bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of thermosonication conditions for critical quality parameters of watermelon juice using response surface methodology
Authors: Maoto Makaepea M. , Jideani Afam I. O. , Maoto Makaepea Mossa , Jideani Afam I O
Published: July 2023

The topical consumer interest for natural, healthier, safer and nutritinal juice, has intrigued the search for innovative technologies that can minimize product degradation. In this regard, thermosonication has been proposed as a potential processing technology that can inactivate microorganisms, and enzymes and produce fresh-like products. In line with this, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) juice is one of the common fruit juices that is desired by consumers due to its desirable color, pleasant odor, sweet taste and low calories. However, this fruit juice is highly perishable and is thermo-sensitive, it degrades quickly under thermal processing. Therefore, this study aimed to identify optimal thermosonication processing conditions to retain the critical quality parameters of watermelon juice. Response surface methodology (RSM) employing a central composite design was used to determine the effects of temperature (25–52ºC), processing time (2–10 min) and amplitude level (24–60 µm) to retain the quality parameters (total polyphenolic content, lycopene, β-carotene and ascorbic acid) of watermelon juice. The optimum conditions obtained were 125ºC, 2 min, and 24 µm and were experimentally validated. These conditions resulted in lycopene of 7.4 mg/100 g, β-carotene of 0.15 mg/100 g, ascorbic acid of 2.86 mg/100 g and total polyphenolic content of 21.32 mg/100 mg/ GAE with desirability of 0.81. The proposed model was adequate (p < 0.0001) with a satisfactory determination coefficient (R2) less than 0.8 for all phytochemicals. The proposed conditions provided better preservation of the quality characteristics of watermelon juice.
Establishment and Application of the BRP Prognosis Model for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyun , Feng Zhichao , Pan Boyu , Liu Qingxiang , Han Yuanyuan , Zou Lijun , Rong Pengfei , Meng Jie
Published: July 2023

Background
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common idiopathic interstitial lung disease, with varying disease progression and prognosis. Clinical models to accurately evaluate the prognosis of IPF are currently lacking.
Objective
To train and validate a prediction model for transplant-free survival (TFS) of IPF based on the clinical and radiological information.
Methods
A multicenter prognostic study was conducted, involving 166 IPF patients followed up for three years. The end point of follow-up was death or lung transplantation, and the outcome indicator was TFS. The clinical information, lung function tests, and chest computed tomography (CT) scans were collected. Body composition quantification on CT was performed using 3D Slicer software. Risk factors in Blood routine examination-Radiology-Pulmonary function (BRP) were identified by Cox regression, and were utilized to construct the “BRP Prognosis Model”. The performance of the BRP model and the gender-age-physiologic variables (GAP) was compared using time-ROC curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Kaplan-Meier and Log-rank tests were used for risk stratification based on individual BRP scores. Furthermore, the Spearman correlation analysis was utilized to explore the correlation between body composition, lung function and serum inflammatory cytokines.
Results
Our study identified neutrophil percentage༞68.3%, pericardial adipose tissue (PAT)༞94.91 cm3, pectoralis muscle radiodensity (PMD) ≤ 36.24 HU, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide/alveolar ventilation (DLCO/VA) ≤ 56.03%, and maximum vital capacity (VCmax)༜90.5% as independent risk factors for poorer TFS among patients with IPF. We constructed BRP model, which showed superior accuracy, discrimination, and clinical practicability to GAP model. Median TFS differed significantly among patients at different risk levels identified by the BRP model (low-risk: TFS > 3 years; intermediate-risk: TFS = 2–3 years; high-risk: TFS ≈ 1 year). Additionally, serum proinflammatory markers were positively correlated with visceral fat volume and infiltration, and negatively correlated with lung function indicators.
Conclusion
In this study, the BRP prognostic model of IPF was successfully constructed, and internally and externally validated. Compared with the most commonly used GAP, the BRP model had better performance and generalization with easily obtainable indicators. The BRP model is suitable for clinical promotion.
Cardiorenal effects of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in patients with diabetic and non-diabetic chronic kidney disease: A system review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Lingyan , Zhang Ying , Huang Zijia , Xu Ting , Li Yuwen
Published: July 2023

Purpose
To estimate the cardiorenal benefits and safety outcomes of SGLT-2 inhibitors in chronic kidney disease patients with and without diabetes.
Methods
We did a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled, cardiovascular and kidney outcome trials of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library database were searched for eligible studies published up to March 10, 2023. The RoB 2.0 tool was utilized to assess the bias risk of the enrolled trials. Review Manager (version 5.3) was used for meta‐analysis.
Results
Four RCTs encompassing 21,031 participants with CKD were enrolled, and 4,967 of whom had no history of diabetes at randomization. Pooled analyses demonstrated that SGLT-2 inhibitors were associated with reduced risk of cardiorenal outcomes in CKD patients with diabetes (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.64–0.77, p < 0.001), and reduced the risk of progression of nephropathy in CKD patients without diabetes (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.49–0.99, p = 0.04).
Conclusions
Current evidences suggest that SGLT-2 inhibitors reduce the cardiorenal risk in CKD patients with diabetes, and nephroprotective effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors were identified in CKD patients without diabetes.
Protocol registration:
This review is registered in prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO CRD42023404821).
The Importance of Seismic Microzonation under the Threat of an Earthquake of the North Anatolian Fault in Nilüfer, Bursa, Turkey
Authors: Bıçakcı Güldane Boyraz , Özçep Ferhat , Karabulut Savaş , Cengiz Mualla
Published: July 2023

The district of Nilüfer experienced the most recent urbanization among the central districts of Bursa in South Marmara with completion of rapid construction. Since 358 BC, there were many destructive earthquakes on the branches of the North Anatolian Fault reported which caused great damage in the city of Bursa and cost many lives. Besides some studies conducted to define the soil behaviour in the vicinity of Bursa, the seismic hazard of Nilüfer and the surrounding region remains a problem. In this study, an earthquake hazard analysis was first conducted and the peak ground acceleration (PGA) values were determined with respect to an expected earthquake. In the next step, MASW (Multi-Channel Analysis of Surfave Wave) measurements were conducted at 54 points in 28 neighborhoods of Nilüfer district. Soil mechanical parameters were determined at 11 boroholes, which were calculated as the probability of liquefaction. It was found that almost half of the study area suffers from low damage considering only the vulnerability index (Kg) index, which depends on the site effect. Therefore, in addition to the Kg values, we created a microzonation map using the results by soil liquefaction, settlement, changes of ground water level and the average values of spectral acceleration. The results showed four different areas with low to high damage. Altınşehir, Hippodrome, Ürünlü and Alaaddinbey, Ertuğrul, 29 Ekim, 23 Nisan, Ahmetyesevi and Minareliçavuş districts also have high risk of damage levels that could not be quantified by Kg index alone. The results of this study clearly show that considering the Kg index, which depends only on the local site effect, may lead to inadequate damage values.
An analysis and visualization of postherpetic neuralgia research between 1985 and 2022 using scientometrics
Authors: Cao Xueqin , Zhang Mi , Zhang Caixia , Jiao Bo , Zheng Hua , Zhang Xianwei
Published: July 2023

Background This study aimed to highlight the status of research on PHN between 1985 and 2022 through a bibliometric analysis and a historical review. Methods The Web of Science database was searched, and 3,386 relevant articles were included in the study. Bibliometric analysis was used to review the field distribution, regional distribution, and research topic evolution. Results Trends identified in the literature indicate that research on PHN is increasing globally. The United States is the leading country, and the University of California system is the leading institution in terms of publications. Glaxosmithkline had the highest number of citation bursts, indicating its important role in PHN research and drug development. PHN is primarily associated with older age and immunosuppression. Treatment mainly involves pharmacological, nonpharmacological, and interventional treatments, although data supporting the use of physical interventions are lacking. The main psychophysiological effects experienced by patients with PHN are anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Additionally, PHN results in a significant economic burden. Two vaccines have been approved for herpes zoster. Finally, animal models of PHN are inadequate. Conclusions The findings of this study provide valuable information for future research on PHN, e.g., research is needed on the mechanism of PHN, the development of suitable animal models, and the long-term effects of interventional treatment.
Policy and Market Forces Delay Inevitable Real Estate Price Declines on the Coast
Authors: Smith Martin , McNamara Dylan , Williams Zachary , Gopalakrishnan Sathya , Landry Craig
Published: July 2023

Despite increasing risks from sea-level rise (SLR) and storms, coastal communities continue to attract wealthier residents, and coastal property values continue to rise. To understand this seeming paradox and explore policy responses, we develop the Coastal Home Ownership Model (C-HOM) and analyze the long-term evolution of coastal real estate markets. C-HOM incorporates changing physical attributes of the coast, economic values of these attributes, and dynamic risks associated with storms and flooding. Resident owners, renters, and non-resident investors jointly determine coastal property values and the policy choices that influence the physical evolution of the coast. In the coupled system, we find that subsidies for coastal management, such as beach nourishment, tax advantages for high-income property owners, and stable or increasing property values outside the coastal zone all dampen the effects of SLR on coastal property values. The effects, however, are temporary and only delay precipitous declines as total inundation approaches. By removing subsidies, prices would more accurately reflect risks from SLR but also trigger more coastal gentrification, as wealthier owners enter the market and self-finance nourishment. Our results suggest a policy tradeoff between slowing demographic transitions in coastal communities and allowing property markets to adjust smoothly to risks from climate change.
Improving Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Classification Performance With Latent Diffusion Models
Authors: Hardy Romain , Mitchell Ryan , Klepich Joe , Hall Steve , Villareal Jericho , Ilin Cornelia
Published: July 2023

Integrating deep learning with clinical expertise holds great potential for addressing healthcare challenges and empowering medical professionals with improved diagnostic tools. However, the need for annotated medical images is often an obstacle to leveraging the full power of machine learning models. Our research demonstrates that by combining synthetic images, generated using diffusion models, with real images, we can enhance nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) classification performance. We evaluate the quality of the synthetic images by comparing two metrics: Inception Score (IS) and Fréchet Inception Distance (FID), computed on diffusion-generated images and generative adversarial networks (GANs)-generated images. Our results show superior performance for the diffusion-generated images, with a maximum IS score of 1.90 compared to 1.67 for GANs, and a minimum FID score of 69.45 compared to 99.53 for GANs. Utilizing a partially frozen CNN backbone (EfficientNet v1), our synthetic augmentation method achieves a maximum image-level ROC AUC of 0.904 on a NAFLD prediction task.
BAFF, but not APRIL, initiates Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia by inducing tumor-promoting genes rather than cell survival.
Authors: Mackay Fabienne , Ullah Md Ashik , Garcillán Beatriz , Whitlock Eden , Figgett William , Infantino Simona , Eslami Mahya , Yang SiLing , Rahman M Arifur , Sheng Yong , Weber Nicholas , Schneider Pascal , Tam Constantine , Mackay Fabienne
Published: July 2023

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults, characterized by the expansion of CD19+ CD5+ B cells. The origin of CLL remains debated, with one model suggesting that CLL cells carrying mutations in the variable regions of immunoglobulin are derived from post-germinal center B cells, whereas unmutated CLL cells originate from CD5+ mature B cell precursors. The cytokines BAFF and APRIL each play a significant role in CLL cell survival and accumulation, but their involvement in disease initiation is unclear. Using the TCL1-transgenic (Tg) model, we have demonstrated that BAFF, but not, APRIL is needed for the initiation and dissemination of CLL. In the absence of BAFF or its receptor BAFF-R, expression of the TCL1 transgene increases CLL cell numbers in the peritoneal cavity but does not allow dissemination into the periphery. BAFF binding to BAFF-R is not required for the survival of peritoneal CLL cells but for the expression of tumor-promoting genes, likely allowing peritoneal CLL cells to disseminate to other sites to drive CLL. Our findings unveil BAFF as an unrecognized tumor-promoting cytokine in CLL. Combining current CLL therapies with BAFF inhibition may offer dual benefits: reducing peripheral tumor burden and suppressing transformed CLL cell output.
Physical activity in liver transplant recipients: a large multicenter study
Authors: Gitto Stefano , Golfieri Lucia , Gabrielli Filippo , Falcini Margherita , Sofi Francesco , Tamè Maria Rosa , De Maria Nicola , Marzi Luca , Mega Andrea , Valente Giovanna , Borghi Alberto , Forte Paolo , Cescon Matteo , Benedetto Fabrizio Di , Andreone Pietro , Petranelli Marco , Morelli Maria Cristina , De Simone Paolo , Lau Chloe , Stefani Laura , Vizzutti Francesco , Chiesi Francesca , Marra Fabio , GROUP MEDITRA RESEARCH
Published: July 2023

Aim
Healthy lifestyle and appropriate diet are of critical importance after liver transplant (LT). The present study was undertaken to analyse the impact of physical activity in a large cohort of LT recipients.
Methods
Clinically stable LT recipients were enrolled between June and September 2021. Patients completed a composite questionnaire about physical activity, adherence to Mediterranean Diet (MD), quality of life (QoL), and employment. Correlations were analysed using the Pearson coefficients while different subgroups were compared by t-test for independent samples or ANOVAs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to find predictors of inactivity.
Results
We enrolled 511 subjects (71% males, mean age 63 ± 10.8 yrs). One hundred and ninety-three patients reported high level of physical activity, 197 a minimal activity and 121 declared insufficient activity. Among these latter, 29 subjects were totally inactive. Considering the 482 LT recipients performing some kind of physical activity, almost all reported a low-quality, non-structured activity. At multivariate analysis, time from LT (odds ratio 0.94, 95% CI 0.89–0.99, p = 0.017), sedentary lifestyle (odds ratio 0.99, 95% CI 0.19–0.81, p = 0.012), low adherence to MD (odds ratio 1.22, 95% CI 1.01–1.48, p = 0.049), and low level of QoL (physical dimension) (odds ratio 1.13, 95% CI 1.08–1.17, p < 0.001), were independently associated with total inactivity.
Conclusions
A large portion of LT recipients report an insufficient level of physical activity or are wholly inactive. Inactivity increases with time from LT, and was strongly associated with suboptimal diet and low QoL.
Screening for Porcine Deltacoronavirus in Human Serum Samples Via a Luminescent Immunoprecipitation System
Authors: Boley Patricia A. , Lemon Grace , Kenney Scott
Published: July 2023

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an emerged coronaviral disease of swine circulating globally. The ability of PDCoV to infect avian and mammalian species and its recognized zoonotic capabilities make it an important pathogen to monitor for spread in humans. Here we present a pilot study in which 200 human serum samples from Midwest and East coast sites in the United States (U.S.) were screened utilizing a luminescent immunoprecipitation system. All samples tested negative for reactivity to PDCoV proteins suggesting that exposure to PDCoV is not yet widespread. Increased targeted serological surveys are needed to define the current incidence rates of PDCoV in humans
Integrative genomic analysis reveals cancer-associated mutations at the diagnosis of cancer in patients with ocular tumors
Authors: Zhu Fengjiao , Wang Pengpeng , Zhang Zhiyuan , Yao Chunlei , Ii Jie , Ye Juan , Wu Jian
Published: July 2023

The genomic events associated with poor outcomes in other ocular tumors are poorly understood, except for the in-depth study of the retinoblastoma Rb gene. We investigated 48 patients with ocular tumors, using three types of samples - cancerous tissue, paraneoplastic tissue, and peripheral blood. We employed combined exome and transcriptome analysis to search for high-frequency mutated genes and susceptibility genes in ocular tumors. Our exon sequencing analysis identified four clear causative genes (TP53, PTCH1, SMO, BAP1), most of which were associated with basal cell carcinoma. Two mutations in BAP1 were clearly associated with choroidal melanoma, and no clear causative loci were found in other cancer types. Our susceptibility gene analysis identified hotspot genes such as RUNX1, APC, IDH2, and BRCA2. High-frequency gene analysis identified TP53, TTN, and MUC16 genes, among others. Transcriptome analysis identified TOP2A and ZWINT genes were upregulated in all samples, while CFD, ELANE, HBA1, and HBB were downregulated. Our KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and transcriptional misregulation in cancer may be involved in the process of ocular tumorigenesis. We found that TP53 is clearly involved in ocular tumorigenesis, especially in basal cell carcinoma, and its PI3K-Akt signaling pathway may be an essential pathway involved in ocular tumorigenesis. Additionally, RUNX1, SMO, TOP2A, and ZWINT are highly likely to be involved in ocular tumorigenesis, and subsequent functional experiments can be carried out to verify the mechanisms of these genes in regulating tumorigenesis.
Photocatalytic performance of CeO2 , SnO2 nanoparticles catalysed by Methylene Blue (MB) dye degradation
Authors: G Ramanathan , N Srinivasan @ Arunsankar , K Syed Suraj Babu , A Syed Mohammed Mujaheer , R Murali K , S Sakthiya
Published: July 2023

Cerium oxide (CeO2), Tin oxide (SnO2) nanoparticle powders were synthesized by two different methods one is co-precipitation method using the leaf of Artemisia pallens (cerium (III) nitrate ) and another one is sol gel Acrylamide route. The prepared CeO2 powders and SnO2 were characterized by various analysis tools. The powder X-ray diffraction analysis results revealed that the sample powder was crystalline with single phase cubic structure. The broad peaks show the nanosized crystal and also crystallite size increase with temperature due to the agglomeration of individual particles. The variation in particle size, lattice strain, stress and energy density calculated by various method such as Debye’s Scherer, Monshi method and Williamson-Hall method. The line broadening of CeO2 nanoparticles was due to the small crystallite size and lattice strain. This broadening was analyzed by the Scherer formula, modified forms of W-H analysis. This variation in particle size, lattice strain, stress and energy density reveals that non uniform strains in the particles. This non uniform strain was increased when the particle size was increased. CeO2 ultrafine nanopowder with spherical particles and an average size between 4 and 16 nm was discovered using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the High Resolution TEM pattern, the average distance between two consecutive fringes is 0.31 nm. Photocatalytic degradation of MB catalysed by as synthesized CeO2 nanoparticles and Tin oxide nanoparticles. From the observation to measure the pseudo first order rate constant of the MB dye were computed for two different catalyst Nps. The removal efficiency of MB dye using ceria which indicate has higher efficiency (95%) compared to Tin oxide catalysts (93%) within 180 min 19mg/l cerium oxide caused the most deterioration. The obtained results indicate the effect of photogenerated holes in the degradation mechanism of the dye. Cerium oxide material was analyzed using BET surface analysis methodologies while keeping in mind the photocatalytic activity efficiency results. A Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) technique is very important surface analysis technique for the measurement of the specific surface area of materials. From this techniques surface area and pores sizes are directly measured at different temperature. The pores diameter varies from 3 to 9 nm and the average diameter of pores did not exceed 10 nm. As the calcinations temperature increased, the average pore size increased from 3.3 to 9.1 nm.
Influence of light absorption rate on the astaxanthin production by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis during nitrogen starvation
Authors: SAMHAT Khadija , KAZBAR Antoinette , TAKACHE Hosni , ISMAIL Ali , PRUVOST Jeremy
Published: July 2023

Large amounts of astaxanthin (about 4% DW) can be produced under nitrogen starvation of Haematococcus pluvialis in photobioreactors (PBRs) exposed to high light to induce a light stress. However, in PBR, the large biomass concentration usually achieved leads to strong light attenuation conditions, which makes complex the analysis of this “light stress”. This study aims then to elucidate the role of light transfer in astaxanthin cell content and productivity from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis during nitrogen starvation.
In order to obtain several light attenuation conditions in the culture volume, H. pluvialis was cultivated in a flat-panel PBR in sudden nitrogen starvation conditions with different initial biomass concentrations (Cx0) of 0.21, 0.52, 1.39 and 2.21 kg m− 3 in batch mode and exposed to an incident photons flux density (PFD) of 250 µmolhν m− 2 s− 1. First, spectral mass absorption cross-sections of H. pluvialis were measured at different times during nitrogen starvation. They were then used to relate the mean rate of photons absorption (MRPA) to the astaxanthin productivity and cell content.
A minimum initial MRPA of 7000 µmolhν kgx−1 s− 1 was found necessary at the onset of nitrogen starvation to trigger large accumulation of astaxanthin in H. pluvialis cells, up to 3.21% DW. The results also demonstrated the existence of a relation between the MRPA and the daily astaxanthin productivity of H. pluvialis cultures, introducing then the MRPA as a physical quantity of interest for a rational optimization of the light culture conditions in PBRs.
Study on bending performance of prefabricated glulam-cross laminated timber composite floor with screw connections
Authors: Du Hao , Chen Gang , Fu Weijie , Hu Xiamin
Published: July 2023

The glulam-cross laminated timber (CLT) composite floor is a type of prefabricated composite floor that integrates glulam beams and CLT slab into a unified structure using shear connectors. To investigate the bending performance of the glulam-CLT composite floor, the bending test was conducted on a full-scale composite floor under static load. The study comprehensively analyzed the failure mechanism, load-deflection behavior, interface slip and strain distribution of the glulam-CLT composite floor. The test results of the composite floor indicated that the failure mode was tensile fracture of the wood beam at the bottom. As the load increased, the relative slips extended towards the mid-span, and the rate of increase in relative slip gradually increased, which could be attributed to the decrease in shear stiffness of the screw connections and the overall composite action. In the earlyloading phase, the strain distribution of the composite section satisfied the assumption of a plane section. However, the strain distribution deviated from this assumption with the increased load due to the relative slips between the glulam beam and CLT flange. To calculate the bending performance of the composite floor, the M-shaped section of the glulam-CLT composite floor was simplified as T-section composite beams. The linear-elastic method for determining the flexural rigidity and ultimate bearing capacity of the glulam-CLT composite floors was proved to be accurate and reliable.
Navigating the Challenges of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery: A Risk Analysis and Learning Curve Evaluation
Authors: Papadopoulos Nestoras , Ntinopoulos Vasileios , Dushaj Stak , Häussler Achim , Odavic Dragan , Biefer Hector Rodríguez Cetina , Dzemali Omer
Published: July 2023

Background This study aimed to report on the risk analysis and learning curve analysis of a minimally invasive mitral valve surgery program performed through a right mini-thoracotomy at a single institution.Methods From January 2013 through December 2019, we retrospectively reviewed 266 patients who underwent minimally invasive mitral valve surgery. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used for the adverse event outcome. Distribution over time of perioperative complications, defined as clinical endpoints in the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) consensus document, as well as CUSUM charts for assessment of cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamping duration over time, has been performed for learning curve assessment.Results Overall incidences of postoperative stroke (1.1%), myocardial infarction (1.1%), and thirty-day mortality (1.5%) were low. The mitral valve reconstruction rate in our series counted 95%. Multivariable analysis revealed that concomitant tricuspid valve surgery (OR:4.44;95%CI:1.61–11.80;p = 0.003) was significantly associated with adverse event outcomes. Despite a trend towards adverse event outcomes in patients with preexisting active mitral valve endocarditis (OR:2.69;95%CI:0.81–7.87;p = 0.082), mitral valve pathology did not significantly impact postoperative morbidity and mortality. Distribution over time of perioperative complications, defined as clinical endpoints in the VARC-2 consensus document, showed a trend towards an improved complication rate after the initial 65 to 100 procedures.Conclusions Mitral valve surgery via right-sided mini-thoracotomy can be implemented safely with low perioperative morbidity and mortality rates. Careful patient selection regarding isolated mitral valve surgery in the presence of degenerative mitral valve disease may represent a significant safety issue during the learning curve.Trial Registration The cantonal ethics commission of Zurich approved the study (registration ID 2020 − 00752, date of approval 24 April 2020).
Protocol for a feasibility trial (EXPRESS-C-GVHD) for an expressive helping intervention within a support group for cutaneous graft-versus-host-disease
Authors: Kaundinya Trisha , Kye Yae , El-Behaedi Salma E. , Choi Jennifer N.
Published: July 2023

Background
Cutaneous graft-versus-host disease (cuGVHD) is a complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation that presents with varying severity and can significantly affect one’s quality of life (QOL). No trials have yet tested nonpharmacologic interventions to improve the QOL of patients with cuGVHD. The primary objective of the Expressive Helping in Support Groups for Cutaneous GVHD (EXPRESS-C-GVHD) Trial is to evaluate the effect of a support group that employs expressive writing on cutaneous and systemic GVHD symptoms, general distress, and QOL immediately after the intervention. Secondary objectives include evaluating the impact of the intervention on QOL at 1 month post intervention, as well as willingness to participate, compliance, feasibility, and satisfaction.
Methods
The EXPRESS-C-GVHD Trial will include patients with chronic cuGVHD who are at least 18 years old and able to use a writing utensil, have access to Zoom, an online video conference platform, and attend all four live support group sessions. Subjects will be recruited from the Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL and will participate in a 4-week program via Zoom. Program activities will be 1 hour long and consist of 40 minutes of participant-led verbal reflection and discussion in a group setting in response to prompts, and 20 minutes of expressive writing. Participants will fill out a baseline willingness survey, follow-up surveys after every session, and post-intervention surveys at 2 weeks and 1 month after intervention.
Discussion
The EXPRESS-C-GVHD Trial is a pilot trial and will assess whether a Zoom-based expressive writing intervention within the framework of a support group is feasible and can improve QOL outcomes among individuals with cuGVHD.
Trial Registration
The trial is registered under number NCT05694832
Functional physical training improves fitness and cognitive development in 4~5 years old children
Authors: Hao Lei , Fan Yongzhao , Zhang Xiaojuan , Rong Xiangjiang , Sun Youping , Liu Kun
Published: July 2023

Development of physical and cognitive function is very critical in 4–5 years children. It has been addressed in this research if the specific functional training with or without cognitive training can be effective on improving fitness and cognitive development in 4–5 years preschool children. A total of 126 preschool children in the 4–5 age range were selected as participants and randomly assigned to one of four groups: the control group (C), the physical function training group (P), the cognitive training group (CT), and the physical function training combined with cognitive training group (PCT). The results revealed significant pre/post differences in body height and weight among all four groups of children. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in physical fitness between the C group and the CT group after the intervention. However, the children in the P group and the PCT group showed significant improvements in three indicators including standing long jump, continuous jump, and 10-meter shuttle running. Additionally, the children in P group, CT group, and the PCT group demonstrated significant improvement in simple reaction time, attention, and spatial memory. No significant cognitive improvement was found in C group. Functional physical training with or without cognitive intervention can promote both physical fitness and cognitive development in children aged 4–5 years. Cognitive training alone can significantly improve cognitive function but not physical. Therefore, functional physical training can be used alone to improve the physical and cognitive abilities for aged 4–5 years old children.
Mixed cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium: a population-based study
Authors: Lu Hongdi , Wang Junfeng , Wei Huafang , Han Dan , Wang Sheng
Published: July 2023

Background Mixed cell adenocarcinoma of endometrium (MCAE) is a rare histological subtype of endometrial carcinoma. However, there are limited studies investigating the prognostic factors of MCAE. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the independent predictors of MCEA and build a prognostic nomogram for the overall survival (OS) of MCAE patients. Methods Data on MCAE patients were screened from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The MCAE prognosis in patients with Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage I/II and stage III/IV was explored. Next, the patients in stage I/II and stage III/IV were assigned into training and validation cohorts in the ratio of 7:3, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was used to determine the independent risk factors for the OS, and nomograms were constructed based on these factors. The concordance index (C-index) and calibration plots were established to assess the discrimination ability and accuracy of the nomograms. Finally, the decision curve analysis (DCA), net reclassification index (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were calculated to compare performance between the nomogram and the traditional FIGO stage model. Results A total of 6650 patients were enrolled in our study, among which 4635 patients were in stage I/II and 2015 in stage III/IV. Age, marital status, race, FIGO stage, and surgery were identified as the independent predictors for patients in FIGO stage I/II, while age, marital status, race, FIGO stage, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy for patients in stage III/IV (p < 0.05). NomogramA for stage I/II and nomogramB for stage III/IV were constructed based on the independent predictors. The C-indexes in nomogramA were 0.730 (95%CI: 0.711 ~ 0.749) and 0.715 (95%CI: 0.685 ~ 0.745) for the training and validation cohorts, and 0.720 (95%CI: 0.702 ~ 0.738) and 0.724 (95%CI: 0.697 ~ 0.751) in nomogramB, respectively. Calibration curves for both nomograms followed the diagonal line, implying an excellent consistency between the predicted and actual survival. In addition, the DCA revealed that nomograms had a higher clinical benefit compared to the FIGO stages. In stage I/II patients, the NRI and IDI for 3, 5, and 10 years were more than 30% and 10%, respectively (p < 0.001). In stage III/IV patients, the NRI and IDI values were more than 20% and 6%, respectively (p < 0.001). Both NRI and IDI values were further tested in the validation cohort. Overall, the predictive performance of nomogramA and nomogramB was higher compared to the traditional FIGO stage model. Conclusions The predictive nomograms for MCAE patients in FIGO stage I/II and stage III/IV constructed and validated in this study could offer an effective tool for evaluating the treatment outcome in MCAE patients.
Breastfeeding of Indigenous Infants From a Small Rural Cohort in Australia
Authors: Onifade Oyepeju , Schumacher Tracy , Rae Kym , Pringle Kirsty , Committee Gomeroi Gaaynggal Advisory
Published: July 2023

Background
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during an infant’s first six months of life as it adequately meets the nutritional needs of the infant. The aim of this study was to describe the intention to breastfeed, and breastfeeding trends of Indigenous participants in the Gomeroi Gaaynggal cohort.
Methods
The Gomeroi Gaaynggal study was a longitudinal cohort of Indigenous mother-child dyads. Mothers were recruited to the study by Indigenous research assistants. Mother’s intention to breastfeed and previous breastfeeding history were obtained from hospital antenatal records. Infant breastfeeding details were obtained at approximately 3-, 6-, 9-,12- and 24-month visits. Data were analysed descriptively.
Results
Obstetric details were obtained from a total of 250 mothers. Breastfeeding data were available for 133 infants and provided 302 entries between 3- and 24-months of age. Most of the mothers (72%) indicated an intention to breastfeed their infants exclusively after delivery. Approximately 84% of infants received some form of breastfeeding. Half of the infants (50%) ceased breastfeeding by approximately 50 days. Only 15% of mothers reported having trouble with breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Findings from this study are consistent with breastfeeding trends among other Australian populations. Further investigations are required to identify factors contributing to the short breastfeeding duration observed in this cohort.
Numerical Solution for nonlinear Volterra-Fredholm Integro-Differential Equations using Adomian and Modified Adomian Decomposition Method
Authors: Ansari Asiya , Ahmad Najmuddin
Published: July 2023

In this article, the Adomian Decomposition Method (ADM) and Modified Adomian Decomposition Method (MADM) are introduced to provide the approximate solutions for Volterra-Fredholm Integro-differential equations. Moreover, we prove the existence and uniqueness results and convergence of the solutions. To arrive at that conclusion, an algorithm is used. Additionally, examples of deterministic models in graphs and tables are used to perform the convergence analysis of the proposed technique.
GNF-7, a novel FLT3 inhibitor, overcomes drug resistance for the treatment of FLT3‑ITD acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Xiao Xinhua , Wang Peihong , Zhang Weina , Wang Jiayi , Cai Mansi , Jiang Hua , Wu Yingli , Shan Huizhuang
Published: July 2023

Background
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD) mutation accounts for a large proportion of AML patients and diagnosed with dismay prognosis. Although the prognosis of FLT3-ITD AML has been greatly improved, the drug resistance frequently occurred in the treatment of FLT3 target drugs. GNF-7, a multitargeted kinase inhibitor, which provided a novel therapeutic strategy for overriding leukemia. In this study, we explored the antitumor activity of GNF-7 against FLT3-ITD and clinically-relevant drug resistance in FLT3 mutant AML.
Methods
Growth inhibitory assays were performed in AML cell lines and Ba/F3 cells expressing various FLT3 mutants to evaluate the antitumor activity of GNF-7 in vitro. Western blotting was used to examine the activity of FLT3 and its downstream pathways. Molecular docking was performed to predict the binding sites of FLT3 to GNF-7. The survival benefit of GNF-7 in vivo was assessed in mouse models of transformed Ba/F3 cells harboring FLT3-ITD and FLT3-ITD/F691L mutation. Primary patient samples and a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model were also used to determine the efficacy of GNF-7.
Results
GNF-7 inhibited the cell proliferation of Ba/F3 cells expressing FLT3-ITD and exhibited potently anti-leukemia activity on primary FLT3-ITD AML samples. Moreover, GNF-7 could bind to FLT3 protein and inhibit the phosphorylation of downstream effectors in the FLT3 signaling pathways. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that GNF-7 exhibited a potent inhibitory activity against FLT3-ITD/F691L that confers resistant to quizartinib (AC220) or gilteritinib. Importantly, GNF-7 showed potent cytotoxic effect on leukemic stem cells, significantly extend the survival of PDX model and exhibited similar therapy effect compared with gilteritinib.
Conclusions
Our results show that GNF-7 is a potent FLT3-ITD inhibitor and may become a promising lead compound applied for treating some of the clinically drug resistant patients.
Cell-surface photochemistry mediated calcium overload for synergistic tumor therapy
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Wei , Shen Qingmei , Lan Lan , Guan Cuiping , Xu Xinchang , Li Weishuo , Du Yongzhong
Published: July 2023

Calcium (Ca2+) is essential for mitochondrial homeostasis and function coordination, particularly in cancer cells that metabolize frequently to sustain their growth. Photochemistry mediated calcium overload has attracted lots of attention as an effective way to achieve tumor suppression. Herein, we developed a cell-surface photochemistry to synergistically induce calcium overload and thus tumor suppression. Specially, we synthesized a polymer bearing photo-crosslinking cinnamate groups (CA) and anti-CD20 aptamers (Apt), which was further introduced onto upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) (AH(CA)@UCNP). Then the photosensitizer, Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) was loaded onto AH(CA)@UCNP to give AH(CA)@UCNP-PpIX. The interaction between CD20 receptors and anti-CD20 aptamers allowed AH(CA)@UCNP-PpIX to accurately attach onto the Raji cell surface after an intravenous injection. Following the local application of a 980 nm NIR laser, the UCNP moiety was able to capture the NIR light and convert it into ultraviolet (UV) light, resulting in the crosslinking of CA, further stimulating the clustering of CD20 receptors and causing Ca2+ influx. Additionally, the UV light could simultaneously excited PpIX to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ to break down the integrity of cell membrane and lead to an influx of Ca2+. The photochemistry-mediated Ca2+ overload mediated by AH(CA)@UCNP-PpIX exhibited a synergistic and superior anti-tumor efficacy. We believe this photochemistry expands the toolbox to manipulate intracellular Ca2+ concentration and holds a great potential as an anti-tumor therapy.
The relationships between novel biomarkers Lp-PLA2 and CTRP-3 and MACCE in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus aged 40-65 years in a population-based study
Authors: Chen Yanhong , Wang Shixin , Li Jian , Fu Yu , Chen Pengsheng , Zhang Jiao , Sun Li , Zhang Rui , Li Xiaoli , Liu Lingling
Published: July 2023

Background
Adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE, mainly includes: cardiovascular or cerebrovascular death, acute coronary syndrome, coronary stent implantation, and stroke) has been confirmed as one of the major and severe complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients aged 40–65 years, and it is also reported as one of the major causes of death in T2DM patients. Accordingly, the biological markers of MACCE in T2DM patients aged 40–65 years should be found urgently.
Methods
The retrospective cohort study comprised 979 individuals of T2DM aged 40–65 years. To be specific, 116 subjects developed MACCE during the follow-up. The clinical examination and the measurement of blood laboratory parameters were performed. Age- and sex-adjusted Cox regression analysis were adopted to analyze the correlation between lipoprotein associated phospholipase (Lp-PLA2), C1q/tumor necrosis factorsassociated protein 3 (CTRP-3) and MACCE in T2DM patients aged 40–65 years. The diagnostic efficacy of the respective index was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under curve (AUC).
Results
After a median 84 months follow-up [42, (32–54)], the levels of new inflammatory factors Lp-PLA2, CTRP-3 and other traditional indices of blood lipids such as HDL-C, LDL-C and ApoB were abnormally expressed in MACCE patients of the positive group of T2DM patients aged 40–65 years. Age- and sex-adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that Lp-PLA2 (HR = 1.007, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.005–1.009, P < 0.001) and CTRP-3 (HR = 0.943, 95% CI: 0.935–0.954, P < 0.001) were independently correlated with the occurrence of MACCE. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that Lp-PLA2 and CTRP-3 could strongly predict the occurrence of MACCE (area under ROC (AUC) = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.77–0.85, P < 0.001) (AUC = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.89–0.93, P < 0.001). Combined Lp-PLA2 with CTRP-3 can predict the occurrence of MACCE well (AUC = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.93–0.96, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
The serum levels of Lp-PLA2 and CTRP-3 were abnormally expressed in MACCE patients of T2DM patients aged 40–65 years, and both of them were correlated with the occurrence of MACCE. The combined detection of Lp-PLA2 and CTRP-3 could improve the diagnostic efficacy of MACCE in T2DM patients aged 40–65 years.
Structural, thermoelectric, elastic, and electronic properties of XPdH3 (X = Li, Na, K) for hydrogen storage application: A first principle study
Authors: Shakoor Saba Abdul , Murtazaa Gulam , Raza Hafiz Hamid , Ahmad Nazir , Rehman Senia Abdur
Published: July 2023

Hydrogen storage is captivating to research interest as it has renewable, green, and clean energy properties. Therefore, continual research has been conducted to find suitable and innovative compounds that can fulfill the criteria of H2 storage. First-principles study of XPdH3 (X=Li, Na, K) compounds are conducted to examine their properties by using the full potential-linearized augmented-plane-wave (FP-LAPW) method installed in the WIEN2K code. Numerous properties of these hydrides such as electronic, structural, thermoelectric, and elastic have been studied. XPdH3 (X = Li, Na, K) compounds have Pm3m (221) space group and cubic crystal structures. The electronic properties of XPdH3 (X = Li, Na, K) compounds are metallic. All three hydrides are stable and satisfied Born stability criteria. The gravimetric H2 storage capacities of these compounds are 2.598, 2.2381, and 2.0355 wt % respectively. Moreover, the thermal properties of XPdH3 (X=Li, Na, K) are also discussed using Boltztrap software.
Alternative Approach for Deriving an Unconventional Distance Protection Algorithm
Authors: Araújo Marcos R. , Batista Edson A.
Published: July 2023

This work presents an alternative approach for deriving an unconventional distance protection algorithm suitable for long single-circuit transmission lines. Such approach is based on the application of Kirchhoff's Laws to a system modeled in the frequency domain. The electric power system considered and the steps of the protection algorithm deduction approach are detailed. As a result, the same input signals from the literature are obtained, which demonstrates the suitability of the methodology adopted to the modeled system. Thus, the extensiveness of such approach makes it a viable alternative for the deduction of new protection algorithms in electrical power systems with different configurations.
The Inadequate Oxygen Delivery Index and its Correlation with Venous Saturation in the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Loomba Rohit S. , Villarreal Enrique G. , Flores Saul , Farias Juan S. , Constas Alex
Published: July 2023

Background
Continuous monitoring software, T3, has an integrated index called the inadequate oxygen delivery index 50% (IDO2-50%) which displays a probability that the mixed venous saturation is below a user-selected threshold of 30–50%. The primary aim of this study was to determine the correlation of the IDO2-50% with a measured venous saturation. The secondary aim of this study was to characterize the hemodynamic factors that contributed to the IDO2-50%.
Methods
This single-center, retrospective study aimed to characterize the correlation between IDO2-50% and inferior vena cava (IVC) saturation. A Bayesian Pearson correlation was conducted to assess the correlation between the collected variables of interest, with a particular interest in the correlation between the IDO2-50% and the IVC saturation. Receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis to assess the ability of the IDO2-50% to identify when the venous saturation was less than 50%. Bayesian linear regression was done with the IDO2-50% (dependent variable) and other independent variables.
Results
A total of 113 datasets were collected across 15 unique patients. IDO2-50% and the IVC saturation had moderate correlation with the IVC saturation (correlation coefficient − 0.569). The IDO2-50% had a weak but significant correlation with cerebral near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) values, a weak but significant correlation with heart rate, and a moderate and significant correlation with arterial saturation. ROC analysis demonstrated that the IDO2-50% had a good ability to identify a venous saturation below 50%, with an area under the curve of 0.797, cutoff point of 24.5 with a sensitivity of 81%, specificity of 66%, positive predictive value of 44% and negative predictive value of 91%. Bayesian linear regression analysis yielded the following model: 237.82 + (1.18 x age in months) – (3.31 x arterial saturation) – (1.92 x cerebral NIRS) + (0.84 x heart rate).
Conclusion
The IDO2 index has moderate correlation with IVC saturation. It has good sensitive and negative predictive value. Cerebral NIRS does appear to correlate better with the underlying venous saturation than the IDO2 index.