inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammatory cytokines to its immune function. The CAG/gel exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity with a synergistic effect between the flavonoids contained in the three plants. Thus, CAG/gel ointment is a reasonable alternative to the topical formulation for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis conditions.
Evidence of manganese incorporation and distribution at the nanoscale in coccolithophore calcite
Authors: Bottini Cinzia , Dapiaggi Monica , Rotiroti Nicola , Gambacorta Gabriele , Bettoni Chiara , Tucoulou Remi
Published: December 2022

The coccolithophore algae (Calcihaptophycidae) produce an extracellular covering of calcium carbonate plates (coccoliths) and are responsible for up to 10% of global carbon fixation through photosynthesis and biomineralization. Therefore, any alteration in cell functioning and calcification may strongly affect the ocean-atmosphere system. In this regard, the identification of any variation of the element pathways to the cell and their incorporation in the coccolith is important to understand the response of these organisms to changes in (past) environmental conditions and to identify (paleo)ecological proxies. Here, we focus on manganese which is an essential element for coccolithophore functioning: understanding whether manganese is also incorporated in coccolith calcite and if its distribution is species-specific is of seminal importance. In order to obtain ultra-high resolution (50 x 50 nm) spatial elemental distribution maps of Early to mid-Cretaceous (ca. 122 to 110 Ma) coccoliths we used synchrotron-based XRF analyses at the nano scale. The studied nannofossils belong to different taxa preferring low to higher surface-water fertility and were extracted from samples of different ages (from early Aptian to early Albian) collected in distant oceanic settings including the western Tethys, the Pacific and proto-North Atlantic Ocean.
The analyses showed a high correlation in the spatial distribution of calcium and manganese in the coccoliths, suggesting that manganese is present in the coccolith calcite, and it was likely incorporated during coccolith formation. Moreover, the studied species show different Mn/Ca ratios suggesting that there is a species-specific control on the manganese uptake.
Secondary calcite was also identified but it displays higher Mn/Ca ratios compared to biogenic calcite. Only the specimens collected from a black shale displayed secondary calcite crusts probably formed at the sediment-water interface after coccolith precipitation to the seafloor. Suboxic/anoxic conditions promoted manganese remobilization from Mn-oxides and Mn-oxyhydroxides which was incorporated in the secondary calcite. The Mn/Ca ratio in coccolith calcite crusts may therefore be indicator of (past) oxygen variations in bottom waters.
hmc, a cell with previously unknown function couples neuropeptide transmitters with muscle contraction during a rhythmic behavior in C. elegans
Authors: Choi Ukjin , Hu Mingxi , Sieburth Derek
Published: December 2022

Neuropeptides in the brain have both excitatory and inhibitory effects on neuronal activity through paracrine signaling to local circuits. Here, we show that neuropeptides can activate and inhibit calcium responses in a single target cell of previously unknown function, hmc, in C. elegans. We show that hmc controls a discrete muscle contraction during a rhythmic behavior. Live imaging shows that hmc is activated by the neuropeptide like protein FLP-22 in phase with the pacemaker every 50 seconds. FLP-22 is released from a bifunctional motor neuron AVL and activates the frpr-17 G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), which leads to the activation of a G alpha s-protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway in hmc. PKA signaling is not required for hmc activation but instead potentiates hmc activation. hmc activity is inhibited by signaling from the neuropeptide FLP-9, which functions through the GPCR frpr-21 in hmc. Behavioral, calcium imaging, and genetic studies suggest that hmc itself is not contractile but is functionally coupled to muscles through gap junctions composed of UNC-9/innexin. These results indicate that neuropeptides can function as volume neurotransmitters to control the activity state of a target cell and reveal a function for hmc that may be similar to that of endothelial cells.
Rubric vs. numeric rating scale: agreement among evaluators on endodontic treatments performed by dental students
Authors: Escribano Nuria , Belliard Virginia , Baracco Bruno , Silva Dayana Da , Ceballos Laura , Fuentes M. Victoria
Published: December 2022

Background
Students´ assessment should be carried out in an effective and objective manner, which reduces the possibility of different evaluators giving different scores, thus influencing the qualification obtained and the consistency of education. In the present study, we aimed to determine the agreement among four evaluators and compare the overall scores awarded when assessing portfolios of endodontic preclinical treatments performed by dental students by using an analytic rubric and a numeric rating scale.
Methods
A random sample of 42 portfolios performed by fourth-year dental students at preclinical endodontic practices were blindly assessed by four evaluators using two different evaluation methods: an analytic rubric specifically designed and a numeric rating scale. Six categories were analyzed: radiographic assessment, access preparation, shaping procedure, obturation, content of the portfolio, and presentation of the portfolio. The maximum global score was 10 points. The overall scores obtained with both methods from each evaluator were compared by Student's t. The influence of the difficulty of the endodontic treatment on the evaluators´ scores was analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Statistical tests were performed at a pre-set alpha of 0.05 using Stata 16.
Results
Difficulty of canal treatment did not influence the scores of evaluators, irrespective of the evaluation method used. When the analytic rubric was used, inter-evaluator agreement was substantial for radiographic assessment, access preparation, shaping procedure, obturation, and overall scores. Inter-evaluator agreement ranged from moderate to fair with the numeric rating scale, achieving higher overall scores. Presentation and content of the portfolio showed slight and fair agreement, respectively, among evaluators, regardless the evaluation method applied.
Conclusions
Assessment guided by an analytic rubric allowed evaluators to reach higher levels of agreement than those obtained when using a numeric rating scale. However, the rubric negatively affected overall scores.
An FSV Analysis Approach to verify the Robustness of The Triple-Correlation Analysis Theoretical Framework for Developing a Gas Warning System
Authors: Wu Robert. M.X , Zhang Zhongwu , Wang Yongwen , Shafiabady Niusha , Yan Wanjun , Gou Jinwen , Ma Yanyun , Gide Ergun , He Kaimin , Fan Jianfeng , Zhao Haijun , Shi Fangfang , Wang Ya , Zhang Huan
Published: December 2022

This research aims to use a proposed verification analysis approach -First-round – Second-round – Verification round (FSV) analysis approach to verify the robustness of the Trip-Correlation Analysis Theoretical Framework for developing a gas warning system. A mixed qualitative and quantitative research methodology is adopted, including a case study and correlational research. Our previous work found strong correlations between gas, temperature, and wind in the gas morning system. This research verifies the robustness of the Triple-Correlation Analysis Theoretical Framework, which integrating data on temperature and wind into the gas can improve warning systems’ sensitivity and reduce the incidence of explosions. The outcomes imply that Trip-Correlation Analysis Theoretical Framework is potentially valuable for developing other warning systems. The proposed FSV approach could be adopted for exploring data patterns insightfully to offer new perspectives to develop warning systems for different industry applications.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the NAC Gene Family and Functional Verification of the DcNAC043 in Dendrobium catenatum
Authors: Liu Miao , Tian Tian , Li Yong-quan , Tang Liu , Tian Yu-hang , Zhang Yu-jin , Shangguan Li-yang , Hang Ye , Zhang Ming-sheng , Huang Ming-jin
Published: December 2022

Background
The NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2 and CUC2) domain protein plays an important role in plant growth and development. The function of members of NAC gene family has been deeply studied in many plants. However, the evolutionary relationships and characteristics of NAC family genes in Dendrobium catenatum (D.candidum) unclear.
Results
In this study, we identified 33 NAC genes in D.catenatum, all contain NAM conservative domain. Subcellular localization predictions indicated that all the DcNAC proteins are localized to the nucleus. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the DcNAC gene family could be divided into four groups. Then, the amino-acid composition, physicochemical properties, gene structure, motif, and promoter cis-acting elements were analyzed, the evolutionarily conservative gene DcNAC043 was found. Using qRT-PCR, DcNAC043 was proved to respond to drought stress induction in D.catenatum. At the same time, phloroglucinol staining proved that the expression of DcNAC043 in the plant was up-regulated, which could increase the lignin content in the plant.
Conclusions
We identified 33 NAC genes in D.catenatum, which supplemented the relevant information of NAC gene family in D.catenatum. At the same time, the gene function of DcNAC043 and its contribution to the response of Dendrobium to drought stress were verified. These results provide a comprehensive evolutionary history of NAC genes in D.catenatum, and insight into the biological functions of DcNAC043 genes in response to drought stress.
Experiential COVID-19 factors predicting resilience among Spanish adults
Authors: ALVAREZ MAR ALCOLEA , PINTO NATALIA SOLANO
Published: December 2022

The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has meant for citizens a constant adaptation to health measures in order to try to stop transmission of the virus. During this adaptation process, different psychosocial aspects have caused consequences for people’s mental health to a greater or lesser extent. The objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between resilience and experiential COVID-19 factors. Sample was comprised of Spanish adults (n = 1000; age 18–79 [mean = 40.43],793 female, 201 male, and 2 non binary sex). These people participating in an online sub-study focused on the impact of COVID-19 experiences. The research has been cross-sectional, descriptive and correlational design. The instrument created for this research was a specific online questionnaire, including the “Scale of satisfaction with life” (SWLS, Diener et al., 1985, Spanish version, Atienza, et al., 2000) and “Scale of resilience” (RS, Wagnild & Young, 1993, Spanish version, Sánchez-Teruel, et al., 2015). The results obtained show how people who have been able to face the pandemic in a responsive and adaptive way have high resilience. Specifically, those participants that accepting the use of masks, vaccinations and confinement obtained high resilience. Using public funding and allocating research to the development of programs to promote resilience, adaptative beliefs and prosocial behaviors becomes basic to live in a world in constant change.
Development of Information System Documentations Postpartum Obstetrics and Infant Physiology Midwife Integrated with Credit Numbers as Civil Servants Based on Electric Word Browser (Web) (SISNIBI NANGKET)
Authors: fadhilah nur , Suyuti Ansar , ahmad mardiana
Published: December 2022

Documentation system that is not reported, about 82% of PNS Midwifes do not understand the system of recording and calculating their own credit numbers, thus imposing the work to other people who are more knowledgeable to complete it to fulfill the requirements for promotion and regular reporting for 1 year. This research aims to analyze the effect of perceived convenience and usefulness on the interest of civil servant Midwifes in using an integrated physiological information system for postpartum midwifery and infant midwifery credit scores for web-based civil servant Midwifes. This research uses several hardware, including, laptops connected to the internet, servers, software to build systems and connected via Internet access with the website (http://www.sisnibinangket.com). The SISNIBI NANGKET application is the first application in Indonesia that is used to facilitate civil servant Midwifes in the process of recording, reporting and calculating credit scores. The design of this research is observational analytic, namely research that explains the relationship between variables through hypothesis testing. Data analysis was carried out using univariate and bivariate analysis tested using the Chi-Square test. The results showed that there was a significant relationship between perceived convenience and perceived usefulness on the interest of civil servant Midwifes in using the SISNIBI NANGKET information system with p value p = 0.000 < = 0.005.
Impact of spinal sagittal malalignment on locomotive syndrome and physical function in community-dwelling older women
Authors: Yahata Mio , Watanabe Kei , Tashi Hideki , Ohashi Masayuki , Yoda Takuya , Nawata Atsushi , Nakamura Kazutoshi , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: December 2022

Background
Adult spinal deformity has a substantially debilitating effect on older people’s physical and mental health. However, the impact of sagittal malalignment on locomotive syndrome (LS), sarcopenia, and physical function in community-dwelling older women has not yet been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the association between these factors in community-dwelling older women.
Methods
A total of 361 women were recruited from participants performing aquatic exercises in a rural area of Japan. The body mass index, skeletal muscle mass index, trunk muscle mass, spinal inclination angle (SIA), grip strength, timed up-and-go test (TUG), maximum stride of the participants, and one-leg standing time were measured. Low back pain (LBP)- and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the Short-Form 8 questionnaire. Associations between the global sagittal alignment using SIA and investigating parameters were analyzed.
Results
The prevalence of sarcopenia was 16.6%. The prevalence of LS (stages 1, 2, and 3) was 43.8% (158 of 361), and the number of participants in each LS stage was 203 (stage 0), 95 (stage 1), 28 (stage 2), and 35 (stage 3). The SIA was significantly correlated with the 25-question geriatric locomotive function scale (r′= 0.292, p < 0.001), ODI (r′= 0.267, p < 0.001), and TUG (r′= 0.453, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age. In the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, the cutoff values of SIA for LS ≥ stage 2 and ODI ≥ 20% were 5°.
Conclusions
LBP-related QOL and physical performance were significantly associated with global sagittal alignment. Global sagittal alignment was correlated with the three-stage category of LS but not with sarcopenia. The spinal inclination of 5° was a cutoff value to predict exacerbation of mobility function and HRQOL status.
Bone Wax Occlusion: A Simple Method for managing Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage during Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Surgery
Authors: Deng Xuan-Geng , Cui Wei , Gu Tao , Sun Yu-Liang , Hou Wei , Wan Dun , Shi Hua-Gang
Published: December 2022

Background Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery is an important therapy for cervical degenerative diseases and trauma. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage caused by intraoperative iatrogenic dural injury is an unusual but relatively troublesome complication. This retrospective study aimed to explore the effectiveness of using bone wax occlusion to manage iatrogenic CSF Leakage during ACDF surgery. Methods Retrospective study was performed. The main technical point of bone wax occlusion is as follows: After the CSF Leakage was found during ACDF surgery, complete occlusion of the anterior gap between the intervertebral cage and the upper and lower vertebral bodies with bone wax, followed the canal decompression and implantation of the fusion cage. The postoperative incision drainage catheter was indwelt or not according to the number of surgical segments, with no need for lumbar drainage. The effectiveness of the method was verified by reviewing the cases in which the CSF Leakage occurring during ACDF surgery from May 2019 to June 2022 was managed with bone wax occlusion. Results In total, 5 cases were found to have CSF Leakage due to unintentional iatrogenic dural injury during surgery and the method for bone wax occlusion was all adopted for them among 273 cases of ACDF surgery in 3 years. In 5cases, 3cases were two levels with incision draft tube, and left 2cases were single level without incision or lumbar drainage tube. There were no CSF Leakage related manifestations in all 5 cases after surgery, and bone wax occlusion was successful. Conclusion For CSF Leakage caused by unintentional dural injury during ACDF, bone wax occlusion is a simple and effective method.
A magnetic hydrogel for the efficient retrieval of kidney stone fragments during ureteroscopy
Authors: Ge Tianjia , Roquero Daniel , Holton Grace , Mach Kathleen , Prado Kris , Lau Huber , Jensen Kristin , Chang Timothy , Conti Simon , Sheth Kunj , Wang Shan , Liao Joseph
Published: December 2022

Surgical management of stone disease aims for complete clearance, yet only 60–75% of ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy treatments achieve complete stone-free status. Up to 30% patients with residual fragments < 2 mm in size experience stone-related complications. We demonstrate a method of stone fragment retrieval in which fragments are coated with a magnetic hydrogel and retrieved en masse with a magnetic guidewire. The magnetic hydrogel facilitated robust in vitro capture of stone fragments up to 4 mm in size across a wide range of stone compositions. The components exhibited no cytotoxicity in cell culture and only superficial effects on the urothelium in ex vivo human urothelium and in vivo mouse bladders. Furthermore, the hydrogel demonstrated antimicrobial activity against common uropathogens on par with that of common antibiotics. By enabling the efficient retrieval of kidney stone fragments, our method could lead to improved stone-free rates and patient outcomes.
Characterising the Ionic Transport and Thermodynamic Properties of Potassium-ion Electrolytes
Authors: Dhir Shobhan , Jagger Ben , Maguire Alen , Pasta Mauro
Published: December 2022

Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are emerging as a promising complementary technology to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to the availability and low cost of potassium. The lower charge density of K+ compared to Li+ has been suggested to result in superior ion transport in the electrolyte with KIBs potentially able to deliver superior rate capability and low-temperature performance. However, a comprehensive characterisation of the ionic transport and thermodynamic properties of nonaqueous K-ion electrolytes, critical to the development of KIBs, has not yet been reported. Here, for the first time, we fully characterise the ionic transport and thermodynamic properties of a nonaqueous K-ion electrolyte, potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI) in 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME) and compare it with its Li-ion equivalent (LiFSI:DME) over the concentration range 0.25-2 m. This was realised by developing a K metal preparation protocol enabling sufficient K metal stability for electrolyte characterisation. Our results demonstrate that KFSI:DME indeed displays significantly higher salt diffusion coefficients and cation transference numbers than LiFSI:DME, evidencing the potential for high-power applications of KIBs.
Heart rate responses in critical care trainees during airway intubation: a comparison between the simulated and clinical environments
Authors: Ji Jackson , Langley Bridget , Zordan Rachel , Dijk Julian , Thies Heidi Helene Graham , Brahmbhatt Anjalee , Torcasio Clarissa , Cunningham Neil
Published: December 2022

Objective
This study aimed to compare the heart rate response to stress during airway intubations in clinical practice and a simulated environment.
Methods
Twenty-five critical care registrars participated in the study over a 3-month period. Heart rate data during intubations was recorded by a FitBit® Charge 2 worn by each participant during their clinical practice, and during a single simulated airway management scenario. The heart rate range was calculated by subtracting the baseline working heart rate (BWHR) from the maximum functional heart rate (MFHR). For each airway intubation performed participants recorded an airway diary entry. Data from intubations performed in the clinical environment was compared to data from a simulated environment. Heart rate changes were observed in two ways: percentage rise (median) across the 20-minute intubation period and; percentage rise at point of intubation (median).
Results
Eighteen critical care registrars completed the study, mean age 31.8 years (SD=2.015, 95% CI=30.85-32.71). Throughout the 20-minute peri-intubation recording period there was no significant difference in the median change in heart rates between the clinical (14.72%) and simulation (15.96%) environment (p=0.149). At the point of intubation there was no significant difference in the median change in heart rate between the clinical (16.03%) and the simulation (25.65%) environment groups (p=0.054).
Conclusion
In this small population of critical care trainees, a simulation scenario induced a comparable heart rate response to the clinical environment during intubation. This provides evidence that simulation scenarios are able to induce a comparable physiological stress response to the clinical environment and thus facilitates effective teaching of a high-risk procedure in a safe manner.