bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pan-cancer analysis of TMEM45A indicates its potential prognostic value and functional validation in gastric cancer
Authors: Xie Qixin , Guo Tao , Deng Hong , Yu Changjun , Fang Changyi
Published: February 2024

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is a frequent malignant tumor of the digestive system with the highest incidence and mortality rate among all tumors. This research aimed to investigate the relationships among TMEM45A expression, prognostic values and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) in GC patients.
Methods
First, GEO and TCGA database were employed to analyze the expression of TMEM45A in GC patients. Then, we determined the association between TMEM45A expression and survival of GC patients using the Kaplan-Meier Plotter database and TCGA database and verified the accuracy of TMEM45A in predicting prognosis. Next, we analyzed the effect of CTHRC expression on TIICs in GC tissues. A prognostic model was constructed using immunomodulatory genes associated with TMEM45A. The specificity and accuracy of the model were verified.
Results
TMEM45A expression was markedly higher in GC tissue than in normal tissue. GC patients with TMEM45A overexpression had a poor prognosis. The AUC value of 5-year survival on the ROC curve was 0.705, indicating that TMEM45A is a reliable prognostic factor and can be used as a clinicopathological indicator alone to predict patient prognosis. Three high-risk immunomodulatory genes (CXCR4 and TGFB1) and one low-risk immunomodulatory gene (PDCD1) were obtained using both univariate and multivariate COX methods. These three immunomodulatory molecules were used to construct prognostic models.
Conclusion
GC patients with TMEM45A overexpression have a poor prognosis and are associated with immune cell infiltration. Hence, TMEM45A is a fairly reliable independent prognostic marker.
Unveiling Determinants of Household Lighting Preferences in Rural Tanzania: Insights for Sustainable Energy Access
Authors: Kamuzora Aurelia Ngirwa
Published: February 2024

This study delves into the intricate determinants that steer household lighting preferences in rural Tanzania, where reliance on traditional lighting persists despite ongoing electrification efforts. Employing a quantitative methodology, the research scrutinizes factors that either impede or facilitate the adoption of modern and sustainable lighting sources. Grounded in the Random Utility Theory, the investigation utilizes the Multinomial Logit Model to analyze data sourced from the Tanzania Panel Survey of 2020/2021. The findings unearth several significant influencers of lighting choices among households in rural Tanzania. Firstly, household age emerges as a noteworthy factor, displaying a negative correlation with the likelihood of opting for electricity as a lighting source. Additionally, households headed by males exhibit decreased odds of selecting solar and candle lighting alternatives. Moreover, larger households tend to shy away from electricity, preferring alternative lighting options. On the other hand, employment status and higher income levels positively correlate with the adoption of electricity and candle lighting. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of factors that shape household lighting preferences in rural Tanzanian settings. Consequently, addressing these determinants emerges as pivotal in fostering sustainable and affordable energy access. Policy implications drawn from this research underscore the necessity for targeted interventions that address socioeconomic and demographic dynamics. Such interventions are crucial for enhancing the efficacy of rural electrification initiatives and ultimately improving the quality of life for rural Tanzanian households
Prospective study to evaluate radioactive iodine of 20 mCi vs 10-15 mCi in Graves’ disease
Authors: Kanokwongnuwat Wasit , Penpong Nawarat
Published: February 2024

Objectives
To assess whether increasing radioactive iodine dose can increase treatment efficacy in Graves’ disease.
Methods
A prospective study was conducted, including 106 patients receiving 20 mCi (740 MBq) radioactive iodine (RAI), compared with a retrospective data, including 113 patients receiving 10-15 mCi (370-555 MBq) RAI. Remission and failure rates were evaluated at 6 months post-RAI. Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier curves.
Results
Patients receiving 20 mCi RAI demonstrated a significantly higher remission rate compared to the 10-15 mCi group (82.1% vs 66.4%, p = 0.009). Median time to remission was shorter in the 20 mCI group (3 vs 4 months, p = 0.002). Hypothyroidism at 6 months was more prevalent in the 20 mCi group (67% vs 53%, p = 0.03). Larger thyroid size (>60 grams) was associated with treatment failure (p =0.02).
Conclusions
Higher dosage (20 mCi) RAI showed superior efficacy in achieving remission compared to lower dosages (10-15 mCi) in Graves’ disease treatment.
Study of sorption properties of zirconia, alumina and silica in relation to repellents
Authors: Zverev Sergei A. , Vinogradova Yana V. , Selivanova Anna A. , Solovov Roman D. , Sakharov Konstantin A. , Ischenko Anatoliy A. , Andreev Sergei V.
Published: February 2024

In this work, the morphology of zirconia, alumina, and silicas was studied and static sorption of the repellents N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide and ethyl-3-[acetyl(butyl)amino]propionate on these oxides was carried out. ZrO2, Al2O3, SiO2 phenyl were shown to have high sorption activity to the repellents N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (239 mg/g for SiO2 phenyl) and ethyl-3-[acetyl(butyl)amino]propionate (251 mg/g for ZrO2). Pointedly, it was found that despite having the largest pore volume and high specific surface area (compared to the other studied oxides), SiO2 C2 has a significantly inferior sorption capacity in respect to other oxides, in particular SiO2 phenyl, which can be explained by the presence of the phenyl group in the latter that has chemical affinity for repellent molecules. Obtained isotherms of SiO2 300 also confirm the low sorption activity towards N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide. The sorption equilibrium for both repellents, in most cases, is described by the Langmuir monomolecular adsorption model. The obtained results suggest that the studied zirconia, alumina, and silica can be used as carrier components of repellents.
Long-term Safety and Effectiveness of Lurasidone in Adolescents and Young Adults with Schizophrenia: Pooled Post hoc Analyses of Two 12-month Extension Studies
Authors: Calisti Fabrizio , Tocco Michael , Mao Yongcai , Goldman Robert
Published: February 2024

Objectives
The aim of this analysis was to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of lurasidone in the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents and young adults (13–25).
Methods
The 2 pooled studies used similar designs and outcome measures. Patients (13–25) with schizophrenia completed an initial double-blind 6-week trial of lurasidone (40 and 80 mg/d) in the adolescent trial and (80 and 160 mg/d) in the young adult trial. In open-label long-term trials, adolescent patients were treated with 20–80 mg/d lurasidone, and adults were treated with 40–160 mg/d lurasidone. Efficacy was evaluated based on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S).
Results
The safety population consisted of 306 patients (mean age, 16.2 years; 208 patients (68.0%) who completed 12 months of treatment; 8.2% who discontinued treatment by 12 months due to an adverse event). The mean (SD) changes in the PANSS total score from the extension baseline to months 6 and 12 were − 11.8 (13.9) and − 15.3 (15.0), respectively (OC), and the mean (SD) changes in the CGI-S score were − 0.8 (1.0) and − 1.0 (1.1), respectively (OC). The most frequent adverse events were headache (17.6%), anxiety (11.4%), schizophrenia (9.8%), and nausea (9.8%). No clinically meaningful changes were observed in weight, metabolic parameters, or prolactin.
Conclusions
In adolescents and young adults with schizophrenia, treatment with lurasidone was generally well tolerated and effective. Long-term treatment was associated with a continued reduction in symptoms of schizophrenia. Long-term treatment was associated with minimal effects on weight, metabolic parameters, and prolactin.
Clinicaltrials.gov identifiers: D1050234, D1050302
High percentage of bone marrow CD8+ tissue-resident-like T cells predicts inferior survival in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cai Letong , Lai Wenpu , Yao Danlin , Gu Yinfeng , Liang Caofeng , Liu Lian , Lai Jing , Yu Zhi , Zha Xianfeng , Yu Xibao , Wu Xiuli , Chen Shaohua , Luo Oscar Junhong , Li Yangqiu , Wang Chunyan , Qin Pengfei , Huang Xin , Xu Ling
Published: February 2024

Background
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant clonal blood disease and the most common type of acute leukemia in adults. Despite continuous advances in treatments, the long-term prognosis of AML has not improved substantially. Tissue-resident memory T cells (TRMs) infiltrating solid tumors could influence tumor progression and the response to immune therapies; however, the proportion and prognostic significance of TRMs in the bone marrow (BM) of patients with AML are unclear.
Methods
We use flow cytometry to assay the phenotypic of 49 BM samples from patients newly diagnosed with AML (ND-AML). The Kaplan–Meier Plotter database verified the relationship between the expression of CD8+ TRM-like T cell characteristic genes (CD8A, CD69, and TOX) and patient survival. Additionally, to further explored the existence and function of TRM-like CD8+ T cells in the BM by analyzing the single cell proteo-genomic dataset of BM from AML and healthy.
Results
We found that the BM CD8+ effector memory (TEM) cells highly expressed CD69 (CD8+ TRM-like T cells), and their number significantly increased in ND-AML compared with that in HIs. The high CD8+ TRM-like subset is associated with poor overall survival. The Kaplan–Meier Plotter database verified that the survival rate of patients with high expression of CD8+ TRM-like T cell characteristic genes was significantly reduced, especially in the M4 and M5 subtypes. Phenotypic analysis revealed that the BM CD8+ TRM-like subpopulation exhibited exhausted T cell characteristics, but its high expression of CD27 and CD28 and low expression of CD57 suggest its high proliferative potential. The single-cell proteogenomic dataset confirmed the existence of TRM-like CD8+ T cells in the BM of AML and verified the high expression of immune checkpoints and costimulatory molecules.
Conclusions
We found that the accumulation of BM CD8+ TRM-like subset could be considered as an immune related survival prediction marker for patients with AML. Although the mechanisms of BM CD8+ TRM-like subset in driving immune escape in AML remains unknown, we believe that the targeted reversal of the function of this subset through immune checkpoint inhibitors and another immune-related “brake” may benefit the survival of some patients with AML.
Short-term effects of "Yijinjing Wohu Pushi" posture-voice therapy on speech in Parkinson's disease after STN-DBS
Authors: sun xin , Yang Mei , Yan Jin , Wang Linbin , Sun Yuxin , Wang Yong , Yan Shiqing , Li Dianyou , Niu Chuanxin M.
Published: February 2024

Hypokinetic dysarthria in Parkinson's Disease (HD-PD) deteriorates patients' quality of life by impeding communication and social engagement. Existing treatments like levodopa drugs and deep brain stimulation (DBS) can improve motor symptoms but fall short in addressing speech-related impairments; effective speech therapies tend not to mandate the posture, which potentially hinders vocal performance. Here we first proposed a therapeutic protocol that specified a lunging-and-clawing posture (Wohu Pushi method from Yijinjing) during vocalization training. The protocol aimed to ensure that PD patients could accomplish the training even with moderate motor impairments. A total of 20 HD-PD patients with implanted stimulators in subthalamic nuclei (STN-DBS) participated in one session of training, either following our posture-voice therapy (PVT) or the conventional voice therapy (CVT). Results indicated that the maximum phonation time was significantly elongated in PVT(3.85±2.81s) but not in CVT(0.46±2.24s), and the formant-distance was significantly increased in PVT(95.80±112.71Hz) compare to CVT(-47.10±84.28Hz). Our results indicated that by demanding appropriate amount of postural maintenance during vocalization, it might facilitate the recovery of speech-related functions. This study warranted larger-scale clinical trials to understand the impact, limitation, and optimization of posture-voice therapy for HD-PD.
VTANet: A Novel Polyp Segmentation Network Based on the Vision Transformer and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Guo Xinping , Wang Lei , Huang Zizhen , Zhang Yukun , Liu ChunXiang , Li Bin
Published: February 2024

The accurate segmentation of the polyp is very important for the diagnosis and treatment plans of the colorectal cancer. Although the UNet model and the models with the U-shaped structure have achieved great success in polyp image segmentation, they are still limited by the colors, sizes and the shapes of polyps, as well as the low contrast, various noise and blurred edges of the colonoscopy, which are easy to result in a large amount of redundant information, the weak complementarity between different levels of features and inaccurate polyp localization. To deal with the special characteristics of the polyps images and improve the segmentation performance, a new segmentation model named VTANet, which is based the pyramid vision transformer and BAM (Bottleneck Attention Module), is developed. The proposed model consists of four modules: the pyramid vision transformer (PVT) encoder, the Feature Aggregation Module (FAM), the Adaptive Attention Fusion Module (AAFM), and the Aggregation Similarity Module (ASM). The PVT learns a more robust representation model, the FAM enhances the complementarity between features by cascading the encoder features and acquiring richer context and fine-grain features. The AAFM makes the polyp localization more accurate by introducing the BAM attention module to obtain richer details of the polyps. To verify the effectiveness and accuracy, experiments on five popularly used datasets are carefully designed and implemented. The segmentation results of six stat-of-the-art methods fully demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method, in the term of the visual comparison and six quantitative metrics, i.e. the Dice, IoU, Mean Absolute Error, weighted F-measure, S-measure, and E-measure.
Establishment and validation of the prognostic risk model based on the anoikis related genes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cao Shasha , Li Ming , Cui Zhiying , Li Yutong , Niu Wei , Zhu Weiwei , Li Junkuo , Duan Lijuan , Lun Shumin , Gao Zhaowei , Zhang Yaowen
Published: February 2024

Background
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a malignant condition in humans. Anoikis related genes (ARGs) are crucial to cancer progression. Therefore, more studies on the relationship between ARGs and ESCC are warranted.
Methods
The study acquired ESCC-related transcriptome data from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA). Differentially expressed ARGs (DE-ARGs) were obtained by performing differential analysis on the training set, and candidates were filtered out by survival analysis of high and low expression groups of DE-ARGs. Prognostic genes were determined by univariate and multivariate Cox and lasso regression based on candidate genes and were analyzed by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). A risk model was constructed on the basis of prognostic gene expressions. To find out how these genes contribute to ESCC development, immune infiltration study was done. Based on prognostic genes, the miRNA-mRNA-TF regulation network was constructed. IC50 test was adopted to assess the clinical response of chemotherapy drug. Single-cell analysis was performed on the GSE145370 dataset. Moreover, with the use of quantitative reverse transcription (qRT)-PCR, we verified prognostic gene expressions.
Results
53 DE-ARGs (46 upregulated; 7 downregulated) were screened by differential analysis. Survival analysis yielded four candidate genes consisting of PBK, LAMC2, TNFSF10 and KL. The two prognostic genes, TNFSF10 and PBK, were determined by univariate and multivariate Cox and lasso regression. In terms of hallmark, TNFSF10 was involved in 32 pathways, and PBK was partake in 34 pathways. In immunomic signatures, 4558 enrichment entries were associated with TNFSF10, like genes downregulated CD8 T cells, PBK enriched to 4262 pathways, such as genes downregulated in B cells. Immuno-infiltration analysis revealed positive associations of PBK with Macrophages M0 cells, and TNFSF10 with Macrophages M1 cells. miRNA-mRNA-TF network was generated with prognostic genes, which contained hsa-miR-562-TNFSF10-FOXO3, hsa-miR-216b-5p-PBK-ATM regulatory relationship pairs, etc. The result of chemotherapy drug susceptibility analysis showed that IC50 values of predicted drugs, in the case of Tozasertib 1096 and WIKI4 1940, were significantly variant between risk groups. Single-cell analysis revealed that TNFSF10 and PBK levels were higher in epithelial cells than in other cells. The prognostic genes expression results by qRT-PCR were compatible with the dataset analysis.
Conclusion
The study explored the biomarkers related to anoikis based on bioinformatics technology and established a prognosis model of ESCC. It provided a reference for the research of ARGs in ESCC.
Oral Enzyme-Responsive Nanoprobes for Targeted Theranostics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Cao Lin , Duan Dengyi , Guo Yunfei , Li Xinwen , Cao Qi , Li Jianmin , Liu Kangkang , Li Yiming , Zhang Wenyi , Liu Shuang , Zhang Xuening , Peng Jing , Zhao Yang
Published: February 2024

Background
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a progressive and debilitating inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Despite recent advances, precise treatment and noninvasive monitoring remain challenging.
Methods
Herein, we developed orally-administered, colitis-targeting and hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified, core-shell curcumin (Cur)- and cerium oxide (CeO2)-loaded nanoprobes (Cur@PC-HA/CeO2 NPs) for computed tomography (CT) imaging-guided treatment and monitoring of IBD in living mice.
Results
Following oral administration, high-molecular-weight HA maintains integrity with little absorption in the upper GIT, and then actively accumulates at local colitis sites owing to its colitis-targeting ability, leading to specific CT enhancement lasting for 24 h. The retained NPs are further degraded by hyaluronidase in the colon to release Cur and CeO2, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Combined with the ability of NPs to regulate intestinal flora, the oral NPs result in substantial relief in symptoms. Following multiple treatments, the gradually decreasing range of the colon with high CT attenuation correlates with the change in the clinical biomarkers, indicating the feasibility of treatment response and remission.
Conclusion
This study provides a proof-of-concept for the design of a novel theranostic integration strategy for concomitant IBD treatment and the real-time monitoring of treatment responses.
RETRACTED: Evaluation of the pest status and population monitoring for the new invasive pest, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), in various crop systems of Georgia (Sakartvelo)
Authors: Japoshvili George , Murvanidze Maka , Inasaridze Nino , Meskhi Nikoloz , Lipartia Zurab , Namicheishvili Luiza
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Factors associated with the risk of malaria among children: Analysis of Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey, 2021
Authors: Isiko Isaac , Nyegenye Simon , Bett Daniel Kiprotich , Jackson Asingwire Micheal , Nwachinemere Okoro Lenz , Awaya Emeribe Nana , Catherine Koech , Ovye Ahgu , Gadzama Bulus Naya , Mwesigwa Aaron
Published: February 2024

Purpose Malaria remains a burden globally, with the African region accounting for 94% of the overall disease burden and deaths in 2019. It is the major cause of morbidity and mortality among children in Nigeria. Thoughdifferent environmental factors have been assessedto influence the distribution and transmission of malaria vectors, there is a shortage of information on how they may influence malaria transmission among under-fives in Nigeria.
Methods This study was based on thesecondary data analysis of the Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey 2021. The study sample comprised 10,645 women (aged 15–49) who delivered a child in the 2 years preceding the survey. The studywas restricted to under-fives. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with the risk of malaria.
Results There was a positive association between the risk of malaria and Heard/seen malaria messages in the last six months (AOR:1.45, 95%CI: 1.23-1.70), houses with walls built using rudimentary materials (AOR=1.44, 95%CI: 1.09-1.91), at least six children living in the house (AOR:1.23, 95%CI: 1.01-1.49), children being 1 or more years old was associated with increased odds (AOR:1.92, 95%CI: 1.52-2.41 and AOR:1.91, 95%CI: 1.54-2.38), children from households with only treated nets (AOR:1.23, 95%CI: 1.04-1.46) and those from the North West or South East regions (AOR:1.56, 95%CI: 1.15-2.11 and AOR:1.51, 95%CI:1.04-2.19), respectively. All other predictors were not associated with the risk of malaria.
Conclusion The factorsassociated with the risk of malaria in this study included sleeping under treated mosquito nets, the age of the children, residing in the northwest and southeast regions, wall construction material, six children and above in the household and heard/seen malaria messages in the last six months. Continuous health education and public health interventions,such as the provision of LLITNs and a portable water supply, will reduce the risk of malaria and improve the health and well-being of children under five years of age.
The Effect of Ensiling Alfalfa with Acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia) Tree Leaves and Sugar Beet Molasses on Silage Fermentation Quality, In-vitro Ruminal Fermentation and Methane Production
Authors: Hassan Mahmood Ul , Gül Mehmet
Published: February 2024

Agroforestry plant leaves notably woody perennials, are widely used to feed animals in many regions of the world, particularly in the tropics. This study also demonstrated a socio-economic and climate viable impact of enislling alfalfa with agroforestry leaves. Acacia is a fast-growing leguminous tree that produces a huge mass of leaves rich in protein (30.43%) and condensed tannins (12.5%), as a waste which can be utilized as a ruminant feed source. In fact, alfalfa is difficult to ensile because it contains a low level of water-soluble carbohydrates, high buffering capacity, prone to extensive proteolysis and nutrient losses. In this study, supplementation of alfalfa silage (AAS) with acacia leaves and molasses significantly decreased NH3-N production and butyric acid content while increasing the acetic acid and dry matter contents of the silage. In the Hohenheim technique, 5% molasses (M5) increased the net gas production, improved the in vitro dry matter degradability and true NDF degradability; meanwhile, reduced the organic matter degradability during daisy incubation of alfalfa silage compared to the control. Moreover, the addition of acacia leaves with three different levels significantly lowered CH4 production, total VFAs, and ruminal NH3-N (an indicator for N excretion) concentrations in a dose-dependent way. The results illustrated that lower level of acacia leaves (3%) in combination with molasses (5%) applied prior to ensiling alfalfa were more useful in reducing silage pH and ruminal NH3-N (p < 0.001), improving the relative feed value and quality (p < 0.001), metabolizable and net energy lactation of AAS (p < 0.001) without any adverse effect on degradability parameters compared to control.
Effectiveness of Schroth Method on Pain, Body Awareness, and Quality of Life in Adolescent Individuals with Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Controlled Trial
Authors: Çelik Fatih , Bulut Numan , Gürbüz İpek
Published: February 2024

Background
Monitoring with regular follow-up, surgery, bracing, electrical stimulation, and exercise modalities has been widely used to treat scoliosis. The effectiveness of the Schroth method in adolescent individuals with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is still unclear.
Aims
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Schroth exercises on pain, body awareness, and quality of life in adolescent individuals (10–18 years) with IS.
Methods
A total of 31 individuals diagnosed with IS were divided into two groups: the study group (n = 16) and the control group (n = 15). Schroth exercises were prescribed to the study group for 1 hour, 3 times a week, for 6 weeks, while the control group performed traditional exercises. Pain severity was evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale, pressure-pain threshold with an algometer, body awareness with the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ), and quality of life with the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS22). Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in pain severity and pressure-pain thresholds, while the study group showed further decreases in pain severity and increases in pain thresholds after 6 weeks (p < 0.05). The BAQ results did not significantly differ between the groups (p > 0.05). SRS22 scores improved in both groups, while pain-related quality of life, treatment satisfaction, and subtotal and total scores on the SRS22 were significantly better in the study group after treatment (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The short-term (< 6 months) intensive application of the Schroth method demonstrated positive therapeutic effects on pain and quality of life in the treatment of adolescent individuals with IS.
One-Dimensional Modelling of the Pressure Loss in Concrete Pumping and Experimental Verification
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Gao Guoqiang , Wan Minshun , Dai Juchuan
Published: February 2024

An accurate formula with high precision for calculating the pressure loss in concrete pumping plays a significant guiding role in the design and service process of pump trucks. Based on the flow characteristics of concrete pumping, a one-dimensional model for the pressure loss was developed in which both the viscous force of the mortar in the lubrication layer and the blocking effect of coarse aggregate particles were considered. First, the complex geometrical shapes of the aggregate particles were reconstructed by using a HandySCAN noncontact 3D laser scanner and the inverse modelling software Geomagic Design X. Then, the equivalent spherical size of uneven aggregate particles was calculated according to the equal hydraulic radius principle. The blocking effect of the aggregate particles was converted into the wall roughness. Finally, an explicit expression for the pressure loss in concrete pumping was deduced by using Modi’s formula, Bernoulli’s equation and Darcy’s formula, and the calculated value was compared with the measured value at a corresponding experimental site. The results indicated that the pressure loss values calculated with the one-dimensional flow model, which are closer to the actual pumping pressure loss values, are more accurate than those obtained with a theoretical empirical formula.
Psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Eco guilt (EGuiQ-11) and Eco grief (EGriQ-6) scales
Authors: Awad Emmanuelle , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Iskandar Katia , Khatib Sami El , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten
Published: February 2024

Objectives: The aim of the study is to validate the Eco guilt (EGuiQ-11) and Eco grief (EGriQ-6) scales for the Lebanese population.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted through a snowball sampling technique in September 2023. 763 adult participants consented to and submitted an online questionnaire that included the following scales: the EGuiQ-11, the EGriQ-6, the Arabic Climate Anxiety Scale and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-8.
Results: The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) of the EGuiQ-11 showed an adequate fit to a unidimensional. Both the EFA and the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) found that the reliability was excellent as shown via a Cronbach alpha of .92 and a McDonald omega of .92. As for the EGriQ-6 , results of the EFA and CFA indicated an adequate fit to a unidimensional structure, and an excellent reliability, with both an alpha coefficient and an omega coefficient of .83-.84 . No statistically significant difference between males and females was found in terms of EGuiQ-11 (t(761) = .862, p = .389) and EGriQ-6 (t(761) = .401, p = .689) scores. Furthermore, higher Eco guilt and Eco grief levels were both significantly associated with higher psychological distress and higher climate anxiety.
Conclusion: These results enable researchers to use scales assessing emotions related to the environment for future studies in Lebanon. It also clarifies the association between the possible effects of environmental change on mental health.
Practicum anxiety and English language preservice teacher preparation in Indonesia: Experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lian Ania , Syahdan Syahdan , Manalu Camelia , Natsir MHD
Published: February 2024

The existing literature on practicum anxiety seldom scrutinises the preservice teachers’ experiences to uncover potential links between the sources of these anxieties and the conceptual frameworks they bring into their practicum journeys. This qualitative study interviewed five first-year preservice English language teachers in Indonesia amid COVID-19 lockdowns, exploring sources of their anxiety and coping strategies. The analysis revealed that, while their coping strategies align with those documented in prior international research, it also yielded novel insights. The preservice teachers in the study lacked conceptual frameworks to aid in translating the national ELT curriculum objectives into practice, did not mention utilising relevant professional literature for additional guidance, and appeared unfamiliar with the school culture at their practicum locations. Arguably, these factors are crucial for fostering a sense of ease during the practicum. Although the scope of this study is limited, its findings highlight the significance of this analysis and stress the necessity for more extensive investigations to gain a fuller understanding of the preservice practicum experience.
Optimizing the impact of vector-borne diseases in India through the best-worst multicriteria decision-making method for prioritizing their distribution based on impact factor
Authors: Abishek  , B Suhana khatoon
Published: February 2024

The term mosquito-borne disease refers to diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. Emerging or re-emerging diseases occur in a previously uninfected region, group, or individual. Several infectious diseases can cause dengue, chikungunya, Zika, West Nile fever, and malaria, for example. As a result of competent mosquitoes and frequent travel to endemic areas, these diseases are likely to emerge or re-emerge in India. Several factors affect the distribution of vectors and/or diseases, including climate conditions, meteorological conditions, the environment, and demographic factors. Several countries with similar environmental conditions such as China, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Bhutan are examined in this paper. It will also identify mosquito vector introductions or spreads. Multicriteria decision-making is used in India to prioritize diseases. In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, we identified, selected, and evaluated relevant studies. 223 of the 469 articles identified in the databases were reviewed. 47 articles between 2000 and 2017 were included in the data set. In the papers, dengue, zika, and chikungunya were discussed. Population density, precipitation, and temperature influenced results. Temperature, precipitation, and NDVI are the most commonly used variables. In 23% of the articles, temperature, precipitation, and water indexes were the largest variables. Recent publications on mosquito-borne diseases indicate that mosquito-borne diseases are becoming more important in India. Environmental and climatic factors influence emerging diseases' spatial distribution and emergence.
Sequencing of ABCA12 gene in severe congenital skin disease
Authors: M Ashokan , KV Jayanthi , GS Naveen kumar , Gowda Hemanth , KA Saravanan
Published: February 2024

Rare disorders in cattle are traditionally poorly diagnosed. Harlequin ichthyosis is a rare genetic disorder of animals, including cattle, reported with hyperkeratinized skin, the presence of scaly plates separated by deep fissure and rudimentary ears. In our investigation, we sequenced ABCA12 gene in the affected calf and its dam. Remarkably, the reported mutation of Chianina cattle (NM_001191294.2:g.103030489T>C) H1935R was found to be absent in the Bos indicus calf and in the dam that was obligatory heterozygous. This finding led us to conclude that allelic heterogeneity plays a crucial role in the existence of the disease.
Traumatic fracture of central venous catheter
Authors: Sabzi Feridoun , Faraji Reza , Bozorgomid Arezoo
Published: February 2024

Central venous catheter (CVC) placement is frequently essential for the management of critically ill patients. This report describes a case involving the surgical retrieval of an embolized fragment of a CVC, originally intended for dialysis, following an unsuccessful removal attempt by a nurse due to catheter malfunction. The decision to remove and replace the malfunctioning catheter was made by the patient's physician. However, during the removal process, both the retaining suture and the catheter were inadvertently severed. This report also discusses the complications and management strategies associated with the embolization of a central line.
Complexation Dynamics of Calcium Ion in Chitosan Monomer: A Theoretical Assessment from the Gas-Phase to Microsolvation Environments
Authors: Camargo Lilian Tatiane , Lopes Filho Wilson Roberto , Shances Neto Flávio , Coutinho Nayara , Camargo Ademir João
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the interaction between calcium ions and glucosamine molecules (GlcN) gas-phase and the interaction of calcium ion with GlcN in the microsolvation environments using Car Parrinello molecular dynamics and density functional theory. Our findings reveal stable complexation between GlcN and calcium ions at various molecular sites in gas-phase and in the microsolvation environments. Furthermore, the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) analyses indicate a predominantly ionic character for all interactions in both gas-phase and microsolvation systems. The Natural Bond Orbital analyses demonstrate that the calcium ion serves as an electron acceptor, receiving lone pairs of electrons from oxygen and nitrogen atoms for its vacant orbitals. A comprehensive understanding of GlcN-calcium-water interactions at the molecular level can contribute to new research directions and applications for chitosan and its monomer, glucosamine, in the pharmacological domain.
Estimating the percentage effects of Bemacid red dye adsorption dynamic parameters using a full factorial design approach
Authors: Ouazani Fouzia , Guella Sofiane , Khalfi Yassine , Benouis Khedidja
Published: February 2024

In this study, we investigate the removal of Bemacid red dye using brewery waste in a packed bed column. We examined the effects of bed height, inlet flow, and inlet dye concentration on the column dynamics of adsorption. To assess the favorable column dynamics, we analyzed the breakthrough curves (BTCs). We also used the Clark, Thomas, Bed Depth Service Time (BDST), and Adams-Bohart models to determine the kinetic constants of the adsorption column from the obtained results of the dynamic studies curve of the BTCs. Analysis of the BTC studies revealed that both the BTCs time and worn-out time values increased with an increase in bed height and inlet Bemacid red dye dosage but decreased with an increase in the inlet flow rate. The results further showed that Thomas’ model was the most suitable for describing the entire BTCs (R2 > 0.93). Using a full factorial design to estimate the percentage effects of cited dynamic parameters, we found that these parameters accounted for 98% of the adsorption capacity. This methodology for estimation provides crucial information on the effects of parameters and the extent to which the adsorption capacity depends on the studied parameters.
Usability of simplified UV–Vis spectrophotometric methods for the determination of nitrate in the presence of organic matter and chloride as interfering factors
Authors: Silva Marcela Fernandes , Bermejo de Lima Luana , de Camargo Carolina , Telles Benatti Claudia
Published: February 2024

The presence of nitrate in groundwater and surface water in concentrations above levels suitable for human consumption is an increasingly common problem. This is mainly due to human activity, such as the excessive use of fertilizers and the inadequate deactivation of pits. Water analysis laboratories very often carry out analyses to determine nitrate to control the presence of this anion in water intended for human consumption. One of the most commonly used methods is spectrophotometry, both with commercially available kits and by direct measurement of specific wavelengths. However, in these methods, the presence of organic matter and chloride can influence the results obtained. Thus, in this study, the applicability of the simplification (without acidification) of two methods for the determination of nitrate in water by ultraviolet–visible absorbance was verified in the presence of the above-mentioned interfering factors, and it was found that the absorbance method at 220 nm corrected for the absorbance at 275 nm, in its simplified form without acidification, can be used with concentrations of organic matter of 20 mg L−1 for high nitrate concentrations (10 mg L−1 NO3-N).
Effects of climate and land use change on runoff of the Second Songhua River Basin guided by SWAT model
Authors: Liu Hongxue , Liu Jifa , Chen Wanqiu
Published: February 2024

The driving effect of global climate change (CC) on the ecohydrological process was quantitatively evaluated. Based on Geographic Information System technology, a Soil and Water Assessment Tool model suitable for watershed hydrological simulation was constructed to study the impact of climate and land-use change on runoff in the Second Songhua River (SSR) basin. Within the base period (1965–2010), the annual average temperature (AAT) of the SSR basin is 4.2 °C. Under the CC scenario representing concentration pathway (RCP) 4.5, the AAT of the watershed increased to 5.4 °C between 2020 and 2049. Under the CC scenarios of RCP 8.5 and RCP 4.5, the temperature in the watershed increased by 1.1 and 0.2 °C in June, respectively. The research results indicate that (1) there is a positive correlation between runoff and precipitation in the SSR watershed, and a negative correlation with temperature; (2) when the precipitation remains unchanged, the temperature increases by 1 °C and the runoff decreases by 7.2%; and (3) when the temperature remains constant, for every 10% increase in precipitation, the runoff increases by 30.5%. This study provides the scientific basis for water resource planning and sustainable development in the Northeast region and has important practical significance.
Drug-target Affinity Prediction by Molecule Secondary Structure Representation Network
Authors: Tang Yuewei , Li Yunhai , Li Pengpai , Liu Zhi-Ping
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Identification of drug-target interactions (DTI) is a crucial step
in drug development with high specificity and low toxicity. To accelerate the process,
computer-aided DTI prediction algorithms have been used to screen compounds or targets
rapidly. Furthermore, DTI prediction can be used to identify potential targets for existing
drugs, thus uncovering new indications and repositioning them. Therefore, it is of
great importance to develop efficient and accurate DTI prediction algorithms.

Method:

Current algorithms usually represent drugs as extracted features, which are
learned by convolutional neural networks (CNNs) from its linear representation, or utilize
graph neural networks (GNNs) to learn its graph representation. However, these
methods either lose information or fail to capture the structural information of the drug.
To address this issue, a novel molecule secondary structure representation network
(MSSRN) is proposed to learn drug characterization more accurately. Firstly, the network
performs relational graph convolutional networks (R-GCNs) on the drug's molecular
graph and integrates drug sequence convolutions to learn the sequential information.
Secondly, inspired by the attention mechanism, spatial importance weights of the drug
sequence are calculated to guide R-GCNs to learn the topological information of the
drug.

objective:

Identification of drug-target interactions (DTI)

Result:

A drug-target affinity model, called MSSRN-DTA, was then constructed by using
MSSRN to learn drug structure and CNN to learn protein sequence.

Conclusion:

The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by comparing it with
other alternative methods and baseline models on two benchmark datasets.
Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Diaryl Tellurides Under Mechanical Ball Milling in
Room Temperature
Authors: Roy Anup , Panja Subir , Basu Pradipta Kumar , Kundu Debasish
Published: February 2024

An efficient transition metal catalyst-free protocol for the synthesis of unsymmetrical
diaryl tellurides has been developed by the reaction of diaryl tellurides and aryl diazonium
tetrafluoroborates under mechanical ball milling in the absence of any solvent and base
under room temperature. InBr (Indium Bromide) plays an important role in generating the
organotelluride nucleophile via the Te-Te bond cleavage of ditelluride. A library of diaryl
tellurides bearing both electron-donating and withdrawing groups in the aromatic ring has
been synthesized in good to excellent yields by this protocol. Despite very high synthetic
importance of diaryl tellurides in the field of organic synthesis, very few protocols have
been reported to date for their synthesis. The reactions were also performed on a gram scale
without any considerable change in the yields, which surely broadened the applicability of
this methodology in the industrial field.
Is Ancient Medical Treatment an Option for Curating Osteosarcoma
Combined with Chemotherapy? A Basic Analysis of Clinic Pharmacy
Authors: Hu Jian-yu , Gao Ya-ru , Bao Yu-qi , Zhao Jing , Liu Bo , Zhao Chang-wei , Zhang Zheng-yao
Published: February 2024

Background::

As a malignant tumor, osteosarcoma (OS) ranks first place among adolescent
cancers and is susceptible to developing resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Differently,
traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has multiple pharmacodynamic targets and complex biological
components, which can inhibit tumor survival and drug resistance and gradually play an important
role in the treatment of sarcoma.

Methods::

This study is to systematically evaluate the safety and efficacy of TCM combined with
chemotherapy performed in the clinical treatment of OS. Based on multiple mainstream databases,
eleven articles on the relationship between natural products and chemotherapy involving 656 patients
were selected from all the literature published as of June 2022. Revman 5.4 software was
used for a comprehensive search analysis, supplemented by established exclusion criteria, the
Jadad scale, and the evaluation methods provided by Cochrane.

Results::

The efficiency of TCM combined with chemotherapy was significantly increased compared
with chemical drugs alone [OR=2.56, 95% CI (1.36,4.79), Z=2.92, P=0.003]. Meanwhile,
the adverse reactions such as nausea and vomiting, hepatotoxicity, and hematological changes
caused by chemical drugs were alleviated correspondingly.

Conclusion::

This study indicates that the mode of TCM combined with chemotherapy sheds light
on the clinical treatment of OS, which is much better than the one-way mode.
Effect of High Altitude Environment on Pharmacokinetic and
Pharmacodynamic of Warfarin in Rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Mu Hongfang , Zhong Yan , Wang Rong , Li Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Background:

High altitude environment affects the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of drugs and
the PK parameters are an important theoretical basis for guiding the rational clinical use of drugs. Warfarin is
an oral anticoagulant of the coumarin class commonly used in clinical practice, but it has a narrow therapeutic
window and wide individual variation. However, the effect of high altitude environment on PK and pharmacodynamic
(PD) of warfarin is unclear.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of a high altitude environment on PK and PD
of warfarin in rats.

Method:

Rats were randomly divided into plain group and high altitude group and blood samples were collected
through the orbital venous plexus after administration of 2 mg/kg warfarin. Warfarin concentrations in plasma
samples were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and PK parameters
were calculated by the non-compartment model using WinNonlin 8.1 software. Meanwhile, the expression
of PXR, P-gp and CYP2C9 in liver tissues was also determined by western blotting. The effect of
high altitude environment on PD of warfarin was explored by measuring activated partial thromboplastin time
(APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) values and then calculated international normalized ratio (INR) values
based on PT.

Results:

Significant changes in PK behaviors and PD of warfarin in high altitude-rats were observed. Compared
with the plain-rats, the peak concentration (Cmax) and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve
(AUC) increased significantly by 50.9% and 107.46%, respectively. At the same time, high altitude environment
significantly inhibited the expression of PXR, P-gp and CYP2C9 in liver tissues. The results of the PD
study showed that high altitude environments significantly prolonged PT, APTT and INR values.

Conclusion:

High altitude environment inhibited the metabolism and increased the absorption of warfarin in
rats and increased the effect of anticoagulant effect, suggesting that the optimal dose of warfarin for patients at
high altitude should be reassessed.
Surface Functionalized Lipid Nanoparticles in Promoting Therapeutic
Outcomes: An Insight View of the Dynamic Drug Delivery System
Authors: Manchanda Namish , Vishkarma Harish , Goyal Muskan , Shah Saurabh , Famta Paras , Talegaonkar Sushama , Srivastava Saurabh
Published: February 2024

Compared to the conventional approach, nanoparticles (NPs) facilitate a non-hazardous,
non-toxic, non-interactive, and biocompatible system, rendering them incredibly promising
for improving drug delivery to target cells. When that comes to accomplishing specific therapeutic
agents like drugs, peptides, nucleotides, etc., lipidic nanoparticulate systems have emerged as
even more robust. They have asserted impressive ability in bypassing physiological and cellular
barriers, evading lysosomal capture and the proton sponge effect, optimizing bioavailability, and
compliance, lowering doses, and boosting therapeutic efficacy. However, the lack of selectivity at
the cellular level hinders its ability to accomplish its potential to the fullest. The inclusion of surface
functionalization to the lipidic NPs might certainly assist them in adapting to the basic biological
demands of a specific pathological condition. Several ligands, including peptides, enzymes,
polymers, saccharides, antibodies, etc., can be functionalized onto the surface of lipidic NPs to
achieve cellular selectivity and avoid bioactivity challenges. This review provides a comprehensive
outline for functionalizing lipid-based NPs systems in prominence over target selectivity. Emphasis
has been put upon the strategies for reinforcing the therapeutic performance of lipidic nano
carriers' using a variety of ligands alongside instances of relevant commercial formulations.