bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stable Production of a Recombinant Eel Luteinizing Hormone Analog with High Potency in CHO DG44 Cells
Authors: Byambaragchaa Munkhzaya , Park Sei Hyen , Kim Sang-Gwon , Shin Min Gyu , Kim Shin-Kwon , Hur Sung-Pyo , Park Myung-Hum , Kang Myung-Hwa , Min Kwan-Sik
Published: May 2024

We produced a recombinant eel luteinizing hormone (rec-eel LH) analog with high potency in Chinese hamster ovary DG44 (CHO DG44) cells. The eel LH mutant (LH-M), which had a linker comprising the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) β-subunit carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) region (amino acids 115 to149), was inserted between the β-subunit and α-subunit of wild-type tethered eel LH (LH-wt). Monoclonal cells transfected with the eel LH-wt and eel LH-M plasmids were isolated from five and nine clones of CHO DG44 cells, respectively. The secreted quantities abruptly increased on day 3, with peak levels of 5,000–7,500 ng/mL on day 9. The molecular weight of eel LH-wt was 32–36 kDa while that of eel LH-M increased to approximately 38–44 kDa, indicating the detection of two bands. Treatment with peptide N-glycanase F decreased the molecular weight by approximately 8 kDa. The oligosaccharides at the eCG β-subunit O-linked glycosylation sites were appropriately modified post-translation. The EC50 value and maximal responsiveness of eel LH-M increased by approximately 2.90- and 1.29-fold, respectively, indicating that the mutant exhibited more potent biological activity than eel LH-wt. Phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase (pERK1/2) activation resulted in a sharp peak 5 min after agonist treatment, with a rapid decrease thereafter. These results indicate that the new rec-eel LH analog which contains the eCG β-subunit CTP linker comprising O-linked glycosylation sites, had more potent activity than the wild-type in vitro. Taken together, this new eel LH analog can be produced in large quantities using a stable CHO DG44 cell system.
Microbicides for Topical HIV Immunoprophylaxis: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Zhernov Yury V. , Petrova Vladislava O. , Simanduyev Mark Y. , Vysochanskaya Sonya O. , Al-khaleefa Ezzulddin , Pashayeva Kamilla R. , Feyziyeva Narmina Yu.
Published: May 2024

Microbicides, topical antiseptic agents, and a revolutionary advance in HIV prevention aim to prevent the entry of infectious agents into the human body, thus stopping the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Microbicides represent the promise of a new age in preventive measures against one of the world's most pressing health challenges. In addition to their direct antiviral effects during HIV transmission, microbicides also influence vaginal mucosal immunity. This article reviews microbicides by presenting different drug classifications and highlighting significant representatives from each group. It also explains their mechanisms of action and presents information about vaginal mucosal immune responses, emphasizing the critical role they play in responding to HIV during sexual transmission. For each chemical compound, the article provides a brief overview of relevant preclinical and clinical research, emphasizing their potential as microbicides.The article offers insights into the multifaceted impact of microbicides, which signify a pivotal step forward in the pursuit of effective and accessible pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Cardiac Adaptation in Performance Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ursu Cosmin-Gabriel , Busnatu Ștefan Sebastian , Cristea Cristiana-Flavia , Makdah Obaida , Feras Al Krayem , Miricescu Daniela , Nica Silvia , Dumitrescu Silviu Ionel , Stefani Constantin , Greabu Maria , Stanescu-Spinu Iulia-Ioana , Jinga Mariana , Stanciu Silviu
Published: May 2024

Athlete’s heart is characterised by structural, functional, and electrical remodelling. During an exercise session, the heart increases the use of oxygen, which is associated with decreased vascular resistance in the lungs’ circulation. Left ventricular hypertrophy is an echocardiographic modification especially met in endurance athlete’s heart. Moreover, left atrial dilatation represents another important characteristic of endurance athletes. Electrical modulation in the athletic heart induces neurological modifications leading to sinus arrhythmia, bradycardia, early repolarisation, and first-grade atrioventricular (AV) blocks. Athletes' nutritional status involves the assimilation of macronutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Depending on the duration of physical exercise, ATP can be obtained in aerobic or anaerobic conditions. This systematic review aims to find correlations between different evaluative methods of cardiac adaptation and present the metabolism in performance athletes.
MEG3-Mediated Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Derived Exosomal miR-421 Activates Angiogenesis by Targeting HS2ST1 in Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Huang Chia-Yun , Chou Sung-Tau , Hsu Yuan-Ming , Chao Wan-Ju , Wu Guan-Hsun , Hsiao Jenn-Ren , Wang Horng-Dar , Shiah Shine-Gwo
Published: May 2024

Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) from cancer cells play a key role in mediating the oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) microenvironment. The objective aimed to investigate how long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MEG3 affects OSCC angiogenesis through exosomal miR-421. Global miRNA microarray analysis and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were performed to determine the level of miRNAs in OSCC cells-derived exosomes. Cell migration, invasion, tube formation, immunohistochemistry and hemoglobin concentration were used to study the effects of exosomal miR-421 in angiogenesis. Western blotting was used to determine the expression level of HS2ST1 and VEGFR2-related downstream proteins. MiRNA array and qRT-PCR identified upregulation of miR-421 in OSCC cell-derived exosomes. Furthermore, exosome-miR-421 can be taken up by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and then targets HS2ST1 through VEGF-mediated ERK and AKT phosphorylation, thereby promoting HUVEC migration, invasion, and tube formation. Additionally, enforced expression of lncRNA MEG3 in OSCC cells reduced exosomal miR-421 levels and then increased HS2ST1 expression, thereby reducing the VEGF/VEGFR2 pathway in HUVEC. Our results demonstrate a novel mechanism by which lncRNA MEG3 can act as a tumor suppressor and regulate endothelial angiogenesis through the exosomal miR-421/HS2ST1 axis, which provides a potential therapeutic strategy for OSCC angiogenesis.
Dual-Portal Robotic-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (DRATS) and Indocyanine Green-Navigated Segmentectomy
Authors: Kuzmych Khrystyna , Sassorossi Carolina , Nachira Dania , Congedo Maria Teresa , Margaritora Stefano , Meacci Elisa
Published: May 2024

Background: In the landscape of thoracic surgery, innovation continually drives progress, offering novel approaches to address complex pathologies while prioritizing patient well-being. Dual-portal robotic-assisted thoracic surgery DRATS represents the next frontier in this evolution. In this report we describe our experience with the DRATS approach for segmentectomy with the indocyanine green intersegmental plane identification. Methods: We presented the case of a patient who underwent a DRATS lingulectomy and lymphadenectomy stations 5, 6, 7, and 10 using the daVinci Surgical System. Results: The patient's postoperative course was uneventful with chest tube was removed in second post operative day. The final pathological analysis confirmed a low-grade malignant potential adenocarcinoma, with main diameter of 1.1 cm, at 3 cm from lung margins. 12 nodes were removed, from station 5,6,7,10,11, all of the free of metastases. Conclusions: Our initial observations suggest that Dual-Portal Robotic-Assisted Tho-racic Surgery (DRATS) demonstrates notable feasibility.
A Step Towards CO2 Sequestration through Mineral Carbonation: Using Ammonium Based Lixiviants for the Dissolution of Calcium from Iron Making Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Kohitlhetse Itumeleng C. , Manono Malibongwe Shadrach , Motsetse Catherine K. , Mendonidis Peter M.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, technical processes for the sequestration of CO2 through industrial waste mineral carbonation have been explored and developed. There is a large portfolio of Carbon Capture, Uti-lisation and Storage (CCUS) techniques that have been employed on a laboratory and at pilot scale. These include geological storage, ocean storage and mineralisation by carbonate ores. In view of this, the main purpose of this research was to investigate and explore chemical variables, particularly ammonium salts as lixiviants for calcium mineral extraction from iron making slag. The slag in use was acquired from a Steel Mill in the Vaal Triangle Region in Gauteng, South Af-rica. The experimental test work was conducted using different ammonium lixiviants, namely, NH4NO3, NH4Cl and CH3COONH4 to understand the influence of anion type as well as possible differences in mechanisms of interactions. Lixiviant concentration as well as the reaction time were varied in this research study. The three selected ammonium based lixiviants showed different extents of calcium extraction owing to differences in the anion groups. NH4NO3, NH4Cl and CH3COONH4 were found capable of dissolving 50% to 80% of calcium from the selected slag for different molar concentrations. Anion type and leaching time also had significant influences on the leaching of calcium from the slag. Rapid pH degradation resulted in better calcium extraction ca-pabilities. This work has shown that the selected ammonium salts have a potential as lixiviants for calcium dissolution from iron making blast furnace slags. These lixiviants would therefore be important to consider during calcium mineral carbonation for CO2 sequestration.
Nursing Attitudes Questionnaire: Testing the Psychometric Characteristics of the Italian Version (NAQ-IV)
Authors: Rubbi Ivan , Conte Luana , Pasquinelli Gianandrea , Ferri Paola , Vitale Elsa , Lupo Roberto , Cremonini Valeria
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The image of the nurse is a source of concern because of its impact on recruitment to the profession, policy decisions about the profession, funding of nursing services, consumer use of nursing services and how the image of the nurse affects nursing practice.
Aim: This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of the Italian version of the Nursing Attitudes Questionnaire (NAQ-IV).
Methods: 564 persons between the years 2022 and 2023 with heterogeneous ages and occupations from Northern, Central and Southern Italy participated in the study. Cronbach's alpha, item versus total correlations, skewness and kurtosis were calculated; factor analysis was performed using principal axis factoring and the viramax rotation method. Results: The results showed a Cronbach's alpha of 0.89 on the scale and between 0.88 and 0.89 between the factors; all items tested for correlation between the item and the total and the criteria for variance in the responses. Factor analysis showed a 4-factor model explaining more than 59.91% of the variance, with the largest variance being explained by the 'Role & professionalism' factor (25.96%).
Conclusion: These results allow for a discussion regarding the theoretical framework of the NAQ-IV and provide a reliable and valid instrument for the comparison of welfare, organisation of health services, role, professionalism, stereotypes, values, advocacy, motivation and perceived satisfaction with the figure of the nurse and nursing care.
Abstractive Summarization Model for Summarizing Scientific Article
Authors: Ülker Mehtap , Özer Ahmet Bedri
Published: May 2024

The rapid growth in scientific article publications allows us to access articles as soon as possible. Therefore, automatic summarization systems (ATSs) are widely preferred. In most studies, the en-tire source document is expected to be summarized, just as it would be summarized by a human. Summarizing long articles, such as scientific articles, is quite difficult due to token restraint and extraction of scientific words. To address this problem, a novel Graph-Based Abstractive Summa-rization (GBAS) model is proposed, which is a novel scientific text summarization model based on SciBERT and the graph transformer network (GTN). The document's integrity is maintained since the SciIE system uses the graph structure to create a terminology-based document structure. Therefore, long documents are also summarized. The proposed model is compared with baseline models and human evaluation. Human evaluation results show that the results of the proposed model are informative, fluent, and consistent with the ground-truth summary. The experimental results indicate that the proposed model outperforms baseline models with a 37.10 and 34.96 ROUGE-L score.
Port Accessibility Depends on Cascading Interactions between Fleets, Policies, Infrastructure, and Hydrodynamics
Authors: Bakker Floor Pieter , van der Werff Solange , Baart Fedor , Kirichek Alex , de Jong Sander , van Koningsveld Mark
Published: May 2024

Reducing waiting times is crucial for ports to be efficient and competitive. Important causes of waiting times are cascading interactions between realistic hydrodynamics, accessibility policies, vessel-priority rules, and detailed berth availability. The main challenges are determining the cause of waiting and finding rational solutions to reduce waiting time. In this study, we focus on the role of the design depth of a channel on the waiting times. We quantify the performance of channel depth for a representative fleet rather than the common approach of a single normative design vessel. It relies on a mesoscale agent-based discrete-event model that can take processed Automatic Identification System and hydrodynamic data as its main input. The presented method’s validity is assessed by hindcasting one year of observed anchorage area laytimes for a liquid bulk terminal in the Port of Rotterdam. The hindcast demonstrates that the method predicts the causes of 73.4% of the non-excessive laytimes of vessels, thereby correctly modelling 60.7% of the vessels-of-call. Following a recent deepening of the access channel, cascading waiting times due to tidal restrictions were found to be limited. Nonetheless, the importance of our approach is demonstrated by testing alternative maintained bed level designs, revealing the method’s potential to support rational decision-making in coastal zones.
Design and Evaluation of a Powered Exoskeleton for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: An Experimental Study of Safety, Usability, and Kinematic Performance
Authors: Oyama Hideki , Ikeda Hiroyasu
Published: May 2024

Exoskeleton technology has been shown to be useful for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), potentially facilitating their recovery of motor function and social reintegration. However, studies on the safety and usability of exoskeletons are limited. This study aimed to design a powered exoskeleton for SCI and evaluate its safety and usability. Ten healthy adults participated in this study. The prototype exoskeleton featured an adjustable frame, computer-controlled hip and knee joint actuators, and a gait-trigger sensor. The experimental actions included walking, standing, and sitting, with and without the prototype. Safety outcomes included adverse events, vital signs, numerical rating scale (NRS) scores for pain, discomfort, and fatigue, and prototype-human body clearance. Usability outcomes included donning and doffing times, subjective ratings, gait speed, stride length, and kinematic parameters of hip and knee joint angles. Safety outcomes showed no serious adverse events, stable vital signs, minimal NRS scores, and acceptable clearance. Usability outcomes showed high efficiency and received positive ratings. Kinematic parameters showed significant positive correlations between normal walking and walking with the prototype for both hip and knee joint angles, confirming its effectiveness in assisting walking. However, further device improvements and gait parameter tuning are necessary for future clinical application.
Advancing BiVO4 Photoanode Activity for Ethylene Glycol Oxidation via Strategic pH Control
Authors: Cui Jun-Yuan , Li Tian-Tian , Chen Long , Wang Jian-Jun
Published: May 2024

The photoelectrochemical (PEC) conversion of organic small molecules offers a dual benefit of synthesizing value-added chemicals and concurrently producing hydrogen (H2). Ethylene glycol, with its dual hydroxyl groups, stands out as a versatile organic substrate capable of yielding various C1 and C2 chemicals. In this study, we demonstrate that pH modulation markedly enhances the photocurrent of BiVO4 photoanodes, thus facilitating the efficient oxidation of ethylene glycol while simultaneously generating H2. Our findings reveal that in a pH=1 ethylene glycol solution, the photocurrent density at 1.23 V vs. RHE can attain an impressive 7.1 mA cm−2, significantly surpassing the outputs in neutral and highly alkaline environments. The increase in photocurrent is attributed to the augmented adsorption of ethylene glycol on BiVO4 under acidic conditions, which in turn elevates the activity of the oxidation reaction, culminating in the maximal production of formic acid. This investigation sheds light on the pivotal role of electrolyte pH in the PEC oxidation process and underscores the potential of the PEC strategy for biomass valorization into value-added products alongside H2 fuel generation.
Exploring Opioid Prescription Patterns and Overdose Rates in South Carolina (2017-2021): Insights into Rising Deaths High-Risk Areas
Authors: Sahebi-Fakhrabad Amirreza , Sadeghi Amir Hossein , Kemahlioglu-Ziya Eda , Handfield Robert
Published: May 2024

With opioid overdose rates on the rise, we aim to develop a county-level risk stratification, specifically focusing on access to Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and high overdose rates. We examined over 15 million records from the South Carolina Prescription Tracking System (SCRIPTS) across 46 counties. Additionally, we incorporated data from opioid treatment programs, healthcare professionals prescribing naltrexone, clinicians with buprenorphine waivers, and county-level overdose fatality statistics. To assess the risk of opioid misuse, we classified counties into high-risk and low-risk categories based on prescription rates, overdose fatalities, and treatment service availability. Utilizing statistical methods, we compared prescription patterns and outcomes between these groups. Our study shows that between 2017 and 2021, opioid prescriptions decreased from 64,223 to 41,214 per 100,000 residents, while fentanyl-related overdose deaths increased by 312%. High-risk counties have significantly higher rates of fentanyl prescriptions and rely more on out-of-state doctors. They also exhibit higher instances of doctor shopping and had fewer medical doctors per capita, with limited access to MOUD. To effectively combat the opioid crisis, we advocate for improved local healthcare infrastructure, broader treatment access, stricter management of out-of-state prescriptions, and vigilant tracking of prescription patterns. Tailored local strategies are essential for mitigating the opioid epidemic in these communities.
Ignacio Orozco. Un republicano de armas y de letras
Authors: Orozco Orozco Víctor Manuel
Published: May 2024

El discurso sintetiza la intensa vida militar y política del coronel y abogado Ignacio Orozco Sandoval quien desempeñó relevantes actividades en la Guerra de Reforma (1858-60) y la Intervención Francesa (1862-67). Se trata de un personaje histórico cuya vida es poco conocida a pesar de la notabilidad en su época. Ignacio Orozco dio además ejemplos de honestidad y congruencia entre sus acciones y sus principios, sostenidos tanto en el campo militar como en el político.
Improving the efficiency of industrial samples of silicon solar elements
Authors: Zaitsev Roman , Kirichenko Mikhail , Minakova Kseniia , Drozdov Anton , Shkoda Dmytro
Published: May 2024

Possibilities of increasing the efficiency by more than 20 % for silicon photoelectric converters made in China have been investigated. It has been established by the method of computer simulation that the life-times of nonequilibrium charge carriers, which are 520 μs, realized in such photoelectric converters, do not limit the possibility of increasing their efficiency by more than 20 %. It is shown that an increase in the photocurrent density to 43.1 mA/cm2 leads to an increase in efficiency to 20.1 %, and a decrease in the diode saturation current density to 3.1∙10-14 A/cm2 leads to an increase in efficiency to 20.4 %. Simultaneous change of these diode characteristics leads to an increase in efficiency to 23.1 %. The paper proposes physical and technological approaches to increase the photocurrent density and reduce the diode saturation current density in ready-made photovoltaic converters. The study of the influence of operating temperature on the efficiency of crystalline silicon photoelectric converters is carried out in the article. It is shown that with increasing operating temperature the relative decrease in the efficiency of single-crystal devices is –0.7 relative %/C, which is significantly higher than in the instrument structures of European production and due to non-traditional decrease in short-circuit current density. Mathematical modeling of the influence of light-emitting diode characteristics on the efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells showed that the decrease in the efficiency of instrument structures with increasing operating temperature is due not only to an increase in diode saturation current density from 10-13 A to 3·10-13 A, which is 300 %, but also by reducing the shunt resistance from 2.5 kOhm to 1.5 kOhm. A study of the effect of operating temperature on the diode saturation current showed that the height of the potential barrier in the studied silicon photovoltaic converters is 0.87 eV, due to the insufficient level of doping of the base material. The limited height of the potential barrier leads to an unconventional decrease in the shunt resistance with increasing operating temperature.
Service life estimation, failure mechanisms, and specifications of galvanic anodes for corroding reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Manickam Karthikeyan , Pillai Radhakrishna
Published: May 2024

Cathodic protection using galvanic anodes is a proven technique to control or prevent corrosion of steel in reinforced concrete structures. However, huge variations have been observed in the properties of various galvanic anodes available in the concrete repair market and their resulting performance. This work assessed the performance of five commercially available galvanic anodes using an earlier developed Galvanic Anode Performance (GAP) test. In addition, a methodology to estimate the guaranteed minimum service life (SLmin) of galvanic anodes in concrete systems exposed to specific environmental conditions is developed. This methodology involves the determination of electrochemical capacity (i.e., total electrical charge drawn) of galvanic anodes and the corrosion rate of galvanic anodes using potentiostatic scans. It was found that the average SLmin of the five anodes tested under severe laboratory exposure conditions (Relative humidity of 100% and temperature of 25 ± 2 ºC) ranged from about 3 months to 7 years – indicating huge variation in the quality of various galvanic anodes. The analysis of the physico-chemical characteristics of the encapsulating mortar of pristine and aged galvanic anodes showed that the average SLmin depends on the pH, activator content, total pore volume, and critical pore entry diameter of the encapsulating mortar and is irrespective of the mass of zinc. Also, the failure mechanisms of galvanic anodes observed during the GAP test are conceptualized and correlated to the properties of encapsulating mortar. Finally, a set of prescriptive and performance specifications for the selection of galvanic anode systems to achieve a target service life of repair is presented.
Early versus late pancreatic stent placement for preventing post-ERCP pancreatitis: protocol of a multicentre randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wang Shaofei , Bai Bingqing , hong Jianglong , Xu Wei , Shen Zongyi , Xue Yongju , Zhang Yan , Li Mengwen , Ge Xiaoyuan , Zhang Weiping , Jie Lei , Shi Chen , Hu Cui , Wang Bingbing , Ding Hao , Li Suwen , Li Dapeng , Lu Qifeng , Li Yang , Liu Xiaochang , Hong Rutao , Mei Qiao , Bao Junjun
Published: May 2024

Background:Pancreatic stenting has been shown to effectively lower the occurrence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and reduce its severity. To date, no evidence exists to determine the optimal timing for pancreatic stent placement in prospective trials. Our aim is to compare early versus late pancreatic stent placement in preventing PEP among patients with naive papilla.
Methods/Design: The EVL (Early stenting vs. Late stenting) trial is a multi-centre, single-blind, randomized, and controlled trial. All patients with difficult biliary cannulation undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with pancreatic guidewire-assisted technique for biliary access will be told about the opportunity to participate in EVL research. In total, 768 patients will be randomly assigned (1:1) to two arms: (1) early pancreatic stent placement (EPSP) (a pancreatic stent will be placed immediately after endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) or endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST)) and (2) late pancreatic stent placement (LPSP) (a pancreatic stent will be placed after all completion of therapeutic biliary procedures, e.g. biliary stone removal or drainage). The primary outcome is the rate and severity of PEP. The secondary outcomes are hyperamylasemia, the rate of stenting success, and other ERCP-related adverse events (AEs).
Discussion: The EVL trial will provide essential answers regarding the optimal timing of prophylactic pancreatic stent placement in PEP prevention. Our findings could change ERCP outcomes and practices.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.govNCT06250803. Registered on February 9, 2024.
Fatigue May Predict Thrombocytopenic Episodes in ITP
Authors: Lakhwani Sunil Lakhwani , Pérez Cristina Elena Hernandez , Pedro Carlos González , González Marta Mora , Pinilla Belén Pérez , Reyes Sandra Iraheta , Salazar María José Rodríguez , García Miguel T. Hernández
Published: May 2024

We conducted an observational and retrospective study to determine whether fatigue could predict thrombocytopenic episodes in ITP and whether improvement in fatigue could predict platelet response. Data were collected from clinical records and a survey. We included 82 patients with ITP who had at least one relapse. Fatigue was present in 45 patients (54.9%), of whom 19 (23.2%) reported that fatigue preceded the episode (median 15 days prior) and 18 patients (21.9%) reported that fatigue resolved prior to response confirmation (median 4 days prior). In conclusion, fatigue may predict relapse or response in approximately 1 in 5 patients with ITP.
Synthesis of heterostructure ferromagnetic photocatalyst FMMWCNTs@GLYMO@WO3 and its performance for photodegradation of metronidazole and acetaminophen in water
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Maryam Sadat , Ahmadpour Ali
Published: May 2024

The presence of metronidazole (MNZ) and acetaminophen (ACE) in aquatic environments has raised growing concerns regarding their potential impact on human health. Incorporating various patterns into a photolytic material is considered a key approach to achieve enhanced photocatalytic efficiency in the photocatalysis process. In this study, WO3 nanoparticles, which were immobilized onto ferromagnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes that were functionalized using (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (FMMWCNTs@GLYMO@WO3), exhibited remarkable efficiency in removing MNZ and ACE (93% and 97%) in only 15 min. In addition, the new visible-light FMMWCNTs@GLYMO@WO3 nanoparticles as a magnetically separable photocatalyst were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), EDS-mapping, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) due to detailed studies (morphological, structural, magnetic and optical properties) of the photocatalyst. The evaluation of optimal parameters, for example, concentration, amount of photocatalyst, and pH was conducted. The mechanistic study of ACE degradation presented the considerable contribution of electrons and holes in the photocatalytic reaction of photocatalysts. Furthermore, following five regeneration cycles, FMMWCNTs@GLYMO@WO3 NPs showed high performance as a ferromagnetic photocatalyst for the sustainable degradation of MNZ and ACE, achieving degradation rates of 86% and 89%, respectively.
Accumulation, contamination, health and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in landfill soil: Case study of Shiraz city in the Middle East
Authors: Ghandeharizadeh Ali , Dehghani mansooreh , Azhdarpoor Abolfazl , Hashemi Hassan , Haghighi Azadeh Binai , Shamsedini Narges
Published: May 2024

Population concentration in metropolitan areas generates and disposes of substantial quantities of waste with varying compositions. Transporting this waste to landfills produces leachate, which causes harmful heavy metal pollution. In this study, seven soil sampling stations were established at Shiraz Engineering Landfill, with five additional stations near residential areas. Sampling occurred during low and high rainfall seasons. The Aqua Regia method determined heavy metal concentrations. The share of these heavy metals in landfill soil was as follows: 42.20% for Ni, 29.06% for Cr, 17.42% for Cu, 7.24% for Co, 3.95% for As, and only 0.13% for Cd metal. The average pollution load index in the analyzed soils was 2.58 and it showed the High level of pollution of these soils. The ecological risk index for residential areas and most landfill locations (excluding the recycling plant) fell within the low pollution category. The results of the non-carcinogenic risk assessment indicated that the hazard index (HI) for all heavy metals in the soil samples of the study area was 0.3933 for children and 0.0854 for adults. These values suggest that workers at the landfill site and children and adults residing near the site are not exposed to short-term risks associated with heavy metals. The chronic and long-term carcinogenic risk (TCR) for the studied heavy metals in the landfill soil exceeded the threshold of 1×10-4 for both adults and children, indicating an unacceptable and dangerous risk to human health. For soil samples from residential areas, the TCR value for children was 1.30×10-4, indicating the risk of carcinogenesis specifically for children.
Towards Early Diagnosis and Screening of Alzheimer’s Disease Using Frequency Locked Whispering Gallery Mode Microtoroid Biosensors
Authors: Gin Adley , Nguyen Phuong-Diem , Serrano Geidy , Alexander Gene , Su Judith
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive form of dementia affecting almost 55 million people worldwide. It is characterized by the abnormal deposition of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles within the brain, leading to a pathological cascade of neuron degeneration and death as well as memory loss and cognitive decline. Amyloid beta (Aβ) is an AD biomarker present in cerebrospinal fluid and blood serum and correlates with the presence of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. Measuring the levels of Aβ can help with early diagnosis of AD, which is key for studying novel AD drugs and delaying the symptoms of dementia. However, this goal is difficult to achieve due to the low levels of AD biomarkers in biofluids. Here we demonstrate for the first time the use of FLOWER (frequency locked optical whispering evanescent resonator) for quantifying the levels of post-mortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ42 in clinicopathologically classified control, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and AD participants. FLOWER is capable of measuring CSF Aβ42 (area under curve, AUC = 0.92) with higher diagnostic performance than standard ELISA (AUC = 0.82) and was also able to distinguish between control and MCI samples. Our results demonstrate the capability of FLOWER for screening CSF samples for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s pathology.
The Impact of Emotional Valence on the Spatial Scope of Selective Attention and the Mediating Role of Psychological Distress
Authors: Chaisilprungraung Thitaporn , Kaewbuapan Poopa , Intrachooto Singh , Pongsuwan Sarigga , Itthipuripat Sirawaj
Published: May 2024

The brain’s ability to focus on behaviorally relevant sensory inputs (i.e., targets) while ignoring behaviorally irrelevant inputs (i.e., distractors) is key to speedy and efficient sensory information processing. Yet, the specific roles of emotional valence in modulating selective attention and the key factors that mediate this interaction remain underexplored. The current study investigated how positive and negative emotions modulated the spatial scope of visual selective attention. To do this, we employed a modified Eriksen Flanker task, where face stimuli with different emotional valences (i.e., happy, angry, and neutral faces) were used as spatial cues that directed participants' attention to a target surrounded by distractors. We demonstrated that the degree of flanker interference was modulated by the valence of the face cue. Happy faces triggered increased performance susceptibility to surrounding distractors, suggesting a broadening of the spatial scope of visual attention. In contrast, angry faces decreased this susceptibility, indicating a narrowing of attentional focus. Importantly, the magnitude of attention modulation depended on the subjective rating of psychological distress, measured via the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale. Particularly, participants with high levels of stress or depression exhibited weaker modulation in response to emotional cues. A follow-up experiment demonstrated that the temporal uncertainty between the cue and target played a crucial role in mediating this effect. Together, our findings offer novel behavioral correlates for emotion-driven changes in the spatial scope of visual selective attention that could be used to index psychological distress across individuals. Moreover, the impact of emotion on selective attention is mediated by temporal expectation.
Orchiectomy as an alternative to injectable therapies as a tool to improve access to new generation systemic treatments for Advanced Prostate Cancer in Developing Countries
Authors: Monteiro Fernando , Sasse Andre , Araujo Denizar , McKay Rana , Trindade Karine da , Soares Andrey , Alves Joao , Valverde Douglas , Bastos Diogo , James Nicholas , Herchenhorn Daniel
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE: The Brazilian Public Health System (BPHS) hosts approximately 71,730 patients with prostate cancer annually for whom androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the is the primary treatment for advanced hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (aHSPC) patients. Androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) are not accessible through the BPHS. Using the BPHS as a model, this study assessed the long-term economic impact of surgical versus medical castration in aHSPC treatment to strategize cost reduction and the incorporation of the ARPI in developing countries.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data from aHSPC patients (i.e., TxN1M0 ineligible for local treatment or TxNxM1)in the BPHS database were analyzed from 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2021 using the TECHTRIALS artificial intelligence platform. The main outcomes were quantitative and descriptive analyses as well as a cost analysis of surgical versus chemical castration.
RESULTS: Of the 274,519 aHSPC patients who received active treatment during the 11-year study period, 90% (246,683) underwent chemical castration, and 10% (27,836) underwent BSO. The median duration of chemical castration was 28 months. The BPHS spent an estimated total of US$ 665,552,091.40 on chemical castration and US$ 5,939,348.47 on BSO. The costs per patient were US$ 2,698 and US$ 213.37 for chemical castration and BSO, respectively. Hypothetically, if all aHSPC patients had undergone BSO, the total direct cost for the BPHS would have been US$ 42,774,832.20, saving US$ 622,777,259.20 over 11 years.
Conclusions: Based on this extensive financial analysis of data from the world's largest public health system database, BSO appears to be a valuable alternative to chemical castration for treating aHSPC. In resource-limited environments, the cost savings from using BSO may allow access to drugs that will improve survival, such as ARPIs.
Integrative Multi-Omics Analysis Unravels the Host Response Landscape and Reveals a Serum Protein Panel for Early Prognosis Prediction for ARDS
Authors: Lin Mengna , Xu Feixiang , Sun Jian , Song Jianfeng , Shen Yao , Lu Su , Ding Hailin , Lan Lulu , Chen Chen , Ma Wen , Wu Xueling , Song Zhenju , Wang Weibing
Published: May 2024

Background
Multidimensional biological mechanisms underpinning Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) continue to be elucidated, and novel early biomarkers for ARDS prognosis remain to be identified.
Methods
We conducted a multicenter observational study, profiling the 4D-DIA proteomics and global metabolomics of serum samples collected from patients at the initial stage of ARDS, alongside samples from both disease control (DC) and healthy control (HC) groups. 28-day prognosis biomarkers of ARDS were screened by the LASSO method, fold change, and Boruta algorithm in the discovery cohort. We verified the serum candidate biomarkers by Parallel Reaction Monitoring (PRM) targeted Mass Spectrometry (MS) on an external validation cohort. Machine learning models were applied to explore the biomarker panel of ARDS prognosis.
Results
In the discovery cohort, comprising 130 adult ARDS patients (mean age 72.5, 74.6% male), 33 disease controls, and 33 healthy controls, the distinct proteomic and metabolic signatures can differentiate ARDS from both control groups. Pathway analysis identified the upregulated sphingolipid signaling pathway as a key contributor to the pathological mechanisms underlying ARDS. Within this pathway, MAP2K1 emerged as the hub protein, facilitating interactions with various biological functions. Additionally, the metabolite sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) was found to be closely associated with ARDS and its prognosis. Our research further highlights essential pathways driving deceased ARDS, such as the downregulation of hematopoietic cell lineage and calcium signaling pathways, contrasted with the upregulation of the unfolded protein response and glycolysis. In which, GAPDH and ENO1, the critical enzymes in glycolysis, showed the largest interaction degree in protein-protein interaction network of ARDS. In the discovery cohort, a panel of 36 proteins was identified as candidate biomarkers, with 8 proteins (VCAM1, LDHB, MSN, FLG2, TAGLN2, LMNA, MBL2, and LBP) demonstrating significant consistency in an independent validation cohort of 183 patients (mean age 72.6 years, 73.2% male), as confirmed by PRM assay. The protein-based model exhibited superior predictive accuracy over the clinical model in both the discovery cohort (AUC: 0.893 vs. 0.784; Delong test, P < 0.001) and the validation cohort (AUC: 0.802 vs. 0.738; Delong test, P = 0.008).
Interpretation
Our multi-omics study demonstrated the potential biological mechanism and therapy targets in ARDS. This study unveiled several novel predictive biomarkers and established a validated prediction model for the poor prognosis of ARDS, which can provide clues relevant to the prognosis of individuals with ARDS.
Study on Leukapheresis of Hyperleukocyte Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Pan Ruiyang , Xu Anjie , Liu Li , Wu Jinxian , Li Xinqi , Chen Guopeng , Li Ruihang , Yin Wanyue , Liu Dandan , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhou Fuling
Published: May 2024

Respiratory failure, intracranial hemorrhage and infection were more common in hyperleukocyte acute myeloid leukemia patients than in non-hyperleukocyte leukemia patients. Compared with non-apheresis treatment, the white blood cells decreased significantly and the infection rate decreased after apheresis treatment. However, the treatment time of leukapheresis in patients with hyperleukocyte leukemia is very long, while the damage to cells is also large. In this study, a retrospective analysis was conducted on hyperleukocyte acute myeloid leukemia patients with hyperleukocytosis during induction. Centrifugation was performed at different rotational speeds and centrifugation times to observe whether there were changes in the number and morphology of peripheral blood cells in healthy people and patients with hyperleukocyte leukemia. The centrifugation of normal cells and hyperleukocyte was simulated in vitro, so as to explore optimal centrifugation parameters in the treatment of leukapheresis. The cells obtained by optimal centrifugation parameters were cryopreserved and animal models were established. Through the research, it is found that when the rotational speed is increased below 6000rpm, the damage to normal blood cells and blood cells in patients with hyperleukocyte leukemia is small. When the rotational speed is greater than 6000rpm, the platelets will be damaged. The cells obtained under optimal centrifugation parameters can be successfully cryopreserved and modeled in leukemia animals.
An Epidemiological Look into Disparities in Merkel Cell Carcinoma Hospitalizations in the United States
Authors: Terrell Maci , Dongarwar Deepa , Rashid Raushan , Hamisu Salihu , Orengo Ida
Published: May 2024

Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare and aggressive cutaneous carcinoma with a propensity for metastasis and death. Our study describes the prevalence, sociodemographics and inpatient mortality of Merkel Cell Carcinoma related hospitalizations in the United States from 2011 through 2020. We conducted an observational study using the Nationwide Inpatient sample database, which captures a 20% sample of all hospitalizations in the United States. We utilized the International Classification of Disease Clinical Modification codes from the ninth and tenth revision to identify Merkel Cell Carcinoma and demographic factors. There was a total of 28,809 cases of Merkel Cell Carcinoma in the United States from 2011 to 2020. Merkel Cell Carcinoma was associated with white race (11.4 per 100,000) and disposition of death (26.8 per 100,000). It was most prevalent in the highest quartile income (12.5 per 100,000) and Medicare as primary payer (13.0 per 100,000). Hospitalization was lowest in nonwhite races, particularly NH-Blacks and NH-Others. Inpatient mortality was significantly associated with non-Hispanic other (odds ratio 2.18, 95% confidence interval = 1.38–3.45) and self-pay patients (odds ratio = 2.93, 95% confidence interval 1.84–4.67).This study contributes to reported socio-demographic factors related to Merkel Cell Carcinomas and brings awareness to factors associated with increased hospitalization and inpatient mortality.
A physical emulation of somatosensory cortex as a
Neuromorphic Twin for neural prostheses
Authors: Ramirez Hector , Donati Elisa , Behrens Wolfger von der , Indiveri Giacomo , Valle Giacomo , ̈ıfoudine Natacha Vanattou-Sa
Published: May 2024

Loss of tactile feedback in patients with paralysis or limb loss prevents the integration of sensory-motor signals, limiting dexterous motor control. Recent advances in the neurostimulation of the human somatosensory cortex offer the possibility of restoring touch in these patients. Brain-computer interfaces and bidirectional prostheses with implantable electrodes can restore feedback, improving control, awareness, and quality of life. However, current electrical stimulation methods lack the fidelity to consistently and reliably reproduce natural sensations, and the impact of this stimulation on the somatosensory cortex remains unclear. Here we propose to use a mixed-signal neuromorphic processing system to construct a “neuromorphic twin” of the somatosensory cortex, following a bottom-up approach for emulating and reproducing its intricate dynamics. We use the analog properties of electronic neuron and synapse circuits to faithfully replicate neural and synaptic response properties. To reproduce effects at the network level, we configure the neuromorphic processor to implement the recurrent connectivity patterns of the somatosensory cortex among different populations of excitatory and inhibitory silicon neurons. Our findings demonstrate the twin’s ability to reproduce the spatiotemporal firing patterns of the native neuronal population receiving afferent fiber inputs, resulting in a highly bio-realistic model that can be used to investigate the effect of different stimulation patterns. This physical emulation of the cortical circuits represents therefore an additional tool to understand and predict the somatosensory cortex behavior under neurostimulation. Using this system, neurostimulation patterns can be optimized to produce more natural sensations and ultimately improve the quality of restored feedback, leading to a better quality of life for affected patients.
An artificial intelligence-derived metabolic network predicts psychosis in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Nguyen Nha , Gomar Jesus , Truong Jack , Barbero Janos , Do Patrick , Rommal Andrea , Oh Alice , Eidelberg David , Koppel Jeremy , Vo An
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer’s Disease psychosis (AD + P) is characterized by accelerated cognitive decline and tau pathology. Through exploring the AD + P network (ADPN), the aim is to predict psychosis in AD and understand its mechanisms. Utilizing FDG PET scans from ADNI control and AD groups, we employed a convolutional neural network to identify and validate the ADPN. We analyzed network progression, clinical correlations, and psychosis prediction using expression scores, and network organization using graph theory. The ADPN accurately distinguishes AD + P from controls (97%), with increasing scores correlating with cognitive decline. ADPN-based approach predicts psychosis with 77% accuracy and identifies specific brain regions and connections associated with psychosis. Deep learning identified ADPN, linked to cognitive and functional decline. The increased metabolic connectivity between motor and language/social cognition regions in AD + P may drive delusions and agitated behavior. ADPN holds promise as a biomarker for AD + P, aiding in treatment development and patient stratification.
Assessing the Conformity of Biophilic Design to Green Building Rating Systems for Human Well-being
Authors: Ebrahiem Samia , Yassein Ghada
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between certified green buildings and biophilic design principles, aiming to assess how biophilic design aligns with Green Building Rating Tools (GBRTs). To achieve this, three widely used GBRTs (LEED, BREEAM, and LBC) are compared to the WELL Building Standard, which has best adopted biophilic design patterns. The research team conducted a thorough review of available crosswalks and alignment documents, using WELL as a benchmark against the other three GBRTs. They identified overlapping equivalency levels of the seven concepts of WELL and their related 100 features, assigning weighted scores accordingly. The findings reveal both opportunities and challenges in the alignment between WELL and other GBRTs. While partial equivalency is possible, achieving full compliance is unlikely due to the extensive scientific basis of WELL features requiring further testing and analysis. LEED stands out with the largest share of equivalent features, covering 59% of the total, indicating full compliance, while BREEAM scored 36% for equivalent features. However, LBC performed differently, with only 8% of features deemed equivalent due to its reliance on actual performance rather than prescriptive measures observed in LEED and BREEAM. This article offers valuable insights for architects, designers, and policymakers in fostering integrated and sustainable built environments. It holds significant relevance due to its potential to uncover unexplored territory, promising to reshape discourse on green building certifications and their impact on human well-being and environmental sustainability.