bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and analysis of a desktop multi-axis hybrid milling-filament extrusion CNC machine tool for non-metallic materials
Authors: Krimpenis Agathoklis , Iordanidis Dimitrios M.
Published: January 2023

Additive Manufacturing has unlocked the ability to introduce new concepts for parts of very high complexity to the industrial landscape, which could not be manufactured with traditional manufacturing processes in a single or in a small number of steps. However, surface quality of 3D printed parts and process repeatability are low to medium, at least in an industrial context. This study proposes a new design of a fully automated multi-axis hybrid Additive and Subtractive Computerized Numerical Control machine tool for non-metallic parts, which can overcome the drawbacks of both Additive and Subtractive Numerical Manufacturing. It combines the operation a 5-axis CNC machining center with a 5-axis extrusion 3D printer with automated tool head change, which is able to make parts made of polymer and special 3D printing materials (eg. carbon fiber reinforced filaments) of high complexity which require minimal post-processing to produce the final product in the shortest possible time. The design process also includes static, dynamic and harmonic response analysis with the Finite Elements Method, so as to improve design features of the machine tool structure. Results are presented and commented on in terms of machine efficiency to cope with applied loads during operation.
Smell Dysfunction in Patients with Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome: impact on quality of life
Authors: Al-Ezzi Minan , Khan Khalid Saeed , Tappuni Anwar R
Published: January 2023

Objectives
Patients with primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS) often report smell and taste disturbance. However, a correlation between the smell impairment and mucosal dryness is not well understood. The objectives of this study were to investigate: 1) The prevalence of smell hypofunction in patients with SS. 2) The impact of smell hypofunction on the quality of life (QoL) 3) Whether the smell is corelated to xerostomia. 4) Whether the smell function is affected by taste hypofunction, disease duration, age, smoking or with self-reported neuropathy.
Methodology:
An ethically approved cross-sectional study was conducted on 65 female patients with SS and 62 sex-matched healthy controls. The smell was assessed using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test. The taste acuity was assessed using Taste Strips Test. Visual analogue scale was used for self-assessment of the smell and taste functions. Xerostomia was assessed by salivary flow rate, the clinical oral dryness score and Xerostomia Inventory. The QoL and mental health well-being were assessed using validated questionnaires.
Results
In the SS group, the smell function was impaired in 27/65 compared with controls (15/62 p < 0.05) and it did not correlate with the severity of xerostomia, taste acuity (r = 0.05, p = 0.6) or with the self-reported nasal dryness (r=-0.02, p = 0.7). In the patients group, the smell hypofunction was not correlated with disease duration (β = 0.1, 95% CI=-0.07-0.1), or smoking (β=-0.02, 95% CI=-8-7). Age was not correlated with the smell function in the patients’ group (β=-0.1, P = 0.5), but correlated significantly with the smell in the healthy participants group (β=-0.3, P = 0.02). Neuropathy affected 81.2% of the patients group. The QoL and mental health well-being were not affected by the smell hypofunction.
Conclusion
Smell hypofunction appears to be a clinical manifestation in patients with SS, but it does not seem to be associated with the severity of mucosal dryness or with taste disturbance.
Study on Genetic Stability of Wild Rubus sachalinensis Leveille Based on Tissue Rapid Propagation Techniques and ISSR-PCR Reaction System
Authors: Zhu Wenjing , Wang Yanli , Bao Baoquan , Zhao Hongmei , Zhang Ying , Zhang Jinqiao , Xu Jingguang , Zhang Ping , Yue Xin
Published: January 2023

Background： By establishing the tissue rapid propagation system, the rapid propagation and large yield were not affected by external factors, and the scarcity of wild resources was effectively solved. Analysis of test-tube plantlets and wild plantlets by ISSR molecular marker technology to detect the stability of genetic characteristics of test-tube plantlets is of great significance to the study of germplasm resources and medicinal value of Leptospiraea japonica.
Result： The regeneration system of Rubus sachalinensis Leveille was established in this paper by using axillary buds as explants in vitro culture. The results showed that axillary buds of Rubus sachalinensis Leveille were sterilized in 75% alcohol for 40 s and then in 0.1% HgCl2 for 8 min had the best effect, the pollution and the browning rate of the explants reached a rather low level, with the survival rate of 78.34%. The optimum compositions for proliferation culture, strong plant culture and root inducing were MS + 6-BA 2.0 mgL-1 + KT 0.5 mgL-1 + NAA 0.1 mgL-1 + IBA 0.05 mgL-1, MS + 6-BA 2.0 mgL-1 + KT 0.5 mgL-1 + NAA 0.1 mgL-1 + IBA 0.1 mgL-1 + GA3 0.5 mgL-1 and 1/2 MS + IBA 1.5 mgL-1. The proliferation coefficient and rooting rate on these media were up to 7.71, 6.60, and 97.04% respectively. The most suitable transplanting medium for test-tube plantlets was a mixed medium of humus, vermiculite and perlite ( 2 : 1 : 1 v / v ), and the survival rate of transplanting was 100 %. This study was conducted to acquire a large quantity of wide Rubus sachalinensis Leveille plantlets and provide a basis for large-scale production.The tissue culture seedlings were amplified by PCR with simple repeat interval.
Conclusion ：The results showed that the tissue culture seedlings had high genetic stability and low mutation rate compared with wild seedlings.This study not only opens up a new way for the tissue rapid propagation technology of L. japonica, but also lays a foundation for the maintenance of excellent traits and resource protection of L. japonica.
Musashi2 promotes the proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer by down-regulating Numb protein
Authors: Liu Gang , Zhou Jianping , Wang Xu , Gao Wei , Tang Jingtong , Dong Ming
Published: January 2023

Several studies have shown that Musashi 2 (MSI2), a posttranscriptional regulator, plays an important role in cancer development. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common form of cancer worldwide. Recent research suggests that MSI2 may be a potential biomarker for liver metastases in patients with colorectal cancer. MSI2 is yet to be studied in terms of its biological functions and mechanisms in CRC.Results Compared to paired normal pancreas, PC tissues showed higher Musashi2 protein levels (P<0.05). IHC staining revealed the expression of MSI2 in 146 patients' colorectal cancer specimens as well as in control samples. An analysis of the correlation between MSI2 expression and clinicopathological variables was performed, which showed that MSI2 is positively associated with the UICC stage (P=0.013) , lymph node metastasis (P=0.017) and Distance metastasis (P=0.037).When MSI2 is silenced, CRC cells are suppressed in proliferation and migration, while Numb knockdown can restore normal functions as a result of downregulation of MSI2. Mechanistically, a Co-immunoprecipitation experience showed that MSI2 is structurally combined with Numb and interacts with downstream proteins (PTEN and N-Cadherin) in CRC cells. In conclusion, these findings indicated that MSI2 regulates the Numb protein, contributing to the development and progression of CRC. CRC development and progression are heavily dependent on MSI2-Numb interaction.
A three-electrode dual-power-supply electrochemical pumping system for ultrafast high-energy-efficiency lithium extraction and recovery
Authors: Sasaki Kazuya , Shin-mura Kiyoto , Honda Shunsuke , Tazoe Hirofumi , Niwa Eiki
Published: January 2023

The demand for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) for use in electric vehicles, which is key to realizing a decarbonized society, is accelerating. However, the supply of Li resources has recently become a major issue, thereby necessitating the development of economical and sustainable brine/seawater-based Li extraction technologies. Additionally, resource recovery technologies for recycling Li from spent LIBs must be urgently developed to comply with the imminent mandatory requirements being considered by the European Union for selling electric vehicles. This paper presents an innovative electrochemical pumping technology based on a new cell structure for Li extraction/recovery. Using this system, high-purity Li can be collected with high energy efficiency at least 464 times faster than that via conventional electrochemical pumping, even with a commercially available Li-ion electrolyte plate. In principle, the Li collection rate of this new system can be limitlessly increased. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying the excellent performance have been elucidated.
The development of blood protein profiles in extremely preterm infants follows a stereotypic evolution pattern
Authors: Zhong Wen , Danielsson Hanna , Brusselaers Nele , Wackernagel Dirk , Sjöbom Ulrika , Sävman Karin , Pupp Ingrid , Ley David , Nilsson Anders , Fagerberg Linn , Uhlen Mathias , Hellström Ann
Published: January 2023

Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis and interventions are critical to improve the clinical outcomes of extremely premature infants. Here, we have investigated the blood protein profiles during the first months of life in preterm infants to shed light on the role of early extrauterine development. The blood protein levels were analyzed using “next generation blood profiling” on 1335 serum samples, collected longitudinally at nine time points from birth to full term (40 weeks postmenstrual age) from 182 extremely preterm infants. We found a unified pattern of protein development for all included infants, regardless of gestational age and clinical characteristics, suggesting an age-dependent stereotypic development of blood proteins after birth. This knowledge should be considered in neonatal settings and might alter the clinical approach within neonatology, where postmenstrual age is today the most dominant age variable.
Tanshinone IIA inhibits proliferation and migration by downregulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway in small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Jiang Yuxin , Bi Yanli , Zhou Lingjie , Zheng Senwen , Jian Tingting , Chen Jian
Published: January 2023

Background Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most malignant type of lung cancer. Due to the high rates of metastasis and drug resistance, effective therapeutic strategies are lacking. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) has been reported to exhibit anti-tumor activity. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the ability of Tan IIA to inhibit the metastasis and proliferation of SCLC and the underlying mechanism. Methods H1688 cells were treated in vitro with Tan IIA (0, 1, 2 and 4 µM) and LY294002 (10 µM) for 24, 48, 72 hours. H1688 cell migration was evaluated in wound healing and transwell migration assays. Expression of genes was evaluated by RNA-sequencing. BALB/c nude mice were injected with H1688 cells and treated with Tan IIA group (10 mg/kg/day) or a control. Expression of E-cadherin, vimentin and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway proteins in tumors and in H1688 was investigated by immunohistochemical analysis and western blot, respectively. Results Tan IIA inhibited H1688 cell proliferation without inducing apoptosis and suppressed H1688 cell migration. E-cadherin expression was increased, while vimentin expression was reduced after administration of Tan IIA. The analysis of RNA-sequencing showed that some genes associated with PI3K/Akt signaling pathway were altered by Tan IIA treatment. Furthermore, western blot detected the expression of PI3K and p-Akt was also reduced by Tan IIA treatment. In vivo, Tan IIA inhibited tumor growth. Furthermore, Tan IIA increased tumoral expression of E-cadherin accompanied by downregulation of PI3K and p-Akt. Conclusion Tan IIA suppresses SCLC proliferation and metastasis by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thus indicating the potential of Tan IIA as a new and relatively safe drug candidate for the treatment of SCLC.
Does Practice Make Perfect? Functional Connectivity of the Salience Network and Somatosensory Network Predicts Response to Mind-Body Treatments for Fibromyalgia
Authors: Medina Sonia , O’Daly Owen G. , Howard Matthew A. , Feliu-Soler Albert , Luciano Juan V.
Published: January 2023

Mind-body treatments can improve coping mechanisms, and occasionally perceived pain, in individuals with Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). However, their mechanisms-of-action remain unclear and predictors of treatment response are lacking. We employed resting-state blood oxygen level dependent (rsBOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to address this need by examining changes in brain functional connectivity (FC) following mind-body treatment. Patients with FMS underwent either mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), a psychoeducational programme (FibroQoL), or treatment-as-usual (TAU). We acquired rsBOLD data, alongside subjective pain, anxiety, depression, and catastrophizing measures prior to and following treatments. We examined behavioural and FC changes in the salience (SN) and sensorimotor (SMN) networks, performing regression analyses to identify predictors for treatment response. MBSR and FibroQoL groups experienced significant reductions in pain catastrophizing. FC between the SN and the SMN at baseline correlated negatively with pain reductions following MBSR, but positively correlated with pain reductions in the FibroQoL group. Minutes of mindfulness practice was positively associated with clinical improvement but only for patients with lower baseline SN FC with primary somatosensory cortex. Different mind-body treatments are underpinned by distinct effects on discrete brain networks. Measures of functional interplay between SN and SMN have potential as predictors of mind-body treatment response in patients with FMS.
One-year long turbulence measurements and modeling using large-eddy simulation domains in the Weather Research and Forecasting model
Authors: Peña Alfredo , Mirocha Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2023

We present an intercomparison of a full year of turbulence measurements and simulations at Østerild, a site in northern Denmark with relatively flat terrain and high surface roughness, where a high-quality tall meteorological mast is deployed. Both sonic and cup anemometers are mounted on booms on the mast from 7 up to 244 m, thus covering the range of heights in which modern wind turbines operate. The simulations were performed using the Weather Research and Forecasting model in a multiscale setup, with large-eddy simulations (LESs) nested one-way within mesoscale simulations. The mesoscale domains thus simulated the evolving weather, while the two innermost domains used a LES closure, permitting the largest scales of turbulence to be explicitly resolved. For a selected day, we show that the simulated turbulence is accurately resolved within the innermost LES domain, and agrees well with the observations at all vertical levels. For the full year, we show that the innermost domain accurately reproduces mean wind speed, direction, and turbulence levels, whereas the mesoscale simulations have difficulties matching the frequency of occurrence of both low and high turbulence ranges when compared to the observations. The largest differences between the simulated turbulence from the innermost domain and the observations are found under low wind speed conditions close to the surface, particularly during nighttime where the simulated mean wind and turbulence levels are higher and lower, respectively, than the observations, potentially due to the inability of the LES mesh to resolve the very small scales of turbulence and associated momentum transport that those features support.
Graphene Fluorescent Nanoparticles Efficiently Targeting Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Huang Yanan , Wang Yunfeng , Zheng Tianyu , Nie Shuang , Wang Yanli , Shen Hui , Mo Fengfeng
Published: January 2023

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive, rapidly progressing fatal digestive tract tumor. Cancer-associated fibroblasts form a barrier to the penetration of drugs or therapeutic immune cells. Therefore, the inhibition of tumors by modulating CAFs or overcoming their barrier effect is a new tool for tumor therapy. This study aimed to reveal the efficiency of graphene fluorescent nanoparticles targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor cells and demonstrate the application prospects of nanomedicine.
Methods: We observed the co-localization effect of synthetic GFNPs on tumor cells and Cancer-associated fibroblasts in primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer, and synthesized a new nano-drug based on GFNPs and gemcitabine. In vivo imaging system and confocal laser scanning microscope were used for observing the location of GFNPs in tissues. Immunofluorescence staining and Halo analysis are used to observe and count the co-location of GFNPs in the tumor microenvironment.
Results: GFNPs is not only abundantly deposited nearby tumor vessels but also penetrate tumor tissues to reach those regions far away from tumor vessels. Tagging data are as follows, GFNPs can label up to 30% of tumor cells or cancer-associated fibroblast cells inside human pancreatic cancer tissue and mouse tumor metastasis tissue. Over 60% of cancer-associated fibroblast cells in orthotopic pancreatic tumor tissues were marked by GFNPs. GFNPs localize in the nuclei of both αSMA-CAFs and adjacent tumor cells, then the fluorescence signal intensity was proportional to the tumor development cycle. The differences in the co-localization of GFNPs with the nuclei of positive Ki67-expressing tumor cells in primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer were investigated in-depth, fully illustrating that the spatial location of GFNPs in the TME is closely related to the degree of tumor differentiation and progression, guiding the diagnosis of clinical tumors. Based on the dual targeting characteristics of GFNPs targeting CAFs and tumor cells, we combined GFNPs with gemcitabine to form a new nano-drug with an effective reduction of tumor volume and fewer side effects.
Conclusion: This study will provide useful insights into a dual-targeting strategy utilized in the field of pancreatic cancer therapy by targeting both CAFs and pancreatic cancer cells simultaneously.
Effects of ADHD and its medication on depression and anxiety in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Yanyi , Liao Wenjing , Rao Yanxiao , Gao Weijia
Published: January 2023

Background: To comprehensively assess the effects of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its medication on the risks of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents.
Methods: Comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science until May 19, 2022. The outcomes were depression (depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, major depressive disorder) and anxiety (anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, social phobia, separation anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder). Subgroup analysis was performed according to population (children <18 years old, adults ≥18 years old), sex (male, female) and duration of medication (<1 year, ≥1 year). Outcomes assessed by more than 10 studies were tested for publication bias through the Begg’s test.
Results: Thirty-one studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis, with three only included for qualitative analysis. Individuals with ADHD had a significantly higher risk of depressive disorder than those without ADHD (pooled relative risk (RR)=2.26, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.34-3.80, P=0.002). Subjects with ADHD were at a significantly higher risk of major depressive disorder than those without ADHD (pooled RR=2.24, 95%CI=1.31-3.82, P=0.003). Individuals with ADHD had a significantly increased risk of specific phobia versus those without ADHD (pooled RR=1.68, 95%CI=1.16-2.44, P=0.006). The risk of social phobia in the ADHD groupwas significantly higher than that in the non-ADHD group (pooled RR=1.71, 95%CI=1.13-2.61, P=0.012). Subjects with ADHD were at a significantly elevated risk compared with those without ADHD (pooled RR=4.99, 95%CI=1.51-16.56, P=0.009). No significant associations were observed between ADHD stimulant or non-stimulant medication and the risk of depression, and between ADHD stimulant medication and the risk of anxiety (all P>0.05).
Conclusion: Children and adolescents with ADHD had higher risks of depressive disorder, major depressive disorder, specific phobia, social phobia, and agoraphobia than those without; ADHD medication had no significant effect on depression and anxiety.
Machinability of 28-year old plantation-grown Eucalyptus globoidea timber
Authors: Scown Hamish , Altaner Clemens , Lim Thomas
Published: January 2023

Eucalyptus globoidea is an emerging plantation species in New Zealand. Its naturally durable heartwood has potential to be used for solid wood outdoor products such as garden furniture, playground equipment, or decking. Good machinability of a timber is essential for solid wood processing but was unknown for E. globoidea.
This study showed that E. globoidea heartwood machined equally well or better than Pinus radiata in planing, boring, mortising, grooving, edging, and turning. Sanding the higher density E. globoidea (air-dry density 723 kg/m3) was more difficult than the lower density P. radiata (air-dry density 461 kg/m3) but possible at lower sanding depth. Within species, density was not a relevant factor of machining grades. Defect types determining the machine scores were identified so processing strategies for improved outcomes could be devised, for example avoiding exit points for grooving and boring.
The results will give forest growers confidence in investing in E. globoidea plantations as no new processing machinery is needed for the well-established P. radiata wood processing industry to work with this timber.
Predictive Model for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) using Machine Learning and Data Mining
Authors: Dudhale Ashish , Mishra Akhilesh , Pise Priya
Published: January 2023

In Emergency Medical Services (EMS), we use Predictive modeling which is basically a statistical technique which anticipates and forecasts future occurrences using machine learning and data mining. Predictive modeling processes current and historical data acquired at a medical treatment using statistical methodologies, data mining, and other techniques. It allows for the formulation of most effective therapeutic regimens personalized for every patient or individual by enhancing client care depending on individual patient data. In the event of hospitalization and emergency care, where quick choices are required, prognostic models are quite useful. The overall purpose of these advanced procedures like regression modeling, parametric modeling and simulation is to improve problem solving, decision making and finding potential for healthcare. In this paper, Data Science and Machine Learning techniques and algorithms are used to create predictive model of the different obtained datasets. As first responders to life-threatening incidents, EMS plays a critical role in raising survival rates. Unbalanced EMS supply-demand distribution in the city, on the other hand, may result in a scarcity of available EMS services and postpone emergency care.
The association of intrauterine and postnatal growth patterns and nutritional status with toddler body composition
Authors: Masiakwala Elizabeth , Nyati Lukhanyo H. , Norris Shane A.
Published: January 2023

Background
Growth patterns may be indicative of underlying changes in body composition. However, few studies have assessed the association of growth and body composition in poorly resourced regions experiencing the double-burden of malnutrition exists. Thus, the aims of this study were to investigate the association of intrauterine and postnatal growth patterns with infant body composition at 2 years in a middle-income country.
Methods
Participants were from the International Atomic Energy Agency Multicentre Body Composition Reference study. Fat mass (FM), fat free mass (FFM), Fat mass index (FMI), fat free mass index (FFMI), and percentage fat mass (%FM) were measured in 113 infants (56 boys and 57 girls), from Soweto, South Africa, using deuterium dilution from 3–24 months. Birthweight categories were classified using the INTERGROWTH-21 standards as small (SGA), appropriate (AGA), and large-for gestational age (LGA). Stunting (> -2 SDS) was defined using the WHO child growth standards. Birth weight z-score, conditional relative weight (CRW) and conditional length (CH) at 12 and 24 mo were regressed on body composition at 24 mo.
Results
There were no sex differences in FM, FFM, FMI and FFMI between 3 and 24 mo. SGA and AGA both had significantly higher %FM than LGA at 12 mo. LGA had higher FM at 24 mo. Children with stunting had lower FM (Mean = 1.94, 95% CI; 1.63–2.31) and FFM (Mean = 5.91, 95% CI; 5.58–6.26) at 12 mo than non-stunting, while the reverse was true for FFMI (Mean = 13.3, 95% CI; 12.5–14.2) at 6 mo. Birth weight and conditionals explained over 70% of the variance in FM. CRW at both 12 and 24 mo was positively associated with FM and FMI. CRW at 12 mo was also positively associated with FMI, while CH at 24 mo was negatively associated with both FFMI and FMI in boys.
Conclusion
Both LGA and SGA were associated with higher body fat suggesting that both are disadvantaged nutritional states, likely to increase the risk of obesity. Growth patterns through infancy and toddler period (1–2 years) are indicative of body fat, while growth patterns beyond infancy are less indicative of fat-free mass.
Declined Live Birth Rate from In Vitro Fertilization Fresh Cycles Performed during Chinese New Year Holiday Season
Authors: Zhai Jiajia , Zhang Junyan , He Jingfang , Li Guanqun , Hao Guimin
Published: January 2023

Objective: To investigate whether there is an impact of the Chinese New Year (CNY) holiday season on the outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) fresh embryo transfer cycles.
Study Design: A retrospective study
Subjects: 4,688 patients receiving their first IVF fresh cycle attempt between January 2017 and October 2021 were included in the study, of which 4,449 women underwent IVF during non-holiday seasons, while 239 women were treated during the CNY holiday season.
Main Outcome Measure(s): The primary outcome was the live birth rate (LBR).
Result(s): The liver birth rate (LBR) of IVF performed during the CNY holiday season was 32.22%, significantly lower than that of the non-holiday season (43.38%, p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that the CNY holiday season (OR=0.62, 95%CI 0.47-0.82, p=0.001) was an independent factor associated with the live birth rate. Propensity score matching (PSM) data analysis showed the LBR in the CNY holiday season group is 31.78% versus 42.64% in the non-holiday season group (p=0.005). Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) data also indicated that the CNY holiday season had a lower LBR than the non-holiday season (OR=0.64, 95%CI 0.47-0.87, p=0.005).
Conclusion: This research demonstrated for the first time the existence of a decline in the LBR of IVF performed during the CNY holiday season. IVF performed during the Chinese New Year holiday season results in a declined live birth rate. The abrupt lifestyle change, emotional stress, and traveling may have contributed to such an effect.
Opioid-sparing anaesthesia protocol on gastrointestinal function after benign gynaecological laparoscopic surgery: a prospective randomized controlled double-blind study
Authors: Ma Yuhua , Zhang Ran , Cao Xue , Zhang Lin , Bao Suozhu , Ren Jie , Ma Weiwei
Published: January 2023

Background: Gastrointestinal hypokinesis can occur transiently after benign gynecologic surgery. Opioids cause the side effect of postoperative gastrointestinal hypokinesis, but an opioid-sparing anaesthetic protocol based on esketamine reduces intraoperative opioid consumption. Therefore, this study hypothesised that an opioid-sparing anaesthetic protocol based on esketamine would shorten the gastrointestinal function recovery time after benign gynaecological laparoscopic surgery.
Methods: This was a prospective randomized controlled double-blind study conducted in a single centre. All patients scheduled for elective benign laparoscopic gynaecological surgery at Xing'an Meng People's Hospital, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, from November 2021 to April 2022 were consecutively enrolled and randomly divided into the opioid-sparing anaesthesia group (Group OS) and the conventional anaesthesia group (Group C). Postoperative first exhaust time, feeding time and postoperative nausea and/or vomiting (PONV) were observed in both groups.
Results: A total of 71 patients were enrolled in this study, including 35 in Group OS and 36 in Group C. The general condition, operative time, type of surgery, intraoperative bleeding, intraoperative fluid volume and intraoperative urine volume were not statistically different between the two groups. Compared with Group C, significantly shorter anaesthesia resuscitation time (7 [6,9] h vs. 9 [7,11] h, p = 0.013) and first postoperative exhaustion time (11 [8,14] h vs. 14 [11,18], p = 0.003) were observed in the OS group. The incidence of PONV in Group OS was significantly lower compared with Group C (11.4% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.007).
Conclusion: The esketamine-based opioid-sparing anaesthesia protocol may shorten gastrointestinal function recovery time, reduce the incidence of PONV, and promote early recovery in patients after benign gynaecological laparoscopic surgery. Also, the application of esketamine may reduce the postoperative opioid dosage requirement of patients.
Trial registration: This study was registered with the China Clinical Trials Registry (registration number: ChiCTR2100052528, 30/10/2021)
The role of medical support workers during the Covid-19 pandemic in the National Health Service in the UK: a qualitative service evaluation at the Oxford University Hospitals Foundation Trust
Authors: Chakma Samprita , Wang Hanyu , Namedre Mesulame , Hill Elaine , English Mike , Nagraj Shobhana
Published: January 2023

Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Health Service (NHS) England created a short-term position known as a Medical Support Worker (MSW), for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and qualified doctors who had left medicine, to return to medical practice. We conducted a service evaluation of the MSW role at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUHFT), with the aim of understanding how MSWs were perceived and contributed to the NHS, factors driving MSWs’ career choices, the short- and long-term goals of the position, analysing the perspectives of MSWs, their supervisors and recruiters.
Methods
A qualitative case study approach was adopted. A total of nine semi-structured interviews and two focus group discussions involving 18 participants were conducted with MSWs, their supervisors and recruiters based in OUHFT. A thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of results were conducted.
Results
Findings were categorised into micro, meso, and macro levels of the health system. At the micro level, MSWs were identified as a diverse group of highly qualified international medical graduates (IMGs) holding a supernumerary role, who contributed their skills during the pandemic. At the meso level, the importance of a comprehensive induction by the hospital was highlighted by all participants, to clarify the job responsibility and familiarise MSWs with the local health system. At the macro level, the role enabled familiarisation and integration of MSWs within the NHS with the aim of obtaining a license to practice as a doctor in the UK.
Conclusions
This service evaluation highlighted the importance of the role of MSWs during the pandemic. The MSW scheme could be a pathway for IMGs to integrate into the NHS and fill workforce shortages. This study has the potential to inform the NHS long-term policy on the role of MSWs and the integration of IMGs into the workforce.
Linguistic Distance among Gurage Language Varieties
Authors: Menuta Fekede
Published: January 2023

This article measures linguistic distance and classifies Gurage language varieties, the branches of South Ethiosemitic languages. Previous classifications were inconsistent in sub-grouping the language varieties due to data shortage in each language variety, and the methodologies used. The present study included data from all Gurage varieties and used two methods: phonetic distance measured statistically with Cog.1.3.6.1 and Gabmap, and morphological affixes discussed qualitatively to strengthen the finding from the statistical measures. We had 60 informants, 4 speakers from each language variety. Data were collected over three years. The finding showed that there are two major groups: Dumi Gurage (Zay, Silt’e, and Wolane), and Gunnӓn Gurage which is grouped into West Gurage and North Gurage. The West Gurage is sub-classified into Teʃә-group (Chaha, Gura, Gumer, Ezha, and Gyeto) and Kwese-group (Inor, Ener, and Edegagn). The North Gurage is sub-grouped into Nәgda-group (Kistane and Dobbi), and Bazәna-group (Mesqan and Muher).
Spatio-Temporal Bayesian Regression of Pollutants on Reported Respiratory Disorders in Districts of Delhi, India
Authors: Pandey Ranjita , Tolani Himanshu
Published: January 2023

We propose Bayesian Poisson regression with log-linear link function to model prevalence of respiratory disorders (RD) as response to the concentration levels of five types of air contaminants. Intensity of individual pollutants is initially assessed through Heatmaps. Spatial random effects, global temporal effects and differential time trends are investigated across the nine districts of the union territory of Delhi by assuming intrinsic conditionally autoregressive priors. Impact of the pollutants on risk of RD admissions reveal evidence for spatial and spatio-temporal dependence indicating contribution of individual location on exposure to pollutants in addition to explaining dynamics across space in terms of relative risk associated with each pollutant.
The relationship between home and community-based healthcare service utilization and depressive symptoms in older adults in rural China: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Huang Zishuo , Xu Tingke , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Jiayun , Wang Shanshan , Yang Qingren , Fu Yating , Gui Jia , Zhang Xiangyang , Chen Chun
Published: January 2023

Background
Studies have shown a close association between home and community-based healthcare service (HCBHS) utilization and depressive symptoms in older adults. However, no studies have explored the underlying mechanism of this relationship in rural China. This research was designed to evaluate the roles of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and marital status in the association between HCBHS utilization and depressive symptoms in Chinese rural older adults.
Methods
Data were obtained from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, and 5981 rural respondents (≥ 60 years old) were included. Depression scores were calculated using the ten-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.
Results
HCBHS utilization had a direct and negative effect on depressive symptoms. Furthermore, marital status moderated the association between HCBHS utilization and IADL, which belonged to the indirect influence of the first half on the association between HCBHS utilization and depressive symptoms. HCBHS utilization was associated with IADL in single but not in married respondents.
Conclusion
The results demonstrated that marital status moderated the indirect relationship between HCBHS utilization and depressive symptoms, with HCBHS utilization negatively associated with IADL among single but not married respondents. The government should focus on older rural adults, especially those who are single and have poor IADL function, and improve the provision of HCBHS to alleviate depressive symptoms.
POLR2J is a potential biomarker for abnormal tumor progression, vorinostat sensitization, immune infiltration, and prognosis of glioblastoma multiform
Authors: Li Zhi-di , Liu Ye-han , Shen Shu-ying , Shen Fei-yan , Li Wan-yan , zhang chong , Zeng Ling-hui
Published: January 2023

Glioma is one of the most primary malignant brain tumors, and glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is the most common and highly aggressive glioma. Most GBM are high malignant, poor prognosis, resistant to conventional therapy, and prone to recurrence. Therefore, it is crucial to explore novel therapeutics strategies for the treatment and prognosis of GBM. In this study, we elucidated that the maximal overexpression of DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit J-1 (POLR2J) was observed in GBM compared with normal tissues among all cancer types, and high expression of POLR2J or its co-expressed genes predicted poor outcome of GBM patients. DNA replication were significantly enriched in the GBM clinical samples with high POLR2J expression, and POLR2J suppression inhibited the proliferation and triggered cell cycle G1/G0 phase arrest of GBM cells. HDAC inhibitors, such as vorinostat, are identified as effective agents against GBM. We showed that POLR2J silence activated UPR and significantly enhanced anti-GBM activity of vorinostat via suppressing cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. In addition, POLR2J promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the metastatic potentials of GBM cells. Furthermore, POLR2J expression was negatively relevant to the number of B cells, neutrophil, myeloid dendritic cells, CD4 + T cells and etc. Meanwhile, the expression of POLR2J was negatively correlative to the expression of immunotherapy-related genes. Our study confirmed a novel oncogene POLR2J in GBM progression as well as provided a promising strategy for the chemotherapy and immunotherapy of GBM treatment.
The role of CXCL1 in crosstalk between endocrine resistant breast cancer and fibroblast
Authors: Pandithar Sneha , Galke Daniel , Akume Ahone , Belyakov Artem , Lomonaco Dominick , Guerra Amirah A. , Park Jay , Reff Olivia , Jin Kideok
Published: January 2023

Background: ER positive breast cancer is currently targeted using various endocrine therapies. Despite the proven therapeutic efficacy, resistance to the drug and reoccurrence of tumor appears to be a complication that many patients deal with. Molecular pathways underlying the development of resistance are being widely studied.
Methods and results: In this study, using four established endocrine resistant breast cancer (ERBC) cell lines, we characterized CXCL1 as a secreted factor in crosstalk between ERBC cells and fibroblasts. Protein array revealed upreguation of CXCL1 and we confirmed the CXCL1 expression by real-time qRT-PCR and U-Plex assay. Co-culturing ERBC cells with fibroblasts enhanced the cell growth and migration compared to the monoculture. The crosstalk of ERBC cells with fibroblasts significantly activates ERK/MAPK signaling pathway while reparixin, CXCR1/2 receptor inhibitor, attenuates the activity. Reparixin displayed the ERBC cell growth inhibition and the combination treatment with reparixin and CDK4/6 inhibitor (palbociclib and ribociclib).
Conclusions: Taken together, our study implicates CXCL1 as a critical role in ERBC growth and metastasis via crosstalk with fibroblast and cotargeting CXCR1/2 and CDK4/6 could potentially overcome endocrine resistant breast cancer.
Analysis of agronomic traits and regulatory mechanism of a semi-dwarf, albino and blue grain wheat line
Authors: Sun Fengli , Ye Wenjie , Li Song , Wang Zhulin , Xie Kunliang , Wang Weiwei , Zhang Chao , Xi Yajun
Published: January 2023

Plant height and leaf color are important agronomic traits in crops, since they contribute to the production of grains and biomass. Progress has been made mapping the genes that regulate plant height and leaf color in wheat and other crops. We created the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) line DW-B (Dwarfing, White leaves and Blue grains) with semi-dwarfing and albinism at the tillering stage and re-greening at the jointing stage using Lango and Indian Blue Grain. Transcriptomic analyses of the three wheat lines at the early jointing stages indicated that the genes of gibberellin (GA) signaling pathway and chlorophyll biosynthesis were expressed differently in DW-B and its parents. The results of measurement of the response of GA and chlorophyll contents showed differences between DW-B and its parents. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the regulation of plant height and leaf color.
Bioconvection of unsteady nonhomogeneous hybrid nanofluids influenced by motile microorganisms
Authors: Mabrouk S. M. , Inc Mustafa , Rashed A. S. , Akgül Ali
Published: January 2023

Motile bacteria in hybrid nanofluids cause bioconvection. Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas viscose, Bacillus brevis, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas fluorescens were used to evaluate their effect and dispersion in the hybrid nanofluid. Using hybrid Al2O3 and Cu nanoparticles (Cu-Al2O3/water), a two-phase model for mixed bioconvection magnetohydrodynamic flow was created using similarity analysis. M, Pr, and k_p* all affect the sensitivity of velocity and shear stresses. Magnetic, radiation and chemotaxis factors impact bacterial density. Increasing temperature differential and bacterium diffusivity increase bacterial aggregation.
Appraisal of trace metals toxicity and human health risk using a novel approach in produced water of four gas fields, Bangladesh.
Authors: Hossain Md. Numan , Howladar M. Farhad
Published: January 2023

The current research was conducted in the Sylhet gas-fields area of Bangladesh to evaluate the toxicity of trace metals (TMs) and associated health risks. Gas well-produced water, gas field discharge water, and drinking water surrounding the gas fields were collected for analysis. This study analyzed both carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic TMs such as Cr, As, Co, Cd, Fe, Ni, Mn, Zn, and Pb, as well as physical parameters pH and EC in the collected samples. The Fe and EC concentrations in produced and discharged water samples were found to be incredibly high. The average concentrations of TMs in produced water samples during the summer and rainy season were found to be: Fe > Mn > Zn > Ni > Co > Cu > Cr > Pb > As > Cd. The observed metal concentration in discharge water was higher during the summer than rainy season. Most samples met national and international standards for trace elements, while a few samples exceeded the threshold value. The Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HMEI) results indicate that the majority of produced water is highly polluted, while discharge and drinking water are moderately to lowly polluted. The Environmental Pollution Index (EPI) indicates environmental pollution for some produced water samples, while it indicates a moderate to low risk for discharge and drinking water samples. The source allocation of heavy metals (HMs) was determined using positive matrix factorization. However, all water samples have an ecological risk index of less than 150, indicating lower risk. Furthermore, the Heavy Metals Toxicity Load (HMTL) was found to be below the allowable toxicity load for all water samples, indicating minimal contamination in the studied water. The non-cancer hazard score (HI) of the studied HMs is greater for children and females than for males. The cancer risk from Ni is a concern, while the cancer risk from Cd and Cr is also a matter of concern.
Synergistic effects of marine pollutants and microplastics on the destabilization of lipid bilayers
Authors: fleury jean baptiste , Baulin Vladimir A.
Published: January 2023

The increasing production of plastic worldwide results in increasing amounts of plastic waste dumped into the oceans. Plastic waste is fragmenting into smaller pieces up to micro and nanoplastics, which may cross physiological barriers and affect the functions of living organisms. Microplastics can travel with rain and clouds; they are present in soil, snow-capped mountains, and even in the organs and blood of human beings. The potential health implications of microplastics in living organisms raise concerns and are intensively investigated. Recently, we reported the effect of mechanical stretching of microplastics on a lipid bilayer. By combining experimental and theoretical approaches, we have shown that microplastic particles adsorbed on lipid membranes increase membrane stress even at low particle concentrations. In this manuscript, we demonstrate the synergetic effect of marine pollutants on the mechanical interaction induced by microplastics. For this purpose, bare microplastics are incubated in seawater containing marine pollutants. We show that pollutants, such as chemical sol- vents, significantly increase the mechanical stretching induced by microplastics. In turn, microplastics can be viewed as vectors for solvent molecules, facilitating their penetration into the core of lipid membranes and thus strongly affecting their biophysical properties.
Molecular screening of Amblyomma species (Acari: Ixodidae) in Egypt, with first report of the snake tick Amblyomma latum Koch, 1844
Authors: Abouelhassan Eman M. , Kamel Marwa S. , Chitimia‑Dobler Lidia , Bakkes Deon K. , Okely Mohammed
Published: January 2023

Amblyomma species are non-endemic ticks in Egypt, which have been recorded from imported animals. This study was carried out in 2022 to monitor Amblyomma spp. from dromedary camels, cattle, and snakes in Egypt. During this study, 400 camels, 200 cattle, and two snakes (Pythonidae) were inspected for tick infestation. Collected specimens were identified based on morphological characters and confirmed by phylogenetic analysis of the 12S rRNA gene. Camels were infested by adult specimens of Amblyomma variegatum and Amblyomma lepidum, but no Amblyomma spp. were collected from cattle. Amblyomma variegatum showed high genetic similarity to other A. variegatum from Guinea-Bissau and São Tomé (99.996%), and A. lepidum showed high genetic similarity to other A. lepidum from Israel and Sudan (99.986%). Amblyomma latum is recorded in Egypt from African snakes for the first time and showed high genetic similarity with South African A. latum (99.867%).