bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between weight change and 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk among U.S. older adults: data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2018
Authors: Peng yuxuan , Li Hongzheng , Lu Jieming , Liao Feifei , Yang Wenwen , Tan Ling , Lu Aimei , Wei Yue , Long Linzi , Qu Hua , Fu Changgeng
Published: November 2022

BackgroundIt remains controversial regarding the association between weight change and cardiovascular disease risk in older adults (aged ≥60 years). This study aimed to evaluate the association between weight change and 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk events in older adults.MethodsThis cohort study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Older adults aged 60-79 years who were free of self-reported ASCVD at the time of the NHANES interview were included. Data were collected from January 1999 to December 2018 and analyzed in March 2022. We focused on the associations between weight change and 10-year risk of ASCVD events with the percentage change in weight during short-term(1 year) and long-term (10 years), which categorized as moderate to high weight loss (≥10%), small weight loss (5.1-9.9%), stable weight (±5%), small weight gain (5.1-9.9%) and moderate to high weight gain (≥10%).ResultsThe number of participants was 2,322 (mean age 67.90 years; 41.65% female) for the long-term interval (10 years) in our analysis, and 2543 for the short-term interval (1 years). We only observed an inverse association between long-term weight loss and predicted 10-year ASCVD risk (loss≥10%: β=2.81, 95%CI=1.46, 4.16; loss 5.1%~9.9%: β=2.75, 95% CI=1.24, 4.26), but all intervals of weight gain ≥5% were not significant associated with higher risk than stable weight. However, in the subgroup analyses, the association between long-term weight loss and 10-year ASCVD risk was not significant in old-old (aged 75-79), obesity (BMI≥30 kg/m2), intentional weight loss, moderate physical activity, smokers, and diabetics.ConclusionsOlder adults (aged 60-79 years) with weight loss >5% over the past 10 years have excess predicted 10-year ASCVD risk. Our study supports the benefits of stable weight in promoting cardiovascular health in the elderly.
Using routine CT scans for the detection of osteoporosis and exploring factors that affect DXA results
Authors: Cao Chaozhi , Huang Xuanwu , Xiao Longyi , Deng Rui , Wen Huilong , Li Xiwen , Chen Yanjun , Li Yiqun
Published: November 2022

Background
Osteoporosis is prevalent among older adults but is an underdiagnosed condition. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and computed tomography (CT) attenuation based on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as the reference standard and to predict the CT attenuation threshold for osteoporosis.
Methods
The cohort included 430 subjects (276 women and 154 men; mean age: 67.6 years) whose general information, CT attenuation, DXA, aortic calcification, and vertebral degeneration scores were collected. The relationship between DXA scores and aortic calcification and vertebral degeneration scores was analyzed by orderly logistic regression. The prediction of CT attenuation for osteoporosis was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.
Results
There was no significant difference in CT attenuation on the vertebral coronal, sagittal, or axial plane (p > 0.05). Obesity, paravertebral osteophytes, endplate sclerosis, and aortic calcification could impact the outcomes of DXA (p < 0.05). The sensitivity for distinguishing osteoporosis was at least 90% when the CT attenuation threshold was 120 HU; when the CT attenuation threshold was 81 HU, the specificity for distinguishing osteoporosis was at least 90%. When the threshold was 98 HU, the Youden index was the largest, with a specificity of 80.0% and a sensitivity of 82.3%.
Conclusions
CT attenuation of the lumbar spine can be used to identify patients with osteoporosis while reducing the influence of the bony structure around the vertebral body on the assessment of BMD.
Effect of Immersive Virtual Reality and Audiovisual Treatment for Gait Disorder in Parkinson's Disease (IVRTFPD study ) : A Prospective Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Ye Qinyong , Chen Lina , Cai Guoen , Jiang Rifeng , Wang Yingqing , Chen Zhiting , Zeng Yuqi , Chen Ying , Chen Xiaochun
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVE
Immersive Virtual Reality Treatment for Parkinson's Disease (IVRTFPD study ) aims to compare the effect of immersive virtual reality training(VR) and audiovisual training (AV) for gait disorder in Parkinson's disease.
METHODS
Forty-four PD patients with gait disorder were enrolled and randomly divided into an immersive virtual reality (VR) group (n = 22), Audiovisual Treatment (AV) group (n = 22). The primary efficacy outcome measure was the change from baseline (Pre) to 6 weeks (Post 6w) and 14 weeks (Post 14w) visit in the Timed Up and Go test (TUGT). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was assessed in baseline (Pre) and Post 14w visits.
RESULTS
The TUGT was reduced by 3.16s (95% CI, -4.18 to -2.13, P < 0.001) at 6 weeks and 2.36s (95% CI, -3.77 to -0.96, P < 0.001) at 14 weeks from baseline in VR group. The between-group difference (VR vs. AV) in the TUGT was − 2.64s (95% CI, -4.84 to -0.45; P = 0.019) at 6 weeks and − 2.44s (95% CI, -4.67 to -0.21; P = 0.013) at 14 weeks. The quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) value of the right internal Globus pallidus, right Pulvinar, and right Substantia nigra decreased, and the FA value of the left Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus, right Uncinate Fasciculus increased in the VR group compared with the Pre-test.
CONCLUSIONS
This study confirmed that the virtual reality and audiovisual training improved motor symptoms of PD patients, and the efficacy persisted even longer in the VR group. It may be related to improved iron metabolism and reduced iron deposition.
Hospital and post-discharge mortality in COVID-19 patients with a preexisting cancer diagnosis in Iran
Authors: Seyyedsalehi Monireh Sadat , Rahmati Marveh , Ghalehtaki Reza , Nahvijou Azin , Eslami Bita , Shaka Zoha , Allameh Seyed Farshad , Zendehdel Kazem
Published: November 2022

Background: Data on COVID-19 outcomes in cancer patients from low- and middle-income countries is limited. We conducted a large study about the mortality rate of COVID-19 in cancer patients in Iran.
Methods: We obtained clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 in cancer and non-cancer patients. Based on logistic regression models, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for hospital death and 60-day mortality of cancer patients were estimated.
Results: The cancer patients had higher ICU admission (35.8% vs. 26.6%) and intubation (25.4 vs. 11.6%) than non-cancer patients. Hospital mortality was higher in cancer patients (37.2%) than in non-cancer patients (15.2%) (OR = 4.56, 95% CI 3.51-5.93). Among cancer patients, mortality rates of the lung (OR = 1.57) and colorectal (OR = 1.50) cancers were higher than other cancer patients, albeit these associations were not statistically significant. The risk of 60-day mortality was significantly higher in lung cancer (OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.04-2.93). The risk of COVID-19 death was higher in cancer patients who had an oxygen saturation less than 85% (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.20 -2.69), were on active treatment (OR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.43-2.6), or had metastasis (OR = 3.32, 95% 2.30-4.79) during the COVID-19 infection.
Conclusion: COVID-19 mortality was higher in cancer patients, especially with active disease and metastatic. Among others, lung cancer patients experience the worst prognosis from COVID-19 infection. The excess risk of death after discharge from the hospital suggests providing follow-up care for cancer patients after discharge from a COVID-19 hospitalization.
Is the absolute lymphocyte count a biomarker for neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis needs surgical consultation?
Authors: Zhong# Weitao , Chen# Jiale , He Qiuming , He Juan , Zou Pengjian , Tian Yan , Ma Zuyi , Zhong Wei
Published: November 2022

Background: Previous studies reported contradicting results about the association between the absolute lymphocyte count and necrotizing enterocolitis. The aim of this study was to explore whether the absolute lymphocyte count of (ALC) can be a biomarker for neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis needs surgical consultation.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed perinatal data, clinical features before NEC onset (T0), laboratory values at T0 and at the time within the 24h after NEC onset(T1) from neonates with confirmed NEC who were admitted to Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center from January 2016 to June 2021. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate predictive factors of surgical NEC. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to evaluate cutoffs and predictive values.
Results: Overall, 224 neonates with NEC were identified, including 80 cases (35.7%) underwent surgical intervention (surgical NEC) and 144 cases (64.3%) were managed with conservative treatment (medical NEC). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that male gender [p value, adjusted odds ratio [95%CI]; 0.002, 3.36(1.53-7.35)], low ALC on T1[(<0.001, 0.37(0.25-0.55)] were identified as independent risk factors for surgical NEC. The area under curve (AUC) of ALC on T1 was 0.814 (95% CI 0.757~0.871). The optimal cut-off value was 2.10*109/L with 80% sensitivity and 74% specificity.
Conclusion: In neonates with NEC, low ALC may indicate a higher probability of needing surgical intervention. Timey surgical consultation may assist in the early diagnosis of the surgical NEC and avoid missing the optimal timing of surgery.
Geometrically nonlinear vibration of The Vierendeel Sandwich Plate
Authors: Dingyuan Liu , Kejian Ma , Yaqin Lu , Kaicong Kuang
Published: November 2022

The fourth-order geometrically nonlinear partial differential equations of motion for the Vierendeel Sandwich Plate with five generalized displacements are established considering the second-order nonlinear variables in the displacement components of the Green strain tensor. The plate is composed of an upper surface plate, inferior rib, superior rib, and short column. Considering the isotropy of the upper surface plate and the equivalent plate material of the inferior rib and superior rib, the transverse shear stress is not considered. The short column is equivalent to a transversely isotropic sandwich layer of material, and only its transverse shear stress is considered. The geometric nonlinear vibration equations of the Vierendeel Sandwich Plate are obtained by functional variation. Then, the geometric nonlinear vibration solution expressed by the elliptic function is obtained by using Galerkin's method, and the curves of the relationship between the ratio of the linear period to the nonlinear period and the amplitude under different side length ratios are obtained. The numerical simulation results of nonlinear equations show that with the superposition of modes, there are periodic, multi-periodic, and chaotic responses, indicating that these motions occur alternately. The developed theory is an extension of the plate vibration theory.
Heterogeneously catalyzed palm biodiesel production in intensified fruit blender
Authors: Wongjaikham Wijittra , Kamjam Manita , Wongsawaeng Doonyapong , Ngaosuwan Kanokwan , Kiatkittipong Worapon , Hosemann Peter , Assabumrungrat Suttichai
Published: November 2022

This research investigated palm biodiesel production via solid base-catalyzed transesterification in an intensified kitchen fruit blender. Studied parameters included methanol to palm oil molar ratio, CaO catalyst loading, reaction temperature and reaction volume. Characteristics of CaO catalyst were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy techniques. An optimal condition was achieved with 15:1 of methanol to palm oil molar ratio, 5 wt.% of CaO dosage, 60oC of reaction temperature and 1,000 mL of reaction volume, obtaining the highest FAME production of 97.58% and yield efficiency of 1.56×10-3 g/J. Crystal structure of catalyst showed structural change after calcination while FT-IR illustrated alteration of various functional groups through reusability experiment demonstrating exceptional activity stability. Properties of biodiesel produced conformed to international standards. Use of CaO catalyst in biodiesel production provides positive effect on reuse, reduces wastewater from washing process, lowers production cost and is environmentally responsible.
Investigation of Sleep and Awake Bruxism Habit Experienced by People Who Quarantined Different Places During the COVID-19 Pandemic Running title: Investigation of Sleep and Awake Bruxism During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Genc Gizem B Celebioglu , Orhan Kaan
Published: November 2022

Introduction:
This study aimed to investigate sleep and awake bruxism habit experienced by people who quarantined different places during the COVID-19 pandemic in the TRNC.
Material and Methods
A 25-question self-reported questionnaire was sent to the patients' mobile phones to measure their demographic information, the level of bruxism habits which they experienced before and during their quarantine period while sleeping and awake, and asked to answer. The answers were evaluated statistically by percentage and chi-square test.
Results
241 people participated in our research. During the quarantine period, there was an increase in awake bruxism and a slight decrease in sleep bruxism. While the feelings worried, scared, panic and hopelessness felt by the participants in the first days of the quarantine decreased in the last days of the quarantine but calm was increased regardless of the place and length of stay in the quarantine. Teeth clenching, teeth grinding and earache were mostly seen in those who stayed in dormitory quarantine.
Conclusion
People's anxiety is increasing in the COVID-19 pandemic and there is a positive correlation between anxiety and both sleep and awake bruxism. Dentists should pay more attention to the signs of bruxism during the examination, especially from people who say that they are in quarantine during the anamnesis. Although the reason for the patient's visit to the doctor may seem like just a simple toothache, the underlying factors such as clenching should not be forgotten with a holistic approach and awareness should be created for the patient.
Activation of IP10/CXCR3 signaling with highly coincidental with PrPSc deposit in the brains of scrapie infected mice
Authors: chen jia , Chen Cao , Hu Chao , Yang Wei , Wang Lin , Chen Dong-Dong , Wu Yue-Zhang , Shi Qi , Dong Xiao-Ping
Published: November 2022

Activation of chemokine IP10, also named as CXCL10, and its receptor CXCR3 in CNS is described in some neurodegenerative diseases. Our previous study has also demonstrated an increased brain IP10 levels in several scrapie infected rodent models. However, the detailed alteration of IP10/CXCR3 signaling in CNS during prion infection remains unsettled. Here, we found the increased IP10 signals in the brains of scrapie infected mice mainly localized in the neurons using various methodologies. The levels of CXCR3 were markedly increased in brains of the scrapie infected mice and in the prion infected cell line SMB-S15. The increased CXCR3 is mainly distributed in neurons and activated microglia. Obviously morphological colocalizations of PrPC/PrPScwith IP10 and CXCR3 in the brains of scrapie infected mice were observed in the assays of immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence. Additionally, IHC analysis with whole brain sections demonstrated that the increased IP10 and CXCR3 accumulations occurred in the brain regions with more PrPScdeposits. Co-immunoprecipitation and biomolecular interaction assays identified the evidence for the molecular interactions of PrP with IP10 and CXCR3. Compared to the normal partner cell line SMB-PS, a larger amount of IP10 accumulated inside prion infected SMB-S15 cells. Suppression of prion replication in SMB-S15 cells by added resveratrol reverted the pattern of accumulation and secretion of cellular IP10 to that observed in SMB-PS cells. Our data here demonstrate an activation of IP10/CXCR3 signaling in prion-infected brain tissues that coincide with deposited PrPSc. Modulation of brain IP10/CXCR3 signaling is potential therapeutic target for reducing the progression of prion diseases.
Can social media reach isolated domestic abuse victims? Evidence from a randomized control trial during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Authors: Grogger Jeffrey , Ivandić Ria , Kirchmaier Tom
Published: November 2022

Research Questions
Can social media reach isolated domestic abuse victims? Secondly, does providing victims with more information and a safer means of contacting police change their likelihood of domestic abuse reporting?
Data
This research is based on high frequency and confidential administrative data on the population of domestic abuse calls during the period of the Covid-19 pandemic but also the preceding years from two police forces – the Thames Valley Police (TVP) and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS).
Methods
To answer the research questions, we ran a randomized control trial (RCT) using a novel social media campaign promoting a method of reporting through Facebook and Instagram. We randomised the treatment across geographic areas in one police force and across individuals in another police force.
Findings
We found that while social media is an effective tool for engaging on domestic abuse topics, particularly with younger individuals, our intention-to-treat estimates between the treatment and control areas and individuals did not show any significant difference in domestic abuse reporting. One of the reasons to explain this finding was the geographically imprecise social media targeting features on Facebook.
Conclusions
Our research contributes to the scarce experimental literature on how to increase domestic abuse reporting among victims with, to the best of our knowledge, the first randomised test of the effects of a social media campaign on engagement and reporting. As police forces across the United Kingdom, but also worldwide, start using social media more to engage with the citizens they serve, these results provide interesting and valuable implications for their effectiveness and the role of technology in the future policing.
Performance improvement of photothermal membrane distillation with a Ti/MgF2 photoabsorber enhanced robustness by plasma pretreatments
Authors: Song Kyung Guen , Cho Jinsoo , Wang Dasom , Choi Jihyeok , Mo Jeongeun , Choi Won Jun , Baik Jung Min , Jang Ho Won , Jung Jinho
Published: November 2022

To meet the increasing global freshwater demand, desalination processes are a promising alternative technology for future water supply. Solar membrane distillation is a forward-looking desalination process, and it can minimize the use of electrical energy. We developed a photothermal membrane with high thermal performance and durability to reduce the energy loss caused by feed circulation for solar heating and reduce the environmental pollution caused by photothermal materials in the solar desalination process. The developed Ti/MgF2 membrane showed an absorbance of 83.3% of AM 1.5G at wavelengths of 280-2500 nm. The Ti/MgF2 membrane pretreated with Ar plasma exhibited a maximum temperature of 62.8°C and a temperature increase of approximately 40.5% compared to the unpretreated photothermal membrane under the 1 sun condition. Using the developed membrane, the water flux was improved by up to 26.9%, the performance ratio (PR) by 35.4%, and the thermal efficiency by 50.8% under the 1 sun condition. The produced permeate maintained high drinkability quality with a salt rejection rate of 99.9% or more. The developed photothermal membrane shows potential for application to membrane distillation (MD) using solar heat.
Higher Education Students’ Propensity to Embrace and Use New Technology Based Services: An Empirical Study
Authors: Jore Shubhangi , Asthana Nidhi
Published: November 2022

Understanding and analysing the consumers with respect to their adoptability of technology – based services, the time and process through which these services are accepted and practiced is of much importance. There is need to understand all the drives and insights that may influence customers’ technology readiness. As the requirements of technology ready customers will ultimately affect the strategies that are implemented to develop new services. What people are thinking about new technology, their beliefs about the same and advancement in the technology is need of the hour. It has become very important to analyse people’s belief about technology so that further their predispositions to use it and prediction of their perception can be identified and analysed. In recent years the advancement in the Indian technology sector in terms of smartphones and laptops is seeing tremendous competitiveness, growth, efficiency, profitability and soundness. By comparing the technology readiness of some of the widely used electronic gadgets such as smartphones and laptops, we can find out how fast people are accepting new technology. The purpose of this paper is to test the validity of Technology Readiness Index (TRI) (Parasuraman, 2000) with respect to management students in Indore city. Present study is an attempt to identify the factors that affect adoption of technology-based services amongst higher education students. To explore whether there is any significant classification of higher education students with respected to the factors affecting adoption of technology-based services. The study also aims at exploring how demographics variables may help to explain adoption and use of technology-based products and services. A sample of size 200 respondents was collected though non- probabilistic convenient sampling using the standard scale on Technology Readiness Index (Parasuraman, 2000). Multivariate data analysis techniques were applied to analyse the data. The results support the TRI validity in Indore city. The study also suggests that demographic variables play an important role in predicting pro-technological behaviour in the city. This will enable both businesses and government to develop strategies for new services based on advanced technology.
Noble gas isotopic characteristics in Paleo-Salt Lakes brine of the western Qaidam Basin
Authors: Li Hongpu , Pan Tong , Jin Fang , Chen Jinniu , Guo Ruirui , Tong Yongjun
Published: November 2022

The brine in paleo-salt lakes in the Qaidam Basin is a very important resource of potassium and lithium salts. There has been little research on the formation mechanism of the brine according to noble gases and their isotopic characteristics, let alone research on the formation age of the brine. For this reason, this paper studies the formation mechanism and formation age of the brine in paleo-salt lakes in the Qaidam Basin according to the test data of the samples of noble gas elements and their isotopes collected in the latest deep boreholes in the Qaidam Basin. In the study area, the He content in the brine ranges from 12.2×10-6 to 1,326.9×10-6, the Ne content from 1.253×10-6 to 19.1×10-6, and the Ar content from 3,046.5×10-6 to 5,023.1×10-6; the ratio of 3He/4He ranges from 2.00 ×10-8 to 2.30×10-7, R/Ra from 0.01 to 0.16Ra, 20Ne/22Ne from 9.2 to 10.6, 21Ne/22Ne from 0.024 to 0.032, and 40Ar/36Ar from 298.7 to 352. In combination with the correlations between 20Ne/22Ne and 21Ne/22Ne, and 3He/4He and 40Ar/36Ar, and in accordance with the special physical properties of noble gases He, Ne, and Ar (such as lower solubility in groundwater and higher solubility with the increase of ion radius), the following can be inferred: The brine in paleo-salt lakes in the Qaidam Basin has two sources: deep crust and atmospheric precipitation; the reservoirs of the brine in paleo-salt lakes in the Qaidam Basin are Quaternary - Paleogene strata; the brine was formed from Triassic to Ordovician, earlier than the reservoir age according to the calculation of 3He/4He in the brine based on the age accumulation effect.
Interventions to Improve Provider Competence in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): A Scoping Review
Authors: Salloum Caitlin , Feil Cameron , Ramadan Marwa , Uribe Manuela Villar
Published: November 2022

Background: Despite a global movement to strengthen primary health care systems, quality of care often remains poor across low-and-middle-income countries. A key determinant for quality of care is provider competence. This scoping review specifically aims to build on the Health Care Provider Performance Review (HCPPR), a systematic review of interventions to improve health care performance in low-and-middle-income countries, by identifying the approaches, effect, and characteristics of successful provider competence interventions at the PHC level.
Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were used to search for peer-reviewed publications and grey literature that reported evidence of interventions to improve provider competence in PHC settings in LMICs.
Results: A total of 37 articles met the inclusion criteria. Three themes were identified: education and training, supervision and mentorship, and protocols and tools. Most studies included in the review took place in Sub-Saharan Africa (60 %) and in lower-middle income countries (57 %). Among the 37 articles, 27 (73 %) utilized an education and training intervention, 18 (48 %) utilized a supervision and mentoring intervention, and 15 (41 %) utilized a protocol and tool intervention. A total of 19 (51%) interventions were multicomponent, containing more than one intervention theme. Most interventions reported positive outcomes, although few presented evidence on the long-term impacts of the interventions. Among the three themes, education and training interventions reported more successful interventions compared to supervision and mentoring or protocol and tool-based interventions. Multicomponent interventions reported the most favorable outcomes compared to independent interventions.
Conclusion: Provider competence interventions, when appropriately planned, implemented, and sustained are effective for improving the skills, knowledge, and competence of providers in LMICs. When feasible, interventions that combine multiple approaches consistently show to have the greatest short- and long-term effects on the competence of providers. However, despite the available research, there is still a lack of evidence on adapting, implementing, and sustaining interventions to improve provider competence across contexts.
JAG-1/Notch signaling axis contributes to the maintenance of bone cancer pain in female rats via spinal astrocyte-neuron crosstalk
Authors: 伏 杰 , Zhao Baoxia , Ni Huadong , Xu Longsheng , Luo Ge , He Qiuli , Xu Miao , Xu Chengfei , Wang Yahui , Ni Chaobo , Kong Min , Shou Qiyang , Yao Ming
Published: November 2022

Background
Recent studies have shown that interactions between astrocytes and neurons in the spinal cord are involved in chronic pain. In this study, we investigated whether the Jagged-1(JAG-1) /Notch signaling pathway regulates bone cancer pain (BCP) via the astrocyte-neuron mechanism.
Methods
Walker256 breast cancer cells were injected into the tibia bone marrow of the female rat to establish a stable BCP rat model. The molecular mechanism of hyperalgesia mediated by the JAG-1/Notch signal pathway was determined by western blotting, immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, dual-luciferase reporter gene, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Von-Frey test, catwalk gait analysis, open field test, and conditioned place aversion test were used to study changes in pain behavior in rats. In addition, the effect of the JAG-1/Notch signal pathway on neuronal excitability was also investigated.
Results
The intramedullary injection of Walker256 breast cancer cells induces persistent hyperalgesia and increased the expression of JAG-1, Notch intracellular domain (NICD), and c-Fos in the spinal cord. The expression of JAG-1 was exclusively observed in astrocytes and Notch-1 was expressed only in neuronal cells. Astrocyte activation increased JAG-1 expression, and knockdown of JAG-1 in the spinal cord reduced BCP. The supplementation of exogenous JAG-1 to the spinal cord induced BCP-like behavior and promoted expression of c-Fos and hairy and enhancer of split homolog-1 (Hes-1) in the spinal cord of the naïve rats. These effects were reversed when the rats were administered intrathecal injections of DAPT, an inhibitor of notch signaling. The intrathecal injection of DAPT reduced BCP and inhibited Hes-1 and c-Fos expression in the spinal cord. Furthermore, our results showed that JAG-1 regulated neural excitability via the Notch signaling pathway. JAG-1 upregulated Hes-1 expression by inducing the recruitment of NICD to the RBP-J/CSL binding site located within the Hes-1 promoter sequence. Finally, the intrathecal injection of c-Fos-ASO and administration of sh-Hes-1 to the spinal dorsal horn also alleviated BCP.
Conclusion
JAG-1/Notch signaling axis mediated interaction of astrocyte-neuron contributes to the maintenance of bone cancer-induced pain hypersensitivity. The inhibition of the crosstalk between astrocytic JAG-1 and neuronal Notch-1 may serve as a potential strategy for the treatment of BCP.
Osteocytes exposed to titanium particles inhibit osteoblastic cell differentiation via connexin 43/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Chai Hao , Huang Qun , Jiao Zixue , Wang Shendong , Sun Chunguang , Geng De Chun , Xu Wei
Published: November 2022

Background Periprosthetic osteolysis (PPO) induced by wear particles is the most severe complication of total joint replacement, however, the mechanism of PPO remains unknown. Previous studies have shown that osteocytes play an important role in wear particle-induced osteolysis. In this study, we investigated the effects of connexin 43 (Cx43) on the regulation of osteocyte to osteoblast differentiation. Methods In vivo, a murine model of calvarial osteolysis induced by titanium (Ti) nanoparticles was established. The osteolysis characteristic and osteogenesis markers in the osteocyte-selective deficiency of Cx43 (cKO) mice and wild-type (WT) mice were observed. In vitro, osteocytic cell line MLO-Y4 was treated with Ti nanoparticles. β-catenin were detected when Cx43 of MLO-Y4 cell was silenced or overexpressed. Co-culture of MLO-Y4 cells with MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells was used to observe the effects of Ti-treated osteocyte on osteoblast differentiation. Co-immunoprecipitation detection of Cx43 and β-catenin binding in MLO-Y4 cells and MC3T3-E1 cells. Results In vivo, the calvarial osteolysis induced by Ti particles was partially attenuated in the cKO mice. The expression of β-catenin, Runx2, osterix, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and osteocalcin (OCN) increased significantly in the femurs of cKO mice. In vitro. Ti particles decreased β-catenin expression and increased Cx43 expression. Silencing of Cx43 increased the β-catenin expression in MLO-Y4 cells and over-expressed Cx43 decreased the β-catenin expression. In the co-culture model, as a result of Cx43 silencing in the MLO-Y4 cells, the MC3T3-E1 cells displayed decreased Cx43 expression, increased β-catenin expression, activation of Runx2, and promotion of osteoblastic differentiation. Cx43 silencing in MLO-Y4 cells attenuated the inhibitory effects of the Ti treatment of MLO-Y4 cells on the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. Finally, Cx43 expression was found to be negatively correlated to the activity of the Wnt signaling pathway through binding of β-catenin to the nucleus. Conclusion In conclusion, the results of our study suggest that Ti nanoparticles increased Cx43 expression in osteocytes and osteocytes may participate in the regulation of osteoblast function via the Cx43/β-catenin pathway during periprosthetic osteolysis.
“Isolation and Characterization of Phosphofungi – Aspergillus niger from Rhizosphere Soil to supplement Phospho-biofertilizer”
Authors: V Jyothi , Basaiah Thippeswamy
Published: November 2022

In the present study, the phosphate-solubilizing fungus was isolated and identified as Aspergillus niger. Its 18S rRNA gene sequence was deposited at GenBank, NCBI (MN904862). For the study of the Phosphate solubilization capacity of the fungus, different rhizosphere soil samples were collected from medicinal plants. 40 fungal colonies were isolated after serial dilution and one fungal colony with high phosphate solubilization zone was selected and further tested. The fungus showed good results in different phosphate solubilization tests, SI (3.91), SE (290), and pH of the culture filtrate after the growth of the fungus decreased from 6.89 to 3.13 due to the production of organic acids. The colour changed from blue to yellow on the agar plate and red to yellow in the broth due to the acidic condition of the media during the growth of the fungus. Titrable acidity was measured at 32.8g/L and 420µg of P was estimated in culture broth by the Vanadomolybdate method. The fungus showed a positive result for siderophore production. 20µg of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) was produced by the fungus and was estimated by the Salkowaski reagent method using a standard calibration curve. Due to the phosphate solubilization capacity and production of plant growth promoters of A. niger, can be recommended as a Phosphate solubilizer in an agricultural field.
A prediction method for the uniaxial compressive strength of the soil-rock mixture considering the effect of the particle size
Authors: Zhang Zhenping , Fu Xiaodong , Yuan Wei , Zhou Yongqiang , Huang Juehao , Sheng Qian , Chai Shaobo
Published: November 2022

The reasonable prediction of mechanical parameters of the soil-rock mixture (S-RM) is crucial to build an engineering structure on the deposit slope. As a typical multiphase geomaterial, the emergence of rock blocks of various sizes destroys the integrity of the soil matrix and results in the complex and varied mechanical properties because of its interaction with the soil matrix. Because of the size effect, which is caused by the size restriction of traditional test apparatus, it is more challenging to measure the precise mechanical parameters of S-RM. This study proposed an approach to predicting the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of S-RM taking the particle size effect into account. The impact of the particle size on the mechanical behaviors of S-RM under various volumetric rock block proportion (VBP) conditions was discussed using the particle flow discrete element method from both a macroscopic and mesoscopic view. The parameter “Am” was used to describe the decreasing rate of UCS with various VBPs, and a quantitative description to predict the parameter “Am” of S-RM with various maximum particle sizes was proposed. A method to predict the UCS value of S-RM with various VBPs was conducted while taking the influence of size effect into account using the parameter “Am” and the UCS of the soil matrix.
Collagen III deposition and basement membrane integrity alterations: possible predictive markers in metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Pinheiro Laís Capelasso Lucas , Pupim Andreia Carla Eugenio , Tomeleri Marilia Folini , Pereira Érica Romão , Francelino Amanda Letícia , Araújo Eduardo José Almeida , Guembarovski Alda Fiorina Maria Losi , Fuganti Paulo Emilio , Colus Ilce Mara de Syllos , Miqueloto Carlos Alberto , Guembarovski Roberta Losi
Published: November 2022

Purpose
Metastasis represents the major cause of deaths in cancer patients, and the tumor surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) passes through changes in its organization during the evolution of this process. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to quantify the deposition of proteins that constitute the ECM, namely total collagen, collagen I (Col I) and collagen III (Col III) in samples from patients with metastatic (mPCa) and non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa), in addition of evaluating the basement membrane integrity.
Methods
Tissue samples from 60 patients were divided into three groups according to parameters ISUP grade, TNM staging and PSA concentration: better prognosis (n = 20), worse prognosis (n = 23) and metastatic (n = 17). To quantify collagen, the Picrosirius Red technique was used with further analysis under a polarization microscope, and to basement membrane analysis the Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) technique was employed, where the coloring was classified in G1, G2 and G3.
Results
It was observed that the Col I/ Col III ratio was higher in the metastatic group in relation to better prognosis (p = 0.012) and worse prognosis (p = 0.018) groups. About the basement integrity, it was observed that its constitution in the malignant tumor tissue differed from the adjacent non-tumor tissue (p = 0.000). Also, the worsening in the tumor tissue integrity was positively correlated with worse prognosis parameters (advanced ISUP grade, extraprostatic extension and perineural invasion).
Conclusion
Our study indicates that the absence of Col III can constitute a marker for potential metastatic tumors. The basement membrane integrity also seems to be an indicator of poor prognosis in malignant prostatic tumors.
Carbon Sink Project: Regenerative Radial Soil System for Livestock in the Native Savanna of Vichada, Colombia
Authors: Gonzalez Doris L. , Trujillo-González Juan Manuel , Gonzalez Fabio A. , Gelvez-Pinzon Kelly Mayerly
Published: November 2022

One option to remove greenhouse gases (GHGs) from the atmosphere is to implement initiatives that use natural carbon sinks, including oceans, plants, forests, and soil. The global soil carbon sequestration potential is estimated to be 4–5 GtCO2/year, assuming best management practices are implemented (Paustain, 2019). However, conventional farming practices associated with extensive livestock grazing in tropical areas worsen global climate change by releasing GHG and promoting soil desertification due to erosion, compaction of soil, and loss of organic matter. This study presents a unique Soil-Based carbon sequestration project that integrates livestock, soil improvement, forestation, carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration, methane (CH4) utilization, and nitrous oxide (N2O) reduction. It presents a combination of technologies that originates the rational rotational regenerative (RRR) grazing system and how this approach adapts cattle farming activities to climate change to offset GHG emissions. It includes biogas and biofertilizer production from waste to reduce the use of chemical fertilizer. The produced biogas would replace the community's firewood cooking method commonly used. This system closes the loop for an entirely circular economy, achieving proper climate-smart livestock production as livestock's importance is undisputable for food security. Results show that the proposed radial module is a very efficient carbon sink system able to capture twice the amount of equivalent emissions that cattle emit. It also organically improves the quality of the soils and produces 500 tons of hummus, 1,666 tons of organic fertilizer, and 71,400 m3 of biogas per year for bioenergy utilization. The project also looks to safeguard forests, protect biodiversity by forming ecological corridors, and optimize water management. This natural climate solution design looks to deliver environmental, biodiversity, and social benefits in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Enamel defects among Syrian schoolchildren in Damascus city: A cross-sectional epidemiological survey
Authors: Jeghami Rania Al , Dashash Mayssoon
Published: November 2022

Background:Enamel defects EDs can affect the quality of life due to poor aesthetic appearance, post-eruptive caries and breakdown. Therefore, there is a need to provide further understanding about prevalence of EDs among Syrian children and etiological factors. Therefore, this study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and etiological factors of EDs among Syrian children aged 7 to 12 years in Damascus.
Methods: a cross-sectional observational study was undertaken. A total of 2000 schoolchildren (934 boys and 1066 girls) were firstly examined to detect EDs. Using the Enamel Defect Index (EDI), a second clinical examination was performed to 240 children with EDs. All surfaces of affected teeth were examined individually. A following telephone interview with parents was performed to investigate the etiological factors of EDs.
Results: The prevalence of EDs was 16.1%. Percentages of Localized enamel defects LEDs, Molar incisor hypomineralization MIH, amelogenesis imperfecta AI and EDs related to high fluoride intake were 51.7%, 42.7%, 5% and 0.6% respectively. The highest prevalence of EDs was observed in the upper incisors followed by the lower first molars, whilst EDs were least prevalent in upper lateral incisor. The etiological factors that significantly contribute to EDs type, were the place of residence and educational level of parents. Having higher educational level of parents was significantly associated with higher prevalence of MIH of children whilst LEDs were significantly associated with low educational level of parents. Other factors including gender, age, consanguineous marriage, economic status of family, medical problems and medications during pregnancy, nature of delivery, timing of birth, child's birth weight, type of feeding, genetic and systemic diseases and allergic problems, injuries, bruises and surgeries during childhood, were not associated with EDs.
Conclusions: information about the prevalence of EDs and etiological factors have been provided. Educational level of family and place of residence can be predisposing factors for the presence of EDs among Syrian children. There is a need for raising awareness towards EDs among Syrian community to take preventive measures in order to preserve the rest of intact dental tissues and prevent post-eruptive breakdown of affected teeth.
An Experimental Investigation on the Strength of Mud Based Geopolymeric Masonry Blocks Admixed With Steel Slag and GGBFS
Authors: K INFANT XAVIER K , K K.MAHENDRAN
Published: November 2022

This study aims to evaluate the role of steel slag and GGBFS in mud-based geopolymer blocks. For all mixes, a constant proportion of 30% GGBFS is used. Steel slag is replaced with soil in increments of 5%, ranging from 0–30%. The specimens were tested for dry and wet compressive strengths, water absorption, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV), Spray erosion, efflorescence, and dimensionality. Scanning Electron Microscopic Images were used to examine the microstructure of the specimens (SEM). The optimal mix was discovered to be 20% steel slag, 30% GGBFS, and 50% soil (i.e., Mix SGSS20). Under both curing conditions, the optimal amount of slags improved the strength behaviour of mud-based geopolymer masonry blocks. The experimental and microstructural results confirmed that the SGSS20 mix had better results due to good geopolymer formation in its interior composition. more significant dissolution of silica and alumina particles present in the slags improved the density of the blocks and reduced the pores.
Short-Term and Long-Term Outcomes of Single-Incision plus One-Port Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: A Propensity-Matched Cohort Study with Conventional Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Wu Mingyi , Wang Hao , Zhang Xuehua , Shi Jiaolong , Lan Xiaoliang , Mou Tingyu , Wang Yanan
Published: November 2022

Background
Single-incision plus one-port laparoscopic surgery (SILS + 1) has been demonstrated to be minimally invasive while possessing better cosmesis and less pain compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS). However, SILS + 1 as an alternative to CLS for colorectal cancer is still controversial.
Methods
A total of 1071 patients who underwent curative laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer between 2015 and 2018 were included. Of these patients, 258 SILS + 1 cases and 516 CLS cases were analyzed using propensity score matching. The baseline characteristics, surgical outcomes, pathologic findings and recovery course, morbidity and mortality within postoperative 30 days and 3-year disease-free and overall survival were compared.
Results
Baseline characteristics were balanced between the groups. The mean operating time was significantly shorter in SILS + 1 group, with less estimated blood loss. Tumor size, tumor differentiation, number of harvested lymph nodes, resection margin and pathologic T, N, TNM stage was similar between the groups. There was no significant difference in overall perioperative complications. Uni- and multivariate analyses revealed that SILS + 1 was not a risk factor for complications. Postoperatively, SILS + 1 group showed faster recovery than CLS group in terms of ambulation, bowel function, oral intake and discharge. The 3-year disease-free survival rates of SILS + 1 and CLS groups were 90.1% and 87.3%(p = 0.59), respectively and the 3-year overall survival rates were 93.3% vs. 89.8%(p = 0.172).
Discussion
Our study revealed that SILS + 1 is safe, feasible, oncologically efficient, and may be considered as a surgical option for selected patients with colorectal cancer.
Impact of ultrasound-assisted treatment on the physicochemical and structural properties of parboiled rice resistant starch with different amylose content
Authors: Shah Alia , Wu Zeyu , Qiang Ding , Zhang Wencheng , Cao Shuqing , Wang Yunchun
Published: November 2022

The impact of ultrasound-assisted treatment on the physicochemical and structural properties of two rice cultivars (Indica and Japonica) starch was examined. Ultrasound-assisted treatment significantly increases the resistant starch yield (28.58% and 18.25%) for Indica and Japonica respectively. Ultrasound-assisted treatment remarkably improved amylose content and exhibited higher solubility and swelling power. The scanning electron microscopy, particle size distribution, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry results revealed that ultrasound-assisted parboiled rice starch had a larger granule size with increased roughness, showed higher crystallinity, exhibited more stability, and ordered double-helix structure. The present study provides a theoretical foundation for the preparation of highly resistant starch parboiled rice using ultrasound-assisted treatment. This study will help to develop and facilitate the use of ultrasound chemistry in starch science and technology.
Predictive models for health-related quality of life built on two telemonitoring datasets
Authors: Tashkovska Matea , Krsteski Stefan , Kizhevska Emilija , Valič Jakob , Gjoreski Hristijan , Luštrek Mitja
Published: November 2022

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is an incurable disease where a key objective of the treatment is to maintain the patient's quality of life (QoL) as much as possible. A model that predicts health-related QoL (HRQoL) based on physiological and ambient parameters can be used to modify these parameters for the patient's benefit. Since it is difficult to predict how CHF will progress on an individual basis, in this study we tried to predict HRQoL for a particular patient as an individual, using two different datasets, collected while telemonitoring CHF patients. We used different types of imputation, classification models, number of classes, evaluation techniques, etc. for both datasets, but the main focus is on unifying the datasets, which allowed us to build cross-dataset models. The results showed that using general predictive models intended for previously unseen patients does not work well, but personalization significantly improves the prediction, both personalized models and personalized imputation, which is important due to many missing data in the datasets. However, this means that applications using such predictive models would also need to collect some labels of HRQoL to be able to help patients effectively.