bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. volatile oil ameliorates depressive behaviors and inhibits neuroinflammation in CUMS-exposed mice by inhibiting the TLR4-medicated MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Bo , Shi Kaifang , Wang Ruixuan , Lin Fei , Yan Tingxu , Jia Ying
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to explore the antidepressant effect and underlying mechanism of the Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. volatile oil (AOVO) in mice exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). C57BL/6 mice were grouped and administered with different dosages of AOVO (0.25, 0.50, 1.00, or 2.00 mL/kg body weight, i.g.), TAK242 (a TLR4 inhibitor, 0.75 mg/kg body weight, i.p.), or TAK242 (0.75 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) + AOVO (0.50 mL/kg body weight, i.g.) for 21 days. Depression-like symptoms in the mice were then evaluated through their body weight gain (BW), the open field test (OFT), the sucrose preference test (SPT), the novelty-suppressed feeding test (NSFT), and forced swimming test (FST). The concentrations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and 5-hydroxytyrptamine (5-HT) in the mice were determined using ELISA kits. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) dying were performed for histopathological examination. The expression of inflammatory proteins was assessed through western blotting (WB) and immunofluorescence staining. AOVO was found to improve the behavioral indexes of CUMS-exposed mice behavioral and synergize TAK242 to mitigate both their depressive symptoms and neuroinflammation. Moreover, AOVO was found to inhibit the hippocampal damage, decrease inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF), and downregulate the expression of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins in the hippocampus of CUMS-exposed mice. These findings demonstrate that AOVO can ameliorate depressive behaviors and mitigate neuroinflammation in the CUMS-exposed mice via suppressing the TLR4-medicated MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Efficacy of dapagliflozin in the treatment of HFrEF with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (DAHOS study): study protocol for a multicentric, prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Xie Liang , Li Shengnan , Wei Qin , Liu Hong , Zhao Chao , Yu Fuchao , Tong Jiayi
Published: November 2022

Background: Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is associated with sleep disapnea (SDB), which plays an adverse role in the pathophysiology of the condition. SDB management in HFrEF, however, remains controversial. HFrEF's medical management has recently made significant progress with the discovery of new therapeutic avenues, namely sodia-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, and better treatment of co-morbidities. Dapagliflozin, one of the SGLT-2 inhibitors, is a good candidate for correcting SDB of HFrEF patients because their known mechanisms of action are likely to counteract the pathophysiology of SDB in HFrEF.
Methods/design: The trial is a 3-month, multicentric, prospective, randomized controlled clinical study. Patients (i.e. adults with left ventricular ejection fraction≤40%, Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index≥15) will be randomized to receive optimized heart failure therapy plus a standard dose of dapagliflozin while the control group will receive only optimized heart failure therapy. Patients will be evaluated before and after 3 months(nocturnal ventilatory polygraphy, echocardiography, laboratory testing, and quality-of-life and SDB questionnaires). The primary outcome is the change in the Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index, before and after 3 months of treatment.
Trial registration: www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2100049834. Registered 10 August 2021.
Continuous-mode quantum key distribution with digital signal processing
Authors: Chen Ziyang , Wang Xiangyu , Yu Song , Li Zhengyu , Guo Hong
Published: November 2022

Continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) offers extraordinary superiority of sharing keys remotely by the use of standard telecom components, thereby promoting cost-effective and high-performance metropolitan applications. On the other hand, high-rate introduced spectrum broadening has pushed CVQKD from single-mode to continuous-mode region, resulting in the adoption of modern digital signal processing (DSP) technologies to recover quadrature information from continuous-mode quantum states. However, the security proof of DSP involving multi-point processing is a missing step. Here we propose a generalized method of analyzing continuous-mode states processing by linear DSP via temporal-modes theory. The construction of temporal modes plays a key role in reducing the security proof to single-mode scenarios. The proposed practicality-oriented security analysis method paves the way to build classical compatible digital CVQKD.
Discrepancies among hospital physicians regarding the Do Not Attempt Resuscitation order and its interpretation
Authors: Keränen Tapani , Kuusisto Hanna
Published: November 2022

Background
A Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order is one of the most important medical decisions in providing adequate end-of-life care. There is variation in national and local policies of making a DNAR order in spite of the recent European guidelines. Physicians in general perceive challenges in making a DNAR order. However, possible variation across different clinical specialties is not known.
Methods
A link to the web-based multiple-choice questionnaire (Webropol) was sent by e-mail to all physicians and nurses working in the Tampere University Hospital special responsibility area covering a catchment area of 900,000 Finns. The questionnaire, developed by the authors, covered issues on DNAR order making, its meaning and documentation. Participants responded anonymously.
Results
In total, 934 subjects responded, of which 216 (23%) were physicians covering all specialties. A total of 154 (71%) of respondents were specialists and 62 (29%) were physicians in training. The responses of physicians were categorized into six categories according to clinical specialty: anesthesiology and intensive care unit (ICU), conservative departments, surgical departments, oncology, pediatrics and pediatric neurology, and psychiatry. In total, 63% of doctors in oncology and 73% in pediatric/pediatric neurology departments correctly recognized that a DNAR order relates only to cardiopulmonary resuscitation, while only 27–46% of physicians in anesthesiology or ICU, conservative and surgical departments, and psychiatry correctly recognized the meaning of DNAR. Challenges in interpreting the meaning of the DNAR order had been experienced by 62% of physicians in anesthesiology/ICU, 66% in conservative departments and 49% in operative departments, whereas frequencies were lower in oncological, pediatric/pediatric neurology and psychiatric departments (36–38%). Training in making a DNAR order was considered adequate by 66% of physicians in anesthesiology, 87% in oncology, and by only 20–56% of doctors in other specialties.
Conclusion
Our findings show specialty-related variation among hospital physicians in the interpretation of the scope of the DNAR order and who should be included in the decision-making process. There is need for further training in making a DNAR order in major hospital specialties.
Prevalence and predictors of depression among women in Afghanistan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Neyazi Ahmad , Haidarzada Ahmad Shoaib , Rangelova Vanya , Erfan Adiba , Bashiri Bahara , Neyazi Mehrab , Faizi Naweed , Konşuk-Ünlü Hande , Saokaew Surasak , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: November 2022

Background
Depression is a very common mental health illness characterized by a cluster of signs and symptoms ranging from mood disturbances and sleep or appetite disorders to physical manifestations of the body. The present study estimated the prevalence of depression and its related factors among Afghan women.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among women between July 14, 2021, to August 15, 2021, in Kabul, Mazar-e-Sharif and Samangan provinces (Afghanistan). A total of 664 Afghan women participated in the study (mean age = 28.85 years; SD ± 11.57). In order to assess depression among participants, the 19-item validated Dari version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale was used.
Results
Approximately four-fifths of the sample had depression symptoms (79.1%). Participants with depression symptoms were significantly more likely to (i) be aged over 30 years, (ii) live in rural areas, (iii) have a low-income level, (iv) not have an occupation, (v) have any disease/illness, and (vi) have experienced an event that had mentally affected them in the past month.
Conclusion
Considering the high prevalence of depression among Afghan women, there is a need to integrate mental health services for women in Afghanistan. The use of interventions including regular screening for depression symptoms, and educating women and girls concerning the symptoms of depression for early self-diagnosis are essential.
C:N:P stoichiometry and nutrient resorption in mixed-species and monoculture forest plantations on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Lu Senbao , Chen Yunming , Sardans Jordi , Penuelas Josep
Published: November 2022

Effects of mixed-species on leaf and soil stoichiometry of nitrogen (N), carbon (C), and phosphorous (P) and foliar nutrient resorption efficiency are unclear. We analyzed the effects of stand structure, understory plant species diversity, and soil properties associated with mixed plantations ofRobinia pseudoacacia + Amygdalus davidiana(RPAD) andR. pseudoacacia + Armeniaca sibirica(RPAS) and monocultures ofR. pseudoacacia(RP);A. davidiana(AD), andA. sibirica(AS) on tree leaf and soil C:N:P stoichiometry, resorption efficiency of N (NRE) and P (PRE) on the Loess Plateau. The soil total C content in RPAD and soil total N content in RPAS were greater than for monocultures RP, AD, and AS. The highest soil C:N and C:P ratios were recorded from RPAD and the lowest were recorded from RPAS; leaf P content was greater in RPAD than RP and AD, while leaf C:N and C:P ratios were lower. NRE and PRE was lower in the mixed plantations than in RP, and PRE was lower in RPAS than in RPAD. Stoichiometry of leaf and soil C:N:P in the mixed and monoculture plantations was affected by stand and canopy densities, average tree height (AH), soil available P, and electrical conductivity. NuRE was positively correlated with leaf N content and N:P ratios, and AH, and negatively correlated with leaf C:N ratios and soil total P content. The planting of RPAD mixed plantation to increase productivity and to improve biogeochemical cycling and contribute to the restoration of ecosystem function.
Scientific practice promotes the learning of course “R&D of New drugs” in clinical pharmacy undergraduate
Authors: Ge Jinfang , Zhu Maozong , Wen Jiagen , Wu Fanrong , Lu Weili , Meng Xiaoming , Xie Xuefeng , Chen Feihu
Published: November 2022

We investigated the effect of scientific practice on the learning outcome in course “Research and Development of New Drugs” via analyzing the performance of 232 bachelor of clinic pharmacy degree (BCPharm) undergraduates. The results showed that the scores of BCPharm undergraduates with scientific practice were significantly higher than that of the controls, regardless of grade or gender. Moreover, there are more female BCPharm undergraduates than male participated in the scientific practice. These results indicated that scientific practice had a promoting effect for BCPharm undergraduates to learn the course “R&D of New drugs”.
Hypercoagulability: A Possible Mechanism for Acute Ischemic Stroke with Non-transfusion-dependent β Thalassemia
Authors: Zhou Guo-qiu , Chen Li-jie , Li Xiao-ling , Wu Xiao-ju , Mo Dong-can , Jiang Yi-ying , Hong Zhao-ju , Luo Man
Published: November 2022

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT), expecting to provide evidence and clues for the potential associations of AIS with NTDT.
Methods: We recruited 28 AIS patients with NTDT from October 1, 2007, to June 1, 2022 as the case group. The case group patients were individually categorized into non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group and non-transfusion dependent α-thalassemia group. Clinical and biological findings were compared between the case group and a consecutive cohort of 76 non-thalassemia patients who were admitted for an AIS during January 1, 2021, and January 31, 2021.
Results: Compared to the control group, the non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group had significantly higher levels of D-dimer, fibrinogen, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and serum ferritin on admission (all p＜0.05). The primary ischemic stroke etiological subtype in the non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group was small vessel occlusion (SVO) which was significantly higher than that the controls (77.3% vs. 30.3%, p=0.001). Fasting blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels on admission were significantly lower in the non-transfusion dependent α-thalassemia group when compared to those in the non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group and in the control group (all p＜0.05).
Conclusion: The level of D-dimer and fibrinogen were significantly higher in the non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group than those in the control group, suggesting that AIS patients with non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia may have a hypercoagulable state. The most common ischemic stroke etiological subtype in the non-transfusion dependent β-thalassemia group was SVO.
Analysis of the therapeutic effect of holmium laser intervention on patients with complicated kidney stones and the relationship between serum LncRNA TapSAKI, MCP-1,IL-6 and prognosis of patients
Authors: Wang Daya , Li Zhijia , Chen Jianmin , Chen Ximeng
Published: November 2022

Backgroud:In order to analyze the therapeutic effect of holmium laser intervention on patients with complicated kidney stones and the relationship between serum LncRNA TapSAKI, MCP-1,IL-6 and prognosis of patients, the clinical efficacy of holmium laser interventional Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) for patients with complicated kidney stones is investigated.Methods:A total of 116 patients with complicated kidney stones admitted to the Department of Urology of our hospital from June 2020 to June 2021 for surgical intervention are selected. Holmium laser combined with mPCNL and open nephrolithotomy group are established according to different surgical intervention methods, and the differences of serum LncRNA TapSAKI, MCP-1 and IL-6 indexes are observed.Results:Pearson correlation coefficient is used to analyze the correlation between serum LncRNA TapSAKI and MCP-1 and IL-6 in patients with complicated kidney stones. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis shows that serum LncRNA TapSAKI is significantly positively correlated with MCP-1 and IL-6 in patients with complicated kidney stones.Conclusion:It is clearly evident thatHolmium laser combined with mPCNL in the treatment of complicated kidney stones has advantages of high stone clearance rate, reduced risk of complications, and high safety in clinical application.
Lipid Metabolism Biomarkers in Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Pălărie Natalia , Pavlovschi Ecaterina , Lazăr Cornelia , Pălărie Victor , Palii Natalia , Rotaru³ Irina , Tagadiuc Olga
Published: November 2022

Background. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common ocular complication of diabetes mellitus, as well as the most prevalent cause for irreversible vision loss in working-age population.
The aim of the study was to analyze the association between DR in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), some lipid biomarkers changes, as well as to highlight the possible correlation.
Methods. A total of 72 T1DM patients were included in this study. The enrolled participants were assigned into three groups, based on the results of fundus photographs as following: 1st group - no DR, 2nd group - non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), and 3rd group - proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Serum lipids: triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and lipoprotein (a) (Lp (a)) were measured at the baseline.
Results. The data revealed no difference in TG serum levels in patients of the 1st and 2nd groups. The increase of TG serum levels was identified with the progression of the DR in the 3rd group (+121%, p=0.018). TC also rose in patients in the 3rd study group (+19%, p>0.05 compared to the 1st and 2nd study groups). An increase of Lp (a) was highlighted with the evolution of DR: in the 2nd group (+73%, p>0.05) and in the 3rd group (by about 320%, p=0.019) compared to 1st study group. The correlation analysis revealed a weak positive correlation between the grade of DR and Lp (a) levels (rs=0.319, p=0.006), and TG (rs=0.239, p=0.043).
Conclusion. Our study exposed statistically significant modifications of the TG and Lp (a) levels correlated with the DR grade and a non-significant increase in TC level in T1DM persons. Our data indicate a likely involvement of lipid metabolism disorders in the progression of DR.
Effects of dietary oxidized fish oil on the growth performance, intestinal health, and antioxidant capacity of zebrafish
Authors: Jiang Weiwei , Guo Xiaoze , Wu Yancheng , Liu Wenshu , Wang Yuzhu , Li Debing , Li Siming
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effects of oxidized fish oil (OFO) on the growth performance, intestinal health, and antioxidant function of zebrafish, and to determine the minimum concentration of oxidized fish oil to cause irreversible damage to the intestinal tissue structure of zebrafish. A 30-day feeding trial on zebrafish (average weight 0.054 g) was conducted in triplicate groups of fish fed four test diets containing different concentrations of OFO: 0% OFO (OFF, blank control), 2% OFO (OF1), 4% OFO (OF2), and 6% OFO (OF3). The body weight gain (WG), specific growth rates (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), survival rate (SR), and antioxidant function [glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA)] were recorded. The intestinal structure was observed at the end of the trial. After the 14-day experimental period, Final body weight (FBW), WG, and SGR decreased significantly with the increase in the concentration of feed OFO (P < 0.05), while FCR showed a downward trend. The activity of T-SOD decreased significantly, the activities of GSH-PX and CAT, and the MDA content increased significantly with the increase in the concentration of feed OFO (P < 0.05). The intestinal morphological damage score showed an upward trend with the increase in the concentration of OFO, and it was significantly higher in group OF2 and OF3 than in group OF1 (P < 0.05). After the 28-day test period, the trends of the experimental indexes and intestinal antioxidant function were the same as those on 14 days. With the increase of OFO concentration, intestinal morphological injury score significantly increased (P < 0.05). These results demonstrated that adding 4% OFO to the feed for 14 days could induce irreversible damage to the intestinal tissue structure, weaken the antioxidant function, and decrease the growth performance of zebrafish.
Gastrointestinal symptoms related to the consumption of high fermentable sugars (FODMAPs) in individuals with self-perceived dairy product intolerance
Authors: Vázquez Sophia Eugenia Martínez- , Coss-Adame Enrique , Remes-Troche José María , Lugo Alejandra Noble- , Sánchez Ramón Isaías Carmona- , Garibay Ricardo Humberto Raña- , Uscanga-Domínguez Luis
Published: November 2022

Background: Lactose malabsorption is frequent in Mexico. Foods high in content of fermentable sugars (FODMAPs) –including lactose– cause symptoms in persons with gastrointestinal disorders. We describe the relation of sugar intake to gastrointestinal symptoms, in individuals with self-perceived intolerance to dairy products.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey with a sampling at convenience on symptom frequency and intensity, caused by dairy product and FODMAP (other than lactose) intake was applied to 823 consecutive participants seen for a gastroenterology consultation. Patients were divided into two groups: 1) self-perceived dairy product intolerance (SPDPI) and 2) self-perceived dairy product tolerance (SPDPT). Differences between groups were compared, utilizing hypothesis tests, and correlations were determined, using the Spearman’s rho test.
Results: A total of 464 (56%) participants fit the SPDPI definition, presenting with symptoms for more days (3 vs 1, p=0.0001) and of greater intensity (5 vs 1, p=0.0001), as well as with a higher symptom score upon FODMAP (other than lactose) intake, compared with the SPDPT subjects. The correlation between frequency and intensity was statistically significant (r= 0.618, p= 0.001), albeit moderate. Correlations between symptoms and FODMAPs (identifying oligosaccharides, polyols, and monosaccharides) were very weak.
Conclusion: The SPDPI subjects presented with distressing symptoms after ingesting FODMAPs other than lactose.
Brain-Based Gene Expression of Putative Risk Genes for Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Murray Stuart , Rokicki Jarek , Sartorius Alina , Winterton Adriano , Andreassen Ole , Westlye Lars T. , Nagata Jason , Quintana Daniel
Published: November 2022

The etiology of anorexia nervosa (AN) remains elusive. Recent genome-wide association studies identified the first genes liked to AN which reached genome-wide significance, although our understanding of how these genes confer risk remains preliminary. Here, we leverage the Allen Human Brain Atlas to characterize the spatially distributed gene expression patterns of genes linked to AN in the non-disordered human brain, developing whole-brain maps of AN gene expression. We found that genes associated with AN are most expressed in the brain, relative to all other body tissue types, and demonstrate gene-specific expression patterns which extend to cerebellar, limbic and basal ganglia structures in particular. fMRI meta-analyses reveal that AN gene expression maps correspond with functional brain activity involved in processing and anticipating appetitive and aversive cues. Findings offer novel insights around putative mechanisms through which genes associated with AN may confer risk.
The influence of lipids on adverse pregnancy outcomes differs between normal glucose tolerance and gestational diabetes mellitus women: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Ru , Ge Zhijuan , Hu Jun , Zhu Dalong , Bi Yan , Shen Shanmei
Published: November 2022

Background
We aimed to evaluate the distinctive effects of maternal lipids on adverse pregnancy outcomes between normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) pregnancies.
Methods
This retrospective study analysed 434 NGT pregnancies and 416 GDM pregnancies. According to the adverse outcomes, NGT and GDM pregnancies were divided into two groups, respectively. The risk of GDM and adverse outcomes were estimated by logistic regression.
Results
Compared to the lowest triglycerides (TG) levels, intermediate TG levels and the highest TG levels were connected to the risk of GDM (1.00 vs. 2.5 (95% CI, 1.5–4.4), and 3.8 (95% CI, 2.0–7.1), respectively. In GDM, the significant effect of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and that of total cholesterol (TC) on several outcomes disappeared after adjustment for oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) fasting blood glucose and 1 h blood glucose. Besides, the effect of lipids on several outcomes was mainly noticed in GDM with relatively high glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) within the target range.
Conclusions
Maternal elevated lipid levels were associated with GDM and adverse outcomes. For GDM with HbA1c under the target range, stricter glycemic control is required if dyslipidemia presents.
Effects of long-term magnesium L-threonate supplementation on neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier integrity in mice with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Fu Cong-Cong , Huang Lu , Xu Lufen , Yue Jiajia , Li Huilu , Liao Sha , Lian Chun , Jiang Lihong , Lin Peihao , Yang Jie , Yang Xinguang , Gao Cong , Long Youming
Published: November 2022

Objective
We aimed to elucidate the effects of and the potential mechanism underlying long-term magnesium supplementation on blood–brain barrier integrity in mice with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), a severe and disabling autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, and in cultured human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells/D3 (hCMEC/D3).
Methods
Purified serum IgG collected from NMOSD patients was consecutively injected intraperitoneally into experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice to induce the NMOSD model. Magnesium L-threonate (MgT) was orally administered to NMOSD mice from the start of model induction to experiment completion. In cultured hCMEC/D3, siRNA technology was used to knockdown the expression of the magnesium transporter transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) to explore the mechanism of MgT.
Results
Magnesium concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid was significantly lower in NMOSD patients than in control patients. Pre-treatment with MgT to NMOSD mice relieved aquaporin 4 (AQP4)-IgG–induced AQP4 loss, glial fibrillary acidic protein activation, expanded perivascular space, demyelination, and decreased tight junction (TJ) protein expression. In vitro experiments demonstrated that treatment with MgT ameliorated the damaged TJ protein function, which was originally due to NMOSD; this amelioration was dependent on TRPM7.
Conclusions
MgT treatment has a potential protective effect against NMOSD. Magnesium supplementation may be a novel therapeutic approach for NMOSD.
Mediating effect of coping style on disease acceptance and quality of life in patients with acute stroke：Across-sectional study
Authors: Mei Dan , Zhang Pan , Lu Mengqian , Sun Zhumei , Xing Fengmei
Published: November 2022

Background: Stroke is the third leading cause of death and disability in the world, which often leads to physical dysfunction of patients and seriously affects their quality of life. Promoting patients to accept disease and actively respond to discomfort caused by disease can improve their quality of life. However, the role of coping styles in the relationship between disease acceptance and quality of life of stroke patients is still unclear.
Methods: Data were collected from 375 stroke patients, and the patient's population, disease status, disease acceptance, coping style and quality of life were obtained through questionnaire survey. Person correlation analysis was used to determine whether disease acceptance and coping style were related to quality of life, and stratified multiple regression method and PROCESS program in SPSS were used to analyze the mediating effect of coping style.
Results: The quality of life of stroke patients was positively correlated with disease acceptance (r=0.638, P<0.01), positively correlated with positive coping (r=0.519, P<0.01), negatively correlated with negative coping (r=-0.383, P<0.01), positively correlated with disease acceptance (r=0.597, P<0.01), and negatively correlated with negative coping (r=-0.406, P<0.01), The intermediary effect accounted for 33.4%.
Discussion: Disease acceptance can directly predict the quality of life of stroke patients. Coping style plays a part of intermediary role between disease acceptance and quality of life. Promoting patients to accept disease is one of the effective ways to improve the quality of life of patients.
Watching the human retina breath in real time; the slowing of mitochondrial respiration with age in dark adaptation
Authors: Kaynezhad Pardis , Tachtsidis Ilias , Sivaprasad Sobha , Jeffery Glen
Published: November 2022

The retina has the greatest metabolic demand in the body particularly in dark adaptation when its sensitivity is enhanced. This requires an elevated levels of perfusion to sustain mitochondrial activity. However, mitochondrial performance declines with age leading to reduced adaptive ability. We assessed human retinal metabolism in vivo using broadband near-infrared spectroscopy (bNIRS), which records colour changes in mitochondria and blood as retinal metabolism shifts in response to changes in environmental luminance. We demonstrate a significant sustained rise in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in the first 3 min of darkness in subjects under 50 years old. This was not seen in over 50s. Choroidal oxygenation declines in <50s as mitochondrial metabolism increases, but gradually rises in >50s. Significant group differences in blood oxygenation are apparent in the first 6 min, consistent with mitochondrial demand leading hemodynamic changes. A greater coupling between mitochondrial oxidative metabolism with hemodynamics is revealed in subjects older than 50, possibly due to reduced capacity in the older retina. Rapid in vivo assessment of retinal metabolism with bNIRS provides a route to understanding fundamental physiology and early identification of retinal disease before pathology is established.
Does gender moderate the association between socioeconomic status and health? Results from an observational study in persons with spinal cord injury living in Morocco
Authors: Limacher Regula , Hajjioui Abderrazak , Fourtassi Maryam , Fekete Christine
Published: November 2022

Background
Socioeconomic status (SES) and gender are well-known social determinants of health. However, their impact on health in populations with physical disabilities in low- or middle-income countries is still lacking. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate associations of individual SES with health and the moderating effect of gender on this association in a Moroccan population with a physical disability, namely spinal cord injury.
Methods
Cross-sectional survey data from 385 participants with spinal cord injury living in Morocco were analysed. SES was operationalized by education level, household income, financial hardship, and subjective social status. Health indicators included secondary conditions, pain, vitality, quality of life, and general health. Associations between SES and health indicators were investigated using linear and logistic regressions. To test the potential moderation of gender, interaction terms between SES and gender were introduced in regression models.
Results
Financial hardship and lower subjective social status were associated with poorer health outcomes in four out of five indicators in the total sample. In contrast, education and income were inconsistently associated with health. Overall, gender did not moderate the association between SES and health, except that educational inequalities in general health were more pronounced in women, and the observation of a trend for a stronger negative effect of subjective social status on men’s than woman’s health (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
This study revealed that subjective indicators of SES negatively impact on health, whereas evidence for the moderating role of gender in this association was weak. These findings underline the importance to reduce social marginalization and poverty in populations with disabilities in low- or middle-income countries to reduce their double burden of living with a disability and encountering social disadvantages through low SES.
Electro-optic Tunable Grating-assisted Optical waveguide Directional Coupler in Lithium Niobate
Authors: Li Jun Hui , Chen Kai Xin
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a high-performance electro-optical tunable grating-assisted directional coupler (GADC) is proposed and demonstrated experimentally. Our proposed GADC consists of a two-mode waveguide (TMW) and a single-mode waveguide (SMW) formed with lithium niobite (LN). By introducing a long-period waveguide grating into the side-wall of the TMW to compensate for the phase mismatch of the fundamental modes of the SMW and TMW, the fundamental modes of the two waveguides can be coupled efficiently each other at a specific wavelength. Furthermore, push-pull electrode structure is introduced to achieve the electro-optic (EO) tuning function featuring high speed, low driving voltage, and large tuning range. The best LN GADC we fabricated on x-cut LN substrate using annealing proton exchange process shows a high isolation of ~ 34 dB at 1532.9 nm wavelength, quite large EO tuning efficiency of 1.195 nm/V (1526.4-1549.1 nm) or 1.736 nm/V (1576.1-1602.2 nm), and a thermo-optic tuning efficiency of 0.128 nm/°C (22 °C-60 °C). Our proposed LN GADC can find applications in the fields of high-speed tunable wavelength filtering, mode filtering, and EO modulation.
Fe-N/C nanozyme with specifically boosted peroxidase-like activity for ultrasensitive colorimetric bioanalysis
Authors: Xi Shumin , Cao Mengrui , Wang Ding , Zhao Renyong
Published: November 2022

In the field of analytical spectroscopy, nanozymes have a wide range of possible uses. Herein, annealing was used to create a Fe-N-doped carbon (Fe-N/C) nanozyme that is abundant in functional Fe-Nx structural domains. Further experimental analysis revealed that the Fe-N/C nanozyme possessed catalytic activity and substrate affinity comparable to that of natural horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and can catalyze chromogenic substrate in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), accompanied by the production of colored oxidation products. Based on the reduction of ascorbic acid (AA), which could inhibit the oxidation of the chromogenic substrate and result in a decrease in the system's absorbance intensity, ultrasensitive colorimetric biosensing for AA determination was established. The outcomes demonstrated a wide linear range (0.1 µM to 160 µM), low detection limit (0.03 µM, 3 s/k), and favorable anti-interference ability. Finally, this sensor was successfully applied to actual samples with recoveries in the range of 92-106%, demonstrating satisfactory practicability. This approach will, most importantly, serve as a foundation for the development of high-performance colorimetric sensors, opening new avenues for bioanalysis and safety monitoring.
Glucose-Lignin-Based Phenolic Resin: An Environmentally Friendly Low-Formaldehyde Wood Adhesive
Authors: Yang Kaiyan , Gong Xiaowu , Yang Gaoshan , Bai Lanli , Huang Jin , Zhou Na , Jia Xin
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a low-formaldehyde and environmentally friendly phenol-formaldehyde resin wood adhesive was prepared by directly using lignin to substitute formaldehyde, which was further modified by glucose to improve the physical, mechanical, and curing properties. The results showed that when the replacing amount of lignin to formaldehyde reached 15 wt%, the physical properties of the prepared lignin-based-phenolic resin (LPF) can meet the Chinese national standard, and the bonding strength can increase by 21.9%, from 0.75 MPa to 0.96 MPa, compared with phenolic resin (PF). The addition of glucose boost the performance of wood adhesive, for example, the free phenol content of the obtained glucose-lignin-based phenolic resin (GLPF) significantly reduced by 79.11%, from 5.60–1.17%, the bonding strength (1.19 MPa) of GLPF increased by 19.3% in comparison to LPF, and the curing temperature of GLPF decreased by 13.08%. FT-IR results showed that the main structure of the resin did not change before and after substitution by lignin and modification by glucose. The present study provides a simple and green method for preparing resins.
A 2700-yr record of Cascadia megathrust and crustal/slab earthquakes from Upper and Lower Squaw Lakes, Oregon
Authors: (Ross) Ann E. Morey , Goldfinger Chris
Published: November 2022

We infer a ~2,700-year history of Cascadia megathrust and other earthquakes from two small mountain lakes located ~100 km inland of the coast near the California/Oregon border. We use the characteristics of disturbance deposits in the historic portion of the sediment cores from the lower lake to identify a deposit from the 1700 CE Cascadia earthquake (deposit J). This deposit is composed of light-colored silt (indicating it is enriched in watershed-sourced sediment), without visible mica grains (which would indicate a lake bedrock source), organic grading of the deposit tail, and a basal contact with evidence of rapid loading.
Seven deposits downcore have some of the characteristics of deposit J. An age-depth model suggests that the five deposits most similar to deposit J (including deposit J) correlate to the largest margin-wide marine turbidite event deposits from Goldfinger et al., 2012, (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6), whereas the two deposits with some of the characteristics are potential correlatives of smaller turbidites T5a and T5b. Other thinner deposits are temporal correlatives of T2a and T3a and other smaller deposits of uncertain origin. Lake core physical property data can be correlated to those from other regional lake records and offshore cores. These results suggest that small Cascadia lakes with sufficient sedimentation rates (~1-2 cm/decade) with mixed clastic and organic sedimentation may be good recorders of earthquakes, that subduction earthquake deposits are different from those from other types of earthquake deposits and deposits from other types of disturbances, such as floods.
Molecular epidemiologic factors contributing to quinolone resistance in clinical multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Yan , Cai Guoping , Zhang Jinan , Xu Xiaogang , Lu Hongzhou
Published: November 2022

BackgroundThe soaring quinolone-resistance rate of Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common pathogen in immunocompromised individuals, has seriously undermined the wide applications of antimicrobials of this class. This study aimed to investigate the emerging key contributors to quinolone-resistance in multidrug resistant K. pneumoniae (MDR-KP) isolates from a clinical setting with continuing point-source infection outbreaks in Shanghai, China. ResultsBetween January and March 2017, a total of 34 K. pneumoniae isolates, including 30 carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP), were selected and characterized from a teaching hospital participating in an ongoing Bacterial Resistance Surveillance Project in Shanghai, China. Two predominant high-risk CRKP clones, ST11-wzi64 and ST15-wzi19/wzi24, caused three point-source nosocomial outbreaks in intensive care unit and/or neurosurgery department potentially by respiratory-route, promoting the co-selection and evolution of multidrug-resistant determinants. Multiple quinolone resistance-determining region (QRDR) mutations occurred in isolates of ST15 (S83F, D87A; S80I), ST11 (S83I, D87G; S80I), and ST218 (D87A; S80I). Plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance determinants, qnrS1, aac(6’)-Ib-cr, oqxAB, were detected in 32 (94.1%) isolates alone or in combination, spreading accompanied with β-lactamases (mainly, KPC-2-type carbapenemase and CTX-M-type extended-spectrum β-lactamase), 16S rRNA methylases (ArmA and RmtB), and putrescine ABC transporter permease (PotI) variants, independently of QRDR-mutations. AcrR, AcrAB transcriptional repressor, was insertion-inactivated by IS5-transposase in isolates of ST11. Thirteen ompK36 variants associated with specific ST (n=7) and wzi-allele (n=9) clustered into 10 (sub)lineages in the phylogenetic tree possibly affecting the MDR phenotype and the infection outcome of isolates. Isolates of ST11, ST15, and ST218 had frameshift disruptions in OmpK35 coupled with specific GD-insertion at position 134-135 in OmpK36, all showing distinct microevolution clusters of ompK36 genotypes. Seven quinolone-susceptible isolates kept the porin genes integral, including two each CRKPs of ST13-wzi74 (carbapenemase KPC-2 and NDM-1-coproducers) and ST65-wzi72. ConclusionsUnder selective pressures, accumulation of mutations of three types (QRDR, AcrR, OmpK36/OmpK35) and acquisition of resistance-conferring genes has been continuously contributing to quinolone-resistance in clinical MDR-KP isolates, reinforcing the importance of ongoing epidemiologic surveillance on the evolution and transmission of these isolates. Our findings provided detailed mechanistic analyses and epidemiologic implications for further infection control and antibiotic stewardship initiatives.
Experimental and Observational Constraints on Halogen Behavior at Depth
Authors: Joachim-Mrosko Bastian , Kawamoto Tatsuhiko , Bureau Hélène
Published: November 2022

Halogens are volatile elements present in trace amounts in the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core. They show volatile behavior and tend to be incompatible except for fluorine, which makes them key tracers of fluid-mediated and/or melt-mediated chemical transport processes. Even small quantities of halogens can profoundly affect many physicochemical processes such as melt viscosity, the temperature stability of mineral phases, the behavior of trace elements in aqueous fluids, or the composition of the atmosphere through magma degassing. Experiments allow us to simulate deep-Earth conditions. A comparison of experimental results with natural rocks helps us to unravel the role and behavior of halogens in the Earth’s interior.
Biomarkers in Extreme Environments on Earth and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life in Our Solar System
Authors: Schubotz Florence , Sephton Mark A. , Derenne Sylvie
Published: November 2022

Our appreciation of the potential distribution of life in the Solar System has been impacted by the discovery that organisms are able to occupy the most extreme environments on Earth. The persistence of life in the deepest parts of oceans, the deep sedimentary and crustal biosphere accessed by deep drill holes, hot springs, deserts, and polar regions has led to diverse hypotheses regarding the potential for extraterrestrial life on other planets. This chapter provides an overview on how scientists explore the habitability of other planets and moons of our Solar System and far away in outer space and how future space missions aim to find evidence for extraterrestrial life.
Quark formation and phenomenology in binary neutron-star mergers using V-QCD
Authors: Tootle Samuel , Ecker Christian , Topolski Konrad , Demircik Tuna , Järvinen Matti , Rezzolla Luciano
Published: November 2022

Using full 3+1 dimensional general-relativistic hydrodynamic
simulations of equal- and unequal-mass neutron-star binaries with
properties that are consistent with those inferred from the inspiral of
GW170817, we perform a detailed study of the quark-formation processes
that could take place after merger. We use three equations of state
consistent with current pulsar observations derived from a novel
finite-temperature framework based on V-QCD, a non-perturbative
gauge/gravity model for Quantum Chromodynamics. In this way, we identify
three different post-merger stages at which mixed baryonic and quark
matter, as well as pure quark matter, are generated. A phase transition
triggered collapse already \lesssim 10 ms≲10ms
after the merger reveals that the softest version of our equations of
state is actually inconsistent with the expected second-long post-merger
lifetime of GW170817. Our results underline the impact that
gravitational wave observations of binary neutron-star mergers can have
in constraining the equation of state of nuclear matter, especially in
its most extreme regimes.
Integration services for foreign scientific and academic staff in the Czech Republic
Authors: Fichtnerová Eva , Vacková Jitka
Published: November 2022

This study analyzes the status of integration services for foreign highly skilled staff at higher education and scientific institutions in the Czech Republic. This paper is relevant as it is essential to obtain data and information about services and possible barriers affecting the quality of life and professional experience with work migration to another country. The study conducted a survey and obtained feedback from 221 respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed in SASD 1.4.10. and SPSS. Moreover, the paper employed qualitative research in the form of open-ended questions processed by open coding in Atlas.ti 7.The analysis described the quality of the employer’s services, their offer, and frequency, as well as satisfaction with the work and social environment in the Czech Republic. Barriers to integration were identified; they include complicated administration, the need to learn the Czech language, and cultural and mental differences. Deficiencies in services for common life necessities were highlighted, e.g., provision of suitable accommodation, adequate school facilities for children, dual-career jobs, or medical treatment. The study resulted in the idea of the introduction of a service system, based on coordinated social services, for the reception of experts from abroad and better conditions for their integration. This system will increase the attractiveness of Czech institutions to the influx of brains from abroad. AcknowledgmentThe authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this paper.
Efficient methods of therapy of pediatric functional constipation
Authors: Malanicheva T. G. , Ziatdinova N. V. , Ashrafullina Ch. I.
Published: November 2022

Constipation holds an important place among the functional gastrointestinal disorders. The following are among the main reasons for the development of functional constipation: alimentary factors, impaired nervous and endocrine regulation (functional immaturity of the colon, perinatal injury of the central nervous system, endocrine disease), psychosomatic factors, hypodynamia, previous intestinal infections, iatrogenic effects, food allergies and anorectal pathology, genetic predisposition. Treatment of constipation should be comprehensive and include lifestyle maneuvers, dietary recommendations, dietary fibres and water schedule, pharmacotherapy, biofeedback, and surgical methods. Stimulant laxatives (sodium picosulfate, bisacodyl) are effective drugs among the medications used to treat constipation. A sodium picosulfate drug is an effective stimulant laxative, which has a triple effect: stimulation of bowel movements, reduction of the evacuation time and softening stools. The efficacy and safety of the drug was studied in a multicenter, parallel, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study in patients with chronic constipation. The article presents our own experience – a clinical observation – of the use of sodium picosulfate. 26 children with chronic constipation aged from 1 to 7 years, who had stool retention from 3 to 7 days, were observed. The inclusion of a stimulant sodium picosulfate laxative in the comprehensive functional chronic constipation therapy in children aged 1 to 7 years at age-specific dosage variances for 7 days showed high clinical efficacy, which resulted in the normalization of stool in 76.9% of children, facilitating bowel movements and improvement of children’s well-being. This drug can be recommended in the comprehensive therapy of functional constipation in children.