bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dynamic Nexus: Exploring the Interplay of BMI before, during, and after Pregnancy with Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) Risk in Chinese Lactating Women
Authors: Chen Liangxia , Ma Jie , Su Guanmin , Yin Longlong , Jiang Xiuyu , Wang Xiangxiang , Liu Lele , Zhang Xiaofei , Xu Xiaohui , Li Suyun , Zhang Gaohui , Zhao Ran , Yu Lianlong
Published: August 2023

Background and aim: The health implications of BMI and MetS in lactating women are significant. This study aims to investigate the relationship between risk of Mets in lactation and BMI in four stages: pre-pregnancy, prenatal period, 42 days postpartum, and current lactation.
Methods and results: A total of 1870 Lactating Women within 2 years after delivery were included from "China Child and Lactating Mother Nutrition Health Surveillance (2016-2017)". Logistic regression model and Restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to estimate the relationship between BMI and risk of MetS. ROC analysis was used to determine the threshold for the risk of MetS. Chain mediating effect analysis was used to verify the mediating effect. BMI of MetS group in all stages were higher than non-MetS group (P<0.0001). There were significant positive correlations between BMI in each stage and ORs of MetS during lactation (P<0.05). The best cut-off values for BMI in the four stages were 23.47, 30.49, 26.04 and 25.47kg/m2. The non-linear spline test at BMI in 42 days postpartum, current and MetS in lactation was statistically significant (P non-linear=0.0223, 0.0003). The mediation effect of all chains have to work through lactation BMI. The total indirect effect accounted for 80.95% of the total effect.
Conclusions: The risk of MetS in lactating women is due to a high BMI base before pregnancy and postpartum. High BMI in all stages of pregnancy and postpartum were risk factors for MetS in lactation. BMI during lactation plays a key role in the risk of MetS.
High Levels of Preoperative Albumin and Albumin-globulin Ratio associated with the Higher Survival Rate in Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Ye Lei , Qi Qinghua , Xiao Sha , Petersen Jindong Ding , Cao Wenting
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The preoperative albumin-globulin ratio (AGR) is an inflammation-associated factor related to the overall survival in various malignancies. The objective of this study was to investigate preoperative serum AGR, albumin, and globulin level for the survival rate of GC.
Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study comprising 771 GC patients who underwent the first-time gastrectomy between 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2018 at the Second People’s Hospital of Wuhu City, Anhui Province, China. For the eligible patients, we followed them since the first day of the operation to death, immigrate, or 31st of May 2021 (end of the study), whichever came first. Serum AGR and proteins were grouped according to quartiles (Q1 as the reference group). Cox proportional hazards regression models were applied for the analysis.
Results: Of 771 GC patients, 322 (41.8%) died during a median 41.00 moths of follow-up. Multivariate Cox analysis adjusting for confounders showed that, preoperative AGR level were significantly associated with GC mortality risk, i.e., following by the serum levels increased, the survival rate increased (Q2: HR =0.727, Q3: HR = 0.676, Q4: HR = 0.656, p for trend = 0.007). Albumin level showed a similar protective pattern but not globulin. Stratification analysis showed among the patients who were advance age, higher weight, advanced pTNM stage, and M0 group, higher preoperative AGR level, higher survival rate (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: These results showed that higher level of preoperative AGR and albumin were protective against risk of death in GC patients with first gastrectomy
Energy Efficiency under Mobility Control for Device-to-Device in Downlink Multi-cell OFDMA Systems with Fractional Frequency Reuse and Cooperative Relaying
Authors: Najjar Abdelhalim
Published: August 2023

This paper addresses the mobility control (MC) for Device to Device (D2D) in downlink multi-cell OFDMA system with cooperative relaying and Fractional Frequency Reuse (FFR) scheme. D2D equipments are characterized by limited capacity of battery and suffer from Co-Channel Interference (CCI) at cell edge. FFR and cooperative relaying schemes are proposed to improve energy efficiency (EE) and avoid CCI. In the edge region, according to a difference set and using the sectorization technique, the FFR of 7/3 and 7/4 have been applied. The deployment of FFR with Amplify and Forward (AF) fixed relays improve significantly the system performance of Frequency Reuse Factor (FRF) of 1 and 3.
Curvature correction factors for the independent verification of dose monitor units of electron treatment plans calculated in Eclipse.
Authors: Slama Luke , Mahmood Talat , Mckernan Brendan
Published: August 2023

Electron Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculation algorithms are sensitive to the incidence angle and curvature of the body contour of the patient. Over 10% difference between Treatment Planning System (TPS) and Independent Monitor Unit (IMU) calculations have been reported in the literature. We also observed similar results while using ClearCalc IMU calculation for electrons treatments planned in the Eclipse TPS. These plans can have over 10% difference to ClearCalc calculations when there is significant curvature of the body contour on the incident beam. The aim of this project is to measure and apply curvature correction factors (CCFs) in the clinical setting. Spherical and cylindrical phantoms were 3D printed from water equivalent PLA of varying diameters. The custom phantom was placed on solid water and measurements were carried out using NACP chamber at dmax depth. The CCF was defined as the ratio of the chamber reading with the custom phantom to that with solid water at the same depth. CCFs were measured for three electron energies (6MeV, 9MeV and 12MeV) and compared to calculations made in the Eclipse TPS. CCFs are then applied to ClearCalc calculations for patient cases to compare against the Eclipse MU calculation. Varian’s Eclipse API scripting is used to assist in calculating the patient curvature for the IMU calculations. The mean difference between the measured and TPS calculated CCFs was -0.6% with a maximum difference of 7.8% for the smallest diameter phantom (2.8cm) with 6MeV energy. The measured CCF’s can be used for correcting surface curvature to improve independent MU calculations for electron plans.
Matching root water uptake patterns to fine root and soil water distributions
Authors: Zhu Wei , Zhao Dehai , Di Nan , Li Doudou , Zhou Ou , Sun Yiming , Jia Liming , Ding Changjun , Xi Benye
Published: August 2023

Aims
Exploring the relationships between water uptake, fine root, and soil water is essential for many fields, such as plant physiology, ecological hydrology, and water conservancy.
Methods
In four Populus tomentosa stands with different ages (young and mature) and stand structures (low and high stand density), we matched root water uptake patterns obtained from stable isotope techniques with fine root and soil water distributions, respectively. The effects of soil water content and meteorological factors on these matching degrees were further explored.
Results
It was found that the water uptake pattern was closer to soil water distribution than to fine root distribution in mature stands, while water uptake pattern matched both fine root and soil water distribution closely in young stands. Increased competition intensity within a stand would suppress the matching degree between water uptake patterns and fine root distribution, but would have little effect on the matching degree between water uptake patterns and soil water distribution. There is a relatively high positive or negative correlation between these two matching degrees in all four stands. Compared with the direct effect of soil water content, the influence of meteorological factors on matching degrees was relatively weak.
Conclusion
The results indicate that the expression of water uptake function of the young stand depends on a combination of root structure and available water resources, while the water uptake function of mature stands is driven more by available water resources rather than root structure.
Genome-wide association study for temperature-response and photo-thermal interaction of flowering time in soybean using a panel of cultivars with diverse maturity groups
Authors: Wu Tingting , Wen Huiwen , Zhang Xinyue , Jia Hongchang , Xu Cailong , Song Wenwen , Jiang Bingjun , Yuan Shan , Sun Shi , Wu Cunxiang , Han Tianfu
Published: August 2023

The flowering transition is a crucial component of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) development. The transition process is regulated by photoperiod, temperature, and their interaction. To examine the genetic architecture associated with temperature- and photo-thermal-mediated regulation of soybean flowering, we here performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using a panel of 201 soybean cultivars with maturity groups ranging from MG 000 to VIII. Each cultivar was grown in artificially-controlled photoperiod and different seasons in 2017 and 2018 to assess the thermal response (TR) and the interactive photo-thermal response (IPT) of soybean flowering time. The panel contained 96,299 SNPs with minor allele frequencies > 5%; 33, 19, and 49 of these SNPs were significantly associated with only TR, only IPT, and both TR and IPT, respectively. 21 SNPs were located in or near previously reported quantitative trait loci (QTL) for first-flowering; 16 SNPs were located within 200 kb of the main-effect flowering genes GmFT2a, GmFT2b, GmFT3a, GmFT3b, GmFT5a, GmFT5b, GmCOL2b, GmPIF4b, and GmPIF4c, or near homologs of the known Arabidopsis thaliana flowering genes BBX19, VRN1, TFL1, FUL,AGL19, SPA1, HY5, PFT1, and EDF1. Natural non-synonymous allelic variations were identified in the candidate genes Glyma.08G302500 (GmHY5), Glyma.08G303900 (GmPIF4c), and Glyma.16G046700 (GmVRN1). Cultivars with different haplotypes showed significant variations in TR, IPT, and flowering time in multiple environments. The favorable alleles, candidate genes, and diagnostic SNP markers identified here provide valuable information for future improvement of soybean photo-thermal adaptability, enabling expansion of soybean production regions and improving plant resilience to global climate change.
Impact of climatic factors on incidence of rice leaf folder (Cnaphalocrosis medinalis, Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in rainfed rice crop of North-East India
Authors: Das Purnima , Borah Binita , Gharphalia Bikash Jyoti , Saikia Hemanta , Saikia Priyanka , Mudoi Abhilisa
Published: August 2023

To investigate and quantify the impact of abiotic factors viz., temperature, relative humidity, rainy days, rainfall and bright sunshine hours on the seasonal incidence of rice leaf folder (Cnaphalocrosis medinalis Guenee, Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in rice ecosystem of North-East India.The infestation of rice leaf folder was monitored in the rice field by visual counting of folded leaves as well as the incidence of the pest with larvae and were correlated with the weather parameters during the study periods. Results revealed that leaf folder damage percentage culminated at 34th to 36th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) during the sali seasons (kharif crop) of the stipulated five-year period i.e 2016–2020. Maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity and rainy days significantly effect on leaf folder infestation. Maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, rainy days and rainfall together contributed about 58–87 per cent of total variation in leaf folder infestation. The principal component analysis was conducted and Minimum temperature exhibit prominence significant effect on the incidence of rice leaf folder among the climatic factors. The climatic factors and its changes during the crop cycle plays crucial on survival and infestation of rice leaf folder.
Predictive maintenance using deep learning and frequency harmonics analysis
Authors: Gomez Herman Maicol , Perafan-Villota Juan Carlos
Published: August 2023

Reciprocating machines are critical assets in factories. Thus, predictive maintenance (PdM) plays a crucial role in avoiding unbudgeted costs. Firstly, a preliminary diagnostic is carried out by qualified personnel who interpret data from sensors based on the knowledge learned from maintenance manuals and their expertise, which can turn into a spend and monotonous task. Currently, machine learning and signals analysis hold great potential in predictive maintenance, allowing assist experts to make appropriate decisions in advance. However, there are many reasons why so far it is not something easy to do or that is scalable. In this paper, we propose a low-cost architecture based on a convolutional neural network feed by vibration data, which achieves high performance in identifying the current asset health, getting robust features regardless of little information available.
Isolation, anticancer potency and camptothecin – producing ability of endophytic fungi isolated from Ixora chinensis
Authors: Doan Nhung Thi , Le Dung Thi , Ho Anh Ngoc , Ho Thuong Thi , Do Thao Thi , Hoang Ha , Nguyen Mau Hung , Bui Thanh Mai , Chu Hoang Ha
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Camptothecin (CPT) is an important alkaloid used for anticancer treatment. It is mainly produced by two endangered and overharvested Camptotheca acuminata and Nothapodytes nimmoniana plants. Endophytic fungi are promising alternative sources for CPT production. This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of fungal endophytes in Ixora chinensis, their cytotoxic properties and camptothecin – producing ability.
Methods
In the present study, fungi residing within explants of Ixora chinensis were isolated and their CPT-producing capability of their endophytes was verified via TLC, HPLC, LC-HRMS and NMR analyses and compared with standards. In addition, MTT and SRB assays were selected to test the anticancer effect.
Results
The endophytic fungi collection of 62 isolates were assigned to 11 genera, with four common genera (Diaporthe, Phyllosticta, Colletotrichum, and Phomopsis) and seven less common genera (Penicillium, Botryosphaeria, Fusarium, Pestalotiopsis, Aspergillus, and Didymella). Moreover, the anticancer activity of extracts was assessed against human lung carcinoma (A549). Among 8 potential extracts, only Penicillium sp. I3R2 was found to be a source of CPT, while the remaining seven extracts have not been detected to contain CPT. Thus, other prominent endophytic fungi might be potential candidates of phytochemicals with anticancer properties.
Conclusions
The present study identified novel endophytic fungi from I. chinensis as prospective sources for camptothecin and other potential bioactive compounds.
A Case Report of Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Raulji Jay , Thakore Dhruvin
Published: August 2023

Hemolytic anemia is a hematologic disorder characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells (RBCs). This can lead to a shortage of RBCs, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and jaundice.
The destruction of RBCs can occur in two main ways: intravascular hemolysis and extravascular hemolysis. In intravascular hemolysis, the RBCs are destroyed within the bloodstream. This can be caused by factors such as immune-mediated hemolysis, mechanical trauma, or infections. In extravascular hemolysis, the RBCs are destroyed by the spleen and other organs of the reticuloendothelial system. This can be caused by factors such as hereditary defects in RBCs, infections, and medications.
The diagnosis of hemolytic anemia is made based on a clinical evaluation and a variety of laboratory tests. The clinical evaluation should focus on identifying the symptoms and signs of hemolytic anemia, as well as any underlying conditions that may be causing the hemolysis. The laboratory tests that are typically performed include a complete blood count (CBC), a direct antiglobulin test (DAT), a haptoglobin test, and a bilirubin test.
The treatment of hemolytic anemia depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatment may include medications, blood transfusions, or surgery.
The prognosis for hemolytic anemia varies depending on the underlying cause. Some types of hemolytic anemia are chronic and lifelong, while others can be cured.
Donepezil and Embelin loaded Nanostructured lipid carriers for direct brain delivery as an intervention for Alzheimer’s disease: Formulation design, Optimization and Evaluation
Authors: Ali Mohd Humair , Alam Ozair , Ali Asad , Ali Mohd Uzair , Parvez Suhel , Aldosari Eman , Baboota Sanjula , Ali Javed
Published: August 2023

Donepezil hydrochloride (DPL) and Embelin (EMB) loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) have been developed and optimized to achieve optimal drug loading, safer nasal delivery, effective neuronal/cell uptake, enhanced brain accessibility, controlled release, and desired therapeutic effect. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that both drugs bind effectively to AchE with interaction energies of -48.5319 and − 65.7525, respectively, indicating a synergistic approach. The hydrophobic interactions with target proteins facilitate the transportation of drugs through brain hydrophobic channels to provide a desired pharmacological response. N2a cell line investigation advised a 1:1 ratio of DPL and EMB to have the greatest possible synergistic effect based on the MTT assay. NLCs were fabricated by hot emulsification probe sonication method and optimized using QbD-based Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD). Optimized NLCs with a diameter of 180.2 nm were suitable for axonal uptake. A low PDI score of 0.37 and ZP of -12 mV indicated a uniform monodisperse system with persistent and stable dispersion properties. The NLCs demonstrated sustained drug release, DPL released at 90.72 ± 1.00 percent and EMB at 81.30 ± 0.52 percent in 24 hours. The Korsemeyer-Peppas model proved to be the most accurate fit due to its strong correlation. Ex vivo permeation and CLSM studies revealed superior goat nasal mucosa penetration of NLCs over suspension with a higher fluorescence level, up to 35 µm. NLCs treated nasal mucosa exhibited no erosion or interstitial gaps in the histopathological study. Moreover, NLCs were nontoxic and non-irritating, with a HET CAM score of 0.68 ± 0.05, indicating safe nasal delivery. The cellular uptake study showed a preponderance of the NLCs in the Cell's cytoplasm, indicating ready uptake by N2a cells. Hence, intranasal therapy with the DPL and EMB-loaded NLCs could be a practical and promising implementation. Further in vivo, and clinical studies will be required to establish the formulation's efficacy in treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Corn cobs as growing media for the production of cucumber plants in the agriculture sector: A new trend
Authors: Mahmoud Sami Hosni , Abou-Hussein Shaban Desouky , El-tanahy Ahmed Mohamed Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Peat and perlite are considered traditional growing substrates in soilless culture. The high cost of both and the urgent need for agricultural waste recycling have pushed scientists and soilless culture growers to find alternative growing substrates that provide optimal growth conditions and help dispose of wastes safely. In this study, corn cobs (CB) were tested as growing media and compared with peat moss (PM) and perlite (P). The tested organic wastes (CB), peatmoss and perlite were examined with washed sand (WS) in five treatments (washed sand, corn cob, corn cobs + peat, corn cobs + perlite and corn cobs + sand). cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants cultivated using 5 kg pots containing the investigated substrates. Vegetative growth parameters, early fruiting stages, photosynthetic pigments and yield of cucumber gave the highest values with (CB) and (CB) + (P) substrates, while the lowest values were found in (WS) and (CB) + (PS). corn cobs resulted in greater flowering in terms of the number of fruits per plant and yield, which were 39.70% and 37.33% and 33.67% and 29.88 in both seasons higher than those in the lowest substrate (washed sand). Although adding perlite to corn cobs showed the highest values of measured growth characteristics, its high cost decreased net profit. The best net profit value was gained using corn cob substrate only, followed by (CB) + (P) substrate. In addition to the obtained results, (CB) characteristics as a growing media qualify it to be used in cucumber soilless culture production. The use of this replacement media, which contains crushed corn cobs, could reduce (but not eliminate) peatmoss and perlite requirements in soilless culture. In addition, the use of pyrolyzed biomass in growing media provides another way to convert biomass residues into useful products.
Transcriptional kinetics of NADC34-like porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus during cellular infection
Authors: Zhang Riteng , Wang Peixin , Xie Honglin , Yu Chenfei , Li Junda , Yang Zengqi , Zeshan Basit , Wang Xinglong
Published: August 2023

NADC34-like porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) has evolved complicated strategies to synthesize subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs), but their plasticity and temporal dynamics remain to be elucidated. Here, next-generation sequencing (NGS) presented the high-resolution landscapes of the PRRSV subgenome, uncovered a striking heterogeneity in temporal kinetics and transcriptional control, and revealed extensive coordination between TRS-dependent and TRS-independent sgRNAs. Moreover, our study conducted a comprehensive reannotation of transcription regulatory sequence (TRS) locations and clarified that its usage involves canonical, alternative, and non-canonical splicing events for annotated genes. These findings have led to the realization that the coding of genetic information held in viral genomes is far more intricate than previously anticipated. Collectively, the altered sgRNA phenotype offered distinctive insight into novel PRRSV variant infections and gave an additional impetus to mining the functional long-range RNA-RNA interactome at active viral replication sites.
Simulation calculation and real-type experiment verification of single-phase ground fault in power system of 6.6kV nuclear power plan
Authors: Li Jisheng , Gu Xiaolong , Liang Xiao , Deng Yeqiang , Zheng Zhihui , Yu Yinhui
Published: August 2023

The high-voltage plant power system of nuclear power plants contains various cables. When a single-phase ground fault occurs in the system, the input of a large number of cables will increase the capacitive current of the system. At the same time, in the environment of strong radiation and high temperature, the cable insulation is very easy to age. At present, the research on single-phase fault of 6.6kV system mainly focuses on simulation calculation, and lacks the verification of real-type experiment due to the cost and difficulty. Aiming at the problems faced by a domestic nuclear power plant, this paper established a 6.6kV high-voltage utility power ground fault simulation model based on the high-voltage utility cable wiring topology, and studied the fault characteristics of the system under different single-phase faults. A 6.6kV system real-type experiment platform was built to simulate metal grounding and cable insulation faults when the neutral point was not grounded and the extinction coil was grounded, and the agreement between the test and the simulation calculation results is high, but there is a difference in the arcing ground triggered by the cable insulation faults, so as to provide a reference for the maintenance and safe operation of the cable of the power system of the plant of the nuclear power plant.
Antibacterial activity of antimicrobial peptide PMAP-36 combined with tetracycline against porcine extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tao Qi , Lu Yi , Liu Qian , Chen Runqiu , Xu Yating , Li Gang , Hu Xiaoxiang , Ye Chao , Peng Lianci , Fang Rendong
Published: August 2023

The increased emergence of antimicrobial resistance brings great challenges in controlling porcine extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli(ExPEC) infections. Combinations of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and antibiotics can synergistically improve antimicrobial efficacy and reduce bacterial resistance. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of porcine myeloid antimicrobial peptide 36 (PMAP-36) in combination with tetracycline against porcine ExPEC PCN033 both in vitroand in vivo. We found that the MBCs of AMPs (PMAP-36 and PR-39) against ExPEC strains PCN033 and RS218 were 10 μM and 5 μM, respectively. PMAP-36 and antibiotics (tetracycline, gentamicin) had a synergistic bactericidal effect against PCN033. PMAP-36 delayed the emergence of PCN033 resistance to tetracycline. The treatment of PMAP-36 combined with tetracycline significantly increased survival and reduced bacterial load as well as decreasing inflammatory response in mice. In addition, the combination of PMAP-36 and tetracycline promoted the migration of monocytes/macrophages to the infection site. Our results suggest that AMPs in combination with antibiotics may provide more therapeutic options against multi-drug resistant porcine ExPEC.
Molecular evaluation of Cryptosporidium spp. in sheep in southern Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang Zhengrong , Peng Xia , Bo Xinwen , Zhang Bowen , Zhang Yanyan , Yu Fuchang , Zhao Aiyun , Zhang Zhenjie , Qi Meng
Published: August 2023

Cryptosporidium spp. are diarrhoeagenic intestinal parasites with multiple hosts worldwide. A total of 1252 fresh faecal samples of sheep were collected from 10 large-scale farms in southern Xinjiang. Based on the small subunit ribosomal (SSU rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium, 100 Cryptosporidium-positive samples (8.0%, 100/1252) were detected by PCR. Nine out of 10 farms were positive for Cryptosporidium, with the highest infection rate being 18.4% (23/125) on farm 9 in Qira. The infection rates of Cryptosporidium in pre-weaned lambs, weaned lambs, fattening sheep and adult sheep were 20.3% (61/301), 10.3% (34/329), 0.9%, (3/327) and 0.7% (2/295), respectively. Three Cryptosporidium species were identified, namely, C. xiaoi (n = 61), C. parvum (n = 22), and C. ubiquitum (n = 17). Of them, C. xiaoi was detected on all positive farms and in different age groups of sheep. The subtypes of C. parvum and C. ubiquitum were identified by PCR at the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene. Two C. parvum subtypes were identified, IIdA19G1 (n = 21) and IIdA15G1 (n = 1). One C. ubiquitum subtype was identified with XIIa (n = 17). These results indicated the common transmission and genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium in sheep in southern Xinjiang, and further investigations are needed on the zoonotic potential of C. parvum and C. ubiquitum in this region.
Study on the trend of changes in the gut microbiota of rats with ovariectomy-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis and the effect of estrogen intervention
Authors: lei xindong , Cheng TingTing , Xia JieYing , Dong Han , Hong Yang , Cheng GuoQiang , Wang YongJin , Chen TieZhu
Published: August 2023

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common primary osteoporosis. With the aging of the population, it is becoming a major disease that endangers health and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of gut microbiota on PMOP by observing the changes in the levels of estradiol, bone density, and gut microbiota diversity in rats after 3 months of OVX surgery. We randomly divided 60 female SD rats into four groups: baseline group (6 rats), sham-operated group (18 rats), model group (18 rats), and estrogen-treated group (18 rats). The ovariectomy model of postmenopausal osteoporosis was established by performing bilateral ovariectomy. After surgery, 6 rats from each group were randomly sacrificed every 30 days and assessed. After 90 days, all rats were sacrificed and their body weight, bone mineral density (BMD), tissue mineral density (TMD), trabecular bone parameters, femoral bone morphology, hormone levels, and gut microbiota diversity were assessed. We found that OVX led to a decrease in BMD, TMD, and serum estradiol levels in rats, and Increases TNF-α levels. The bone micro-architecture and tissue morphology were also changed, with trabecular fractures, thinning, and decreased numbers. The gut microbiota diversity also changed. Estrogen treatment could improve these changes. OVX leads to a sustained decrease in estrogen levels in rats, which results in progressive bone loss. This is associated with an imbalance in the gut microbiota.
A Survey of Older Adult Services and Sight Loss in Ireland and Eight Similar Jurisdictions
Authors: Hayhoe Simon , Cahill Danny
Published: August 2023

This article discusses a grounded methodology study of older adult services in the Republic of Ireland (Ireland) and eight other similar jurisdictions for the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI). The aims of the study were to inform inclusive service provision by the NCBI for older adults (people over sixty-five years of age) and significantly older adults (people over eighty years of age), examine why some older adults and significantly older adults in Ireland do not fully engage with NCBI’s services, and inform the NCBI’s referral process of people with low or no vision. Methodology: The study was conducted in three phases, each of which was designed to guide the development of training and policy development at the NCBI. Phase one was survey of demographic information from the Irish Census, NCBI and academic literature to identify vulnerable populations, and the geographical concentrations and distributions of older adults and significantly older adults. Phase two was a survey of services by agencies (governmental and non-governmental) in jurisdictions that were found to bear a similarity to the Ireland (these jurisdictions included countries, states, provinces, etc.). Similarity was judged on a group of variables and cultural and political similarity. Phase three was a survey of academic literature on the nature, needs and effectiveness of older adult services, with special reference to jurisdictions with similar state systems of social services. This literature was identified through a search of academic databases, in either academic libraries or Web based academic databases - documents published within the last five years were prioritised during the search of academic literature. Data Analysis: The data analysis in the study was conducted using a model of inclusive capital as an instrument to determine the nature of support. Findings: The study has two main findings: there needs to be further foci on physical and mental health, multiple impairments, significantly older adult’s social needs and end-of-life care in policy development; and, services need to emphasise practical issues of independent living and re-education, developing joined-up services such as transport and well-being, and joining-up similar services across related agencies, e.g. services related to hearing loss and dementia.
Type: Original Article Adherence to antiemetic guidelines in solid cancer patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy in Korea
Authors: Lee ryugyoung , Ku Minhee , Je Nam Kyung
Published: August 2023

Background:
Highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) is known to induce nausea and vomiting (CINV) in approximately 90% of cancer patients undergoing this regimen unless proper prophylactic antiemetics are administered. To mitigate these side effects, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend a prophylactic antiemetic regimen comprising three or four drugs with different mechanisms for patients receiving HEC. This study aimed to analyze the use of prophylactic antiemetics during the first cycle of chemotherapy and assess the compliance rate with the NCCN guidelines.
Methods:
This study used data from the National Inpatient Sample database from 2016 to 2020 provided by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, Korea. Patients with solid cancers treated with two HEC regimens, namely anthracycline + cyclophosphamide (AC) and cisplatin-based regimens, were selected as the study population. The use of prophylactic antiemetic drugs and compliance with guidelines were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression was conducted to estimate the influence of variables on guideline adherence.
Results:
The overall compliance rate with the NCCN guidelines for prophylactic antiemetics was 74.3%, with higher rates observed in the AC group (87.9%) and lower rates in the cisplatin group (60.4%). The AC group had a 6.37 times higher likelihood of receiving guideline-adherent antiemetics than the cisplatin group. The analysis revealed that, compared to 2016, the probability of complying with the guidelines in 2019 and 2020 was 0.72 times and 0.76 times lower, respectively.
Conclusion:
This study showed that a considerable proportion of HEC-treated patients received guideline-adherent antiemetic therapies. However, given the variations in adherence rates between different chemotherapy regimens (AC vs. cisplatin), efforts to improve adherence and optimize antiemetic treatment remain essential for providing the best possible care for patients experiencing CINV.
Biomineralized tetramethylpyrazine-loaded PCL/Gelatin nanofibrous membrane promotes vascularization and bone regeneration of rat cranium defects
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Ni Su , Dai Ting , Li Jingyan , Shao Fang , Liu Chun , Wang Jiafeng , Fan Shijie , Tan Yadong , Zhang Linxiang , Jiang Qiting , Zhao Hongbin
Published: August 2023

Conventional electrospinning produces nanofibers with smooth surfaces that limit biomineralization ability. To overcome this disadvantage, we fabricated a tetramethylpyrazine (TMP)-loaded matrix-mimicking biomineralization in PCL/Gelatin composite electrospun membranes with bubble-shaped nanofibrous structures. PCL/Gelatin membranes (PG), PCL/Gelatin membranes containing biomineralized hydroxyapatite (HA) (PGH), and PCL/Gelatin membranes containing biomineralized HA and loaded TMP (PGHT) were tested. In vitro results indicated that the bubble-shaped nanofibrous surface increased the surface roughness of the nanofibers and promoted mineralization. Furthermore, sustained-release TMP had an excellent drug release efficiency. All membranes displayed favorable cell compatibility and increased cell attachment and viability. In PGHT membranes, the osteogenic and vascularized gene expression of BMSCs and human vascular endothelial cells was significantly upregulated compared with that in other groups, indicating the PGHT membranes exhibited an effective vascularization role. Subsequently, the membranes were implanted in a rat cranium defect model for 4 and 8 weeks. Micro-CT and histological analysis results showed that the PGHT membranes had better bone regenerative patterns. Additionally, the levels of CD31 and VEGF significantly increased in the PGHT membrane compared with those in other membranes. Thus, PGHT membranes could accelerate the repair of cranium defects in vivo via HA and TMP synergistic effects.
Trends in the Incidence of Disseminated Cryptococcosis in Japan: A Nationwide Observational study, 2015-2021
Authors: Akazawa Hidemasa , Hagiya Hideharu , Koyama Toshih , Otsuka Fumio
Published: August 2023

Background
Cryptococcus species can cause severe disseminated infections in immunocompromised hosts. This study investigated the epidemiological features and trends in disseminated cryptococcosis in Japan.
Methods
We used publicly available Infectious Diseases Weekly Reports to obtain data on the incidence of disseminated cryptococcosis in Japan from 2015 to 2021. Patient information, including age, sex, and regional and seasonal data, were extracted. The Joinpoint regression program was used to determine the age-adjusted incidence rate (AAR) per 100,000 population, annual percentage change (APC), and average APC (AAPC).
Results
A total of 1,047 cases of disseminated cryptococcosis were reported, of which those aged ≥ 70 years accounted for 68.8%. APC for the overall cases increased by 9.9% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: -5.4 to 27.7) from 2015 to 2018 and then decreased by -3.3% (95% CI: -15.5 to 10.7) from 2018 to 2021. AAPC for the entire study period was 3.1% (95% CI: -1.5 to 8.0), indicating a possible increase in its number, although not statistically significant. In terms of regional distribution, the average AAR was highest in Shikoku District (0.17) and lowest in Hokkaido District (0.04). Northern Japan exhibited a significantly lower median AAR (median [interquartile range]: 0.06 [0.05, 0.08]) than the Eastern (0.12 [0.12, 0.13]), Western (0.11 [0.10, 0.13]), and Southern (0.14 [0.12, 0.15]) regions. No seasonal variation in incidence was observed.
Conclusion
The prevalence of disseminated cryptococcosis has not increased in Japan. Geographically, the incidence is lower in Northern Japan. Further investigations that incorporate detailed clinical data are required.
Gastric cancer combination therapy by siRNA-mediated NFE2L2(NRF2) silencing and paclitaxel
Authors: Hasani Shima , Khalaj-Kondori Mohammad , Safaei Sahar , Amini Mohammad , Sorkhabi Amin Daei , Tabrizi Negin Riazi , Maghsoudi Mohadeseh , Baradaran Behzad
Published: August 2023

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly chemoresistant malignancy with a poor prognosis. Paclitaxel's low response rate as second-line chemotherapy for advanced GC has prompted intensive research into its molecular basis and prospective targeted therapies to enhance its therapeutic efficacy. The objective of this study was to investigate the synergistic effects of NFE2L2 silencing in combination with paclitaxel treatment on GC cell viability, apoptosis, proliferation, autophagy, and migration.
Methods
After the siRNA-mediated silencing of NFE2L2 in AGS cells, the transfection efficacy was evaluated by qRT-PCR. The MTT assay was then applied to assess cell viability, followed by flow cytometry analysis for apoptosis, proliferation, and autophagy in AGS cells treated with NFE2L2 siRNA, paclitaxel, or their combination. Thereafter, the migration of cells was measured using a wound-healing assay. Ultimately, the relative gene expression levels of apoptotic (Bax, CASP3, and CASP9), anti-apoptotic (BCL2), metastatic (MMP2), and cell cycle (TP53) genes were measured by qRT-PCR in all experiment groups to further assess the molecular basis for the combination therapy.
Results
NFE2L2 siRNA transfection significantly enhanced paclitaxel-induced apoptosis and sensitized AGS cells to paclitaxel via modulating the expression of apoptosis-related genes including BCL2, Bax, CASP3, and CASP9. Besides, NFE2L2 siRNA and paclitaxel synergistically induced cell cycle arrest at the G2 phase, promoted autophagy activation, and inhibited AGS cell migration via MMP2 downregulation. Additionally, TP53, a key regulator of cell growth, was significantly upregulated in the treated groups compared to the control group.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that paclitaxel combined with siRNA-mediated silencing of NFE2L2 might represent a promising therapeutic strategy for GC, however further translational and clinical research are warranted.
Theoretical analysis of mechanism, regio- and stereoselectivity of 1, 3-dipolar cycloaddition of cyclic nitrone and substituted alkenes by DFT method.
Authors: Bouacha Samir
Published: August 2023

This study presents a theoretical investigation of the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between cyclic nitrone a1 and substituted alkene b1. The mechanism, regioselectivity, and stereoselectivity of this 13DC reaction were analyzed using transition state theory and reactivity indices obtained from conceptual density functional theory (DFT) with DFT methods at B3LYP/6-31G(d) level of theory. The results indicate that this cycloaddition reaction proceeds via a synchronous one-step mechanism, exhibiting a non-polar nature and significant activation energies. These theoretical results are in agreement with the experimental observations. Moreover, topological analyses such as ESP, RDG-NCI, and ELF were employed to determine active sites, distinguish hydrogen bonds, van der Waals interactions, and steric repulsive interactions, and predict electron localization, respectively.
PD-1-positive cells contribute to the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and can aid in predicting response to vedolizumab
Authors: Kim Min Kyu , Jo Su In , Kim Sang-Yeob , Lim Hyun , Kang Ho Suk , Moon Sung‑Hoon , Ye Byong Duk , Soh Jae Seung , Hwang Sung Wook
Published: August 2023

Differentiating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from other inflammatory diseases is often challenging. Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is expressed in T cells and is an indicator of their exhaustion. The role of PD-1 expression in diagnosing IBD and predicting the response of biologic agents remains inconclusive. In this study, endoscopic biopsy samples of 19 patients diagnosed with IBD, intestinal tuberculosis, and intestinal Behcet’s disease were analyzed using multiplexed immunohistochemistry. Additionally, a separate "vedolizumab (VDZ) cohort" established in ulcerative colitis patients who underwent endoscopic biopsy before VDZ administration was analyzed to predict response to VDZ. In the immunohistochemistry analysis, the cell density of T cell subsets, including PD-1 + cells, was investigated and compared between IBD and other inflammatory diseases (OID). Cell densities of PD-1 + cells (p = 0.028), PD-1 + helper T cells (p = 0.008), and PD-1 + regulatory T cells (p = 0.024) were higher in IBD compared with OID. In the VDZ cohort, patients with a 14-week steroid-free clinical response had higher levels of PD-1 + cells (p = 0.026), PD-1 + helper T cells (p = 0.026), and PD-1 + regulatory T cells (p = 0.041) than the no response group. PD-1 + immune cells may contribute to the diagnosis of IBD and could be used to predict response to VDZ in ulcerative colitis patients.
To investigate the relationship between H. pylori infection and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Jingyao , Li Xiangyun , Hao Jing
Published: August 2023

Objective: The correlation between Helicobacter pylori infection and non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a hot topic, and we conducted relevant investigations and summaries from clinical research.
Method: A total of 1200 outpatient and inpatient subjects were included. Helicobacter pylori infection was detected through gastroscopy rapid urease detection and 14C urea breath test (14C-UBT), and NAFLD was diagnosed through ultrasound examination.
Result: The prevalence of NAFLD in males was higher (P<0.01). The BMI, ALT, AST, AKP, UA, and UREA values of the NAFLD group were higher than those of the non NAFLD group (P<0.01). In univariate analysis, Helicobacter pylori infection was associated with a higher risk of NAFLD (OR=1.1, 95% CI=1.1-1.2, P<0.001, Model 1). After adjusting for age and gender (Model 2), the OR of NAFLD remained significant (OR=1.1, 95% CI=1.0-1.1, P<0.004). However, when further adjustments were made for BMI, SBP, and DBP (Model 3), as well as FPG, HbA1c, TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, and Scr (Model 4), Helicobacter pylori infection was no longer associated with the risk of NAFLD (OR=0.9, 95% CI=0.9-1.0, P=0.097).
Conclusion: Relevant data indicates that Helicobacter pylori infection is not independently associated with the risk of NAFLD.
Mechanistic approach for removal of cyanide and phenol from coke- oven wastewater by green nano zero-valent iron mediated adsorption-biodegradation treatment system
Authors: Tyagi Megha , Jagadevan Sheeja , Kukkar Deepak
Published: August 2023

Cyanide and phenol represents the most hazardous combination of wastewater due to their synergistic toxicity. The present study investigated the efficacy of a hybrid treatment based on green nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) mediated adsorption followed by biodegradation for removal of cyanide and phenol from synthetic coke-oven wastewater. The nZVI particles were characterized using FESEM, EDX, DLS, XRD and FTIR. Response surface methodology based optimization showed 99.88% removal of cyanide (50mg/L), thereby facilitating subsequent biodegradation of phenol. Adsorption process was found to follow Langmuir isotherm model (maximum adsorption capacity = 178.8mg/g) and pseudo-second order kinetic model, suggesting cyanide adsorption is controlled by chemical ion exchange mechanism. Furthermore, biodegradation of the residual phenol was attempted by isolated bacterial strain (Pseudomonas BSPS_PHE2) that was found to be capable of 98.98% removal of phenol (1000mg/L). The metabolic pathway of phenol biodegradation was elucidated from GC-MS analysis. This study has for the first time presented a green technology based adsorbent for cyanide removal that not only provides high adsorption capacity, but also improves the biodegradability of recalcitrant coke-oven wastewater.
Research on the coordinated development of provincial urbanization and carbon emission efficiency of construction industry in China
Authors: NIU Jianguang , XIN Boxiong , XIN Boyu , WANG Mingqi
Published: August 2023

Background
The policy of energy conservation and emission reduction restricts the economic and social development of all countries in the world, and the impact on China, which has a low degree of urbanization, is more serious. As one of the industries contributing to China's urbanization process and carbon emissions, it is of great practical significance to explore the coordination relationship between urbanization and carbon emission efficiency of construction industry ( CEECI ) for realizing the goal of "double carbon", promoting urbanization construction and solving the problem of "green development". Taking 30 provinces in China as the research target area, the double weighted summation method and the undesired output super-efficiency Windows-EBM-DEA model are used to measure the provincial urbanization level and CEECI respectively. Then the coupling coordination degree model of relative development index is introduced and spatial autocorrelation model, the spatial and temporal differentiation characteristics of the coordination level of urbanization and CEECI are analyzed.
Results
The results are shown as follows: from 2010 to 2021, China's urbanization level has steadily increased, but the growth rate has gradually narrowed; the overall development of CEECI is ‘N’ type, and the inflection points appear in 2013 and 2018 respectively. There are significant differences in the level of urbanization and CEECI between provinces. The coordination level of China's urbanization and CEECI is transitioning from the running-in stage to the coordination stage. The spatial distribution pattern is in a state of dynamic change, and the overall distribution pattern is ‘high in the east, low in the middle and western regions’. The difference between provinces is obviously weakened, 63.33% of the provinces are in a high running-in level, and 93.33% of the provinces show the characteristics of efficiency lag. The spatial distribution of coordination level between provincial urbanization and CEECI is positive, and the spatial dependence of coordination level between the two systems is gradually weakened, and two convergence types of high and low are formed.
Conclusions
This study believes that China should put forward corresponding targeted coordination and optimization paths from the perspective of low-carbon development of urbanization and construction industry according to the coordination type between urbanization and CEECI, so as to achieve high-quality development of China 's economy and society.