bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicians’ Experiences with the Primary Care Chronic Disease Management Program in South Korea: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Koo Bon Mi , Do Young Kyung
Published: March 2024

Background
Chronic diseases impose a substantial burden on society, and enhancing the quality of chronic disease management in primary care settings has emerged as a policy priority. The Korean government initiated the Primary care Chronic Disease Management Program as a pilot project in 2019, aiming to deliver comprehensive, continuous, and coordinated care to patients with hypertension and diabetes in primary care settings. The purpose of this study was to explore physicians’ experiences during the program implementation.
Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight physicians who participated in the program, with each interview lasting between 60 to 90 minutes. Thematic analysis was applied to the interview transcripts to generate well-structured and detailed description of data.
Results
The potentials of the program for improving chronic disease management included systematic management of chronic diseases, increased concern on patient education and counselling during consultation, improved therapeutic relationships with patients, and assuming greater responsibility for managing chronic diseases. However, challenges persist in the implementation of the program. These challenges encompass the gap between guidelines and their implementation in real-world settings, time-consuming administrative work, patient's out-of-pocket expenses, and insufficient incentives for fostering a team-based approach. Various contextual challenges were also observed.
Conclusion
While the program has served as a catalyst for enhancing the quality of chronic care by stipulating and incentivizing normative practice guidelines in the current fee-for-service system, substantial challenges still persist, both within the program and beyond.
Ruxolitinib plus basiliximab therapy for steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease in unrelated cord blood transplantation: a large-scale study
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyu , Wu Yue , Sun Guangyu , Tang Baolin , Song Kaidi , Cheng Yaxin , Tu Meijuan
Published: March 2024

Steroid-refractory (SR) acute graft-versus-host disease(aGVHD) is a major cause of mortality after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ruxolitinib plus basiliximab for treating SR-aGVHD after unrelated cord blood transplantation (UCBT). Among the 1154 patients with hematological malignancies who underwent UCBTbetween February 2014 and May 2022, 198 patients with grade II to IV SR-aGVHD were enrolled, 112 of whom were treated with basiliximab alone (basiliximab group) and 86 of whom received basiliximab plus ruxolitinib (combined therapy group). The combined therapy group demonstrated a significantly higher complete response rate (CRR) on day 28 (36.0%) than did the basiliximab group (12.5%, P < 0.001). SR-aGVHD patients were further stratified into standard-risk and high-risk groups using the refined Minnesota aGVHD risk score. For standard-risk patients, combined therapy significantly improved the CRR (51.1% versus 13.6%, P < 0.001) and 3-year overall survival (74.5% versus 52.4%, P = 0.033). However, high-risk patients did not exhibit the same benefits. Compared with basiliximab monotherapy, ruxolitinib plus basiliximab therapy was an effective therapy for patients with standard-risk SR-aGVHD following UCBT. The effectiveness of combined therapy in high-risk patients was not apparent, indicating the need for other treatments.
Socio environmental determinants of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization risk in arid and semi-arid regions – a case study for Gonabad city,Iran 2017-2022
Authors: Mohamadpour Ali , Rezaei Zahed , Parvari Arash , Rodriguez-Couto Susana , Alami Ali , khosravan Shahla , Kalankesh Laleh R.
Published: March 2024

Background
Since questioning regarding climate and incidents of cardiovascular rates have been debated. This study was designed to investigate the association between cardiovascular mortality hospitalization risk and demographic-meteorological factors in the arid and semi-arid zone of Iran during (1st April 2017 and 31st December 2022).
Methods
Logistic and negative binomial regression and Pearson regression were used for analysis.
Results
A mean age of 61.52 years old (49.5% female and 50.5% male) was recorded for the hospitalization. Peak numbers of daily hospitalization were observed in winter (18%), followed by autumn (16%). Cardiovascular hospitalization presented a significant positive correlation with the wind (P = 0.05) and temperature (P = 0.016) in the hot season, whereas showing a negative correlation with humidity (P = 0.013) and wind factor (P = 0.05) in the cold season. Similarly, a negative correlation between cardiovascular mortality and speed of wind (P = 0.05) was observed in summer.
Conclusion
It concluded that there were associations between demographic-meteorological factors and the occurrence of cardiovascular hospitalization-mortality in arid and semiarid region.
Genome-wide association mapping and candidate genes analysis of high-throughput image descriptors for wheat frost resistance
Authors: Wu Jianhui , Yu Rui , Liu Yixue , Yuan Meng , Jiang Pingtao , Zhao Jiwen , Zhang Chuanliang , Xu Xiaowan , Wang Qilin , Wang Yuze , Chen Tiantian , Kang Zhensheng , Zeng Qingdong , Zhao Yusheng , Su Baofeng , Han Dejun
Published: March 2024

Frost risk is increasingly occurring in winter wheat. Quantitative assessment of frost risk can facilitate the analysis of key genetic factors related to wheat resistance to abiotic stress. We collected 491 wheat accessions and selected four image-based descriptors (BLUE band, RED band, NDVI, and GNDVI) to quantitatively assess their frost risk. Image descriptors can complement the visual estimation of frost risk. Combined with GWAS, a total of 107 quantitative trait loci (QTL) (r2 ranging from 0.75% to 9.48%) were identified, including the well-known frost-resistant locus Frost Resistance (Fr)-1/ Vernalization (Vrn)-1. Additionally, by utilizing published RNA-Seq data, we identified two other frost resistance candidate genes TraesCS2A03G1077800 and TraesCS5B03G1008500. Furthermore, when combined with genome selection (GS), image-based descriptors can predict frost risk with high accuracy (r≤0.84). In conclusion, our research confirms the accuracy of image-based high-throughput acquisition of frost risk, thereby supplementing the exploration of the genetic structure of frost resistance in wheat within complex field environments.
Impact of Beta Cyclodextrin-Encapsulated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Heterogeneous Catalysts in Microbial Oil Production: An Investigation
Authors: . R. Janice , . A. Dayanandan , . K.Viswanathan
Published: March 2024

The catalytic activity of beta cyclodextrin encapsulated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in microbial oil synthesis was investigated utilizing Streptomyces fradiae as the microbe and rice washed waste water (RWW) as the fermentation medium.Zinc oxide nanoparticles introduced during fermentation influenced growth and production. When compared to control samples, the biomass percentage was 1.5 times higher, and the fatty acid profile was improved. The induction period (IP) investigation demonstrated that zinc oxide nanoparticles provided the highest oxidation stability up to 120 days of storage while also significantly reducing autoxidation. However, the inclusion of ZnO nanoparticles increased the cetane number and calorific value. A new study found that employing β-CD encapsulated ZnO nanoparticles in microbial oil production resulted in much higher production (63.5g/L) than the control sample (42.5g/L). As a result, these nanoparticles are predicted to be useful in energy-related applications.
Cultural adaptation of the ENABLE (Educate, Nurture, Advise, Before Life Ends) as an early palliative care model among heart failure patients and caregivers in Iran: A qualitative study protocol
Authors: Mirshahi Arvin , Khanipour-Kencha Ali , Bakitas Marie , Odom J. Nicholas , Wells Rachel , Manookian Arpi
Published: March 2024

Introduction: ENABLE (Educate, Nurture, Advise, Before Life Ends) is a model of nurse-led, early palliative care that was originally developed for U.S. patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers and then adapted for patients with heart failure. ENABLE coaching topics include problem-solving, communication, advance care planning, symptom management, and self-care. The purpose of this paper is to detail a qualitative study protocol to assess the cultural acceptability of ENABLE among heart failure patients and their family caregivers in Iran.
Methods and analysis: This is a qualitative study employing a thematic analysis approach. In the first phase, the translation and validation of ENABLE model contents will be conducted using the standard forward-backward method and an expert panel. In the second phase, through the purposive sampling method and by using semi-structured interviews, approximately 45 participants including heart failure patients (n≈15), their family caregivers (n≈15), and healthcare professionals involved in their care (n≈15) will be invited to participate in one-on-one semi-structured interviews exploring three main areas: (1) the primary needs and challenges faced by individuals with heart failure and their family caregivers, (2) the extent of patients’ involvement in healthcare decision-making, and (3) participants’ preferences for content and delivery method of ENABLE. Interview audio recordings will be transcribed verbatim and data will be analyzed using Clarke and Braun thematic analysis method including 1) Familiarization with the data, 2) Generating initial codes, 3) Searching for themes, 4) Reviewing themes, 5) Defining and naming themes, and 6) Preparing the report/manuscript. Study rigor will be assessed based on Lincoln and Guba’s gold standards: credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.
Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval has been granted by Institutional Review Board at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (IR.TUMS.FNM.REC.1401.133). We expect to disseminate study findings through journal articles, conference presentations, and public and social multimedia.
Female Labor Force Participation in Bangladesh and Neighboring Indian States
Authors: Chakraborty Shankha , Siddiqui Shihab
Published: March 2024

The female labor force participation rate in South Asia, already among the lowest in the world, has been falling in several countries. In an attempt to understand the sources of this pattern, we use a decomposition method to compare the experience of Bangladesh during 1991-2011 with that of neighboring Indian states during 1987-2009. The results point to the role of structure change: changes in women's employment rate in the neighboring Indian states was driven more by changes in opportunities in the agricultural sector relative to Bangladesh. At the same time, changes beyond economic opportunity alone may have played a significant role: women's education led to increased labor force participation in Bangladesh, while the opposite was true in the Indian states.
JEL CODES: J21, J24, O35 I12, I15, Z1
Update on the taxonomy of Clavulina in China Ⅰ: description of three new species and one newly recorded species
Authors: Liu Xiangfen , Deng Peng Tao , Yan Jun , Zhang Ping
Published: March 2024

Specimens of three newly discovered species of Clavulina, and the previously described species C. thindii, were collected during field surveys in southwestern China. The specimens were used for examination of morphological characters and DNA extraction for molecular phylogenetic analyses. Phylogenetic analysis of concatenated sequences for the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region, nuclear ribosomal RNA large subunit, and the RNA polymerase II subunit B gene revealed that the three new species each formed a distinct lineage in the Clavulina clade. The samples of C. thindii from China and India formed a monophyletic lineage. The three new species are formally described here. Clavulina curva has noticeably distorted basidiomata, C. spina has uniform spines on the basidioma surface, and C. yunnanensis has brownish gray to dark black-brown stipes, with rare longitudinal corrugations and bristles. A key to known Clavulina species in China, descriptions of the macromorphology, micromorphology, and habitat for the four Clavulina species are provided.
Effects of inulin on intestinal flora and metabolism-related indicators in obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients
Authors: Gao Ting , Jiang Bo , Nian Yan , Bai Xing , Zhong Jiawen , Qin Ling , Gao Zhengzheng , Wang Hao , Li Xiaorong
Published: March 2024

Context:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, is closely associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and metabolic disturbances. In PCOS mice, dietary inulin has been demonstrated to regulate intestinal flora and inflammation. However, the efficacy of dietary inulin in clinical PCOS remains unclear.
Objective
The intestinal flora and related metabolic indexes of obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) after 3 months of inulin treatment were analyzed.
Setting and design:
To analyze the intestinal flora and related metabolic indexes in healthy controls and obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome after 3 months of inulin treatment.
Results
The results showed that dietary inulin improved sex hormone disorders, reduced BMI and WHR levels in obese women with PCOS. In addition, the inulin intervention reduced plasma TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1levels. Inulin intervention increased the abundance of Actinobacteria, Fusobacteria, Lachnospira, and Bifidobacterium, as well as decreased the ratio of F/B and the abundance of proteobacteria, Sutterella, and Enterobacter.Correlation analyses showed a strong relationship among plasma inflammatory factors, sex steroid hormones, and the intestinal flora of patients.
Conclusions
Dietary inulin may improve obese PCOS women disease through the gut flora-inflammation-steroid hormone pathway.
Role of metabolites in mediating the effect of lipidomes on rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: wu Chengjiang , Cai Xiaojie
Published: March 2024

Background
Evidence from observational studies and clinical trials suggests that lipidomes are associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, considering inherent confounding factors and the challenge of reverse causality in observational studies, the direct causal relationship between lipidomes and RA remains unknown. Therefore, we conducted mendelian randomization (MR) as well as mediation analysis to elucidate the causal relationship among lipidomes, RA, and metabolites as a mediator.
Methods
The bidirectional MR analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship of lipidomes and RA, with a focus on the role of metabolites. Instrumental variables (IVs) were used as the central methodological technique, supplemented by MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, as well as weighted mode methods.
Results
Findings from this study revealed that six lipidomes had a positive correlation with RA, while one showed a negative association. Furthermore, mediation MR analysis results revealed that undecenoylcarnitine (C11:1) served as a mediator for the effect of sterol ester (27:1/20:4) on RA and the mediation effect was calculated to be 7.98%.
Conclusions
Our study demonstrated the genetic causal effect of lipidomes on RA, emphasizing the potential mediating role of undecenoylcarnitine (C11:1) and providing insights for the clinical intervention of RA.
Spatio-Temporal Variations in Groundwater Quality of Upland Area, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh Using Interpolation Techniques
Authors: Rambabu T. , Kumar L. V. Ravi , Suribabu G. , Raghuram P. , Raju PARK
Published: March 2024

The water quality is a basic necessity in upland areas for all anthropogenic and livestock activities. At present, there is increasing pressure on groundwater for supplying treated drinking water to the public in all villages and urban areas. Increasing number of bore wells also mounting pressure on the ground water due to intensive agriculture and horticulture practices. Human interferences in water resources causes deterioration of water quality which is detrimental to human and livestock health. The present study evaluates the physico-chemical and biological parameters of groundwater in upland area of West Godavari district. A total of thirty samples from thirty villages in pre and post monsoon seasons of 2017 were collected and analyzed for pH, Electrical Conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids, Total Hardness, Calcium, Total Alkalinity, Magnesium, Chloride, Sulphate, Dissolved Oxygen and Biochemical Oxygen Demand. GIS based Inverse distance weighted (IDW) interpolation techniques are used for spatio-temporal correlation. Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated by using all physico-chemical and biological parameters to assess the quality of groundwater. WQI of 47.91 during the pre-monsoon period approves the overall quality groundwater is fit for human consumption whereas WQI of 57.67 in post monsoon season indicates the poor quality of ground water. As per the WQI ratings, 49.99% (≈ 50%) of samples during pre-monsoon and 66.66% of samples during post monsoon seasons were ranging from excellent to good in quality. GIS based interpolation techniques approve that North-West (NW) and South-East (SE) portions during pre-monsoon, South-West (SW) portions during post monsoon are in excellent (WQI is < 25) to good (WQI is in between 26–50) range. IDW discloses the spatial distribution of quality groundwater and WQI approves the potability of the groundwater. The two proven methods allow the users for informed decisions in accessing the water for several uses.
Identification of glycolysis related genes for prognosis prediction in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Chao Shuai , Liu Shiqiang , Wang Kun , Xie Mingming , Liu Beibei
Published: March 2024

Objective
Breast cancer (BC) is a malignant tumor that threatens women’s health. Studies have found that glycolysis is related to the occurrence of BC. However, there is no systematic screening of glycolysis related genes affecting the prognosis of BC.
Methods
BC-related data were downloaded, and analyzed to identify glycolysis related genes that regulate BC. The glycolysis related genes associated with BC prognosis was screened by using Cox regression analysis, and a predictive model was established. The relevant clinical data and model risk scores were analyzed. The correlation graph of the model with tumor characteristics data and survival rate was obtained.
Results
A total of seven glycolysis related genes (AK3, PGK1, SDC3, NUP43, CACNA1H, SDC1, and IL13RA1) that affect BC patients’ prognosis were authenticated, and they were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups. For overall survival rate, patients with low-risk score were higher than patients with high-risk score. The correlation analysis of risk scores and clinical data showed that the constructed model could be used to predict the prognosis of BC patients.
Conclusion
The seven glycolysis related genes can predict BC prognosis, and may provide new targets for the treatment of BC.
The association of rs7041 polymorphism with infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss in Iranian women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: hamidi hediyeh , Kheirollahi Asma , Vatannejad Akram
Published: March 2024

Background Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) stands as the most prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) is a polymorphic protein with a crucial role in vitamin D metabolism. This study aimed to examine the association of rs7041 polymorphism with PCOS, as well as infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in PCOS patients. Methods A total of 200 women diagnosed with PCOS, including 100 infertile and 100 with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss, and 100 fertile women were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were taken from these individuals, and their biochemical and hormonal profiles were assessed. Genotyping for the rs7041 polymorphism was carried out in the study population using the PCR-RFLP method. Results Genotype analysis showed that the GT genotype and the T allele of the rs7041 polymorphism were associated with an elevated risk of PCOS (OR: 2.8 95% CI [1.48–5.33], p = 0.002, and OR: 2.27 95% CI [1.2–4.28], p = 0.01, respectively). Furthermore, the GT genotype and T allele of the rs7041 polymorphism were associated with an increased risk of infertility in PCOS women (OR: 40.55 95% CI [5.34–307.7], p < 0.0001, and OR: 30.667 95% CI [4.05-232.19], p = 0.001, respectively). Conversely, no significant association was observed between genotypes and RPL in women with PCOS. LH levels were significantly higher in individuals with the T allele compared to those with the G allele. Conclusion The study results highlight a significant correlation between the rs7041 polymorphism in the VDBP gene and the risk of PCOS and infertility.
Surgical Procedures Predicting Postoperative Outcomes in Elderly Patients with non-Emergency Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Chen Guanchi , Liang Zhonglin , Cui Long
Published: March 2024

Backgroud:
Elderly patients are at an increased risk for morbidity and prolonged hospital stay with non-emergency colorectal cancer surgery. We aimed to determine which surgical procedures would be associated with postoperative morbidity or shorter postoperative hospital stay in elderly colorectal patients.
Methods:
We performed an observational study of elderly patients, older than 75 years old, treated at a single institution in Shanghai.The postoperative outcomes of our study were incidence of all complications. Odds ratios were estimated by logistic regression models. Postoperative hospital stay was evaluated by negative binomial regression model. Post-estimations were calculated.
Results:
The cohort consisted of 442 patients. Incidence of postoperative complication was 44.34%. Anastomosis ( OR 0.465; 95%CI 0.241 to 0.897; P = 0.022) was associated with lower incidence of postoperative complications. Patients with laparoscopy had decreased surgery related complications (Adjusted OR, 0.567; 95% CI, 0.331 to 0.972; P = 0.039). Patients with stoma had prolonded hospital stay (IRR 1.172; 95%CI 1.023 to 1.344; P = 0.023).
Conclusion:
Surgical procedures predict improved postoperative outcomes. Further studies would be warranted.
Investigating Safety Incidents with High-Risk Medications: Insights from the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) on Opioids, Insulins, and Anticoagulants
Authors: Alrowily Abdulrhman , Alfaraidy Khalid , Almutairi Saleh , Alamri Abdullah , Alrowily Wejdan , Abutaleb Mohammed , Zaitoun Mohammad , Sarawi Wedad , Aljead Mashael
Published: March 2024

Background
Ensuring patient safety is paramount in any healthcare system. Rising concerns about medical errors in the UK have necessitated greater focus to be placed on studying the nature of such errors, particularly those involving high-risk medications. This research aims to conduct a retrospective analysis of incidents related to patient safety in the UK, based on data from the NRLS.
Methods
This research was conducted based on the review of NRLS patient safety reports published during the period January 1st, 2015 to December 31st, 2015. NHS Improvement provided details regarding the incidents, following approval using a data-sharing agreement. In total, 1,500 incidents were analyzed, equally divided among three categories of high-risk drugs; opioids, insulin and anticoagulants. Excel features and deductive reasoning (thematic analysis) were used in the data analysis.
Results
The results showed that the insulin category had both the highest risk and the most errors compared to anticoagulants and opioids. These errors primarily resulted from issues in administering, prescribing, and dispensing drugs. Inadequate drug checks, communication difficulties among staff and with patients, and high staff workload were often linked to these errors.
Conclusion
This study confirms that the NRLS database is a valuable source of data, while the suggestions put forth, based on these results, could contribute to the formulation of measures that diminish the occurrence of errors related to high-risk drugs in healthcare settings. Information technology should enhance medication safety by tracking the processing of medication use.
BIRC5 expression correlated with immunosuppressive phenotype and predicted inferior response to immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Shuo , Liu Xiaozhen , Mao Shiqi , Shao ChuChu , Li Xuefei , Zhao Chao , Wang Yan , Fang Qiyu , Chen Bin , Wu Fengying , Chen Xiaoxia , Ren Shengxiang , Chen Xiaohui , Jia Yu
Published: March 2024

Background
Considering the pivotal role of BIRC5 in tumorigenesis, recurrence, and chemoresistance, this study aimed to investigate its impact on the clinical and tumor microenvironmental features of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), together with its predictive and prognostic values.
Methods
Clinical and transcriptomic data of 535 LUAD samples, 59 normal lung, and 54 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) received immune checkpoint blockades (ICB) were analyzed. Deconvolution analysis was conducted to uncover the relationship between tumor microenvironmental features and BIRC5 expression level. The predictive and prognostic values of BIRC5 was also evaluated with Log-rank test and Cox regression analysis.
Results
LUAD had a significantly higher BIRC5 expression level than normal lung tissues. The elevated BIRC5 expression was markedly associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. Transcriptomic and single-cell sequencing data analysis revealed that tumors with high BIRC5 expression was correlated with multiple pathways’ enrichment. Deconvolution analysis indicated a negative correlation between BIRC5 expression and infiltration levels of CD8 + T cells, dendritic cells, and NK cells in LUAD, but a positive correlation was observed between BIRC5 expression and regulatory T cells (Tregs) infiltrations. Importantly, NSCLC patients received ICB with high BIRC5 expression had dramatically shorter progression-free (1.2 vs. 4.5 months; P = 0.012) and overall survival (3.1 vs. 12.7 months; P = 0.005) than those with low BIRC5 expression.
Conclusions
These findings suggested that high BIRC5 expression was associated with DNA damage/repair, cell invasion and proliferation related pathways enrichment and increased Tregs infiltration, which would result in inferior outcomes in NSCLC received ICB.
Monitoring of Alizarin Red S (an environmental toxic dye) Using Cu-Ni Bimetallic Hybrid Nanoparticles Synthesized with Various Rations
Authors: Nawaz Saleem , Rahman Latif ur , Shah Luqman Ali , Javed Fatima , Ullah Faheem , Rehman Noor , Khan Abdullah , Salman Syed Muhammad
Published: March 2024

The development of novel nanomaterials opens the windows of research in several areas. However, its optimal synthesis and characterization is a challenging task for its performance in specific fields of use. Cu-Ni bimetallic hybrid alloy nanoparticles were manufactured by reinforcing Cu with Ni using ethylene glycol as a solvent as well as a reducing agent, and polyvinyl pyrrolidon as a fabrication material, for sensing application. UV-Vis spectroscopy, steady-state fluorescence, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) techniques were used for the confirmation and morphological studies of synthesized nanoparticles. Results display that Cu portrays enhanced characteristics. SEM shows outstanding topographic properties for Cu-Ni bimetallic hybrid nanoparticles. A composite electrode of Cu-Ni/PVP/GCE (Cu-Ni NPs based electrochemical sensor) is developed by coating Cu-Ni (3:1) hybrid nanoparticles embedded in polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) at the surface of cleaned Glassy Carbon Electrode (GCE). The lowest possible concentration of Alzarin Red S (0.12 µM) was detected by using Cu-Ni bimetallic hybrid nanoparticles based electrochemical sensor.
Association of TM6SF2 (E167K) with NAFLD in adult Greek people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)
Authors: Meritsi Angeliki , Rapti Stamatia , Latsou Dimitra , Kousis Panagiotis , Zoumpoulis Pavlos , Thanopoulou Anastasia
Published: March 2024

Purpose: TM6SF2 (E167K) variant is considered as one of the most important determinants of inter-individual and ethnicity-related differences in hepatic fat content and NAFLD progression. We aimed to investigate TM6SF2 genotype frequency and its association with Hepatic Steatosis (HS) and Fibrosis (HF) in adult Greek individuals with established T2DM.
Methods: 120 consecutive subjects with T2DM attending the Diabetic Outpatient Clinic at an Academic Hospital in Athens, Greece included in our study. All had demographic, clinical and biochemical data recorded. HS was estimated with Proton Density Fat Fraction Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI- PDFF) and defined as percentage of total liver fat divided by liver volume. HS of >5% was considered abnormal. HF was estimated with FibroTest (FIBROMAXTM) and Liver Siffness Measurements (LSM) by using Two Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography (2D SWE, Supersonic Image, Aix-en-Provence, France). TM6SF2 (E167K) was evaluated by standard molecular techniques.
Results: 95 subjects had HS >5% and only 16 had LSM >8.0kPa.TM6SF2(E167K) GG/GA/AA genotype frequencies were 87.5%, 10.83% and 1.67%. There was no association between TM6SF2(E167K) and any liver or lipid biochemical parameter estimated or HS. No correlation was found between TM6SF2 (E167K) and FibroTest (p=0.346) or LSM (SWE) (p=0.232).
Conclusion: In conclusion, the role of TM6SF2 (E167K) remains controversial in our specific study population as no association with HS or HF was identified although its frequency in our population was significant (12.5% vs 7% in Europe).
Expression Profiles of Claudin Gene Family Members in Patients with Recurrent Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stones
Authors: Uysal Umit , Mogul Cansu Baris , Caner Vildan , Tuncay Omer Levent
Published: March 2024

OBJECTİVES: It is thought that genetic variations observed in members of the Claudin (CLDN) gene family may be responsible for the pathogenesis of recurrent kidney stone disease. In this study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the expression profiles of CLDN gene family members responsible for the mechanism of stone formation in patients with recurrent calcium oxalate stones and in a control group without a history of renal stones.
METHODS: Nineteen patients with recurrent calcium oxalate renal calculi who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy and 21 control patients without renal calculi who underwent surgery for other reasons were included in the study. Biopsy samples were taken from the intact renal parenchymal tissue consistent with computerized tomography images of all individuals. Total RNA was isolated from biopsy samples and expression profiles of target genes (Claudin 1-4, 7, 8, 10, 14, 16, 18, 19) were determined by real-time PCR(Polymerase Chain Reaction).
RESULTS: It was determined that CLDN1 gene expression in patients with recurrent calcium oxalate kidney stones was approximately 4 times higher than in the control group, this difference was significant (p<0.050). CLDN1 expression was also strongly positively correlated with CLDN4 (r=0.642), CLDN7 (r=0.753) and CLDN14 (r=0.651)
CONCLUSIONS: We thought that CLDN1 overexpression might play a role in the pathogenesis of recurrent calcium oxalate stone formation. CLDN1 together with CLDN2, CLDN4, CLDN7, and CLDN14 are also probably responsible for this pathogenesis. More studies are needed on CLDN gene family members responsible for the pathogenesis of recurrent calcium oxalate kidney stones
Effect of low energy ion beam irradiation on the structural and optical properties of flexible PVA/CuO nano composite films
Authors: Altuijri Reem , Abdel-Hamid M. M. , Ahmed Ali , Abdel-Hamid H. M. , Ezzeldian Mohammed
Published: March 2024

The solution casting production process was used to synthesis the composite PVA/CuO that is consisting of copper oxide nanoparticle (CuONP) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for use in optoelectronic. The PVA/CuO composite were then irradiated with argon fluences of 3x1017, 6x1017, and 9x1017 ions.cm− 2 by cold cathode ion source. The XRD, FTIR, and UV/Vis are employed to investigate the structural, functional group, and optical impacts of PVA/CuO. In addition, the dispersion properties of the investigated films were calculated using the Wemple and Di-Domenico method, which led to the determination of various optical parameters. Pure and irradiated films were estimated for their optical susceptibility and refractive index. At the fluence of 6x1017 ions.cm− 2, the single oscillator energy Eo rises from 3.25 eV for the un-irradiated film to 3.89 eV and the dispersion energy Ed rises from 0.098 eV to 0.26 eV. Therefore, the results reveal that irradiated PVA/CuO composite are more applicable for optoelectronics.
Combining multiple data to invert the rupture process of the Wenchuan, China, Earthquake
Authors: Yin Deyu
Published: March 2024

A reasonable three-dimensional complex fault model was established by comprehensively considering the three-dimensional seismic structure model, aftershock distribution, and surface rupture investigation. Two possible rupture modes were adopted, and based on parallel non negative least squares method and multi time window technology, combined with far-field, near-field, GPS, and surface rupture data, the precise rupture process of the Wenchuan earthquake was inverted, and a reasonable rupture mode was provided. The results are as follows: (1) The occurrence of bilateral rupture at the intersection of the Beichuan fault and the Xiaoyudong fault is more in line with the actual situation for the Wenchuan earthquake. When the bilateral rupture occurs, dislocations that match the observed surface rupture are generated in the near surface area from Hongkou to Yingxiu. The synthetic records amplitude of the station in the near field behind the rupture direction is closer to the observation record. (2) The joint inversion results show that the duration of the Wenchuan earthquake rupture reached 100s, and the released seismic moment was 1.058×1021N·m. There are 5 asperities on the fault plane, indicating that this earthquake is composed of at least 5 subevents. The slip is mainly distributed on the Beichuan Fault, indicating that the Beichuan Fault is the main rupture fault.
What are the stumbling blocks to shared prosperity in China
Authors: Guo Jiahong , Yang Lidan , CAO Shixiong
Published: March 2024

statement: Sharing prosperity is a goal of human society, but unreasonable income distributions develop that lead to social unrest and regime change. However, around the world, a small number of people have begun to own most of society’s wealth. China, the world's largest socialist country, is supposed to fight for the rights of the proletariat, but has also been suffering from an increasingly serious wealth inequality. We studied the available income data for Chinese provinces (from 2003 to 2019) and in contrast with previous research, found that the wealth gap depended on how the inequality index was calculated and on differences in regional characteristics. Our results provide insights that will benefit other countries plagued by wealth inequality.
Automatic microtube capper/decapper system for clinical examinations and biological experiments
Authors: Jinno Makoto , Nonoyama Ryosuke
Published: March 2024

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is an effective testing method for diagnosing infectious diseases, and it has been the primary testing method during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. PCR tests (from specimen collection to result acquisition) involve a pretreatment process, ribonucleic acid extraction, and real-time PCR testing. From the perspective of infection and contamination risks, there is significance in automating the pretreatment process, where centrifuge tubes, cryopreservation tubes, and microtubes are used. Many automated systems have been designed for centrifuge tubes with screw-type caps; however, few systems have been designed for microtubes with press-type caps. Capper/decapper systems for press-type caps have been proposed; however, there are no small microtube cappers that are compatible with a wide range of microtubes. Thus, in this study, we developed a microtube capper/decapper system that can be used with a wide variety of microtubes. First, to clarify the required specifications for the microtube capper/decapper system, the shapes and opening/closing forces of 15 types of microtubes from 10 manufactures were measured. Then, conceptual, basic, and control system design processes were performed based on the identified requirements. Finally, a prototype model of the proposed microtube capper/decapper system was developed, and verification experiments were performed. The results confirmed that the proposed system can open and close the caps of 15 different types microtubes. Thus, the proposed system can be used in the pretreatment process of PCR tests. We also believe that the proposed system can be used to automate similar tasks in a wide range of clinical examinations and biological experiments.
Complete series method (CSM): a convenient method to reduce daily heterogeneity when evaluating the regeneration time (RT) of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)
Authors: Lugenge Aidi Galus , Odufuwa Olukayode G. , Mseti Jilly Jackson , Swai Johnson Kyeba , Skovmand Ole , Moore Sarah Jane
Published: March 2024

Background: "Regeneration time" (RT), denotes the time required to obtain a stable mortality rate for mosquitoes exposed to insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) after three consecutive washes of a net in a day. The RT informs the wash interval of ITNs used to artificially age ITNs to simulate their lifetime performance under user conditions (20 washes). RT was estimated following World Health Organization (WHO) longitudinal method (LM) bioassay procedures. However, longitudinal evaluation may introduce daily heterogeneity due to mosquito batch variability, complicating RT determination. To overcome this, nets at each stage of regeneration (i.e., 1, 2, 3, 5 &7 days post wash) were prepared in advance and refrigerated, then a complete regeneration series was tested with a single mosquito batch on one testing day over 4 days (N=1 per timepoint /day). This study validated the complete series method (CSM) against the LM.
Methods: The RT of two incorporated alpha-cypermethrin and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and one incorporated permethrin with PBO ITNs were determined using laboratory-reared resistant Anopheles arabiensis under standard laboratory conditions. LM methods and CSM were compared in two experiments 1) refrigerated nets acclimatized for two hours (Test 1), and 2) refrigerated nets acclimatized for three hours (Test 2). Four replicates per day of regeneration were tested per ITN product with 50 mosquitoes exposed per replicate to give an equivalent sample size to that of LM. The RTs and overall heterogeneity from these methods were compared descriptively.
Results: The RT measured by the CSM showed 100% agreement with that measured by LM. The intra-method variability for unwashed pieces was minimal, with variance of 1.26 for CSM and 1.18 for LM. For unwashed nets LM had substantially greater variance, ratio of LM:CSM was 2.66 in test one and 2.49 in test two. The magnitude of mortality measured in bioassays depended on sample acclimation after refrigeration.
Conclusion
The CSM is a convenient method for determining the regeneration times of ITNs that are prepared in advance, and a complete series of samples is removed from the fridge, defrosted and evaluated on a single day allowing easy facility scheduling and reduced daily heterogeneity. The CSM gave comparable estimates of regeneration time as the LM.
Network pharmacology analysis of Huangqi reveals quercetin as a therapeutic for allergic rhinitis via the RELA-regulated IFNG/IRF1 axis response
Authors: Deng Yongjun , Shen Limin , Zhu Huilan , Zhou Yanying , Hu Xin
Published: March 2024

Despite the complexity of allergic rhinitis (AR) pathogenesis, no FDA-approved drug has been developed to achieve optimal therapeutic results. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has proven advantageous in AR therapy. The present study aimed to explore the potential bioactive components of Hedysarum Multijugum Maxim (Radix Astragali or Huangqi) in the treatment of AR by network pharmacology and experimental approaches. The bioactive components of Huangqi were identified and used for predicting potential therapeutic target genes. Genes related to AR were retrieved from GeneCard and Disgenet and merged with the targets of the bioactive components of Huangqi to obtain key target genes used for generating the "bioactive compound-target gene" pharmacological network. Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR mouse model was established to assess the anti-AR effect of Huangqi and its hub ingredient in AR, quercetin (QUE). We identified 13 active ingredients of Huangqi that could target 67 AR pathogenesis-related genes. In addition, QUE was detected as the bioactive component targeting the highest number of AR-related genes. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed that IFNG, IRF1, JUN, RELA, and NFKBIA were important targets of QUE in AR treatment. Experimentally, we demonstrated that Huangqi and QUE counteracted AR in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice by regulating the IFNG/IRF1 signaling via NF-κB pathway in AR mice. This study sheds light on efficacious constituents, potential targets, and molecular mechanisms of Huangqi in treating AR. Such knowledge is deemed crucial in advancing the development of tailored therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing AR.
3D printing and biological study of PEEK/Alginate/CNT composite bone scaffolds
Authors: Fatemi Afshin , Biglari Farid Reza
Published: March 2024

Developing novel scaffold structures that combine biological qualities with suitable strength and mechanical properties is a major goal in bone tissue engineering. In this study, bone scaffolds are 3D printed using polyether ether ketone (PEEK) in three distinct porous structures. To improve the biological properties of scaffolds, 3D printed structures were coated with alginate/carbon nanotube (CNT) using freeze-drying method. After construction, biological properties including biocompatibility and bioactivity were determined in simulated body fluid (SBF). Results of FESEM analysis showed 3D printed PEEK scaffolds, have porous, uniform and interconnected structure with appropriate pore size in the range of 321–378 µm. EDS and XRD evaluations demonstrated precipitation of hydroxyapatite (HA) and bioactive calcium phosphate (Ca-P) on scaffold surface which proves bioactivity of scaffolds. To characterize cell biocompatibility, an MTT assay was carried out. The scaffolds exposed high cell viability around 97% and no significant toxicity was observed. 3D printed PEEK scaffold coated with Alginate/0.3%wt CNT was found with feasible microstructure, bioactivity and biocompatibility characteristics for bone tissue regeneration.
Mechanobiological Optimization of Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Josephson Timothy O. , Morgan Elise F.
Published: March 2024

Synthetic bone graft scaffolds aim to generate new bone tissue and alleviate the limitations of autografts and allografts. To meet that aim, it is essential to have a design approach able to generate scaffold architectures that will promote bone formation. Here we present an efficient and flexible topology-varying design optimization method, the "mixed-topology" approach, that generates new designs from a set of starting structures. This approach was used with objective functions focusing on improving the scaffold's local mechanical microenvironments to mechanobiologically promote bone formation within the scaffold and constraints to ensure manufacturability and achieve desired macroscale properties. The results demonstrate that this approach can succesfully generate scaffold designs with improved microenvironments, taking into account different combinations of relevant stimuli and constraints.
Drivers of Private Equity Activity across Europe: An East-West Comparison
Authors: Kočenda Evžen , Rai Shivendra
Published: March 2024

We investigate the key macroeconomic and institutional determinants of fundraising and investment activities and compare them across Europe, covering 13 Central and Eastern European (CEE) and 16 Western European (WE) countries. Five macroeconomic variables and nineteen institutional variables are selected. These variables are studied using panel data analysis with fixed effects and random effects models over an eleven-year observation period (2010–2020). Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) is applied to select the key variables. Our results suggest that macroeconomic variables have no significant impact on fundraising and investment activity in either region. Investment activity is a significant driver of fundraising across Europe. Similarly, fundraising and divestment activity are significant drivers of investments across Europe. Institutional variables, however, affect fundraising and investment activity differently. While investment freedom has a significant effect on funds raised in the WE and CEE countries, government integrity and trade freedom are both significant determinants of investments in both European regions. In addition, the results demonstrate that, in contrast to the WE region, fundraising in the CEE region is not country specific.
JEL Classifications: C11, C23, C52, E22, G15, G24, G28, O16
Effect and mechanism of saikosaponin A on mouse myeloid-derived suppressor cells
Authors: Qin Yahan , Lei Fan , Qi Xiaotian , Zhang Ke , Cui Zhao , Fu Xiaoyan , Liu Yanqing , Peng Meiyu
Published: March 2024

Objective
To investigate the effect and mechanism of saikosaponin A (SSA) on mouse myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs).
Methods
In vitro: Bone marrow cells (BMC) isolated from normal mouse were treated with Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and SSA for 96 h, flow cytometer (FCM) detected the effect of SSA on differentiation of mouse MDSCs. MDSCs were treated with SSA, FCM detected the effect of SSA on apoptosis, LXRα expression, ROS, ARG-1, p-STAT1 and p-NF-κB p65 expression levels. RT-qPCR detected the LXRα and ARG-1 mRNA expression. In vivo: After SSA gavage (ig) and intraperitoneal injection (ip) treatment, FCM detected the proportion of immune cells (T cells, B cells, NK cells, monocytes/macrophages and MDSCs) in the spleen of mice.
Results
In vitro, SSA could up-regulate the LXRα expression of MDSCs, reduce differentiation of M-MDSCs, induce early apoptosis and decrease the ROS and ARG-1 expression of MDSCs, SSA inhibits STAT1 and NF-κB signaling pathways. In vivo, compared with the control group, SSA up-regulated the proportion of splenic T cells, CD8+T cells and mononuclear/macrophage cells, and decreased the proportion of MDSCs in SSA ip group; SSA up-regulated the proportion of splenic CD8+T cells, B cells and mononuclear/macrophage cells, while decreased the proportion of splenic CD4+T cells and MDSCs in the SSA ig group.
Conclusion
SSA could regulate differentiation, induce apoptosis of MDSCs, and inhibit their immunosuppressive function, which may be associated with the up-regulation of LXRα expression in MDSCs by SSA. These results may provide a new theoretical basis for the clinical application of SSA.
Tax Policy with Heterogeneous Agents, Corruption and Tax Evasion in Developing Countries : case of Cameroon
Authors: Signe Franck Xavier
Published: March 2024

This article quantitatively assesses the role of tax evasion and corruption in the conduct of fiscal policy in developing countries such as Cameroon. Using Bayesian estimation techniques via the SSJ (Sequence Space Jacobian) method, we estimate two heterogeneous agent models (HANK model), one with corruption and tax evasion and another without corruption and tax evasion. The results show that corruption and tax evasion increase inequality, hinder economic growth by slowing investment, reducing productivity and increasing the cost of economic activity, discourage investment, leading to a fall in economic activity and employment, and increase public debt.
JEL Classification E21, E31, E40, E50, E52, E62