bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrasexual Competition may be Greater between Unrelated Women than Men
Authors: Benenson Joyce F. , Markovits Henry
Published: August 2022

Human males are considered to be more competitive than females. However, females must also compete for resources necessary for their own and their offsprings’ survival. Since females use more indirect forms of competition than males, comparing observable forms of competition may be misleading. One critical driver of competition is resource asymmetry. Since competition occurs primarily within sex, reactions to resource asymmetry with same-sex peers should provide an important measure of competitiveness. We asked 596 participants, 25 to 45 years of age with at least one child from three different countries to evaluate how most same-sex individuals would react to a target individual who had a valuable resource that the same-sex individuals did not have. Half the participants evaluated reactions to same-sex targets, while the other half evaluated reactions to other-sex targets. Participants reported that women would react more negatively than men to resource asymmetry with same-sex targets, but not other-sex targets. These results suggest that women can be even more competitive than men.
Carbon dioxide reduction by photosynthesis undetectable even during phytoplankton blooms in two lakes
Authors: Münzner Karla , Langenheder Silke , Weyhenmeyer Gesa A. , Csitári Bianka , Lindström Eva S.
Published: August 2022

Lakes located in the boreal region are generally supersaturated with carbon dioxide (CO2), which emerges from inflowing inorganic carbon from the surrounding watershed and from mineralization of allochthonous organic carbon. While these CO2 sources gained a lot of attention, processes that reduce the amount of CO2 have been less studied. We therefore examined the CO2 reduction capacity during times of phytoplankton blooms. We investigated partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) at times of blooms dominated by cyanobacteria (lake Erken, Sweden) or dominated by the nuisance alga Gonyostomum semen (lake Erssjön, Sweden) during two years. Our results showed that pCO2 and phytoplankton densities remained unrelated in the two lakes even during blooms. We suggest that physical factors, such as wind-induced water column mixing and import of inorganic carbon via inflowing waters suppressed the phytoplankton signal on pCO2. These results advance our understanding of carbon cycling in lakes and highlight the importance of detailed lake studies for more precise estimates of local, regional and global carbon budgets.
Efficacy analysis of femoral neck system compared to 3 cannulated screws in the treatment of femoral neck fractures
Authors: Wang Zhaofu , Zhu Runjiu , Luo Xiaohai , Xiong Xianghua , Wu Ning , Ma Xiaolin , Li Cunhua , Ma Feng
Published: August 2022

Purpose
Through the comparative study of femoral neck system (FNS) and 3 cannulated screws (3CS) treatment of femoral neck fracture to analyze the actual clinical efficacy of FNS.
Methods
A total of 432 patients with femoral neck fractures treated between September 2019 and September 2021 were selected for the study. According to different surgical methods, they were divided into FNS group and 3CS group. The clinical data of the study included intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, duration of surgery, perioperative blood transfusion, postoperative hemoglobin drop, postoperative decreased albumin, and early postoperative complications (lower limb thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary infection, urinary tract infection), length of stay, Harris score, and mortality. The above data were statistically analyzed by SPSS 26.0.
Results
A total of 96 patients were included, followed for 5–10 months, with a mean follow-up of 6.1 months, including 67 in the FNS group and 29 in the 3CS group. The mean age of the FNS group and 3CS group was 58.54 ± 13.85 years and 50.62 ± 18.59 years, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant(P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in gender, laterality, low-energy injury, fracture type, number of underlying diseases, and injury time between FNS and 3CS groups. The duration of surgery the FNS group and the 3CS group were 85.0(50.0) and 72.5(55.5)(min), respectively, the postoperative hemoglobin drop were 15.35 ± 9.60 and 12.05 ± 9.38 (g/L), and the postoperative decreased albumin were 5.97 ± 3.76, 4.81 ± 2.53 (g/L), and the length of stay was 6.0 (3.0), 6.5 (9.0) (d), and there was no significant difference in the above four indicators (P > 0.05). intraoperative blood loss in FNS group and 3CS group were 100(100) and 35(81)(ml) (P < 0.05), respectively, and the intraoperative fluoroscopy times was 8.34 ± 2.87 and 18.66 ± 2.72 (P < 0.001). statistical difference. The average Harris scores of patients in the FNS group at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation were: 47.49 ± 12.18, 67.68 ± 14.51, 84.81 ± 16.72, and the mean Harris scores of patients in the 3CS group at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation were: 55.82 ± 8.86, 69.45 ± 6.92, 86.00 ± 10.78, Harris score was statistically significant at 1 month after operation, and the score in 3CS group was higher (P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in Harris score between the two groups at 3 months and 6 months after operation (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Both FNS and 3CS have the advantages of minimally invasive surgery, short hospital stay, and FNS and 3CS have similar curative effects at the 6-month follow-up. In addition, FNS can significantly reduce the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy, which is a feasible method for the treatment of femoral neck fractures.
Flower strips as a carbon sequestration measure in temperate croplands
Authors: Harbo Laura Sofie , Schulz Gesa , Heinemann Henrike , Dechow Rene , Poeplau Chistopher
Published: August 2022

Purpose:Flower strips have been shown to increase insect biodiversity and improve agricultural yields through increased pollination and pest predation. Less is known about their potential to increase soil organic carbon (SOC). We aimed to investigate the biomass production and SOC sequestration potential of flower strips as a sustainable management option of temperate agricultural soils.Methods:23 flower strips across varying soil types and climatic regions in Germany were sampled for aboveground and belowground peak biomass in order to estimate the annual carbon input to the soil. Those were used as 23 scenarios to model the potential SOC sequestration of the flower strips compared to a business-as-usual scenario for 1533 sites of the German Agricultural Soil Inventory using the RothC model.Results:On average, flower strips sequestered 0.48 +/- 0.36 Mg C ha-1 year-1 in the initial 20-year period after establishment. Converting 1 % of the total German cropland area into flower strips would thus lead to a mitigation of 0.24 Tg CO2 year-1, which equals 0.4 % of current agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in Germany. We found a negative correlation between C sequestration rate and the number of plant species in the flower strips, mainly related to grasses outcompeting herbaceous species.Conclusion:Flower strips are one overlooked option for increasing SOC stocks of croplands that has multiple benefits for agro-ecosystems. However, within a flower strip it might not be possible to maximise both plant biodiversity and SOC sequestration.
Anatomical and biochemical responses to oxidative stress in shoots of Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex Wendl during the in vitro-ex vitro transition
Authors: garcia yudith yanet , Barrera Gloria Patricia , Freire Marisol , Barbón Raúl , Torres Sinesio
Published: August 2022

Hyperhydricity can affect the development of plant morphology. A better understanding of the anatomical and physiological changes of hyperhydric plants is needed to predict and control the occurrence of hyperhydryc conditions. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the role of oxidative stress in hyperhydricity. To this end, the anatomical, physiological and biochemical responses to oxidative stress in shoots of Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex Wendl were compared during the in vitro-ex vitro transition. For this propose, we used shoots grown in two different culture systems: liquid static culture medium and temporary immersion system. Our results showed that hyperhydricity was associated with oxidative stress in the shoots. In hyperhydric shoots chlorophyll content decreased when cultured in liquid static culture medium. Moreover, hydrogen peroxide content and malondialdehyde, as well as the activities of catalase and enzymes of ascorbate-glutathione cycle (ascorbate peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase and dehydroascorbate reductase) were increased in these shoots. On the other hand, scanning electron microscopy showed that the leaves of hyperhydric shoots exhibited anatomical changes in the stomata of the plants, whereas the leaves of normal shoots showed normal structural development. Finally, normal shoots showed high survival rate and allowed better adaptation of the plantlets in the greenhouse.
Determining Motor Failure Using Power Output and Wavelength
Authors: Nasajpour-Esfahani Navid , Fahad Fahad
Published: August 2022

Industrial motors are commonly used in significant industrial buildings. When a motor fails during operation, it could cause a big loss for companies. Different methods are being used to determine motor failure before it occurs. For example, companies use temperature stickers to read the motor's temperature, which would determine the end of motor’s life. A method that we will use to predict motor failure is using Frequency Wave to Predict Motor Failure. We employ approximately 400 motors with different Horsepower (2–5 HP). A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is used to control the speed of each motor in the facility. The main idea for this research is to predict motor failure before it occurs by using an oscilloscope to determine abnormal frequency waves. The wave tests conducted are Voltage Frequency Waves, Resistance Frequency Waves, and Current Frequency Waves. Although other factors could affect the data, multiple motors will be used, and the average will be taken for the final data results. Examples of factors that could affect the data are the drive pulleys, conveyor belts (type of belt), bearings, and the amount of load (packages) applied on the conveyor belts.
Simvastatin affects EMT and stemness phenotype of triple negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Fytsilis Vaios D. , Manou Dimitra , Theocharis Achilleas D. , Skandalis Spyros S. , Vynios Demitrios
Published: August 2022

IntroductionTriple negative breast cancer is characterized by rapid growth and dissemination. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition facilitates tumor progression and cellular stemness status. Statins are affordable medicines with traditional action as inhibitors of the cholesterol synthesis pathway, as well as of protein prenylation, attributing a pleiotropic role in cellular behavior and in anti-tumor treatment. Methods & ResultsThe effect of simvastatin on the aggressive characteristics of the Hs578T TNBC cell line was examined, in doses corresponding to 85%, 70% and 50% of cellular viability. Our results indicate that the treatment near to the IC50 of simvastatin could attenuate the aggressive features of Hs578T cells. On the other hand, at concentrations below IC50 simvastatin exerted a totally different effect since it enhanced cellular migration and increased the expression of stem cell and EMT markers. Simvastatin also seems to exert a suppressive effect on TNBC-specific miRNA expression in a dose-independent manner.ConclusionsSimvastatin at high dose (IC50) exhibits anti-cancer effect, but at low dose (IC15) exerts a tumor-promoting role on Hs578T cells. Concerns may arise for the tumor drug effect in patients and especially for tumor cells where drug bioavailability could be low, as the pharmacological response may be different from the expected.
Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Helicovera zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Puerto Rico: phenology of flight, analysis of hybrid presence, and insecticide performance in field crops
Authors: Flores-Rivera X. L. , Paula-Moraes S.V. , Johnson J. W. , Jack C. , Perera O. P.
Published: August 2022

The genus Helicoverpa (Hardwick) includes several species of agricultural pests around the world. The polyphagous pest Helicoverpa armigera reported in several countries in South America in 2013, was reported in Puerto Rico in 2014. However, information about the impact of this invasive species on field crops is still needed. The objective of this study was to document the occurrence of H. armigera and H. zea in corn, soybean, and sunflower in the southern municipalities of Puerto Rico. Year-round pheromone trapping of adult males combined with larval sampling was conducted from 2018-2021. The abundance of moths detected in the trapping indicated an increase in the population from October to March, and Juana Diaz had a high occurrence of Helicoverpa spp. than Salinas. The proportion of H. armigera/H. zea and detection of congeneric hybrids were assessed based on genital morphology and DNA analysis. Neither H. armigera nor expected hybrids between H. zea and H. armigera were detected in the present study. The susceptibility of H. zea populations to the insecticides Spinetoram, Emamectin benzoate, Chlorantraniliprole, and Esfenvalerate was assessed, and an overall significant effect of insecticide susceptibility was detected. Chlorantraniliprole and Emamectin benzoate had the highest performance. These results of this study, performed in one of the largest winter nursery breeding operations in the United States, contribute to the IPM/IPM programs to Helicoverpa spp. located in the southern municipalities of Puerto Rico. In addition, and validate information to be considered in mitigation plans, in the scenario of an invasion of H. armigera in the continental U.S.
Periodic Plane-Wave Electronic Structure Calculations on Quantum Computers
Authors: Song Duo , Bauman Nicholas , Prawiroatmodjo Guen , Peng Bo , Granade Casandra , Rosso Kevin , Low Guang Hao , Roetteler Martin , Kowalski Karol , Bylaska Eric
Published: August 2022

A procedure for defining virtual spaces, and the periodic one-electron and two-electron integrals, for plane-wave second quantized Hamiltonians has been developed and demonstrated using full configuration interaction (FCI) simulations and variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) circuits on Quantinuum's ion trap quantum computers accessed through Microsoft's Azure Quantum service. This work is an extension to periodic systems of a new class of algorithms in which the virtual spaces were generated by optimizing orbitals from small pairwise CI Hamiltonians, which we term as correlation optimized virtual orbitals with the abbreviation COVOs. In this extension, the integration of the first Brillouin zone is automatically incorporated into the two-electron integrals. With these procedures we have been able to derive virtual spaces, containing only a few orbitals, that were able to capture a significant amount of correlation. The focus in this manuscript is on comparing the simulations of small molecules calculated with plane-wave basis sets with large periodic unit cells at the Γ-point, including images, to results for plane-wave basis sets with aperiodic unit cells. The results for this approach were promising as we were able to obtain good agreement between periodic and aperiodic results for an LiH molecule. Simulations performed on the Quantinuum H1-1 quantum computer were able to produce surprisingly good energies, reproducing the FCI values for the 1 COVO Hamiltonian to within 11 milliHartree (6.9 kcal/mol), when corrected for noise.
A Study on Atypical Kashin-Beck Disease---an Endemic Ankle Arthritis
Authors: Qi Fang , Cui Si-Lu , Zang Bing , Li Hao-Nan , Jiao Zhe , Yu Jun
Published: August 2022

Background: To study the epidemiological characteristics of atypical Kashin-Beck disease cases without characteristic hand lesions such as interphalangeal joint enlargement and brachydactyly and the characteristics of ankle joint lesions.Methods: According to monitoring data, 4 types of regions (including none, mild, moderate and high Kashin-Beck disease endemic areas) in Heilong jiang and Jilin provinces were selected. All local residents over 40 years old were undergone clinical examanation and X-ray images of hands and feet.Kashin-Beck disease was diagnosed in accordance with the "Kashin-Beck disease diagnosis" standard (WS / T 207–2010) for the diagnosis of Kashin-Beck disease. Osteoarthritis was diagnosed in accordance with the American College of Rheumatology 1995 diagnostic criteria.Results: 119 residents over 40 years old were surveyed in a natural village in the non-endemic area. 1,190 residents over 40 years old were surveyed in 38 endemic KBD areas.A total of 710 patients with Kashin-Beck Disease were detected, including 245 patients with grade I, 175 patients with grade II, 25 patients with grade III, and 265 atypical patients. Among all investigated patients , 92.0% (653/710) had ankle joint changes, and it was 80.0% (196/245) in grade I patients and 95.4% (167/175) in grade Ⅱ. Varying degrees of ankle joint changes were found in both grade III and atypical patients. The grade of Kashin-Beck disease was correlated with the degree of ankle joint change (P<0.001), and the correlation coefficient rs=0.376. Atypical Kashin-Beck disease patients in mild and severe endemic area of Kashin-Beck Disease were younger than those with typical Kashin-Beck disease. Conclusions: There is a correlation between the degree of ankle joint change and the grade of Kashin-Beck disease. The higher the grade of Kashin-Beck disease, the more serious the change of the ankle joint.
Herpud1 deficiency alleviates homocysteine-induced aortic valve calcification
Authors: Xie Wenqing , Shan Yue , Wu Zhuonan , Liu Nan , Yang Jinjin , Zhang Hanlin , Sun Shiming , Chi Jufang , Feng Weizhong , Lin Hui , Guo Hangyuan
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the role and therapeutic value of homocysteine (hcy)-inducible endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) protein with ubiquitin like domain 1 (Herpud1) in hcy-induced calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). Background: The morbidity and mortality rates of calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) remain high while treatment options are limited.Methods: In vivo , we use the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and Herpud1 double knockout (LDLR-/-/Herpud1-/-) mice assessment of aortic valve calcification lesions, ERS activation, autophagy, and osteogenic differentiation of aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs). We used siRNA to knock down Herpud1 in cultured Primary AVICs were isolated from mice to further validate our findings. Results: Herpud1 was highly expressed in calcified human and mouse aortic valves as well as primary aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs). Herpud1 deficiency inhibited hcy-induced CAVD in vitro and in vivo. Herpud1 silencing activated cell autophagy, which subsequently inhibited hcy-induced osteogenic differentiation of AVICs. Hcy increased Herpud1 expression through the ERS pathway and promoted CAVD progression. ERS inhibitor 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA) significantly attenuated aortic valve calcification in high methionine diet–fed low-density lipoprotein receptor-/- (LDLR-/-) mice by suppressing ERS and subsequent Herpud1 biosynthesis. Conclusions: These findings identify a previously unknown mechanism of Herpud1 upregulation in CAVD progression, suggesting that Herpud1 silencing or inhibition is a viable therapeutic strategy for arresting CAVD progression.
Knitted Structural Design of MXene/Cu2O Based Strain Sensor for Smart Wear
Authors: Cao Yuan-Ming , Li Yi-Fei , Zhang Ke-Qin , Zhuo Ming-Peng , Zhai Wang-Yi , Zheng Mi , Zheng Min , Wang Zuo-Shan , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: August 2022

Electronic textiles present an enticing prospect for personal health assessment and physical monitoring, owing to their strong stretchability, highly flexibility, mechanical robustness and high capacity in sensing small deformations in human motions. Herein, a multifunctional robust flexible knitting-shaped strain sensor based on the functional heterostructure composing with the conductive MXene (Ti3C2Tx) nanosheet and the antimicrobial Cu2O nanoparticles is prepared via a solution-processable dip-dry coating approach. The textile-based strain sensor exhibits a highly stable and immediate response over a wide range, which shows great advantages in detecting and monitoring human activities, such as smiling, swallowing, and wrist/finger/joint bending. Significantly, these prepared strain sensors present a promising application in smart wear, which was typically employed as the smart sensing gloves in barrier-free communication for hearing-impaired people. Notably, the strain sensor displays a reliable antibacterial efficiency of ∼99.1% for Escherichia coli and an outstanding breathability as high as 190 mm/s, benefiting for their application in smart wear and artificial intelligence futures.
Dermatology residents as educators: A qualitative study of identity formation
Authors: Alwazzan lulu , Alharithy Ruaa , Alotaibi Hind , Kattan Thuraya , Alnasser Monira , Alnojaidi Taif
Published: August 2022

Background
One of the many identities a physician comes to form during their career is their identity as an educator. Exploring formation of this identity may enrich our understanding of how physicians make decisions related to their roles as educators, their behaviors, and how this ultimately influences the educational environment. It is the aim of this study to investigate educator identity formation of dermatology residents while early in their careers.
Methods
Drawing on a social constructionist paradigm, we examined longitudinal data over a 12-month period using dermatology residents' written reflections from their professional portfolios and semi-structured interviews. We collected this data as we progressed through and beyond a 4-month professional development program designed to encourage residents’ growth as educators. Residents in their second, third, or final year of residency programs located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia took part in this study. Qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.
Results
60 written reflections and 20 semi-structured interviews were analyzed. The data is categorized into content themes and process-themes. Content themes included definition of education, the process of education, and professional development. Process-themes included the various identities being formed. Participants defined education as an individual act, interpersonal activity, and an organizational undertaking, with many believing that residency programs should prepare residents for their educator roles. Participants also described new found leadership ambitions of creating new dermatology fellowship programs as a result of taking part in the Resident-as-Educator program.
Conclusions
Our study provides insights on the dynamic formation of educator identities amongst dermatology residents. Investment in developing residents as educators through professional development programs may instigate transformational change on the individual physician level and profession’s level.
Crystal morphology prediction of CL-20 and 1,4-DNI co-crystal at different temperatures
Authors: Li Xing , Song Liang , Zhao Ying , Ju Xue-Hai
Published: August 2022

Using the attachment energy (AE) model and molecular dynamics (MD) methods, the morphologies of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) and 1,4-dinitroimidazole (1,4-DNI) co-crystal under vacuum or solvent at different temperatures were predicted. The CL-20/1,4-DNI co-crystal has six important growth crystal planes: (002), (011), (101), (11‒1), (110), (111). The area of (002), (101), and (011) planes account for a relatively large proportion, which are important crystal planes that affect the crystal morphology. At the same time, by calculating the interaction energy between the solvent and the crystal plane and the attachment energies under the influence of the solvent at 298 K, 320 K, 340 K, 360 K and 380 K were predicted. The crystal habits at different temperatures were simulated. The simulation results showed that the crystal plane attachment energy of CL-20 and 1,4-DNI co-crystal increases with the increase of temperature, indicating that the increase of temperature is conducive to the growth of crystal planes. The aspect ratio decreases with the increase of temperature and the morphology of cocrystal becomes more spherical. The theoretical predictions are in good agreement with the experiment. The simulation results can provide guidance for the crystallization of CL-20/1,4-DNI to obtain a nearly spherical crystal morphology.
A simple nomogram for assessing COVID-19 in-hospital mortality in adults with diabetes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Liu Qinyu , Zeng Qingya , Luo Yinghua , Wen Junping , Chen Gang
Published: August 2022

Background: We aimed to develop a simple nomogram and online calculator for predicting the risk of COVID-19-related mortality in patients with diabetes, and to compare the practicality and cost-effectiveness of the nomogram with previous prediction models.Methods: We did a retrospective study in hospitals designated for 127 patients with diabetes hospitalized for COVID-19 in Tehran. Adult patients with previous diabetes status or compliance with diabetes criteria on admission hospitalized for COVID-19 were enrolled. Based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method and multivariable logistic regression computed, a nomogram was developed using predictors upon admission. C-statistics were validated internally in the cohort by bootstrap and in subtypes analysis. The accuracy and cost-effectiveness between the nomogram and previous models were compared through C-statistics.Results: From February 29 to July 20, 2020, 127 patients were eligible for inclusion in the cohort, of which 29 died for COVID-19. Loss of consciousness, pulse, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and albumin were independent risk factors for COVID-19 mortality in diabetes. The nomogram and the free online calculator had a high C-statistic of 0.900 (0.842-0.958) for predicting mortality in diabetes with COVID-19, which performed better discrimination and clinical usefulness than previous models. C-statistic values were stable in internal validation and different subtypes.Conclusions: The nomogram and online calculator were used by emergency physicians and vaccine prevention doctors to identify diabetes with high COVID-19 mortality, which performed better than previous models. These patients might benefit from intensive monitoring, early preventive measures and vaccination.
Study on the mechanism of allergic rhinitis based on the expression of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, and Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 axis balance
Authors: Yu Yafang , Yan Jianwen
Published: August 2022

Background: The pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis is not completely clear, while it is clear that various immune cells and cytokines play an essential role in its occurrence and development.Aim: To investigate the effect of exogenous interleukin-10 on the expression of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, and Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 axis balance in the nasal mucosa of rats with allergic rhinitis.Method: In this study, 48 female SPF SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: blank control group, AR group, and IL-10 intervention group. The allergic rhinitis model was established in the AR group and IL-10 group. The rats in the control group were treated with normal saline; the rats in the AR group were given 20 μ L of saline containing 50 μ g of OVA every day. The rats in the IL-10 intervention group were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mL of 40 pg/kg IL-10 and provided with OVA. The IL-10 intervention group was composed of mice with AR that received IL-10. The behavior of nasal allergic symptoms (such as nasal itching, sneezing, and runny nose) and the HE staining of nasal mucosa were observed. The levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVAs IgE in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of Treg and Th17 cells in serum were detected by flow cytometry. The protein levels of TGF- β, IL-10, and IL-17 in nasal mucosa were detected by the Western-blot method.Results: The scores of snots, nasal itching, and sneezing in the AR group were significantly higher than those in the control group, while the scores of the above symptoms in the IL-10 intervention group were lower than those in the AR group. The levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVAs IgE in serum and the protein levels of IL-10 and IL-17 in the nasal mucosa in the AR group were higher than those in the blank control group. Meanwhile, the levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVAs IgE in serum and IL-10 and IL-17 protein in the nasal mucosa in the IL-10 group were lower than those in the AR group.Conclusion: IL-10 could improve the allergy of AR rats by affecting the expression of FIB, PCT, and hs-CRP, as well as the balance of the Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 axis in the nasal mucosa of AR rats.
Renal clearable bone-targeted contrast agents for theranostic imaging
Authors: Wang Haoran , Kang Homan , Dinh Jason , Yokomizo Shinya , Stiles Wesley R. , Tully Molly , Cardenas Kevin , Srini Surbhi , Ingerick Jason , Ahn Sung , Bao Kai , Choi Hak Soo
Published: August 2022

Background: Due to the deep tissue penetration and reduced scattering, NIR-II fluorescence imaging is advantageous over conventional visible and NIR-I fluorescence imaging for the detection of bone growth, metabolism, metastasis, and other bone-related diseases. Methods: Here, we designed bone-targeted heptamethine cyanine fluorophores by substituting the meso-carbon with a sulfur atom, resulting in a bathochromic shift and increased fluorescence intensity, which together enables NIR-II tail imaging. Results: The newly synthesized S-substituted heptamethine fluorophores demonstrated a high affinity for hydroxyapatite and calcium phosphate, which improved bone-specific targeting with signal-background ratios >3.5. Particularly, P800SO3-PEG showed minimum nonspecific uptake, and most unbound molecules were excreted into the urinary bladder. Histological analyses demonstrated that P800SO3-PEG remained stable in the bone for over two weeks and was incorporated into bone matrices. Interestingly, the flexible thiol ethylene glycol linker on P800SO3-PEG induced a promising photothermal effect, making this bone-targeted agent a potential theranostic imaging agent.Conclusions: P800SO3-PEG shows a high affinity for bone tissues, minimum nonspecific uptake in the major organs, and photothermal effect upon laser irradiation, making it promising as a targeted NIR theranostic agent for bone diseases.
Facile preparation and adsorption behavior studies of poly(acrylic acid)-based hydrogels reinforced by hydrogen bonds for methylene blue dye
Authors: Yao Jiale , Yang He , Zuo Danying , Xu Jing , Zhang Hongwei
Published: August 2022

To suppress the extreme swelling of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) hydrogels, two series of PAA-based hydrogels with additional non-covalent crosslinks were successfully synthesized by incorporating allyloxypolyethyleneglycol (APEG) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to form hydrogen bonds. The developed hydrogels were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The swelling and methylene blue (MB) adsorption experiments of them were performed. Both series of hydrogels exhibited moderate swelling ratios of 213 ~ 235 g g-1 and excellent removal efficiency of MB (> 92%). Based on kinetic assessments, the MB adsorption process could be well-described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models, suggesting a monolayer chemisorption mechanism. The maximum theoretical adsorption capacity (qm) of the PAA-based hydrogel with PVP could achieve 2483.2 mg g-1. Regeneration experiments showed that both series of hydrogels could endure adsorption/desorption for at least 5 consecutive cycles with MB removal efficiency of higher than 80%. Therefore, it was believed that this study could provide a facile method to develop hydrogel adsorbents and a promising adsorbent material with high adsorption capacity for the removal of MB from dye-containing wastewater.
Senna occidentalis (L.) Link root extract inhibits Plasmodium growth in vitro and in mice
Authors: Mogaka Simeon , Molu Halkano , Kagasi Esther , Ogila Kenneth , Waihenya Rebeccah , Onditi Faith , Ozwara Hastings
Published: August 2022

Background: Senna occidentalis (L.) Link has been used worldwide in traditional treatment of many diseases and conditions including snakebite. In Kenya, a decoction from the plant roots taken orally, is used as a cure for malaria. Leaf extracts from the plant have been shown to possess antiplasmodial activity, in vitro. However, the curative potency of the plant root against established malaria infection is yet to be scientifically validated, in vivo. On the other hand, there are reports on variation in bioactivity of extracts obtained from this plant species, depending on the plant part used and place of origin among other factors. In this study, we demonstrated the antiplasmodial potency of Senna occidentalis roots extract in vitro, and in mice.Methods: Methanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, hexane and water extracts of S. occidentalis root were tested for in vitro antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum, strain 3D7. Cytotoxicity of the most active solvent extracts was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the curative potency in Plasmodium berghei infected mice evaluated by Rane’s test. Results: All the solvent extracts showed suppressive activity against P. falciparum, in vitro, in a concentration dependent manner. The suppression was also dependent on polarity of solvents used with the methanolic extract (most polar) being 10-fold more active than hexane extract (least polar). The extracts showed no toxicity to Vero cells at the tested concentrations and significantly suppressed P. berghei parasitemia in Rane’s test. Similarly, the extracts prolonged the survival time the infected animals significantly. Conclusions: Senna occidentalis (L.) Link root extract suppresses malaria parasites growth in vitro and in BALB/c mice. The plant root, therefore, is a potential source of antimalarial principles. This study has scientifically validated the ethnomedical usage of S. occidentalis roots in management of malaria among some Kenyan communities.
Composite Hydroxyapatite Treatment for Recorded PAHs from Real Samples of Khamis-Mushait, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Said Tarek O. , Awwad Nasser S. , Amri Fatmah A. El
Published: August 2022

The sorption investigation was applied using Hydroxyapatite (Hap650) for three recorded polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PAHs. These PAHs included: Naphthalene (NAP), Anthracene (ANT) and Chrysene (CHR) recorded in real street dust samples of Khamis-Mushait area. The sorption indicated that the uptake was 66.89, 69.49 and 19.67 mg/g, respectively after 120 min. For the adsorption of organic contaminants, this approach proved to be both affordable and effective. The impact of several parameters such as shaking time, sorbent weight, concentration and temperature was studied. In addition, multiple isotherm models were used to indicate an adsorption mechanism. The greatest R2 values indicate that the Langmuir adsorption model is more applicable.
Short-term outcomes of colorectal cancer surgery in older patients. A novel nomogram predicting postoperative morbi-mortality.
Authors: Moro-Valdezate David , Martín-Arévalo José , Ferro-Echevarría Óscar , Pla-Martí Vicente , García-Botello Stephanie , Pérez-Santiago Leticia , Gadea-Mateo Ricardo , Tarazona Noelia , Roda Desamparados , Roselló-Keränen Susana , Espí-Macías Alejandro
Published: August 2022

Purpose
To analyze short-term outcomes in curative-intent colorectal cancer surgery and determine risk factors for postoperative complications and mortality.
Methods
Retrospective study conducted at a single tertiary university institution. All adult patients undergoing colorectal surgery from January 2010 to December 2019 were included. Patients were stratified by age into two groups: <75 years and ≥ 75 years. Primary outcome was the influence of age on 30-day complications and mortality. Independent risk factors for postoperative adverse events or mortality were analyzed and two novel nomograms were constructed.
Results
Of the 1486 patients included, 580 were older (≥ 75 years). Older subjects presented more comorbidities and tumors were located mainly in right colon (45.7%). After matching, no between-group differences in surgical postoperative complications were observed. The 30-day mortality rate was 5.3% for the older and 0.8% for the non-older group (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, the independent risk factors for postoperative complications were peripheral vascular disease, chronic pulmonary disease, severe liver disease, postoperative transfusion and surgical approach. Independent risk factors for 30-day mortality were age ≥ 80 years, cerebrovascular disease, severe liver disease and postoperative transfusion. The model was internally and externally validated, showing high accuracy.
Conclusion
Patients aged ≥ 75 years had similar postoperative complications but higher 30-day mortality than their younger counterparts. Patients with peripheral vascular disease, chronic pulmonary disease or severe liver disease should be informed of higher postoperative complications. But patients aged ≥ 80 suffering cerebrovascular disease, severe liver disease or needing postoperative transfusion should be warned of significantly increased risk of postoperative mortality.
The effects of the duration, intensity and magnitude of far-fault earthquakes in seismic retrofitting an RC bridge
Authors: Mansouri Saman , Pouraminian Majid
Published: August 2022

This paper investigated the effects of the duration, intensity, and magnitude of earthquakes in seismic retrofitting of RC bridges using seismic bearings. First, the seismic retrofit of an RC bridge using seismic bearings under the Tabas earthquake was investigated. Seismic bearings included elastomeric bearing (EB), lead rubber bearing (LRB), and friction pendulum bearing (FPB). In order to investigate the effects of this equipment, the condition of the deck with a rigid connection on the cap beams and abutments was investigated in another model. The results of the studies showed that the use of seismic bearings leads to seismic retrofit of the studied bridge, and FPB and LRB had the best results among the studied equipment, respectively. The same models were studied subjected to the Landers earthquake. The magnitude is equal to Landers and Tabas earthquakes, but the duration and intensity of the Landers earthquake are much larger than Tabas earthquake. The Landers earthquake caused instability of isolated models due to its significant duration and intensity. This issue indicates that in the far region of faults, considering the duration and intensity of earthquakes is very important to seismic retrofit of bridges using seismic bearings. Also, magnitude as the only criterion for selecting earthquakes is not suitable for seismic design and retrofit of bridges.
Influence of apical periodontitis on the systemic levels of C-reactive protein
Authors: Souza Erick , Valois Érica , Cruz Maria Carmem da , Filho Etevaldo Maia , Sluis Luc van der
Published: August 2022

Objectives This study explores the potential relation between apical periodontitis (AP) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a laboratorial surrogate of systemic inflammation. Material and Methods 144 consecutive patients were selected, after exclusion criteria, from a University Dental Clinic. A full mouth series of periapical radiographs was taken, and patients were allocated to two groups (n = 77): AP-present or AP-absent. In the AP-present group, the number of affected teeth/per patient was counted. Patient’s CRP levels were immediately measured, using the Quickread CRP®. CRP cut-off level to indicate for systemic consequences was set at ≥ 8mg/L, and CRP readings were categorized at or below this level for statistical evaluation. A Chi-square test verified whether the frequencies of CRP levels (< 8 mg/L and ≥ 8 mg/L) differed between the groups with and without AP. The odds of an AP-positive patient to present ≥ 8mg/L CRP levels was also calculated. A Spearman correlation verified whether the number of affected teeth influence the CRP levels in the AP-present group. Results The frequency of AP-free patients reading high CRP levels (≥ 8 mg/L) (11.68%) is significantly lower compared to the AP-present (25.97%) (Chi-square, X2 = 5.1404, P = 0.023). AP-positive patients displayed 2.65-fold higher risk for CRP ≥ 8 mg/L (OR = 2.65, 95%CI: 1.12–6.28). There was no correlation between the number of AP-affected teeth and the two categories of CRP blood levels (Spearman, rs=0.129, P = 0.26). Conclusions A potential systemic impact of endodontically compromised teeth has been found since AP-positive patients display 2.65-fold higher odds of increased CRP levels. Clinical Significance Patients with apical periodontitis present about 2.6 times odds to display elevated systemic levels of C-reactive protein, a serum marker that may be considered a risk factor to generate coronal heart diseases.
Association between Childhood Trauma and Medication Adherence among Patients with Major Depressive Disorder: The Moderating Role of Resilience
Authors: Wang Hongqiong , Liao Yuhua , Guo Lan , Zhang Huimin , Zhang Yingli , Lai Wenjian , Teopiz Kayla M. , Song Weidong , Zhu Dongjian , Li Lingjiang , Lu Ciyong , Fan Beifang , McIntyre Roger S.
Published: August 2022

Background
Medication adherence among patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major and modifiable problem for health care systems. Childhood trauma is considered a vital factor that might be helpful to the early risk assessment of suboptimal adherence. We aimed to comprehensively explore the associations between different types of childhood trauma and medication adherence among patients with MDD, and to test whether measure of resilience has moderating effects on the foregoing associations.
Methods
Participants were from the Depression Cohort in China (ChiCTR registry number 1900022145), 282 patients with MDD completed the 12 weeks study. The diagnosis of MDD was assessed by trained psychiatrists using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.). Childhood trauma was evaluated using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-28 item Short Form (CTQ-SF), resilience was evaluated using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Demographic characteristics, depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, suicidal ideation, suicidal attempt, insomnia symptoms, and painful somatic symptoms were also investigated. Participants were divided into groups of optimal and suboptimal adherence based on their scores on the Medication Adherence Rating Scale, and factors associated with medication adherence using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, and stratified analyses were evaluated.
Results
A total of 234 participants (83%) reported suboptimal medication adherence. After adjusting for covariates, CTQ total scores (AOR = 1.04, 95%CI = 1.01–1.06), CTQ measures of sexual abuse (AOR = 1.23, 95%CI = 1.07–1.42), and CTQ measures of physical neglect (AOR = 1.14, 95%CI = 1.04–1.12) were all associated with an increased likelihood of suboptimal adherence. There were significant moderating effects of resilience on the associations of childhood trauma (P = 0.039) and physical neglect (P = 0.034) with medication adherence. The stratification analyses showed that CTQ total scores and CTQ measures of physical neglect were independently associated with an increased risk of suboptimal adherence among patients with MDD with low-resilience or medium-resilience, while not significantly associated with suboptimal adherence in those with high-resilience.
Conclusion
Obtaining a history of childhood trauma and assessing resilience may help identify patients with suboptimal adherence when providing MDD pharmacotherapy. Psychiatrists may consider enhancing resilience to cope with the adverse effects of childhood trauma on medication adherence.
Excitation of terahertz surfacemagnetoplasmons by nonlinear mixing of laser and its second harmonic on a rippled surface of n type semiconductor
Authors: Srivas Rohit Kumar , Panwar A.
Published: August 2022

We investigated the excitation of terahertz (THz) surface magneto plasmons(SMPs) by nonlinear mixing of laser and its frequency shiftedsecond harmonic on a rippled surface of n-type semiconductor-free spaceinterface. Obliquely incident p-polarized lasers exert a nonlinear ponderomotiveforce on free electrons of n-type semiconductor. Nonlinearponderomotive force induce the oscillatory velocities at frequencies 2ω1and (ω1 −ω2). These oscillatory velocities beat the modulated electrondensity nq to get the charge density perturbation at (2ω1, 2k1z + q)and (ω1 − ω2, k1z − k2z + q). Perturbed charge density couples withthe linear oscillatory velocities to produce a nonlinear current density,which resonantly derives THz SMPs at frequency ω = 2ω1 − ω2 andpropagation constant kz = 2k1z − k2z + q. Here, q provides theextra wave number for the phase matching condition. The efficiencyof THz SMPs wave attained up to 9% and amplitude of THz SMPscontrolled by the electron cyclotron frequency ωce and incident angle θ.
Computational design of new drugs for binding ⍺-amylase as candidates for treating diabetes
Authors: Alp Meryem , Misturini Alechania , Sastre German , Gálvez-Llompart Maria
Published: August 2022

Type-2 diabetes is a pandemic metabolic disorder affecting almost 200 million people globally, and this figure is expected to rise gradually to 642 million by 2040. α-amylase is a digestive enzyme that causes postprandial hyperglycemia and blood glucose levels rise. Inhibiting the α-amylase enzyme, it could help to reduce hyperglycemia, obesity, and overweight conditions by reducing postprandial levels of glucose. In the present study, the identification of potential α-amylase inhibitors is explored as a potential strategy for treating type-2 diabetes mellitus. A new computationally driven approach aimed at identifying novel α-amylase inhibitors based on molecular docking was carried out. The interactions of potential drugs with the enzyme’s active site were investigated and compared with the contacts established by acarbose (a reference drug for α-amylase inhibition) in the crystallographic structure 1B2Y. For this active site characterization, both molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed, and the residues involved in the α-amylase–acarbose complex were considered to analyse the potential drug's interaction with the enzyme. Two potential α-amylase inhibitors (AN-153I105594 and AN-153I104845) have been selected following this computational strategy. Both compounds established a large number of interactions with key binding site α-amylase amino acids and obtained a comparable docking score with respect to the reference drug (acarbose).