bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polystyrene nanoplastic exposure enhances LPS-induced lung inflammation in mice by inducing M1 polarization of macrophages via ROS/JAK/STAT signaling pathway
Authors: Fan Xue , Xu Tong , Peng Lin , Tang Xinyu , Chi Qianru , Li Zhe , Shi Guangliang , Li Shu
Published: September 2022

Nanoplastics (NPs) are an emerging environmental pollutant. NPs can spike various tissues results to oxidative stress and tissue damage in organisms. While recent studies have reported a relationship between nanoparticles and respiratory system injury, the specific mechanism of NP exposure-induced lung damage remains to be explored. In the present study, C57BL6 male mice were treated intraperitoneal injection of PS-NPs and/or LPS. The relevant indicators were detected by HE staining, western blotting and qRT-PCR. RAW264.7 was pretreated with JAK2 inhibitor (AG490) to verify whether the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway is involved in PS-NPs exposure enhances LPS-induced pulmonary inflammatory response. We found decreased antioxidant capacity in mice lungs, activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, and the expression levels of macrophage M1 marker genes increased (including CD16, CD86, and MCP1), while macrophage M2 marker genes (including CD206, PPARγ, and Arg1) expression levels decreased, resulting in a macrophage M1/M2 imbalance. In addition, PS-NPs can increase the expression of inflammation-related factors IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6. In in vitro experiments, we obtained similar results to in vivo experiments. More importantly, the JAK2 pathway inhibitor AG490 reversed ROS-induced changes in macrophage imbalance and inflammation in PS-NPs and LPS-exposed RAW264.7 cells. In conclusion, PS-NPs activated the ROS/JAK/STAT pathway, aggravated LPS-induced lung M1/M2 macrophage imbalance and promoted inflammatory responses. Our results enrich the toxic effects and related molecular mechanisms of NPs-induced lung inflammation, and provide new insights into the toxic effects of NPs on mammals.
An evaluation of seasonal and spatial variation of water quality parameters of the Mamloo Reservoir in Iran by multivariable analysis
Authors: Naderi H. , Javid A. H. , Borgheic Seyed M. , Eslamizadehd M.
Published: September 2022

Lakes and reservoirs have a remarkable role in specifying the ecological environment, public health and socio-economic development. The devastating impacts, of human activities, related to the water quality of these resources, have remarkably elevated in the recent decades. The objectives of this study, is to evaluate the water quality of the Mamloo Dam reservoir (MDR), comprehensively, by analyzing seasonal and spatial modifications of the 10 focal water quality parameters at the four sampling points in 2019. An analysis of the spatial behavior of the parameters was executed in the reservoir the by using the Inverse Distance Weighting Interpolation Approach. The Pearson correlation was carried out, to explore the correlation and attain a better description, in relative to the behavior of the entire parameters of water quality. Ten of the principal components (PC) were obtained, which described 99 percent of the total data changes approximately. The Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI), demonstrated the presence of eutrophic conditions in the entire sampling stations of the MDR. A survey of the spatial behavior of water quality parameters validates the impact of human and natural activities in the watershed basin, in relevance with the quality of water. Ultimately, the results which have come to hand portrayed that, if in the case, there is an absence of an appropriate and desirable management, a threat of an exacerbation of contamination in the water body, as well as a dramatic degradation of the ecosystem in the reservoir, could be extremely probable.
Ingestion of rubber tips of artificial turf field by goldfish
Authors: Chiba Rihito , Fujinuma Ryosuke , Yoshitomi Tomoyasu , Shimizu Yasuo , Kobayashi Makito
Published: September 2022

Marine microplastic is one of the global environmental issues. The present study examined whether rubber tips of artificial sports fields could be marine microplastic. We observed the migration of rubber tips from the artificial turf field to the surrounding ditch connected to sewer pipes and then examined the ingestion of rubber tips using goldfish Carassius auratus. The rubber tips found in sediments in the ditch suggest that the rubber tips could be sent to the river and released into the ocean. The goldfish ingested rubber tips with or without fish feed, and rubber tips are found in the intestine. However, the fish discharged the rubber tips within 48 h after the ingestion. These results indicate that ingestion of the rubber tips was not accidental but active behavior. Therefore, the artificial turf sports fields could be a source of marine microplastic and may cause hazardous effects on wild fishes through ingestion.
Fast Reconstruction Method of Three-dimension Model Based on Dual RGB-D Cameras for Peanut Plant
Authors: Liu Yadong , Yuan Hongbo , Zhao Xin , Fan Caihu , Cheng Man
Published: September 2022

Plant shape and structure are important factors in peanut breeding research. Constructing a three-dimension (3D) model can provide an effective digital tool for comprehensive and quantitative analysis of peanut plant structure. A 3D reconstruction method based on dual RGB-D cameras was proposed for the peanut plant 3D model quickly and accurately. The two Kinect v2 were mirror symmetry placed on both sides of the peanut plant, and the point cloud data obtained were filtered twice to remove noise interference. After rotation and translation based on the corresponding geometric relationship, the point cloud acquired by the two Kinect v2 was converted to the same coordinate system and spliced into the 3D structure of the peanut plant. The experiment was conducted at various growth stages based on twenty potted peanuts. The plant traits’ height, width, length, and volume were calculated through the reconstructed 3D models, and manual measurement was carried out at the same time. The accuracy of the 3D model was evaluated through a synthetic coefficient, which was generated by calculating the average accuracy of the four traits. The test result shows that the synthetic accuracy of the reconstructed peanut plant 3D model by this method is 93.42%. A comparative experiment with the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm, a widely used 3D modeling algorithm, was additionally implemented to test the rapidity of this method. The test result shows that the proposed method is 2.54 times faster with approximated accuracy compared to the ICP method. This approach should be useful for 3D modeling and phenotyping peanut breeding.
A life cycle assessment of drilling waste management in Russia
Authors: Ilinykh Galina , Fellner Johann , Sliusar Natalia , Korotaev Vladimir
Published: September 2022

Oil production is currently impossible without drilling wells, so millions of tons of drilling waste contaminated with oil, chlorides, and heavy metals are generated every year in Russia alone. This article presents the results of a comparative life cycle assessment of water-based drill cuttings management technologies applied in Russia, including disposal, solidification, and reinjection. Life cycle assessment of the drilling waste management was performed using OpenLCA software, Ecoinvent 3.8 database and ReCiPe Midpoint (H) impact assessment method. Data from oil producing companies on the composition of drilling waste and information from drilling waste treatment companies on the technologies and reagents used were also applied. To compare alternative technologies the following scenarios were compared: Scenario 0 «Landspreading», scenario 1 «Disposal», scenario 2 «Solidification» (scenario 2a – in a waste pit, scenario 2b – without a waste pit), and scenario 3 «Reinjection». Sensitivity analysis was performed to test for variations in results for oilfields located in different regions. Results and discussion: The environmental impact of scenario 0 depends mostly on drilling waste composition, which is largely determined by human toxicity. In scenario 1, sand extraction and transportation, excavator and bulldozer operations were the most impactful processes. Among all scenarios, 2a and 2b have the biggest environmental impact in most categories. The production of cement and lime for drilling waste solidification was the main contributor to fossil depletion (64% of the total amount for scenario 2a and 54% for scenario 2b), and greenhouse gas emissions (49% of the total amount for scenario 2a and 70% for scenario 2b). The main contributor in scenario 3 is electricity production. Oilfield location does not affect the data for reinjection, but the impact assessment changes up to 60% for drill cutting disposal due to different waste pit design depending on permafrost and groundwater levels. Drilling waste landspreading is only the best option if the level of pollutants in the waste is very low. Among the other scenarios of drill cuttings management aimed at isolating pollutants from the environment, solidification technologies have the greatest environmental impact, primarily due to their use of binders. However, the application of soil-like material (solidified drill cuttings) as an inert ground in swampy areas can make migration of heavy metals possible. So, reinjection is associated with the least impact on the environment.
Comparison of genetic susceptibility to lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in Japanese patients using a novel panel for cancer-related drug- metabolizing enzyme genes
Authors: Ohnami Sumiko , Naruoka Akane , Mizuguchi Maki , Nakatani Sou , Kamada Fukumi , Shimoda Yuji , Sakai Ai , Ohshima Keiichi , Hatakeyama Keiichi , Maruyama Kouji , Isaka Mitsuhiro , Ohde Yasuhisa , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Takahashi Toshiaki , Akiyama Yasuto , Nagashima Takeshi , Urakami Kenichi , Ohnami Shumpei , Yamaguchi Ken
Published: September 2022

The differences in genetic susceptibility to lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are unclear. Hence, we developed a customized, targeted gene sequencing panel for efficient and sensitive identification of germline variants, including whole-gene deletion types for cancer-related drug-metabolizing enzyme genes in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The minor allele frequencies of the variants, confirmed as clinically significant in the Japanese population, did not differ significantly from those of normal participants listed in the public database. Genotype analysis comparing lung adenocarcinoma (n = 559) and squamous cell carcinoma (n = 151) indicated that the variants of DPYD (rs190771411, Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.045; rs200562975, P = 0.045) and ALDH2 (rs568781254, P = 0.032) were associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma compared to adenocarcinoma. Conversely, whole-gene deletion of CYP2A6 was associated with adenocarcinoma but not squamous cell carcinoma. Notably, whole-gene deletion of CYP2A6 was confirmed in 22 patients with lung adenocarcinoma but in no patients with squamous cell carcinoma. The majority of patients with whole-gene deletion of CYP2A6 were female non-smokers. The discovery of a whole-gene deletion of CYP2A6 in patients with lung adenocarcinoma may have an important role in clinical practice and advance our understanding of CYP2A6 germline variants and their association with carcinogenesis or their susceptibility to lung adenocarcinoma.
FAM83B promotes the invasion of primary lung adenocarcinoma via PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Jiajia , Yue Ke , Li Panpan , Shen Wenping , Qiao Xiaowen , Wang Yan , Wu Xiaojuan
Published: September 2022

Objects: The family with sequence similarity 83B (FAM83B) is
one of the markers for poor prognosis in several carcinomas, but
the expression and the mechanism resulted in malignant phenotype in
lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain to be elucidated.

Methods: Data of RNA-seq in LUAD were downloaded from the
cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database for differential expression and
survival analysis, and immunohistochemistry was employed to analyze
the protein expression of FAM83B in 126 cases of primary LUAD. The
LUAD cell lines were collected for the detection of the effects on
migration and invasion. Then, western blot was performed to measure
the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1
and activation of PI3K/AKT/ NF-κB pathway.

Results: FAM83B was overexpressed in multiple types of
carcinomas; The differential expression analysis revealed that the
level of FAM83B was higher in LUAD than that in para-carcinoma; The
patients with overexpression of FAM83B were with shorter overall
survival (OS), disease specific survival (DSS) and progress free
interval (PFI); Enrichment analysis suggested it was related to the
focal adhesion of LUAD. Immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated
that higher FAM83B expression was positively related to lymph node
metastasis in primary. Scratch assay and Borden chamber assay
showed that the overexpression of FAM83B promoted migration and
invasion activity in vitro. Furthermore, high level of FAM83B
accelerated the tumorigenesis in vivo. Western blot showed that
TIMP-1 was upregulated in H1299/FAM83B OE cells accompanying by the
activation of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway.

Conclusions: FAM83B was a marker for poor prognosis of LUAD and
it might promote the expression of TIMP-1 by activating
PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway and then affect the ECM balance, which
resulted in the migration and invasion of LUAD.
Association of Air Pollution with Meteorological Factors during COVID-19 pandemic in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Singh Bhupendra Pratap , Dhalan Sumit Singh , Kumari Sweety , Razi Aasia
Published: September 2022

An unprecedented outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), leading to the pandemic, has affected almost all countries, adversely affecting human health and the environment. Nearly 2.3 billion people live in areas where air pollution levels are high, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region and more likely in countries such as India. Prolonged exposure to air pollution is known to have adverse effects on humans and the environment at large. The impact of health hazards on the environment warrants investigation of the correlation between air pollutants and COVID-19 spread. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of COVID-19 on fine particulate matter (PM), gaseous pollutants, and its potential implications on human health by considering short- and long-term impacts associated with meteorological factors in the Indian context. The current review suggests that the PM level has reduced (40–80%) in various Indian cities, which has led to a significant link in COVID-19 severity and lethality through its impact on chronic diseases, such as cardiopulmonary diseases and diabetes. In addition, the review addresses the effect of meteorological and climatic factors on COVID-19 health outcomes. In the current reviews suggested that the relationships between meteorological factors and COVID-19 transmission ceases could be affected by season, geographical scale, and latitude. Thus, the current review might be useful for the public, local authorities, and the Government to develop control measures for meteorological properties for better understanding to combat COVID-19.
Associations of mixed metals exposure with risk of cognitive impairment: A cross-sectional study in Chinese adults
Authors: Wang Jierui , Wang Weixuan , Zheng Gang , Shi Fan , Wu Shouling , Zhang Yanshu
Published: September 2022

Background
Associations between exposure to single metals and cognitive impairment or related outcomes have been reported in many previous studies. However, co-exposure to more than one metal is common situation. In recent years, studies on the effects of exposure to multiple metals on cognitive impairment or related outcomes have increased, but remain very limited, with a focus on populations with occupational exposure to metals, children and adolescents. The potential relationships between exposure to metal mixtures and risk of cognitive impairment in adults remain to be clarified.
Objectives
To investigate the associations of blood metal mixtures with risk of cognitive impairment.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1104 Chinese adults who underwent routine physical examination in the Kailuan General Hospital in Tangshan. The blood levels of lead (Pb), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) were measured by the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Multivariable logistic regression (MLR) models and Bayesian kernel function regression (BKMR) models were applied to assess the associations.
Results
A total of 218 participants (19.75%) were diagnosed with cognitive impairment. The median mini-mental state examination (MMSE) rating in cognitive impairment group (25 score) was significantly lower than that in normal cognitive function group (29score). Four metals (Pb, Fe, Cu and Mg) were positively associated with cognitive impairment in single-metal models. Pb and Cu remained significantly positive associations after adjusting for these six metals, with the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) in the highest quartiles of 9.51 (4.41–20.54, p-trend < 0.01) and 4.87 (2.17–10.95, p-trend < 0.01), respectively. The BKMR models showed that co-exposure levels of Pb, Fe, Cu, Ca, Mg, Zn were associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment when the metal mixtures were ≥ 25th percentile compared to their medians, and Pb and Cu were the major contributors to the joint effect. In addition, interaction effects of Mg and Pb, Pb and Cu on the risk of cognitive impairment were observed.
Conclusions
Co-exposure of six metals (Pb, Fe, Cu, Ca, Mg and Zn) increased the risk of cognitive impairment in Chinese adults, with Pb and Cu likely to have greater impact. Potential interaction effects of Mg and Pb, Pb and Cu on the risk of cognitive impairment may exist.
The impact of virulence factors on divergent lifestyle scourge of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Ramezanalizadeh Fatemeh , Rasooli Iraj , Owlia Parviz , Astaneh Alipour , Abdolhamidi Raziyeh
Published: September 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii is a multi-drug resistant pathogen with the ability to switch between planktonic and biofilm phenotypes. Although there is no vaccine against A. baumannii infections, many attempts have been made to develop vaccines using planktonic or biofilm antigens. To cover the different phenotypes of A. baumannii during growth and attachment, we combined planktonic upregulated antigens of iron receptors with biofilm upregulated antigens of pilus rods and evaluated immune responses and protective efficacies of the combined vaccine using lethal and sub-lethal murine sepsis models. The results showed that the combined vaccine elicited high IgG antibody titers and conferred protection against lethal doses of two Carbapenem- resistant high adherent A. baumannii strains. Complete bacterial clearance from all the affected tissues of the mice challenged with A. baumannii was an excellent achievement with our quadrivalent immunogen. These results demonstrate both planktonic and biofilm antigens are important during antigen selection for vaccine design.
Energy landscapes of Kodiak brown bears: A comparison of accelerometer and global positioning system derived estimates
Authors: Finnegan S. P. , Pagano A. M. , Svoboda N. J. , Schooler S. L. , Belant J. L.
Published: September 2022

Within optimal foraging theory animals should maximize their net energy gain while minimizing energetic costs. Energetic expenditure in wild animals is therefore key to measure proxies of fitness. Accelerometers are an effective tool to study animal movement-based energetics but retrieval of the device is usually required and often difficult. Measuring energetic expenditures using a global positioning system (GPS) approach could provide an alternative method to study energetic ecology. We compared accelerometer and GPS methods to estimate energetic expenditures in brown bears (Ursus arctos) on the Kodiak Archipelago, Alaska, USA. We then applied the GPS method to examine how intrinsic and extrinsic factors influenced brown bear movement-based daily energetic expenditures (MDEE). We predicted that bears would have greater energetic expenditures during the high food abundance period, while females with dependent young would have lower energetic expenditures due to reduced movements. We found that while the two energetic measurements differed (Wilcoxon signed rank test: V = 2116, p < 0.001), they were positively correlated (r = 0.82, p < 0.001). The GPS method on average provided 1.6 times greater energy estimates than did the accelerometer method. Brown bears had lower MDEE during periods of high food abundance, supporting optimal foraging theory. Reproductive status and age did not influence MDEE, however movement rates had a positive linear relationship with MDEE. Energetic ecology is important for understanding drivers of animal movements. A GPS-derived estimate of energetic expenditure may be suitable when accelerometer data are unavailable, but the GPS-derived estimate should be validated for the specific taxa, ecosystem, and GPS sampling rate used. Additionally, while movement-based estimates of energy expenditure can elucidate the mechanisms driving habitat use decisions, they may not fully reflect an animal’s overall energy demands. Brown bear movement-based energetic expenditure was influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors which highlighted the importance of access to prime foraging sites to enhance energetic efficiency.
Adherence to COVID-19 Protective Behaviors among Iranian Adults: Survey of the Role of Health Literacy and Health Belief Model
Authors: Babazadeh Towhid , Chollou Khalil Maleki , Shirzadi Shayesteh , Ranjbaran Soheila
Published: September 2022

Background
The coronavirus is one of the largest pandemics in the world that has occurred in recent years. The virus has so far killed millions of people around the world. To prevent the coronavirus, health behaviors are essential. Therefore, identifying the effective factors of coronavirus preventive behaviors can be effective in designing and implementing health interventions.
Methods
This study was a cross-sectional design that was implemented in Iran in 2021. Participants were recruited randomly from healthcare centers by medical records (n = 380, 64.7% female, mean age 32.14 years). The data collection included a demographic form, health literacy questionnaire, and Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) protective questionnaire. Analyses were adjusted for confounders using hierarchical regression analysis.
Results
According to the analysis, among participants COVID-19 preventive behaviors (CPBs) distributions, wearing masks was the highest and avoiding touching my face and do not leaving home were the lowest. Educational level, gender, perceive benefits, perceived barriers and self-efficacy trust were all significant predictors of COVID-19 protective behaviors. Also, among dimensions of the health literacy, all of them except decision-making were significant predictors of adherence to COVID-19 preventive behaviors. The most COVID-19 preventive behaviors distributions, among Iranian adults were wearing mask (66.3%) and covering mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing (44.2%) questions as “Always”.
Conclusions
this research shows health literacy and cognitive factors have a potential and determinative role in the health of patients with COVID-19. Wearing mask has been the highest preventive behavior in patients with COVID-19, which indicates the effect of educational level as demographic factors in these groups of patients. Therefore, these factors can be considered in prevention and treatment programs in health system.
High lymphocyte count as a significant risk factor for incisional hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Tamai Koki , Okamura Shu , Kamakura Yu , Koh Masahiro , Hayashi Koji , Katsura Yoshiteru , Hirose Hajime , Ebisui Chikara , Yano Masahiko
Published: September 2022

Background
In the era of laparoscopic surgery, incisional hernia (IH) is still one of the common problems after colorectal surgery. Various risk factors for IH have been evaluated to reduce the incidence, but the impact of nutrition for IH has not been well discussed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relation between the nutrition status and the development of IH after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 342 colorectal cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectomy between January 2012 and December 2018. Postoperative computed tomography was used to diagnose the IH. Patient characteristics including preoperative albumin and lymphocyte counts were evaluated for the risk of development of IH. Further investigations were added about the impact of nutrition status on development of IH in each of BMI under and over 25.0 kg/m2.
Results
IH was observed in 37 patients (10.8%) with median follow-up period of 48.5 months. Female (OR = 3.43, p < 0.01), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR = 2.92, p < 0.01), lymphocyte count ≥ 1798/µl (OR = 3.37, p < 0.01), and operative time ≥ 254 min (OR = 3.90, p < 0.01) had statistically significant relation to IH in multivariate analysis. Low albumin was related to IH in BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (p = 0.02), but was not in BMI < 25 kg/m2 (p = 0.21). On the other hand, high lymphocyte count was related to IH regardless of BMI (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2: p = 0.01, BMI < 25 kg/m2: p = 0.04).
Conclusions
The high preoperative lymphocyte count is independent risk factor for IH, whereas low albumin has limitation to predict IH.
Transcorporeal decompression using a fully-endoscopic anterior cervical approach to treat cervical spondylotic myelopathy: surgical design and clinical application
Authors: Ma Yanyan , Xin Zhijun , Kong Weijun , Zhang Longsheng , Du Qian , Liao Wenbo
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the common procedure for treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), but ACDF may cause pseudoarthrosis, accelerated degeneration of adjacent segments, loss of activity of fused segments and other complications. The full-endoscopic technique can treat CSM, without the complications mentioned above. Therefore, it is of great clinical value to investigate the surgical scheme of anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic transcorporeal decompression of the spinal cord (APFETDSC).
Methods
A total of 28 cases with single-segment Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) from April 2017 to July 2019 were involved in our study. The size of the disc-osteophyte complex were measured using imaging data prior to the operation. The diameter and direction of the bony passage was determined according to the size and central position of the complex, respectively. 28 patients underwent the above scheme for CSM. Clinical outcome evaluations included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores .Imaging assessment including MRI, CT and X-rays.
Results
The diameter of the designed bony passage was about 6.9 mm, and directed toward the lower edge of the diseased lower vertebral body oblique to the center of the disc-osteophyte complex. All patients successfully completed the operation. The postoperative neck pain VAS and JOA were significantly improved compared to preoperative values (p < 0.01). Postoperative MRI indicated complete decompression of the spinal cord. CT scanning one year after the operation revealed that an almost healed bony passage and X-ray imaging showed satisfactory physiological curvature of the cervical spine, without cervical instability.
Conclusion
Based on the diameter and direction of the bony passage, as determined by the size and position of the disc-osteophyte complex, as indicated by MRI and CT scanning, PEATCD offers good decompression of the spinal cord and ensures excellent therapeutic outcome.
Studies on natural fiber reinforced woven Ramie-Silk hybrid epoxy composites with OMMT in enhancing Interlaminar Shear Strength properties.
Authors: K Sadashiva , Bhanupratap R , Purushothama K M
Published: September 2022

This study looked into the importance of using Ramie, silk fibre, and nano clay in epoxy resin composites. The study's main purpose is to show the importance of naturally existing fibres and fillers when directed for use in laminated composites. The nano clay is of organo-montmorillonite (OMMT) grade and is used as a filler material. The ramie and silk fibres are used as reinforcement materials and epoxy as a matrix. The composites were created with 3 per cent nano clay reinforcement for the hand layup method for different designations of laminates like SSSS, RRRR, RSRS RSSR, and SRRS. To assess the composite's strength, the specimens are tested for mechanical parameters such as interlaminar shear strength and hardness by ASTM standards. ILLS tests revealed that a composite combining RSSR and RSRS laminates with 3% OMMT nano clay produced high interlaminar shear strength. In SEM images, proper adherence of the nano clay to the matrix as well as to the reinforcements can also be seen.
Meningioma in patients exposed to progestin drugs: results from a real-life screening program
Authors: Samoyeau Thomas , Provost Corentin , Roux Alexandre , Legrand Laurence , Dezamis Edouard , Plu-Bureau Geneviève , Pallud Johan , Oppenheim Catherine , Benzakoun Joseph
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To report the results of systematic meningioma screening program implemented by French authorities in patients exposed to progestin therapies (cyproterone (CPA), nomegestrol (NA), and chlormadinone (CMA) acetate).Methods: We conducted a prospective monocentric study on patients who, between September 2018 and April 2021, underwent standardized MRI (injection of gadolinium, then a T2 axial FLAIR and a 3D-T1 gradient-echo sequence) for meningioma screening.Results: Of the 210 included patients, 15 (7.1%) had at least one meningioma; seven (7/15, 47%) had multiple meningiomas. Meningiomas were more frequent in older patients and after exposure to CPA (13/103, 13%) compared to NA (1/22, 4%) or CMA (1/85, 1%; P=0.005). After CPA exposure, meningiomas were associated with longer treatment duration (median=20 vs 7 years, P=0.001) and higher cumulative dose (median=91 g vs. 62 g, P=0.014). Similarly, their multiplicity was associated with higher dose of CPA (median=244 g vs 61 g, P=0.027). Most meningiomas were ≤1 cm3 (44/58, 76%) and were convexity meningiomas (36/58, 62%). At diagnosis, patients were non-symptomatic, and all were managed conservatively. Among 14 patients with meningioma who stopped progestin exposure, meningioma burden decreased in 11 (79%) cases with no case of progression during MR follow-up.Conclusion: Systematic MR screening in progestin-exposed patients uncovers small and multiple meningiomas, which can be managed conservatively, decreasing in size after progestin discontinuation. The high rate of meningiomas after CPA exposure reinforces the need for systematic screening. For NA and CMA, further studies are needed to identify patients most likely to benefit from screening.
Antiulcerogenic and Healing Activity of Hecogenin Acetate in Rodents
Authors: Sousa Aline Jeane Costa , Neto Benedito Pereira de Sousa , Costa Douglas Soares da , de Sousa Maisa Campelo , de Carvalho Camila Ernanda Sousa , Quintans-Junior Lucindo José , Quintans Jullyana Souza Siqueira , Neves Josyanne Araújo , Silva Francilene Vieira da , Viana Ana Flávia Seraine Custódio , Nunes Paulo Humberto Moreira , Oliveira Rita de Cássia Meneses
Published: September 2022

Purpose
Peptic ulcers are lesions in the gastric and duodenal mucosa generated by an imbalance between protective factors (gastroduodenal mucus secretion, bicarbonate production, adequate blood flow) and harmful factors (excess pepsin or hydrochloric acid). Some drugs used in peptic ulcer therapy are associated with adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiulcerogenic and healing activity of hecogenin acetate (HA) in acute and chronic models of gastric lesions in rodents.
Methods
The antiulcerogenic activity of HA was evaluated in models of gastric lesions induced by absolute ethanol and in acidified ethanol with HA (5; 10 and 20 mg/kg). For the model of gastric lesions induced by ischemia and reperfusion, rats were pre-treated with HA (5; 10, 20 mg/kg). After were submitted to 30 min of ischemia, followed by 1 h of reperfusion. To evaluate the healing activity was induced gastric ulcer using acetic acid (80%) in rats. After 24h they were treated for 7 consecutive days with HA (10 and 20 mg/kg).
Results
Were evaluated the possible signs of toxicity, measurement of the lesions, collagen deposition and histological analysis. HA significantly reduced the area of the lesion in models of gastric lesions induced by absolute and acidified ethanol, ischemia-induced gastric lesions and reperfusion, and regarding healing. In the collagen deposition, the presence and increase of collagen demonstrates healing effect.
Conclusion
The AH has antiulcerogenic and healing potential demonstrated by the decrease in gastric injury and presence of collagen fibers, respectively.
The experienced positive and negative influence of HIV on quality of life of people with HIV and vulnerable to HIV
Authors: Romijnders Kim , de Groot Laura , Vervoort Sigrid , Basten Maartje , Welzen Berend van , Kretzschmar Mirjam , Reiss Peter , Davidovich Udi , Loeff Maarten Schim van der , Rozhnova Ganna
Published: September 2022

This qualitative study aimed to explore the experienced influence of HIV on the quality of life (QoL) of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and key populations who live without but are vulnerable to HIV in the Netherlands. We conducted and thematically analyzed interviews with 29 PLHIV and 13 participants from key populations without HIV (i.e., men who have sex with men). PLHIV and key populations shared positive meaningful experiences regarding HIV, i.e., feeling grateful for ART, life, and the availability of PrEP, being loved and supported in the light of HIV, and providing support to the community. Negative predominant experiences regarding HIV were described by both PLHIV and key populations as the negative effects of ART, challenges with regards to disclosing HIV, social stigmatization, and self-stigma. It remains important to support HIV community organizations in their efforts to reduce social stigmatization and to continue improving biomedical interventions for HIV.
Investigation of time profile of FEV1 across the onset of COPD: A retrospective cohort study using medical checkup data in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Masaru , Matsumoto Isao , Ishida Masato , Horie Yoshiharu , Ban Hideyuki , Takeuchi Wataru , Nakagawa Shunki , Nakagawa Tohru , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Muro Shigeo
Published: September 2022

Background: Identification of the factors associated with a rapid decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) at an early stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is of particular clinical importance because it may allow timely medical intervention to slow down progression of lung function decline in patients. This study aimed to compare the time profile of FEV1 after COPD diagnosis among rapid decliners, slow decliners, and sustainers and the patient characteristics in the year of COPD diagnosis.Methods: COPD patients were identified from data collected from the annual medical checkup records of Hitachi, Ltd. employees in Japan from April 1998 to March 2019. Patients were categorized by FEV1 for 5 years (years 1-5) in 3 groups (rapid decliner, slow decliner, and sustainer). Patients with a decrease of FEV1 ≥63 mL/year were considered rapid decliners; those with <63 and ≥31 mL/year, slow decliners; and those with <31 mL/year, sustainers. Patient characteristics in the year of COPD detection and the time profiles of FEV1 across the onset of COPD (from year ‑3 to 5) were investigated in those groups.Results: Of 1294 eligible participants, 241 (18.6%) were classified as rapid decliners. The annual rates of FEV1 decline were similar 3 years before and until COPD diagnosis (year -3 to 0) and were 0.05 mL in rapid decliners, 0.05 mL in slow decliners, and 0.07 mL in sustainers. After COPD diagnosis, these 3 categories started diverging in their lung function trajectory. The mean FEV1 in rapid decliners was 2.82 L in year 0 and 2.41 L in year 5. Rapid decliners had decreased body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage at the time of COPD diagnosis compared with sustainers.Conclusions: FEV1 declined yearly before diagnosis in rapid decliners, slow decliners, and sustainers. The time profiles of FEV1 were different in the 3 groups after COPD diagnosis. Therefore, regular lung function tests are necessary to follow FEV1 decline after COPD onset in a timely manner.
Selenium Mitigates Prenatal Lead-Induced Toxicity on Cerebral Cortex of Wistar Rats Pups
Authors: Echefu Boniface Ezenwata , Musa Sunday Abraham , Umana Uduak E.
Published: September 2022

Lead is a dangerous substance to the body that particularly targets the central nervous system (CNS), especially during the early stages of development. Unfortunately, classical therapies remain inefficient in mitigating neurotoxicity associated with developmental Pb exposure on brain regions. However, co-occurring selenium, and heavy metals are known to reduce each other's effects. In this study, the counteractive impact of selenium (Se) to the toxic effects of Pb on the developing rat brain was investigated to explore early protection against developmental disruption of the cerebral cortex by Pb using Wistar rat model. Pregnant rats were grouped into 3 group of 3 animals each. Group 1 served as control and received 2ml distilled water, group 2 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and group 3 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and 0.3 mg/kg bwt of Se. Administration was orally from gestation day 9 till parturition. On PND 1, and 21, brain tissues were harvested for biochemical and histopathological (histochemical and histological) studies. Observations show that lead accumulated in the brain of pups in an inverse relationship with calcium. Pups in the group administered only Pb, showed evidence of serious necrosis, and neuronal degeneration when compared with the control group and the group co-administered Se and Pb. Hence, the gestational neurotoxic effect of Lead on the cerebral cortex can be mitigated by Se. Our findings show that Selenium, an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance for animals and humans, might be beneficial in lead toxicity therapy.
Prediction of osteoporosis and osteopenia by routine computed tomography of the lumbar spine in different regions of interest
Authors: Yang Guangyue , Wang Hansong , Wu Zhufeng , Shi Yinyu , Zhao Yongfang
Published: September 2022

Background
We aimed to investigate the utility of Hounsfield units (HU) obtained from different regions of interest in opportunistic lumbar computed tomography (CT) to predict osteoporosis coupling with data of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
Methods
100 patients who attended a university hospital in Shanghai, China, and had undergone CT and DXA tests of the lumbar spine within 3 months were included in this retrospective review. Images were reviewed on axial sections, and regions of interest (ROI) markers were placed on the round, oval, anterior, left, and right of the L1-L4 vertebra to measure the HU. The mean values of CT HU were then compared to the bone mineral density (BMD) measured by DXA. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to determine the threshold for diagnosis and its sensitivity and specificity values.
Results
The differences in CT HU of different ROI based on DXA definitions of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and normal individuals were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The HU values of the different ROI correlated well with the BMD values (Spearman coefficient all > 0.75, p < 0.01). The threshold for diagnosing osteoporosis varies from 87 to 111 HU in different ROIs, and the threshold for excluding osteoporosis or osteopenia is 99–125 HU.
Conclusion
This is the first study on osteoporosis diagnosis of different ROI with routine CT lumbar scans. There is a strong correlation between CT HU of different ROI in the lumbar spine and BMD, and HU measurements can be used to predict osteoporosis.
Comparison of Demography, Resource Utilization and Outcomes Between the First and Second Covid-19 Wave in a Teaching Hospital in India.
Authors: Raj R Bimal , Mookambika RV , Panicker Priya , Ravishankar V , Jacob Anu , Mohan AD Arun
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The novel Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) affected India, predominantly in two time periods – the first wave from March to December 2020, and the second wave began from April 2021 to July 2021. Although the time duration of second wave was shorter than the first, the onslaught of the disease was much more severe during the second wave.
Methodology: Demographic, duration of hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality data of 482 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 individuals were retrospectively analyzed in a teaching hospital in South India. The case file data were compared between the first and second wave.
Results: The median age of hospitalisation was 46.2 years and 48.39 years during first and second wave respectively, with male preponderance in second wave. During the second wave, statistically significant difference was found in mean duration of stay (9.04 vs 7.53), mean Spo2 at admission (98.4 vs 96.65), NIV requirement (1.5% vs 8.7%), oxygen requirement(7.4 % vs 13.9%), ICU care, Remedesevir, steroids and enoxaparin.
Conclusion: During the second covid wave, significantly higher hospitalisation, intensive care requirements and inpatient mortality was observed. Diabetes and other comorbid conditions had elevated CRP, lymphocytopenia were associated with higher severity and poor outcomes in both waves.
Aquaponic production of strawberries and their mineral and sugar composition when supplemented with or without boron and cultured with or without media
Authors: Romano Nicholas , Fischer Hayden
Published: September 2022

Strawberries were aquaponically cultured with or without boron supplementations and with or without media (2 × 2 factorial design) for over two months. There was a total of six identical aquaponic units with each containing 30 catfish juveniles (initial weight = 2.1 g) as well as two plant culture units consisting of a floating raft (without media) or expanded lava rock (with media). Boron (B), in the form of Borax, was weekly added at 0.01 mg/L. Water quality and fish growth were unaffected by B additions. Strawberry number and total weight were unaffected by B or media, but individual strawberries were significantly heavier when grown in media. Sodium, iron and moisture content were significantly higher in strawberries grown in media but both glucose and fructose were significantly higher in strawberries grown without media. Supplementations of B significantly increased and decreased the B and zinc content of strawberries, respectively, as well as caused significantly shorter roots. B supplementations appeared to provide no benefit and may have actually caused some B toxicity to the strawberries. Growing strawberries with or without media in an aquaponic system provided different advantages but research should be performed to investigate other nutrients to potentially enhance production and quality.
Geometry Tactile Diagram (GTD): A Geometry Problem Solving Approach for Mathematics Education for Visually Impaired College Students
Authors: Adelakun Sariat , Abdulsalaam Aminat , Michael Kehinde , Evangeline Chukuka , Musibau Shittu
Published: September 2022

BackgroundMathematics is generally dominated by diagrams and spatial representation of concepts. This makes it seem impossible for the blind and visually impaired (BVI) who have limitations or total loss of sight. This study investigated the place of geometry tactile diagrams in meeting the needs of the BVI students in geometry, which is an aspect of mathematics. Experimental research design was used for the study. All the blind and visually impaired students of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo served as the population for the study. A sample of twenty (20) students from the school of general studies (Mathematics unit) was purposely selected and randomised into two groups. Geometry tactile diagram (GTD) and Geometry Achievement test were used as the study instruments. T-test statistic was used to analyse the data collected at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings The findings revealed that: there is a significant difference between mean achievement scores in the control group (students taught without GTD) and the experimental group (students taught with GTD. There is a significant difference between the performance of students taught geometry before the introduction of GTD and after the treatment with GTD. ConclusionThe study, therefore, recommends that geometry tactile diagrams, an effective teaching tool, should be used to make geometry accessible to the Blind and visually impaired (BVI). This will eliminate the existing gap between sighted and visually impaired students in mathematics.
Identification of Ferroptosis-Related Genes and Pathways in Diabetic Kidney Disease Using Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Dezhen , Zhou Wei , Mao Li , Cui Zhaohui , Jin Shanshan
Published: September 2022

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major public health issue because of its refractory nature. Ferroptosis is a newly coined programmed cell death characterized by the accumulation of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the prognostic and diagnostic value of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) and their biological mechanisms in DKD remain elusive. The gene expression profiles GSE96804, GSE30566, GSE99339 and GSE30528 were obtained and analyzed. We constructed a reliable prognostic model for DKD consisting of eight FRGs (SKIL, RASA1, YTHDC2, SON, MRPL11, HSD17B14, DUSP1 and FOS). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the ferroptosis-related model had predictive power with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.818. Gene functional enrichment analysis showed significant differences between the DKD and normal groups, and ferroptosis played an important role in DKD. Consensus clustering analysis showed four different ferroptosis types, and the risk score of type four was significantly higher than that of other groups. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that the expression of macrophages M2 increased significantly, while that of neutrophils decreased significantly in the high-risk group. Our study identified and validated the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in DKD. FRGs could serve as credible diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DKD.