bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thromboelastograhpy of hemostasis in hepatocellular carcinoma with underlying cirrhosis and massive intraoperative blood loss in liver resection
Authors: Di Ying , Li Jialu , Ye Chunjuan , Yu Xiaoqing , Wang Zheng , Zhu Qianqian
Published: February 2023

Objects

The presence of underlying cirrhosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) might further complicate hemostasis. Thromboelastography (TEG) is a global coagulation test that accurately reflects hemostatic function in patients with liver cirrhosis. Therefore, we aimed to explore the association between TEG parameters and HCC with underlying cirrhosis or massive intraoperative blood loss during liver resection.

Methods

Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of adult HCC patients who underwent TEG prior to live resection or any blood transfusions were collected. The clinical severity of cirrhosis was categorized. Liver resections were classified into low, medium, and high complexity.

Results

A total of 833 patients with HCC were included. There was a longer K-times (2.43 ± 0.98 vs. 1.92 ± 0.79, p < 0.001), smaller α‑angles (60.32 ± 11.33 vs. 64.69 ± 7.77, p < 0.001), lower maximum amplitude (MA) (55.32 ± 8.06 vs. 61.38 ± 7.66, p < 0.001) in cirrhotic patients than those non-cirrhotic patients. After multivariate adjusted logistic analysis, the lower MA (OR = 0.947, 95%CI, 0.916–0.980, p = 0.002) was still associated with cirrhosis. Furthermore, the AUC of the MA for predicting cirrhosis was 0.710 (95% CI, 0.666–0.754, p < 0.001). The association between MA and clinical cirrhosis severity was also statistically significant but weak (r=-0.068, p = 0.020). There were no significantly differences between patient with and without massive intraoperative blood loss regarding TEG parameters (all p > 0.05). After multivariate adjusted analysis, the CTP class B (OR = 2.274, 95%CI, 1.424–3.630, p = 0.001), open surgery (OR = 2.668, 95%CI, 1.780–3.998, p < 0.001), and more surgery complexity (medium, OR = 2.663, 95%CI, 1.091-6.500, p = 0.031; high, OR = 4.425, 95%CI, 1.695–11.552, p = 0.002) was independently associated with massive intraoperative blood loss.

Conclusions

The results of present study implied that though the MA was associated with cirrhosis, it could not discriminate the stage of cirrhosis in patients with HCC. Preoperative TEG parameters could not predict intraoperative massive blood loss in HCC with underlying cirrhosis.
Studies on combining ability for yield related traits in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum- graecum L.) .
Authors: Kumar Sharvan , Singh Devraj , Kumar Manjeet , Yadav Hridesh , Yadav Vikash Kumar
Published: February 2023

The present investigation entitled “Studies on combining ability for yield related traits in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum- garacum L.) ..” was conducted during Rabi seasons of 2018-19 (E1) and 2019-20 (E2) at the Main Experiment Station (MES). Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) India. Ten homozygous, superior and optimally divergent lines of fenugreek having Indian adaptability were used for carrying out half diallel design to study General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) estimates for Days to 50 per cent flowering, Days to maturity, Plant height (cm), Number of branches per plant, pod length (cm), Number of pods per plant, Number of seed per pods, Test weight (g), Biological yield (g), Harvest index (%) and yield per plant (g). The analysis of variances due to both GCA and SCA were significant, suggesting that both additive and non-additive genetic variance were involved for genetic control of the character Number of pods per plant, Number of seed per pods and yield per plant (g). However, the variance due to GCA was more pronounced for Days to 50 per cent flowering, Days to maturity, pod length (cm), Number of pods per plant, Number of seed per pods, Test weight (g), Biological yield (g), Harvest index (%) and yield per plant (g), as a result of additive gene action. The parents P2, P4 and P7 were best general combiner for earliness, whereas P4, P6 and P9 showed best GCA effect for yield during the both season and over the season (Pooled). The best ten crosses having high negative SCA effects for days to 50 per cent flowering during both season and four crosses during E1, five crosses E2 and pooled for days to maturity showed best specific combiner for earliness. Forty five crosses, only thirty crosses in E1, twenty four crosses in E2 and thirty one crosses in pooled exhibited positive and significant SCA effects, indicating good specific combining ability for yield per plant.
Mott insulating ruthenium oxides for highly efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Miao Xianbing , Zhang Jingda , Hu Zhenpeng , Zhou Shiming
Published: February 2023

Electron correlation effects among 4d-electrons are generally believed to be weak due to a large spatial extension of 4d-orbitals and then long neglected in studying the electronic and adsorption properties of transition-metal oxide catalysts. Here we demonstrate that the electron correlation plays a critical role in improving the catalytic activity of ruthenium oxides towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Density functional theory plus Hubbard U calculations on the state of the-art OER catalyst, rutile RuO2, reveal that the adsorption energies for oxygenated intermediates can be nearly optimized when the metallic oxide turns into a Mott insulator. By regulating the effective electron correlations via RuO6 octahedral network in nanosized various rutile and pyrochlore ruthenium oxides, we successfully realize a Mott metal-insulator transition and develop a series of insulating oxides with a superior OER performance to the metallic RuO2. Our work builds a bridge between the electrochemistry and Mott physics for transition-metal oxides, opening a new avenue for designing advanced catalysts.
Dependence of the depth of rainfall penetration and the of the depth of carbonate nodules of Calcic Chernozem of the South of Russia
Authors: Minaeva Evgenia , Bezuglova Olga , Morozov Igor , Gorbov Sergey , Isagaliev Murodzhon
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study is to identify the relationship between of depth of carbonate nodules with the depth of rainfall penetration, to clarify the values of the nodule depth depending on climatic conditions and soil thickness. We used data for the period from 1948 to 1980 on the average long-term depth of rainfall penetration the profile of Calcic Chernozems that formed on the territory of Northern Azov region, a vast area within the Rostov region, Russia. Morphological descriptions from the archive materials of the State Research Institute for Land Design (5318 soil profile and pits). The data were processed by the methods of descriptive statistics, cluster and correlation analyses. As a result of the study, it was found that the data array is clearly divided by the agro-climatic factor. A significant difference in the localization depths of carbonate nodules between Calcic Chernozem of Northern Azov and Calcic Chernozem of Ciscaucasia, as well as Calcic Chernozem Pachic of Northern Azov and Calcic Chernozem Pachic of Ciscaucasia was obtained. Correlation analysis proved a close relationship between the depth of wetting and the level of occurrence of carbonate nodules in the study area, which gives grounds for further research in other semi-arid areas.
Importance of calcium on the parotid salivary gland structure (experimental study on rats)
Authors: Montaser Maha Mohamed , Hak Amel El , Elba Gehan , Eladawy Monir , Hamza sara
Published: February 2023

Background Calcium makes up 1-2⸓ percent of a person’s body weight, and 99⸓ of it can be found in bones and teeth. The remaining circulates in the blood, muscles, and other tissues. Calcium deficient diet affect general health by causing obesity, fat accumulation, diabetes (insulin resistance), osteoporosis and finally bad oral health due to the non- functioning salivary gland caused by hypocalcemia If calcium deficiency is not treated, it is considered a fatal condition.
Calcium is used entirely by the salivary gland to induce its secretory function also it acts as a common modulator mediator for all receptors. Calcium deficiency increases fat cell formation and decreases exocytosis.
Aim of this study is to investigate the effect of calcium on general health and on the parotid salivary gland structure in rats.
Methods: twenty-four adult male albino rats weighting from 150-200 grams were divided into two groups 12 rat each, group I: control, group II: calcium deficient diet.
Body weight, general health observations were measured weekly throughout the experimental period while blood serum level of cholesterol, calcium, insulin, and glucose were all measured at the end of the experiment which lasted for 8 weeks.
At the end of the experiment, the rats were euthanized, and the parotid glands were dissected, prepared for light and electron microscopic examination.
Results: Group II showed obesity, increase in blood cholesterol, insulin, and glucose level. The ultra-structural and histological examinations showed loss of the normal architecture of acini and duct system as well as the capsule.
Conclusion: calcium deficient has a toxic effect on general health and on the parotid salivary gland structure.
Vitexin isolated from Acanthus ilicifolius L. leaf enhances GLUT-4 translocation in experimental diabetic rats
Authors: GA Gayathri , P Kavya , D Ashwini , Chakraborty Eshika , Ahmed Idris Adewale , M Gayathri
Published: February 2023

Acanthus ilicifolius L. leaf is extensively used in the Indian and Chinese medicine systems to treat diabetes mellitus. In this study, the antidiabetic effect of vitexin isolated from A.ilicifolius leaf extract and their effect on GLUT-4 translocation and PPAR-γ expression was evaluated high-fat diet-streptozotocinocin (HFD-STZ) induced rats. In vitro antidiabetic effect of vitexin was investigated through glucose uptake activity in L6 (rat skeletal muscle) cell lines. Vitexin (10 and 20 mg/kg BW was administered orally to HFD-STZ-induced diabetic rats for 48 days. The effect of vitexin on body weight, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, total protein, urea, creatinine, and liver enzymes was examined. GLUT-4 translocation and PPAR-γ expression were studied in the skeletal muscle and adipocytes of experimental rats. The interaction of vitexin with GLUT-4 and PPAR-γ was validated by molecular docking analysis. Vitexin significantly lowered the blood glucose and also normalized other biochemical parameters. Further, the treatment with vitexin up-regulates the mRNA expression of GLUT-4 and PPAR-γ in diabetic rats. In silico analysis also supports the promising interactions between vitexin and target proteins. These results explained that vitexin up-regulates the mRNA expression of GLUT-4 and PPAR-γ and enhanced the translocation of GLUT-4 which maintains glucose homeostasis. Thus vitexin can be a gold promising drug for type II diabetes mellitus in the future.
Development and application of a more refined process for extracting rock crack width information based on artificial intelligence
Authors: Ye Peng , Yu Bin , Zhang Runhong , Chen Wenhong , Li Yangchun
Published: February 2023

The process of image collection of high-altitude rock cracks using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) suffers from insufficient resolution and motion blur, which prevents more accurate detection of micro-cracks. Therefore, in this study, a rock crack refinement detection process (RC-RDP) based on super-resolution reconstruction (SRR) technique and semantic segmentation (SS) network is developed to detect micro-cracks. Four SRR networks (RCAN, SRDenseNet, ESRGAN, BSRGAN) and six SS networks (PSPNet, SegNet, DeepLab V3+, UNet++, UNet++(CBAM), SegFormer) are trained and tested separately using rock crack datasets. SRR indicators (PSNR and SSIM) and SS indicators (Precision, Recall, F1-Score and IoU) are applied to evaluate the performance of SRR networks and SS networks, respectively. According to the evaluation indicators of each network performance, in this paper, the RCAN network (PSNR = 31.08 dB and SSIM = 88.56%) is applied in the SRR part, and the UNet++ (CBAM) network is used in the crack detection part (Precision = 0.874, Recall = 0.886, F1-Score = 0.879 and IoU = 0.785). In addition, a novel data acquisition process integrating skeletonization algorithm, feature nodes detection algorithm, normal vector estimation algorithm and width extraction algorithm is used to calculate the minimum width WMin, maximum width WMax and average width WA information of the crack traces. The results of this paper show that the application of RC-RDP based on deep learning can obtain better super resolution (SR) images and more accurate width information. The method in this study shows excellent performance in detecting rock cracks.
A Novel Secure Communication System Using Optoelectronic Feedback in Semiconductor Laser
Authors: Abed Ehsan Ali , Mousa Salam K. , Jamal Raied K.
Published: February 2023

Due to the progress of modern technologies in covert communication, in this work a new communication system is proposed using the chaotic system resulting from optoelectronic feedback of semiconductor laser. Where the sinusoidal signal (amplitude A and frequency f were 0.01 a.u and 0.1 a.u respectively) was used to examine the transmission efficiency of the signal and it was found that the purity of the received signal at the receiving unit depends on the amount of synchronization between the two systems, i.e. on the coupling factor between the transmitting and receiving systems. It was found that the ideal value of the coupling factor was 270 a.u at initial condition xi1, yi1, zi1, xi2, yi2, and zi2 are 1, 1, 0.005, 1, 1, and 0.05 respectively, as the two systems showed full synchronization between them. Through the results obtained, it was found that the chaotic system resulting from the optoelectronic feedback (OEFB) presents a modern technique for encoding the signal to send it with high confidentiality, and the reason is due to the wide bandwidth of the spectrum of the chaotic system, which allows easy selection of the appropriate frequency for encoding information, and in this way it was possible to open a new field in secret communications.
Expression of complexes I, II and IV decreased in SGNs of noise-stimulated rats, mediating the damage and degeneration of SGNs
Authors: Ding Zhong-Jia , Wang Yin , Wang Ren-Feng , Mi Wen-Juan , Qiu Jian-Hua , Zha Ding-Jun
Published: February 2023

Background: Noise-induced hearing impairment can mediate delayed injury of spiral neurons (SGNs), resulting in degeneration of nerve fibers, synaptic degeneration and even death of SGNs. We believe that delayed injury is related to mitochondrial energy metabolism disorders.
Results: We investigated ATP and the electron transport chain (ETC) in rat SGNs after noise injury and found that with prolonged injury time, ATP synthesis and the expression of complexes II and IV decreased, indicating the functional decline of the ETC. The maintenance of ETC function is related to subunit import and assembly of the complex. The disulfide relay mechanism controlled by the apoptosis inducing factor/coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain-containing protein 4（AIF/CHCHD4) pathway can regulate mitochondrial protein import. The results showed that AIF expression in SGNs decreased after noise exposure, indicating that noise damage to SGNs can restoreintramitochondrial protein input by downregulating the AIF/CHCHD4 pathway, hinderingETC function.
Conclusion: After noise injury, the mitochondrial function markers, ATP and complexes II/IV down-expressed , indicating insufficiency of ECT function leaded to delay injured SGNs. And the down-regulation of AIF/CHCHD4 function was a possible mechanism that hindered ECT function.
Ofatumumab, a fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, in the treatment of Severe Refractory Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Encephalitis：two case reports
Authors: Xue Hongfei , Jiang Yushu , Qin Lingzhi , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Milan , Dai Shuhua , Teng Yongshi , Xu Jiajia , Li Wei
Published: February 2023

Background

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a type of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) characterized by antibodies against NMDA receptor. As the most common autoimmune encephalitis, anti-NMDAR encephalitis, affects 54% ~ 80% of patients with AE. It is associated with a high percentage of severe illness. It typically manifests as behavioural and psychiatric disturbance, epilepsy, cognitive decline, decreased level of consciousness, involuntary movements, autonomic dysfunction, and central hypoventilation, et.al.

Case presentation

We report two refractory anti-NMDAR encephalitis. One of them decribes a case of anti-NMDA encephalitis coexisting with MOG antibodies. The two patients were administered first-line therapy with glucocorticoids and intravenous immunoglobulin but did not improved clinically. Therefore, the patient was switched to the fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, ofatumumab. Their consciousness, behavioural and psychiatric disturbance, and capacity to conduct daily tasks improved markedly after sequential therapy with ofatumumab, as demonstrated by the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score.

Conclusion

For the first time, we report a successful approach to the treatment of refractory anti-NMDAR encephalitis using the fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody ofatumumab, which serves as an important reference for the treatment of autoimmune encephalitis.
Diagnostic value of left atrial strain in heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Fekih Ridha , Antit Saoussen , Abdelhedi Marwa , Dridi Kalthoum , Boussabeh Elhem , Zakhama Lilia
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Despite different ultrasound parameters, left ventricular filling pressures (LVFP) assessment remains inconclusive in some cases. We aimed to determine the contribution of left atrial strain (LAS) in estimating LVFP in patients suspected of having heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Methods: This was a monocentric study, carried out in the cardiology department of the Interior Security Forces Hospital of Marsa, between October 2021 and March 2022. Patients had a physical examination, a biological assessment and an ultrasound examination at rest and, if necessary, during exercise. We investigated the performance of LAS components (Peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) and conduit function (FnC) in predicting LVFP rising.
Results: We enrolled 73 patients. The mean age was 61 ± 12 years old with a female predominance (57.5%). The median PALS was 29.3% [21.4-32.4]. The mean PACS and FnC values were 13.4% ±4.9 and 13.7% ±4.7, respectively. patients were categorized into two finals groups according to LVFP: Group A= high LVFP at rest or during exercise (25=34%) and Group B= not-high LVFP at rest and during exercise (48=66%). Patients with high LVFP, had lower LAS parameters and higher NT-Pro BNP levels. LAS had negative correlations with the E/e' ratio and NT-Pro BNP. PALS was an independent predictor of LVFP raising (HR= 0.711; 95% CI: 0.513-0.986; p= 0.041).
Conclusion: LAS is a simple, reproducible and sensitive ultrasound parameter for the diagnosis of HFpEF.
APLN/APJ may act as a Novel Diagnostic Marker and a Potential Therapeutic Target for Infantile Hemangioma
Authors: Chen Qiang , Li Jiwei , Ni Sili , Xie Yimin , Yuan Xingang , Luo Xiaoyan , Wang Hua
Published: February 2023

Background: Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common benign tumor in children with the characteristics of endothelial cells (ECs) proliferation and natural regression, and recent evidence shows that abnormal proliferation of ECs of IH is closely related to Apelin and Apelin receptor (APLN/APJ). This study aimed to evaluate and compare the immunoexpression of APLN/APJ and angiogenic index about IH, and establish the specificity with the histomorphology.
Methods: 3 IHs（proliferating）, 3 IHs（involuting）, 3 congenital hemangiomas (CHs), 3 pyogenic granulomas (PGs), 3 capillary malformations (CMs), and 3 venous malformations (VMs) were submitted to morphological and immunohistochemical analysis. APLN/APJ expression was semi-quantitatively evaluated, and the angiogenic index was assessed by microvessel counts (MVC).
Results: Higher APLN/APJ immunoexpression was observed in the proliferating phase of IHs compared to the involuting phase of IHs (p ＜ 0.05). Compared with CD31, APJ/APLN only expressed in proliferating and partial involuting phases of IHs; Compared with GLUT-1, APLN/APJ was expressed specifically in IH vascular ECs. APLN/APJ expression and angiogenic index significantly correlated in the IHs study.
Conclusions: our research suggests that the expression of APLN/APJ in IH is specific, and may reflect the influence on the initiation and regulation of IH, which can be used as a new specific antibody for clinical pathological diagnosis and a new target for clinical treatment.
25-Hydroxycholesterol and 27-hydroxycholesterol induce neuroinflammation by activating microglia
Authors: Son Yonghae , Yeo In Jun , Hong Jin Tae , Eo Seong-Kug , Kim Koanhoi
Published: February 2023

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels and side-chain oxygenated cholesterol molecules (oxysterols) are elevated in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and high cholesterol levels increase the risk of AD. However, roles of high cholesterol and side-chain oxysterols in IL-1β expression remain to be determined. Therefore, we investigated whether side-chain oxysterols such as 24s-hydroxycholesterol (24sOHChol), 25-hydroxycholsterol (25OHChol), and 27-hydroxycholesterol (27OHChol) along with cholesterol are involved in IL-1β expression. Treatment of microglial HMC3 cells with 25OHChol and 27OHChol induced IL-1β expression at both the transcript and protein levels. 25OHChol and 27OHChol also upregulated the surface expression of MHC class II (MHC II), a marker of activated microglia. In contrast, cholesterol and 24sOHChol did not increase IL-1β transcript levels or MHC II surface expression. 25OHChol and 27OHChol more potently increased IL-1β transcript levels than oligomeric amyloid beta. Polymyxin B impaired IL-1β expression induced by lipopolysaccharides, but not by 25OHChol and 27OHChol. Both oxysterols enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt, ERK, and Src, and inhibition of the kinase pathways by LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor), U0126 (a MEK inhibitor), and PP2 (an Src kinase inhibitor) impaired the expression of IL-1β and MHC II. We also investigated microglial activation under condition of hypercholesterolemia which enhances oxysterol concentration. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased microglial expression of IL-1β and MHC II, as determined by their co-immunoreactivity with Iba-1, in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. These results indicate that 25OHChol and 27OHChol activate the microglia to secrete IL-1β and the activation requires multiple signaling pathways. Because IL-1β is a key cytokine that drives inflammation in the brain, we suggest that elevated levels of 25OHChol and 27OHChol function as immunosterols, inducing neuroinflammation in patients with AD, and thereby are involved in the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Distribution and removal of antibiotic resistance genes in urban and rural wastewater treatment systems in northern China
Authors: Wang Yali , Qi Yuxuan , Wang Xiaoxiao , kang le , Wang Hongjie
Published: February 2023

Sewage treatment plants, as the "source" and "sink" of antibiotics, contained abundant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In this study, it was investigated the distribution of five typical ARGs, environmental correlation, and microbial community in six urban and two rural sewage treatment plants, located at the northern city of China (Baoding). The results showed that TetC and sulⅢ were the predominant ARGs in all samples with average 7.21×106, 1.5×106 copies/mL. Pearson correlation analysis showed that ARGs were closely correlation with TN, TP and NH4+. Furthermore, the co-occurrence patterns between ARGs and bacterial genera revealed 14 potential hosts bacterial genera for ARGs in activated sludge, which might promote the spread and transfer of resistance genes. This study provided comprehensive clarify and highlight the necessity for scientific strategies to control ARGs propagation and improve ARGs elimination.
Role of ‘Viyaru’ cyclone on the basin-scale variability of Bay of Bengal
Authors: Podapati Gopi Krishna , Pentakota Sreenivas , Gade Sagar V. , Ramu Dandi A. , Krishna SSVS. Rama , KVSR Prasad
Published: February 2023

The Bay of Bengal (BoB) is a potentially active region for the formation of the Tropical Cyclones (TCs) and accounts for about 6% of the global annual total number of tropical storms. These TCs occur during the pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (October-November) seasons over the BoB. Among all the pre-monsoon cyclones that occurred from 1993 to 2019, we have identified that the “Viyaru” is a typical one originated in the southern BoB, propagated approximately through the middle of the bay, and made landfall over the northern BoB. The cyclonic storm Viyaru caused a basin-scale sea surface cooling of 0.35°C by increasing the mixed layer depth by 3.5 m over the Bay of Bengal. An analysis of mixed layer heat budget terms infers that reduced short wave radiation and increased latent heat fluxes as the key factors responsible for basin-wide cooling associated with the Viyaru cyclone. We have also found that the enhanced entrainment processes even after the dissipation of the Viyaru cyclone had resulted in a post-cyclone basin-wide cooling tendency over the Bay of Bengal. The present study exemplifies the role of a pre-monsoon cyclone (Viyaru) in impacting the Bay of Bengal basin-scale variability of surface Physical Oceanographic variables and associated processes.
Entecavir versus tenofovir on recurrence of hepatitis B virus–related hepatocellular carcinoma in liver transplantation
Authors: Kim Deok-Gie , Choi YoungRok , Rhu Jinsoo , Hwang Shin , You Young Kyoung , Kim Dong-Sik , Nah Yang Won , Kim Bong-Wan , Cho Jai Young , Kang Koo Jeong , Yang Jae Do , Choi Donglak , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo , Ryu Je Ho , Lee Jae Geun
Published: February 2023

Background

Considerable controversy exists regarding the superiority of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) over entecavir (ETV) for reducing the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to compare outcomes of ETV versus TDF after liver transplantation (LT) in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC.

Methods

We performed a multicenter observational study using data from the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry. A total of 845 patients who underwent LT for HBV-related HCC were divided into two groups according to oral nucleos(t)ide analogue used for HBV prophylaxis post-LT: ETV group (n = 393) and TDF group (n = 452). HCC recurrence and overall death were compared in naïve and propensity score (PS)-weighted populations, and the likelihood of these outcomes according to the use of ETV or TDF were analyzed with various Cox models.

Results

At 1, 3, and 5 years, the ETV and TDF groups had similar HCC recurrence-free survival (90.7%, 85.6%, and 84.1% vs. 90.9%, 84.6%, and 84.2%, respectively, P = 0.982) and overall survival (98.4%, 94.7%, and 93.5% vs. 99.3%, 95.8%, and 94.9%, respectively, P = 0.480). The PS-weighted population showed similar results. In Cox models involving covariates adjustment, PS-weighting, competing risk regression, and time-dependent covariates adjustment, both groups showed a similar risk of HCC recurrence and overall death. In subgroup analyses stratified according to HCC burden (Milan criteria, Up-to-7 criteria, French alpha-fetoprotein risk score), pretransplantation locoregional therapy, and salvage LT, neither ETV nor TDF was superior.

Conclusion

ETV and TDF showed mutual non-inferiority for HCC outcomes when used for HBV prophylaxis after LT.
Mood symptoms and chronic fatigue syndrome due to relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis are associated with immune activation and aberrations in the erythron.
Authors: Almulla Abbas F. , Jaleel Al-Karrar Kais Abdul , Algon Ali Abbas Abo , Tunvirachaisakul Chavit , Hassoun Hayder K. , Al-Hakeim Hussein K. , Maes Michael
Published: February 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune and neuroinflammatory disease of the central nervous system characterized by peripheral activation of immune-inflammatory pathways which culminate in neurotoxicity causing demyelination of central neurons. Nonetheless, the pathophysiology of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)-related chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairments, and autonomic disturbances is not well understood. The current study aims to delineate whether the remitted phase of RRMS is accompanied by activated immune-inflammatory pathways and if the latter, coupled with erythron variables, explain the chronic fatigue and mood symptoms due to RRMS. We recruited 63 MS patients, 55 in the remitted phase of RRMS and 8 with secondary progressive MS, and 30 healthy controls and assessed erythron variables and used a bio-plex assay to measure 27 serum cytokines. The results indicate a significant part of the MS patients (46%) displayed activation of the immune-inflammatory response (IRS) and compensatory immune response (CIRS) systems, T helper (Th)1 and Th-17 cytokine profiles. Remitted RRMS patients showed increased chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, physiosomatic, autonomic, and insomnia scores, which could partly be explained by M1 macrophage, Th1, Th-17, growth factor, and CIRS activation, as well as aberrations in the erythron including lowered hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. In conclusion, around 50% of remitted RRMS patients show activation of immune-inflammatory pathways in association with mood and chronic-fatigue-like symptoms. IRS and CIRS activation as well as the aberrations in the erythron are new drug targets to treat chronic fatigue and affective symptoms due to MS.
Cancer Survivors with Sub-Optimal Patient-Centered Communication Prior to and During the Early COVID Pandemic
Authors: Kim Jiyeong , Fairman Nathan P. , Dove Melanie S. , Hoch Jeffrey S. , Keegan Theresa H.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Patient-Centered Communication (PCC) is an essential element of patient-centered cancer care. However, our knowledge of recent PCC performance among cancer survivors is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of optimal PCC and characterize the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with optimal PCC in recent years, including during the initial SARS/COVID-19 (COVID) epidemic.

Methods

This study used nationally representative cross-survey data (Health Information National Trends Survey, 2017 to 2020) among cancer survivors (n = 2,579). We calculated the prevalence of optimal PCC of each domain (%) and the overall PCC prevalence (mean score) by time (pre-COVID, 2017-19 vs. COVID, 2020). Multivariable-adjusted weighted logistic regression models were developed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of optimal PCC for each domain, as well as the overall outcome.

Results

The prevalence of optimal PCC decreased in most domains during COVID compared to pre-COVID up to 7.3% (managing uncertainty). Cancer survivors who reported psychological distress (ORs = 0.45–0.67 little interest or nervousness), did not have a usual source of care (ORs = 1.77–2.34), or were male (ORs = 1.40–1.78) were less likely to have optimal PCC in most domains as well as the overall PCC assessments.

Conclusions

We identified subgroups of vulnerable cancer survivors with sub-optimal PCC during COVID.
Association of hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio and depression: a cross sectional study
Authors: Xi Lijuan , Zhou Jiajie , Xu Peirong , Zhang Yan , Zhu pinting , Tu Jiayuan , Sun Qiannan , Fang Fang
Published: February 2023

Objectives
We aimed to explore the association between hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) and the depression.
Methods
Depression, general characteristics, life style, medical history, drug use, blood indicators were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2018 to assess the relationship between HRR and depression. Two sample kolmogorove-smirnov test, chi-square test, spearman correlation, multiple linear regression and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were analysed.
Results
31784 participants were included and the incidence rate of depression was 9.05%. HRR was significant lower in low depression group and positive associated with depression(P < 0.05). Multiple linear regression showed that HRR was associated with depression after adjusted for general characteristics, life style, medical history, drug use and blood indicators (P < 0.05). The cutoff value of HRR for depression is 1.090 and the Youden index, sensitivity, and specificity of HRR to depression is higher than hemoglobin (Hb) and red blood cell distribution width ratio (RDW).
Conclusions
HRR, powerful than Hb or RDW, is an independent risk factor for depression. Clinicians should focus on the HRR to improve depression.
Performance Analysis of various Pre-Equalization techniques for Visible Light Communication
Authors: R Priyadharshini , A Sivanantha Raja
Published: February 2023

Visible Light Communication (VLC) is a well known emerging technology for indoor communication that has drawn more attention in recent years. The name itself indicates that the medium to transfer data in VLC technology is the light that travels in free space. During VLC Inter-Symbol Interference (ISI) in free space channel occurs due to reflectivity of surfaces like walls and ceiling. In order to overcome this problem an inverse filter called equalizer is placed. Equalizers are feasible solution to improve the transmission performance. In this paper, the performance of VLC system is analyzed with various pre-equalization techniques using Optisystem V.16 simulation tool for a practically measured parameters since the spectrum of LED required equalization. This simulation is carried out by placing various equalizers such as Spaced Feed Forward Equalizer, Fractionally Spaced Feed Forward Equalizer, Decision Feedback Equalizer, Combination of both Feed Forward and Decision Feedback Equalizer and Adaptive Equalizer at transmitter side for different bitrates and different link ranges. With adaptive pre-equalization, this VLC system can support 2 Gbps data rate up to 5 m range with a Q factor of 8.52. Under the influence of external white light (noise) of power − 80dBm and below, the proposed system works well. Above − 80dBm, the modulated light is disturbed, so that the data obtained is slightly degraded.
Bioinformatic analysis identifying Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related genes as a new diagnostic and prognostic indicator in clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Haitao , Bai Xuesong , Yin Hubin , Li Xinyuan , Zhou Xiang , He Weiyang , Kuang Youlin , Gou Xin , Li Jie
Published: February 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide, and its incidence is increasing year by year. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) caused by protein misfolding has broad and profound effects on the progression and metastasis of various cancers. Accumulating evidence suggests that ERS-related genes are closely related to the occurrence and progression of ccRCC. This study aimed to identify ERS-related signature genes for evaluating the prognosis of ccRCC patients. Transcriptomic expression profiles of patients with ccRCC from public databases Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and survival data and clinical phenotype data of patients in the TCGA database were used. Then the GeneCards database was used to identify the differentially expressed genes related to ERS. We obtained 11 signature genes, and then used the Lasso regression method to establish a diagnostic model, univariate and multivariate Cox analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the expression levels of the signature genes and the clinical characteristics, and finally 5 signature genes were associated with poor prognosis (TNFSF13B, APOL1, COL5A3, CDH5）. In summary, this study suggests that these genes may have potential as prognostic biomarkers in ccRCC and may provide new evidence to support targeted therapy in ccRCC.
Reaction of common bean genotypes to Sclerotium root rot (Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.) under screen house conditions in Uganda
Authors: Tilahun Nigat , Edema Richard , Mukankusi Clare , Tolosa Kidist , Abebe Desta , Gibson Paul
Published: February 2023

Sclerotium root rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. is one of the major soil-borne diseases of common bean in Uganda and many other countries. An incidence and severity of 100% and 84% respectively, has been reported in the common bean production environments in Uganda. The use of resistant cultivars is reported as the most efficient management strategy against root rot diseases. A few breeding lines showing good levels of resistance have been identified, however currently all released varieties in Uganda lack resistance to the disease. The objectives of this study were to enhance breeding for Sclerotium root rot resistance through validating the resistance in the identified breeding lines and identify new sources. A total of 72 genotypes with two checks (K132 and KWP 9) were evaluated under screen house at NaCRRI (2017A & 2017B) with 9 x10 alpha-lattice design arrangement by three replications. Each genotype was planted in a wooden tray containing pre-sterilized soil inoculated with matured LWE 336-1 Sclerotium isolate. Germination and disease severity were assessed 14 and 28 days after planting (DAP), respectively. The result showed significant (P < 0.001) difference among genotypes both for germination percentage and disease severity, suggesting that substantial genetic variation among the evaluated genotypes. The breeding lines: KWP 12, KWP 17, KWP 9, and ALB 171 were confirmed to be resistance and RRA 41 was identified as a new source of resistance. These genotypes were therefore recommended for further utilization in common bean breeding program to improve Sclerotium root rot resistance in Ugandan susceptible varieties.
On the Propagation of Sound Waves in a Vacuum
Authors: Lauter Robert
Published: February 2023

Until the discovery of the accelerated expansion of the universe in the late 1990s, the great majority of physicists were convinced that there was not any kind of sound in any kind of vacuum. The latter specification is necessary because nowadays we discuss whether there is the possibility that sound actually does propagate in space which is free of ordinary matter but filled with “dark energy”. The term “vacuum” for such kind of empty space is avoided by most authors as it remains reserved for models of empty space in which the cosmological constant acts as a source of vacuum energy.Before this discussion started, evidence for vanishing propagation of sound in a vacuum apparently aroused from an experiment designed by Otto von Guericke in the 17th century although his intention was merely to show that a vacuum actually does exist. This article will show that the interpretation of this experiment as a proof for vanishing sound-propagation in a vacuum has been a fundamental philosophical mistake and furthermore that any theoretical investigations of sound in space which is free of any kind of matter may require a quantum-theoretical approach.
Continuum mechanics from an observer's viewpoint
Authors: Belevich Michael
Published: February 2023

A variant of the relativistic continuum mechanics with the measureis presented. The theory satisfies the following principles: the causalityprinciple, the general covariance principle, the correspondence principle,and Einstein's principle of relativity. The group analysis of theresulting equations shows that they admit the Poincarй group of transformations,and appear to be Lorentz-invariant. The measure conservation law isthe basis of the discussed theory, and the observer is its necessarycomponent.
The theory does not imply any speed limitation of an object. Arbitraryvalues of velocity are admissible. However, since the velocity ofan object is being measured using the signal propagating with somefinite speed, this latter speed in fact acts as a limit for the measuredvelocities of objects. This is due to the fact that objects movingfaster than the speed of the signal (information propagation) eitherbecome unobservable, or their measured velocity turns out to be seemingand does not exceed the signal speed.
Various options for synchronization and construction of spaces ofsimultaneous events are considered. Another distinctive feature ofthe constructed environment model is the smaller number of postulatedstatements. For example, the total energy conservation law holds.However, it is not postulated, as in the classical fluid model., butfollows from the mass conservation law and, therefore, is a theorem.Also, local thermodynamic equilibrium does not require postulation. Finally, the second law of thermodynamics does not hold in the caseswhen the speed of the signal providing the observer with informationabout the phenomenon under study is less than the speed of the object. Such behavior is corroborated using the corresponding numerical models,in particular, based on the explicit difference methods. A similarphenomenon is known as the absence of stability of the numerical algorithm.
Two levels of description within the considered model are demonstrated. This reflects the presence of two main physical interpretations ofthe developed theory - hydromechanical and electromagnetic.Both interpretations are discussed and corresponding systems of equationsare presented.
PACS numbers: 40., 47., 47.10.-g, 47.10.A-
Infinite-volume states with irreducible localization sets for gradient models on trees
Authors: Abbondandolo Alberto , Henning Florian , Kuelske Christof , Majer Pietro
Published: February 2023

We consider general classes of gradient models on regular trees with values in a countable Abelian group S such as Z or Zq, in regimes of strong coupling (or low temperature). This includes unbounded spin models like the p-SOS model and finite-alphabet clock models. We prove the existence of families of distinct homogeneous tree-indexed Markov chain Gibbs states μA whose single-site marginals concentrate on a given finite subset A ⊂ S of spin values, under a strong coupling condition for the interaction, depending only on the cardinality |A| of A. The existence of such states is a new and robust phenomenon which is of particular relevance for infinite spin models. These states are not convex combinations of each other, and in particular the states with |A| ≥ 2 can not be decomposed into homogeneous Markov-chain Gibbs states with a single-valued concentration center. As a further application of the method we obtain moreover the existence of new types of Z-valued gradient Gibbs states, whose single-site marginals do not localize, but whose correlation structure depends on the finite set A.
MSC2020 subject classifications: 82B26 (primary); 60K35 (secondary)
Impact of non-proteinogenic amino acid norvaline and proteinogenic valine misincorporation on a secondary structure of a model peptide
Authors: Škibola Zara , Sovulj Ita Gruić , Maršavelski Aleksandra
Published: February 2023

Norvaline is a straight-chain, hydrophobic, non-proteinogenic
amino acid, isomeric with valine. Both amino acids can be
misincorporated into proteins at isoleucine positions by
isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase when the mechanisms of translation
fidelity are impaired. Our previous study showed that the
proteome-wide substitution of isoleucine with norvaline resulted in
higher toxicity in comparison to the proteome-wide substitution of
isoleucine with valine. Although mistranslated proteins/peptides
are considered to have non-native structures responsible for their
toxicity, the observed difference in protein stability between
norvaline and valine misincorporation has not yet been fully
understood. To examine the observed effect, we chose the model
peptide with three isoleucines in the native structure, introduced
selected amino acids at isoleucine positions and applied
molecular-dynamics simulations at different temperatures. The
obtained results showed that norvaline has the highest destructive
effect on the β-sheet structure and suggested that the higher
toxicity of norvaline over valine is predominantly due to the
misincorporation within the β-sheet secondary elements.
Mechanical and thermal properties of a nanocomposite made of a polymer matrix reinforced by a binary nanoparticle TiO2 - SiO2 produced by sol-gel method
Authors: zahrouni Aymen , Benammar Ikram , Harzallah Omar , Bistac Sophie , Rached Salhi
Published: February 2023

This study investigated the effect of adding 5% wt of SiO2-TiO2 nanoparticles to polyester-fiberglass on the structural, mechanical and thermal behaviours of the nanocomposite. For this purpose, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to examine the surface modification and morphology of the nanocomposites. After the heat treatment of this materialat different compositions, it was observed that its crystalline state was changed and a rutile structure appeared in the treated nanofillers. However, the presence of SiO2 seemed to prevent the complete conversion to this structure. Hence, this change in the microstate affected the mechanical and behavior of the nanocomposite. Indeed, theaddition of 5% wt divided in 75%SiO2-25%TiO2 to the nanocomposite increasedits Young’s modulus by 15.15% and its microhardness by 14%. Furthermore, in terms of thermal behaviour, the addition of 5% wt divided in 75%SiO2-25%TiO2 yieldeda thermal resistance of TG = 49.66 °C.
These results would imply the production of nanocomposite with a specific high resistance, a high modulus and a good fatigue resistance which would present a potential replacement for other materials in various industrial applications.
Comparative Performance of Prostephanus Truncatus(Horn) (Coleoptera:bostrichidae) on Different Processed Varieties of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta(Crantz)) Chips Treated With Zingiber Officinale and Deltamethin
Authors: Ejiofor MaryGeraldine Ebele , Okonkwo Nnaemeka Joe
Published: February 2023

In Africa, Prostephanus truncatus is a destructive pest of economic importance which has deteriorative effects on dry cassava chips in storage. The present study investigates the effects of Zingiber officinale on P.truncatus on dried cassava chips processed in two methods. Deltamethrin was used as the reference insecticide. The plant extract was used at different concentrations (500ul/ml, 250ul/ml, 125ul/ml, 62.5ul/ml, 0ul/ml(control) and 0.05ul/ml(reference)). The cassava varieties used are TME 419 and TMS 98/0581. the cassava varieties were cut into cubes and subjected to two processing methods, parboiling and unparboiling (plain). Percentage emergence was assesed as thus, 100g of cassava chips were put in a plastic plate. 10 unsexed adult of P.truncatus were introduced into each plate and left for 14days to oviposit, after which the insects were removed , the chips were thereafter treated with Z.officinale at (500ul/ml, 250ul/ml, 125ul/ml, 62.5ul/ml, 0ul/ml(control) and 0.05ul/l(Deltamethrin). The plates were covered with muslin cloth held with a rubber band and left to stand for 25 days. Afterwhich the percentage emergence was assessed, by counting. All the data generated were subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) in Genstat package 9.2 (9th edition). Difference between mean values were separated using least significant difference (LSD) at P<0.05 (Finney 1971). The result of the experiment showed that Z.officinale conferred greater protection to the chips at higher concentrations of 250ul/ml and 500ul/ml , its effects were similar to the reference insecticide. Processing methods recorded a great significance(P <0.05) .