bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental zoning based on the distribution of potentially toxic elements, risk contamination indices, and bioindicators in three areas affected by gold mining in Antioquia, Colombia
Authors: López Julián E. , Marín Juan F. , Saldarriaga Juan F.
Published: March 2024

Gold mining stands out as a primary industrial operation significantly affecting the environment, underscoring the urgency of developing strategies to enhance environmental stewardship in the impacted areas. In areas directly or indirectly affected by emissions of hazardous substances like As, Cd, Pb, and Cr, these strategies are crucial for informed decision-making. Zoning the spatial distribution of these elements and using indices and pollution bioindicators can create a diagnostic and remedial tool to address pollution concerns effectively. The aim of this study is to apply environmental zoning in three gold-mining-affected municipalities in Antioquia, Colombia. The zoning considers various factors, including i) levels of potentially toxic elements, ii) contamination indices, and iii) bioindicators. Geospatial analysis was employed to create maps illustrating the distribution of potential toxic elements, along with the indices and bioindicators utilized. The results show that the concentrations of potentially toxic elements were the lowest, even below the reference values for non-contaminated soils, in the municipality of Yalí. In contrast, most samples from Puerto Berrío and Buriticá revealed amounts of potentially toxic elements higher than the standards for uncontaminated soils. In particular, the highest contamination values for the elements Cd, Pb, and Cr were found in Puerto Berrío. The correlation study shows that concentrations of potentially toxic elements, pollution indices, and bioindicators have a substantial association (P < 0.05) (r > 0.67). The municipalities can be categorized into three zones: a highly polluted area needing remediation, a moderately polluted zone requiring natural restoration monitoring, and a low-contamination region needing conservation efforts. Overall, this zoning proposal can help competent authorities enhance environmental management strategies.
The role of NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin-2 in liver metabolic stress through regulating Pyruvate kinase M2 ubiquitination
Authors: Guo Jingru , Nie Junshu , Li Dongni , Zhang Huaixiu , Zhao Tianrui , Zhang Shoufeng , Ma Li , Lu Jingjing , Ji Hong , Tao Sha , Li Shize , xu bin
Published: March 2024

NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirt2 is involved in mammalian metabolic activities, matching energy demand with energy production and expenditure, and is relevant to a variety of metabolic diseases. Here, we constructed Sirt2 knockout and adeno-associated virus overexpression mice and found that deletion of hepatic Sirt2 accelerated primary obesity and insulin resistance in mice with concomitant hepatic metabolic dysfunction. However, the key targets of Sirt2 are unknown. We identified the M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase (PKM2) as a key Sirt2 target involved in glycolysis in metabolic stress. Through yeast two-hybrid and mass spectrometry combined with multi-omics analysis, we identified candidate acetylation modification targets of SIRT2 on PKM2 lysine 135 (K135). The Sirt2-mediated deacetylation-ubiquitination switch of PKM2 regulated the development of glycolysis. Here, we found that Sirt2 deficiency led to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance and induced primary obesity. Sirt2 severely disrupted liver function in mice under metabolic stress, exacerbated the metabolic burden on the liver, and affected glucose metabolism. Sirt2 underwent acetylation modification of lysine 135 of PKM2 through a histidine 187 enzyme active site-dependent effect and reduced ubiquitination of the K48 ubiquitin chain of PKM2. Our findings reveal that the hepatic glucose metabolism links nutrient state to whole-body energetics through the rhythmic regulation of Sirt2.
Somatic embryogenesis of slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.): initiation, maturation, germination and mycorrhization of regenerated plantlets
Authors: FEI QI , Chen You-Mei , Ke Xin , Ye Jian-Ren , Zhu Lihua
Published: March 2024

Slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.), an important economic tree species with a high resin yield, is extensively cultivated in southern China. Somatic embryogenesis (SE) technology could hasten the breeding of P. elliottii through improving seedling quality and number, but mass production of somatic embryos remains constrained by various factors. We described an efficient SE system through indirect route and investigate the effects of genotype, phytohormones and culture condition on SE. Immature zygotic embryos of three open-pollinated mother trees collected during 2020–2023 were utilized for initiation of embryogenic callus (EC). The initiation of EC was significantly influenced by seed sources (families) (p < 0.05). The addition of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (6 mg/L), 6-benzylaminopurine (1 mg/L) and kinetin (2 mg/L) effectively improved initiation rates by up to 15.67 ± 1.89%. Furthermore, glutamine addition to the maturation medium enhanced the yield of SE during culture. The optimum concentration range of activated carbon within the germination medium spanned from 3–4.5 g/L. Inoculation with ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria amethystea enhanced the root length of regenerated plantlets, reaching 7.92 ± 4.06 cm. The regenerated plantlets inoculated with mycorrhizae Pisolithus orientalis and Xerocomus chrysenteron showed improved survival during the acclimatization phase, with 100% survival of mycorrhizae-treated plantlets after 3 months of acclimatization in the greenhouse. We clarified the SE conditions suitable for P. elliottii, and the SE system and mycorrhizal method we used can be applied to mass production of plantlets.
Serological analysis in humans in Malaysian Borneo suggests prior exposure to H5 avian influenza
Authors: Klim Hannah , William Timothy , Brady Caolann , Chua Tock , Monzó Helena Brazal , Rajahram Giri , Mellors Jack , John Jecelyn , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Tipton Tom , Thompson Craig , Ahmed Kamruddin , Drakeley Chris , Carroll Miles , Fornace Kimberly
Published: March 2024

Cases of H5 highly pathogenic avian influenzas (HPAI) are on the rise. Although mammalian spillover events are rare, H5N1 viruses have an estimated mortality rate in humans of 60%. No human cases of H5 infection have been reported in Malaysian Borneo, but HPAI has circulated in poultry and migratory avian species transiting through the region. Recent deforestation in Malaysian Borneo may increase the proximity between humans and migratory birds. We hypothesise that higher rates of human-animal contact, caused by this habitat destruction, will increase the likelihood of potential zoonotic spillover events. In 2015, an environmentally stratified cross-sectional survey was conducted collecting geolocated questionnaire data in 10,100 individuals. A serological survey of these individuals reveals evidence of H5 neutralisation that persisted following depletion of seasonal H1/H3 binding antibodies from the plasma. The presence of these antibodies suggests that some individuals living near migratory sites may have been exposed to H5. There is a spatial and environmental overlap between individuals displaying high H5 binding and the distribution of migratory birds. We have developed a novel surveillance approach including both spatial and serological data to detect potential spillover events, highlighting the urgent need to study cross-species pathogen transmission in migratory zones.
Parkinson’s disease gene, Synaptojanin1, dysregulates the basal maintenance of the dopamine transporter
Authors: Pan Ping-Yue , Saenz Jacqueline , Khezerlou Elnaz , Aggarwal Meha , Shaikh Amina , Ganti Naga , Herborg Freja
Published: March 2024

Missense mutations of PARK20/SYNJ1 (synaptojanin1/Synj1) have been linked to complex forms of familial parkinsonism, however, the molecular and cellular changes associated with dopaminergic dysfunction remains unknown. We now report fast depletion of evoked dopamine (DA) and altered maintenance of the axonal dopamine transporter (DAT) in the Synj1+/- neurons. While Synj1 has been traditionally known to facilitate the endocytosis of synaptic vesicles, we demonstrated that axons of cultured Synj1+/- neurons exhibit an increase of total DAT but a reduction of the surface DAT, which could be exacerbated by neuronal activity. We revealed that the loss of surface DAT is specifically associated with the impaired 5’-phosphatase activity of Synj1 and the hyperactive downstream PI(4,5)P2-PKCbeta pathway. Thus, our findings provided important mechanistic insight for Synj1-regulated DAT trafficking integral to dysfunctional DA signaling in early parkinsonism.
Pilot trial testing the effects of exercise on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) and the interoceptive brain system
Authors: Kleckner Ian R. , Manuweera Thushini , Lin Po-Ju , Chung Kaitlin H. , Kleckner Amber S. , Gewandter Jennifer S. , Culakova Eva , Tivarus Madalina E. , Dunne Richard F. , Loh Kah Poh , Mohile Nimish A. , Kesler Shelli R. , Mustian Karen M.
Published: March 2024

Purpose. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) is a prevalent, dose-limiting, tough-to-treat toxicity involving numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities with enigmatic pathophysiology. This randomized controlled pilot study explored the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of exercise during chemotherapy on CIPN and the role of the interoceptive brain system, which processes bodily sensations.
Methods. Nineteen patients (65±11 years old, 52% women; cancer type: breast, gastrointestinal, multiple myeloma) starting neurotoxic chemotherapy were randomized to 12 weeks of exercise (home-based, individually tailored, moderate intensity, progressive walking and resistance training) or active control (nutrition education). At pre-, mid-, and post-intervention, we assessed CIPN symptoms (primary clinical outcome: CIPN-20), CIPN signs (tactile sensitivity using monofilaments), and physical function (leg strength). At pre- and post-intervention, we used task-free (“resting”) fMRI to assess functional connectivity in the interoceptive brain system, involving the salience and default mode networks.
Results. The study was feasible (74-89% complete data across measures) and acceptable (95% retention). We observed moderate/large beneficial effects of exercise on CIPN symptoms (CIPN-20, 0-100 scale: -7.9±5.7, effect size [ES]=-0.9 at mid-intervention; -4.8±7.3, -ES=0.5 at post-intervention), CIPN signs (ES=-1.0 and -0.1), and physical function (ES=0.4 and 0.3). Patients with worse CIPN after neurotoxic chemotherapy had lower functional connectivity within the default mode network (R2=40-60%) and higher functional connectivity within the salience network (R2=20-40%). Exercise tended to increase hypoconnectivity and decrease hyperconnectivity seen in CIPN (R2 = 12%).
Conclusion. Exercise during neurotoxic chemotherapy is feasible and may attenuate CIPN symptoms and signs, perhaps via changes in interoceptive brain circuitry. Future work should test for replication with larger samples. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03021174.
Hotspots and Trends in Research on clear aligner treatment: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis from 2000 to 2023
Authors: Shen Yining , Wang Rui , Zhou Yu
Published: March 2024

Background There is a surge in research on clear aligner treatment (CAT) with its growing appeal and controversy. This study presents a bibliometric analysis and visualization of CAT based on the 100 most cited articles. Methods Time confined from January 1, 2000 to September 30, 2023, using Web of Science Core Collection(WoS-CC), PubMed and Embase database as the data source, a total of 100 articles with the highest citation frequency on CAT were retrieved, and the data were analyzed by bibliometrics with the help of VOSviewer and CiteSpace. A prediction of public concern was made with the help of Google Trends and Prophet algorithm. Results There has been an overall upward trend in the quantity of publications. Notably, two out of the 23 journals published most of the 100 articles, andProgress in Orthodonticshas the highest impact factor. In terms of countries, the United States, Italy and Germany were the main contributors. The University of Turin demonstrated the highest level of activity among institutions, while Castroflorio, Tommaso emerged as the author with the highest H-index. The majority of the articles were authored in collaboration. Key research hotspots in this area include tooth movement efficiency and accuracy, material stiffness and activation time, and oral health. Public concern like improving the capacity of doctors, retainer education and so on are worthy of attention. Conclusions This paper discusses the influential journals, countries, institutions and authors in this area, and explains the research hotspots through keyword analysis. It will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and professionals interested in CAT, providing insight into current research trends and potential future directions.
Exploring the Impact of Psychological and Social Factors on Metacognitive Beliefs: A Qualitative Analysis of Caregiving Experiences for Patients with Schizophrenia in Pakistan
Authors: Chaudhary Ghinasha , Asmat Alia , Malik Anam
Published: March 2024

Metacognitive beliefs of caregivers influence the caregiving experiencing. The goal of this qualitative study is to understand the impact of psychological and social factors on metacognitive beliefs of caregivers of patients with schizophrenia by exploring into the perspectives of expert clinicians in Pakistan. Our investigation encompassed in-depth interviews with eight clinical experts comprising clinical psychologists (N = 4, possessing Higher Education Commission-recognized degrees) and psychiatrists (N = 4, certified by Pakistan Medical Commission). Collectively, these professionals possessed a wealth of knowledge exceeding five years experience in mental health profession. Thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews, conducted using NVIVO, revealed a comprehensive taxonomy of factors contributing to caregiving experiences. These encompassed catastrophic beliefs, cognitive deevaluation, cognitive flexibility, cognitive monitoring, cognitive self reliance, fixated attention, helpful metacognitive strategies, high expressed emotions, self blame and guit, unhelpful metacognitive strategies, financial burden, social avoidance and social stigma.
Systematic review of factors influencing human digestive microbiota in healthy adults and interactions between them
Authors: Pérez-Llano Begoña , Rodriguez Celia Medrano , Fraile Eduardo González
Published: March 2024

Introduction:
Human digestive microbiota is affected by a wide variety of different factors. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review that gathers and updates the information available about factors that affect human digestive microbiota in healthy adults older than 19 years. It is also reviewed the way to recover data about these factors in every study to know which of these factors are considered and if some type of interaction between them is studied.
Methods:
We systematically searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scielo, PROSPERO, and Cochrane databases for relevant articles on factors that affect human digestive microbiota. Two authors independently reviewed study eligibility and data extraction. Articles were classified based on the studied factor upon one of the following categories: diet, habits, environment, or chemical exposure.
Results:
41 of the articles included a questionnaire addressing factors affecting the human microbiota. We collected the data from the questionnaires used in these studies and analyzed the presence of data about diet, habits, environment, and exposition to chemicals.
Analysis of the studies indicates that the assessment of risk factors is often partial or focused on a specific aspect (diet, habits, environment, and chemicals). In addition, there are some factors relevant to the human digestive microbiota that are not being assessed (type of fermentation meals, UP foods consumption, vitamin D administration, snacking, intermittent fasting, the number of daily intakes, type of sport practiced, living with pets or working with another type of animals, type of transportation daily used, place of work, home cleaning habits, treatments with radiotherapy, immune suppressants, corticosteroids, and anovulatory).
Discussion:
Little is known about the impact of the combined interaction of possible risk factors (diet, habits, environment, and chemical exposure). Further studies are encouraged to evaluate more broadly the risk factors that may influence the diversity of the human digestive microbiota and their interactions.
Automatic Virtual Reduction of Unilateral Zygomatic Fractures Based on ICP Algorithm: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Liu Runqi , Jie Bimeng , Tong Yanhang , Wang Junchen , He Yang
Published: March 2024

Objective: To establish an automatic reduction method for unilateral zygomatic fractures based on Iterative Closes Point（ICP）algorithm.
Material and Methods: 60 patients with unilateral type B zygomatic fractures were included. After acquiring CT images, zygomatic fragments were segmented using self-developed software MICSys. Mid-Sagittal-Plane (MSP) was manually defined using anatomical skull landmarks. Surface of zygoma on the healthy side was then “mirrored” according to MSP. Referring to mirror model, the fragments were reduced by both automatic and manual methods. In automatic group, fragments were registered onto mirror models by ICP algorithm in MICSys. In manual group, an experienced maxillofacial surgeon translated and rotated fragments until coincided with mirror models. Operating time of each group was recorded. RMSE between reduced fragment and mirror image was calculated to evaluate accuracy. Operating time and accuracy between the two groups were compared using T-test.
Results: Virtual bone reduction was conducted for all 60 patients by the two methods. Operating time of automatic group and manual group were 3.06±1.93s and 65.45±32.19s, with significant difference (P<0.0001). RMSE of automatic group and manual group were 1.94±0.59mm and 2.33±0.57mm, with significant difference (P<0.0001).
Conclusion: Automatic reduction method based on ICP Algorithm for unilateral zygomatic fractures was initially established and clinically acceptable.
Geochemistry of Neoproterozoic metasedimentary rocks from the Mai Kenetal-Werii area, northern Ethiopia: implications for provenance and tectonic setting
Authors: Molla Misgan , Alene Mulugeta , Sano Takashi , Mengesha Hayelom
Published: March 2024

The Mai Kenetal-Werii area in northern Ethiopia consists mainly of metavolcanics, metavolcanoclastics, and metasedimentary rocks. This study investigates the provenance and depositional setting of the low-grade metasedimentary rocks of the area using whole-rock geochemistry. The major and trace element compositions were analyzed by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The chondrite-normalized rare earth element (REE) pattern shows an increase in light REEs (LaN/SmN, 0.93–4.03; average 2.24), negligible negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu*, 0.68–1.11; average 0.85), and relatively flat heavy REEs (GdN/YbN, 0.47–2.30; average 1.4). The chemical indices, such as the chemical index of alteration, plagioclase index of alteration, and chemical index of weathering, as well as the ratios of K2O/Al2O3, Rb/Sr, Th/U, and the A-CN-K (Al2O3-(CaO*+Na2O)-K2O) ternary plot, indicate that the source area of the metasedimentary rocks has undergone moderate to intense chemical weathering. The ratios of Al2O3/TiO2, La/Sc, Th/Sc, La/Co, Th/Co, and Th/U, as well as the A-CN-K ternary plot, suggest that the protoliths of the metasedimentary rocks originated from a combination of mafic and felsic igneous sources. Additionally, the Th/Sc, Zr/Sc, and SiO2/Al2O3 ratios, along with the index of compositional variation, indicate that the metasedimentary rocks were derived from a mixture of immature mafic and felsic igneous sources, first-cycle sediments with minimal recycled components. The discrimination diagrams of La-Th-Sc and Th-Sc-Zr/10 suggest that the Mai Kenetal-Werii metasedimentary rocks were deposited in an oceanic island arc setting.
Human Papillomavirus Molecular Prevalence in South China and the Impact on Vaginal Microbiome
Authors: Wang Tingting , Li Weili , Cai Mingya , Wang Yufang , Huang Nan , Jiang Yancheng , Zhang Zhishan
Published: March 2024

Background Genital HPV infection is a common public health issue that causes a huge burden with potential oncogenicities. The vaginal microbiome (VM) is associated with HPV infection and progression, but a thorough understanding of the relation between different types of HPV infection and VM needs to be elucidated.
Methods From August to December 2022, women who underwent routine gynecological examinations were screened for HPV infection. The distribution of HPV variants was recorded, and clinical characteristics were collected. Then, a total of 185 participants were enrolled and divided into HPV-negative (HC), high-risk HPV (H), low-risk HPV (L), and multiple HPV (M) groups. Samples were collected from the mid-vagina and sent for 16S rDNA sequencing (V3-V4 region).
Results A total of 712 women were HPV positive, with an average age of 39.34 ±13.3. The top 3 most frequently detected genotypes were HPV52, HPV58, and HPV16. The HPV-positive groups had significantly different diversity compared to the HC group (p=0.001). LEfSe analysis showed that g_Ochrobactrum might be a potential biomarker of the HC group, while g_Lactobacillus and g_Garderella might be that of the H group. L and M groups were characterized by g_Sneathia and g_Prevotella, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that Garderella was enriched in patients with cervical lesions.
Conclusion Different HPV infections had distinct vaginal microbiome features. This study might throw light on the association between vaginal microbiome and HPV infection, as well as the mechanisms of different genital HPV acquisition and progression, which may pave the way for novel therapy development.
Exploring The Relationship Between Dietary Patterns and Obesity Among Nigerian Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Segun Asaolu , Zhang Bo , Mary Abiona Modupe , Kibenja Dennis , Ma Jie , Said Self , Adeniyi Idowu , Barrow Lamin F
Published: March 2024

Background/Objective: No previous study has investigated the association between dietary pattern and both general and abdominal obesity risk among adult in Nigeria. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between dietary patterns and the risk of obesity in the city of Iyin Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria.
Methods and Study Designs: A total of 1003 adults were included in this cross-sectional study (males = 558; females = 445). BMI and WHR were used to access general and abdominal obesity respectively and they were categorized using WHO recommendation. Partial correlation analyses were performed to assess the associations between dietary patterns an BMI and WHR. Prevalence ratio between dietary pattern and both general and abdominal obesity were calculated using Robust Poisson Regression.
Results: The prevalence of general obesity among adults was 15.9%, (11.6% among men and 20.2% among women); abdominal obesity was 28.9% among males and 44.5% among females. Four dietary pattern was identified; diversified traditional pattern; typical traditional pattern; milk and bread pattern and egg and fish pattern. Diversified traditional pattern was negatively associated with BMI (PR = 0.571, 95%CI: 0.360~0.905, p = 0.017), and typical traditional pattern was positively associated with BMI (PR = 1.561, 95% CI: 1.043~2.339, p = 0.031) and WHR in females (PR = 1.849, 95% CI: 1.256~2.721, p = 0.005). In comparison to those in the lowest quartile, adults with the highest quartile of the typical traditional pattern had a higher risk for abdominal obesity (PR = 1.849, 95%CI = 1.256 ~ 2.721, p = 0.020).
Conclusion: This study reports an alarming increase in Obesity prevalence among Nigeria adults which is greatly influence by their lifestyle and eating pattern. We found out that a typical traditional food pattern was associated with a higher risk of both general and abdominal obesity, but a diverse traditional food pattern was associated to a reduced risk of general obesity.
Research on the dynamic development of Bed-Separations and ground subsidence based on large-deflection inclined thin-plate model
Authors: Li Yaxing , Yang Keming , WEI Xiang-ping , JIANG Ke-gui , TANG Wei
Published: March 2024

Coal mining under the Quaternary thick loose layer makes unique patterns of rock destruction. These patterns directly affect direct and main roof breakage, key strata flexural breakage, Bed-Separations development, ground subsidence, and other studies. In this paper, we developed an approach to solving the deflection of thin plates with additional lateral load and mid-plane force. The dynamic mechanical model of key strata deflection caused by dip coal seams with a thick loose layer is also established. The methods presented are based on the principle of large-deflection of thin-plate, energy method, and fracture mechanics theory. The 7225 work face in Anhui Province, China, was studied. The key strata deflection parameters in the study area were obtained, including 1) the initial and periodic incoming pressure steps of the roof, 2) the height of the caved zone, fractured zone, and continuous bending zone, and 3) the development of height and volume of Bed-Separations. The ground subsidence pattern was revealed as well. The dynamic development of the principal key strata (PKS) calculated by the proposed model is verified with the 3DEC numerical simulation. Meanwhile, 16 Sentinel 1-A images covering the mining period were collected, and the Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique was applied to monitor the mining subsidence. It is also cross-validated with the model-calculated subsidence and field measurements. The results showed that the proposed model could contribute to the quantitative analysis of key strata deflection breakage, Bed-Separations development, and ground subsidence caused by excavating inclined coal seams when a thick loose layer covers.
Association Between Depression and Subjective Well-being in older patients with Chronic Diseases in Rural Ethnic Areas of Qiannan, Guizhou: The Mediating Role of Social Support
Authors: Li Zhonglian , Qin Suxian , Zhu Yafen , Zhou Quanxiang , Yi Aijing , Mo Caiyun , Gao Jun , Chen Juhai , Wang Tianhui , Feng Zhanhui , Mo Xiangang
Published: March 2024

Objective: To explore the associations among social support, depression, and subjective well-being in older patients with chronic diseases in the rural ethnic regions of Qiannan, Guizhou.
Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled oder patients with chronic diseases in Qiannan, Guizhou between June and September 2022. The social support, depression, and subjective well-being were assessed by a self-developed questionnaire on general information, the social support rating scale (SSRS), the geriatric depression scale (GDS-15), and the Memorial University of Newfoundland Happiness Scale (MUNSH), respectively.
Results: A total of 2,156 participants (1,104 males; average age of 71.15±8.04) were included. Their mean SSRS and MUNSH scores were 34.96±7.98 and 27.17±9.48, respectively. The GDS-15 score was 7.23±2.59, with 1529 individuals (70.9%) having depressive symptoms. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that mild depression (B = -7.795, 95% CI: -8.437 to -7.153, P < 0.001), moderate to severe depression (B = -11.631, 95% CI: -12.623 to -10.639, P < 0.001), and moderate social support (B = -2.661, 95% CI: -4.063 to -1.259, P < 0.001) were independently associated with subjective well-being. The structural equation model results revealed that the total effect of depression symptoms on subjective well-being in elderly patients with chronic diseases is -0.528, with a direct effect of -0.474 (95% CI: -0.503 to -0.443), accounting for 89.77% of the total effect. The mediating effect of social support on the association between depression and subjective well-being is -0.133 (95% CI: -0.070 to -0.041), constituting 10.23% of the total effect.
Conclusions: Older patients with chronic diseases in the rural ethnic areas of Qiannan, Guizhou, exhibited a high prevalence of depressive symptoms and low levels of subjective well-being. Social support partially mediated the association between depression and subjective well-being in this population. Thus, proactive measures are warranted to fortify the social support system for older patients with chronic diseases in Qiannan, Guizhou.
Molecular Evidence of high prevalence of Wolbachia Species in Wild-Caught Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes on Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea
Authors: Giger Johanna N. , Hosch Salome , von Planta Nele G. , Bela Nestor Rivas , Fuseini Godwin , Oyana Raul Nguema Ncogo , Houag Mathias Leonard , Efiri Prudencio Bibang Engono , Maye Valeriano Oluy Nsue , García Guillermo A. , Phiri Wonder P. , Schindler Tobias , Daubenberger Claudia
Published: March 2024

Background: Distribution of Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti are currently unknown on Bioko Island Equatorial Guinea.
Methods: Aedes spp. were collected between February 2020 and August 2021 on Bioko Island as a by-product of malaria vector entomological surveillance. The mosquitoes were transferred to Switzerland. Utilizing qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) on extracted nucleic acids, the mosquitoes were distinguished between A. albopictus and A. aegypti. Subsequently, the host species of their last blood meal was identified. Metagenomic analyses of potential pathogens were performed using Oxford Nanopore sequencing. A qPCR assay to detect Wolbachia was developed and used to screen Aedes spp.
Results: A. albopictusrepresents the dominant Aedes species on Bioko Island. Aedes spp. mosquitoes predominately fed on humans, few A. albopictus positive pools additionally contained blood meals from dog or chicken. Eight out of nine tested Aedesspp. pools contained DNA sequences that matched to Wolbachia spp. assessed by metagenomics. The remaining 72 pools were tested by qPCR for presence of Wolbachiaspp. DNA. In total, 87% of all samples tested were positive for Wolbachia spp. A. albopictus seemed to be significantly more affected by Wolbachiaspp. than A. aegypti.
Conclusions: A. albopictus has become the dominant Aedes species on Bioko Island and can be found in all four districts. Wolbachiaspp. endosymbionts seem to be more prevalent in A. albopictus compared to A. aegypti. The impact of Wolbachiaspp. presence on potential transmission of Flaviviruses in these different local mosquito populations warrants further investigation.
Effect of rural-to-urban migration on the healthcare utilisation of middle-aged and elderly adults: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Xu Lu , Bi Shengxian , Yang Songhao , Guo Dandan , Tan Huawei , li Lei , Yang Qijiao , Peng Xinyi , Zhang Xueyu , Chen Yingchun
Published: March 2024

Background: An increasing number of middle-aged and elderly adults are migrating from rural to urban areas for employment, to care for their younger generation and due to old age. As these age groups move into urban areas, their healthcare service utilisation are directly related to their health status and basic rights to survival. It also places higher demands on China’s healthcare service provision. This study aims to investigate the effect of middle-aged and elderly adults migrating from rural to urban areas on their healthcare service utilisation.
Methods: Panel data from Wave 3 (2015), Wave 4 (2018) and Wave 5 (2020) of the nationally representative China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were selected to obtain a sample of 456 participants in the treatment group and 9171 participants in the control group. The difference-in-differences propensity score matching estimator method was used to explore the effect of migrating to a city on the utilisation of healthcare services amongst middle-aged and elderly adults.
Results: Calliper nearest-neighbour matching significantly improved overall balance after matching. The DID regression results showed that middle-aged and elderly adults significantly reduced their number of hospitalisations when they moved to a city, with a DID value of −0.093 (p<0.05). However, no significant effect was observed on the number of outpatient visits (p>0.05). The DID results were consistent with the robustness test. Further examination of heterogeneity determined that it had a more significant negative effect on the number of hospitalisationsamongst individuals aged 45–59 years, of rural hukou status and with poor self-assessed health status.
Conclusion: Middle-aged and elderly migrants moving to cities may reduce their healthcare utilisation. The government should improve its outpatient reimbursement policy and the policy of medical treatment in other places; encourage the society, community and family to give more attention to middle-aged and elderly adults migrating to cities; improve their health literacy and help them set up the correct concept of medical service utilisation to promote the health equity of migrant populations.
Advancing Key Expansion Techniques: Integrating Cross-Coupled Map Lattice and Dynamic S- Box for Superior Cryptographic Security
Authors: Li Yuxuan
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the security loopholes inherent in the traditional Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) key expansion mechanism, notably its sequential and reversible configuration that permits the derivation of subsequent round keys from any obtained round key. To counteract these vulnerabilities, we introduce a novel key expansion strategy that leverages dynamic Substitution-boxes (S-boxes) alongside the innovative application of cross-coupled lattice mapping. Our approach includes the development of a new one-dimensional chaotic map integrated into the cross-coupled map lattice to enhance its chaotic dynamics. Utilizing this enhanced lattice, we devise a dynamic S-box generation method. This method, rooted in the cross-coupled lattice mapping of a spatiotemporal chaotic system, yields an S-box with unique security features. Rigorous testing and validation demonstrate the S-box's superior defense against a broad spectrum of cryptographic threats. Furthermore, by embedding cross-coupled lattice mapping into the key expansion routine, we elevate the algorithm's complexity and render it non-reversible. This iterative implementation of the lattice mapping negates the possibility of deducing any round key or the original key from a single round key. Exhaustive experimental analyses validate the proposed key expansion algorithm's independence and adaptability, underscoring its improved security capabilities. The algorithm exhibits robust resistance to conventional side-channel and differential attacks, performing exceptionally in real-world application scenarios. Our study delivers a groundbreaking key expansion methodology that significantly enhances cryptographic security, offering a substantial contribution to the encryption domain and strengthening the overall security infrastructure of encryption algorithms.
Synthesis and Improving the Crystallinity of a Squaranine Covalent Organic Framework by Investigating the Co-Catalyst Effect and Using It as a green and Metal-Free Catalyst for the synthesis of enaminones
Authors: Ramezani M. Sadegh , Safaei Sadegh , Goodarzi Zahra , Moradi Mahsa
Published: March 2024

Herein, a modified synthesis method was presented and the effect of using an aqueous acetic acid solution in the process of synthesizing SQCOF was investigated. The addition of a catalytic amount of aqueous acetic acid solution as a co-catalyst has contributed to improved crystallinity quality. Effective parameters of the acid catalyst and the solvent were optimized and the synthesized SQCOF was used as a metal-free catalyst with Bronsted acid groups in the condensation reaction between 1,3-dicarbonyl groups and primary amines. This COF performs excellently as an acidic catalyst with a highly crystalline structure. SQCOF was applied in solvent-free conditions to synthesize enaminones at ambient temperature by gentle manual grinding with a pestle and mortar. High performance and efficiency (62 to 96 %), high TOF (833 to 1283 h-1), short reaction time, easy workup, elimination of toxic organic solvents, removal of metaled catalysts, and green conditions are the main advantages of this study. SQCOF shows good chemical stability and recyclability (7 runs) and acted as a successful catalyst in the synthesis of enaminones.
Upcycling of tetra pack waste cellulose into reducing sugars for bioethanol production using Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rinki . , Yadav Pooja , Sharma Aditya , Dahiya Pushpak , Kumar Aakash , Walia Abhishek , Bhatt Arvind Kumar , Bhatia Ravi Kant
Published: March 2024

Bioethanol production from waste materials offers a promising avenue for sustainable energy and waste management. In this study, fermentable sugars derived from tetra pack waste cellulose were biotransformed into bioethanol using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Tetra pack waste (180 g) yielded tetra pack cellulosic pulp (TPCP) of 145 g, after removing the different layers representing 80.56±0.32% of the original weight. Cellulase from Bacillus sp. RL-07, with a cellulolytic potential of 6.98±0.36 U/ml, released 32.72±0.12 mg/ml of reducing sugars, achieving 44.60±0.56% saccharification of TPCP under optimized conditions. Subsequent fermentation of the broth (1 L) with tetra pack cellulosic pulp hydrolysate (TPCPH) (50% v/v), containing 5.12 g of reducing sugars, by S. cerevisiaeyielded 1.42 g of bioethanol per g of reducing sugars under optimized conditions, with a volume productivity of 0.24 g/l/h and a purity of 96.42% was confirmed by GC/MS analysis. The findings of this research demonstrated the potential of tetra pack waste for bioethanol production, contributing to sustainable waste management, addressing energy shortages, and mitigating environmental pollution, thereby supporting goals of sustainable growth and development.
The Study on Deformation and Mechanical Properties of Surrounding Rock to Primary Arch Cover Met
Authors: Hao Ziyi
Published: March 2024

In order to explore the stress and deformation mechanism of surrounding rock in the construction process of the primary arch cover method, the finite difference method is used to simulate the construction process of the primary arch cover method of shallow buried large section hard rock tunnel. Combined with the monitoring data of the project site, the stress and deformation law of the tunnel surrounding rock under the influence of time and space effect are analyzed. In addition, the excavation process of the double-layer superimposed primary arch cover method and the traditional arch cover method is compared. Based on the stress and deformation characteristics of the tunnel surrounding rock, the technical advancement of the double-layer primary arch cover method is quantified. The results show that after the tunnel excavation is completed, the vertical displacement of the tunnel surrounding rock is mainly concentrated in the vault and arch bottom of the tunnel. The maximum uplift displacement is 7.263 mm and the maximum subsidence displacement is 14.09 mm. The settlement of the tunnel vault is roughly divided into three stages: slow settlement, rapid settlement and settlement stability; it can be seen from the comprehensive longitudinal span and section monitoring data that the double-layer superimposed primary arch cover method can better reduce the deformation of surrounding rock and increase the stability of the tunnel during excavation.
Safety Evaluation for Nickel Release of Nickel–Titanium alloys Cardiovascular stents
Authors: Liu Bin , Hu Yafan , Xu Kai , Zhang Bo , Liu Dong , Wu Changyan , Han Xiuyun , Han Peng , Lu Jian , Han Naishui
Published: March 2024

Nickel (Ni) is a major element of several alloys for implantable cardiovascular devices (stents and blockers).Due to the lack of reliable research models, there is no domestic and international evaluation system for Ni release in the medical device field before 2018.Now, there are some standards such as ASTM F3306-19 and ISO 10993 appeared. They should help us to control and analyze the Ni ion release from the implant medical devices. But all these standards are short of a solution that it can take the place of the complex simulated body solutions and blood, serum. Our aim is to discover the easy solution. It should make the evaluation of Ni release easy to do. Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) cardiovascular alloy products with registration certificate in National Medical Product Administration in China were chosen as samples in the investigation. In this study, C, H, N, O was measured by oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen elements analyzer and mental element content was determined by Electron - coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). While corrosion resistance was evaluated by electrochemistry. Ni release curves were plotted by measuring the amount of Ni released from seven extraction media. All the metallic and non-metallic content of samples were qualified with GB24627-2009. Wilcoxon Test showed that HCl was identified as a possible alternative to blood. The extraction medium was determined to be 10mL 0.005% HCl with a limit 50μg /d while time was 7 consecutive days with the temperature at 37°C.It was proved with a high degree of specificity and reliability. The evaluation guideline provides technical support for the review and regulatory authorities, and is of great significance in improving the quality and safety of such products, providing guidance for the standardized development of the Ni-Ti alloy cardiovascular product industry in China, with significant social benefits.
An expert consensus on prevention, diagnosis and management of hemorrhagic cystitis in pediatric hematopoietic cell transplantation, on behalf of the Infectious Disease and Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Working groups of Italian Pediatric Hematology Oncolo-gy Association (AIEOP)
Authors: Dell'Orso Gianluca , Carlucci Marcello , Cesaro Simone , Olcese Evelina , Balduzzi Adriana , Vendemini Francesca , Catti Massimo , Saglio Francesco , Compagno Francesca , Maximova Natalia , Rabusin Marco , Menconi Maria Cristina , Perruccio Katia , Soncini Elena , Tambaro Francesco Paolo , tintori Veronica , Pagliara Daria , Faraci Maura
Published: March 2024

The optimal management of hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is debated, both for early onset HC (EOHC) secondary to chemotherapy toxicity and BK PolyomaVirus (BKPyV)-related HC, due to the lack of controlled trials, particularly referred to pediatric setting. Actually, clinical practice is mainly based on guidelines of European Conference on Infections in Leukemia, 6th edition, which consider both adult and pediatric population but conclude that, despite much progress in understanding the pathogenesis, epidemiology and risk factors, this complication still represents a disabling unmet clinical need with limited prophylactic and therapeutic options. Additionally, guidelines of American Society of Clinical Oncology define the management of chemotherapeutic toxicity independently from the patients’ population. A panel of experts belonging to the Hematopoietic Cell Transplant and Infectious Disease Working Group (WG) of Associazione Italiana di Emato-Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP) developed a consensus to define the best practices in prevention, diagnosis, and management of HC in pediatric HCT setting.
Suppression of AQP7 is Crucial for Proliferation and Lipid Metabolism in ccRCC
Authors: Zhao Jun , Wang Rui , Jin Jiacheng , Bi Yingwei , Chen Xue , Wang Jianbo
Published: March 2024

Background: It is well-established that reprogramming of lipid metabolism is a feature of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), which also acts as a driving force in oncogenesis induced by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) in ccRCC. Aquaporin 7 (AQP7), a channel facilitates glycerol to pass through the membrane and induces a decrease in triglycerides (TGs) and glycerol in adipocytes. However, whether AQP7 takes a part in the lipid metabolism and malignant behaviors of ccRCC is still unclear.
Methods: The prognosis and diagnostic value of AQP7 in ccRCC were first evaluated by bioinformatics methods including TCGA database, Cox regression, etc. The expression of AQP7 was tested with tissue microarray and IHC. After AQP7 was stably upregulated by lentivirus transfection, cell viability, colony formation, and flow cytometry were performed. According to GSEA, Nile red staining was then used to detect lipid droplet accumulation, and relevant mechanisms and pathways were verified through Western blotting and qPCR.
Results: AQP7 was suppressed in both TCGA and the tissue microarray cohort, and the prognosis was worse for patients with lower AQP7 levels, including OS, DSS and PFI. Multiple lipid metabolism pathways, especially the PPARα pathway, were activated in the cohort with high AQP7 expression based on gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Moreover, AQP7 overexpression in ccRCC inhibited the proliferation ability, reduced the TG and glycerol contents, and led to cell cycle arrest. As a crucial transcription factor relevant to lipid metabolism, the ability of PPARα to bind to PPRE and the expression levels of PPARα, were both upregulated by AQP7 overexpression, as was the expression of a series of genes targeted by PPARα. Furthermore, downregulating HIF-1β and HIF-2α could elevate the expression levels of AQP7 and PPARα in ccRCC.
Conclusions: AQP7 is suppressed in ccRCC and AQP7 may be a promising prognostic marker for the disease. Suppression of AQP7 in ccRCC contributes to lipid metabolism and cell cycle acceleration. The HIF/AQP7/PPARα axis might be an avenue for ccRCC treatment targeting lipid metabolism.
Effects of prehabilitation concurrent exercise on functional capacity in colorectal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Maroto-Izquierdo Sergio , Bautista Iker J. , Menéndez Héctor , Pinto-Fraga Jose , Simò Vicente , Aldecoa César
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Preoperative fitness level is associated with surgical complications and long-term function after major surgery in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Exercise-based prehabilitation may represents a feasible strategy to improve preoperative functional and cardiometabolic outcomes. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the efficacy of concurrent exercise (i.e., aerobic and strength exercise) during prehabilitation programs on functional capacity assessed through the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) in comparison with standard cancer care strategies in CRC patients scheduled for surgery.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was performed. A search of electronic databases [PubMed, Web of Science and EBSCO Host] was conducted to identify all publications employing concurrent exercise in CRC patients up to April 5, 2023. 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Random-effects meta-analysis were used to calculate the standardized change of mean difference (SCMD) and 95% CI between exercise intervention and control groups for 6MWT distance covered before and after prehabilitation.
Results: Concurrent training during prehabilitation led to significant positive effects on 6MWT (0.28 SCMD [0.03 to 0.54], p=0.037). Sub-group analyses showed higher SCMD (0.48 [0.00 to 0.98]) in younger (i.e., <70 years) CRC patients compared to CRC older patients (0.10 [0.08 to 0.11]). Meta-regression models between SCMD of 6MWT and body mass index, prehabilitation program duration, and baseline 6MWT distance covered did not show any significant relationship. Only age variable shared 54% of variance with SCMD of 6MWT, but without statistical significance (p = 0.076).
Conclusions: This meta-analysis provides evidence supporting the superiority of prehabilitation programs that implement concurrent exercise compared with standard cancer care strategies to promote functional changes, which are well-related with cardiometabolic status and lower post-operation risk in CRC patients.