bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The UCHL1 Inhibitor LDN-57444 Promotes the Transdifferentiation of Supporting Cells into Hair Cells by Regulating the mTOR Pathway
Authors: Kim Yeon Ju , Jeong In Hye , Kim Young Sun , Sung Siung , Lee Dong Ha , Jang Jeong Hun , Choung Yun-Hoon
Published: March 2022

In mammals, hearing loss is irreversible due to the lack of regenerative capacity of the auditory epithelium. However, the recently identified resident stem/progenitor cell population in mammalian cochleae is a therapeutic targets for hearing regeneration. The ubiquitin proteasome system plays an important role in cochlear development and maintenance. However, the role of deubiquitinating enzymes in hair cell (HC) regeneration, through the transdifferentiation of neighboring supporting cells (SCs) into HCs in the cochlea, remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) in HC differentiation. Using the RNA sequencing database, we found that UCHL1 was highly expressed in the postnatal day 3 (P3) organ of Corti; it is also a top-ranking protein in vestibular HCs with regeneration potential after injury. UCHL1 was extensively observed in the greater and lesser epithelial ridge of the cochlea on embryonic day 17.5 (E17.5). The expression of UCHL1 gradually decreased as HCs developed, and was restricted to inner pillar cells and third-row Deiters’ cells between P2 and P7, suggesting that UCHL1-expressing cells are similar to the cell population with leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein receptor 5-positive progenitors. UCHL1 expression was decreased even under conditions in which supernumerary HCs were generated with a γ-secretase inhibitor and Wnt agonist in the neonatal organ of Corti explants. Moreover, the inhibition of UCHL1 by LDN-57444 led to an increase in HC number. Mechanistically, LDN-57444 increased mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 activity and allowed SCs to transdifferentiate into HCs. This study provides new evidence for a role of UCHL1 in the transdifferentiation of SCs and progenitors into HCs in the neonatal cochlea.
Stuck between medals and participation: an institutional theory perspective on why sport federations struggle to reach Sport-for-All goals
Authors: De Bock Thomas , Scheerder Jeroen , Theeboom Marc , Constandt Bram , Marlier Mathieu , Willem Annick
Published: March 2022

Background Sport-for-All emphasises that every individual has the right to participate in sport. Despite all efforts to deliver Sport-for-All during the past decades, studies indicate that sport participation rates stagnated, whereas social inequalities in sport continue to exist. Our study specifically explores how the dual mission of sport federations, i.e. providing Sport-for-All and high performance sport, affects their Sport-for-All delivery. By applying institutional theory this study sheds light on how the underlying institutional logic of Flemish sport federations affects their Sport-for-All contributions. Method A cross-sectional field study of the sport federations was applied in the study. In particular, the sport federations selected for our study are the 47 Flemish sport federations. Methodologically, qualitative research methods (i.e., document analysis) as quantitative research methods (i.e., a new questionnaire was developed based on institutional theory) were applied in the study. Results Results indicate that sport federations are important partners in support of Sport-for-All projects (n=218), but that there is a discrepancy between the projects of the high performance-oriented and the Sport-for-All-oriented federations. Specifically, the high performance-oriented federations aim on youth participants, whereas Sport-for-all-oriented aim to reach disadvantaged groups. Furthermore, the results indicate that high performance-oriented federations endure more institutional pressure than Sport-for-All-oriented federations.Conclusion This study provides insights in the amount of Sport-for-All projects the Flemish sport federations support and organize. Moreover, the conducted mapping of projects offers findings on which specific target groups the projects aim to reach. Our study indicates that the competitive federations especially aim on target groups like youth and open for all. Remarkable is that their Sport-for-All projects lack a focus on disadvantaged groups.
Years Since Menopause Is Associated With Lipid Profile In Postmenopausal Chinese Women：A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lou Zheng , Huang Yizhou , Lan Yibing , Li Chunming , Chu Ketan , Chen Peiqiong , Xu Wenxian , Ma Linjuan , Zhou Jianhong
Published: March 2022

Background: Previous studies have indicated that women with longer time since menopause are at higher risk of CVD. Moreover, Menopause-associated CVD risk is largely attributed to the change towards an atherogenic lipid profile. Few studies concerning association between years since menopause with lipid profile and there has been no consistent conclusion yet. This study was to explore the association of years since menopause with lipid profile in postmenopausal Chinese women.Methods: 633 postmenopausal women were recruited from Zhejiang, China in 2015-2021. Questionnaire-based interview on sociodemographic and reproductive information were obtained from each participant. Anthropometric measures, lipid profile and reproductive hormones were assessed. Based on the time since menopause, subjects were classified into three groups (group 1, 346 women with time since menopause < 2 years; group 2, 215 women with time since menopause 2-5.9 years; group 3, 72 women with time since menopause ≥ 6 years). The differences of lipid profile and reproductive hormones among groups were compared across three groups. Logistic and liner regression were performed to investigated the association of years since menopause with lipid profile.Results: The age (mean ± SD) of 633 subjects was 50.3 ± 6.0 years. HDL-C, LH levels were significantly lower in postmenopausal women with time since menopause ≥ 6 years compared to those with < 2 years, whereas LDL-C levels were significantly higher (P < 0.05 for all). Further adjustment for age, BMI and other confounders, longer time since menopause was independently associated with lower levels of HDL-C (β, -0.059, SE, 0.023, P < 0.01). Compared to women who had been menopause for less than 2 years, those with more than 6 years had lower HDL-C levels after adjustment for age, BMI, and other confounders (β, -0.123, 95% CI, [-0.221, -0.014], P < 0.05).Conclusions: Longer time since menopause was associated with lower levels of HDL-C in postmenopausal Chinese women.
STAT3 induces fear memory impairment in PTSD rats by regulating Stathmin expression
Authors: Shan Wei , Liu Wenqiang
Published: March 2022

Stathmin, as a microtubule depolymerization related protein, is involved in human fear and anxiety. In the previous study of our research group, it was found that the expression of Stathmin gene in amygdala of rats with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) model was significantly down regulated, which may regulate fear memory disorder caused by PTSD, but the specific mechanism is not clear. PTSD rat model was established by single-prolonged stress (SPS) method. The rats were randomly divided into 8 groups by random number table method. The experiment was divided into 2 parts: (1) Normal control group (control, n = 15), SPS 7d group (n = 15), Stathmin gene overexpression group (Stathmin-OE, n = 15), Stathmin negative control group (Stathmin-NC, n = 15). (2) Normal control group (control, n = 15), SPS 7d group (n = 15), WP1066 group (WP1066 is a signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor, n = 15), WP1066 + Stathmin gene silencing group (WP1066 + Stathmin-KD, n = 15). The state of fear and anxiety was detected by field test and stiff behavior test. The expression of Stathmin, STAT3, p-STAT3, Bax and Bcl-2 in amygdala of PTSD rats was detected by immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting and RT-qPCR. The apoptosis of amygdala cells was detected by TUNEL staining. Experiment 1: after 7 days of SPS, the expression of Stathmin in amygdala of rats decreased significantly, the apoptosis rate increased significantly, and the rats showed fear and anxiety; After overexpression of Stathmin in amygdala, the apoptosis rate decreased significantly, and the fear and anxiety of rats were improved; Experiment 2: after 7 days of SPS, STAT3 in the amygdala of rats was activated, and the apoptosis rate increased significantly, and the rats showed fear and anxiety; After the application of STAT3 inhibitor WP1066 to SPS rats, the apoptosis rate was significantly reduced and the fear and anxiety of rats were improved; When SPS rats were given WP1066, the amygdala was injected with RNAi recombinant adenovirus of Stathmin gene to inhibit the expression of Stathmin. It was found that the protective effect of WP1066 was reversed. SPS regulates the expression of Stathmin gene by activating STAT3 pathway, and then induces apoptosis of amygdala cells, resulting in fear memory impairment in PTSD rats.
Manipulation of Single Cells via a Stereo Acoustic Streaming Tunnel (SteAST)
Authors: Duan Xuexin , Yang Yang , Pang Wei , Zhang Hongxiang , Cui Weiwei , Jin Ke , Sun Chonglin , Wang yanyan , Zhang Lin , Ren Xiubao
Published: March 2022

At the single-cell level, cellular parameters, gene expression and function are assayed on an individual but not population-average basis. Essential to observing and analyzing the heterogeneity and behavior of these cells/clusters is the ability to prepare and manipulate individual. Here, we demonstrate a versatile microsystem, a stereo acoustic streaming tunnel, which is triggered by ultrahigh-frequency bulk acoustic waves and highly confined by a microchannel. We thoroughly analyze the generation and feature of stereo acoustic streaming to develop a virtual tunnel for observation, pretreatment and analysis of cells for different single-cell applications. 3D reconstruction, dissociation of clusters, selective trapping/release, in-situ analysis and pairing of single cells with barcode gel beads were demonstrated. In order to further verify the reliability and robustness of this technology in complex bio-samples, separation of circulating tumor cells based on both physics and immunity from undiluted blood was achieved. With the rich selection of handling modes, the platform has the potential to be a full-process microsystem from pretreatment to analysis and used in numerous fields, such as in vitro diagnosis, high-throughput single-cell sequencing and drug development.
Glycaemic control is associated with SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections in vaccinated patients with type 2 diabetes: an observational study
Authors: Marfella Raffaele , Sardu Celestino , D'Onofrio Nunzia , Prattichizzo Francesco , Scisciola Lucia , Messina Vincenzo , Grotta Rosalba La , Balestrieri Maria , Maggi Paolo , Napoli Claudio , Ceriello Antonio , Paolisso Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are characterized by blunted immune responses, which are affected by glycaemic control. Whether glycaemic control influences the response to COVID-19 vaccines and the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections is unknown. To explore the association between glycaemic control and immune responses or breakthrough infections in patients with T2D after mRNA-BNT162b2 vaccination, we conducted a prospective observational study among healthcare and educator workers with T2D receiving the mRNA-BNT162b2 vaccine in Campania (Italy). Patients were followed for one year (5 visits) after one full vaccination cycle to evaluate immune responses and monitor the incidence of breakthrough infections. The one-year mean of HbA1c values and canonical risk factors were used to estimate their association with breakthrough infections through Cox regression models adjusted for multiple variables. Overall, 494 subjects were followed up for 346 ± 49 days and completed the study. Patients with good glycaemic control (HbA1c one-year mean < 7%) showed a higher virus-neutralizing antibody capacity and a better CD4 + T/cytokine response, compared with those with poor control (HbA1c one-year mean ≥ 7%). One-year mean of HbA1c was significantly associated with the incidence of breakthrough infections (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.285; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.106 to 0.768; p = 0.013). Among other factors, only smoking status was associated with the incidence of breakthrough infections (HR = 0.360, CI 0.181–0.716 for non-smokers). In summary, poor glycaemic control, assessed as mean HbA1c in the post-vaccination period, is associated with lower immune responses and an increased incidence of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections in T2D patients vaccinated with mRNA-BNT162b2.
Patient-individualized resection planning in liver surgery using 3D print and virtual reality (i-LiVR) – a study protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Huber Tobias , Hanke Laura Isabel , Boedecker Christian , Vradelis Lukas , Baumgart Janine , Heinrich Stefan , Bartsch Fabian , Mittler Jens , Schulze Alicia , Hansen Christian , Hüttl Florentine , Lang Hauke
Published: March 2022

BackgroundA multitude of different diseases – benign and malign – can require surgery of the liver. The liver is an especially challenging organ for resection planning due to its unique and interindividually variable anatomy. This demands a high amount of mental imagination from the surgeon in order to plan accordingly - a skill, which takes years of training to acquire and which is difficult to teach. Since the volume of the functional remnant liver is of great importance, parenchyma sparing resections are favoured. 3D reconstructions of computed tomography imaging enable a more precise understanding of anatomy and facilitate resection planning. The modality of presentation of these 3D models ranges from 2D monitors to 3D prints and virtual reality applications.MethodsThe presented trial compares three different modes of demonstration of a 3D reconstruction of CT-scans of the liver, which are 3D print, a demonstration on a regular computer screen or using a head-mounted virtual reality headset, with the current gold standard of viewing the CT-scan on a computer screen. The group size was calculated with n=25 each. Patients with major liver resections in a laparoscopic or open fashion are eligible for inclusion. Main endpoint is the comparison of the quotient between planned resection volume and actual resection volume between these groups. Secondary endpoints include usability for the surgical team as well as patient specifics and perioperative outcome measures and teaching issues.DiscussionThe described study will give insight in systematic planning of liver resections and the comparison of different demonstration modalities of 3D reconstruction of preoperative CT-scans and the preference of technology. Especially teaching of these demanding operations is underrepresented in prior investigations.Trial registrationProspective trials registration at the German Clinical Trials register with the registration number DRKS00027865.
African ancestry genome-wide association study of blood pressure and hypertension identifies 25 novel loci through predicted gene expression
Authors: Hellwege Jacklyn , Liang Jingjing , Giri Ayush , Keaton Jacob , Sun Xiao , Torstenson Eric , Shuey Megan , Wilson Otis , Warren Helen , Arnett Donna , Bis Joshua , Cade Brian , Correa Adolfo , de Vries Paul , Fornage Myriam , Guo Xiuqing , Irvin Marguerite , Kardia Sharon , Kenny Eimear , Kooperberg Charles , Loos Ruth , Manson JoAnn , Morrison Alanna , Phillips Lawrence , Psaty Bruce , Smith Jennifer , Raffield Laura , Redline Susan , Rotter Jerome , Vaidya Dhananjay , Yanek Lisa , Franceschini Nora , Munroe Patricia , Wilson Peter , Kelly Tanika , O'Donnell Christopher , Sun Yan , Hung Adriana , Zhu Xiaofeng , Edwards Todd
Published: March 2022

African Americans (AAs) experience a high burden of hypertension but have been underrepresented in genetic studies of blood pressure. We performed common and rare variant genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, pulse pressure and hypertension in 95,457 AAs from the Million Veteran Program and Continental Origins and Genetic Epidemiology Network (COGENT) consortium with replication in up to 41,014 African-ancestry participants. GWAS meta-analysis confirmed 26 previously reported loci including 15 with SBP, four with DBP, 10 with pulse pressure and five with hypertension. Predicted gene expression analysis identified 25 genes newly associated with blood pressure. We provide validated African-ancestry polygenic scores for SBP and DBP that are strongly associated with hypertension. This work provides evidence for similar genetic architectures of hypertension and blood pressure across racial/ethnic groups and demonstrates the utility of predicted expression analysis in identifying novel genes beyond GWAS alone.
Recent progress on the non-point source pollution research from the World and China’s perspective: A bibliometric analysis from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Xie Zijian , Ye Chun , Li Chunhua , Shi Xiaogang
Published: March 2022

Background
With the effective control of point source pollution, the non-point source (NPS) pollution has been widely concerned as the primary reason for the improvement of global water environmental quality. At present, China is one of the countries with the highest research attention on NPS pollution. The Chinese government pays great attention to the environmental problems caused by the NPS pollution. Therefore, it is of great significance to clarify the global trends of NPS pollution and illustrate the importance of China on the NPS pollution research around the world.
Results
A bibliometric analysis was conducted based on 3407 publications retrieved from the Web of Science during 2012–2021. China, the USA and UK were the most productive countries. Articles published from China accounting from 23–50% between 2012–2021. Regarding the top 20 most productive authors, 17 of them from China. The most productive 21 institutions were located in China (15) and the UK (6). The Chinese Academy of Sciences stood out, followed by the Beijing Normal University. The Sci. Total Environ ranked first in the most productive journals, followed by Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res and Water. China was the major contributor to these journals, accounting from 24–79%. The most highly cited articles were published in Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. The keywords analysis showed that nitrogen and phosphorus were the common NPS pollutants. Agricultural NPS pollution and urban NPS pollution were the main NPS types. The land use change, rainfall and irrigation were the main driving factors of NPS pollution. Load calculation and Integrated management were the key points of NPS pollution technology research. The NPS pollution research objects were mainly distributed in the surface water and groundwater, while the ocean might be the hot areas in the future research.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates the global trend of NPS pollution research during 2012–2021 according to analyzing the annual publication outputs, source journals, source country, author, institution and the high-frequency keywords. Meanwhile, the importance of China on NPS pollution research is explained from the bibliometrics perspective. It is beneficial for guiding the future research of NPS pollution.
Ankle brachial index and cognitive function among elderly hypertensive patients with different age stratification: a 2-year longitudinal study
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Min , Liu Lei , Shi Anshi , Yin Zhe , Tian Gang
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe ankle brachial index (ABI) is widely used to evaluated peripheral artery disease and atherosclerosis. This study was designed to evaluate the association between the ABI and cognitive function in elderly hypertensive patients stratified by age. MethodsA total of 408 elderly hypertensive patients from two hospitals were included, and followed up for two years. Cognitive function was assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to evaluate the association between ABI and cognitive impairment, and the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare the cognitive decline according to the ABI during 2-year follow-up in different age groups adjusted for related confounding factors.ResultsThe ABI was independently associated with cognitive impairment in overall and old elderly (75 ~ 89 years old) hypertensive patients (all P < 0.05), but not in the young elderly (60 ~ 75 years old) (P = 0.113). During ANCOVA, the MMSE score decline value of the low ABI group was greater than that of the high ABI group (0.767 vs 0.244; F = 5.845, P = 0.016) over 2-year follow-up. There was a significant difference of MMSE score decline value between the young and old elderly (0.345 vs 1.005; F = 4.728, P = 0.031) in Low ABI group, but no significant difference was found in High ABI group (P = 0.235). ConclusionsThe ABI was associated with cognitive impairment and cognitive function decline in elderly hypertensive patients, especially in the old elderly. Early monitoring of the ABI and initiation of individualized anti-atherosclerotic therapy might help prevent cognitive impairment in elderly hypertensive patients more effectively.
Research Progress on Three-dimensional Greening of High-Density Urban Spaces
Authors: Wang Wei , Song Yuan , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Jinbang , Lv Wujie
Published: March 2022

Urbanization has resulted in increased population density and scarcity of space, leading to the loss of greenery in urban areas, while also increasing the density of buildings and urban spaces. As an important development direction of urban greening, three-dimensional greening plays an important role in the ecological economy and landscape development of the city, especially for the improvement of the ecological environment of high-density cities. Focusing on the research progress of high-density urban space greening, this paper summarizes the application mode, technical points and plant configuration of three-dimensional greening in high-density urban space, and provides a scientific basis and relevant prospects for the sustainable development of high-density urban three-dimensional greening.
Clinical outcomes and visual prognostic factors in congenital aniridia
Authors: Jacobson Adam , Mian Shahzad I. , Bohnsack Brenda L.
Published: March 2022

Background: Evaluate outcomes and identify prognostic factors in congenital aniridia. Methods: Retrospective interventional case series of patients with congenital aniridia treated between 2012-2020. Ocular examination and surgical details were collected. Surgical failure was defined as disease progression or need for additional surgery for same/related indication. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, Wilcoxon test, and univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed. Results: Ninety-four patients with congenital aniridia presented at median 19.0 years. Two-thirds of patients underwent > 1intraocular surgery, with average of 1.7 ± 2.3 surgeries/eye. At final follow-up (median 4.0 years), 45% of eyes had undergone lensectomy. Aphakic eyes showed worse visual acuity (VA) than phakic or pseudophakic eyes. Glaucoma affected 52% of eyes, of which half required IOP-lowering surgery. Glaucoma drainage devices showed the highest success rate (71%) at 14.2±15.4 years of follow-up. Keratopathy affected 65% of eyes and one-third underwent corneal surgery. Keratoprosthesis had the longest survival rates at 10-years (64% with 95% CI [32,84]). LogMAR VA at presentation and final follow-up were not statistically different. Half of patients were legally blind at final follow-up. Final VA was associated with presenting VA, glaucoma diagnosis, and cataract or keratopathy at presentation. Penetrating keratoplasty and keratoprosthesis implantation correlated with worse BCVA. Conclusions: Most aniridic patients in this large US-based cohort underwent at least 1 intraocular surgery. Cataract, glaucoma, and keratopathy were associated with worse VA and are important prognostic factors to consider when managing congenital aniridia.
Tolerance to oral anticancer agent treatment in older adults with cancer: A secondary analysis of data from EHRs and a pilot study of patient-reported outcomes
Authors: Jiang Yun , Mason Madilyn , Cho Youmin , Chittiprolu Ankita , Zhang Xingyu , Harden Karen , Gong Yang , Harris Marcelline R. , Barton Debra L.
Published: March 2022

Background: More than 60% of cancer cases occur in older adults, and many are treated with oral anticancer agents (OAAs). Yet, OAA treatment tolerability in older adults has not been fully understood due to their underrepresentation in oncology clinical trials, creating challenges for treatment decision-making and symptom management. The objective of this study was to investigate the tolerance of capecitabine, an OAA, in older adults with cancer and explore factors associated with capecitabine-related side effects and treatment changes, to enhance supportive care.Methods: A secondary analysis used combined data from electronic health records and a pilot study of patient-reported outcomes, with a total of 97 adult patients taking capecitabine during 2016-2017, including older adult patients aged 65 years or older (n=43). The data extracted included patient socio-demographics, capecitabine information, side effects, and capecitabine treatment changes (dose reductions and dose interruptions). Bivariate correlations, negative binomial regression, and multiple linear regression were conducted for data analysis. Results: Older adults were more likely to experience fatigue (86% vs. 51%, p=.001) and experienced more severe fatigue (β=0.44, p=.03) and HFS (β=1.15, p=.004) than younger adults. The severity of fatigue and HFS were associated with the number of outpatient medications (β=0.06, p=.006) and the duration of treatment (β=0.50, p=0.009), respectively. Correlations among side effects presented differently between younger and older adults. Older adults also tended to be more likely to experience dose reductions (21% vs. 13%) and dose interruptions (33% vs. 28%) than younger adults. Females, breast cancer diagnosis, capecitabine monotherapy, and severe HFS were found to be associated with dose reductions (ps<0.05). Conclusions: Older adults were less likely to tolerate OAA treatment and had different co-occurring side effects compared to younger adults. While dose reductions are common among older adults, age 65 years or older may not be an independent factor of treatment changes. Other socio-demographic and clinical factors may be more likely to be associated. Future studies can be conducted to further explore older adults’ tolerance to a variety of OAAs to generate more evidence to support optimal OAA treatment decision-making and symptom management among older adults.
X-mode laser coupling to upper hybrid wave in a plasma embedded with clusters
Authors: Babu Sanjay , Jeet Ram , Kumar Arvind , Kumar Asheel , Varma Ashish
Published: March 2022

A large amplitude X-mode laser, propagating perpendicular to the static magnetic field B s || z ˆ , through a clustered plasma parametrically couples to upper hybrid wave and a lower hybrid wave. Coupling occurs due to ponderomotive force by the high frequency upper hybrid waves and low frequency density perturbation beating with the oscillatory velocity due to X-mode laser. The cluster Plasmon resonance strongly modifies the nonlinear coupling between upper hybrid and lower hybrid waves. Fluid theory is employed to obtain the response of plasma electrons and cluster electrons to upper hybrid and lower hybrid mode. For typical parameters, eA 0 / m ω cc = 0.2,0.3, k 0 x = 2ω c / c , k 1⊥ ≈ 0.8ω0 / c , ω0 = 2ω c , ω2 pe /ω2 p =10, ω c / ω p =1, k 1 z / k 1 =.16 , (4π/3) r c 3 n c = 0.001, the growth rate is maximum when ω 1 /ω UH = 0.35 .
Prediction of cooking characteristics of moisture conditioned and infrared heated cowpea using Artificial neural network
Authors: Ogundele Opeolu .M. , Akintola Ayooluwa. T. , Fasogbon Beatrice M. , Adebo Oluwafemi. A.
Published: March 2022

Cowpea is widely grown and consumed in Sub-Saharan Africa because of its low cost and high mineral, protein, and other nutritional content. Nonetheless, cooking it takes considerable time, and there have been attempts on techniques for speeding up the cooking process without compromising its nutritious value. Infrared heating has recently been proposed as a viable way of preparing instantized cowpea grains that take a short amount of time to cook while maintaining desired sensory characteristics. Despite this, only a few studies have shown the impact of moisture, temperature, and cooking time on cooking characteristics such as bulk density, water absorption (WABS), and the pectin solubility of infrared heated cowpea precooked using this technology. Artificial neural network was used as a machine learning tool to study the effect of a prediction model on the infrared heating performance and cooking characteristics of precooked cowpea seeds. With R values of 0.987, 0.991, and 0.938 for the bulk density, WABS, and pectin solubility, respectively, the prediction model created in this study utilizing an artificial neural network (a type of machine learning) outperformed the traditional linear, 2-Factor Interaction (2FI), and quadratic models.
Revascularization Procedures for Moyamoya Disease without Mayfield Skull Clamp
Authors: Fatima Nida , Dine Anna K. La , Barnard Zachary R , Lekovic Gregory P
Published: March 2022

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a pathophysiologically complex disorder characterized by progressive stenosis of the internal carotid arteries at the skull base and formation of circuitous and expanded collaterals angiographically “puff of smoke” at the base of brain. However, these collateral blood vessels are fragile and prone to ischemic or hemorrhagic events during the peri and intra-operative period. Direct and indirect bypass techniques have been devised with the goal of promoting angiogenesis, inducing formation of collateral vessels, and restoring perfusion to the oxygen deprived area of the brain. Mayfield skull clamp can cause blood pressure instability. This technical note highlights the surgical management of MMD without the use of Mayfield skull clamp with the goal of minimizing risk of perioperative blood pressure volatility.
Bismuth fire assay preconcentration and modified empirical coefficient method LA-ICP-MS for the simultaneous determination of ultra-trace Pt and Pd in geochemical samples
Authors: Ni Wenshan , Mao Xiangju , Yao Mingxing , Guo Xiaorui , Sun Qiliang , Gao Xiaofei , Zhang Hongli
Published: March 2022

In this work, a novel green method of solid sample pretreatment technique of bismuth fire assay (Bi-FA) combined with solid sample determination by laser ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) was reported for the determination of ultra-trace Pt and Pd in geochemical samples. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) was used as fire assay collector to directly enrich Pt and Pd from solid samples, and Ag protection cupellation was employed to generate Ag granules. After cleaning, weighing and annealing, the Ag granules were compressed into thin slices and determined by LA-ICP-MS for 195Pt, 105Pd and 109Ag (109Ag was selected as the internal standard isotope). Bi2O3 provided exceptionally low blanks compared to nickel oxide and lead oxide commonly employed in fire assay procedures, and could be applied directly without purification. Different from traditional empirical coefficient method, the Chinese Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) for Pt and Pd were treated by the same procedure to obtain completely matrix matched Ag slices. And then modified empirical coefficient method and internal standard calibration strategy was used to reduce the instability of LA-ICP-MS, and random multipoint laser ablation was employed to further reduce analytical variation resulting from heterogeneity of Pt and Pd in the Ag slice. Under optimal conditions, excellent calibration curves for Pt and Pd were obtained (0.4071 ~ 2958 μg g-1 and 0.4071 ~ 2636 μg g-1, respectively), with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.9996. The method detection limits for Pt and Pd were 0.074 and 0.037 ng g-1, respectively. The established method was applied successfully to analysis of real geochemical samples, with determined values in good agreement with the results of traditional Pb-FA graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS), and spiked recoveries between 87.8% and 125.0%.
Metagenomic Analysis of the Microbiome of the Upper Reproductive Tract Focuses on Prediction, Prevention, and Personalized Medicine to Combat Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Qin Xu , Zhou Jianglin , Wang Zizhuo , Feng Chenzhao , Fan Junpeng , Huang Jia , Hu Dianxing , Baban Babak , Wang Shengqi , Ma Ding , Sun Chaoyang , Zhou Zhe , Chen Gang
Published: March 2022

Purpose
To explore whether there are particular genital microbiota compositions in the reproductive tract in ovarian cancer patients and analyze their potential impact on the preventive, precisive, and personalized treatment.
Methods
The samples of cotton swabs from the cervical, uterine cavity, fallopian tubes, and ovaries were collected in the operation of the malignant/benign lesion patients, and subjected to metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis. The distribution characteristics of the microbiota in the reproductive tract of different patients was analyzed with the consideration of associated clinical data.
Results
Bacteria accounted for the highest proportion in each sample, with a median of 99%. The microbiota of the upper female reproductive tract are mainly from the cervical, charactering in low bacterial biomass and high bacterial diversity. Ovarian cancer had a distinct microbiota signature. The tubal ligation affects its microbial distribution. There were no different species on the surface of ovarian tissue between platinum-sensitive and platinum-resistant patients.
Conclusion
The identification of the distinct microbiota may benefit in the prediction as well as prevention of different types of ovarian cancer. Moreover, it may dedicate to strengthen the therapeutic effect of adjuvant treatment of cancer. These findings may provide new strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and therapeutic effects to enhance health outcomes for women with ovary cancer.
Safety Analysis of Immunochemotherapy Combined With Consolidative Thoracic Radiotherapy for Extensive-stage Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Li Yuying , Jing Xuquan , Chang Jiayu , Li Jiatong , Zhang Yan , Guo Jun , Tang Xiaoyong , Zhu Hui
Published: March 2022

Background: It has been evaluated that thoracic radiation therapy (TRT) could improve the local control and give survival benefit for the patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) in the era of chemotherapy. However, there was no data to indicate the safety especially the lung toxicity of TRT during the maintenance of programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1) inhibitors after four cycles of PD-L1 inhibitors with etoposide and platinum (EP). Hence, the retrospective study aimed to investigate the risk factors of radiation pneumonitis (RP) of TRT combined with PD-L1 inhibitors.Methods: From January 2020 through March 2021, in Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, patients with ES-SCLC who received TRT during the maintenance of PD-L1 inhibitors after administrating PD-L1 inhibitors with EP were enrolled in the retrospective study. RP was investigated and evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0(CTCAE v5.0) criteria. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression to analyze the potential risk factors of RP.Results: During January 2020 to March 2021, 20 patients receiving TRT during the maintenance of PD-L1 inhibitors after administrating PD-L1 inhibitors with EP were enrolled in the retrospective study. The dose fractions were 1.5Gy bid or 1.8-3Gy qd and the total dose was 30Gy to 61.4Gy. As a result, 6 patients (30%) experienced grade 2 RP, and no ≥3 grade RP occurred. At the last time of follow-up, 17 patients suffered from disease progression, 13 of them suffered from distant progression and three suffered from local failure in radiation field and one suffered from distant progression and local failure in radiation field. The median progression-free time (PFS) was 9 months.Conclusion: The retrospective analysis showed that the lung toxicity of TRT was tolerable during the maintenance of PD-L1 inhibitors after administrating PD-L1 inhibitors with EP.
Evaluation on potential detriments from lockdown-related isolation to mental health among school-aged youth in central China
Authors: Li Yichen , Hou Zhanfeng , Sun Ken , Ma Jun , Zhou Chenmiao , Zhang Wen , Chen Feng , Chen Mo-Xian , Wong Nai-Kei , Zhang Xiao-Fan
Published: March 2022

Background: Home isolation is a generally effective strategy for coronavirus disease control during lockdown periods. This study is to determine the potential adverse consequences of home isolation to mental health among school-aged youth after lifting of major lockdown measures in central China. Methods: This cohort study assessed the mental health of school-aged children and adolescents enrolled in Wuhan city and nearby areas in Hubei province, China, from July 1 to August 31, 2020. Post-lockdown responses to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and post-traumatic stress symptoms were assessed in online questionnaire-based surveys. Participants’ scores for the Zung self-rated anxiety scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the self-rating scale of sleep and the post-traumatic stress disorder self-rating scale (PTSS) were analyzed. Results: Questionnaire responses of 730 school children were collected. Among the participants, 6.25% of them had scores above thresholds for PTSS, 5.81% had anxiety, and 48.84% had depression. All subjects reported that they experienced sleep disturbances. Subjects who had anxiety might have a high risk for developing depression [OR: 16.07, p =0.008, 95%CI (2.08-123.94)] and PTSS [OR: 12.97, p <0.001, 95%CI (5.41-31.11)]. Both depression [OR: 17.35, p =0.006, 95%CI (2.28-131.87)] and PTSS [OR: 14.18, p <0.001, 95%CI (6.00-33.47)] were risk factors for developing anxiety among participants. Interestingly, higher educational levels of primary caregivers were a risk factor for developing depression [OR: 1.62, p =0.005, 95%CI (1.16-2.28)] in the participants, but a protective factor against PTSS [OR: 0.47, p =0.048, 95%CI (0.23-0.99)].Conclusions: The local youth had less than expected degree of increases in their self-reported PTSS and anxiety, after exiting lockdown-related isolation. As a result of a combination of compensatory mechanisms including internet-based home-schooling and increased intra-familial interactions, home isolation did not affect the mental health of local school-aged youth to an extent as great as expected.Trial registration: The Registration number of this trial is ChiCTR2000033054.
Study of the thermomechanical behaviour of a concrete element
Authors: Douhi Réda Bouabdellah , Boualla Nabila , Khelafi Hamid , Yahiaoui Tayeb
Published: March 2022

The need to improve the safety of nuclear reactor containment has revealed the need for data on the thermomechanical behaviour of concrete in the event of an accident during which concrete is exposed to high temperatures. This work aims to study the influence of high temperatures on the behaviour of ordinary concrete specimens charged by a compression force. A thermal model is developed by a volumetric discretization (CASTEM). The results of various simulations, combined with other findings, allow a physical explanation of the thermomechanical phenomenon of concrete structures, which made it possible to obtain the variation of the stresses in any point or node and for each temperature in different directions X, Y and Z.
Morbidity and outcome among under-five children with Severe Acute Malnutrition admitted to Community Inpatient Therapeutic feeding centres in Katsina State, Northwest Nigeria: A retrospective review of health records (2010-2016)
Authors: Friday Ilop Joseph , Falade Adewale
Published: March 2022

Background
Severe Acute malnutrition among under –five children remain a huge public health and economic burden in Saharan Africa. We investigated the morbidity and outcome of under-five children admitted into CMAM stabilisation centres and managed for complicated severe acute malnutrition.
Methods
It was a retrospective review of CMAM stabilization centres registers. It was conducting focusing of demographic; morbidity, anthropometry and outcome of data which was extracted on all children 0–60 months admitted in CMAM six stabilization centres, in four local government areas of Katsina state from September 2010 to November 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Descriptive analysis was used to compare performance indicator with Sphere project reference standard (the minimum standard to be attained during nutritional therapy). Cox –proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to estimate the predictors of recovery rate at p < 0.05 and Kaplan Meier curve were used to predict the length of stay on the ward
Result
A total of 6925 records of children with complicated SAM during the period under review, comprising 3570 males and 3,352 females. Marasmus was the most common form of severe acute malnutrition (86%). Overall outcome met the minimum sphere standard for inpatient management of SAM. Oedematous SAM (13.9%) have lowest survival rate on Kaplan Meier graph. There were significantly different mortality during the ‘lean season’ – May to August (CHR = 1.228, 95% CI = 0.942–1.599), MUAC at admission (CHR = 1.731, 95% CI = 1.072–2.796), MAUC at Exit (CHR = 3.057, 95% CI = 3.057 (1.974–4.734), Type of acute malnutrition – Marasmus (CHR = 0.417, 95% CI = 0.325–0.536), Transfer from OTP (CHR = 2.377, 95% CI 1.855–3.047) and weight gain (CHR = 0.210, 95% CI = 0.149–0.295) were found to be significant predictors to time-to-outcome with p value < 0.05.
Conclusion
We find that despite high turnover of complicated SAM cases in the stabilization, community approach to inpatient management of acute malnutrition leads to early detection; reduce delay to access care and mortality of complicated SAM cases. With training and retraining, community health workers can play a vital role inpatient management of SAM in resource limited setting.
Covid-19 and Psychological Well-being among Indian Expatriates in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Fazli Rakshanda , Faridi Rashid Aziz
Published: March 2022

The current study delves into the impact of Covid-19 on the psychological well-being of diverse ages, gender, and income groups of Indian expatriates in Saudi Arabia. Psychological well-being is measured by Dr Martin Seligman's theory of well-being called PERMA (Positive emotions; Engagement; Relationships; Meaning; and Accomplishments). Age, gender, and income are used as independent variables. Positive emotions, engagement; relationships; purposeful existence; and accomplishment are dependent variables additional filler variables are health, negative emotions, loneliness, and happiness.As per the demand of the study, some changes are made in the questionnaire to get responses aimed at before and post COVID-19 outbreak scenarios. The online survey was administered during April-July 2021 to collect the data. The study focuses on the perceived psychological well-being of affluent Indian expatriates(n=62) living in Saudi Arabia during the pandemic. The marks of COVID-19 can be seen across all genders, ages, and income groups of Indians living in Saudi Arabia, but impressions of perceived well-being are profound on women, people of 51+ age, and high-income groups.
Genomic epidemiology of influenza B circulation in China during prolonged border closure from 2020 to 2021
Authors: Xie Ruopeng , Adam Dillon , Edwards Kimberly , Gurung Shreya , Wei Xiaoman , Cowling Benjamin , Dhanasekaran Vijaykrishna
Published: March 2022

China experienced a resurgence of seasonal influenza activity throughout 2021 under intermittent control measures and prolonged international border closure. We show genomic evidence for multiple A(H3N2), A(H1N1), and B/Victoria transmission lineages circulating for over three years, with the 2021 resurgence driven by two B/Victoria clades. Novel hemagglutinin (HA) gene mutations and altered age profiles of infected individuals were observed, and Jiangxi province was identified as a major source for nationwide outbreaks. An increase in the effective population size and effective reproduction number of B/Victoria outbreaks followed major national holidays, several months prior to their initial detection, underscoring the importance of influenza vaccination prior to holiday periods or travel. Clade 3a2 B/Victoria viruses with the HA1 mutation H122Q and a distinct gene constellation are becoming increasingly dominant in China and warrant close monitoring due to poor antigenicity match with current vaccine strains.
Rivastigmine Loaded PEG-PLGA Nanoparticles for Enhanced Delivery to the Brain: In-Vitro and In-Vivo Studies for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Prakash Jose , Prakash  , Prasad Vijaya Vara , Claret Angelin , Somasundaram  , ShanmugaRajan
Published: March 2022

Purpose
Rivastigmine Tartrate (RT) is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor used for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and CNS disorder. The entry of the drug to the brain is restricted is due to the presence of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). In this work, we have developed amphiphilic copolymer, poly (ethylene glycol)-poly (lactide-coglycolide (PEG-PLGA) loaded RT nanoparticles to enhance brain delivery.
Methods
Rivastigmine-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using the nanoprecipitation technique. Pegylated polyethylene glycol (polymer) and Pluronic F68 (Surfactant) were selected as preparation of Polymeric Nanoparticle. Characterization studies on the formulation such as DSC, Zeta potential, SEM, and Drug Entrapment were conducted. In-vitro drug release, Pharmacokinetic, and Pharmacodynamics studies were performed.
Results
The prepared nanoparticles are spherical and the size ranges from a minimum of 125.93 ± 0.55 to a maximum of 179.60 ± 1.06 nm. In vitro release studies in PBS pH 7.4 showed a biphasic release pattern of the drug from the nanoparticles. Pharmacokinetic studies in male Wistar rats showed an increase in the Cmax of RT when administered as PEG- PLGA nanoparticles than RT administered as a solution in PBS and a notable 3.5fold increase in the T1/2 also was observed. Tissue distribution studies also showed a 4fold increase in the amount of RT as nanoparticles that have entered the brain when compared to RT in PBS.
Conclusion
The Smaller size of the nanoparticles along with the presence of hydrophilic PEG group has assisted in enhancing the concentration of Rivastigmine in the brain which has consequently even improved the memory learning skills of the animals
Demonstration of Breast Cancer Detection Using QSVM on IBM Quantum Processors
Authors: Shan Zheng , Guo Jiayu , Ding Xiaodong , Zhou Xin , Wang Junchao , Lian Hang , Gao Yufei , Zhao Bo , Xu Jinchen
Published: March 2022

Support vector machine(SVM) is one of the most popular machine learning(ML) methods which are widely used as the methodology of choice in Breast Cancer detection because of its unique advantages in critical features detection from complex breast cancer datasets. Quantum support vector machine(QSVM) uses the power of quantum mechanics to improve the performance of classical support vector machine(SVM) algorithms with theoretical acceleration advantage. However, it still suffers from the wide error problem and hardware limits in Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum computing(NISQ). Consequently, we propose a quantum kernel estimation method with measurement error mitigation and test it using the Wisconsin Breast Cancer database first on the IBM quantum processors. The experimental results show that we can achieve remarkable performance improvement in accuracy for solving such binary classification problems compared to state-of-the-art models, which shows the great potential for the design and implementation of machine learning algorithms with quantum advantages in the future.