bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective separation of Oil-in-Water using exfoliated g-C3N4- PSf composite membranes
Authors: Balakrishna R. Geetha , Divakar Swathi , Sherugar Prajwal , Nagaraja K.K. , Padaki Mahesh
Published: August 2022

Integrated membranes are found to have tremendous application in treating oily waste water to produce potable water. The present work reports the use of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) as a suitable membrane additive mainly because of its hydrophilic nature and strong functionality. Exfoliated g-C3N4 offers high surface area and more active centres required for membrane applications. This work demonstrates the excellent features observed on exfoliation of g-C3N4 as a composite material in polysulphone (PSf) membranes. The well thought out exfoliated g-C3N4-PSf composite gave promising oil-water separation with oil rejection >99%. In addition, these exfoliated laminar planes interacted well with the polymer giving both thermally and mechanically stable membranes. The membrane also attains high porosity, enhanced hydrophilicity and adequate oily water treatment ability. Oil being the important fouling component can easily destroy membranes if not addressed. This fouling behaviour of membrane is tackled where the composite membrane shows a remarkable flux recovery ratio of near 100% with no comprise in oil rejection during subsequent cycles. This current study demonstrates high porosity, enhanced hydrophilicity and adequate oil-water treatment ability. The study does provide insights into the use of such nanosheets to achieve good chemical interaction with the membrane matrix thus providing the synergistic features of both g-C3N4 and PSf.
Beneficial effects of conservation agriculture on soil fauna communities in Northern France
Authors: Dulaurent Anne-Maïmiti , Houben David , Honvault Nicolas , Faucon Michel-Pierre , Chauvat Matthieu
Published: August 2022

Aim Conservation agriculture is increasingly adopted to improve soil fertility and reduce the depressive effects of intensive farming on soil functions and associated services. However, conservation agriculture systems may greatly differ from each other by their age and the quantity and the quality of cover crops and the effects of these variables on soil fauna are still poorly known. Here, we aim at gaining insight into the impact of conservation agriculture on soil mesofauna and macrofauna communities at the cropping and farming system levels. Method Collembola and earthworm communities were compared in seven neighbouring pairs of fields (same topography, spring crop and soil type) being either under conventional systems, or under conservation agriculture systems with intermediate autumn cover crops. Results Conservation agriculture systems positively influenced soil mesofauna and macrofauna communities compared to conventional systems. The beneficial effects of conservation agriculture on earthworm communities were predominantly related to the lower soil physical disturbance (no-tillage) while Collembola were also positively affected by cover crop characteristics and the age of the practice. Conclusions The adoption of conservation agriculture systems may improve earthworm and Collembola abundance and represents thus an innovative opportunity for sustainable crop production through the preservation of soil biodiversity. In addition, our findings suggest that both earthworms and Collembola may be used as indicators for agri-environmental management at the cropping system level.
Microplastics in surface water of Laguna de Bay: First documented evidence on the largest lake in the Philippines
Authors: Arcadio Cris Gel Loui A. , Navarro Carl Kenneth P. , Similatan Kaye M. , Inocente Sherley Ann T. , Ancla Sheila Mae B. , Banda Marybeth Hope T. , Capangpangan Rey Y. , Torres Armi G. , Bacosa Hernando P.
Published: August 2022

The pollution of aquatic systems by microplastics is a well-known environmental problem. However, limited studies have been conducted in freshwater systems, especially in the Philippines. Here we determined for the first time the amount of microplastics in the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake, the Laguna de Bay. Ten (10) sampling stations on the lake's surface water were sampled using a plankton net. Samples were extracted and analyzed using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A total of 100 microplastics were identified from 10 sites with a mean density of 14.29 items/m3. The majority of microplastics were fibers (57%), while blue-colored microplastics predominated in the sampling areas (53%). There were 11 microplastic polymers identified predominantly polypropylene (PP), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which together account for 65% of the total microplastics in the areas. The results show that there is a higher microplastic density in areas with high relative population density which necessitates the implementation of proper plastic waste management measures in the communities operating on the lake and in its vicinity to protect the lake's ecosystem services. Furthermore, future research should also focus on the environmental risks posed by these microplastics, especially on the fisheries and aquatic resources.
Caffeine Ameliorates the Metabolic Syndrome in Diet-induced Obese Mice Through Regulating the Gut Microbiota and Serum Metabolism
Authors: Chen Li , Wang Xian-jun , Chen Jie-xin , Yang Jing-cheng , lin Ling , Cai Xian-Bin , Chen Yong-song
Published: August 2022

Objective
Obesity is associated with gut microbiota disorders, which has been related to developing metabolic syndromes. The research aims to investigate the effects of caffeine treatment on insulin resistance, intestinal microbiota composition and serum metabolomic changes in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity mice.
Methods
Eight-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal chow diet (NCD) or HFD with or without different concentrations of caffeine. After 12 weeks of treatment, body weight, insulin resistance, serum lipid profiles, gut microbiota and serum metabolomic profiles were assessed.
Results
Caffeine intervention improved the metabolic syndrome in HFD-fed mice, such as serum lipid disorders and insulin resistance. 16S rRNA Sequencing analysis revealed that caffeine increased the relative abundance of Dubosiella, Bifidobacterium and Desulfovibrio and decreased that of Bacteroides, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus to reverse HFD-fed obesity in mice. Additionally, Caffeine Supplementation also altered serum metabolomics, mainly focusing on lipid metabolism, bile acid metabolism and energy metabolism. Caffeine increased its metabolite 1,7-Dimethylxanthine, which was positively correlated with Dubosiella.
Conclusions
Caffeine exerts a beneficial effect on insulin resistance in HFD-mice, and the underlying mechanism may be partly related to altered gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism.
LH level does not indicate poor response to GnRh-a single trigger: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Li Xue-Fei , Wang Qiao-Feng , He Qi-Qi , Wang XueJiao , LV Xing-Yu , Tang Xiaojun , Zhong Zhaohui , Ding Yu-Bin , Wan Qi
Published: August 2022

Objective:To compare the embryo condition and clinical outcomes between patients with low and normal serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels on the day after a single trigger of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a). In patients with low LH levels we further analyzed the efficacy of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to trigger ovulation.Methods:We retrospectively analyzed 957 infertile patients (tubal factor, ovulation disorders, male sperm factor, or unexplained infertility) who were treated with in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI)-assisted pregnancy at the Chengdu Xinan Gynecology Hospital from July 2017 to December 2020. Patients with sufficient GnRH-a single trigger and normal serum LH levels on the next day were used as the control group (n=906), and patients with low LH levels were set as the experimental group (n=51), of whom 10 received HCG retriggering. We analyzed the effects of low and normal LH levels, and the efficacy HCG retriggering in patients with low LH level on the embryo status and embryonic transplantation after cryopreservation outcome of patients.Results:There were no significant differences in egg yield, 2PN fertilization rate, excellent embryo rate, or live birth rate of frozen-thawed embryos between patients with low and normal LH levels after GnRH-a trigger. There was also no difference in patients with low LH levels who received HCG retriggering or not.Conclusion:The outcomes of patients with low LH levels on the day after GnRH-a administration were similar to those of patients with normal LH levels. The embryo status and live birth rate of frozen-thawed embryos in patients with low LH levels in the HCG retriggering and non-HCG retriggering groups are similar. When blood LH< 10 miu/ml was measured on the day after GnRH-a trigger, no special treatment was required, and there was no significant effect on embryonic and clinical outcomes. No blood LH test is required on the day following the trigger, which does not affect the outcome of in vitro fertilization.
Does higher knee hyperextension in patients with hemiplegia affect lateral and medial meniscus volume in the paretic leg? A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Wenshan , Li Tiancong , Xi Xiaoshuang , Zhang Rong , Sun Weishuang , Zhang Dan , Gong Weijun
Published: August 2022

Background: After stroke, an abnormal gait pattern gradually leads to knee pain and joint lesions, resulting the gait instability. However, the correlation between the knee hyperextension and gait pattern, the meniscus volume, and the water content of meniscus in paretic and non-paretic legs has not been fully investigated. Moreover, most of physicians tend to ignore this knee hyperextension. This study attempted to emphasize the importance of knee hyperextension using gait analysis and Magnetic resonance imaging (Trial registration number ChiCTR2000039641, date of registration 04/11/2020).Methods: Eight patients with chronic hemiplegic (6 male, 2 female) volunteered to participate in this study. Participants was recruited if they had a hemiplegia following a stroke occurring more than 6 months, had an ability to walk 10 meters without aids, had a Function Ambulation Category level at least 3 and above, and had a hemiplegic lower extremity identified as Brunnstrom state III or above identification. The spatial-temporal gait parameters and kinematic parameters in the paretic and the non-paretic legs and the percentage of free water content in deep and shallow layers.Results: Longer time since hemiplegia led to larger angles of knee hyperextension (R = 0.56, p = 0.016), larger angles of knee hyperextension led to more tears in meniscus (R = - 0.53, -0,57 and -0.70), and larger angles of knee hyperextension decreased water content of the lateral meniscus in the non-paretic leg (R = -0.91) but increased water content of the medial meniscus (R = 0.53 and 0.63).Conclusions: The knee hyperextension could not be ignored by physicians and needed to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible, the time since hemiplegia could be an indicator of sign of knee hyperextension. https: //doi.org/10.1101/2022.02.18.22271154
Hepatocyte growth factor-mediated apoptosis mechanisms of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells in normal and cirrhotic liver
Authors: Bai Lianhua , Chen Quanyu , Yan Min , Lin Heng , Lai Jiejuan , Yang Zhiqing , Hu Deyu , Deng Yuanyu , Shi Saiyu , Shuai Ling , Zhang Leida , Zhang Hongyu
Published: August 2022

Intrahepatic stem/progenitor cells and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells (CD8+ T cells) in the cirrhotic liver undergo apoptosis potentially facilitating progression to cancer. Here, we report that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling plays an important role in promoting normal and damaged liver CD8+ T cell Fas-mediated apoptotosis through its only receptor c-Met. In addition to binding with HGF, c-Met also binds to Fas as a complex. Using a diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis mouse model, immunofluostaining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, we identified significantly increased HGF secretion at 10 weeks post-DEN, the liver cirrhotic phase (LCP), compared to it at 3 weeks post-DEN, the liver fibrotic phase (LFP). Correspondingly, difference CD8+ T cell proliferation and apoptosis were noted in the two phases, Interestingly, staining and TUNEL identified that higher smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)+ cell apoptosis, a marker for hepatic stellate cell (HSC) in the LFP compared to their in the LCP, suggesting that beneficial correlation of HGF, CD8+ T cells and HSC in improving fibrotic load during damaged liver repair. In cultures, up to 200 ng/mL amounts of recombinant HGF the naive mouse splenic CD8+ T cells (n-msCD8+ T cells) death, 400 ng/mL rHGF show directly activated death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) to recruit FADD and caspase-8 in both nsCD8+ T cells and healthy human peripheral blood CD8+ T cells (hp-CD8+ T cells), suggesting Fas-mediated apoptosis, may suggest the regulating role of HGF signaling in hepatic homeostasis.
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals the biological processes of hybridization incompatibility between Brassica napus and B. oleracea
Authors: Yue Fang , Zheng Fajing , Li Qinfei , Qian Wei
Published: August 2022

It is an important breeding strategy to improve Brassica napus by crossing with its parental species, B. oleracea and B. rapa. Interspecific hybridization between B. napus and B. rapa is compatible with high rate of survival embryo, while the hybridization between B. napus and B. oleracea is incompatible with high occurrence of embryo abortion. To understand the diverse embryo fate in the two interspecific hybridizations, here the siliques of B. napus pollinated with B. oleracea (AE) and B. rapa (NE) were employed for transcriptome sequencing at 8 and 16 days after pollination. Compared with NE and female, there were 1274 and 1698 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AE at 8 and 16 days after pollination (AE8 and AE16), which were significantly enriched into 67 and 72 GO terms, respectively. Of which 9 and 15 GO terms in cell growth, cell wall formation harbored high ratio of down-regulated expression DEGs (96/131 in AE8, 174/235 in AE16), while 12 and 17 GO terms in the processes of photosynthesis, photorespiration, peroxisome, oxidative stress and systemic acquired resistance harbored high ratio of up-regulated expression DEGs (222/304 in AE8, 214/287 in AE16). A high level of O2−, H2O2 content and antioxidation activity (SOD, CAT) was tested in the siliques of B. napus pollinated with B. oleracea. Our data suggest that disorder of plant hormone metabolism, retardation of cell morphogenesis and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may associate with hybridization incompatibility between B. napus and B. oleracea.
The transcription factor HBP1 activates ferroptosis in tumor cells by regulating the UHRF1-CDO1 axis
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Yang Ruixiang , Zhou Yue , Zhang Tongjia , Wang Shujie , Wang Jiyin , Cheng Yuning , Li Hui , Jiang Wei , Zhe Yang
Published: August 2022

The induction of ferroptosis in tumor cells is one of the most important mechanisms by which tumor progression can be inhibited; however, the specific regulatory mechanisms underlying ferroptosis remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the important role of HBP1 in ferroptosis. HBP1 down-regulates the protein levels of UHRF1 by inhibiting the expression of the UHRF1 gene at the transcriptional level. Reduced levels of UHRF1 have been shown to regulate the ferroptosis-related gene CDO1 by epigenetic mechanisms, thus up-regulating the level of CDO1 and promoting ferroptosis in tumor cells. On this basis, we constructed metal-polyphenol-network coated HBP1 nanoparticles by combining biological and nanotechnological. MPN-HBP1 nanoparticles entered tumor cells efficiently and innocuously, induced ferroptosis and inhibited the malignant proliferation of tumors by regulating the HBP1-UHRF1-CDO1 signaling pathway. This study provides a new perspective for further research on the regulatory mechanism underlying ferroptosis and its potential role in tumor therapy.
Tumor Lesion Detection in Patients with Cervical Cancer by Indocyanine Green Near-Infrared Imaging
Authors: Li Pengfei , Liu Jiaqi , He Kunshan , Gong Shipeng , Chi Chongwei , Liu Pan , Su Guidong , Li Weili , Duan Hui , Liu Ping , Tian Jie , Chen Chunlin
Published: August 2022

Purpose：To investigate the feasibility and accuracy of near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging for detecting the extent of tumor invasion in cervical cancer using indocyanine green (ICG).Methods:We enrolled 51 patients who were diagnosed with cervical cancer with FIGO stage IB1-IIA2 disease. Patients were administered indocyanine green (ICG) at a dose of 5 mg/kg 24 hours prior to surgery. A customized near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging system was used to identify the extension of tumor invasion when radical hysterectomy specimens were harvested. The relationship between tumor fluorescence intensity and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed.Results:Three patients were without residual tumors after cervical conization, and tumor lesions were identified by NIRF imaging in all the remaining 48 patients. The results of NIRF imaging were in agreement with the postoperative pathological findings in 95.8% of the patients with stromal invasion, 100% of those with surgical margin invasion, 100% of those with parametrial tumor involvement, and 100% of patients with uterine corpus invasion. The mean signal-to-background ratio (SBR) of the cervical tumors was 2.91±1.64, and the SBR was independent of clinicopathological characteristics. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed that ICG fluorescence was present in the tumor nests.Conclusions:NIRF imaging enables objective, accurate and safe identification of tumor invasion during cervical cancer surgery.Clinical Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04224467.
An MMSPEED based droplet Routing protocol for Digital Microfluidic Biochip
Authors: Swain Jyotiranjan , Pyne Sumanta
Published: August 2022

Droplet routing is very important phase in biochemical synthesis using digital microfluidic biochip. The goal is to transport droplet from one module to other maintaining fluidic constraint at every instant of time. In this paper we proposed a new droplet routing based on MMSPED routing protocol. It use multiple copies of route request packets to explore and discover the routes. To validate these routes, hello packets are used.The routes are then classified and sorted based on a user defined heuristics. Finally, route compaction is performed to generate the parallel moving sequence. Simulation result shows 12.25% and 20.5% improvement in latest arrival time for free and virtual topology respectively.
Modeling a Remanufacturing Reverse Logistics Planning Problem: Some Insights into Disruptive Technology Adoption
Authors: Yu Hao
Published: August 2022

Remanufacturing is the process to restore the functionality of high-value Endof-life (EOL) products, which is a substantial link in reverse logistics systems for value recovery. However, due to the uncertainty of the reverse material flow, the planning of a remanufacturing reverse logistics system is complex. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of disruptive technologies in Industry 4.0/5.0, e.g., Internet of things (IoT), smart robots, cloud-based digital twin, additive manufacturing, etc., have shown a great potential for a smart paradigm transition of remanufacturing reverse logistics operations. In this paper, a new mixed-integer program is modeled for supporting several tactical decisions in remanufacturing reverse logistics, i.e., remanufacturing setups, production and inventory levels, purchase and transportation, and remanufacturing line utilization and balancing. The model is further extended by incorporating utilization-dependent nonlinear idle time cost constraints and stochastic takt time to accommodate different real-world scenarios. Through a set of numerical experiments, the influences of different demand patterns and idle time constraints are revealed. The potential impacts of disruptive technology adoption in remanufacturing reverse logistics are also discussed from managerial perspectives, which may help remanufacturing companies with a smart and smooth transition in the Industry 4.0/5.0 era.
Lymphedema therapy referral is associated with improved understanding of lymphedema prevention among breast cancer survivors
Authors: Klugman Madelyn , Tringale Kathryn R. , Patil Sujata , Montagna Giacomo , Finik Jackie , Kuo Ting-Ting , Eberle Carolyn , Pinkhasov Alexandr , Gillis Theresa , Gany Francesca , Blinder Victoria
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Lymphedema is common among breast cancer survivors (BCS) and negatively affects quality of life. There are modifiable factors to reduce lymphedema risk and exacerbation; it is unknown how aware survivors are of these factors. We hypothesized referral to lymphedema therapy (LT) to be associated with greater lymphedema knowledge.Methods: BCS at an NCI-designated cancer center between 2014-2015 were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Eligibility criteria were the following: age ≥18, female sex, English-speaking, > 6 months post definitive breast cancer surgery, no cancer recurrence, and no prior or subsequent second cancer. The questionnaire included sociodemographics, clinical factors including LT referral, and 10 true/false questions assessing lymphedema knowledge. Multivariable logistic regressions assessed the relationship between prior LT referral and correctly answering questions about lymphedema misconceptions.Results: Of 209 participants, 53 (25%) had been referred to LT. Those who had sentinel lymph node dissection were less frequently referred to LT [15 (14%)] than those who had axillary lymph node dissection [38 (39%)]. Five of the true/false questions had a correct response rate of <80%. In multivariable regression adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, education, axillary surgery, and radiation therapy, LT referral was associated with answering the questions about weight gain and exercising the arm on an airplane correctly [weight gain: odds ratio, 95% confidence interval (OR, 95%CI): 3.63 (1.66-7.96), airplane: 2.65 (1.15-6.13)].Conclusion: Misconceptions surrounding lymphedema prevention and management are common among BCS. LT referral is a potential opportunity to debunk common misunderstandings regarding lymphedema risk reduction.
Investigating the Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Probability of Relapse and Mental Health in Patients with Substance Abuse Disorder Undergoing Methadone Maintenance Treatment
Authors: Amini Zahra , HeidariFarsani Ebrahim
Published: August 2022

Background Considering different factors such as high withdrawal rates in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) programs alongside mental health (MH) problems appearing in patients with substance abuse disorder and the lack of prior research on the effect of zinc supplementation in this respect, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc supplementation on probability of relapse (PoR) and MH problems in patients with substance abuse disorder undergoing MMT.Methods For this purpose, a randomized controlled trial with a clinical basis was fulfilled on a total of 68 patients with substance abuse disorder receiving MMT, allocated to two groups, viz. intervention and control (each one consisting of 34 individuals). Then, the participants in the intervention group were given zinc supplements combined with methadone for three months and the controls only took methadone, according to the treatment plan. The data were collected using the Relapse Prediction Scale (RPS) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) before, one month after, and at the end of the intervention program.Findings Compared to the control group, PoR (p=0.01), drug craving (p=0.002), and the RPS total score (p=0.002) in the intervention group were significantly lower. Moreover, the results revealed a significant decreasing trend in depression (p=0.01), anxiety (p<0.001), stress (p = 0.001), and the DASS-21 total score (p=0.001) in the intervention. Compared to the control group, the DASS-21 total score (p<0.001) in the intervention group were significantly lower.Conclusion Accordingly, it was concluded that zinc supplementation could reduce the PoR and improve MH problems in patients with substance abuse disorder experiencing MMT. However, further research is recommended to fill the gaps.Trial Registration The research protocol has been also listed on the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) with the code no. IRCT2020050904736N1
Highly Sensitive and Selective Surface Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Electrochemical Sensors Prepared by Au and MXene Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Efficient Detection of Tetrabromobisphenol A in Water
Authors: Shao Yanming , Zhu Ying , Zheng Rui , Wang Peng , Zhao Zhizhen , An Jun
Published: August 2022

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) was a widely used brominated flame retardants (BFRs) to impede or inhibit flammability. It was detected in aquatic food webs, soils, and sediments from diverse electronic waste (e-waste) recycling sites. A selective and sensitive electrochemical sensor which was construct by dropped molecular imprinted polymer onto MXene and Au nanoparticles modified glassy carbon electrode was used to detect TBBPA. The specific recognition site provided by molecular imprinted polymer can ensure the accuracy of detection results. Excellent conductivity of MXene and Au nanoparticles can effectively enhance the responsive signal of the sensors. Fe3O4 nanoparticles was firstly fixed on graphene sheets via the solvothermal method, and the azido was introduced by nucleophilic addition between carbonyl and amino after dopamine was self-polymerized onto the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Molecularly imprinted polymer was prepared by RAFT polymerization after RAFT agent was introduced by the click chemistry between azido and alkynyl. The concentration of TBBPA was detected by differential pulse voltammetry. The influences of accumulation time and pH value were investigated. The as-prepared molecular imprinting sensor exhibited a good linear relationship to the concentration of TBBPA range from 0.05 to 10 nM with a detection limit of 0.0144 nM. The proposed sensor was also successfully used to detect TBBPA in water samples and the recovery for the standards added was 97.1–106%.
Erythrocyte membrane integrity and protein activity in high fat diet fed male Wistar rats
Authors: Ogbara Festus Freedom , Ige Abayomi O. , Adele Bernard Omokheshi , Adewoye Elsie Olufunke
Published: August 2022

PurposeHigh fat diet (HFD) has been reported to induce systemic inflammation and oxidative stress that may affect the structural integrity of erythrocytes and alter their ability to undergo deformation. This study was therefore designed to investigate the effect of HFD feeding on erythrocyte membrane integrity and protein activity in male Wistar rats.MethodsTen animals (100-120g) were grouped equally and exposed to either standard diet or HFD (25%-fat) for 42days. Thereafter, retro-orbital sinus blood was collected under anesthesia (thiopental) and aliquots were analyzed for erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), osmotic fragility and mean corpuscular fragility. Erythrocyte ghost membranes were also isolated from blood sample aliquots and analyzed for total protein concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), Na+K+-ATPase activity, Ca2+Mg2+-ATPase activity and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-4 level.ResultsOsmotic fragility and mean corpuscular fragility were significantly increased (P<0.05) in the HFD-fed group compared to control. ESR (mm/hr) (64.60±2.34 vs. 21.20±1.53), membrane MDA (µMol) (3.66±0.86 vs. 0.43±0.08) and ICAM-4 (ng/ml) (1.68±0.23 vs. 0.49±0.16) levels were also increased (P<0.05) in the group 2 (HFD) compared to group 1 (standard diet). Compared to standard diet group, erythrocyte membrane total protein concentration (10.46±0.96 vs 6.00±0.38 g/dl) and Na+K+ATPase activity (1.37±0.22 vs 0.22±0.03 x107µmol pi/mg protein/hr) was reduced (P<0.05) in the HFD group while Ca2+Mg2+-ATPase exhibited a 27.9% increase in activity.ConclusionThis study suggests that high fat diet may compromise the structural and functional integrity of erythrocytes by activating systemic inflammation, erythrocyte membrane and protein oxidation as well dysregulated membrane ATPase activity required to maintain erythrocyte deformability in male Wistar rat.
Chidamide induces EBV lytic infection and synergistically with tenofovir eliminate EBV-positive Burkitt lymphoma and inhibit EBV DNA replication
Authors: Xu Linyan , Zhang Meng , Tu Dongyun , Lu Ziyi , Lu Tianyi , Ma Dongshen , Zhou Yi , Zhang Shuo , Ma Yuhan , Yan Dongmei , Wang Xiangmin , Sang Wei
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
LMSuccSite: Improving Protein Succinylation Sites Prediction Using Embeddings from Protein Language Model
Authors: Pokharel Suresh , Pratyush Pawel , Heinzinger Michael , Newman Robert , KC Dukka
Published: August 2022

Protein succinylation is an important post-translational modification (PTM) responsible for many vital metabolic activities in cells, including cellular respiration, regulation, and repair. Here, we present a novel approach that combines features from supervised word embedding with embedding from a protein language model called ProtT5-XL-UniRef50 (hereafter termed, ProtT5) in a deep learning framework to predict protein succinylation sites. To our knowledge, this is one of the first attempts to employ embedding from a pre-trained protein language model to predict protein succinylation sites. The proposed model, dubbed LMSuccSite, achieves state-of-the-art results compared to existing methods, with performance scores of 0.36, 0.79, 0.79 for MCC, sensitivity, and specificity, respectively. LMSuccSite is likely to serve as a valuable resource for exploration of succinylation and its role in cellular physiology and disease.
Data-Driven Contagion Risk Management in Low-Income Countries: Machine Learning Applications with COVID-19 in South Asia
Authors: Shonchoy Abu , Mahzab Moogdho , Mahmood Towhid , Ali Manhal
Published: August 2022

Objectives To derive and validate a data-driven Contagion Risk Index (CR-Index) at sub-national level for low-income countries – detecting potential infection hotspots – aiding policymakers with efficient mitigation planning for COVID-19 and future epidemics and pandemics. Methods We utilize daily district-level COVID-19 data (positive cases and deaths) from South Asia (India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh) from 2020–2022 to derive the CR-Index – founded on commutable disease spreadability vectors across four domains: urbanization, informality, migration, and health infrastructure. We validated CR-Index based risk-zoning by utilizing time-series regressions and machine learning (ML) estimates (Random Forests and a battery of cross-validation) for predictive accuracy. Results Regressions demonstrate a strong association between the CR-Index and sub-national COVID-19 epidemiology data. ML driven validation show strong predictive support for the CR-Index that can distinguish districts with high-risk COVID-19 cases/deaths for more than 85% of the time. Conclusion Our proposed simple and replicable CR-Index is an easily interpretable tool that can help low-income countries to prioritize resource mobilization (such as vaccination roll-out or free in-home test-kits) to contain the disease spread and associated crisis management, with global relevance and applicability.
Study on the four-point bending beam method to improve the testing accuracy for the Elastic Constants of wood
Authors: Wang Zheng , Gu Xiaoyu , Mohrmann Sarah , Shen Zhaoyu , Huang Yujie , Zhou Yuhao
Published: August 2022

Using the static analysis of ANSYS 19 longitudinal, radial, and transverse beam specimens of spruce, pine, and beech were subjected to stress and strain analysis under symmetrical four-point bending and asymmetrical four-point bending, respectively. The effects of wood grain on the surface of the specimen and its stress properties on the transverse and longitudinal strain at the center of the specimen surface were studied experimentally. The results show that the four-point bending beam method is suitable for testing the elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio and shear modulus of wood. The elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio and shear modulus of Larch chord and radial and Western Canadian spruce transverse specimens were tested by four point bending beam method. Their effectiveness was verified by axial tension method, square plate torsional strain method and free rod torsional vibration method. The four-point bending method of two groups of half bridge test has successfully improved the test accuracy of wood Poisson's ratio, and its effectiveness has been verified by axial tension method. The asymmetric four point bending method adopts the ±45°strain gauge full bridge measurement method, which is simple and effective to improve the measurement accuracy of wood shear modulus.
Knockout mouse models as a resource for rare diseases studies
Authors: Silva-Buttkus Patricia da , Spielmann Nadine , Klein-Rodewald Tanja , Schütt Christine , Aguilar-Pimentel Antonio , Amarie Oana V. , Becker Lore , Calzada-Wack Julia , Garrett Lillian , Gerlini Raffaele , Kraiger Markus , Leuchtenberger Stefanie , Östereicher Manuela A. , Rathkolb Birgit , Sanz-Moreno Adrián , Stöger Claudia , Hölter Sabine M. , Seisenberger Claudia , Marschall Susan , Fuchs Helmut , Gailus-Durner Valerie , de Angelis Martin Hrabě
Published: August 2022

Rare diseases (RDs) are a challenge for medicine due to their heterogeneous clinical manifestation and low prevalence. There is a lack of specific treatments and only a few hundred of the approximately 7.000 RDs have an approved regime. Rapid technological development in genome sequencing enables the mass identification of potential candidates that in their mutated form could trigger diseases but are often not confirmed to be causal. Knockout (KO) mouse models are essential to understand the causality of genes by allowing highly standardized research into the pathogenesis of diseases. The German Mouse Clinic (GMC) is one of the pioneers in mouse research and successfully uses (preclinical) data obtained from single-gene KO mutants for research into monogenic RDs. As part of the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium and INFRAFRONTIER, the pan-European consortium for modelling human diseases, the GMC expands these preclinical data towards global collaborative approaches with researchers, clinicians and patient groups. Here, we highlight proprietary genes like proof-of-concept RD targets (Nacc1, Bach2, Klotho alpha). We focus on recognized RD genes with no pre-existing KO mouse models (Kansl1l, Acsf3, Pcdhgb2, Rabgap1, Cox7a2) and novel phenotypes capable of optimising clinical diagnostic (Rabgap1, Pcdhgb2). In addition, we present yet unknown RD genes with intriguing phenotypic data (Zdhhc5, Wsb2) not presently associated with known human RDs that may have a justified case to suggest causal genes underlying so far undiagnosed diseases. This report provides comprehensive evidence for genes that when deleted cause differences in the KO mouse across multiple organs, providing a huge translational potential for further understanding monogenic RDs and their clinical spectrum. Genetic KO studies in mice are valuable to explore further the underlying physiological mechanisms and its overall therapeutic potential.
THz Image Reconstruction Based on Improved Linearized-ADMM Algorithm
Authors: Wang Tianhe , Jiang Ming , Ding Jinshan , Zhang Yuhong
Published: August 2022

THz time-domain spectroscopy system (THz-TDS) can provide spectral information about materials, but the data acquisition takes a long time in THz imaging applications. The compressed sensing algorithm is a computational imaging technique. In this paper, we present a THz compressed sensing imaging method based on an improved linearized-ADMM algorithm. Linearized ADMM methods linearize access to the optimal solution through their gradient evaluations and can effectively solve the sparse recovery problem. The proposed algorithm needs much fewer THz spectra and reduces acquisition time. First, the Gaussian filter in the image domain and the Nesterov acceleration method are adopted in the iterative process to facilitate the convergence speed. Secondly, the MAD (Median absolute deviation) is chosen to calculate the threshold in the soft-shrink step. MAD is a robust measure of sample differences in univariate data sets. It is more flexible than the standard deviation in handling outliers in data sets, and can greatly reduce the impact of outliers on data sets. Thirdly, the L1-reweighted algorithm and averaging sparsity technique are used to enhance the performance and stability of the proposed approach. Finally, the THz beam pattern is taken into consideration to improve image resolution. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method has a good performance in THz imaging.
The role of deforestation and fragmentation in yellow fever virus dispersal
Authors: Wilk-da-Silva Ramon , Prist Paula Ribeiro , Medeiros-Sousa Antônio Ralph , Laporta Gabriel Zorello , Mucci Luis Filipe , Marrelli Mauro Toledo
Published: August 2022

Context The intense process of deforestation in tropical forests poses serious challenges for the survival of biodiversity, as well as for the human species itself. This scenario is supported by the increase in the incidence of epidemics of zoonotic origin observed over the last few decades. In the specific case of sylvatic yellow fever (YF), it has already been shown that an increase in the transmission risk of the causative agent (yellow fever virus - YFV) is associated with areas with a high degree of forest fragmentation, which can facilitate the spread of the virus. Methods In this study we tested the hypothesis that areas with more fragmented landscapes and a higher edge density (ED) but a high degree of connectivity between forest patches favor YFV spread. To this end, we used YF epizootics in non-human primates (NHPs) in the state of São Paulo to build direct networks, and used a multi-selection approach to analyze which landscape features could facilitate YFV spread. Results Our results showed that municipalities with the potential to spread the virus exhibited a higher amount of forest edge. Additionally, the models with greater empirical support showed a strong association between forest edge density and the risk of occurrence of epizootic diseases, as well as the need for a minimum threshold of native vegetation cover to restrict their transmission. Conclusions These findings corroborate our hypothesis that more fragmented landscapes with a higher degree of connectivity favor the spread of YFV, while landscapes with fewer connections tend to act as dead zones for the circulation of the virus.
The differential diagnosis of lichenoid keratosis and seborrheic keratosis with reflectance confocal microscopy: a preliminary study
Authors: Chen Jing , Gao Min , Zhang Zhaopeng , Chen Shengli , Lin Yan , Liu Huaxu
Published: August 2022

Backgrounds and Objectives:The lichenoid keratosis(LK) and seborrheic keratosis(SK) have similar lesions on cosmetically sensitive area,but require different therapies. The histology analysis could easily identify LK and SK, however, the biopsy may cause scarring and result in hyper-pigmentation, which reduced the compliance of the patients to be biopsied. In this study, we investigated the role of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in the non invasive differential diagnosis of LK and SK.Patients and methods:Cases with facial brown patches or plaques suspicious of SK were enrolled in the study. After written informed consent was obtained, the lesions were photographed,imaged by RCM,and then biopsied. The RCM findings were analyzed and correlated with histology results.The evaluation of the RCM pictures and confirmation with histological results were conducted by two independent dermatologists.Results:10 cases were enrolled in the study.The main characteristics of LK lesions observed by RCM were the disarray of the dermal and epidermal junction(DEJ), and the marked inflammatory infiltration in the superficial dermis; while those with cerebriform pattern, or elongated cords with bulbous projections without significant inflammation reaction, were the features of SK.Among the 10 cases, clinically suspicious of facial SK, 4 were determined as LK, 6 as SK by RCM imaging, and all the RCM findings were confirmed by histological results.Conclusions:The presence of DEJ disarray and inflammatory infiltration in the superficial dermis is the main pattern of LK. The RCM features of LK and SK have significant difference, highlighting the important role of RCM in the differential diagnosis of LK and SK.
Therapeutic and Protective Effects of Piperine and Its Combination with Curcumin, As A Bioenhancer, Against Aluminum-Induced Damage in The Astrocyte Cells
Authors: Erfen Şebnem , Çetin Esin Akbay
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic and protective effects of piperine and its combination with curcumin on reactive primary astrocyte cells and whether the bioavailability of curcumin increases when piperine is used together with it (synergistic effect). Recently, studies with astrocyte cells have attracted attention to neurodegeneration pathologies caused by aluminum exposure. In particular, it has become common to study the potential of herbal therapeutic agents to inhibit the effect of aluminum. This study investigated whether piperine, curcumin, and the synergistic effect of these two components have therapeutic and protective effects against aluminum in primary isolated astrocyte cells. In order to examine the protective effect, compounds at specific concentrations were applied to the cells before the aluminum application, and for the therapeutic effect, the effectiveness of the compounds was examined after the aluminum application. The efficacy of therapeutic agents individually and synergistically on aluminum exposure was analyzed in terms of cell viability, apoptosis, necrosis, and cytokine release. As a result, the obtained data showed that the % cell viability of different concentrations of piperine, curcumin and combined use of them on aluminum-induced damage in astrocyte cells were significantly higher in both the protective and therapeutic effect groups compared to the negative control. At the same time, a decrease in the number of apoptotic and necrotic cells was observed as a result of both Acridine orange and propidium iodide and TUNEL staining. The results of IL-6 and TGF-ß cytokine analysis also showed a decrease, which showed the importance of the synergistic effect of these two compounds. Considering all these results, it is the first time in the literature that the bioavailability-enhancing feature of piperine on curcumin has been demonstrated in terms of aluminum damage in astrocyte cells.
Prevalence and associated factors of depression in Sri Lanka: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alwis Inosha , Baminiwatta Anuradha , Chandradasa Miyuru
Published: August 2022

Purpose
Epidemiological data on depression are required to inform policies and service planning in mental health in Sri Lanka. This review aimed to synthesise data from existing studies to calculate the pooled prevalence of depression in Sri Lanka, to assess its variability across subgroups, and to identify associated factors within each subgroup.
Methods
PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Science Direct, Google Scholar and local journals were searched to identify peer-reviewed studies reporting the prevalence of depression among non-clinical adult, young, older, and maternal populations in Sri Lanka. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to calculate pooled prevalence estimates. Subgroup, sensitivity and moderator analyses were performed. A qualitative synthesis of factors associated with depression was conducted.
Results
A total of 26 studies representing a total of 49217 participants were included. Overall, the pooled prevalence of depression was 20.3% (95% CI: 14.8–27.2%). Among subpopulations, the highest prevalence was reported among young persons (41%); the rates in adults, older persons and maternal populations were 8.7%, 18.4% and 19.7%, respectively. Prevalence estimates were higher when they were based on screening instruments (22.8%) compared to diagnostic interviews (4.3%).A high degree of heterogeneity (I2 = 99.2) was observed. A qualitative synthesis of factors associated with depression, including individual attributes and behaviours, socio-economic circumstances, and broader environmental factors, is reported for each age group.
Conclusion
Approximately one-fifth of the population was detected to have depression. Notable variations in prevalence were observed across age groups. Heterogeneity of studies limits the inferences drawn from this review.
Association of smoking with survival of patients with brain metastasis of lung cancer
Authors: Yu Jiayi , Zhang Yu , Liu Zheran , He Yan , Pei Yiyan , Zhang Renjie , Peng Xingchen , Fang Fang
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Smoking was associated with increased mortality in cancer patients. However, there is limited data on the impact of smoking on the survival of patients with brain metastases. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether smoking was associated with survival and whether smoking cessation was beneficial to these patients.Methods: This study used the lung cancer with brain metastasis cohort of West China Hospital of Sichuan University from 2013 to 2021. Patients were stratified according to smoking history; the distribution, clinical characteristics, and survival data of each group were estimated. Kaplan Meier analysis and risk analysis were performed for the survival endpoint. Results: Of the 2647 patients included in the analysis, the median age was 57.8 years, and 55.4% were men. Among them, 67.1% had no smoking history, 18.9% still smoked, and 14% reported quitting smoking. Compared with never smokers, current smokers (HR, 1.512 [95% CI, 1.35 to 1.694], P < 0.01) and former smokers (HR, 1.318 [95% CI, 1.16 to 1.498], P < 0.01) had an increased risk of death. However, quitting smoking was not associated with improved survival (HR, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.77 to 1.04], P=0.16). The overall survival increased with the increase of smoking cessation years. Conclusion: In lung cancer patients with brain metastases, smoking was associated with an increased risk of death, but quitting smoking was not associated with improved survival.