bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyamide-6 surface cracked forms nanofibers: A novel way for increasing the surface roughness, and porosity
Authors: Aghayari Sedigheh
Published: January 2024

Here away used to reduce the porosity of the nanofibers, which is
removing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers from PVA/poly amide 6 (PA6)
nanofibers by water treatment. Measuring the porosity of the electrospun
web before and after treatment by the Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET)
method proved this. The specific surface area of the web was 60 %
reduced after water treatment. Surface roughness and pore volume have
reduced after water treatment. Also, I introduced BET as the method for
measuring the diameters of mesopores (or lower than 100nm). I used BET
to prove that the cracks can make mesopores on the nanofibers.
Photosynthetic CO2 exchange of artificial and natural seedlings of Rhizophora apiculata (South Vietnam)
Authors: Zhirenko Nikolay , Kurbatova Julia
Published: January 2024

The paper presents the results of studies about photosynthesis at the
leaf level in-situ of seedlings of Rhizophora apiculata of natural and
artificial origin. The obtained values of photosynthesis are distributed
in three zones, corresponding to its values obtained in the
pre-afternoon, afternoon and afternoon. The main inhibitory factor
affecting photosynthesis (if we do not take into account PAR) is a
disturbance in the water balance of leaves. The dependence of
photosynthesis on temperature and CO2 concentration has been determined.
Quality-related fault monitoring for multi-phase batch process based on multiway weighted elastic network
Authors: Yao Hongjuan , Zhao Xiaoqiang , Li Wei , Hui Yongyong
Published: January 2024

A quality-related fault monitoring method of multi-phase batch process
based on multiway weighted elastic network is proposed. Firstly, to make
the phase division for batch process more accurately, an improved
affinity propagation clustering is developed. Secondly, a multiway
weighted elastic network is developed in each phase. On the one hand,
quality-related subspace and quality-unrelated subspace are construct in
each phase to achieve dual monitoring of process fault and quality
anomalies. On the other hand, kernel density estimation is used to
measure the contribution of each element in each subspace to the fault.
According to the difference of the contribution, different weight is
assigned to enhance the fault features and eliminate noise. Finally,
support vector data description is used to establish monitoring indexes
in both quality-related subspace and quality-unrelated subspace.
Compared with traditional methods, the superiority of the proposed
method have been verified by monitoring the penicillin fermentation
process.
Right ventricular geometry and function in chronic primary mitral and aortic valve regurgitation: a three-dimensional echocardiography study.
Authors: Abdelgawad Hoda , Shehata Mahmoud , Muraru Denisa , Abdel-Hay Mohamed , Ashour Sanaa , Previato Martina , Cucchini Umberto , Iliceto Sabino , Badano Luigi
Published: January 2024

Aims To compare the effects of LV volume overload due to chronic organic
MR or AR on RV shape and function. Methods and results We studied 63
patients with moderate-severe or severe primary MR and 36 patients with
moderate or severe AR. 3D echocardiography of LV and RV was performed to
measure volumes and EF. RV fractional area change (FAC) was calculated,
and RV shape was assessed by calculating the RV eccentricity index.LV
EDVi was significantly larger in the patients with AR than in those with
MR. RV EF and RV FAC were lower in pts with AR than in those with MR. RV
EI was significantly higher in the AR group. In both groups, LV EDVi
showed positive correlations with RV EI ( r= 0.693 for AR and r=0.399
for MR) and negative correlations (RV EF :r= -0.545 for AR and r=- 0.383
for MR ; RV FAC: r=-0.816 for AR and r=-0.647 for MR, ). LV sphericity
index showed negative correlations (RVFAC: r= -0.512 and r=-0.608 f ;RV
EF:r=-0.408 and r=-0.469 respectively ) and positive correlation with
the RV EI (r= 0.39 and r=0.511 respectively) .LV EDVi and LV sphericity
index were found to be the only independent predictors of RV
eccentricity index, EF, and FAC. Conclusions RV remodeling in chronic LV
overload due to MR or AR occurs independently on PASP values. LV size
and shape are the only independent predictors of RV geometry and
function. Accordingly, chronic AR has a greater impact on RV than MR
Induction of labour at term compared with expectant management in women over 40 years of age: a retrospective study.
Authors: Marin Elena , Fernández Vanesa Rodríguez , Rodríguez Laura González , Cajal Carlos López Ramón y
Published: January 2024

Objective To compare maternal and neonatal outcomes of induction of
labour at term to those of expectant management in women over 40 years
of age. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Data were derived
from the Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro birth cohort (Vigo). Population Women
at ≧40 years of age and ≥39 weeks of gestation that delivered from 1
January 2012 to 31 December 2017. Methods Women were classified into two
groups: expectant management group (women who delivered from 1 January
2012 to 31 December 2014) and nonmedically indicated induction of labour
group (women who delivered from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017).
These two groups were described and compared. Main outcome measures The
primary outcome was the route of delivery. Perinatal results were also
studied. Results There was a total of 603 pregnant women in the
expectant management group compared to 634 women in the induction group.
The rate of cesarean section did not increase in the maternal age-based
labour induction group compared to the expectant management group.
Subgroup analysis did not demonstrate an increased risk by parity. Women
in the expectant management group were more likely to require neonatal
intensive care unit admission and need pediatric support. Conclusion
Compared to expectant management, induction of labour at 39 weeks of
gestation results in significantly better neonatal outcomes without
increasing the cesarean section rates in older women. Tweetable abstract
Induction of labour in women over 40 years of age associates better
perinatal outcomes without increasing the rate of caesarean sections.
Satisfaction of Anaesthesia Staff with an Automated Drug Dispenser as an Anaesthesia Workstation
Authors: Farsi Sara , Darwesh Bayan , Jamal Ragad , Ardawi Abdulhameed , Sharara Mahmoud
Published: January 2024

Rationale: Automated drug dispensers have replaced floor stocks and
medication cabinets in all hospital areas. Anaesthesia workstations have
been proven to be particularly challenging owing to the critical
patients under their care and the nature of the medications they
administer. Aims and objectives: To understand how well anaesthesia
personnel accept an automated drug dispenser cabinet (ADC) as an
anaesthesia workstation and investigate its effect on drug management
and costs in the operating room (OR). Methods: We used mixed methods.
The first part consisted of a cross-sectional study evaluating
anaesthesia staff satisfaction with the ADC using the technology
acceptance model (TAM). Second, we analysed the expenditure of five
commonly used anaesthetic medications by the OR before and after the
introduction of the ADC. Results: We received 63 responses from 96
anaesthesia department employees, giving us a 65.6% response rate.
There was a significant positive relationship between perceived
usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), and technology acceptance
(TA) (p<0.001). Regarding PU, 38 (60.3%) respondents felt
that the ADC improved their performance as anaesthetists, and 52
(82.5%) felt that it improved patient safety. Regarding ease of use, 45
(71.4%) respondents found the ADC easy to use, and 55 (87.3%) felt
that learning how to use the ADC was easy. The satisfaction rate among
anaesthesia department employees was 73%. Regarding drug management,
the OR expenditure on hyperbaric bupivacaine, propofol, fentanyl,
dexamethasone, and ondansetron dropped significantly by 462, 3,516,
1,806, 660, and 258 vials, respectively. The drop in expenditure on
these five medications alone resulted in savings of 35,543.94 SAR
(9,744.23 USD). Conclusion: ADCs can replace anaesthesia workstations
and lead to cost savings and improved drug management in ORs. However,
in order to succeed, cooperation will be required between the
anaesthesia providers, pharmacy department, and hospital administration.
Different performing trees manifest varied scaling relationships at individual and branch levels
Authors: Zou Guiwu , Xu Kang , Yang Qingpei , Niklas Karl , Wang Gen-Xuan
Published: January 2024

Competition is an important factor influencing the structure and
dynamics of plant communities, and understanding species coexistence.
Tree architectural traits, such as height-to-diameter (H-D) and branch
length-to-diameter (L-d) relationships influence species competitiveness
through affecting light capture by altering the occupation of space.
Unfortunately, little is known about how the H-D and L-d scaling
allometric exponent related to tree performance (growth vigour) in
competition. We surveyed 1739 (1642 living and 97 dead) individual trees
from an even-aged dense aerial seeding forest of Masson pine
(Pinus massoniana), in which 51 trees with 1087 first-order
branches were destructively sampled. Using the H-D and branch L-d
scaling data, we determined (1) whether the H-D scaling exponent
numerically differed across different levels of tree performance, and
(2) whether the L-d scaling relationship differed across tree
performance and branch vertical position in crowns. The results indicate
that (1) the H-D scaling exponent numerically decreased as tree
performance deteriorated; (2) the L-d scaling relationship differed
across tree performance, and the numerical value of the scaling exponent
of “inferior” trees was significantly larger than that of “moderate”
and “superior” trees; (3) the L-d scaling exponent declined as branch
position approached ground level, and it was significantly higher in
upper branches; and (4) overall, the branch scaling exponent numerically
decreased as tree vigour ameliorated in each canopy layer, but decreased
significantly only in the intermediate layer. This study highlights the
variation within (and linkage among) length-to-diameter scaling
relationships across tree performance at the individual and branch
levels. This linkage provides novel insights into tree competitive
strategies and potential mechanisms of tree mortality in the competition
of subtropical forests.
Insights from longitudinal patterns of local extinction and colonization in giant pandas
Authors: Tang Junfeng , Swaisgood Ronald , Owen Megan , Zhao Xuzhe , Wei Wei , Wei Fuwen , Pilfold Nicholas , YANG XUYU , GU XIAODONG , Hong Mingsheng , Zhou Hong , Zhang Jindong , Han Han , Zhang Zenjun
Published: January 2024

With the Sixth Mass Extinction becoming an increasingly intractable
juggernaut, it is vital to understand the patterns and drivers of local
extinction and colonization events of at-risk species under global
change. Here, we examine whether observed local colonization and
extinctions of giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) during three time
periods (1985-1988, 1998-2002, 2011-2014) are correlated with protected
area status, local rarity and abiotic factors (i.e., climate and
land-use variables). We observed a decreased rate of local extinction
and a relatively stable rate of local colonization through time, and
fount that (i) local extinctions were more likely and local colonization
less likely in areas with high local rarity, harsh abiotic (e.g., low
proportion of forest cover) and unprotected area status, and (ii) the
relative importance of these factors changed over time. These findings
provide insights into the factors governing panda recovery and showcase
how conservation action can reverse fortunes and facilitate species
recovery.
A comprehensive mathematical model of memory-TFT threshold voltage shift used in a TSTDP memristive synapse
Authors: Karimi Gholamreza , Rastegar Soraya
Published: January 2024

New emerging nano-scale technologies like hydrogenated
noncrystalline-silicon thin-film transistors (TFTs) and memristors,
fabricated at low temperatures and over large areas, permit low-cost
processing and 3D integration with CMOS cores. Here, we aim to propose a
mathematical model which explains the memory-TFT threshold voltage shift
due to the gate bias instability. Then, based on this mathematical
approach, we propose a novel learning synapse composed of a voltage/flux
driven memristor in parallel with a common-source memory-TFT with a
memristive load. The proposed device realizes the triplet-based
spike-timing-dependent plasticity rule (TSTDP) as a more realistic form
of learning than the purely pair-based STDP (PSTDP). PSTDP is a synaptic
learning rule which utilizes a constant-frequency pairing protocol to
induce synaptic weight change and cannot explain the modification due to
the frequency changes of spike pairs, and also the outcomes of triplet
and quadruplet experiments. However, TSTDP improves the learning
capabilities of the conventional PSTDP and reproduces the results of
more electrophysiological experiments. In this paper, we apply various
spike patterns like different-frequency and different-timing spike
pairs, spike triplets, and quadruplets to the proposed device. Our
simulations confirm a close match with the experimental data sets of
real biological synapses.
A novel OsmiR535-OsSPL7-OsNramp5 regulatory module mediates cadmium accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Yue Er-Kui , Ruan Songlin , Liu Zhen , Zha Yan , Rong Fuxi , Qian Haifeng
Published: January 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a strong toxic heavy metal pollutant, which poses a
serious threat to plant development. Thus, it is vital important to
understand the molecular mechanism of Cd accumulation, as to help reduce
its potential toxicity to crops and maintain food security. MicroRNAs
(miRNAs) act as critical gene regulators, participating in almost all
abiotic stress processes. MiR535 is an ancient conserved miRNA, can be
highly induced in the low concentration of Cd, but its biological
functions in Cd stress is still unclear. In this study, we discovered
that the OsSPL7 served as the main target gene of miR535. Moreover, rice
overexpressing miR535 (OE535) promoted root length and Cd content, in
contrast, plants knockout miR535 (mir535) and overexpressing OsSPL7
(SPL7myc) both had a reduced root length and Cd levels under Cd stress.
Further, more Cd was translocated from rice husk to brown rice in OE535
plants but less translocated in mir535/SPL7OE plants. Most interesting
and importantly, OsSPL7 could directly bind to the promoter of a major
Cd transporter gene OsNramp5, and repress its transcripts levels to
mediate Cd absorption. Collectively, this provides a new insight into
the molecular basis of rice response to Cd stress by the
miR535-SPL7-Nramp5 pathway.
Novel compound heterozygous COL3A1 variants are associated with Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Li Xiangnian , Liao Shengjie , zhang xiao shen
Published: January 2024

Aim: Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) is an autosomal-
dominant inherited disorder result on collagen type III alpha-1 chain
(COL3A1) gene mutation. vEDS is associated with a decreased life
expectancy due to spontaneous arterial, intestinal, and uterine rupture.
The diagnosis of vEDS is supported by genetic testing confirming the
presence of pathogenic variations in COL3A1. Although how COL3A1
mutation in the precise mechanism can lead to the multiple vascular
involvements seen at a pathological level remains unclear. COL3A1
encodes the Collagen alpha-1(III) chain in humans. The alterations in
content and properties of type III collagen, can lead to organ
fragility. Genome sequencing revealed heterozygous COL3A1 variants
(c.4223C>T p.F1408S ) as likely genetic cause of vEDS in
this present case. Methods: We assessed the young adult
diagnosed with Stanford A aortic dissection without a history of
hypertension and undertook Sanger sequencing. Results: We
identified novel compound heterozygous variant in COL3A1: a missense-
c.4223C>T p.F1408S Conclusion: Given the clinical phenotype
and identified variants we suggest that this is the first patient
reported to date with vEDS due to c.4223C>T mutations in
COL3A1.
Screening of CHO-K1 endogenous promoters for expressing recombinant proteins in mammalian cell cultures
Authors: Tossolini Ileana , Gugliotta Agustina , López-Díaz Fernando , Kratje Ricardo , Prieto Claudio
Published: January 2024

For the production of recombinant protein therapeutics in mammalian
cells, a high rate of gene expression is desired and hence strong
viral-derived promoters are commonly used. However, they usually induce
cellular stress and can be susceptible to epigenetic silencing.
Endogenous promoters, which coordinates their activity with cellular and
bioprocess dynamics while at the same time they maintain high expression
levels, may help to avoid such drawbacks. In this work, endogenous
promoters were identified based on high expression levels in RNA-seq
data of CHO-K1 cells cultured in high density. The promoters of Actb,
Ctsz, Hmox1, Hspa5, Vim and Rps18 genes were selected for generating new
expression vectors for the production of recombinant proteins in
mammalian cells. The in silico-derived promoter regions were
experimentally verified and the majority showed transcriptional activity
comparable or higher than CMV. Also, stable expression following a
reduction of culture temperature was investigated. The characterized
endogenous promoters (excluding Rps18) constitute a promising
alternative to CMV promoter due to their high strength, long-term
expression stability and integration into the regulatory network of the
host cell. These promoters may also comprise an initial panel for
designing cell engineering strategies and synthetic promoters, as well
as for industrial cell line development.
Spherical Micro-nano Encapsulated Boron-based Energetic Materials with Improved Combustion Performance
Authors: Hu Yinghui , Wang Xuwen , Zhang Jian , Zhu Zhaoyang , Ren Xiaoting , Yang Yulin , Lin Kaifeng , Pang Aimin , Shuai Yong
Published: January 2024

The low energy release efficiency seriously hinders the application of
Boron (B) powder as metal fuel in solid propellants. To overcome this
issue, a series of B-based micro-nanospheres were produced by
encapsulating B-based metastable intermixed composites (MICs) with
ammonium perchlorate (AP) through a solvent evaporation-induced
self-assembly (EISA) method in this work. A self-developed combustion
system that contains ignition pool, indicator light, and high-speed
camera to precisely monitor ignition delay time and burning time was
utilized. The EISA-prepared B/Bi2O3/AP composite show higher combustion
temperature (1435 oC) and shorter ignition delay time (379±25 ms) than
physically mixed sample (1264 oC and 1035±63 ms). The isolated reaction
units of B/Bi2O3/AP-EISA micro-nano composite accelerate heat transfer
and accumulation and reduce sintering and agglomeration, thus promoting
the combustion efficiency of B powder. This study presents a promising
strategy by doping and encapsulating process to increase the combustion
performance of B based metal fuel.
Retrospective Cohort Study of Ibuprofen Based Pain Regimen to Reduce Postoperative Opioid Use in Adult Tonsillectomy
Authors: Esce Antoinette , Meiklejohn Duncan
Published: January 2024

Objectives: Quantify the effect of a non-opioid pain regimen on
postoperative opioid prescriptions filled by the patient after adult
tonsillectomy. Design: Retrospective cohort study including a time frame
before and after a practice change from an opioid/acetaminophen-based
postoperative pain regimen to a regimen based on ibuprofen and
acetaminophen. Half of study subjects received a prescription for
postoperative opioid medications. Half were prescribed ibuprofen
following surgery and only provided with opioid analgesia as a rescue
medication, where ibuprofen was medically contraindicated, or at patient
request following counseling regarding risks of opioids. The New Mexico
Prescription Monitoring System was used to verify filled opioid
prescriptions. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used
for data analysis. Settings: Tertiary care academic medical center.
Participants: All elective adult tonsillectomies performed consecutively
by a single surgeon. Main Outcome Measures: Percent of patients filling
an opioid prescription. Results: Ninety-nine patients were included in
analysis. 53 received an opioid-based postoperative regimen and 46
received an ibuprofen/acetaminophen-based regimen. There was no
difference in the bleeding rate between the two groups. Significantly
fewer patients in the ibuprofen group filled postoperative opioid
prescriptions when compared to the group that did not receive ibuprofen
(40% vs. 96.2%, p<0.0001, OR=0.02). Conclusion: Ibuprofen is
a safe and effective analgesic following adult tonsillectomy and
significantly reduces the proportion of patients who fill a
postoperative opioid prescription.
Quantitative Structure - Property Relationship (QSPR) Analysis of Some Closed Neighborhood Degree Based Topological Indices for Octane Isomers
Authors: Ravi Vignesh , Desikan Kalyani
Published: January 2024

Topological descriptors defined on chemical structures are effective in
understanding the properties and activities of chemical molecules. Open
neighborhood degree sum based topological indices were studied recently
by Vignesh and Kalyani Desikan [29]. Vignesh et al. [30]
proposed the reciprocal versions of the indices mentioned in [29].
In this paper, the Quantitative Structure - Property Relationship (QSPR)
analysis of the proposed closed neighborhood versions of the indices
dened in [29] and [30] are analyzed. QSPR analysis is a
statistical procedure for examining molecular activity. QSPR analysis of
the proposed indices is performed for octane isomers to uncover their
predicting power. Curvilinear regression models are obtained and
analysed for the physico-chemical properties of the octane isomers in
terms of the proposed indices. We fit linear, quadratic and cubic models
for estimating the physico-chemical properties of octane isomers based
on the proposed indices. Among our proposed models, the cubic regression
model gave the best estimates for the physico-chemical properties of
octane isomers. Also, the sensitivity analysis of our proposed indices
is performed. Further, we compute the dened closed neighborhood
topological indices forHyaluronic Acid - Curcumin Conjugates (HA)n,
n>=1.
Right heart chambers longitudinal strain provides enhanced diagnosis and categorization in patients living with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Espinola-Zavaleta Nilda , Antonio-Villa Neftali , Guerra Enrique , Nanda Navin C. , Rudski Lawrence , Alvarez-Santana Ricardo , Camacho-Camacho Gyselle , Aranda-Fraustro Alberto , Cossio-Aranda Jorge , Zamora Karina , Oregel-Camacho Diego , Armenta-Moreno Javier , Berarducci Joaquin , Alexanderson-Rosas Erick
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND: Increased systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) could
lead to mechanical dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis of right heart
chambers. Echocardiographic strain analysis has not been adequately
studied in patients living with pulmonary hypertension (PH). METHODS AND
RESULTS: A cross-sectional cohort of patients with suspected PH and
echocardiographic strain evaluation was recruited. Cut-off values of
peak tricuspid regurgitation velocity with low probability of PH (≤ 2.8
m/s), intermediate probability (2.9-3.4 m/s, without other echo PH
signs) and high probability of PH (2.9-3.4 m/s with other echo PH signs
and >3.4 m/s) categories were studied by right ventricular
and right atrial strain analysis in a sample of 236 patients, 58
(56.9%) had low, 15 (14.7%) intermediate, and 29 (28.4%) high
probability of PH. We observed a negative association between right
ventricular free wall strain and atrial global strain with sPAP. As PH
severity increased, right atrial reservoir, conduit, and contraction
(booster) strain values decreased. Identified cut-off values of strain
parameters had an adequate ability to detect PH severity categories In
addition, post-mortem biopsies of right heart chambers from subjects
with known severe pulmonary hypertension were analyzed to quantify
myocardial fibrosis. Our sample of right heart biopsies (n=12)
demonstrated an association between increased sPAP before death and
right ventricular and right atrial fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Mechanical
dysfunction and fibrosis in right chambers is associated with increased
sPAP. Right ventricular and atrial strain could provide enhancement in
the diagnosis and categorization of subjects with suspected PH.
SARS-CoV-2 and the role of vertical transmission from infected pregnant women to their fetuses: systematic review
Authors: Plüddemann Annette , Spencer Elizabeth , Heneghan Carl , Brassey Jon , Onakpoya Igho , Rosca Elena , Evans David , Conly John , Jefferson Tom
Published: January 2024

Background Vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has been reported but
appears uncommon. Objectives This study systematically reviewed the
evidence on vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from pregnant women to
their neonates. Search strategy Literature searches in WHO Covid-19
Database, LitCovid, medRxiv, and Google Scholar for SARS-CoV-2 using
keywords and associated synonyms, search date to 20 December 2020; no
language restrictions. Selection criteria Studies of any design
reporting transmission. Data collection and analysis Two reviewers
independently assessed article eligibility and extracted data. Results
were reported descriptively; no meta-analyses were possible. Main
results 106 studies were included: 40 reviews and 66 primary studies,
most conducted in hospitals. 32 case reports were assessed as high risk
of bias, due to the study design; across the 34 remaining primary
studies, risk of bias was low to moderate. Sixteen case reports
described vertical transmission. In cohort studies and case series,
65/2391 (2.7%) neonates born to mothers with a COVID-19 diagnosis
tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 within 24 hours of birth; the proportion
of positive neonates ranged from 0% to 22%. Twenty studies reported no
vertical transmission. Maternal symptomatology and mode of delivery were
not correlated with vertical transmission. 7/25 studies of placental
tissue identified SARS-CoV-2; vertical transmission was infrequent. No
study reported the results of viral culture to detect SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusions These findings indicate that vertical transmission is
possible, but not frequent. Further high-quality studies are needed to
understand vertical transmission. Funding World Health Organization: WHO
registration No 2020/1077093.
Relevance of internal water status when assessing inter- and intraspecific variability in crown conductance regulation
Authors: Steger David , Peters Richard , Blume Theresa , Balanzategui Daniel , Hurley Alexander , Balting Daniel , Heinrich Ingo
Published: January 2024

Tree crown conductance (Gc) and its intraspecific variability play a
critical role in mitigating excess water loss in persistently changing
environmental conditions. Although Gc regulation is often assessed with
vapor pressure deficit (D) or soil water potential (soil), a more
direct internal water status measurement of continuous leaf water
potential (leaf) could be more appropriate in assessing intraspecific
variability. Here we apply a novel method to compare internal and
environmental drivers of Gc regulation by combining seven years of sap
flow and dendrometer data for Pinus sylvestris, Fagus sylvatica and
Quercus petraea growing in neighboring sites differentiated by their
soil water availability. When analyzing the Gc responses to D, soil and
dendrometer derived leaf, we identified contrasting Gc sensitivities
where the response to D and soil did not match leaf response. P.
sylvestris showed the strongest intraspecific variability with its Gc
response to leaf, with stricter Gc regulation at the drier site. F.
sylvatica showed a similar but less pronounced intraspecific
variability, while lowest Gc sensitivity and adjustment was found for Q.
petraea. The presented results highlight the relevance of internal water
status when assessing Gc responses to better understand water-use
strategies, as well as their plasticity to changing environments.
The domestication event affects sex-biased gene expression and evolution in duck
Authors: Gu Hongchang , Wang Liang , Lv Xueze , Yang Weifang , Zhang Zebin , Zhu Tao , Jia Yaxiong , Chen Yu , Qu Lujiang
Published: January 2024

Genes with sex-biased expression are thought to underlie sexually
dimorphic phenotypes and are therefore subject to different selection in
males and females. Many have proposed that sexual conflict leads to the
evolution of sex-biased expression, which resolves conflict and allows
males and females to reach separate phenotypic and fitness optima. The
strong selection pressures associated with domestication may cause
changes in population characteristics and mating systems, which in turn
can later the direction and strength of sex-specific selection. We used
to compare sex-biased expression and population genomic characteristics
in wild and domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos). We observed changes in
the intensity of sexual selection by measuring sexual size dimorphism
and provide an opportunity to identify the genomic divergence affected
by relaxed sexual selection. Population genetic analysis shows the
extent of sex-biased genes in both sexes is positively correlated with
the level of both dN/dS and nucleotide diversity. This observed pattern
may mainly be due to genetic constraints rather than sexual selection.
We also demonstrate a clear link between domestication and sex-biased
evolutionary rate in a comparative framework. Decreased polymorphism and
evolutionary rate in domestication breeds generally matched life-history
phenotypes known to experience artificial selection. Taken together, our
work suggests the important implications of domestication in sex-biased
evolution and the roles of artificial selection and sexual selection for
shaping the diversity and evolutionary rate of the genome.
Estimating the Repercussions of Covid-19 in Pregnancy and Neonatal Complications
Authors: Patnekar Sayali
Published: January 2024

The chief goal of this article was to do a literature review on a
sensitive topic that has affected many people worldwide. COVID-19 was
declared as a pandemic as it crossed all the boundaries. The effects of
COVID-19 infection were seen globally, affecting every individual of the
society. But here, the main intention was to study the impact of
COVID-19 illness in pregnancy since pregnancy is an immune-compromised
condition. The effects that had on pregnancy were preterm labor,
premature birth, pre-eclampsia, and miscarriages. The other objective
was to study the neonatal outcomes, which showed fetal respiratory
distress syndrome, Prolonged QT.
Anatomy in daily practice of the gynaecologist, essential or just window dressing: an explorative qualitative interview study
Authors: Koppes Dorothea , Vesseur Maud , Schepens-Franke Annelieke , Kruitwagen Roy , Notten Kim , Scheele Fedde
Published: January 2024

Objective: To determine the role and significance of anatomy in the
practice of obstetrics and gynaecology (O&G) and the relationship
between the importance of anatomy and the acquisition of anatomical
knowledge. Design: Explorative qualitative study. Setting: Belgium and
the Netherlands. Population: Twelve gynaecologists and gynaecology
trainees. Methods: Semi-structured Interviews including questions on the
importance of anatomy in the practice of O&G. Main Outcome: Themes to
understand the role of anatomy. Results: The role of anatomy in the
practice of O&G lies in three areas: 1. daily activities 2. for the
feeling of self-efficacy; 3. to gain a respected name as a doctor.
Motivation plays a central role to which extent anatomy knowledge is
actually obtained and seems to come quite late during postgraduate
training or even while being already a gynaecologist. Stimulating
factors for obtaining knowledge are responsibility, patient problems,
new techniques and supervisors who pay attention to anatomy. Barriers
are found in the feeling of insecurity and the lack of a reference.
Conclusions: Although anatomical knowledge plays an important role in
gynaecology practice, this importance is frequently not recognized until
late in postgraduate training. This may have a negative impact on
patient safety, as this late realisation can negatively affect knowledge
acquisition. Trainees require reasons for action early in their
curricula. Change in trainee motivations and innovations in teaching
methods may optimise the process of knowledge acquisition. The
overarching goal should be to educate doctors to work safely and with a
high degree of self-efficacy.
Cardiorespiratory symptoms in peripartum : think also about rare diagnosis !
Authors: KAISSI JABER EL , Jebbar Noureddine , Moqaddem Amine El , Hachimi Moulay Ahmed , laoutid jaouad
Published: January 2024

We report the case of a 23 years old primiparous woman that was admitted
for shortness of breath after seven days post partum. preliminary
diagnosis of pulmonary embolism was made. Patient condition worsens and
got admitted to ICU without improvement. point of care ultrasounds has
completely changed the outcome .
The Optimal Control and Optimization Algorithm of Partially Observable Stochastic Signals in Intelligent Control
Authors: Xiao Xiaonan
Published: January 2024

Stochastic optimization algorithm and random signal nonlinear optimal
filtering algorithm, as the two computing cores of high-performance
intelligent calculation in intelligent control, are typical
representatives of intelligent optimization algorithms in the rapidly
developing scientific research and engineering application technology
fields. In order to effectively improve the efficiency of information
filtering and optimal quantization modeling of a class of partially
observable random signals with massive characteristics in intelligent
control, this paper uses stochastic optimal control theory and methods
to discuss in depth the mathematical construction of this type of random
signal transmission system. Two optimal control mathematical models are
obtained via the optimal calculation and random optimization analysis of
the allowable coding function and decoding function under this type of
signal. It provides an idea mathematical processing method for improving
the intelligent control and information management efficiency of the
signal transmission system.
In situ sampling revealed that 2,4 DTBP contributes to continuous cropping obstacles in pepper
Authors: Wang Ning , Yang Hongyan , Wang Chunchun , Zhao Min
Published: January 2024

Continuous cropping (CC) obstacles resulting from the increase in
planting frequency restrict the sustainable development of the vegetable
industry. To understand the mechanisms causing continuous cropping
obstacles in-depth, we analyzed pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) rhizosphere
soils. Samples were collected using a new type of in situ sampler
composed of microporous ceramic tubes. After elution, the samples were
qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed via gas chromatography-mass
spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Then, the effects of the main possible allelochemicals on sensitive
plants were investigated. Fourteen chemicals, including
2,4-di-tert-butyl-phenol (2,4-DTBP), diisobutyl adipate (DIBA), dibutyl
phthalate (DBP) ，and limonene, were detected with GC-MS. The measured
concentration of 2,4-DTBP increased with pepper growth. The results
based on seed toxicity revealed that low-concentration (<50
mg·L-1) 2,4-DTBP improved lettuce seed germination rates and that
high-concentration (>300 mg·L-1) 2,4-DTBP had significant
(p<0.05) inhibitory effects. The results obtained from
sensitive cucumber plants showed that the average plant height in the
treatments containing 2,4-DTBP was lower (p<0.05). Significant
increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and reductions in the
photosynthetic rate (Pnet) were also detected (p<0.05). Leaf
transpiration (Tr), stomatal conductance (Gs) and root activity also
decreased significantly compared with those of the control. The
comparison results between the 2,4-DTBP treatment and the pepper CC
treatment showed that the cucumber was more significantly damaged in the
latter. Similar trends also occurred in pepper. Our results indicate
that the in situ sampler in this study can reflect the actual
concentrations of possible allelochemicals in rhizosphere soil. 2,4-DTBP
is one of the most important allelochemicals in pepper, and the
accumulation of 2,4-DTBP may be an important factor inducing continuous
cropping obstacles in pepper.
Long-term survival of a patient with metastatiс choroid plexus carcinoma, de novo germline TP53 mutated, after craniospinal proton irradiation
Authors: Valiakhmetova Andge , Yasko Liudmila , Zaytseva Margarita , Papusha Ludmila , Druy Alexander , Shishkina Ludmila , Novichkova Galina , Gorelyshev Sergey , Karachunskiy Alexander
Published: January 2024

Here we report a boy with disseminated choroid plexus carcinoma
diagnosed at an age of 2 years 9 months on the background of de novo
germline mutation in ТР53. The patient received 3 cycles of high-dose
methotrexate-based chemotherapy and 4 cycles of alternating
carboplatin/cyclophosphamide chemotherapy, followed by craniospinal
proton beam irradiation. To date, the patient lives with neither
progression of the disease nor other extracranial neoplasms for 6 years
from the diagnosis. This is the first successful experience of proton
irradiation therapy affording long-term survival in a child with
Li-Fraumeni syndrome-associated choroid plexus carcinoma.
Generalization of Hermite-Hadamard-Mercer]{Generalization of Hermite-Hadamard-Mercer and Trapezoid Formula Type Inequalities Involving Beta Function
Authors: Ali Muhammad Aamir , Zhang Zhiyue
Published: January 2024

In this work, we prove a generalized version of Hermite-Hadamard-Mercer
type inequalities using the Beta function. Moreover, we prove some new
trapezoidal type inequalities involving Beta functions for
differentiable convex functions. The main advantage of these
inequalities is that these can be converted into similar classical
integral inequalities, Riemann-Liouville fractional integral
inequalities and $k$-Riemann-Liouville fractional integral
inequalities. Finally, we give applications to special means of real
numbers for newly established inequalities.
Mexican validation of the QLQ-INFO25 instrument to measure satisfaction with the received information in patients with gastrointestinal carcinoma
Authors: Salas-Becerril Maricela , Luvián-Morales Julissa , Allende Silvia , Monroy Alejandra , Aiello-Crocifoglio Vincenzo , Carrillo Jose , Gálvez-Hernandez Lizette , Arrarás Juan , Ocaña Luis Oñate
Published: January 2024

Background: The information received by patients with cancer and the
consequent satisfaction are main components of the evaluation of quality
of care. We aim to validate the Mexican-Spanish version of the
QLQ-INFO25 in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Methods: Patients
included responded the QLQ-INFO25 instrument at a cancer center. The
usual psychometric tests were performed. Results: 70 female and 66 males
were included (mean age 56.2); 111 were colorectal and 25
gastroesophageal cancer. Questionnaire compliance rates were high and
the instrument was well accepted. No missing values were found.
Convergent item correlation was 0.008 to 0.768 and divergent item
correlation was from 0.014 to 0.662. Cronbach’s α coefficients of
multi-item scales were >0.7 (range, 0.655–0.905). Four
scales distinguished among esophagogastric or colorectal cancer, and
four scales were associated with overall survival. Conclusion: The
Mexican-Spanish version of the questionnaire is reliable and valid to be
used in clinical trials.
Cold exposure-induced asthma exacerbation through airway epithelial barrier disruption in mice
Authors: Zhou Tingyang , Liao Wenjing , Wang Xiaofen , Wang Yiyan , Yang Pingchang , Han Deming , Zhong Nanshan , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: January 2024

Background: Cold exposure can trigger asthma attacks. However,
the underlying mechanism is yet to be elucidated. We hypothesize that
low temperature reduces occludin expression and compromises airway
epithelial barrier function, which, in turn, results in asthma
exacerbation. Methods: We examined occludin expression in
Beas-2B cells exposed to either 29 °C or 37 °C. The following drugs were
administered prior to cold treatment: MG132 (a proteasome inhibitor),
cycloheximide (a protein synthesis inhibitor), HC-067047 plus GSK2193874
(transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 [TRPV4] antagonists), or
C4-ceramide (an SGK1 activator). siNedd4-2 was transfected into Beas-2B
cells to investigate the role of Nedd4-2 in mediating cold-induced
occludin instability. In animal experiments, we treated ovalbumin
(OVA)-induced asthmatic mice with either a thermoneutral temperature of
30 °C or repeated cold stress (10 °C, 6 h/day) for 2 weeks. Either
GSK2193874 or C4-ceramide was administered during the cold treatment.
After a final OVA challenge, pulmonary permeability, serum IgE levels,
and lung inflammation were assessed. Results: Treatment at 29
°C for 1−9 h significantly reduced Beas-2B cell occludin expression,
which was rescued upon treatment with MG132, HC-067047 plus GSK2193874,
C4-ceramide, or the Nedd4-2 knockdown. Notably, low temperatures
affected occludin stability through SGK1/Nedd4-2-dependent proteolysis.
In vivo analyses revealed that repeated cold exposure compromised
the airway epithelial barrier function and exacerbated lung inflammation
in mice, which was partially attenuated by the GSK2193874 or C4-ceramide
injection. Conclusions: We identified a new mechanism
underlying cold-induced asthma exacerbation that may involve
SGK1/Nedd4-2-mediated occludin proteolysis, resulting in epithelial
barrier dysfunction.
Neonatal magnesemia in preterm neonates unexposed to maternal MgSO4 administration and in neonates exposed for fetal neuroprotection or maternal eclampsia prevention: a retrospective cohort study, 2012-2015.
Authors: Dehaene Isabelle , Steenstraeten Tessa Van , Coen Kris De , Debuyser Stefanie , Decruyenaere Johan , Smets Koenraad , Roelens Kristien
Published: January 2024

Objective - To compare neonatal magnesemia in the first fifteen days of
neonatal life between three groups: a control group not exposed to
MgSO4, a neuroprotection group, and an eclampsia prevention group, and
to explore its’ associations with child outcomes. Design - Retrospective
single-centre cohort study. Setting - Tertiary care setting. Population
- Infants admitted at the neonatal intensive care unit born between 24
and 32 weeks’ gestation, regardless of etiology of preterm birth.
Methods - Linear mixed regression of neonatal magnesemia on exposure
group and day of life. Generalised estimating equations models of child
outcomes on neonatal magnesemia according to exposure group and day of
life. Main outcome measures - Neonatal magnesemia (mmol/l). Results -
Neonatal magnesemia is significantly higher in the preeclampsia group
compared to the control and neuroprotection group. On the day of birth,
this is irrespective of maternal magnesemia (preeclampsia vs control
group), and the maternal total dose or duration of MgSO4 administration
(preeclampsia vs neuroprotection group). No differences were found in
short-term composite outcome between the three groups. Conclusions - We
found mean differences in neonatal magnesemia between children not
exposed to MgSO4 antenatally, children exposed for fetal
neuroprotection, and children exposed for maternal eclampsia prevention.
A 4g loading and 1g/h maintenance dose, for fetal neuroprotection and
eclampsia prevention, appears to be safe on the short term for the
neonate. Funding - Isabelle Dehaene is funded by a scholarship of FWO
(1700520N) Keywords - neonatal magnesemia, neuroprotection,
preeclampsia, preterm birth
Preoperative Low-Molecular Weight Heparin Chemoprophylaxis in Head and Neck Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Patel Rusha , Stokes William , Roberts Christopher , Chung Jeffson , Fancy Tanya , Wen Sijin , Gao Si
Published: January 2024

Background: The safety of preoperative chemoprophylaxis for deep venous
thrombosis (DVT) prevention in patients undergoing head and neck
oncologic surgery with free tissue transfer (HNS-FTT) remains
undetermined. Methods: Retrospective chart review of HNS-FTT patients
receiving versus not receiving intraoperative subcutaneous enoxaparin
(Px-LMWH) was performed. Outcomes included estimated blood loss (EBL),
hematoma, flap compromise, DVT or pulmonary embolus (PE). Fisher’s exact
test and Wilcoxon Rank Sum test were performed between groups (p-value
< 0.05). Results: 44 of 134 patients (33%) received Px-LMWH.
There was no significant difference in EBL, hematoma, or flap
complications between groups. Patients without Px-LMWH had higher rates
of DVT and PE (p = 0.999, 0.09, respectively). Conclusion: Px-LMWH can
be used in major head and neck reconstructive surgery without increased
intraoperative blood loss or postoperative complications. Larger studies
will need to be done to determine the impact of Px-LMWH on DVT and PE in
this patient population.
Study on dry desulfurization performance of MnOx hydrothermally loaded halloysite desulfurizer
Authors: Zhang Lei , Shu Hao , Wang Yusu , Jia Yang
Published: January 2024

Coke quenching process has the characteristics of complex pollutant
composition and serious environmental pollution. So, the SO2 must be
desulfurized. In this paper, halloysite with natural nanotube structure
is selected as carrier, transition metal manganese is supported. The
activated halloysite is formed by chitosan gel microspheres, and the
experimental on sulfur dioxide treatment is carried. The results show
that co-processing of halloysite@chitosan desulfurizer significantly
improves the efficiency of dry desulfurization and reduces by-products.
The desulfurizer is loaded with manganese by hydrothermal metal, and its
oxides are mainly MnO2, Mn2O3, MnO. When hydrothermal temperature is 180
℃, metal loading ratio is 5%, reaction is 24 h, the desulfurization
rate is 79.47%. Compared with unloaded, it is as high as 3.05 times.
The halloysite modified by molten salt etching undergoes hydrothermal
metal loading, showing excellent ability. The desulfurization rate was
as high as 95.49%, and 87.98 mg of SO2 was removed cumulatively.
Does vitamin D cause atopy?
Authors: Zúñiga Valeria Andrea , Bazan-Perkins Blanca
Published: January 2024

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the intake of vitamin D (VD) has
increased. Vitamin D has multiple regulatory effects in the human body,
including immunological. Evidence accentuates the generation of a
pro-tolerogenic T helper (Th) 2 cell state with VD, suppressing a Th1
inflammatory response. Th2 cell polarization is characteristic of atopy.
However, VD promotes a balanced state through the action of regulatory T
cells, controlling cytokines, both pro-inflammatory and
anti-inflammatory, and by reducing B cell proliferation and
differentiation, thus preventing the development of atopy.