bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frailty trajectory and its associated factors in older patients after major abdominal surgery: A longitudinal study
Authors: Guo Jing , Wang Wenshuang , Zhang Xiaoxue , Wang Xinran , Zheng Yulin
Published: April 2024

Background: Frailty is a common multifactorial clinical syndrome in older patients that seriously affects their prognosis. However, most studies to date have ignored the dynamics of frailty.The purpose of this study was to explore the frailty status and changes in older patients who underwent major abdominal surgery, identify the different categories of frailty trajectories, and analyze the factors.
Methods: We employed a three-month observational longitudinal study.155 older patients who underwent major abdominal surgery were assessed preoperatively, at discharge, and at one-month follow-up. Data collection included frailty scores, specific demographic and clinical characteristics, and scores for the influencing factors. A latent class growth model was used to explore the frailty trajectories. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing the frailty trajectories. The STROBE checklist was used in the reporting of this study.
Results: Four frailty trajectory patterns were identified among the 155 older patients (average age: 70.38±0.55 years): No frailty (20.1%), frailty exacerbation (39.6%), frailty improvement (13.6%), and persistent frailty (26.7%). Logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index score, type of surgery, intraoperative drainage tube retention time (drainage time), first time to get out of bed after surgery, the time of the first oral feed after surgery, postoperative complications, mobility, nutritional risk, and anxiety were associated with frailty trajectories.
Conclusion: We identified four frailty trajectories in older patients after major abdominal surgery and found that these were influenced by multiple factors. Focusing on individual specificity is conducive to accurately dealing with frailty-associated clinical problems and guiding relevant nursing decisions.
Drought Needs Assessment in Yabello District, Borana Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Bamedo Kedir Geda
Published: April 2024

Background
Ethiopia is vulnerable to a variety of risks, including drought, flooding, livestock, and disease outbreaks. Borana Zone has been experiencing disaster-related occurrences year after year and received little attention in the Oromia region. We aimed to investigate drought consequences and notify stakeholders about the Borana zone emergency in preparation for drought mitigation policy implementation.
Methods
From October 22 to 30, 2021, a multi-stage random sampling technique was used in Yabelo district, covering 20 villages in 10 kebeles administrations. A structured questionnaire was utilized to collect primary data from 210 households and the district's health and nutrition condition was assessed using a secondary record review of the malnutrition report from 2019 to 2021. The data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel.
Results
70% of respondents were males. Drought killed 74.6% of cattle, 11.7% of goats, and 13.7% of camels. Of the 205 household interviewed, 61 (29.80%), 85 (41.5%), and 53 (25.85%) were pregnant women, children under the age of two, and persons over the age of 65, respectively. Overall, 83.4% of households lack access to improved water sources. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, the number of outpatient therapeutic feeding program cases was 573, 631, and 1135, respectively, whilst the number of stabilization center cases was 228, 233, and 316. The majority of the drought-affected community, 61.5%, requires food for humans, 21.5% for livestock, and 14.1% for water immediately.
Conclusion
We discovered that the effects of repeated droughts decreased pastoralist populations' ability to respond to disasters. The drought caused an increase in animal loss and malnutrition cases in the district. The government should take a variety of approaches to reducing the damaging effects of droughts, and an immediate humanitarian response is needed.
Preparation and characterization of Ultrasound -assisted Novel Calcium-chelated peptides from Nannocholoropsis oceanica
Authors: Ding Qingzhi , Sheikh Arooj Rehman , Zhu Yongqi , Sun Nianzhen , Luo Lin , Raynaldo Fredy Agil , Ma Haile , Liu Jiaxin
Published: April 2024

Novel calcium-chelated peptides have been successfully developed using ultrasound technology from Nannochloropsis oceanica, and they have been found to be superior calcium supplements as natural bioactive peptide calcium chelates. This study has provided a thorough understanding of the interaction between Ca2 + ions and peptides or amino acids, and the optimal conditions have resulted in a calcium chelation rate of 61.89 ± 0.121%, a calcium chelation activity of 9.08 ± 0.151%, and a calcium chelation yield of 65.57 ± 0.190%. The chelates' stability was tested and found to be highly stable at higher pH levels, temperatures, and lower phosphate buffer concentrations (10 mmol/L), with a Ca-peptide retention rate of 81.93 ± 0.00761% after 30 minutes of pepsin digestion. Characterization tests have confirmed the production of new complexes as chelates and different spectral and signal analyses have indicated that metal ions combined with amino, carboxyl, and other active chelating groups in Nannochloropsis peptides form metal chelates. The dense structure of the chelated peptides was depicted through SEM and AFM images. The results of this study have highlighted the potential development of functional foods from Nannochloropsis peptides, which can be used as an alternative to conventional calcium supplements.
Preparation of multifunctional flame retardant composite wood by doping poplar cell walls with metal phytates
Authors: Shen Hao , Liu Yangguang , Wang Peiran , Qin Shenglei , Shi Xin , Chu Demiao , Liu Shengquan
Published: April 2024

Phytic acid as an efficient, green and renewable bio-based flame retardant. However, in view of the large number of toxic fumes generated during combustion and the easy loss of flame retardants, to tackle these issues, the current study employed a straightforward two-step process to generate phytate metal salt wood composites (PAN-M, M = Mg, Cu, Fe, Ai and Ni) in cell walls. Compared with natural wood (Control), PAN-M has good leaching resistance of 15 ~ 50 %, lower hygroscopicity of 15 ~ 30 % and improved mechanical strength. The total heat release and smoke emission of PAN-Cu are reduced by 34.54 % and 83.05 % respectively, the LOI of PAN-Cu is increased by 117 %, the smoke density SDR is only 8.38 and the weight gain is 16.9 %. This is mainly due to the apparent surface coke protection of metal phytates and catalytic graphitisation of solid residues by metal ions. The improved carbon layer plays an effective insulating role, limiting flue gas emissions, flame retardant loss and water contact. In addition, results show that PAN-Cu can significantly enhance the dehydration effect of carbon compared to other metal ions. Therefore, PAN-M is therefore an efficient, green and sustainable flame retardant for wood.
A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Using Virtual Reality in Pediatric Pre-intervention Echocardiograms to Decrease Child Anxiety and Fear
Authors: Behera Sarina K. , Punn Rajesh , Menendez Maria , Be Christine , Moon Sandra , Zuniga Michelle , Stauffer Katie Jo , Thorson Kelly , Asi Nora , Lopez Leo
Published: April 2024

Background: Virtual reality (VR) as a distraction tool decreases anxiety and fear in children undergoing procedures, but its use has not been studied during transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs). We hypothesized that VR in children undergoing pre-intervention TTEs decreases anxiety and fear and increases TTE study comprehensiveness and diagnostic accuracy when compared with standard distractors (television, mobile devices).
Methods: Patients (6-18 years old) scheduled for pre-intervention TTEs at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in 2021 and 2022 were prospectively enrolled and randomized to VR and non-VR groups. Patients completed pre- and post-TTE surveys using the Children’s Anxiety Meter-State (CAM-S) and Children’s Fear Scale (CFS). Patients, parents, and sonographers completed post-TTE experience surveys. TTEs were reviewed by pediatric cardiologists for study comprehensiveness and compared with electronic medical records for diagnostic accuracy.
Results: Among 67 enrolled patients, 6 declined VR, 31 randomized to the VR group, and 30 to the non-VR group. Anxiety (average CAM-S difference 0.78+1.80, p=0.0012) and fear (average CFS difference 0.36+0.74, p=0.0005) decreased in both groups. There was no difference between groups in the change in anxiety and fear pre- and post-TTE (p=0.96-1.00). TTE study comprehensiveness and diagnostic accuracy were high in both groups. Procedure time (time in the echocardiography room) was less for the VR group (48.4+18.1 minutes) than the non-VR group (58.8±24.4 minutes), but without a statistically significant difference (p=0.075).
Conclusions: VR is similar to standard distractors and may decrease procedure time. Patients, parents, and sonographers rated the VR experience highly and encouraged its use with future procedures.
Comparative study of the reproductive and growth performances of the Hamra and Rumbi ovine breeds
Authors: MEDDAH Belkacem , Belabdi Ibrahim , de Almeida André , Lafri Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Growth and reproductive performance traits are important economic indicators for analyzing the overall performance of breeding systems. This study aims to evaluate the comparative performance of two Algerian sheep (Rumbi and Hamra) in terms of growth and reproductive performance, and the effect of factors such as breed, season of birth, mode of birth, dam weight and age on this performance in a semi-intensive breeding system. The reproductive performance of 577 Rumbi ewes and 1328 Hamra ewes bred at the Tiaret and Saïda experimental stations respectively, was analyzed using performance monitoring data. Fertility rates for the Rumbi and Hamra breeds of 87.14% and 78.8% respectively were practically similar (p > 0.05). Litter size at birth and weaning was significantly greater in the Hamra breed than in the Rumbi breed (p < 0.05). Analysis of variance of factors (year, season of birth, and age of mother) on reproductive performance in the Hamra breed had a significant effect on reproductive performance (p < 0.05). Weaning mortality was significantly higher in the Hamra breed than in the Rumbi breed, with an average of 22.60% versus 14.94% (p < 0.05). The results of this study showed that Rumbi lambs were heavier at birth than Hamra lambs. The values observed were 4.86 kg versus 3.10 kg for the Hamra breed, with a highly significant difference (p < 0.0001), so the average daily weight gains before weaning of Rumbi lambs were higher than those of Hamra lambs, at 0.195 kg/day versus 0.113 kg/day for Hamra lambs, with a high significance (p < 0.0001). According to the findings of this study, the Hamra breed had superior reproductive potential and the Rumbi breed had superior growth. Consequently, these results could be used for selective sheep breeding, taking into account the random effects of the environment and the potential of each breed.
Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Derived from Dental Pulp Stem Cells Promotes Gingival Fibroblast Adhesion and Migration
Authors: Nowwarote Nunthawan , Chahlaoui Zakaria , Petit Stéphane , Duong Lucas , Dingli Florent , Loew Damarys , Chansaenroj Ajjima , Kornsuthisopon Chatvadee , Osathanon Thannaphum , Fournier Benjamin. P.J.
Published: April 2024

Background: Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) has been proposed as a useful source of biomimetic materials for regenerative medicine due to its biological properties that regulate cell behaviors. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of decellularized ECM derived from dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) on gingival fibroblast (GF) cell behaviors. Cells were isolated from dental pulp and gingival tissues. ECM was derived from culturing dental pulp stem cells in growth medium supplemented with ascorbic acid. A bioinformatic database of the extracellular matrix was constructed using Metascape. GFs were reseeded onto dECM, and their adhesion, spreading, and organization were subsequently observed. The migration ability of the cells was determined using a scratch assay. Protein expression was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.
Results: Type 1 collagen and fibronectin were detected on the ECM and dECM derived from DPSCs. Negative phalloidin and nuclei were noted in the dECM. The proteomic database revealed enrichment of several proteins involved in ECM organization, ECM–receptor interaction, and focal adhesion. Compared with those on the controls, the GFs on the dECM exhibited more organized stress fibers. Furthermore, cultured GFs on dECM exhibited significantly enhanced migration and proliferation abilities. Interestingly, GFs seeded on dECM showed upregulation of FN1, ITGB3, and CTNNB1 mRNA levels.
Conclusions: ECM derived from DSPCs generates a crucial microenvironment for regulating GF adhesion, migration and proliferation. Therefore, decellularized ECM from DPSCs could serve as a matrix for oral tissue repair.
Financial Toxicity Questionnaire (FIT): Development and Validation of the Italian Version (FITALY) in Head and Neck Cancer patients
Authors: Smussi Davide , Conti Carlo , Lorini Luigi , Mattavelli Davide , Levaggi Rosella , Miniaci Raffaele , Calza Stefano , Deganello Alberto , Paduano Consiglia , Alberti Andrea , Grisanti Salvatore , Ripamonti Carla Ida , Berruti Alfredo , Piazza Cesare , Bossi Paolo
Published: April 2024

Background. Financial toxicity from cancer treatments is rising as an important patient-reported outcome. Its relevance was first assessed in the context of privately financed healthcare system, where the financial hardship caused by out-of-pocket payments negatively affects survival, while fewer evidence exists on its role in countries where care is financed by the public health care system. Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients face an increased risk for financial toxicity due to multimodal treatment and relevant out of pocket costs. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an Italian version of the Canadian Financial Index of Toxicity (FIT) questionnaire, defined FITALY.
Methods. FIT questionnaire was translated through a forward-backward process by two investigators independently, and the process was reviewed by a certified medical scientific English native speaker. Once reached consensus upon Italian translation, two Health Economics experts were consulted to adapt the questionnaire to Italian socio-economic context. The FITALY questionnaire v1.0 hereby developed was anonymously administered to two consecutive groups of 30 patients who had received curative, multimodal treatment for HNC cancer at ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy. A cognitive debriefing form was simultaneously administered to ask patients to exclude recurring and redundant items and include new relevant items.
Results. The 14-item FITALY questionnaire provides a global evaluation of financial toxicity ranging from 0 to 100. The questionnaire is divided into 4 domains: financial burden (6 items), exploring the objective financial toxicity burden; financial distress (2 items), which refers to the psychological distress related to financial toxicity; out-of-pocket costs (4 items), which focus on medical expenses paid by the patient; and loss of productivity (2 items), that investigates the disease impact on both patient’s and caregiver’s job activity.
Conclusions. Starting from the Canadian 9-item FIT questionnaire, we developed and validated the Italian 14-item FITALY questionnaire. Prospective application to a cohort of Italian HNC patients is ongoing.
Oxidative decolorization of indigo carmine dye using spent cathode of Li-ion batteries
Authors: Garcia Eric M. , Martins Talita D. , Taroco Hosane , Melo Julio O.F , Taroco Cristiane
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes recycling spent cathodes (SC) from Li-ion batteries to decolorize indigo carmine (IC) solutions, thus eliminating the need for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. The discoloration of indigo carmine is significantly influenced by the pH level, especially from 4.74 to 2. At lower pH values (pH ≤ 2), the decolorization kinetics are not affected by H+ ions and follow first-order kinetics. A 10ppm solution at pH = 3 was decolorized in approximately 20 minutes, suggesting that spent cathodes from Li-ion batteries are promising for advanced oxidative processes. The study also emphasizes the risks associated with improper disposal of Li-ion batteries, as spent cathodes can chemically react with organic molecules similar to indigo carmine in landfills, without the presence of peroxide or sunlight. Mass spectrometry has helped identify the discoloration mechanism, which involves the oxidative reaction of indigo carmine leading to the formation of isatin acid.
Assessing the effects of sponge city construction in Beijing with an improved coupled hydrologic-hydrodynamic model
Authors: Cheng Siwei , Yang Mingxiang , Li Chenglin , Xu Houlei , Chen Changli , Shu DeWei , Jiang Yunzhong , Gui Yunpeng , Dong Ningpeng
Published: April 2024

Low Impact Development (LID) theory represents a new paradigm for sustainable urban development, focusing on enhancing stormwater management, mitigating urban flooding, and reinforcing urban planning. In this study, we select Tongzhou District in Beijing as study area, establish an improved coupled hydrologic-hydrodynamic model based on SWMM and TELEMAC-2D model that integrates the dynamics of surface, pipeline networks, and river channels through one-way coupling method. The drainage capacity of pipe network and surface inundation under rainfall during different recurrence periods were simulated and analyzed. The results show that the concept of LID, also known as sponge city transformation in China, offers significant flood mitigation benefits for the megacities. As rainfall return periods increase, the number of overflow nodes and overloaded pipelines is observed by increase rapidly and become stable in study area. Specifically, under 100 year return period rainfall scenario, the original model projected a maximum inundation depth of 0.407m and an overflow node proportion of 20.8%. Through the comparison simulation result of coupling model suggest prioritizing the reconstruction of pipelines under the first-grade roads and overpasses, followed by LID rebuilding around the river to effectively increase urban infiltration rate and mitigate river overflow risks.
A Novel Biomarker of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: Galectin-9
Authors: Ling Jun , You Shao Li , Chen Weiwei , Yang Xinxin , Xv Yiwen , Zhu Bing
Published: April 2024

Background
Galectin-9 (Gal-9) expression in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure or its correlation with prognosis remain unclear. This study investigated the relationship between the prognosis of liver failure and the analysis of Gal-9 expression in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure.
Methods
Patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure attributable to hepatitis B and those with chronic hepatitis B were included in this single-center prospective cohort study. The expressions of Gal-9 and Tim-3 in T cells were measured; the amounts of Gal-9 and related components in each group were examined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry. An investigation of the expression and distribution of Gal-9 in liver tissues was conducted using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining.
Results
The Gal-9 levels in the acute-on-chronic liver failure group were significantly higher than those in the chronic hepatitis B group. There was an upregulation of Gal-9 and T-cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin domain-3 expressions in peripheral blood T cells. Gal-9 was localized in the regenerative areas of liver tissues in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, co-localizing with Kupffer cells. Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that patients with Gal-9 levels less than 9.6 ng/mL had a worse prognosis, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve being superior to that of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score.
Conclusions
Plasma Gal-9 levels can serve as a prognostic marker in patients with hepatitis B virus-acute-on-chronic liver failure. The predominant expression of Gal-9 in liver Kupffer cells suggests a potential immunosuppressive role in this patient population.
Solid-state NMR backbone chemical shift assignments of α-synuclein amyloid fibrils at fast MAS regime
Authors: Toleikis Zigmantas , Paluch Piotr , Kuc Ewelina , Petkus Jana , Sulskis Darius , Org-Tago Mai-Liis , Samoson Ago , Smirnovas Vytautas , Stanek Jan , Lends Alons
Published: April 2024

The α-synuclein (α-syn) amyloid fibrils are involved in various neurogenerative diseases. Solid-state NMR (ssNMR) has been showed as a powerful tool to study a-syn aggregates. Here, we report the 1H, 13C and 15N back-bone chemical shifts of a new α-syn polymorph obtained using proton-detected ssNMR spectroscopy under fast (95 kHz) magic angle spinning conditions. The manual chemical shift assignments were cross-validated using FLYA algorithm. The secondary structural elements of a-syn fibrils were calculated using 13C chemical shift differences and TALOS software.
Staged Treatment for Correction of Severe Adult Kyphoscoliosis Complicated by Severe Pulmonary Impairment: Halo-Pelvic Traction, Posterior Release Surgery, Posterior Vertebra Column Resection and Instrument Fusion
Authors: Zhao Deng , Zhang Zhong , Hu Zhengjun , Zhong Rui , Jiang Dengxu , Yin Fuyi , Leng Yuanxian , Yi Yanling , Liang Yijian
Published: April 2024

Background
Patients with kyphoscoliosis can present with a variety of chief complaints including axial back pain, concerns about cosmesis, progressively worsening respiratory function, and even neurological deficits. Correction of severe adult kyphoscoliosis remains challenging due to the severity of deformity and poor cardiopulmonary function. Direct one-stage corrective surgery can cause enormous complications and unsatisfactory outcome when dealing with patients with severe kyphoscoliosis. Preoperative halo-pelvic traction (HPT) has become popular to deal with severe scoliosis. The present study aimed to summarize the efficacy and safety of the staged strategy.
Methods
Patients with severe kyphoscoliosis complicated by severe pulmonary impairment who underwent staged treatment and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria from Jan 2019 to Jan 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Data including patient demographics, major coronal curve and kyphosis, pulmonary function test results, distraction time, and complications at different stages of treatment were recorded.
Results
Twenty-three patients (16 male and 7 female) with severe kyphoscoliosis and severe pulmonary impairment were included in the study. The mean age of these patients was 26.2 ± 5.7 years. The mean duration of traction before posterior release surgery was 4.0 ± 1.0 months, while the duration after posterior release surgery was 4.4 ± 1.0 months. The mean follow-up was 40.4 ± 3.9 months. The main curve and kyphosis on admission were 145 ± 11.8° and 149 ± 21.7°, respectively. The main curve and kyphosis decreased to 114 ± 12.3° and 124 ± 22.9°, respectively, after HPT. The FVC and FVC% on admission were 1.44 ± 0.63 L and 39.0 ± 16.19%, respectively. The FVC and FVC% improved significantly after HPT. According to the Nash-Moe classification, the rotation of the apical vertebrae was Grade IV in every patients, and the rotation did not improve during the traction. The operative time of posterior release was 266 ± 49 min. The average bleeding of posterior release was 600 ± 242 ml. HPT was maintained after the posterior release surgery. The mean operating time of posterior correction surgery was 588 ± 53min, and the mean bleeding was 1605 ± 313ml. Finally, the correction rate of was 56.6% and 68.5% on coronal and sagittal plan, respectively.
Conclusions
Staged treatment is an effective and safe strategy to correct severe kyphoscoliosis complicated by severe pulmonary impairment. Preoperative HPT combined with posterior release surgery can significantly reduce spinal deformity and improve pulmonary function. Posterior vertebra column resection (PVCR) is an effective technique for correcting kyphoscoliosis, but it is a technically demanding procedure.
The Equilibrium Box
Authors: Anderson G. M.
Published: April 2024

The meaning of the once widely used term the Gibbs Free Energy in terms of availablework energy is perfectly illustrated for chemical reactions by the Van’t Hoff EquilibriumBox. Combining this with DeDonder’s extent of reaction variable and using thereaction of NH3 to H2 and N2 at 200◦C as an example shows the difference betweentotal work energy and available work energy, and in addition allows calculation of theequilibrium composition, demonstration of the minimum in the Gibbs energy curve,and the standard relationship between ΔrG◦ and lnK
Library Screening, Divergent Evolution and Chemoenzymatic Relay Enabled Comprehensive Oxidation of Labdane
Authors: Li Jian , Liu Xiaotao , Xu Yaoyao
Published: April 2024

In nature, basic terpene skeletons are produced and subsequently undergo oxidative transformations mediated by enzymes or non-enzymatically, leading to diverse structural variations. To date, thousands of natural products featuring a variety of oxidation patterns have been solely isolated from the labdane family. This report delineates a strategy for comprehensive introduction of oxidation states into of the labdane core, by employing a combination of enzyme library screening, directed evolution, and sequential chemoenzymatic oxidation processes. Furthermore, we showcase the functional viability of our chemoenzymatic approach by accomplishing a formal synthesis of nimbolide, highlighting its potential in streamlining the synthesis of complex natural products.
Messung mütterlicher Medienerziehung für interaktive und nicht-interaktive Medien
Authors: Naab Thorsten , Wendt Ruth , Langmeyer-Tornier Alexandra
Published: April 2024

In der Forschung zur elterlichen Medienerziehung besteht weitestgehend Konsens über die Relevanz bestimmter Strategien wie einer aktiven Begleitung und dem Setzen von Regeln. Trotz umfangreicher Forschung gibt es jedoch nur wenige standardisierte Messinstrumente, die dabei zwischen einer interaktiven und einer nicht-interaktiven Mediennutzung der Kinder unterscheiden. Diese Differenzierung wurde von Nimrod, Elias und Lemish (2019a) aufgegriffen und in einer Untersuchung mit Grosseltern empirisch überprüft. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde die dafür entwickelte Skala anhand einer Befragung von 1.330 Müttern in Deutschland mit Kindern zwischen zwei und 14 Jahren adaptiert und validiert. Die Ergebnisse bestätigen eine gute Passung der Skala für Mütter jüngerer Kinder (zwei bis sieben Jahre). Demnach ist es gerade für diese Zielgruppe relevant, die elterliche Medienerziehung zumindest mit Blick auf bestimmte Strategien (insbesondere restrictive mediation, supervision) stärker nach den medialen Aktivitäten des Kindes zu differenzieren. Mit steigendem Alter des Kindes scheint eine entsprechende Differenzierung dagegen zunehmend obsolet zu werden.
Optimizing Sowing Density for Parsley, Cilantro, and Sage in Controlled Environment Production: Balancing Productivity and Plant Quality
Authors: Li Jianyu , Martin Akela , Carver Lauren , Armstrong Sarah , Givens Spencer , Walters Kellie
Published: April 2024

Sowing density is a key management practice influencing productivity and quality of leafy greens and culinary herbs grown in controlled environments. However, research-based information on optimal density is limited for many culinary herbs. This greenhouse study aimed to quantify sowing density impacts on biomass output, individual plant growth, and morphological traits in hydroponically produced ‘Giant of Italy’ parsley (Petroselinum crispum), ‘Santo’ cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), and sage (Salvia officinalis). Seedlings were grown in phenolic foam cubes with 1, 5, 10, 15, or 20 seeds per cell, transplanted into an ebb-and-flow hydroponic system in a glass-glazed greenhouse with 23 °C target average daily temperature, 16-hour photoperiod, a target daily light integral of 13 mol·m−2·d−1, and harvested at 16 to 28 d after transplanting depending on species. ‘Giant of Italy’ parsley and ‘Santo’ cilantro fresh weight per cell increased quadratically by 274% (57.3 g) and 305% (19 g), respectively, as sowing density increased from 1 to 15 seeds per cell, then plateaued as density further increased. Sage fresh weight plateaued at 10 seeds per cell with an increase of 225% (29.2 g) compared with 1 seed per cell. Cilantro and sage dry weight per cell plateaued at 14 and 8 seeds per cell, respectively, and parsley dry weight quadratically increased as sowing density rose up to 20 seeds per cell. Although fresh and dry weight increased, individual plant height, stem diameter, and individual plant dry weight exhibited linear or quadratic declines as sowing density increased, indicating higher sowing densities restricted individual plant growth. In summary, as sowing density increased, fresh and dry weight per cell generally increased but individual plant quality decreased. For the greatest fresh and dry weight, 20, 18, and 10 seeds per cell should be sown for parsley, cilantro, and sage, respectively. However, to balance fresh weight and crop quality, our results suggest sowing density (seeds per cell) targets of 16 seeds for parsley, 18 seeds for cilantro, and 10 seeds for sage.
Utilizing statistical and MCDM techniques in indexing morphometric parameters towards improved watershed management in the Nandhour-Kalish drainage system
Authors: Gururani Dheeraj Mohan , Varade Divyesh , Joshi Himanshu , Singh Hemant , Kumar Yogendra , Kumar Vinod
Published: April 2024

Morphometric analysis plays a crucial role in the effective management of the surface as well as subsurface water resources. In the present study, ASTER DEM and Survey of India toposheets were utilized to characterize various morphological aspects of the Nandhour-Kalish watershed in Uttarakhand, India. In total, 12 sub-watersheds were determined using the SWAT 2012 in ArcGIS v10.4.1 and were coded as SW1–SW12. For each sub-watershed, 17 morphometric indices were estimated using Principal Component Analysis to determine the most influential indices or criteria of morphometric parameters in the context of the hydro-sedimentological response. The relative influence of identified criteria parameters was assessed using the Criteria Importance for Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) method. The developed sub-watersheds were then prioritized towards the prompt implementation of soil and water conservation measures. The results indicate that three sub-watersheds (SW2, SW3, and SW4) were categorized under a very high class of priority, while three (SW1, SW5, and SW6) were indexed under a high priority class. The study is an attempt to ease out the morphometry-based prioritization, which otherwise is relatively complex due to the availability of a large number of input parameters and ambiguity concerning parameter selection for the process of prioritization.
Modeling and future projection of streamflow and sediment yield in a sub-basin of Euphrates River under the effect of climate change
Authors: Güven Aytaç , Gün Muhammed Vedat , Pala Abdulhadi
Published: April 2024

Recognizing the differential impacts of climate change across geographical scales, this study emphasizes the importance of statistical downscaling. Using Gene Expression Programming (GEP) and Linear Genetic Programming (LGP), statistical downscaling transforms broad climate trends into region-specific insights. This allowed for detailed analyses of anticipated changes in sediment yield and discharge within a Euphrates River sub-basin in Türkiye using large-scale variables from the CanESM2 model. The dataset is divided into calibration (1970–1995) and validation (1996–2005) periods. To assess the models’ accuracy, statistical measures such as RMSE, MAE, NSE, and R were used. The analysis revealed that LGP outperformed GEP in both discharge and sediment yield during validation, with RMSE = 51.79 m3/s and 4,325.66 tons/day, MAE = 27.14 m3/s and 1,593.34 tons/day, NSE = 0.684 and 0.627, and R = 0.841 and 0.788, respectively. However, when simulating future periods based on the observed period (2006–2020), the GEP model was superior to LGP under RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP 8.5 scenarios from CanESM2. In 2021–2100, models suggest a moderate decrease in discharge and sediment yield, indicating potential shifts in the basin's hydrodynamics. These changes could disrupt hydropower generation, challenge water management practices, and alter riverine ecosystems. The results necessitate a thorough assessment of potential ecological consequences.
Multiomics Analysis of Disulfidptosis Patterns and Integrated
Machine Learning to Predict Immunotherapy Response in Lung
Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Junzhi , Li Huimin , Zhang Nannan , Dong Qiuping , Liang Zheng
Published: April 2024

Background:

Recent studies have unveiled disulfidptosis as a phenomenon intimately
associated with cellular damage, heralding new avenues for exploring tumor
cell dynamics. We aimed to explore the impact of disulfide cell death on the tumor immune
microenvironment and immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods:

We initially utilized pan-cancer transcriptomics to explore the expression,
prognosis, and mutation status of genes related to disulfidptosis. Using the LUAD multi-
-omics cohorts in the TCGA database, we explore the molecular characteristics of subtypes
related to disulfidptosis. Employing various machine learning algorithms, we construct
a robust prognostic model to predict immune therapy responses and explore the
model's impact on the tumor microenvironment through single-cell transcriptome data.
Finally, the biological functions of genes related to the prognostic model are verified
through laboratory experiments.

Results:

Genes related to disulfidptosis exhibit high expression and significant prognostic
value in various cancers, including LUAD. Two disulfidptosis subtypes with distinct
prognoses and molecular characteristics have been identified, leading to the development
of a robust DSRS prognostic model, where a lower risk score correlates with a
higher response rate to immunotherapy and a better patient prognosis. NAPSA, a critical
gene in the risk model, was found to inhibit the proliferation and migration of LUAD
cells.

Conclusion:

Our research introduces an innovative prognostic risk model predicated upon
disulfidptosis genes for patients afflicted with Lung Adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This
model proficiently forecasts the survival rates and therapeutic outcomes for LUAD patients,
thereby delineating the high-risk population with distinctive immune cell infiltration
and a state of immunosuppression. Furthermore, NAPSA can inhibit the proliferation
and invasion capabilities of LUAD cells, thereby identifying new molecules for clinical
targeted therapy.
Chemistry, Analysis, and Biological Aspects of Daprodustat, A New Hypoxia Inducible Factor Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Patil Roshani , Sharma Sanjay
Published: April 2024

Background:

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) carried
out a survey between 2007-10 and found that as compared to the general population, the prevalence
of anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients was twice high. Daprodustat is an investigational
novel drug for the treatment of renal anemia.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of chemistry, synthesis,
pharmacology, pharmacokinetic, and bioanalytical methods for the analysis of Daprodustat.

Methods:

To improve understanding, a review was carried out by creating a database of relevant
prior research from electronic sources such as ScienceDirect and PubMed. The methodology is
shown in the flowchart of the literature selection process.

Results:

The drug was approved in 2020 for therapeutic purposes in Japan. It is a novel drug approved
for the treatment of anemia in chronic kidney disease for oral administration. It is intended
for adults who have undergone dialysis for a minimum of four months and are experiencing anemia
as a result of chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion:

This review examines therapeutic, pharmacological, and analytical aspects related to
the novel drug Daprodustat.
Exploring the Antitumor Efficacy of PEGylated Liposomes Loaded with Licorice Extract for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Haghighat Zeinab Azizi , Safekordi Aliakbar , Ardjmand Mehdi , Akbarzadeh Azim
Published: April 2024

Background:

Glycyrrhizic Acid (GA), a compound derived from licorice, has exhibited
promising anticancer properties against several cancer types, including Prostate Cancer (PCa)
and Gastric Cancer (GCa).

Objective:

This study has introduced a novel approach involving the encapsulation of GA and Licorice
extract (Lic) into Polyethylene Glycol Liposomes (PEG-Lip) and assessed their efficacy
against AGS (human gastric cancer) and PC-3 (human prostate cancer) cells, marking the first report
of this endeavor.

Methods:

We synthesized GA-loaded PEG-Lip (GA PEG-Lip) and Lic-loaded PEG-Lip (Lic
PEG-Lip) through the reverse-phase evaporation method.

Results:

Characterization of these liposomal formulations revealed their size, drug encapsulation,
and loading efficiencies to be 110 ± 2.05 nm, 117 ± 1.24 nm; 61 ± 0.81%, 34 ± 0.47%; and 8 ±
0.41% and 4.6 ± 0.21%, respectively. Importantly, the process has retained the chemical structure
of both GA and Lic. Furthermore, GA and Lic have been released from the PEG-Lip formulations
in a controlled manner.
In our experiments, both nanoformulations exhibited enhanced cytotoxic effects against AGS and
PC-3 cells. Notably, GA PEG-Lip outperformed Lic PEG-Lip, reducing the viability of PC-3 and
AGS cells by 12.5% and 15.9%, respectively

Conclusion:

These results have been corroborated by apoptosis assays, which have demonstrated
GA PEG-Lip and Lic PEG-Lip to induce stronger apoptotic effects compared to free GA and Lic
on both PC-3 and AGS cells.
This study has underscored the potential of encapsulating GA and Lic in PEG-Lip as a promising
strategy to augment their anticancer efficacy against prostate and gastric cancers.
Electrochemical Modification of Metronidazole and its Application as Antibacterial and Potential Drug Agent
Authors: Egu Samuel Attah , Idih Sunday Okpanachi , Idih Favour Moses , Aminu Ruth Foluke , Achimugu Lawrence , Omale Aminu , Omale Jamila Audu , Abah Lian Ojotule , Amlabu Emmanuel
Published: April 2024

Background:

Drug resistance poses a threat to global health given the disturbing rate at
which microbiological illnesses are rising and the widespread use of antibiotics. While naturally
occurring antibiotics reduce the likelihood of bacterial resistance, recognized drugs can develop the
same properties when structurally modified. Metronidazole has been targeted to achieve this feat.

Objective:

The purpose of this work is to enable the structural modification of metronidazole by
means of electric current, using inexpensive, easily accessible magnesium ribbon as electrodes in
order to produce a novel, effective antibiotic.

Methods:

With magnesium ribbon electrodes, metronidazole is modified electrochemically, in an
undivided cell system. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), and Gas
Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to characterize the product. Antibacterial
activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method and Wistar rats were used for in vivo
toxicity assessment.

Results:

2-Methyl-1-vinyl-1H-imidazol-5-amine showed good antibacterial activities compared to the
standard nitrofurantoin and toxicity evaluations using Wistar rats revealed that the product might
induce dose-dependent variations in kidney function biomarkers, with doses of 100 mg/kg and below.
However, when the compound was administered orally, there was no significant effect on liver
function, even at a dose of 1000 mg/kg.

Conclusion:

These results point to the modified metronidazole's potential as a potent antibiotic with
controllable toxicity, indicating that additional research into its pharmacological uses is necessary.
Use and Efficacy of I-gel in Complicated Intubations in Newborn Infants: A Review of Case Reports in the Literature
Authors: Barbieri Emiliano , Giordano Maurizio , Sorgente Giuseppe , Borgia Giulia , Improta Marta , Colonna Monica , Crisci Valeria , Fattorusso Valentina , Barbieri Flavia , Buonocore Giuseppe , De Bernardo Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Current guidelines for neonatal resuscitation suggest the use of a laryngeal
mask when ventilation with both facemask and endotracheal tube has failed in newborns
weighing >2000 g or delivered ≥ 34 weeks of gestation age. Paediatric I-gel® is one of the latest
supraglottic airway management devices suitable for children and newborns. I-gel® use was effective
in guaranteeing adequate ventilation in patients with anatomic abnormalities in case of respiratory
impairment or during surgical procedures after the induction of anaesthesia.

Objective:

The purpose of our review was to evaluate the use and efficacy of I-gel® in case of complicated
intubations.

Methods:

In July 2023, two authors of this paper independently conducted searches of the MEDLINE,
Web of Science, and Scopus databases without imposing any time constraints or other restrictions.
Three case reports were included, each describing the use of I-gel® device in difficult intubations
in newborns with anatomical abnormalities.

Results:

No difficulties were reported in the insertion of the device, which was placed even by inexperienced
clinicians

Conclusion:

The data collected highlighted the possibility of using I-gel® not only as a rescue device
after attempted and failed endotracheal placement but also as a first choice in selected patients.
Studies on larger cohorts would be needed. Further research involving larger patient cohorts
of multicentre NICUs is necessary to confirm the use of laryngeal masks in neonates weighing
less than 2000 grams.
Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction Disease:
A Systematic Review
Authors: Rathore Anamika , Sharma Anuj Kumar , Murti Yogesh , Bansal Sonal , Kumari Vibha , Snehi Varsha , Kulshreshtha Mayank
Published: April 2024

Background:

Myocardial infarction (MI), also referred to as a "heart attack," is
brought on by a partial or total interruption of blood supply to the myocardium. Myocardial infarction can be "silent," go undiagnosed, or it can be a catastrophic occurrence that results in
hemodynamic decline and untimely death. In recent years, herbal remedies for MI have become
effective, secure, and readily accessible.

Objective:

The purpose of this review was to examine the medicinal plants and phytochemicals
that have been used to treat MI in order to assess the potential contribution of natural substances
to the development of herbal MI treatments.

Methodology:

A literature search was employed to find information utilizing electronic databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Sci Finder, Reaxys, and Cochrane.

Results:

The identification of 140 plants from 12 families led to the abstraction of data on the
plant families, parts of the plant employed, chemical contents, extracts, model used, and dose.

Conclusion:

The majority of the MI plants, according to the data, belonged to the Fabaceae
(11%) and Asteraceae (9%) families, and the most prevalent natural components in plants with
MI were flavonoids (43%), glucosides (25%), alkaloids (23%), phenolic acid (19%), saponins
(15%), and tannins (12%).
Targeting Insulin- and Calcium-related Pathways for Potential Treatments
for Alzheimer's Disease and Diabetes
Authors: Sood Shreya , Devi Sushma , Singh Thakur Gurjeet , Singh Randhir
Published: April 2024

:

Alzheimer's disease and diabetes are common disorders among the elderly population
and have emerged as a major health concern. Both diseases pose considerable risks to one another.
Diabetics have a significantly increased probability of getting Alzheimer's disease
throughout their lifetime. These diseases are linked because, both share common risk factors
such as impaired carbohydrate metabolism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammatory
response, mitochondrial dysfunction, and amyloidosis. Insulin is a vital hormone responsible for
bringing extremely high glucose levels back to normal and its receptors available in the hippocampus
help in enhancing cognitive function. Insulin resistance consequently serves as a link
between both diabetes and AD. Similarly, amylin is another hormone secreted by the pancreas
along with insulin. During diabetes, amylin gets oligomerized and forms a neurotoxic complex
with Aβ inside the brain, which causes AD to develop. Along with these, another main mechanism
influencing AD development is Ca2+ dyshomeostasis. Insulin production from the pancreas
is generally aided by Ca2+, but in excess, it can cause dysregulation of many signaling pathways
such as CaMKK2, CAMP, CREB, MAPK, STIM\Orai, etc. which can ultimately result in
the pathogenesis of AD in diabetic people. In this review, we discussed in detail the pathogenesis
of AD associated with diabetes and the mechanisms initiating their progression.