bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The acceptability of cervical electrical impedance spectroscopy: A mixed methods study examining women’s experiences of a novel test to predict preterm birth
Authors: Stern Victoria , Jones Georgina L. , Senbeto Sarah , Anumba Dilly
Published: March 2022

Background
Reducing the rate of preterm birth is a cornerstone of global efforts to address child mortality. Existing tests offer imperfect prediction, particularly for universal screening. Cervical electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a novel technique to quantify the ripening changes which precede labour. Mid-trimester EIS measurements have been shown to accurately predict preterm birth in asymptomatic women. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the acceptability of cervical EIS to low and high-risk women undergoing screening during a larger prospective trial.
Methods
In this parallel convergent mixed methods study, 40 women completed questionnaires before and after screening tests (EIS, cervical length measurement and fetal fibronectin quantification). Quantitative outcomes were anxiety levels before and after screening (Spielberger State Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI-6), pain (Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire) and ratings of EIS device appearance and test acceptability (visual analogue scales). Twenty-one women (11 high-risk, 10 low-risk) also attended a semi-structured qualitative interview. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, then thematic analysis was performed. A convergence coding matrix was constructed to enable triangulation of quantitative and qualitative results.
Results
High risk women demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety following screening (mean STAI-6 score 34.5 vs. 29.0, p = 0.002). A similar trend was observed among low-risk participants. Ratings of pain, EIS device appearance and procedural acceptability did not differ between groups. Mean pain ratings were low (visual analogue scale 0.97 and 1.01), comparing favourably to published evaluations of conventional screening tests. Qualitative analysis provided insight into both the physical consequences and emotional experiences of screening. Additional determinants of the screening experience included device design, pre-existing perspectives on intimate examination, attitudes to knowledge in pregnancy and interaction with clinical staff. Finally, a range of practical considerations regarding wider use of EIS were identified, with valuable complementary detail regarding acceptability for use in antenatal care.
Conclusions
Cervical EIS is well tolerated and acceptable to both low and high-risk women. These results provide useful insights to inform the design of future study and screening protocols
Cross-sectional Study on the Association Between Hyperuricemia and Other Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Guan Baosheng , Chen Jiaxin , Lan Rongyu , Bai Xue , Zhu Liling , Yao Songpo , Song Yang , Yin Xianglin , Niu Xiaoqing , Qiu Hongbin
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disease caused by overproduction and/or underexcretion of serum uric acid (SUA). The study was conducted to find the association between Hyperuricemia and hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Methods: A total of 1632 people aged older than 18 years were selected through cluster random sampling in 2015 from two hospitals in Qiqihar, China. Epidemiological investigations were conducted to determine SUA, blood pressure, blood lipids, blood glucose and other indicators. Statistical comparisons of the results were evaluated by using t test, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis with SPSS 19.0. Results: The prevalence of HUA, hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia were 21.68%, 37.26%, 10.98% and 57.45% in the male population and 1.34%, 19.91%, 4.59% and 40.38% in the female population, respectively. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of HUA, hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia between males and females (p＜0.001). Using the lowest SUA range as a reference group, the risk of hyperlipidemia increased with SUA levels in population (Q2: OR=1.570, p=0.003; Q3: OR=2.049, p＜0.001; Q4: OR=3.519, p＜0.001). (This trend persisted after adjusting for BMI, sex and age, Q2: OR=1.632, p=0.002; Q3: OR=2.091, p＜0.001; Q4: OR=3.719, p＜0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the levels of SUA in the context of diabetes and hypertension, not even been adjusted. Conclusion: The level of SUA is associated with hyperlipidemia. It may be useful to maintain normal SUA level in the prevention and treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Comparison of Three Modelling Frameworks for Aquatic Ecosystems: Practical Aspects and Applicability
Authors: Fábián Virág Adrienn , Patonai Katalin
Published: March 2022

Freshwater ecosystems are under multiple stressors and it is crucial to find methods to better describe, manage, and sustain aquatic ecosystems. Ecosystem modelling has become an important tool in integrating trophic relationships into food webs, assessing important nodes using network analysis, and making predictions via simulations. Fortunately, several modelling techniques exist, but the question is which approach is relevant and applicable when?
In this study, we compare three modelling frameworks (Ecopath, Loop Analysis in R, STELLA software) using a case study of a small aquatic network (8 nodes). The choice of framework depends on the research question and data availability. We approach this topic from a methodological aspect by describing the data requirements and by comparing the applicability and limitations of each modelling approach. Each modelling framework has its specific focus, but some functionalities and outcomes can be compared. Predictions of Ecopath’s Mixed Trophic Impact plot and the Loop Analysis models are in agreement for groups at higher trophic levels, but not for lower trophic levels. This suggests that further comparisons are needed of networks of varying resolution and size. Generally, when data are limiting, loop analysis can provide qualitative predictions, while the other two methods provide quantitative results, yet rely on more data.
Public perceptions about the invasive plant pampas grass, Cortaderia selloana
Authors: Almeida Mónica Roldão , Marchante Elizabete , Marchante Hélia
Published: March 2022

Cortaderia selloana, also known as pampas grass, is native to the Pampas region in South America. Nowadays, it is a widespread invasive plant in several regions of the World, including the south of the Atlantic Arc in Europe, where it has been used as an ornamental species. As such, citizens may play an important role in the dissemination of this invasive species, but on the other hand, if they are aware of its invasive behavior, can contribute to its control and prevent spread. An online survey was performed to better understand the perception and knowledge of Portuguese and Spanish citizens about pampas grass. 486 and 839 citizens answered the questionnaire in Portugal (PT) and Spain (ES), respectively. In general, most respondents were between 41 and 64 years old, mostly women in Portugal and equally women and men in Spain, with higher education and working mostly in the services sector. The majority of respondents in both countries recognized the plant, know it is invasive and many were able to name it, but fewer were aware of the legislation that limits its use, and most were not able to identify particular characteristics of the species. Respondents' occupation in PT and education in ES seem to influence their knowledge and perception about pampas grass. Our results confirm that education and raising awareness of citizens regarding invasive species is of the utmost importance so that citizens can be part of the solution and not the problem, especially when regarding ornamental species like pampas grass.
Use Of Online Structured Oral Examinations For Postgraduate Specialist And Subspecialist Certification Examinations During The COVID-19 Pandemic In South Africa
Authors: Burch Vanessa C. , McGuire Jessica K. , Mbouaffou Francis , Senkubuge Flavia , Sathekge Mike , Buch Eric , Fagan Johannes J.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic prevented many medical specialist programmes across the world from conducting certification examinations. However, the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), which is responsible for conducting all specialist and sub-specialist certification examinations in South Africa, continued conducting examinations despite the pandemic.Objectives: The study was conducted to determine the success and challenges of conducting SOEs using Zoom, with a special focus on acceptability of this examination format to candidates.Method: The CMSA hosted 2933 candidates undertaking examinations for 95 diploma, specialist and sub-specialist qualifications. Of these, 2176 candidates participated in examinations requiring SOEs which amounted to 7226 individual Zoom calls. A survey was conducted during the first cycle of examinations in 2020 to assess the acceptability of the examination format to candidates.Results: Pass rates ranged from 82% to 96% for the respective qualifications across two examination cycles. The overall pass rate for these 2 examination cycles was higher than that of the previous 6 examination cycles for the CMSA. The majority of 542 candidates who completed the survey felt that it was a fair examination method that tested their clinical reasoning and insight appropriately. They also felt that the case scenarios were of adequate complexity, and that the material was well presented. Conclusion: This ambitious undertaking has demonstrated that virtual, case-based SOEs are a feasible and acceptable examination option. It is anticipated that the positive outcome of this study, the significant time and cost savings to candidates, examiners and the organization will motivate member colleges to support the ongoing use of virtual SOEs as part of the composite examination package.
Nitrogen deposition changes the keystone taxa of soil microorganisms and indirectly affects plant aboveground biomass in desert steppe regions
Authors: He Ye , Hong Mei , Xu Xuehui , Liang Zhiwei , Jiang Na , Tu Nare , Wu Zhendan
Published: March 2022

Aims Nitrogen (N) deposition is an important component of global change and threatens terrestrial biodiversity. In past decades, the response of the relationship between plants and soil microbes to N deposition has attracted considerable attention. Keystone microbial taxa have been proven to provide nutrients for specific plant growth, especially in nutrient-poor desert steppe ecosystems. However, the effects of N deposition on plant and soil microbial community interactions in desert steppe regions remain poorly understood. Methods To investigate these effects, a six-year N-addition field experiment was conducted in a Stipa breviflora desert steppe in Inner Mongolia, Northwest China. Four N treatment levels (N0, N1, N2, and N3, corresponding to 0, 30, 50, and 100 kg N ha-1 yr-1, respectively) were applied to simulate atmospheric N deposition. Results The results showed that (1) after the six-year N deposition simulation, the plant aboveground biomass did not increase, but the plant community structure changed; (2) in desert steppes, the relationship between microorganism communities and Neopallasia pectinata was strengthened by N addition, while that between microorganism communities and S. breviflora was simplified; and (3) N deposition indirectly affected the plant biomass in desert grasslands, mainly along key-stone microbial taxa pathways. Conclusions Together, these results suggest that N deposition can alter plant community structures by affecting the relationships between plants and soil microorganisms in desert steppes. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the effects of atmospheric N deposition on the ecological health and function of desert steppes.
Effect of Trophectoderm Biopsy for PGT-A on Live Birth Rate per Embryo in Good Prognosis Patients
Authors: Awadalla Michael S , Agarwal Ravi , Ho Jacqueline R , McGinnis Lynda K , Ahmady Ali
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To determine if blastocyst trophectoderm biopsy for PGT-A is associated with an increased rate of live birth per embryo in good prognosis IVF patients at a single center.Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of good prognosis embryo transfer cycles at a single center from 1/1/2017 through 12/31/2019. We evaluated the rate of live birh per embryo with and without PGT-A for transfer of embryos in two groups of good prognosis patients: embryos from donor oocytes and embryos from autologous oocytes with maternal age less than 35 years at oocyte retrieval. 2-sided Fisher’s exact tests were used for comparisons between groups.Results: After transfer of embryos created from donor oocytes the live birth rate per euploid embryo was 70.6% (24/34) compared to 34.3% (35/102) for untested embryos for a rate difference of 36.3% (95% CI 18.4-54.1%, p < 0.01). After transfer of embros created from autologous oocytes with maternal age less than 35 years at oocyte retrieval the live birth rate per euploid embryo was 70.0% (49/70) compared to 52.5% (53/101) for untested embryos for a rate difference of 17.5% (95% CI 3.0-32.0%, p = 0.03).Conclusion: In good prognosis patients at our center the live birth rate per euploid blastocyst was higher than for untested blastocysts.
Estimation of site response function using Nakamura technique: A case study from Kumaun Himalaya.
Authors: PANDEY AUCHITYA KUMAR , Joshi Santosh , Upadhyay Rajeev , Pant Charu C. , Gupta Arun Kumar
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study is accomplished by utilizing the H/V spectral ratio method (Nakamura technique) to investigate the site response at fifteen seismic site stations. Regarding this method, some significant local site parameters such as the fundamental frequencies f 0 of soft sediments, peak amplitudes A 0 of corresponding H/V spectral ratios, spectrum amplitude, and spectrum rotation were computed over fifteen seismic stations in the study area. Microtremor data of fifteen seismic stations were utilized for site response. The fundamental frequency response varies from 0.67 to 8.10 Hz within the study area. Resulting from this analysis, the fundamental frequency response is low in and around the MUN, KLT seismic station. Similarly, the peak amplification at these seismic sites is found to be in the range of 2-4. Further, the contour map is prepared with the help of fundamental frequency response values obtained from the H/V curve to know the hazardous areas of the study region. Also, obtained H/V results were verified by comparing with SESAME guidelines condition of the study area. Spectrum rotation and spectrum amplitude analysis were carried out to know the characteristic of H/V with respect to azimuth and frequency in the sedimentary soil.
Validation Of Kyoto Classification Of Gastritis On Magnetic Controlled Capsule Endoscope
Authors: Xi Sun , Liu Jing , Lili Wu , Ming Wang , Zhiqiang Wang , Peng Jin , Li Tingting , Li Jun
Published: March 2022

Backgrounds: Previous studies showed that Kyoto classification of gastritis could accurately predict H. pylori infection status on conventional gastroscope. The aim of this study was to testify whether Kyoto classification of gastritis applies well on magnetic controlled capsule endoscopy (MCCE).Methods: This study included two phases, both of which were basically a group of diagnostic tests. In phase one which included 35 participants who had undergone both conventional gastroscope and MCCE, we testified whether major findings documented in Kyoto classification of gastritis could be well recognized on MCCE. Then, in phase two, we consecutively recruited 227 participants who had under gone both MCCE and urea breath test (UBT). The diagnosis of H. pylori infection status was independently made by 2 physicians who were blinded to UBT results and well versed in Kyoto classification of gastritis after reviewing MCCE images. Results: In phase one, all of the 10 findings selected from Kyoto classification of gastritis could be well recognized on MCCE, when findings on conventional gastroscope were used as the gold standard, the overall diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were 96.6%, 84,7% and 100.0% respectively. In phase two, MCCE’s overall diagnostic accuracy on H. pylori infection status was 80.2%. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) for current-infection were 89.4%, 90.1% and 77.1 respectively. Major specific findings were mucosal swelling and spotty redness for current infection, regular arrangement of collecting venules (RAC), streak redness, fundic gland polyp (FGP) for non-infection, and map redness for past-infection.Conclusions: Kyoto classification of gastritis applied well on MCCE. H. pylori infection status could be accurately assessed on MCCE.
Circulating Osteocalcin is Associated with Time in range and other Metrics Assessed by Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Jun , Wei Yinghua , Zang Pu , Wang Wei , Feng Zhouqin , Yuan Yanyu , Zhou Hui , Zhang Zhen , Lei Haiyan , Yang Xinyi , Lu Bin , Shao Jiaqing , liu jun
Published: March 2022

Background:Osteocalcin is a sort of protein secreted by osteoblast exclusively，and new observations have verified that glucose balance can be modulated by it in some ways. TIR has attracted more and more attention as an emerging blood glucose evaluation index. In this study, the association between TIR and the level of circulating osteocalcin was investigated in type 2 diabetes.METHODS376 patients with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in our trail, all of them performed three consecutive days of monitoring. And they were divided into four groups on account of the quartile of osteocalcin. TIR, Time below range(TBR）, Time above range(TAR) and measures of glycemic variability (GV) were assessed for analysing. After a 100g standard steamed bread meal, blood glucose (Glu0h Glu0.5h, Glu1h, Glu2h, GLu3h), C-peptide (Cp0h, Cp0.5h, Cp1h, Cp2h, Cp3h), serum insulin (INS0h, INS0.5h, INS1h, INS2h, INS3h) concentrations at different time points were obtained. HOMA-IS, HOMA-β was calculated to evaluate insulin sensitivity and insulin secreting of the participants.RESULTSTIR increased significantly as the osteocalcin level increased between groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in gender composition, age, weight, BMI, diabetes duration, K+, Ca+, Creatinine, blood pressure among groups (respectively, p>0.05). Osteocalcin had positive correlation with TIR (r=0.227, P<0.001), while a negative correlation was presented in osteocalcin and TAR (-0.229, P< 0.001). Likewise, osteocalcin was negatively correlated with INS0h, INS0.5h, fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose at any time point after intaking of a standard meal.Meanwhile, osteocalcin had a negative correlation with the majority of GV indexes including standard deviation (SD), mean blood glouse (MBG), mean of daily differences (MODD), average daily danger range (ADDR). Multiple stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that osteocalcin was an independent contributor of TIR, TAR, and HOMA-IS.CONCLUSIONSCirculating osteocalcin has a positive correlation with TIR, and is an protective factor of TIR and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic patients.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel 2-Acetylphenol-Rivastigmine Hybrids as Potential Multifunctional Agents for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Authors: Deng Cong , Mi Jing , Zhou Yi , Li Xinjuan , Liu Zhengwei , sang zhipei , Li Hui
Published: March 2022

Herein, a series of 2-acetylphenol-rivastigmine hybrids were rationally designed as multifunctional agents for the treatment of AD through MTDLs strategy. The biological activity in vitro showed that compound 3c was a pseudo-irreversible and selective huAChE inhibitor ( IC50 = 8.7 µM). Compound 3c also showed potent MAO-B inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 2.9 µM. Moreover, compound 3c displayed selective metal chelation property, favourable drug-like property and good blood brain barrier permeability in vitro. Furthermore, compound 3c was a significant antioxidant with ORAC value of 1.2 eq and showed significant neuroprotective effect on H2O2-induced PC12 cells injury. Thus, compound 3c was a promising multifunctional agent for the treatment of AD.
Convalescent Plasma Treatment for SARS-CoV-2 Infected High-risk Patients - a Matched Pair Analysis to the LEOSS Cohort
Authors: Freise Noemi F. , Gliga Smaranda , Fischer Johannes , Lübke Nadine , Lutterbeck Matthias , Schöler Miriam , Bölke Edwin , Orth Hans M. , Feldt Torsten , Roemmele Christoph , Wilke Dominik , Schneider Jochen , Wille Kai , Hohmann Christian , Strauss Richard , Ruf Andreas , Schubert Joerg , Isberner Nora , Pilgram Lisa , Hanses Frank , Luedde Tom , Jensen Björn , Stecher Melanie , Hower Martin , Vehreschild Joerg J.
Published: March 2022

BackgroundEstablishing the optimal treatment for COVID-19 patients remains challenging. Specifically, immunocompromised and pre-diseased patients are at high risk for severe disease course and face limited therapeutic options. Convalescent plasma has been considered as therapeutic approach, but reliable data are lacking, especially for high-risk patients.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of 55 hospitalized COVID-19 patients with high risk for disease progression, primarily due to immunosuppression from cancer, solid organ transplantation, autoimmune disease, dialysis. A matched-pairs analysis (1:4) was performed with 220 patients from the Lean European Open Survey on SARS-CoV-2-infected Patients (LEOSS) who were treated or not treated with convalescent plasma. ResultsBoth cohorts, had high mortality (UKD 41.8%, LEOSS 34.1%). A matched-pairs analysis showed no significant effect on mortality. CP administration before the formation of pulmonary infiltrates showed the lowest mortality in both cohorts (10%), whereas mortality in the complicated phase was 27.8%. CP administration during the critical phase revealed the highest mortality; UKD 60.9%, LEOSS 48.3%. ConclusionIn our cohort of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients with severe comorbidities CP did not significantly reduce mortality in a retrospective matched pairs analysis. However, our data supports the concept that a reduction in mortality is achievable when CP is administered early.
The Role of in-person Focus Groups in the Management of Urinary Incontinence in Women From a Mixed-methods, Randomized Pilot Study.
Authors: Toma Gina , Carolan Alexandra , Buckner-Petty Skye , Vargas Laura , Wolter Christopher , Khan Aqsa
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To assess the quantitative and qualitative components of in-person focus groups as a potential intervention for female patients with urinary incontinence.Methods: Women over the age of 18 seeking treatment for UI were randomized to standard care with focus group participation or to standard care alone. All participants completed validated questionnaires: MESA, UDI-6, OAB-SAT-q, PGI-S, PGI-I, SQoL-F, PHQ-9, IPAQ at the beginning and conclusion of the study. Questionnaires were analyzed with repeated measures of ANOVA models in an intention-to-treat manner. Three moderated focus group sessions were held and audio recorded. Recordings were transcribed and categorized by frequency into themes using grounded theory methodology. Results: A total of 10 control and 8 intervention participants agreed to participate. Seven women attended all three focus group sessions and were included in the final analysis. Transcripts from focus group sessions observed women identified most with (1) urinary incontinence (UI) as a chronic disease, (2) shame managing UI, and (3) social constraints of toileting. Participants self-reported appreciation of focus group participation and desire for on-going sessions. Analysis of the questionnaires did not demonstrate statistically significant differences.Conclusion: Data ascertained from questionnaires was unable to demonstrate a meaningful effect in improved treatment outcomes for control and intervention participants. Grounded theory analysis of transcripts identified four primary themes: (1) appreciation of the focus group, (2) UI as a gendered issue, (3) lack of public awareness, and (4) history of negative provider interactions. All focus group participants self-reported interest in attending future focus group sessions.
Can local environmental constraints improve enterprise's green innovation quality? Evidence from Chinese listed firms
Authors: Tang Yiding , Zhu Yuke , Gao Honggui , Hu Yanan , Ding Qinan
Published: March 2022

This study investigates how local environmental target constraints, a distinctive characteristic of Chinese environmental regulations, drive enterprises to improve their green innovation quality. We empirically examine the mechanism of the impact of the intensity of different types of local environmental target constraints on the quality of corporate green innovation utilizing the data of A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen in China from 2011–2019 and each city’s Government Work Reports. First, the strength of indirect environmental target constraints has a significant positive effect on the quality of green innovation, but further nonlinear characteristics reveal a significant inverse U-shaped relationship between them. However, direct environmental target constraint intensity had significant effects in improving enterprises’ green innervation quality. Second, indirect environmental target constraint intensity has an inverted U-shaped trend in increasing the intensity of environmental regulation and influencing the digitalization of enterprises, which in turn forms an inverted U-shaped relationship with the quality of green innovation. Under indirect environmental goal constraint intensity, the increase in R&D expenditure for green innovation quality improvement decreases the expected net income, resulting in insufficient incentive for innovation, which explains the marginal decreasing trend of the positive impact of indirect environmental goal constraints on the quality of green innovation. Third, indirect environmental target constraint intensity works better in areas with policies prioritizing city over province and with mayors less than 57 years old. Therefore, local governments should establish an environmental target constraint system based on indirect environmental target constraints complemented by direct environmental target constraints, and assess and report the performance of indirect environmental targets in the subsequent Government Work Report. Further reforms should streamline administration, decentralize power and improve services, cultivate more young and knowledgeable cadres, encourage communication and exchange between governments and enterprises, and implement market-oriented environmental regulations and measures such as emission trading mechanisms.
Synthesis of high surface area zinc oxide supported copper catalysts and its catalytic activity studies on dehydrogenation of cyclohexanol
Authors: Koppadi Kumara Swamy , Nekkala Nagaraju , Ponnala Bhanuchander , SK Hussain , Seelam Prem Kumar , Perupogu Vijayanand , Balla Putrakumar
Published: March 2022

Rice-derived high surface area ZnO support (HSA-ZnO) is prepared by a novel thermal decomposition technique using rice grains as a sacrificial exo-template and zinc acetate trihydrate as an ZnO precursor. Further, copper supported HSA-ZnO catalysts with different copper loadings (4, 8, 12 and 16 wt.%) were prepared by using wet impregnation method and characterized by various physicochemical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), BET surface area, temperature programmed techniques for CO2 desorption (CO2-TPD) and reduction (H2-TPR) and N2O pulse chemisorption measurements. The as-prepared ZnO support material exhibited moderately high surface area of 145 m2/g, which is six times higher than commercial ZnO. The screening of Cu-modified HSA-ZnO catalysts were evaluated in the dehydrogenation of cyclohexanol to cyclohexanone reaction in a continuous flow reactor. In this work, the effect of temperature, the influence of copper loadings and the catalyst stability were thoroughly investigated. The catalyst exhibited varied properties with Cu loading and among the studied catalysts, 12 wt.% Cu/HSA-ZnO catalyst exhibited highest cyclohexanol conversion of 75% and 89% cyclohexanone selectivity was achieved. The results were substantiated and confirmed by N2O pulse chemisorption and temperature programmed studies.
Analysis of microstructural characteristics and components of red and yellow ink pigments used in permanent makeup
Authors: Jin Hyun Sook , Chang ByungSoo
Published: March 2022

Our purpose in this study is to analyze the microstructural characteristics and constituent elements of inorganic substances added to the yellow ink and red ink pigments used in permanent makeup. We observed the microstructural properties of inorganic pigments added to the ink using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and analyzed the constituent elements of the inorganic pigment particles using an energy dispersion spectroscopy analyzer (EDS). In red wine-colored ink, cubic titanium dioxide with a diameter of 110 to 200 ㎚ was the major component, and rod-shaped iron oxide was rarely observed. Most of the ingredients of taupe yellow ink were rod-shaped yellow iron oxide, and a small amount of cubic titanium dioxide was observed. Red wine-colored ink and taupe yellow ink contained lumps composed of titanium dioxide particles. In red wine-colored ink, lumps were formed by agglomeration. However, we observed that the surface of the lump composed of titanium dioxide in the taupe yellow ink had a smooth surface caused by external physical compression. The titanium dioxide particle mass which found in taupe yellow ink in this study is an artificial product. When this mass accumulates in the dermis, it may cause a color mismatch. Therefore, permanent makeup using fine pigments should be free of foreign substances that may cause trouble in the skin. In addition, there is a need to improve the quality of the ink so that the required color can be safe and long lasting in the dermis.
Insights Into the Architecture of Human-induced Polygenic Selection in Duroc Pigs
Authors: Chen Zitao , Teng Jinyan , Diao Shuqi , Xu Zhiting , Ye Shaopan , Qiu Dingjie , Zhang Zhe , Pan Yuchun , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Qin , Zhang Zhe
Published: March 2022

Background
As one of the most utilized commercial composite boar lines, Duroc pigs have been introduced to China and undergone strongly human-induced selection over the past decades. However, the efficiencies and limitations of previous breeding of Chinese Duroc pigs are largely understudied. The objective of this study was to uncover directional polygenic selection in the Duroc pig genome, and investigate points overlooked in the past breeding process.
Results
Here, we utilized the Generation Proxy Selection Mapping (GPSM) on a dataset of 1,067 Duroc pigs with 8,766,074 imputed SNPs. GPSM detected a total of 5,649 putative SNPs actively under selection in the Chinese Duroc pig population, and the potential functions of the selection regions were mainly related to production, meat and carcass traits. Meanwhile, we observed that the allele frequency of variants related to teat number (NT) relevant traits was also changed, which might be influenced by genes that had pleiotropic effects. First, we identified the direction of selection on NT traits by \(\widehat{G}\), and further pinpointed large-effect genomic regions associated with NT relevant traits by selection signature and GWAS. Combining results of NT relevant traits-specific selection signatures and GWAS, we found three common genome regions, which were overlapped with QTLs related to production, meat and carcass traits besides “Teat number” QTLs. This implied that there were some pleiotropic variants underlying NT and economic traits. We further found that rs346331089 has pleiotropic effects on NT and economic traits, e.g., litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at weaning (LWW), days to 100 kg (D100), backfat thickness at 100 kg (B100), and loin muscle area at 100 kg (L100) traits.
Conclusions
The selected loci that we identified across methods displayed the past breeding process of Chinese Duroc pigs, and our findings could be used to inform future breeding decision.
Piperazine-modified magnetic graphene oxide (Pip@MGO) as a novel nanocomposite for the effective removal of lead ions; using RSM optimization
Authors: Alboghbeish Mousa , Saghanezhad Seyyed Jafar , Larki Arash
Published: March 2022

In this research, the piperazine-modified magnetic graphene oxide (Pip@MGO) nanocomposite was synthesized and utilized as a nano-adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) ions from environmental water and wastewater samples. The physicochemical properties of Pip@MGO nanocomposite was characterized by XRD, FESEM, TEM, EDX, TGA, VSM and FT-IR analysis. In this method, the batch removal process were designed by response surface methodology (RSM) based on a central composite design (CCD) model. The results indicated that the highest efficiency of Pb(II) removal was obtained from the quadratic model under optimum conditions of prominent parameters (initial pH: 6.0, adsorbent dosage: 7 mg, initial concentration of lead: 15 mg L− 1 and contact time: 27.5 min). Adsorption data showed that lead ions uptake on Pip@MGO nanocomposite followed the Langmuir isotherm model equation and pseudo-second order kinetic model. High adsorption capacity (558.2 mg g− 1) and easy magnetic separation capability showed that the synthesized Pip@MGO nanocomposite has great potential in removal of Pb(II) ions from contaminated wastewaters.
Clinical traits and molecular genetics analysis of monogenic diabetes caused by mutations in the GATA6
Authors: Yue Xing , Huang Debin
Published: March 2022

Aim:This study aims to analyze the clinical and genetic features of monogenic diabetes with GATA6 mutations in order to improve clinicians’ understanding of the disease.Method:We report a de novo GATA6 mutation in a family and review related literature to summarize the clinical and genetic characteristics of monogenic diabetes with GATA6 mutations.Results:This GATA6 missense mutation(c.749G>T, p.Gly250Val) is not reported presently, characterized by adult-onset diabetes with pancreatic dysplasia and located in transcriptional activation region. Carries with GATA6 mutations(n=55) have a variable spectrum of dibetetes, ranging form neonatal(72.7%), childhood-onset(20%) to adults-onset(7.5%). 83.5% of patients with abmoral pancreatic development. Heart and hepatobillary defects are the most common abnormalities of extrapancreatic features. Most mutations with GATA6 are loss of function(LOF,71.8%) and located in functional region.Conclusion:The heterogeneous hallmarks result in monogenic diabetes with GATA6 mutations easy misdiagonsis and missed diagnosis. A comprehensive assessment and follow-up is needed in the clinic. Genetic counseling and genetic testing are recommended to patients with mutations.
EUD based 90Y-TOF-PET post selective internal radionuclide therapy provides a similar TCP in HCC than observed in EBRT
Authors: D'ABADIE philippe , Walrand Stephan , Hesse Michel , Borbath Ivan , Lhommel Renaud , Jamar François
Published: March 2022

Background: Tumor equivalent uniform dose (EUD) is a predictor of patient outcome after selective internal radionuclide therapy (SIRT) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and can be evaluated with 90Y-TOF-PET. The aim is to evaluate the correlation between PET based tumors EUD and the clinical response evaluated with dual molecular tracer (11C-acetate and 18F-FDG) PET/CT post SIRT. Methods: 34 HCC tumors in 22 patients were prospectively evaluated. The metabolic response was characterized by the Total Lesion Metabolism variation (ΔTLM) between baseline and follow up. This response allowed to compute a Tumor Control Probability (TCP) as a function of the tumor EUD. Results: The dose response correlation was exponential-asymptotic shaped and highly significant (R=0.72, P < 0.001). With a cutoff of 40Gy, the metabolic response was strongly different in both groups (median response 35% versus 100%, p< 0.001). Moreover, the TCP (EUD) was very similar to that observed in External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT). Conclusions: EUD based 90Y TOF-PET/CT predicts the metabolic response after SIRT of HCC assessed using dual molecular PET tracers and provides a similar TCP curve to that observed in EBRT. Both TCPs show that a EUD of 100 Gy is needed and sufficient to control a HCC.
Centennial- to Millennial-scale Dynamics of Perennial Ice Deposits in Alpine Ice Caves.
Authors: Racine Tanguy M. F. , Reimer Paula J. , Spötl Christoph
Published: March 2022

Mid-latitude alpine caves preserve a record of past solid precipitation during winter, locally spanning several centuries to millennia. Dating organic macro-remains trapped in ice layers allows the determination of timing and duration of past periods of positive and negative ice mass balance. We present here the largest comparative study of ice cave sites yet published, using Bayesian age-modelling on a database comprising 107 radiocarbon dates, spread over eight caves in the Austrian Alps. We show that periods of positive mass balance coincide with past glacier advances. We find unconformities rich in organic macro-remains dated to the Medieval Climate Anomaly (between 850 and 1200 CE) marking widespread ice retreat. We demonstrate positive ice mass balance at all studied sites for the Little Ice Age, coinciding with the largest glacier advances in the Holocene between 1400 and 1850 CE. At the sites with records spanning over 2000 years, positive mean annual mass balance is also observed during the periods 300 BCE–100 CE and 600-800 CE. These subterranean ice deposits show widespread evidence of accelerated negative mass balances in recent years and their record is under imminent threat of disappearing.
Valorization of siliceous wastes of alum industry as an additive for geopolymer cement
Authors: Abdullah Nabil , El-Sokkary Tarek , Gharieb m
Published: March 2022

In this study an experimental work has been done to test the feasibility of using siliceous wastes of de-aluminated metakaolin (DK) with metakaolin (MK) in the production of geopolymer concrete. The chemical composition and physical properties of de-aluminated metakaolin was tested. For this purpose, metakaolin (MK) was partially substituted with de-aluminated metakaolin (DK) at ratios of 0–60% by weight. The compressive strength was measured by testing standard cubes at 7 and 28 days. The effect of DK on specific gravity, porosity and mechanical characteristics were tested. The internal microstructure, and hydration were investigated by using modern instruments such as, thermogravimetric/thermogravimetric derivative (TGA/TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The findings assure the potentiality for the application of DK as a pozzolanic material. The results showed that the de-aluminated meta-kaolin mixture is a good pozzolanic material.
Imaging Solid-Electrolyte-Interphase Dynamics Using In-operando Reflection Interference Microscopy
Authors: Feng Guangxia , Jia Hao , Shi Yaping , Yang Xu , Zhang Ye , Yang Chaojie , Xu Kang , Yao Yan , Xu Wu , Shan Xiaonan
Published: March 2022

The quality of solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) dictates the performances of most battery chemistries, especially lithium (Li)-metal, but its formation processes as well as evolution during battery operation remain little understood due to the lack of reliable in-operando characterization tools of sufficient spatial and temporal resolutions. Herein, we report an in-operando reflection interference microscope (RIM) that enables the real-time imaging of SEI during formation and evolution in state-of-the-art electrolyte based on LiPF6 dissolved in organic carbonates. By mapping the minimal and localized optical signals generated from interphasial events, RIM reveals with extremely high sensitivity that the stratified structure of SEI formed during four distinct steps, including the emergence of a permanent inner inorganic layer enriched in LiF, the transient assembly of an interfacial structure of an electrified double layer, and the consequent emergence of a temporary outer organic-rich layer, whose presence is reversible with electrochemical cycling. Comparing the morphologies of SEIs, we identify an inverse correlation between the thicknesses of two interphasial sub-components: the thicker the LiF-rich inner layer, the thinner the organic-rich outer layer, implying that the permanent inorganic-rich inner layer dictates the organic-rich outer layer formation and Li nucleation. We also find that trace presence of water (50 ppm) in the electrolyte induces a much thicker and higher quality LiF-rich layer and a much thinner organic-rich layer in SEI, which leads to less electrolyte consumption, and more uniform Li nucleation on the electrode surface. The real-time visualization of SEI dynamics achieved for the first time in this work provides a guideline for the rational design of interphases, a battery component that has been the least understood and most challenging barrier to developing electrolytes for future batteries.
A Bibliographic Database Search Strategy Informed by an Operational Definition of Complementary, Alternative, and Integrative Medicine
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Dhawan Tushar , Dogadova Ekaterina , Taghi-Zada Zhala , Vacca Alexandra , Fajardo Renee-Gabrielle , Masood Hooriya A. , Patel Riva , Sunderji Samira , Wieland L. Susan , Moher David
Published: March 2022

Background
Determining which therapies fall under the umbrella of complementary, alternative, and/or integrative medicine (CAIM) is difficult for several reasons. An operational definition is dynamic, and changes depending on both historical time period and geographical location, with many countries integrating or considering their traditional system(s) of medicine as conventional care. We have previously reported the first operational definition of CAIM informed by a systematic search. In the present study, we have developed a bibliographic database keyword search strategy for CAIM based on this operational definition, in order to standardize research involving systematic searches such as systematic reviews and bibliometric analyses.
Methods
Using the finalised operational definition of CAIM's 604 therapies, a single keyword search strategy was developed for the most common bibliographic databases, including those searchable on the OVID platform (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED), the EBSCO platform (e.g., ERIC, CINAHL), Scopus, and Web of Science. The Therapeutic Research Center's “Natural Medicines” database was searched for all 604 therapies, and each item's scientific name and/or synonym was included as a phrase to the search strategy.
Results
This developed bibliographic database search strategy provides a standardised list of CAIM terms that may be searched on bibliographic databases including those found on the OVID platform (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED), the EBSCO platform (e.g., ERIC, CINAHL), Scopus, and Web of Science.
Conclusion
Researchers can select relevant terms for their CAIM study and insert the keywords or phrases into these databases to receive all accessible data. This search technique can simply be copied and pasted into the search bar of each database to identify research by keywords, which is the most inclusive, or by words in the article title, which is more selective. Given its versatility across multiple commonly used academic platforms/databases, it is expected that this search strategy will be of great value to those conducting research on CAIM topics involving systematic searches.
Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) distribution on metabolic healthy obese (MHO) vs metabolic unhealthy obese (MUO)
Authors: Suárez-Cuenca Juan Antonio , Carvajal-Aguilera Karla Guadalupe , Camacho-Castillo Luz del Carmen , Vega-Moreno Karen De la , Romero-Hernández Christopher Bryan , Vera-Gómez Eduardo , Hernández-Patricio Alejandro , Domínguez-Pérez Gabriela Alexandra , Gutiérrez-Buendía Juan Ariel , Montiel-López Luis , Garduño-Pérez Ángel Alfonso , de Vaca Rebeca Pérez-Cabeza , Salamanca-García Moisés , Montoya-Ramírez Jesús , Ortíz-Fernández Moisés , Gaytán-Fuentes Omar Felipe , García Silvia , Alcaráz-Estrada Sofía Lizeth , Melchor-López Alberto , Pineda-Juárez Juan Antonio , Escamilla-Tilch Mónica , Gutiérrez-Salinas José , Mondragón-Terán Paul
Published: March 2022

Background. Adipose tissue is a key factor during metabolic dysregulation, whereas adipose tissue dysfunction is promoted if enlarged adipocytes, impaired adipocyte differentiation, inflammation, remodeling and/or fibrosis. As evidenced by in vitro studies and animal models, adipocyte hypertrophy alone is sufficient to impair glucose uptake, probably explained by changes of cell distribution of Glucose Transporter 4 (GLUT4) and trafficking, reflecting a new potential regulatory pathway. Patients with obesity can be subclassified into cardiometabolic risk phenotypes, with significant difference in adipose tissue characteristics and glucose uptake. Therefore, GLUT4 distribution in adipocytes from the so known: 1) metabolic healthy obese (MHO) and 2) metabolic unhealthy obese (MUO), may help to understand cardiometabolic risk differences between them. Objectives. To analyze GLUT4 distribution in adipocytes from MHO vs MUO phenotypes. Subjects and Methods. Cross-sectional observational study. Patients programmed for bariatric surgery were included. Patients were classified as MHO or MUO according to NCEP-ATPIII criteria. Samples from subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) were obtained during bariatric surgery. GLUT4 expression and distribution in adipocytes were evaluated by immunofluorescence and image analysis. Results. GLUT4 molecules showed a lower number and more spared distribution in adipocytes from MUO phenotype. Likewise, GLUT4 distribution was related to insulin resistance in both metabolic phenotypes, with differences between VAT and SAT. Conclusion. GLUT4 expression pattern in adipocytes was related with the type of adipose tissue, the cardiometabolic risk and insulin resistance, suggesting potential and specific regulatory role.