bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study to Evaluate Microstrain of Low-profile Attachment Associated with and Without Bar Connection in Implant Assisted Mandibular Overdenture (In Vitro Study)
Authors: Ameen Norhan M. , El-Khodary Nabila , Abdel-Hamid Ahmed M. , Fahmy Aml E.
Published: March 2023

Background: Edentulous patients can have substantial difficulties using their conventional complete dentures due to a lack of retention, support, and stability and the related compromise in chewing ability. Endosseous implants have been shown to be a valuable rehabilitation for completely edentulous patients. Various attachment systems can be used for retaining mandibular overdentures such as bar, ball and socket, magnet, and locator. This study was done to compare the microstrain transmitted to peri-implant tissues of implant-assisted mandibular overdenture using two different low profile attachment designs; OT- Equator attachment with and without bar attachment.
Materials and Methods: A completely edentulous epoxy resin mandibular model was used, in which two parallel dental implants were inserted at the canine region bilaterally and one in the midline. Sixteen identical complete edentulous mandibular overdentures were fabricated following conventional, standardized techniques and were divided equally between two groups according to the design and placement of the OT-Equator. Group I were kept solitary with OT- Equator attachment loaded on three implants, while group II were splinted of three implants with a bar associated with 2 OT- Equator attachments in-between. Sixteen identical mandibular complete overdentures were constructed to which attachments were picked up. The difference in stress distribution was measured using strain gauges and compared between the two studied groups. Vertical load of 100 N using the universal testing machine were applied unilaterally on the left mesial fossae of mandibular first molar and bilaterally on bar attached in mandibular premolar molar region of the overdentures.
Results: Results revealed a statistically significant difference between groups I and II upon application of vertical bilateral and unilateral loading of 100 N, with mean microstrain values of P 0.05. Group I (OT-Equator attachment) showed lower strain values than Group II (OT-Equator bar attachment) upon application of vertical, unilateral, and bilateral loading of 100 N.
There was a positive correlation between the diameter of the attachment and the magnitude of stresses that are transferred to the cortical bone.
Conclusions: There was statistically significant difference in microstrain values at the peri implant tissues between OT-Equator attachment group and OT-Equator bar attachment group for implant assisted mandibular overdenture upon application of unilateral and bilateral vertical loading 100 N, Solitary OT-Equator attachment showed less microstrain values with favorable stress distribution when compared to OT-Equator bar attachment for implant-assisted mandibular overdenture.
Bitumen Modified with Resins Obtained from Coal Coking Liquid Products: Nature, Adhesive and Rheological Properties
Authors: Pyshyev Serhiy , Prysiazhnyi Yuriy , Borbeyiyong Guri , Vytrykush Nataliya
Published: March 2023

Coumarone-indene (CIR) and coumarone-indene-carbazole resins (CICR) were obtained by ionic cooligomerization based on fractions extracted from liquid products of coal coking (gasoline fractions and coal tar). CIR and CICR are used as road bitumen modifiers to improve thermal resistance and adhesion. A cheap plasticizer has been selected to be used with CIR to produce polymer-modified bitumen (PMB). The change in the composition and properties of bitumen modified with CIR was described. A method for estimating the change in the adhesion properties of bitumen at low temperatures has been developed, which simulates the behavior of bitumen during the operation of pavements in winter and during sharp changes in weather conditions. The possibility of using the obtained CICR as adhesive enhancers for bitumen has been established. It is shown that the addition of these resins significantly increases the adhesion of bitumen to the surface of granite gravel and glass.
Involvement of the Increased SF-1 Expression Induced by DNA Hypomethylation through DNMTs in Endometrial Decidualization
Authors: Mou Chun-Feng , Luo Li , Li Fang-Fang , Wang Ying-Xiong , Ge Lu-Xing , He Fan , Ding Yu-Bin
Published: March 2023

Abnormal endometrial decidualization is closely related to embryo implantation failure and other pregnancy complications. Steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1), which is also known as nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 1, is a transcriptional activator that is involved in sexual differentiation and formation of the primary steroidogenic tissues. Its regulatory role in mouse and human endometrial decidualization remains unclear. In normal pregnant mice models, the expression of SF-1 was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. In normal pregnant mice, the expression of SF-1 at the implantation site is higher than that in the inter-implantation site. In the artificial decidualization in vivo and in vitro models, the expression of SF-1 increased with the deepening of decidualization. The high expression of SF-1 could promote the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Based on the detection results of bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP), the methylation of the CpG island in the SF-1 promoter region decreased after the decidualization of mouse endometrium. The interference of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) expression promoted the expression of SF-1. The methylation inhibitor 5-aza resulted in the decrease in DNMTs, increase in SF-1 expression, and decidualization of ESCs. With the decidualization of the endometrium, the expression of SF-1 increased, whereas the DNA methylation of the SF-1 promoter decreased. The decrease in DNMTs resulted in increased SF-1 expression and promoted the decidualization of the endometrium. This study provides clues for the diagnosis and treatment of embryo implantation failure associated with abnormal decidualization.
Polarisation of Decayless Kink Oscillations of Solar Coronal Loops
Authors: Zhong Sihui , Nakariakov Valery , Kolotkov Dmitrii , Chitta Lakshmi Pradeep , Antolin Patrick , Verbeeck Cis , Berghmans David
Published: March 2023

Decayless kink oscillations of plasma loops in the solar corona may contain an answer to the enigmatic problem of solar and stellar coronal heating. The polarisation of the oscillations gives us a unique information about their excitation mechanisms and energy supply. However, unambiguous determination of the polarisation has remained elusive. Simultaneous detection of a 4-min decayless kink oscillation from two non-parallel lines-of-sights, separated by about 104 degrees, provided by unique combination of the High Resolution Imager on Solar Orbiter and the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly on Solar Dynamics Observatory, reveals, for the first time, a horizontal or weakly oblique linear polarisation of the oscillation. This conclusion is based on the comparison of observational results with forward modelling of the observational manifestation of various kinds of polarisation of kink oscillations. The revealed polarisation favours the sustainability of these oscillations by quasi-steady flows which may hence supply the energy for coronal heating.
Divergent selection for IMF in rabbits: A story told by plasma metabolites
Authors: Zubiri-Gaitán Agostina , BLASCO AGUSTIN , Hernández Pilar
Published: March 2023

This study provides a thorough comparison of the plasma metabolome of two rabbit lines divergently selected for intramuscular fat content (IMF). The divergent selection led to a correlated response in the overall adiposity, turning these lines into a valuable animal material to study also the genetics of obesity. Over 900 metabolites were detected, and the adjustment of multivariate models, both discriminant and linear, allowed to identify 322 with differential abundances between lines, which also adjusted linearly to the IMF content. The most affected pathways were those of lipids and amino acids, with differences between lines ranging from 0.23 to 6.04 standard deviations, revealing a limited capacity of the low-IMF line to obtain energy from lipids, and a greater branched-chain amino acids catabolism in the high-IMF line related to its increased IMF content. Additionally, changes in metabolites derived from microbial activity confirmed its relevant role in the lipid deposition.
Field root ecology and contribution of dominant vegetations in rhizoliths formation in Badain Jaren Desert, China
Authors: Sun Qingfeng , Yan Junli , Mustoe George , Zamanian Kazem , Tariq Akash , Wiesenberg Guido , Zhang Xuechen , Zeng Fanjiang
Published: March 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Perceptions of state measures and media coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic by people with long COVID - A qualitative interview study in Germany
Authors: Schmachtenberg Tim , Wegener Greta , Königs Gloria , Müller Frank , Müllenmeister Christina , Schröder Dominik
Published: March 2023

Background

Since its outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic has been discussed in various media channels. In Germany, state measures such as contact restrictions have been implemented to contain the incidence of infection. Nevertheless, there are many people who have been infected with the coronavirus and are affected by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or pain. How these people perceive pandemic-related coverage and state measures has not yet been adequately researched.

Methods

To address this gap, we conducted guided qualitative interviews with 25 adults with long COVID. The interviews were transcribed in terms of content-semantics and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results were then compared with other scientific findings.

Results

The interviews indicated a high approval of restrictive interventions to protect the public from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in this sample. About three-quarters of the participants rated the pandemic containment measures as appropriate. However, twelve of the 25 respondents were dissatisfied with the media coverage of the pandemic and protective measures. Besides inconsistent coverage, the discourse on coronavirus vaccination was specifically criticized. Several participants felt that the coverage of this issue was one-sided or noted a lack of government resolve. Furthermore, respondents criticized the repeal of state measures such as the mask obligation in Germany.

Conclusions

Overall, a need for more consideration of the concerns of people with long COVID in the public discourse on the pandemic becomes apparent. Part of an adapted communication strategy should be: (1) a transparent and target group-related information transfer on the newest findings and regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) an increased presence of the topic, long COVID, in society through various media. Additionally, the relevant public bodies should expand their engagement in this field. Moreover, the findings ot this study could be used as a starting point for a debate on the long-term implementation of measures to protect vulnerable populations.
Trial registration: The study is registered in the German register for clinical trials (DRKS00026007).
Daemullim: Empirical Evidence for Negative Pay-It-Forward Reciprocity in Hierarchical Situations
Authors: Kang Hyeran , Kim Juyoung , Kim Daeeun , Kim Hackjin
Published: March 2023

Fairness is one of fundamental norms in human society, where people expect others to be reciprocally fair. When people are treated unfairly, they tend to reciprocate unfairness directly. Moreover, unfairness may spread beyond the person directly involved, and affect innocent individuals, which is known as pay-it-forward (PIF) reciprocity. In this study, we examined the impact of unfair treatment on subsequent interactions with new partners whose rankings were superior, equivalent, or inferior compared to the participant. Participants (N = 47) were randomly assigned to receive either fair or unfair treatment in the first round of dictator game. They were then given the opportunity to distribute money to partners occupying different hierarchies. We investigated whether the degree of unfairness passed on to the new partners depended on their ranking. The results demonstrated that the participants’ decision was strongly influenced by the distribution made by the prior partner and the posterior partner’s hierarchy. The findings revealed that participants were more generous toward partners with higher social status, even if they had been treated unfairly, while they were more ruthless toward partners with lower social status in the same situation. These findings provide evidence for negative PIF reciprocity in hierarchical situations.
GPU-accelerated Dynamic Time Warping for Selective Nanopore Sequencing
Authors: Sadasivan Harisankar , Stiffler Daniel , Tirumala Ajay , Israeli Johnny , Narayanasamy Satish
Published: March 2023

The design and supply of RT-PCR primers for accurate virus testing is a complex process. The MinION is a revolutionary portable nanopore DNA sequencer that may be used to sequence the whole genome of a target virus in a biological sample. Human samples have more than 99% of non-target host DNA and Read Until is a protocol that enables the MinION to selectively eject reads in real-time. However, the MinION does not have any in-built compute power to select non-target reads. SquiggleFilter is a prior work that identified the accuracy and throughput challenges in performing Read Until using the state-of-the-art solution and proposed a hardware-accelerated subsequence Dynamic Time Warping (sDTW) based programmable filter on an ASIC. However, SquiggleFilter does not work for genomes larger than 100Kb. We optimize SquiggleFilter’s sDTW algorithm onto the more commonly available GPUs. DTWax better uses tensor core pipes, 2X-SIMD FP16 computations and efficient data handling strategies using offline pre-processing, coalesced global memory loads, warp shuffles and shared memory buffering among other optimizations. DTWax enables Read Until and yields ∼1.92X sequencing speedup and ∼3.64X compute speedup: costup over a sequencing workflow that does not use Read Until.
Efferocytosis-Related LncRNA Signatures for Predicting Prognosis and Immune Landscape of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Shengxiong , Zhao Xiuzhen , Liu Linxi , Fang Jiansong , Liu Wei , Zhang Haibo
Published: March 2023

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly malignant form of cancer with a high level of morbidity and mortality. The detection of biomarkers is useful, but still need more evaluation criteria to guide the diagnosis and treatment in clinical practice. This study focuses on identifying long non-coding RNAs(lncRNAs) and find the relation with efferocytosis to predict prognosis and target drug.
Methods
We got the transcriptomic data and clinical data from TCGA platform. Risk model were identified by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). Then samples were randomly divided into two groups, including training groups and test group. We analyzed the different groups with complete data on lncRNA expression and clinical information, building a risk model and verifying its feasibility. Then we conducted prognostic, pathway, and immune analyses of the risk model. We also looked at drug sensitivity to the risk model, and explored the potential function of the model.
Results
We constructed a risk model containing five efferocytosis-related lncRNAs (ERLs) signatures (LINC01614, AC016717.2, AC068790.7, SCAT1, and PVT1). Then the feasibility of the risk model is verified. We conducted a Cox regression analysis and constructed ROC curves to evaluate the predictive performance of risk features for overall survival (OS) in GC patients, as well as other clinical and pathological characteristics. The risk model had the highest AUC value among these characteristics. We developed a nomogram based on risk scores and clinical characteristics including age, grade, gender, and stage. We used a calibration plot to demonstrate good consistency between the nomogram and the predicted 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates. These results suggested that the risk model feature is valuable for GC patients. We then evaluated the immune response between different groups, demonstrated that individuals with a high risk score tended to have a higher state of immune infiltration. We also conducted sensitivity screening for guideline drugs, and eight drugs showed significant differences.
Conclusion
The 5-ERLs signatures is useful for predicting prognosis of OS, forecasting the immune response and improving treatment modalities for further clinical application in GC.
Public Attitudes Toward Organ Donation. Development and Validation of a New Instrument (PAOD)
Authors: Othman Elham , Al-salhi Adham , AlOsta Mohammad
Published: March 2023

The number of patients in need of life-saving organ transplants continues to exceed the number of available. One of the most important factors influencing peoples’ practices and rates of organ donation is their attitude and beliefs toward it. However, there is no validated comprehensive instrument that evaluates peoples’ attitudes toward organ donation. Thus, this study aimed to develop and validate such tool. A questionnaire was prepared after reviewing literature. The initial items (n = 45) were evaluated by 15 nonexperts pilot to verify face validity, then content validity was established by three experts, and construct validity was established by Exploratory Factorial Analysis. Afterward, internal consistency was checked using Cronbach’s alpha analysis. Eventually, a total of 31 items were included in the questionnaire, distributed on four subscales. According to the results, we found that the Public Attitude toward Organ Donation questionnaire has adequate validity and reliability to assess the peoples’ attitudes toward organ donation.
Smith-specific regulatory T cells halt the progression of lupus nephritis
Authors: Ooi Joshua , Cheong Rachel , Eggenhuizen Peter , Chang Janet , Broury Ashraf , Ng Boaz , Loh Khai , Tay Elean , Shen Chanjuan , Monk Julie , Zhong Yong , Lim Steven , Chung Jia Xi , Kandane-Rathnayake Rangi , Koelmeyer Rachel , Hoi Alberta , Chaudhry Ashutosh , Snelgrove Sarah , Ting Yi Tian , Morand Eric
Published: March 2023

Antigen-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress pathogenic autoreactivity and are potential therapeutic candidates for autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lupus nephritis is associated with autoreactivity to the Smith (Sm) autoantigen and the human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR15 haplotype; hence, we investigated the potential of Sm-specific Tregs (Sm-Tregs) to suppress disease. We identified a novel HLA-DR15 restricted immunodominant Sm T cell epitope using biophysical affinity binding assays, then identified high-affinity Sm-specific T cell receptors (TCRs) using high-throughput single-cell sequencing. Using lentiviral vectors, we transduced an lead Sm-specific TCR onto Tregs derived from patients with SLE who were anti-Sm and HLA-DR15 positive. Compared with polyclonal Tregs, Sm-Tregs potently suppressed Sm-specific pro-inflammatory responses in vitro and suppressed disease progression in a humanized mouse model of lupus nephritis. These results show that Sm-Tregs are a promising therapy for SLE.
Structure of a Rpd3/HDAC holoenzyme complex bound to the nucleosome
Authors: Wang Xuejuan , Zhang Yueyue , Cai Gang
Published: March 2023

The Sin3/HDAC complexes are highly conserved from yeast to humans and function by deacetylating histones, condensing chromatin, and modulating gene expression. Despite the continued analysis of HDAC inhibitors in clinical trials, our mechanistic understanding of the HDAC activity is hindered by the lack of a high-resolution structure of complexes from this family. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Rpd3S/Sin3B bound to a nucleosome, at atomic resolution. In the structure, two copies of Rco1 and two copies of Eaf3 are integrated through the scaffold subunit Sin3, which wraps the catalytic Rpd3/HDAC. Rco1 and Eaf3 recognize the H3 tails with a specific methylation pattern. N-terminal disordered region of Rco1 contacts the histones at the acidic patch. Furthermore, Rco1, Eaf3 and the Sin3 subunits also bind to extranucleosomal and nucleosomal DNA. These multivalent interactions not only facilitate detaching histone tails from nucleosomes but also optimally orient the complex to H3 tail, catalyzing deacetylation of H3K18 in our structure. The complex architecture and dimeric Rco1-Eaf3 heterodimer offer the ergonomics allowing one Rpd3S simultaneously engages two neighboring nucleosomes. Our study elucidates the central roles played by the non-catalytic subunits in a class I HDAC complex provides a structural framework for the understanding of HDAC regulation by histone modifications.
Compare the effect of Orthokeratology and Highly Aspherical Lenslets on slowing the progression of myopia
Authors: Li Chao , Gong WeiFen , Lou ZhiYin , Zhang MingZhi
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of Highly Aspherical Lenslets (HAL) in slowing myopia progression among school children and compare it to Orthokeratology.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 186 cases of myopic individuals aged between 7 to 15 years, with myopia ranging from -0.75 to -8.00D and astigmatism of ≤ 4.0D. Each group consisted of 62 subjects, and only the right eye was included in the analysis. The study involved six-monthly measurements of both cycloplegic refraction and axial length to track changes over time.
Results: The baseline average age, gender, Spherical equivalent refraction (SER), and axial length (AL) in the SV group, HAL group, and Ortho-K group were no statistically significant differences (P>0.05). At six months, average (SER) myopia progression was -0.44±0.34 D in the single vision (SV) lenses group and -0.16±0.32 D in the HAL group. Average axial elongation was 0.22±0.13mm in the SV group, 0.08±0.14mm in the HAL group and 0.04±0.11mm in the orthokeratology group. As compared to the SV group, the HAL group reduced myopia progression (SER) to 65.9% (mean difference 0.29±0.46D, P＜0.001). Compared with the SV group, the HAL group axial elongation more slowly(63.6%, mean difference 0.14±0.19mm, P＜0.001). Likewise, axial elongation more slowly at 81.8% for orthokeratology group subjects than the SV group (mean difference 0.18±0.20mm， P＜0.001). In terms of individual issues, 35 of 62 children wearing HAL had no myopia progression after 6 months, higher than the SV group (15 of 62, 24.2%, P＜0 .001). In addition, 30.6% of children with HAL revealed no axial elongation, compared with 3.2% of those with SV lenses (2 of 62, P＜0 .001). The axial elongation of HAL and Ortho-K lenses (28 of 62, 45.2%) was similar (P> 0.05).
Conclusions: Wearing the HAL daily slows myopia progression in myopic children and significantly reduces axial elongation. Additionally, both the daily employment of HAL and overnight Orthokeratology demonstrate comparable efficacy in slowing axial elongation in myopic children.
Bosonic spectrum of a correlated multiband system, BaFe1.80Co0.20As2, obtained via infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Hwang Jungseek , Panda Candan , Lee Hang Gu , Park Hwiwoo , Jung Soon-Gil , Choi Ki-Young
Published: March 2023

We investigated a single crystal BaFe2-xCoxAs2 (Co-doped BaFe2As2: Co-Ba122) to obtain a bosonic spectrum using infrared spectroscopy. We used the generalized Allen formula, an extended Drude-Lorentz model for the normal state, and a two-parallel-channel approach for the superconducting (SC) state to obtain the bosonic spectrum from the optical conductivity. This analysis required a couple of Lorentz modes at very low-energy, but these modes were not necessary to analyze the K-doped BaFe2As2 (K-Ba122) and LiFeAs. Various physical quantities, such as the coupling constant, maximum SC transition temperature, SC coherence length, and upper critical field, were extracted from the bosonic spectrum. The superfluid plasma frequency and the London penetration depth were also obtained from the optical conductivity. The physical properties of Co-Ba122 and K-Ba122 were also compared and discussed in this study. We believe that our results will be helpful in figuring out the microscopic pairing mechanism for superconductivity in doped Ba122 systems and will provide useful information on their applications.
Association between Air Pollutants and Initiation of Biological Therapy in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Nationwide, Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Kao Chung-Mao , Chen Yi-Ming , Huang Wen-Nan , Chen Yi-Hsing , Chen Hsin-Hua
Published: March 2023

Background: Outdoor air pollution has been found to trigger systemic inflammatory responses and aggravate the activity of certain rheumatic diseases. However, few studies have explored the influence of air pollution on the activity of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). As patients with active AS in Taiwan can be reimbursed through the National Health Insurance program for biological therapy, we investigated the association between air pollutants and the initiation of biologics for active disease in patients with AS.
Methods: Since 2011, hourly concentrations of ambient air pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, SO2 and O3 have been estimated in Taiwan. Using Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database, we identified patients with newly diagnosed AS from 2003 to 2013. We selected 584 patients initiating biologics from 2012 to 2013 and 2,336 gender-, age at biologic initiation-, year of AS diagnosis- and disease duration-matched controls. We examined the associations of biologics initiation with air pollutants exposure within one year prior to biologic use while adjusting for potential confounders, including disease duration, urbanisation level, monthly income, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), uveitis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease and the use of medications for AS. Results are shown as adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results: The initiation of biologics was associated with exposure to CO (per 1 ppm) (aOR, 8.58; 95% CI, 2.02–36.35), and NO2 (per 10 ppb) (aOR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.11–0.50). Other independent predictors included disease duration (incremental year, aOR, 8.97), CCI (aOR, 1.31), psoriasis (aOR, 25.06), use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aOR, 23.66), methotrexate use (aOR, 4.53; 95% CI, 2.93–7.00), sulfasalazine use (aOR, 12.15; 95% CI, 8.98–15.45) and prednisolone equivalent dosages (mg/day, aOR, 1.11).
Conclusions: This nationwide, population-based study revealed that the initiation of biologics was positively associated with CO levels, but negatively associated with NO2 levels.
Urinary free cortisol is an independent predictive factor for early distinction between ectopic ACTH secretion and pituitary Cushing’s disease
Authors: FURNICA RALUCA MARIA , NACHIT MARINE , COLLARD ALIX , CORNELIS FRANK , ALEXOPOULOU ORSALIA , MAITER DOMINIQUE
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To identify potential predictors for early suspicion of Cushing’s syndrome due to ectopic ACTH secretion (ECS) in comparison with pituitary Cushing’s disease (CD).
Methods: Retrospective case-nested study of 18 patients with ECS compared with 36 patients with CD matched for the time of diagnosis.
Results: Serum potassium level ≤ 3.65 mmol/L had a sensitivity and a specificity of 77% and LDH level > 1.3xULN had a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 68% for the diagnosis of ECS. Both parameters were correlated with 24h urinary-free cortisol (UFC) which was markedly higher in the ECS group (p<0.05). On univariate analysis, older age at diagnosis, male sex, hypokalemia, higher LDH and UFC values were significant predictors of ECS. Male sex increased the relative risk of ECS by 6.8 times and hypokalemia increased this risk by 52 times for each 1.0 mmol/L-decrease in potassium. Only UFC (expressed as log10) remained as independent predictive factor in the multivariate analysis (p=0.0009). A discriminant decision-tree approach showed that UFC ≥ 633 µg/24h (10.5-fold the ULN) was the best cut-off with a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 92% for the diagnosis of ECS.
Conclusion: While severe hypokalemia and higher LDH values are linked to a more severe degree of hypercortisolism in patients with ECS, 24h UFC at diagnosis appears to be the most reliable independent predictor of ECS, with the best cut-off value determined at 10.5-fold the ULN, above which clinicians should rapidly suspect ECS and perform a thoraco-abdominal CT scan.
Novel Tetrahedral Human Phantoms for Space Radiation Dose Assessment
Authors: Chancellor Jeffery , Chesal Megan , Blue Rebecca , Aunon-Chancellor Serena
Published: March 2023

Space radiation remains one of the primary hazards to spaceflight crews. The unique nature of the intravehicular radiation spectrum makes prediction of biological outcomes difficult, with computational simulation-based efforts stymied by lack of computational resources or accurate modeling capabilities. Recent advancements in both Monte Carlo simulations and computational human phantom developments have allowed for complex radiation simulations and dosimetric calculations to be performed for numerous applications. In this work, advanced tetrahedral-type human phantoms were exposed to a simulated spectrum of particles equivalent to a single days exposure in the International Space Station in Low Earth Orbit. 3D Monte Carlo techniques were used to produce and simulate the radiation spectra. Organ absorbed dose, average energy deposition, and the whole-body integral dose was determined for a male and female phantom. Results were then extrapolated for two long-term scenarios: a 6-9 month mission on the International Space Station and a 3-year mission to Mars. The whole-body integral dose for the male and female models were found to be 0.2985 ± 0.0002 mGy/day 0.3050 ± 0.0002 mGy/day, respectively, which is within 10% of recorded dose values from the International Space Station. This work presents a novel approach to assess absorbed dose from space-like radiation fields using high-fidelity computational phantoms, highlighting the utility of complex models for space radiation research.
Does adoption of environmental policy matter for women's political empowerment in developing countries?
Authors: Ondoa Henri Atangana , ELOUNDOU Georges NGNOUWAL , Beyene Blaise Ondoua
Published: March 2023

This paper assesses the effect of environmental policy on women's political empowerment (WPE). Using a sample of 96 developing countries (DCs), we specify and estimate a static and dynamic panel data model using pooled ordinary least squares (POLS) and system generalized method of moments (sGMM) over the period 2006-2019. Our results show that environmental policy significantly increases WPE. Robustness is tested through the use of disaggregated indexes, political participation, civil society participation and women's civil liberties. We suggest a strategic adoption of effective and inclusive environmental policies for the consolidation of women's political empowerment in developing countries.
Senolytic therapy alleviates physiological human brain aging and COVID-19 neuropathology
Authors: Aguado Julio , Amarilla Alberto , Fard Atefeh Taherian , Albornoz Eduardo , Tyshkovskiy Alexander , Schwabenland Marius , Chaggar Harman , Modhiran Naphak , Gómez-Inclán Cecilia , Javed Ibrahim , Baradar Alireza , Liang Benjamin , Dharmaratne Malindrie , Pietrogrande Giovanni , Padmanabhan Pranesh , Freney Morgan , Parry Rhys , Sng Julian , Isaacs Ariel , Khromykh Alexander , Rojas-Fernandez Alejandro , Davis Thomas , Prinz Marco , Bengsch Bertram , Gladyshev Vadim , Woodruff Trent , Mar Jessica , Watterson Daniel , Wolvetang Ernst
Published: March 2023

Aging is the primary risk factor for most neurodegenerative diseases, and recently coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with severe neurological manifestations that can eventually impact neurodegenerative conditions in the long-term. The progressive accumulation of senescent cells in vivo strongly contributes to brain aging and neurodegenerative co-morbidities but the impact of virus-induced senescence in the aetiology of neuropathologies is unknown. Here, we show that senescent cells accumulate in physiologically aged brain organoids of human origin and that senolytic treatment reduces inflammation and cellular senescence; for which we found that combined treatment with the senolytic drugs dasatinib and quercetin rejuvenates transcriptomic human brain aging clocks. We further interrogated brain frontal cortex regions in postmortem patients who succumbed to severe COVID-19 and observed increased accumulation of senescent cells as compared to age-matched control brains from non-COVID-affected individuals. Moreover, we show that exposure of human brain organoids to SARS-CoV-2 evoked cellular senescence, and that spatial transcriptomic sequencing of virus-induced senescent cells identified a unique SARS-CoV-2 variant-specific inflammatory signature that is different from endogenous naturally-emerging senescent cells. Importantly, following SARS-CoV-2 infection of human brain organoids, treatment with senolytics blocked viral retention and prevented the emergence of senescent corticothalamic and GABAergic neurons. Furthermore, we demonstrate in human ACE2 overexpressing mice that senolytic treatment ameliorates COVID-19 brain pathology following infection with SARS-CoV-2. In vivo treatment with senolytics improved SARS-CoV-2 clinical phenotype and survival, alleviated brain senescence and reactive astrogliosis, promoted survival of dopaminergic neurons, and reduced viral and senescence-associated secretory phenotype gene expression in the brain. Collectively, our findings demonstrate SARS-CoV-2 can trigger cellular senescence in the brain, and that senolytic therapy mitigates senescence-driven brain aging and multiple neuropathological sequelae caused by neurotropic viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
Serum kynurenine and beta-alanine levels are associated with Wnt pathway gene expression in leukocytes of patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hajihassani Afsaneh , Nourazarian Alireza , Nikanfar Masoud , Laghousi Delara , Khaki-Khatibi Fatemeh
Published: March 2023

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world. Despite its worldwide prevalence, there is currently no clear explanation of the mechanism of this disease. Moreover, the lack of reliable and accurate biomarkers makes the early detection of PD difficult. Therefore, we aimed to investigate serum beta-alanine and kynurenine levels and the expression of Wnt pathway genes in leukocytes from patients with PD.
Methods: Ninety patients (45 with PD and 45 healthy individuals) were enrolled in this study. 10 mL of blood samples were taken from all participants. The serum levels of beta-alanine and kynurenine were measured using ELISA, and the expression of Wnt pathway genes in leukocytes was determined using real-time PCR.
Results: Serum levels of kynurenine and beta-alanine were higher in patients with PD than in the control group. Data analysis also showed that the expression of some genes of the Wnt signaling pathway in leukocytes was decreased.
Conclusions: A correlation was observed between serum beta-alanine and kynurenine levels and the expression of the Wnt pathway gene in leukocytes in patients with PD. Therefore, these biomarkers can be used for early detection, monitoring, and treatment of patients with PD.
Experimental Investigation of Effect of Flyash and Perlite on Hydration Temperature in Self Compacting Concrete
Authors: Gandage Abhijeet , Ram V. Vinayaka
Published: March 2023

The cement hydration reaction is an exothermic reaction characterized by rise in temperature within the concrete during its setting phase. This is significant in the case of self-compacting concrete (SCC), having high cement content and low water-cement ratio. An experimental investigation was undertaken to measure the temperature developed during the setting of M-40 grade SCC mix with crushed sand. Mix A without any powder additions, Mix B with 20% fly ash as a cement replacement material and Mix C with 20% fly ash as a cement replacement material and 5% perlite as fine aggregate replacement were studied. The instrumented cube specimens corresponding to three mixes were observed for a period of 48 hours and the temperature values observed during setting phase of concrete mixes were plotted. The maximum cube temperature for Mix B was 3% lower as compared to maximum cube temperature in Mix A, while for Mix C it was 7% lower than the maximum temperature recorded for Mix A. Addition of fly ash and perlite reduced the temperature due to hydration reaction.
Intelligent Intrusion Detection System Using Log Cluster Knowledge Inference Bayes in Complex Event Processing
Authors: S Sandosh , R Padmanaban , R Kaviarasan , M Azhagiri
Published: March 2023

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are critical components in a secure network environment, permitting for initial discovery of malicious actions along with attacks. By means of using the data provided by IDS, it is probable to relate proper countermeasures and to alleviate attacks that extremely determine the security of a network. Widespread research was done in the field of IDS design to construct highly scalable IDS without compromising efficiency and security. The purpose of the proposed work is to develop Intelligent IDS using Log Cluster Knowledge Inference Bayes (IIDS-LCKIB) in Complex Event Processing (CEP) Environment. IIDS-LCKIB is used to examine the network traffic data effectivelyIIDS-LCKIB provide the better CEP Environment. Further, it endeavours to decrease the rate of False Positive for the solicitation of network intrusion systems in the real-world and to focus on security along with scalability in Network traffic data. In addition, it tries to test and estimate the performance using New Mathematical IIDS-LCKIB in CEP Environment. The parameters simulation is tested in Java/J2EE software.
Anatomical and surgical characteristics correlate with pachymeningeal failure in patients with brain metastases after neurosurgical resection and adjuvant stereotactic radiosurgery
Authors: Kalyvas Aristotelis , Gutierrez-Valencia Enrique , Lau Ruth , Ye Xiang Y , O'Halloran Philip J. , Mohan Nilesh , Wong Christine , Millar Barbara-Ann , Laperriere Normand , Conrad Tatiana , Berlin Alejandro , Bernstein Mark , Zadeh Gelareh , Shultz David B. , Kongkham Paul
Published: March 2023

Purpose
Neurosurgery (NS) is an essential modality for large brain metastases (BM). Postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the standard of care adjuvant treatment. Pachymeningeal failure (PMF) is a newly described entity, distinct from classical leptomeningeal failure (LMF), that is uniquely observed in postoperative patients treated with adjuvant SRS. We sought to identify risk factors for PMF in patients treated with NS + SRS.
Methods
From a prospective registry (2009 to 2021), we identified all patients treated with NS + SRS. Clinical, imaging, pathological, and treatment factors were analyzed. PMF incidence was evaluated using a competing risks model.
Results
144 Patients were identified. The median age was 62 (23–90). PMF occurred in 21.5% (31/144). Female gender [Hazard Ratio (HR) 2.65, p = 0.013], higher Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) index (HR 2.4, p < 0.001), absence of prior radiation therapy (HR N/A, p = 0.018), controlled extracranial disease (CED) (HR 3.46, p = 0.0038), and pia/dura contact (PDC) (HR 3.30, p = 0.0053) were associated with increased risk for PMF on univariate analysis. In patients with PDC, wider target volumes correlated with reduced risk of PMF. Multivariate analysis indicated PDC (HR 3.51, p = 0.0053), piecemeal resection (HR 2.38, p = 0.027), and CED (HR 3.97, p = 0.0016) independently correlated with PMF risk. PMF correlated with reduced OS (HR 2.90, p < 0.001) at a lower rate compared to LMF (HR 10.15, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
PMF correlates with tumor PDC and piecemeal resection in patients treated with NS + SRS. For unclear reasons, it is also associated with CED. In tumors with PDC, wider dural radiotherapy coverage was associated with a lower risk of PMF.
Proteomics profiling reveals biomarkers for predicting diagnosis, disease activity and long-term disability outcome in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Åkesson Julia , Hojjati Sara , Hellberg Sandra , Raffetseder Johanna , Khademi Mohsen , Rynkowski Robert , Kockum Ingrid , Altafini Claudio , Lubovac-Pilav Zelmina , Mellergård Johan , Jenmalm Maria , Piehl Fredrik , Olsson Tomas , Ernerudh Jan , Gustafsson Mika
Published: March 2023

To personalize multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment strategies, sensitive and reliable protein biomarkers are needed to predict disease trajectory. We used protein profiling based on the highly sensitive proximity extension assay combined with next generation sequencing (Olink Explore) to measure 1463 proteins in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma from 143 people with early-stage MS and 43 healthy controls. With longitudinally followed discovery and replication cohorts we identified CSF proteins that consistently predicted both short- and long-term disease progression. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) in CSF was confirmed as superior for predicting the absence of disease activity 2 years after sampling (replication AUC = 0.77). Importantly, we also identified a combination of 11 CSF proteins (CXCL13, LTA, FCN2, ICAM3, LY9, SLAMF7, TYMP, CHI3L1, FYB1, TNFRSF1B, NfL) that could predict the severity of disability worsening according to the normalized age-related MS severity score (replication AUC = 0.90). Identified proteins elucidate pathogenetic processes and can aid decisions of treatment strategies for people with MS.
Community Deception in Directed Influence Networks
Authors: Madi Saif Aldeen , Pirrò Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

Community deception is about protecting users of a community from being discovered by community detection algorithms. This paper stud- ies community deception in Directed Influence Networks (DIN) and aims to address limitations of the state-of-the-art through a two-fold strategy: introducing directed influence and considering the role of nodes in the deception strategy. The study focuses on using modularity as the optimization function and offers several contributions, including an upgraded version of modularity that accommodates the concept of influence, edge-based and node-based deception algorithms. The study concludes with a comparison of the proposed methods with the state-of-the-art showing that not only influence is a useful ingredient to devise deception strategies but also that novel deception strategies centered on node operations can be successfully devised.
Diffraction patterning using back scattering of electrons in Zr47.5Cu45.5Al5Co2 Bulk Metallic Glass Matrix Composites
Authors: RAFIQUE Muhammad Musaddique Ali
Published: March 2023

Bulk metallic glass matrix composites have emerged as competent structural material of future bearing potential structural applications. However, the optimum percentage of crystallinity required to produce enough toughness that it can serve as structural component is still a matter of debate. In this study, an effort is made to address this problem by inoculation. A controlled amount of carefully selected inoculant is introduced in Zr47.5Cu45.5Al5Co2 bulk metallic glass matrix composite during melting and solidification. Its effect is checked by detailed diffraction patterning using back scattering of electrons in scanning microscopy using a detector. Proper pattern capture, background correction, binning, Hough space transformation, step size selection, indexing and matching with well-defined crystal structure files have shown to reflect upon pattern and map quality. This shows and bears direct relation with effect of inoculation. Results from two independent laboratories are reported. Diffraction is observed and indicates towards presence of crystalline phases. Inoculation treatment is shown to be advantageous.
On the ERDŐS distance problem
Authors: Agama Theophilus
Published: March 2023

Note: Please see pdf for full abstract with equations.
In this paper, using the method of compression, we recover the lower bound for the Erdős unit distance problem and provide an alternative proof to the distinct distance conjecture. In particular, we show that for sets of points 𝔼 ⊂ Rk concentrated around the origin with #𝔼 ∩ Nk = n/2, we have
#{ || xj − xt|| : xj ∈ 𝔼 ⊂ Rk, || xj − xt|| = 1, 1 ≤ t, j ≤ n} ≫ k √k/2 n1+o(1).
We also show that
#{ dj : dj = || xs − yt||, dj ≠ di, 1 ≤ s, t ≤ n} ≫k √k/2 n2/k−o(1).
2000 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary 54C40, 14E20; Secondary 46E25, 20C20.
Design, Fabrication, and Implementation of Post-Combustor for Emission Control
Authors: SINGH ARPIT KUMAR , REHAN MOHAMMAD , SINGH SANDIP KUMAR
Published: March 2023

Developing countries like India are facing a major concern of an increase in the level of air pollution which is a result of the rapidly increasing number of vehicles and industries. This study aims to reduce the level of exhaust emission from vehicles and industry by using a Post-combustor. Post- combustor is a device that is used to control exhaust emissions by burning the un-burned by-product by providing extra heat to exhaust gases before eliminating it into the atmosphere. In this study a Post-combustor was designed and fabricated using glow-plugs which convert electrical energy into thermal energy using a 12-Volt power supply from the vehicle itself, glow-plugs can attain a temperature of up to 1600˚C in just a few seconds which is sufficient enough to reduce carbon monoxide, Unburned Hydrocarbons and other constituents of exhaust emissions.
Outcome of patients with Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections treated with cefiderocol: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Calò Federica , Onorato Lorenzo , De Luca Ilaria , Macera Margherita , Monari Caterina , Durante-Mangoni Emanuele , Massa Alessia , Gentile Ivan , Caprio Giovanni Di , Pagliano Pasquale , Numis Fabio Giuliano , Iuliano Pasquale , Buonomo Antonio Riccardo , Leone Sebastiano , Maggi Paolo , Coppola Nicola
Published: March 2023

Background: No clear evidence supports the use of cefiderocol as first line treatment in A. baumannii infections.
Methods: We conducted an observational retrospective/prospective multicenter study including all patients >18 years with carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii(CRAB) infections treated with cefiderocol, from June 1 2021 to October 30 2022. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality, secondary end-points the clinical and microbiological response at 7 days and at the end of treatment. Furthermore, we compared the clinical and microbiological outcomes among patients who received cefiderocol in monotherapy or in combination.
Results: Forty infections were included [mean age 65 years (SD +16.3), 75% males, 90% with hospital-acquired infections and 70% showing sepsis or septic shock]. The most common infections included unknown source or catheter-related bacteremia (45%) and pneumonia (40%). We observed at 7 days and at the end of therapy a rate of microbiological failure of 20% and 10%, respectively, and of clinical failure of 47.5% and 32.5%, respectively; the in-hospital mortality rate was 50%. At multivariate analysis McCabe score of 2-3 and clinical failure at 7 days of treatment were the only independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Comparing monotherapy (used in 72.5%) vs. combination therapy (used in 27.5%), no differences were observed in mortality (51.7 vs 45.5%) and clinical (41.4 vs 63.7%) or microbiological failure (24.1 vs 9.1%).
Conclusions: The findings of this study reinforce the effectiveness of cefiderocol in CRAB infections, also as monotherapy. However, prospective multicenter studies with larger sample sizes and a control group treated with standard of care are needed to identify the best treatment for CRAB infections.