bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-dependent prebiotic effects of soluble corn fiber in M-SHIME® gut microbial ecosystems
Authors: Arroyo Marta Calatayud , Laurie Ieva , Rotsaert Chloë , Marzorati Massimo , Risso Davide , Karnik Kavita
Published: October 2022

Soluble corn fiber (SCF) has demonstrated prebiotic effects in clinical studies. Using an in vitro mucosal simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem (M-SHIME®) model, the effects of SCF treatment on colonic microbiota composition and metabolic activity and on host-microbiome interactions were evaluated using fecal samples from healthy donors of different ages (baby [≤ 2 years], n = 4; adult [18–45 years], n = 2; elderly [70 years], n = 1). During the 3-week treatment period, M-SHIME® systems were supplemented with SCF daily (baby, 1.5, 3, or 4.5 g/d; adult, 3 or 8.5 g/d; and elderly, 8.5 g/d). M-SHIME® supernatants were evaluated for their effect on the intestinal epithelial cell barrier and inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cells. Additionally, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and microbial community composition were assessed. In the baby and adult models, M-SHIME® supernatants from SCF treated vessels protected Caco-2 membrane integrity from LPS-induced damage. SCF treatment resulted in expansion of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and bifidobacterial, as well as increased SCFA production in all age groups. SCF tended to have the greatest effect on propionate production. These findings demonstrate the prebiotic potential of SCF in babies, adults, and the elderly and provide insight into the mechanisms behind the observed prebiotic effects.
Relationship between anesthesia methods and prognosis of patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Azhati Baihetiya , Dilixiati Diliyaer , Luo Cheng , Liu Qiang , Li QIAN-Jin , Wang Jie
Published: October 2022

Objective
To investigate the relationship between different anesthesia methods and the prognosis of patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical, pathological, and follow-up data of 491 patients diagnosed with NMIBC by transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) from January 2010 to December 2018 in our hospital. Patients were divided into groups according to the different methods of intraoperative anesthesia: intravenous, combined intravenous-inhalation, and local (spinal or epidural anesthesia) anesthesia groups. The recurrence-free survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier’s method and compared among the groups using the log-rank test. Cox multivariate analysis was used to identify the independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of patients with NIMBC.
Results
Of the 532 patients included in the study, 491 were followed up, with a follow-up rate of 92.3%. The average follow-up time was 33.5 months. There were 189 (38.5%) patients in the intravenous anesthesia group, 120 (24.4%) in the combined intravenous-inhalation anesthesia group, and 182 (37.1%) in the local anesthesia group. There was no significant difference in the clinical data among the three groups (P > 0.05). In the univariate analysis, anesthesia, previous history of bladder cancer, pathological grade, and tumor number and size were associated with the recurrence-free survival (P < 0.05). The multivariate analysis showed that anesthesia, previous history of bladder cancer, pathological grade, and tumor size and number were independent risk factors for bladder cancer recurrence (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Intraoperative anesthesia is an independent risk factor affecting the recurrence-free survival of patients with NMIBC. Compared with local and intravenous anesthesia, combined intravenous inhalation anesthesia may increase the risk of recurrence in patients with NMIBC after TURBT.
Resource Allocation and BER Performance Analysis of NOMA Based Cooperative Networks
Authors: Olfat Ali
Published: October 2022

Resource sharing and management can significantly improve the performance and spectral efficiency of wireless systems. In power domain non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) systems, users share a common bandwidth for simultaneous data transmission and therfore, the spectral efficiency of the system will be improved at the expense of increased complexity. Provided proper power allocation, it is possible to detect symbols at receivers. In this paper, the downlink of a cellular system is considered where a base station (BS) communicates with two users using NOMA with the assistance of a decode-and-forward (DF) relay. In the proposed scheme, receivers combine received signals from direct and cooperative links, and decode symbols by employing successive interference cancellation (SIC). The bit error rate (BER) performance of the proposed scheme is analyzed and the optimal power allocation is also derived through a Min-Max optimization, and a closed form approximation solution is proposed for BPSK modulation. Furthermore, it is proved that the proposed receiver achieves full diversity order for all users for proper choice of power allocation. Simulation results also corroborate BER and diversity analysis.
Integrative genomic analysis of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia lacking a genetic biomarker in the UKALL2003 clinical trial.
Authors: Schwab Claire , Cranston Ruth , Ryan Sarra , Butler Ellie , Winterman Emily , Hawking Zoe , Bashton Matthew , Enshaei Amir , Russell Lisa , Kingsbury Zoya , Peden John , Barretta Emilio , Murray James , Gibson Jude , Hinchliffe Andrew , Bain Robert , Vora Ajay , Bentley David , Ross Mark , Moorman Anthony , Harrison Christine
Published: October 2022

Incorporating genetics into risk-stratification for treatment of childhood B-progenitor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) has contributed significantly to improved survival. In about 30% B-ALL (B-other-ALL) without well-established chromosomal changes, new genetic subtypes have recently emerged, yet their true prognostic relevance largely remains unclear. We integrated next generation sequencing (NGS): whole genome sequencing (WGS) (n = 157) and bespoke targeted NGS (t-NGS) (n = 175) (overlap n = 36), with existing genetic annotation in a representative cohort of 351 B-other-ALL patients from the childhood ALL trail, UKALL2003. PAX5alt was most frequently observed (n = 91), whereas PAX5 P80R mutations (n = 11) defined a distinct PAX5 subtype. DUX4-r subtype (n = 80) was defined by DUX4 rearrangements and/or ERG deletions. These patients had a low relapse rate and excellent survival. ETV6::RUNX1-like subtype (n = 21) was characterised by multiple abnormalities of ETV6 and IKZF1, with no reported relapses or deaths, indicating their excellent prognosis in this trial. An inferior outcome for patients with ABL-class fusions (n = 25) was confirmed. Integration of NGS into genomic profiling of B-other-ALL within a single childhood ALL trial, UKALL2003, has shown the added clinical value of NGS-based approaches, through improved accuracy in detection and classification into the range of risk stratifying genetic subtypes, while validating their prognostic significance.
Comparison of the Effect of Pan-Retinal Photocoagulation versus Intravitreal Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Injection on the Foveal Vasculature Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Ahmadi Amin , Sadeghi Reza , Mirghorbani Masoud , Ghassemi Fariba , Zarei Mohammad , Khojasteh Hassan , Faghihi Hooshang , Pour Elias Khalili , Mirshahi Ahmad , Bayan Nikoo
Published: October 2022

Introduction:To evaluate and compare macular vasculature changes in 1 and 3-months after initiating treatment with either panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) or Intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection.Methods: A total of 62 eyes from 33 diabetic patients without macular edema were included in this prospective case series. Of these, thirty-nine eyes (21 patients) were allocated to the PRP group, while 23 eyes (12 patients) were treated with IVB biosimilar (Stivantâ). Optical tomography angiography (OCTA) was performed to measure foveal avascular zone (FAZ) characteristics as well as superficial (SCP) and deep vascular plexus (DCP) densities.Results: After the initiation of IVB injections, the FAZ area and Perimeter expanded modestly at month 1 but returned to baseline level after three months. In the PRP group, however, FAZ area and Perimeter were rather steady. FAZ area changes were significantly different between treatment groups at month 1 (p=0.02), but not at month 3 (p=0.31). The comparison of two groups based on mean FAZ perimeter change revealed a significant difference at month 1, but no significant difference at month 3 (p=0.03 and p=0.48, respectively). There was no significant difference in the FAZ circularity index change between the two groups at each timepoints (p=0.55 and p=0.31). The foveal vessel density changes in the SCP were not statistically significant between the two groups, at both month 1 and 3 (all P>0.05). A comparison of two treatment arms based on mean DCP density change revealed a significant difference at month 1, but not at month 3 (p=0.01 and p=0.49, respectively).Conclusion: Some vascular metrics changes in OCTA (e.g., FAZ area, Perim, Foveal DCP vascular density) may be significantly different between two types of therapies in the very early short-term (1 month) after treatment initiation. In the third month following treatment, all of these differences diminished to insignificance.
Simulation of inertial droplet dispersion and the spray mediated fluxes in the atmospheric boundary layer above waved water surface: a Lagrangian stochastic model versus direct numerical simulation
Authors: Troitskaya Yuliya , Druzhinin Oleg , Gladskikh Daria , Ermakova Olga , Soustova Irina
Published: October 2022

Lagrangian stochastic models (LSM) are widely used to model the dispersion of sea spray droplets injected from the water surface into the marine atmospheric boundary layer (MABL) and for evaluation of the spray impact on the exchange fluxes between the atmosphere and the ocean. While moving through the MABL the droplets pass through the region of high gradients of air velocity, temperature and humidity occurring in the vicinity of the air-water interface. In this case, the applicability of LSMs constructed under the assumption of weakly inhomogeneous flows is questionable. In this work, we develop a Lagrangian stochastic model taking into account the strongly inhomogeneous structure of the airflow in MABL and, in particular, the anisotropy of turbulence dissipation rate. The model constants and the diffusion matrix coefficients are calibrated by comparison of the LSM prediction for the profiles of droplet concentration and the exchange fluxes of sensible and latent heat against the results of direct numerical simulation (DNS) of turbulent, droplet-laden airflow over a waved water surface.
Igloo-technique for robotic radical prostatectomy—maximum nerve sparing for very early recovery of continence and sexual function
Authors: Fankhauser Christian Daniel , Malkmus Christian , Aschwanden Fabian Joel , Baumeister Philipp , Mattei Agostino
Published: October 2022

Background: We describe a surgical technique to facilitate very early return of continence and erectile function after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer.
Objective: To describe the “igloo technique” for RARP.
Design, setting, and participants: Prospective study of the first 13 patients to be treated with the igloo technique at a major urban hospital. Only patients without suspected invasion of the neurovascular bundle were included.
Surgical procedure: RARP was performed using “igloo technique” to preserve all periprostatic structures, including the puboprostatic ligament complex, neurovascular bundles, Santorini complex, endopelvic and periprostatic fascia, and accessory pudendal arteries.
Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: Descriptive analysis of the perioperative, pathological, and short-term oncological outcomes.
Results and limitations: The median operative time was 200 minutes [inter-quartile range (IQR): 188–210]. The transurethral catheter was removed after a median of 3 days post-RARP. In the first 24 hours after catheter removal, the median urine loss was 4g/24h[IQR: 2–10g/24h]. Ten days after surgery, 3 patients had urine loss of 10g/24h, and 10 patients had urine loss of 0g/24h. At 6 weeks after surgery, only 1 patient had urine loss of 10g/24h, and the remaining 12 patients all reported urine loss of 0g/24h. The median IIEF-15 decrease after surgery was 19[IQR: 5–36]. Positive surgical margins were reported for 4 participants(31%), and biochemical recurrence was observed in 1 subject who did not have a positive surgical margin.
Conclusions: The igloo technique is a technically demanding technique for RARP that spares most periprostatic structures with very early return of continence and erectile function after surgery. Despite case selection, a considerable proportion of participants showed a positive surgical margin.
Patient summary: Through improved preservation of the anatomical structures around the prostate, we achieved very early return of urinary continence and erectile function after surgical removal of the prostate.
The effect of cranial techniques on the heart rate variability response to psychological stress test in firefighter cadets
Authors: Wójcik Małgorzata , Siatkowski Idzi
Published: October 2022

Background Heart Rate Variability is a simple tool to monitor cardiovascular stress. The proper function of the cardiovascular system is a problem among firefighters. Physical activity has health benefits being correlated with psychological stress. Physically active people should be more resilient to psychological stress but this has not always been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to determine whether cranial techniques would have an effect on HRV parameters. Osteopathy in the cranial reduces stress and improves cardiovascular function. Methods Fifty-seven firefighter cadets aged 18–24 years (21.63 ± 1.41) participated in the study. All subjects had their heart rate variability measured and were randomly assigned either to the cranial techniques (CS) group with therapy performed once a week for 5 weeks) or to the control group (CO). After 5 weeks heart rate variability was measured again in both groups. Results In the Friedman test, in the CS group there was a statistically significant effect of cranial techniques on HR and LF, but not on HF; in the CO group, a statistically significant difference was observed for HR, HF and LF. In the Nemenyi test, in the CS group there was a statistically significant difference for HR and LF and in the CO group for HR, HF and LF. After applying hierarchical clustering with Euclidean measure and the complete method, dendrograms were drawn up showing similarities for HR, HF and LF values. Conclusion The cranial techniques and touch might exert a beneficial effect on HRV.
An Exploratory Factor Analysis of the Oblique Hope, Affectivity, Resiliency, and Empathy (O-HARE) Questionnaire
Authors: Wahl Kevin , Nerone Jeffrey , Weintraub Isabell
Published: October 2022

An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to evaluate a 54-item experimental questionnaire called the Oblique Hope, Affectivity, Resiliency, and Empathy (O-HARE). The sample was N = 181 adults in the United States who had experienced mental health concerns during their lifetime. Individuals were randomly assigned to a control condition (n = 95) and experimental condition (n = 86). Three instruments were administered online: O-HARE, NEO Five-Factor Inventory, and the Personality Assessment Screener. There was no significant effect size between the two conditions (d = .212). Factor loading using a Promax principal component rotation with coefficient's suppressed (< 0.40) indicated the O-HARE had a significant KMO = 89.8, p= .001 on 12 factors. The EFA produced low factor loadings for 18 items, and a reduction to 36 items on seven factors increased the KMO = 92.3, p = .001. The four O-HARE domains had significant t-scores with p values <.001. ANOVA demonstrated a strong relationship between the NEO-FFI-3, O-HARE, and PAS subscales. The t-scores were significant, with p values <.001 on all NEO-FFI-3 dimensions and PAS subscales.
Fabrication of NaCl aqueous electrolyte electric double layer capacitor as practical device and dependence of cell performance on pore structure of activated carbon
Authors: Onodera Hideharu , Tsubota Toshiki
Published: October 2022

In this study, electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) cells were fabricated as laminate type by using NaCl aqueous solution, which should be relatively safe electrolyte against environments and biological objects, for the investigation of the performance from a practical point of view. The capacitance value of the cell depended on the kind of activated carbon for EDLC electrode. The capacitance values of the cell fabricated from the best activated carbon were ca. 1.45 F at 0.1-1 mA of discharging current value and at 1.2 V of charging voltage. The capacitance value should be equivalent to commercial EDLCs although the charging voltage is smaller. The relationship between the properties related to pores of activated carbon and the capacitance value was examined. The enumerated values obtained from the Dubinin-Astakhov (DA) method for the activated carbons of this study were between 1 and 2, which could indicate that the micropore distribution of the activated carbons used in this study was heterogeneous. The capacitance value was found to be strongly related to the micropore volume calculated by the DA method from the adsorption isotherm of CO2 at 298 K. That is, the micropore volume estimated from the DA method should be used as the indicator for the selection of high-performance activated carbon for electrode of EDLC containing NaCl aqueous solution electrolyte.
Detecting Seed Nodes of Information Diffusion in Online Social Networks Using a New Degree Centrality
Authors: Ganai Aaquib Hussain , Hashmy Rana
Published: October 2022

Information diffusion in online social networks has always some deterministic sources that are acting as the real sources of information diffusion in online social networks. This information that is getting diffused from some sources are making their ways in the formation of information cascades in online social networks .These cascades can be handled through various cascading models of information diffusion in online social networks. We in our research are going to uncover these information cascades as information dissemination trees in online social networks. If we are able to uncover a limited number of sources as limited real information generators in online social networks, we can generate a limited number of dissemination trees. Thus number of limited source nodes can be used further to handle the information diffusion cascades in online social networks using information dissemination trees.
In this paper we are going to use a unique way of degree centrality of nodes to uncover the seed nodes in limited number with deterministic algorithm. We have tested our approach on three small social network datasets. Our method gives bests results and fits its best purpose for information tree generations when compared with the ordinary information dissemination tree generation in online social networks.
Bayesian probabilistic characterization of shear wave velocity combining cone penetration test and standard penetration test
Authors: Zhai Shijie , Du Guangyin
Published: October 2022

The shear wave velocity Vs is of interest since it can provide information related to soil small-strain stiffness characteristics and site classification. However, it is difficult to measure Vs directly without special equipment, particularly in smaller and medium-sized projects. Thus, numerous studies are conducted on V-S correlating, and extensive research has demonstrated that cone penetration test (CPT) and standard penetration test (SPT) data have a good relationship with shear wave velocity. Due to the uncertainty of the transformation model, such Vs values calculated by the empirical equation are unsatisfactory. The purpose of the present paper is to propose a Bayesian framework for determining the probabilistic characteristics of Vs in the context of transformation uncertainty. In addition, the Bayesian framework considers both in situ test data (SPT, CPT) and prior information. Results indicate that the Bayesian framework considering two in-situ tests accurately predicts the shear wave velocity. There are several advantages of using the Bayesian method described in this study. 1. The Bayesian framework incorporates both the inherent uncertainty of the shear wave velocity and the transformation uncertainty. 2. Prior information and field data can be combined. 3. In the framework, statistical characteristics of the Vs can be ascertained from small samples of field test data.
Comparison of performance between O-RADS, IOTA Simple Rules Risk assessment and ADNEX model in the discrimination of ovarian Brenner tumors
Authors: JIANHONG SHANG , Lei Ting , Wu LiHong , Lin MeiFang , Xie Hong-Ning
Published: October 2022

Purpose To describe the clinical and sonographic features of ovarian benign Brenner tumor (BBT) and malignant Brenner tumor (MBT), and to compare performance of four diagnostic models in differentiating them.
Methods Fifteen patients with BBTs and nine patients with MBTs were retrospectively identified in our institution from January 2003 and December 2021. One ultrasound examiner categorized each mass according to ovarian-adnexal reporting and data system (O-RADS), International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) Simple Rules Risk (SR-Risk) assessment and assessment of different neoplasias in the adnexa (ADNEX) models with/without CA125. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated to compare diagnostic performance.
Results Patients with MBT had higher CA125 serum level (62.5% vs 6.7%, P=0.009) and larger maximum diameter of lesion (89mm vs 43mm, P=0.009) than did those with BBT. BBT tended to have higher prevalence of calciﬁcations (100% vs 55.6%, P=0.012) and acoustic shadowing (93.3% vs 33.3%, P=0.004), and lower color scores manifesting none or minimal flow (100.0% vs 22.2%, P<0.001). Areas under curves of O-RADS, IOTA SR-Risk and ADNEX models with/without CA125 were 0.896, 0.913, 0.892 and 0.896, respectively. There were no significant differences between them.
Conclusion BBTs are often small solid tumors with sparse color Doppler signals, which contain calciﬁcations with posterior acoustic shadowing. The most common pattern of MBT is a large multilocular-solid or solid mass with irregular tumor borders, and most were moderately or richly vascularized at color Doppler. These four models have excellent performance in distinguishing them.
Acetylphenyl-Substituted Imidazolium Salts: Synthesis, Characterization, in silico Studies and Inhibitory Properties against Some Metabolic Enzymes
Authors: Demirci Özlem , Tezcan Burcu , Demir Yeliz , Taskin-Tok Tugba , Gök Yetkin , Aktaş Aydın , Güzel Bilgehan , Gülçin İlhami
Published: October 2022

Herein, we present how to thirteen new synthesize 1-(4-acetylphenyl)-3-alkylimidazolium salts by reacting 4-(1-H-imidazol-1-yl)acetophenone with a variety of benzyl halides that contain either electron-donating or electron-withdrawing groups. The structures of the new imidazolium salts were conformed using different spectroscopic method (1H NMR,13C NMR,19F NMR and FTIR) and elemental analysis techniques. Furthermore, the carbonic anhydrase and acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition activities of these compounds were investigated. They showed highly potent inhibition effect toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrases (hCAs) with Kivalues in the range of 8.30±1.71 to 120.77±8.61 nM for AChE, 16.97±2.04 to 84.45±13.78 nM for hCA I, and 14.09±2.99 to 69.33±17.35 nM for hCA II, respectively. Most of the synthesized imidazolium salts were appeared to be more potent than the standard inhibitor of tacrine (TAC) against AChE, and Acetazolamide (AZA) against CA. In the meantime, to prospect for potential synthesized imidazolium salt inhibitor(s) against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrases (hCAs), molecular docking and ADMET-based approach was exerted.
Perfect intrinsic squeezing at the superradiant phase transition critical point
Authors: Hayashida Kenji , Makihara Takuma , Peraca Nicolas Marquez , Padilla Diego Fallas , Pu Han , Kono Junichiro , Bamba Motoaki
Published: October 2022

Some of the most exotic properties of the quantum vacuum are predicted in ultrastrongly coupled photon–atom systems; one such property is quantum squeezing leading to suppressed quantum fluctuations of photons and atoms. This squeezing is unique because (1) it is realized in the ground state of the system and does not require external driving, and (2) the squeezing can be perfect in the sense that quantum fluctuations of certain observables are completely suppressed. Specifically, we investigate the ground state of the Dicke model, which describes atoms collectively coupled to a single photonic mode, and we found that the photon–atom fluctuation vanishes at the onset of the superradiant phase transition in the thermodynamic limit of an infinite number of atoms. Moreover, when a finite number of atoms is considered, the variance of the fluctuation around the critical point asymptotically converges to zero, as the number of atoms is increased. In contrast to the squeezed states of flying photons obtained using standard generation protocols with external driving, the squeezing obtained in the ground state of the ultrastrongly coupled photon–atom systems is resilient against unpredictable noise.
Exploring e- waste recycling behaviour intention among the households: Evidence from India
Authors: Vijayan Ravi Varma , Krishnan Malar Mathi , Parayitam Satyanarayana , Duraisami Shalini Prieya Anantharaman , Rathnaraj Narendra
Published: October 2022

The content of the study is to look into the origins and outcomes of recycling intentions. A conceptual model was built and evaluated in a productive result-oriented way following the principle of Theory of Planned Behaviour as a foundation (TPB). We investigated the effect of attitude, subjective norms, and hence perceived behavioural control on household inhabitants' recycling intentions empirically. We also studied the link between recycling intentions, habits, and convenience, as well as recycling behaviour. A structured investigation instrument was used to collect data from 228 respondents from households in a major metropolis in India's south region.. The hypotheses were tested using the hierarchical regression method. The results of hierarchical regression demonstrate that (i) recycling intention is strongly linked to attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control. and (ii) recycling intention, habits, and convenience are positively associated with the recycling behavior of household residents. This research adds to our understanding of local residents' recycling habits. To the best of our knowledge, the conceptual framework designed and evaluated on the Indian subcontinent were limited and it contributes to the large number of recycling intention studies and behavior.
Vascular Parameters and Endothelin 1 Measurements in Glaucoma Patients With Low and High-tension Optic Disc Hemorrhages
Authors: Almeida Izabela N F , Taniguchi Elise , Tito Cecília Victoria Agapito , Dias Diego Torres , Ushida Michele , Dorairaj Syril , Ritch Robert , Teixeira Sérgio H , Paranhos Augusto , Gracitelli Carolina P B , Kayser Cristiane , Prata Tiago Santos
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To compare vascular parameters, assessed by endothelin-1 (ET-1) blood levels, Laser Doppler Imaging (LDI) of distal phalanx, and nailfold capillaroscopy (NC), between open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients with low (LTDH) and high-tension optic disc hemorrhages (HTDH).
Methods: In this prospective study, patients were classified as LTDH if presenting an IOP<16 mmHg and HTDH if an IOP³16 mmHg at the time of DH detection. Demographic and ophthalmological data, ET-1 concentration, LDI (before and after 1, 10 and 20 minutes after cold stimulation) and NC findings were evaluated.
Results: Thirty-tree patients were included (mean age, 62.3±13 years). Regarding ET-1 blood level, it was 65% higher in the LTDH group (2.27±1.46 pg/ml) compared to the HTDH (1.37±0.57 pg/ml; p=0.03). In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between ET-1 blood concentration and IOP at the time of DH detection (r=-0.45; p=0.02). Blood flow measurement in LTDH patients were lower than those observed in patients with HTDH 10 and 20 minutes after cold stimulus (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Patients developing DH with lower IOPs have higher ET-1 blood levels and more peripheral vascular dysfunction (than those with higher IOPs), as estimated by LDI. These findings suggest that distinct underling mechanisms maybe involved in patients developing DH with different IOP ranges.
Neutrophilic Inflammation and Reactive Oxygen Species Production Promotes Necrotizing Enterocolitis induced Lung Injury in Mice
Authors: Zhao Wei , Su Yujuan , Yu Yujuan , Zou Mou , Xu Ying
Published: October 2022

This study was designed to investigate the role and mechanism of neutrophils in lung injury in mice with NEC. Combinational treatment with formula milk, hypoxia, and LPS was performed to establish NEC in 5-day-old mice. The pathological changes in intestinal and lung tissues were examined by HE staining. The terminal ileum was taken out for RNA-seq. Ly6G, NE, MPO staining, and flow cytometry were used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of neutrophils in lung tissues respectively. The mRNA relative expression levels of inflammatory factors in intestinal and lung tissues were detected by RT-qPCR; the ROS release level in neutrophils stimulated by fMLP was detected by an enzyme-labeled instrument. The role of ROS in NEC-induced lung injury was further validated by the NAC, a ROS-specific inhibitor. The expression levels of genes in the Keap1—Nrf2 pathway were determined by RT-qPCR. Results showed that compared with the Ctrl group, the intestinal and lung tissues of the mice in the NEC group were significantly damaged. The mRNA relative expression levels of inflammatory factors and anti-oxidant genes were increased, while the expression levels of anti-ROS genes were downregulated. Mouse intestinal RNA-seq results suggested a strong enrichment in the neutrophil degranulation pathway. The levels of NE, MPO, and ROS released by neutrophils were significantly higher than those in the Ctrl group. And the ROS released by neutrophils is involved in NEC-induced lung injury by regulating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway as the inhibition of the release of ROS can alleviate the injury of intestinal and lung tissues. Thus our study demonstrates that NAC has therapeutic potential for NEC-induced lung injury.
Stakeholders’ perspectives on the management measures in Rapana venosa fisheries in the Black Sea Turkish coast
Authors: Dağtekin Murat , Karapaça Şahin , Ceyhan Vedat , Mısır Devrim Selim , Altuntaş Cemil , Uysal Osman , İlhan Salih , Dağtekin Büket Buşra
Published: October 2022

The Rapa whelk (Rapana venosa), which entered the Black Sea as an invader, has become a commercial stock and has brought many problems in its management since the 1980s. This research aimed to get a detailed idea about the views of the stakeholders of the Rapa whelk sector and to develop concrete and applicable suggestions for the sustainability of the sector. For this, first of all, all stakeholder groups were brought together and their opinions were taken. Afterward, the management measure suggestions collected from the group were evaluated by everyone through questionnaires. When the general opinions of the stakeholders were evaluated, it was seen that most of the beam trawlers argued that legal restrictions should be softened to be able to fish more while academicians and representatives of environmental organizations stated that environmentally friendly fishing gear should be designed and used to protect the marine ecosystem. The policymakers participating in the workshop think that some arrangements can be made in the current legislation, but there is no need for radical changes. Industry sector stakeholders participating in the workshop, on the other hand, think that measures that restrict their production, such as quota limitation, are not appropriate. In summary, in the study, alternative management measures were examined and their possible effects were evaluated. As a result of this study, recommendations were made for sustainable fishing of Rapa whelk.
Effect of naphthalene dispersant on the hydration kinetics of cement slurry: Nuclear magnetic resonance-based investigation
Authors: Wang Xin , Zou Quanle , Liu Ying , Li Zuoyuan
Published: October 2022

Cementing technology can effectively extend the life of coalbed methane surface drilling. The fluidity of the cement slurry during cementing is critical to the cementing quality. It is an effective way to improve the cementing quality by increasing the fluidity and pumping efficiency of cement paste by adding dispersants. In this paper, the effect of naphthalene dispersant on the hydration kinetics of G-grade cement was investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance. The results show that the increase of naphthalene dispersant mass fraction can effectively slow down the hydration of cement. The 1st relaxation peak of cement is correlated with its mobility, and the calculation of its peak index, area size, area share and combined action factor can be used to evaluate the retarding and dispersing effect of FDN on cement slurry more accurately. The sulfonic acid group of naphthalene dispersant can form a more stable complex with Ca2+, resulting in a reduced hydration rate. naphthalene dispersant can decompose in cement into anions adsorbed on the surface of cement particles, forming a solvation film and producing a lubricating and dragging effect. The obtained research results provide theoretical support for the preparation and pumping of on-site cementing slurry from three aspects: the fluidity of the naphthalene dispersant modified cement slurry, the retarding effect and how to choose the pumping period.
Expression and functional analyses of Niemann–Pick C2 gene in Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot
Authors: Zhou Hongxu , Yan Hong , Wang Endong , Zhang Bo , Xu Xuenong
Published: October 2022

As a new protein class of semiochemical binding and transporting, Niemann-Pick proteins type C2 (NPC2) in arthropods has received more attentions in recent decade. However, the gene function has not been studied in phytoseiid mites for biocontrol potential. In current study, we identified and cloned a new NPC2 gene PpNPC2a from transcriptome of a predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot. PpNPC2a encoded 181 amino acids with a conserved ML domain. From phylogenetic analyses, PpNPC2a was found homologous to NPC2-1 of Galendromus occidentalis Nesbitt. We also measured gene expression in different stages and tissues in P. persimilis. PpNPC2a transcript was significantly higher in female adults than in male adults or other immature stages. Due to tiny body size of predatory mites, we only examined tissue expressions in two sections, posterior part of which was found higher gene transcription of PpNPC2a. To investigate the potential function of PpNPC2a in P. persimilis, we interfered gene expression in female adults by feeding dsRNA. The relative expression was found decreased by 59.1% and 78.2% in 24 h and 72 h after treatments, respectively. The dsNPC2a-treated females had less preference to spider mite infested plant, but we did not find their insensitiveness in response to four representative compounds of HIPVs, including 4,8,12-trimethyl-1,3,7,11-tridecatetraene (TMTT), Methyl salicylate (MeSA), β-Caryophyllene and Linalool. These results indicated PpNPC2a may play a role in P. persimilis in response to plant volatiles.
Gender diversity in Animal Cognition Science
Authors: Gavriilidi Ioanna , Damme Raoul Van
Published: October 2022

Women’s representation in science is increasing steadily, with some fields closing gender parity in terms of participation and scientific output. Animal Cognition appears to fall into that category. However, a careful analysis of gender author balance in 600 animal cognition papers revealed some remaining disparities. Despite that female animal cognition scientists dominate first authorship positions, receive equal citations, and publish in equally high quality journals, they are still severely under-represented in positions of seniority. In addition, disparities remain at the group level, where all-female author teams are not only the minority in our dataset, but also seem to receive disproportionally less citations than all-male author teams, regardless the quality of the publications. We also found that female animal cognition scientists focus on different taxa, and tend to include study animals of both sexes more often than male scientists. Our study suggests that despite the meaningful contribution of female scientists to the field, Animal Cognition continues to be marred by gender biases.
Non-random distribution of maax pepper plants (Capsicum annum var. glabriusculum) in Mayan homegardens: Effects on plant size, fruit yield and viral diseases
Authors: Solís-Montero Virginia , Bello-Bedoy Rafael , Munguía-Rosas Miguel A.
Published: October 2022

Homegardens are complex agroforestry systems with a multilayer vertical structure and a horizontal structure with different uses and management intensities. This environmental heterogeneity allows for the establishment of wild and cultivated plants with contrasting environmental requirements in a predictable spatial pattern. Wild pepper is a plant associated with the shade of fleshy-fruited perennials in natural vegetation in North America. In the Yucatan, wild pepper is known as maax pepper by the Maya and is a volunteer plant that commonly grows in homegardens where it gets little or no management besides fruit harvesting. Here, we assessed whether maax pepper was spatially associated with perennial plants or inanimate objects and whether this association affects plant size, fruit yield or viral diseases. According to the results, maax pepper occurred closer to perennials than expected. Although solar radiation beneath the canopy of these perennials was significantly lower than in open spaces, this association did not favor fruit yield by the peppers. There was a spatial association with inanimate objects (mainly buildings) and peppers were taller and produced more fruits in the proximity of these objects. This association was not mediated by reduced solar radiation. We suggest that the amelioration of other environmental stressor(s) and/or the more intensive management of cultivated plants around buildings may underlie this association. Our results clearly show that both biotic and abiotic elements typically found in homegardens influence the distribution and performance of maax pepper in this traditional agroforestry system.
Adaptation strategies of leaf traits and leaf economic spectrum in urban garden plants
Authors: Liying Xu , Zhang Nana , Wei Tongchao , Liu Bingyang , Shen Lanyi , Liu Yang , Liu Dounan
Published: October 2022

In order to explore the adaptation strategies of urban garden plants leaf traits and the relationship of different life forms to climate zone. In this study, we used Mudanjiang of Heilongjiang Province and Bozhou of Anhui Province as the research sites, 17 and 9 woody garden plants were selected respectively, measured 7 leaf morphological characters and 4 photosynthetic pigment contents. One way ANOVA was used to reveal the variation characteristics of leaf functional traits of trees, shrubs and vines in two urbans. Two-way ANOVA was used to reveal the plant leaf traits under climate and life form. Pearson correlation analysis and principal component analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficient between leaf functional traits of plants in the two places. Leaf dry matter content (LDMC) and Vein density (VD) of different life forms in Mudanjiang were higher than Bozhou (P < 0.05), the Relative water content (RWC) in Bozhou was higher, while Vein density (VD) of trees and shrubs in two urbans were significant ((P < 0.05), but the vine was not significant. The tree and shrub species photosynthetic pigments were larger in Mudanjiang, but it was opposite in vines. Both leaf vein density (VD) and stomatal density (SD) showed a very significant positive correlation in two nrbans (P < 0.01), and both were significantly positively correlated with specific leaf area (SLA) (P < 0.05), negatively correlated with leaf thickness (LT), and the relationship between pigment content were closer. The response was obvious differences in leaf traits of different life forms species in urban to climate, but the correlations between the traits showed convergence, which reflects that the adaptation strategies of garden plant leaves to different habitats are both coordinated and relatively independent.
Evaluating the quality of surface carbonized woods modified with a contact charring or a gas flame charring technique
Authors: Kymäläinen Maija , Dömény Jakub , Schwarzkopf Matthew , Šeda Vit , Rautkari Lauri
Published: October 2022

Surface carbonization, or charring, of wooden exterior cladding boards is a modification method that creates a fully organic barrier layer in resemblance to a coating. The process effectively degrades the wood and transforms it into a carbonaceous residue that protects the underlying unmodified wood from environmental stresses. The surface quality of wood modified in this manner is a combination of several factors and depends on the manufacturing method and wood species. To assess the quality of spruce and birch modified with contact and flame charring techniques, several experiments were set up from the nanoscale to macroscopic evaluation of surface resistance to different stresses. The degree of changes in elemental composition scale with the modification severity with little differences between wood species. The carbon structures analyzed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) were found to be amorphous, but the electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) revealed higher ordering with what is assumed to be random graphitic stacking of carbon sheets. These carbon-carbon bonds are stable, so a higher ordering is hypothesized to induce improved resistance to exterior stresses. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a clear difference between contact charred and flame charred woods. The selected contact charring temperature was not high enough to induce the transformation of cell walls from anisotropic into an isotropic material but provided other benefits such as a relatively crack-free, smooth and scratch resistant surface. Surface roughness was able to adequately predict the surface quality of the contact charred samples and scratch tests were found to be suitable for evaluating the mechanical stress resistance of the surface instead of abrasion. In terms of overall quality, birch instead of spruce was concluded to better respond to both charring methods, although contact charring eliminates some species-specific characteristics, resulting in more homogeneous surfaces.
The lost Balloon at midnight: a case report reveals the inevitability of heart team existence
Authors: Elbayomi Mohamed , Weyand Michael , Nooh Ehab , Harig Frank
Published: October 2022

Background:
Dislodgement of a coronary stent-balloon catheter during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is rare but is a life-threatening complication.
Case summary:
A 57- year-old male presented with a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Coronary angiography revealed total thrombotic occlusion of the Right coronary artery (RCA). Following the balloon dilatation of the RCA and while trying to retrieve the balloon catheter, the balloon was dislodged from the catheter shaft and entrapped in the coronary vessel. Under cardiopulmonary bypass, with antegrade cardioplegic arrest, the balloon was extracted through a coronary arteriotomy. Right coronary revascularization was done with reversed saphenous vein graft (SVG).
Discussion:
Given the variety of equipment that can be retained in the coronary artery and the multitude of mechanisms by which it may be entrapped, there are no straightforward techniques applicable to all situations. Specific guidelines or recommendations on properly managingthese potentially life‐threatening complications do not exist. However, the most crucial issue in the management of these cases is the hemodynamic status of the patient as well as the coronary flow in the vessel with entrapped device or stent. In our case, the RCA was retrogradely perfused from the left coronary artery, which provided time to transfer the patient to cardiovascular surgical backup.
Engineering tumor-specific gene nanomedicine to recruit and activate T cells for enhanced immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhou Shi-Kun , Wang Yan , Lu ZiDong , Zhang Yue , Xu Cong-Fei , Wang Jun
Published: October 2022

PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy that eliminates intratumoral inhibition signals of T cells is successful, but poor therapeutic benefits are often observed. Increasing T-cell infiltration and the quantity of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in tumor tissue can improve efficacy but remains challenging. Herein, we devised tumor-specific gene nanomedicines to mobilize tumor cells themselves to robustly secrete CXCL9 (a chemokine of T cells) and anti-PD-L1 scFv (αPD-L1, a blocking agent of PD-L1) for enhanced immunotherapy. Our tyrosinase promoter-driven gene nanomedicine, NPTyr-C9AP, can specifically coexpress CXCL9 and αPD-L1 in melanoma cells, thereby forming a sharp gradient of CXCL9 between tumor and peripheral tissues for T-cell recruitment and a high intratumoral concentration of αPD-L1 for enhancing T-cell activation. As a result, NPTyr-C9AP treatment showed strong antimelanoma effects. Furthermore, specific coexpression of CXCL9 and αPD-L1 in various tumor cells was achieved by replacing the tyrosinase promoter of NPTyr-C9AP with a survivin promoter, which increased the infiltration and activation of T cells as well as therapeutic efficacy in multiple tumors. This study provides a novel strategy to maximize the immunotherapeutic outcome regardless of the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment.
Differences in methanogenic pathways and methanogenic communities in paddy soils under three typical cropping modes
Authors: Shen Wanyu , Ji Yang , Huang Qiong , Zhu Xiaoli , Ma Jing , Zhang Guangbin , Xu Hua
Published: October 2022

Microbial methane (CH4) production and emission are various in different paddy fields. However, little is known about values of anaerobically produced δ13CH4, methanogenic pathways, and their dominant communities in different paddy soils. Through anaerobic incubation experiments and the stable carbon isotope with fluoromethane inhibitor method, CH4 production potential (MPP), the relative contribution of acetoclastic methanogenesis (fac), and the abundance and community composition of methanogens in paddy soils were measured under three typical cropping modes (Rice-Wheat, RW; Rice-Fallow, RF; Double-Rice, DR) in China. The results showed that MPP was 13.4 μg CH4 g–1 d–1 in DR soil, 23% and 46% higher than that in RW and RF soils, respectively. Moreover, RF soil had the highest produced δ13CH4 value (–43.9‰) and the lowest produced δ13CO2 value (–26.3‰). Based on the isotope fractionations associated with H2/CO2-dependent methanogenesis (1.049–1.062), fac values in RF soil (80–98%) were much higher than that in RW (39–60%) and DR (52–75%) soils. Compared to RF soil, mcrA gene abundance in RW and DR soils increased by 29% and 40%, respectively. Furthermore, the dominant methanogens in RF soil were Methanosarcina (acetoclastic methanogens) while Methanosarcina and Methanobacterium (hydrogenotrophic methanogens) were in RW and DR soils. Redundancy analysis revealed that soil pH and soil texture affected the community structure of methanogens. These findings suggest that differences in paddy MPP and methanogenic pathways under the three typical cropping modes might be caused by the changes in methanogenic abundance and community composition driven by soil pH.