bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of BETA Zeolite Template Free Synthesis Method
Authors: Monzharenko M. , Mikhailov S. , Brovko R. , Doluda V.
Published: September 2022

The development of new methods for the synthesis of zeolites and the improvement of existing methods for the synthesis of zeolites in order to reduce their cost and improve the quality of the final product is an important task of modern chemistry and chemical technology. Existing methods for the synthesis of zeolites, including hydrothermal synthesis methods, are extremely time-consuming and expensive due to the widespread use of structure-forming agents. At the same time, traditional methods for solving the above problems by increasing the rate of hydrothermal synthesis by increasing the temperature are not optimal, due to the possibility of the formation of additional inorganic phases at high temperatures. Zeolite BETA is one of the most commonly used aluminosilicates both as a catalyst and as a material for creating inorganic membranes for various purposes, while the synthesis of the above zeolite is extremely long and takes from 5 to 10 days. The presented article presents the results of the development of a method for obtaining BETA zeolite by a hydrothermal method under the influence of ultrasound. A study of the influence of temperature and the ratio of silicon to aluminum in the reaction medium on the yield of zeolite is also given. It has been established that an increase in the temperature of hydrothermal synthesis from 80 ℃ to 120 ℃ contributes to an increase in the yield of zeolite up to 97%. An increase in the molar ratio of silicon to aluminum, on the contrary, leads to a decrease in the zeolite yield to 15%. It is shown that the synthesis under conditions of ultrasonic treatment with a power of 6 mW/cm2contributes to an increase in the yield of the target product by 2–4 times, and an increase in the rate of formation of BETA zeolite by 2–8 times.
Studying the Alkaloids Content in Delphinium oreophilum Huth
Authors: Boronova Z. , Sultankhodzhaev M. , Asrankulova G. , Seiitbek kyzy N. , Muratova A. , Abdullaeva Zh.
Published: September 2022

Research relevance: plant alkaloids are important in pharmacology based on their high physiological activity, as well as wide range of practical valuable medicinal properties. Most of plants necessary for conservation, cultivation and rational use of each type of plant resources in traditional and medical practice remains an urgent task. Kyrgyzstan is a favorable region for growth of medicinal herbs that is why flora research and study is of great importance. Research objectives: search of the biologically active content of methyllicaconitine alkaloids in roots and aerial parts of the Delphinium oreophilum plant growing in the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic. Research methods: diterpenoid alkaloids methyl lycaconitine, anthranoillicoctonine, lycoctonine, eldelin, eldelidine were obtained by separating the sum of alkaloids. Resulting compounds were analyzed by IR, NMR, Mass spectroscopy. A mixed melt test of the isolated perchlorate with a true sample of methyl lycaconitine perchlorate confirmed compounds identity. Research results: the sum of alkaloids obtained from the roots and aerial parts of Delphinium oreophilum plants collected in the southern and northern slopes of the Kichi Alai ridge. Conclusions: the content of total alkaloids in the roots and aerial parts of the plant growing in the southern slopes was 1.8% and 1% of the weight of the dry plant. The samples collected in the northern slopes contained 0.8% and 0.7% of the total alkaloids, respectively.
Ecological Features of Vegetable Nematodafaunal Species of the Samarkand Region in the Territory of the Middle Course of the Zarafshan River
Authors: Mavlyanov O. , Mirzaev U. , Khakimov N. , Narzullaev S.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of the research: Analysis of the composition of the nematode fauna of vegetable crops in the territory of the middle reaches of the Zarafshan (Uzbekistan) according to their ecological characteristics. Materials and methods. To isolate plant nematodes from plants and root soil, a modified Berman funnel method was used. In total, more than 5,400 plant and soil samples were collected and analyzed. To identify the species of phytoparasitic nematodes, we used the atlas of phytonematodes compiled at the Institute of Parasitology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, as well as morphometric indicators obtained using the generally accepted de Man formula. Nematodes are divided into ecological groups according to A. Paramonov and the Eates classification was used. In the process of studying the nematode fauna of tomato, cucumber and bell pepper from vegetable fields, samples of the ground parts of the vegetative organs, the root system, as well as samples of the root soil (rhizosphere) of these plants, taken at a depth of up to 20 cm, were found in the samples of all 102 species of nematodes (more than 13 thousand) were analyzed individually, as well as an analysis of known ecological groups was carried out in terms of their distribution in biotopes, feeding methods, and relationships with plants. As a result of the research, 102 nematode species found were analyzed and divided into 5 ecological groups. These groups, in turn, were subdivided into 8 small subgroups. It became known that in the study area, by the number of individuals among pararhizobionts, species belonging to the genera Rhabditis, Eudorylaimus, Monhystera dominated or played the role of subdominants, among parasitic plant nematodes species, representatives of the genera Tylenchus, Ditylenchus, Pratylenchus. It was found that in the nematode fauna of the studied species of vegetable crops, root-knot nematodes belonging to the genus Meloidogyne are the most widespread species.
Neo-Liberal Politics: Dichotomy of Political Self-determination and Economic Dispossession of Individual
Authors: Dar Muzammil Ahad , Wani Khursheed Ahmad
Published: September 2022

In the neoliberal democratic order, society is governed by dual constitutions. The constitutional laws ensure the rights and liberty of an individual. However, the economic laws of the market nurture competition for economic self-sufficiency of an individual as a homo-economicus. The neo-liberal market laws are complimented by the constitutional laws that help the liberal elites to perpetuate dominance and decry the call for social justice demanded by the masses. The study humbly attempts to brief upon the dichotomy between the free market and the interests of individuals in the neoliberal order. The study thus explores the evolution and status of neo-liberalism to trace out the dynamics of the dichotomy between market and individual.
Sexual Harassment—a Comparative Study of India & Pakistan in the light of Recent Developments in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Sabeen , Sabreen Mudassara
Published: September 2022

The study is a comparison and analysis of the laws relating to sexual harassment in Pakistan and India, in light of the legal feminist theory. An attempt is made to identify gaps in them and amendments are proposed. The law is supposed to act as a protector, but it seems to have failed in providing much-needed protection to women. The study discusses the reasons behind this failure and proposes certain amendments for lawmakers to ensure women’s rights in the current changing environment. The study is an attempt to compare and analyze the laws relating to sexual harassment in Pakistan and India in light of the legal feminist theory, to identify gaps in them, and propose amendments. The law, which is supposed to act as a protector, seems to have failed in providing much-needed protection to women. The study discusses the reasons behind this failure and proposes certain amendments for lawmakers to ensure women’s rights in the current changing environment.
Exploring Digital Competence of Pakistani ELT Teachers during Pandemic
Authors: Khan Mamona Yasmin , Cheema Shazia Riaz
Published: September 2022

Covid-19 was a tumultuous and unpredictable event that forcibly relocated all educators from the conventional face-to-face phenomenon to a virtual setting. This mode of teaching necessitated a level of digital competence that goes beyond online-based knowledge and encompasses media literacy, information seeking, and critical thinking skills. It also deals with the capacity to communicate with others via digital tools and applications around the globe. The study is aimed at exploring the effect of online teaching on ELT teachers' digital competence in the Covid-19 perspective using (DigCompEdu 2017). Following pragmatism, the researcher used a mixed-method approach to collect data via questionnaires and semi-structured interviews as data collection tools. ELT Teachers at the elementary and secondary levels in Multan's FGEIS(C/G) schools were selected through purposive sampling. For statistical analysis cross-tabulation, chi-square tests, frequency tables, and bar charts whereas IPA for qualitative analysis were used. The study revealed that during the online mode of education, teachers' digital competence increased remarkably. It is suggested that all stakeholders should make substantial efforts to organize regular training and workshops, particularly to enhance ELT teachers' digital competence to meet the challenges during any emergency in future. At the official level, digital competence research should be developed, encouraged, and supported, as it will help to promote digital competence and optimize the use of technology in the classroom.
Determinants Of Pakistan’s Policy towards Soviet Intervention in Afghanistan
Authors: Naazer Manzoor Ahmad
Published: September 2022

Pakistan’s Afghan policy after Soviet intervention in Afghanistan in December 1979 was not a simple reaction to that event. Soviet action had far reaching repercussions for Pakistan as well as for the region as a whole. Nor Pakistan’s reply to Soviet occupation of Afghanistan neither Soviet decision to send its troops in small neighborly country could be seen while separating it from changing regional as well as international scenario. It also could not be seen without taking into consideration the historical background of the events that had led to the destabilization of Southwest Asia.
Pengaruh Corporate Social Responsibility Terhadap Nilai Perusahaan dan Volume Perdagangan Saham (Studi pada Perusahaan Pertambangan Minyak dan Gas Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia Tahun 2017-2019)
Authors: Rahayu Alviya , Agustina Rachma
Published: September 2022

Pengungkapan tanggungjawab sosial perusahaan atau sering disebut dengan Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) merupakan informasi untuk menilai tingkat kepedulian perusahaan terhadap lingkungan. Kepedulian perusahaan terhadap lingkungan ini tentunya mengindikasikan perusahaan memiliki komitmen dan kemampuan dalam kinerja finansial.Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menguji pengaruh corporate social responsibility terhadap nilai perusahaan dan volume perdagangan saham. Populasi dalam penelitian di bursa efek indonesia perusahaan Pertambangan Minyak Dan Gas, ada 14 perusahan dan sempel yang diambil 10 perusahaan yang terdaftar di BEI, tempat penelitian di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Alat analisis dalam penelitian ini menggunakan regresi linear sederhana. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa corporate social responsibility tidak berpengaruh terhadap nilai perusahaan, dan corporate social responsibility tidak berpengaruh terhadap volume perdagangan saham.
 Kata Kunci: Corporate Social Responsibility ; Nilai Perusahaan ; Volume Perdagangan Saham
Analisis Pengelolaan Keuangan Desa pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 Tahun 2020 (Studi Kasus Desa Wonoagung Kecamatan Kasembon Kabupaten Malang)
Authors: Nurrofah Nining , Ervina Deasy
Published: September 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis mengenai Pengelolaan Keuangan Desa di Desa Wonoagung Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 Tahun 2020. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan penelitian deskriptif dan sumber yang digunakan adalah primer dan sekunder. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan pembahasan, dapat disimpulkan bahwa pengelolaan keuangan desa selama pandemi di desa wonoagung mengalami kenaikan dalam anggaran karena dana desa lebih banyak tersalurkan untuk penanggulangan covid-19 dan desa wonoagung juga telah menerapkan PERMENDESA (Peraturan Menteri Desa) No.6 Tahun 2020 yang isinya dimaksud mengatur tentang penggunaan dana desa untuk : (1). Pencegahan dan penanganan Covid-19; (2). Padat Karya Tunai Desa; (3). Bantuan Langsung Tunai Desa.
Kata Kunci : Pengelolaan Keuangan Desa, Covid-19, Permendesa No.6 Tahun 2020
Pouch failure in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Achkasov S. I. , Kulikov A. E. , Mingazov A. F. , Vardanyan A. V. , Aleshin D. V. , Surovegin E. S. , Shahmatov D. G. , Sushkov O. I.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to assess results of pouch surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS: the retrospective single-center study included 144 patients who underwent J-pouch surgery in 2011–2018 (4 patients refused ileostomy closure due to nonmedical reasons and were excluded from analysis). Median follow-up was 32 (20; 43) months. The definition of «pouch failure» (PF) was clarified as a condition, when J-pouch associated complications do not permit ileostomy closure ≥ 12 months or more after pouch surgery.

RESULTS: PF was detected in 30/140 (21.4%) cases and only in 8/140 (5,7%) patients pouch was removed. The most common complication identified by PF was pouch fistula, which was detected in 16/30 (53.3%) patients. Of the 30 patients with PF, 22 (73.3%) managed to “save” the pouch, of which — in 11/30 (36.7%) cases, anal defecation was restored, and in other cases — 11 (36. 7%) the ileostomy was not closed, but the pouch was preserved and is being treated conservatively. In 9/30 (30%) patients, the identified complications were performed by transanal removal of the remaining part of the rectum with the formation of a pouch-anal anastomosis, followed by closure of the ileostomy. In 8/30 (26.6%) cases pouch was removed. The multivariant analysis revealed hypoalbuminemia at the time of pouch surgery (OR = 5.74; 95% CI = 1.83–18.01; p = 0.003) as independent risk factors for PF.

CONCLUSION: the only independent risk factor for complications which lead to PF was hypoalbuminemia. Multi-stage surgical treatment of complications associated with the pouch made it possible to “save” the ileal pouch in 22/30 (73.3%) cases, and completely overcome PF and restore anal defecation in 11/30 (36.7%) cases. In 8/140 (5.7%) patients, the pouch had to be removed and a permanent ileostomy was done.
Balloon dilation and electrodestruction for colorectal anastomosis strictures
Authors: Kachanova T. V. , Veselov V. V. , Vaganov Yu. E. , Mingazov A. F. , Shakhmatov D. G. , Likutov A. A. , Chernyshov S. V. , Sushkov O. I.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to assess results of balloon dilatation (BD) and electric destruction (ED) for strictures of colorectal anastomoses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: the prospective cohort study included 69 patients with colorectal anastomotic strictures. Thirty-two of them underwent endoscopic balloon dilatation, 37 — electric destruction of scar tissue using a spherical monopolar electrode.

RESULTS: the recurrence rate of the anastomotic stricture in the BD group was 3 times higher than after ED (OR = 2.9; 95% CI: 0.7–11.1; p = 0.04). The independent factor of stricture recurrence was the extent of stricture > 11 mm (OR = 11.8; 95% CI: 1,57–123,5; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION: electric destruction and balloon dilatation are effective and safe methods for strictures of colorectal anastomoses. The independent factor recurrence risk of the stricture was the extent of the scar narrowing more than 11 mm long.
Cost-effectiveness of the enhanced recovery program in patients undergoing colon surgery. Results of randomized clinical trial
Authors: Surovegin E. S. , Achkasov S. I. , Nazarov I. A. , Lukashevych I. V. , Sushkov O. I.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the enhanced recovery program (ERP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS: a randomized clinical trial was carried out. A total of 152 patients were divided into ERP (n = 77) and conventional (n = 75) groups. To study the cost-effectiveness of ERP, direct medical costs were assessed at all stages of treatment (outpatient, inpatient, and also within 30 days after discharge from the hospital). Cost minimization analysis (CMA) was used.

RESULTS: the median total costs at the stage of outpatient check-up ERP and conventional groups where comparable (33115-35146 rubles; p = 0.1). The total cost of inpatient treatment in the main group was 175,535 rubles, in the control group — 199,055 rubles (p < 0.0001). The costs of outpatient follow-up in ERP group were significantly higher compared to the conventional group (p = 0.0005). The difference, according to Hodges-Lehmann estimation, was 940.7 rubles. The cost of the entire cycle of treatment in the ERP group was 214805 rubles, in the conventional — 237890 rubles (p < 0.0001). Thus, the total reduction in treatment costs associated with ERP amounted to 23,085 rubles (9.7% expenditures)

CONCLUSION: a cost-effectiveness analysis of the implementation of the Enhanced Recovery Program showed an overall cost reduction of 9.7% due to a reduction in costs at the inpatient stage.
Psychological rehabilitation of patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Tkachenko G. A. , Kalashnikova I. A. , Musaev I. E. , Kuzmichev D. V. , Polinovskiy A. V.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to work out the program for psychological support for patients with colorectal cancer and to evaluate its efficiency.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: the prospective clinical psychological pilot study involved 26 patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer (after 6–12 months), aged 64.6 ± 7.1 year. The patients were divided into two groups: the main group included 12 patients who underwent psychotherapy and the control group with single consulting by the psychologist in order to fulfill the questionnaire (without psychotherapy). The psychological adjustment included cognitive behavioral psychotherapy and methods of neurofeedback. The efficiency assessment of the program for psychological adjustment was performed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) before the rehabilitation and after its completion.

RESULTS: the primary diagnostics showed that the anxiety of all patients in both groups was increased up to the subclinical level (8.6 ± 0.5 and 8.7 ± 0.2 points). Most patients of both groups initially demonstrated depressive symptoms of various severity degrees (83.3% and 85.7%). After the psychological adjustment, the anxiety level of the patient of the main group was reduced from 8.6 ± 0.5 to 7.5 ± 0.3 points (p = 0.052). In the control group, the anxiety level practically did not change (8.7 ± 0.2 and 8.2 ± 0.6 points) (p = 0.436). The quantitative analysis of the testing results showed that after the adjustment course including psychotherapeutic measures the number of patients who did not have depression in the main group definitely increased (41.7%). In the control group, the number of patients with depression was reduced less significantly from 85.7% to 71.4%.

CONCLUSION: the anxiety-depressive condition is peculiar for patients with colorectal cancer 1 year after surgery and requires psychological support. The combination of cognitive behavioral psychotherapy and methods based on neurofeedback are effective psychological methods for these patients.
Support and trust in the government and COVID-19 experts during the pandemic
Authors: Yokoyama Hiromi M. , Ikkatai Yuko
Published: September 2022

Support in government and trust in COVID-19 experts are important for pandemic preparedness. Based on the salient value similarity (SVS) model, which holds that “salient values” are important for trust in risk management, we measured ruling and opposition party supporters' support and trust in the government and COVID-19 experts. Comparing the results from 2020 to 2022, supporters of the ruling party maintained their support for the government, while supporters of the opposition party changed from disapproval to support. Trust in experts was higher among ruling party supporters and lower among opposition party supporters. Trust in university researchers did not differ between the ruling and opposition parties. This reveals that it is possible for a government to gain support from opposition party supporters and that achieving trust in experts who advise the government is more difficult than fostering trust in ordinary scientists.
Comparison of techniques for left subclavian artery preservation during thoracic endovascular aortic repair: A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis of both endovascular and surgical revascularization
Authors: Zhang Yuchong , Xie Xinsheng , Yuan Ye , Hu Chengkai , Wang Enci , Zhao Yufei , Lin Peng , Li Zheyun , Mo Fandi , Fu Weiguo , Wang Lixin
Published: September 2022

Background

Currently, the optimal technique to revascularize the left subclavian artery (LSA) during thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) remains controversial. Our study seeks to characterize early and late clinical results and to assess the advantages and disadvantages of endovascular vs. surgical strategies for the preservation of LSA.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library searches were conducted under the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses) standards. Only literature published after January 1994 was included. Studies reporting on endovascular revascularization (ER), surgical revascularization (SR) for LSA preservation were included. 30-day mortality and morbidity rates, restenosis rates, and rates of early and late reintervention are measured as outcomes.

Results

A total of 28 studies involving 2,759 patients were reviewed. All articles were retrospective in design. Single-arm analysis found no significant statistical differences in ER vs. SR in terms of 30-day mortality and perioperative complication rates. The mean follow-up time for the ER cohort was 12.9 months and for the SR cohort was 26.6 months, respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed a higher risk of perioperative stroke (4.2%) and endoleaks (14.2%) with the chimney technique compared to the fenestrated and single-branched stent approaches. Analysis of the double-arm studies did not yield statistically significant results.

Conclusion

Both ER and SR are safe and feasible in the preservation of LSA while achieving an adequate proximal landing zone. Among ER strategies, the chimney technique may presents a greater risk of neurological complications and endoleaks, while the single-branched stent grafts demonstrate the lowest complication rate, and the fenestration method for revascularization lies in an intermediate position. Given that the data quality of the included studies were relatively not satisfactory, more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to provide convincing evidence for optimal approaches to LSA revascularization in the future.
Food plant diversity determines home range area and formation of a new family group of the world’s rarest primate
Authors: Wang Lu , Li Yousheng , Cui Jie , Zhang Hui , Gong Wenfeng
Published: September 2022

Global primates are endangered, and thus it is important to know the determinants of primate population dynamics. It is widely reported that food plant diversity and nutrients are key determinants of many primate population dynamics. However, it remains unknown whether this can be applied to explain the population dynamics of Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus), the world’s rarest primate. Recently, two individuals moved out from one family group (group C) and went across more than 9 km to form a new family group (group E), thus providing a perfect chance to quantify whether food plant diversity and nutrients can determine Hainan gibbon’s formation of the new family group. Here, we used a plot survey to compare the differences in food plant diversity (species richness and abundance) and nine leaf nutrient traits (leaf water content, total soluble sugar, vitamin C, calorific value, crude fat, crude protein, crude fiber, Zn, and Fe) between group C and group E. We found that plant diversity in group E was indeed higher (1.35–1.41 times) than that in group C. Moreover, in both groups C and E, food plant diversity within the home range was also higher (1.4–1.6 times) than that out of the home range. However, both cases could not be witnessed for all leaf nutrient traits. Results of principal component analysis revealed that food plant species between groups C and E were all significantly separated by food plant diversity but not leaf nutrient traits. Food plant species within and out of the home range of both groups C and E could also be significantly separated by food plant diversity, but not for all leaf nutrient traits. In conclusion, food plant diversity was one key determinant of the formation of a new family group of Hainan gibbons. Choosing high food plant diversity was also one key motivation for Hainan gibbons to select their home range.
New insight into DAVF pathology—Clues from meningeal immunity
Authors: Tu Tianqi , Peng Zhenghong , Song Zihao , Ma Yongjie , Zhang Hongqi
Published: September 2022

In recent years, with the current access in techniques, studies have significantly advanced the knowledge on meningeal immunity, revealing that the central nervous system (CNS) border acts as an immune landscape. The latest concept of meningeal immune system is a tertiary structure, which is a comprehensive overview of the meningeal immune system from macro to micro. We comprehensively reviewed recent advances in meningeal immunity, particularly the new understanding of the dural sinus and meningeal lymphatics. Moreover, based on the clues from the meningeal immunity, new insights were proposed into the dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) pathology, aiming to provide novel ideas for DAVF understanding.
Migration of nitrite corrosion inhibitor in calcium silicate hydrate nanopore: A molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Hu Xiaoxia , Zheng Heping , Tao Rui , Wang Pan
Published: September 2022

Nitrite is an effective corrosion inhibitor that can inhibit the corrosion of steel reinforcement and extend the service life of reinforced concrete. The transport speed of nitrite in the cement micro-porous channels determines the anti-corrosion effect of reinforcing steel. In this paper, the transport behavior of three nitrite corrosion inhibitors, namely LiNO2, Ca(NO2)2, and NaNO2, in cement micro-porous channels is investigated based on molecular dynamics simulations and finds that NO2−in LiNO2has the fastest transport speed in the channels. The ions’ local structure and dynamic behavior of ions analysis reveal that ion clusters and pores adsorption determine the speed of ion transport. Compared with the other two nitrites, the Li ions have the weakest ability to capture NO2−and form the most unstable clusters (NO2−-Li-water) in the LiNO2solution. Meanwhile, the coordination numbers results indicate that water in LiNO2provides the most potent driving force. These phenomena reasonably explain the fastest transport speed of NO2−through the pores in LiNO2solution. The transport behavior of corrosion inhibitors in the micro-porous channels is thoroughly decoded at the atomic level, which is instrumental in solving the problem of the optimal corrosion inhibitor selecting for the design of highly durable concrete.
Autonomic function predicts cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment: Evidence from power spectral analysis of heart rate variability in a longitudinal study
Authors: Nicolini Paola , Lucchi Tiziano , Abbate Carlo , Inglese Silvia , Tomasini Emanuele , Mari Daniela , Rossi Paolo D. , Vicenzi Marco
Published: September 2022

Background

Despite the emerging clinical relevance of heart rate variability (HRV) as a potential biomarker of cognitive decline and as a candidate target for intervention, there is a dearth of research on the prospective relationship between HRV and cognitive change. In particular, no study has addressed this issue in subjects with a diagnosis of cognitive status including cognitive impairment.

Objective

To investigate HRV as a predictor of cognitive decline in subjects with normal cognition (NC) or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Specifically, we tested the literature-based hypothesis that the HRV response to different physical challenges would predict decline in different cognitive domains.

Methods

This longitudinal study represents the approximately 3-year follow-up of a previous cross-sectional study enrolling 80 older outpatients (aged ≥ 65). At baseline, power spectral analysis of HRV was performed on five-minute electrocardiographic recordings at rest and during a sympathetic (active standing) and a parasympathetic (paced breathing) challenge. We focused on normalized HRV measures [normalized low frequency power (LFn) and the low frequency to high frequency power ratio (LF/HF)] and on their dynamic response from rest to challenge (Δ HRV). Extensive neuropsychological testing was used to diagnose cognitive status at baseline and to evaluate cognitive change over the follow-up via annualized changes in cognitive Z-scores. The association between Δ HRV and cognitive change was explored by means of linear regression, unadjusted and adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

In subjects diagnosed with MCI at baseline a greater response to a sympathetic challenge predicted a greater decline in episodic memory [adjusted model: Δ LFn, standardized regression coefficient (β) = −0.528, p = 0.019; Δ LF/HF, β = −0.643, p = 0.001] whereas a greater response to a parasympathetic challenge predicted a lesser decline in executive functioning (adjusted model: Δ LFn, β = −0.716, p < 0.001; Δ LF/HF, β = −0.935, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insight into the link between HRV and cognition in MCI. They contribute to a better understanding of the heart-brain connection, but will require replication in larger cohorts.
Effects of docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaoic acid supplementation on white matter integrity after repetitive sub-concussive head impacts during American football: Exploratory neuroimaging findings from a pilot RCT
Authors: Raikes Adam C. , Hernandez Gerson D. , Mullins Veronica A. , Wang Yiwei , Lopez Claudia , Killgore William D. S. , Chilton Floyd H. , Brinton Roberta D.
Published: September 2022

Context

Repetitive sub-concussive head impacts (RSHIs) are common in American football and result in changes to the microstructural integrity of white matter. Both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaoic acid (EPA) supplementation exerted neuroprotective effects against RSHIs in animal models and in a prior study in football players supplemented with DHA alone.

Objective

Here, we present exploratory neuroimaging outcomes from a randomized controlled trial of DHA + EPA supplementation in American football players. We hypothesized that supplementation would result in less white matter integrity loss on diffusion weighted imaging over the season.

Design, setting, participants

We conducted a double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 38 American football players between June 2019 and January 2020.

Intervention

Participants were randomized to the treatment (2.442 g/day DHA and 1.020 g/day EPA) or placebo group for five times-per-week supplementation for 7 months. Of these, 27 participants were included in the neuroimaging data analysis (n = 16 placebo; n = 11 DHA + EPA).

Exploratory outcome measures

Changes in white matter integrity were quantified using both voxelwise diffusion kurtosis scalars and deterministic tractography at baseline and end of season. Additional neuroimaging outcomes included changes in regional gray matter volume as well as intra-regional, edge-wise, and network level functional connectivity. Serum neurofilament light (NfL) provided a peripheral biomarker of axonal damage.

Results

No voxel-wise between-group differences were identified on diffusion tensor metrics. Deterministic tractography using quantitative anisotropy (QA) revealed increased structural connectivity in ascending corticostriatal fibers and decreased connectivity in long association and commissural fibers in the DHA+EPA group compared to the placebo group. Serum NfL increases were correlated with increased mean (ρ = 0.47), axial (ρ = 0.44), and radial (ρ = 0.51) diffusivity and decreased QA (ρ = −0.52) in the corpus callosum and bilateral corona radiata irrespective of treatment group. DHA + EPA supplementation did preserve default mode/frontoparietal control network connectivity (g = 0.96, p = 0.024).

Conclusions

These exploratory findings did not provide strong evidence that DHA + EPA prevented or protected against axonal damage as quantified via neuroimaging. Neuroprotective effects on functional connectivity were observed despite white matter damage. Further studies with larger samples are needed to fully establish the relationship between omega-3 supplementation, RSHIs, and neuroimaging biomarkers.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov-NCT04796207
A computational pipeline to generate a synthetic dataset of metal ion sorption to oxides for AI/ML exploration
Authors: Li Chunhui , Zarzycki Piotr
Published: September 2022

The charged mineral/electrolyte interfaces are ubiquitous in the surface and subsurface–including the surroundings of the geological disposal sites for radioactive waste. Therefore, understanding how ions interact with charged surfaces is critically important for predicting radionuclide mobility in the case of waste leakage. At present, the Surface Complexation Models (SCMs) are the most successful thermodynamic frameworks to describe ion retention by mineral surfaces. SCMs are interfacial speciation models that account for the effect of the electric field generated by charged surfaces on sorption equilibria. These models have been successfully used to analyze and interpret a broad range of experimental observations including potentiometric and electrokinetic titrations or spectroscopy. Unfortunately, many of the current procedures to solve and fit SCM to experimental data are not optimal, which leads to a non-transferable or non-unique description of interfacial electrostatics and consequently of the strength and extent of ion retention by mineral surfaces. Recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) offer a new avenue to replace SCM solvers and fitting algorithms with trained AI surrogates. Unfortunately, there is a lack of a standardized dataset covering a wide range of SCM parameter values available for AI exploration and training–a gap filled by this study. Here, we described the computational pipeline to generate synthetic SCM data and discussed approaches to transform this dataset into AI-learnable input. First, we used this pipeline to generate a synthetic dataset of electrostatic properties for a broad range of the prototypical oxide/electrolyte interfaces. The next step is to extend this dataset to include complex radionuclide sorption and complexation, and finally, to provide trained AI architectures able to infer SCMs parameter values rapidly from experimental data. Here, we illustrated the AI-surrogate development using the ensemble learning algorithms, such as Random Forest and Gradient Boosting. These surrogate models allow a rapid prediction of the SCM model parameters, do not rely on an initial guess, and guarantee convergence in all cases.
Inactivation efficacy and mechanisms of atmospheric cold plasma on Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris: Insight into the influence of growth temperature on survival
Authors: Wang Lang-Hong , Chen Lin , Zhao Siqi , Huang Yanyan , Zeng Xin-An , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: September 2022

The bactericidal effect of dielectric barrier discharge-atmospheric cold plasma (DBD-ACP, 20, and 30 kV) against Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris on the saline solution and apple juice was investigated. Results show that DBD-ACP is effective for the inactivation of A. acidoterrestris by causing significant changes in cell membrane permeability and bacterial morphology. The effect of culture temperatures on the resistance of A. acidoterrestris to DBD-ACP was also studied. A. acidoterrestris cells grown at 25°C had the lowest resistance but it was gradually increased as the culture temperature was increased (25–45°C) (p < 0.05). Moreover, results from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) analysis showed that the increase in the culture temperature can gradually cause the decreased level of cyclohexaneundecanoic acid in the cell membrane of A. acidoterrestris (p < 0.05). In contrast, cyclopentaneundecanoic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid showed an increasing trend in which the fluidity of the bacterial cell membrane decreased. This study shows a specific correlation between the resistance of A. acidoterrestris and the fatty acid composition of the cell membrane to DBD-ACP.
Structural and functional changes of bioactive proteins in donor human milk treated by vat-pasteurization, retort sterilization, ultra-high-temperature sterilization, freeze-thawing and homogenization
Authors: Liang Ningjian , Koh Jeewon , Kim Bum Jin , Ozturk Gulustan , Barile Daniela , Dallas David C.
Published: September 2022

Background

Donor human milk should be processed to guarantee microbiological safety prior to infant feeding, but this process can influence the structure and quantity of functional proteins.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of thawing, homogenization, vat-pasteurization (Vat-PT), retort sterilization (RTR) and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) processing on the structure of bioactive proteins in donor milk.

Methods

Pooled donor milk was either not treated (Raw) or treated with an additional freeze-thaw cycle with and without homogenization, Vat-PT, RTR with and without homogenization, and UHT processing with and without homogenization. Overall protein retention was assessed via sodium-dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE), and the immunoreactivity of 13 bioactive proteins were assessed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Freeze-thawing, freeze-thawing plus homogenization and Vat-PT preserved all the immunoglobulins (sIgA/IgA, IgG, IgM) in donor milk, whereas RTR and UHT degraded almost all immunoglobulins. UHT did not alter osteopontin immunoreactivity, but Vat-PT and retort decreased it by ~50 and 70%, respectively. Freeze-thawing with homogenization, Vat-PT and UHT reduced lactoferrin's immunoreactivity by 35, 65, and 84%, respectively. Lysozyme survived unaltered throughout all processing conditions. In contrast, elastase immunoreactivity was decreased by all methods except freeze-thawing. Freeze-thawing, freeze-thawing plus homogenization and Vat-PT did not alter polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR) immunoreactivity, but RTR, RTR plus homogenization and UHT increased detection. All heat processing methods increased α-lactalbumin immunoreactivity. Vat-PT preserved all the growth factors (vascular/endothelial growth factor, and transforming growth factors β1 and β2), and UHT treatments preserved the majority of these factors.

Conclusion

Different bioactive proteins have different sensitivity to the treatments tested. Overall, Vat-PT preserved more of the bioactive proteins compared with UHT or RTR. Therefore, human milk processors should consider the impact of processing methods on key bioactive proteins in human milk.
Enzymes and microorganisms jointly promote the fermentation of rapeseed cake
Authors: Song Yujie , Sun Litao , Zhang Shuning , Fan Kai , Wang Huan , Shi Yujie , Shen Yaozong , Wang Wenmei , Zhang Jie , Han Xiao , Mao Yilin , Wang Yu , Ding Zhaotang
Published: September 2022

Rapeseed cake is a by-product of rapeseed oil separation. The nutritional components of rapeseed cake mainly include a variety of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals. In order to improve the conversion rate of rapeseed cake, we studied the physicochemical properties, the structure of microbial communities, and the composition of metabolites in rapeseed cake after enzymatic fermentation. The results showed that the addition of enzymatic preparation increased microbial diversity. The relative abundance of Bacillus, Lysinibacillus, Empedobacter, Debaryomyces, Hyphopichia, and Komagataella in enzymatic fermentation was significantly higher than that in natural fermentation. Unlike natural fermentation, microbial diversity during enzymatic fermentation is specific, which improves the efficiency of fermentation. Otherwise, enzymatic fermentation promotes the conversion of macromolecular substances in rapeseed cake, which increases small metabolites, such as fatty acids, organic acids, amino acids and their derivatives. The metabolite enrichment pathway is mostly concentrated in sugar metabolism and fatty acid metabolism. In conclusion, after adding enzymatic preparation, enzymes and microorganisms jointly promote the transformation of macromolecules during the fermentation of rapeseed cake, which laid a good foundation for further utilization of rapeseed cake.
Establishment and validation of a radiological-radiomics model for predicting high-grade patterns of lung adenocarcinoma less than or equal to 3 cm
Authors: Dong Hao , Yin Lekang , Chen Lei , Wang Qingle , Pan Xianpan , Li Yang , Ye Xiaodan , Zeng Mengsu
Published: September 2022

Objective

We aimed to develop a Radiological-Radiomics (R-R) based model for predicting the high-grade pattern (HGP) of lung adenocarcinoma and evaluate its predictive performance.

Methods

The clinical, pathological, and imaging data of 374 patients pathologically confirmed with lung adenocarcinoma (374 lesions in total) were retrospectively analyzed. The 374 lesions were assigned to HGP (n = 81) and non-high-grade pattern (n-HGP, n = 293) groups depending on the presence or absence of high-grade components in pathological findings. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method was utilized to screen features on the United Imaging artificial intelligence scientific research platform, and logistic regression models for predicting HGP were constructed, namely, Radiological model, Radiomics model, and R-R model. Also, receiver operating curve (ROC) curves were plotted on the platform, generating corresponding area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Using the platform, nomograms for R-R models were also provided, and calibration curves and decision curves were drawn to evaluate the performance and clinical utility of the model. The statistical differences in the performance of the models were compared by the DeLong test.

Results

The R-R model for HGP prediction achieved an AUC value of 0.923 (95% CI: 0.891-0.948), a sensitivity of 87.0%, a specificity of 83.4%, and an accuracy of 84.2% in the training set. In the validation set, this model exhibited an AUC value of 0.920 (95% CI: 0.887-0.945), a sensitivity of 87.5%, a specificity of 83.3%, and an accuracy of 84.2%. The DeLong test demonstrated optimal performance of the R-R model among the three models, and decision curves validated the clinical utility of the R-R model.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed a fusion model using radiomic features combined with radiological features to predict the high-grade pattern of lung adenocarcinoma, and this model shows excellent diagnostic performance. The R-R model can provide certain guidance for clinical diagnosis and surgical treatment plans, contributing to improving the prognosis of patients.
Immune and pathophysiologic profiling of antenatal coronavirus disease 2019 in the GIFT cohort: A Singaporean case-control study
Authors: Gu Yue , Low Jia Ming , Tan Jolene Su Yi , Ng Melissa Shu Feng , Ng Lisa F. P. , Shunmuganathan Bhuvaneshwari , Gupta Rashi , MacAry Paul A. , Amin Zubair , Lee Le Ye , Lian Derrick , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi , Zhong Youjia , Wang Liang Wei
Published: September 2022

COVID-19 can be severe in pregnant women, and have adverse consequences for the subsequent infant. We profiled the post-infectious immune responses in maternal and child blood as well as breast milk in terms of antibody and cytokine expression and performed histopathological studies on placentae obtained from mothers convalescent from antenatal COVID-19. Seventeen mother-child dyads (8 cases of antenatal COVID-19 and 9 healthy unrelated controls; 34 individuals in total) were recruited to the Gestational Immunity For Transfer (GIFT) study. Maternal and infant blood, and breast milk samples were collected over the first year of life. All samples were analyzed for IgG and IgA against whole SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, the spike receptor-binding domain (RBD), and previously reported immunodominant epitopes, as well as cytokine levels. The placentae were examined microscopically. The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov under the identifier NCT04802278. We found high levels of virus-specific IgG in convalescent mothers and similarly elevated titers in newborn children. Thus, antenatal SARS-CoV-2 infection led to high plasma titers of virus-specific antibodies in infants postnatally. However, this waned within 3–6 months of life. Virus neutralization by plasma was not uniformly achieved, and the presence of antibodies targeting known immunodominant epitopes did not assure neutralization. Virus-specific IgA levels were variable among convalescent individuals’ sera and breast milk. Antibody transfer ratios and the decay of transplacentally transferred virus-specific antibodies in neonatal circulation resembled that for other pathogens. Convalescent mothers showed signs of chronic inflammation marked by persistently elevated IL17RA levels in their blood. Four placentae presented signs of acute inflammation, particularly in the subchorionic region, marked by neutrophil infiltration even though > 50 days had elapsed between virus clearance and delivery. Administration of a single dose of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine to mothers convalescent from antenatal COVID-19 increased virus-specific IgG and IgA titers in breast milk, highlighting the importance of receiving the vaccine even after natural infection with the added benefit of enhanced passive immunity.
Flavonoids metabolism and physiological response to ultraviolet treatments in Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg
Authors: Bai Yan , Gu Yiwen , Liu Shouzan , Jiang Lingtai , Han Minqi , Geng Dongjie
Published: September 2022

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg is a folk herb in Zhejiang Province with anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic, and anti-oxidation effects. Given its pharmacological activity, T. hemsleyanum is known as New “Zhebawei” and included in the medical insurance system of Zhejiang and other provinces. Flavonoids are the most important components of T. hemsleyanum, and their contents are mainly regulated by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In this study, the total flavonoid contents, flavonoid monomer contents, and flavonoid synthesis related enzyme activities (phenylalanine ammonia–lyase, chalcone synthase, and chalcone isomerase), anti-oxidant enzyme activities (catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase), and biochemical indicators (malondialdehyde, free amino acid, soluble protein, and soluble sugar) in the leaves (L) and root tubers (R) of T. hemsleyanum with UV treatments were determined. Three kinds of UV radiation (UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C) and six kinds of radiation durations (15 and 30 min, 1, 2, 3, and 5 h) were used. Appropriate doses of UV-B and UV-C radiation (30 min to 3 h) induced eustress, which contributed to the accumulation of flavonoids and improve protective enzyme system activities and bioactive compound contents. Especially, certain results were observed in several special structures of the flavonoid monomer: quercetin contents in L increased by nearly 20 times, isoquercitrin contents in R increased by nearly 34 times; most of flavonoids with glycoside content, such as quercitrin (19 times), baicalin (16 times), and apigenin-7G (13 times), increased multiple times. Compared with the CK group, the flavonoid synthase activities, anti-oxidant enzyme activities, and biochemical substance contents in L and R all increased with UV treatments. This study provides a theoretical foundation for regulating flavonoids by light factors and improving the quality of T. hemsleyanum in production and medical industries.