bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mindfulness-based Interventions to Support Wellbeing of Adults in Low Socio-economic Settings: A Realist Review
Authors: Foale Sarah , Botma Yvonne , Heyns Tanya
Published: June 2023

Background
Mindfulness as a modality involves training the innate human capacity for present-moment awareness with a view to cultivating a more harmonious and integrated life experience, especially in the face of hardship. Over the past four decades, the field of mindfulness has grown rapidly. Despite a substantial body of literature outlining the many benefits of mindfulness practice within a range of contexts and populations, the authors identified relatively few studies that address the adaptation, application and value of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for adults within socio-economically challenged settings. To address this gap, we conducted a realist review of studies pertaining to MBIs within low socio-economic settings, culminating in a program theory which may be useful for the design of interventions going forward.
Methods
We selected realist review as the methodology as it is well suited to investigating the complex nature of social interventions. The value of realist review is that the exploration of the causal relationships between the mechanisms (M) within a specific context (C) towards particular outcomes (O) offers a deeper understanding of the intervention which may assist in more effective delivery going forward. The review follows the guidelines presented by the Realist and Meta-narrative Evidence Synthesis – Evolving Standards project
Results
Of the 112 documents identified, 13 articles met the inclusion criteria. Of these 13 studies, 11 were conducted in the United States, with little representation across the rest of the globe. The interventions described in these articles were varied. We identified mechanisms that offered beneficial outcomes for participants across a range of contexts, with indications of how interventions might be adapted towards greater accessibility, acceptability, and feasibility within communities.
Conclusion
By reviewing the various programs in their respective contexts, we developed a program theory for implementing socio-culturally adapted MBIs in low socio-economic settings. In the future, this program theory could be tested as a means to create a sense of wellbeing for people living in low socio-economic settings.
Longitudinal hippocampal subfield development associated with psychotic experiences in young people
Authors: Dooley Niamh , Roddy Darren , Carey Eleanor , Frodl Thomas , O'Hanlon Erik , Cannon Mary , O'Neill Aisling
Published: June 2023

Hippocampal volumetric reductions are observed across the psychosis spectrum, with interest in the localisation of these reductions within the hippocampal subfields increasing. Deficits of the CA1 subfield in particular have been implicated in the neuropathophysiology of psychotic disorders. Investigating the trajectory of these abnormalities in healthy adolescents repoting sub-threshold psychotic experiences (PE) can provide insight into the neural mechanisms underlying psychotic symptoms without the potentially confounding effects of a formal disorder, or antipsychotic medication. In this novel investigation, a sample of 211 young people aged 11–13 participated initially in the Adolescent Brain Development study. PE classification was determined by expert consensus at each timepoint. Participants underwent neuroimaging at 3 timepoints, over 6 years. 78 participants with at least one scan were included in the final sample; 33 who met criteria for a definite PE at least once across all the timepoints (PE group), and 45 controls. Data from bilateral subfields of interest (CA1, CA2/3, CA4/DG, presubiculum, and subiculum) were extracted for Linear Mixed Effects analyses. Right CA1 (p = 0.047), and right CA2/3 subfields (p = 0.015) displayed group by time interaction effects (subfield volume increased in the control group, and decreased in the PE group). Left presubiculum volumes were significantly reduced in the PE group compared to controls, regardless of time (p = 0.023). These findings provide novel evidence implicating hippocampal subfield abnormalities in the pathophysiology underlying psychotic experiences. The CA1 particularly may be a key indicator of vulnerability for psychosis symptomology.
Experience of severe and critical COVID-19 in interstitial lung disease patients
Authors: Pruneda Ana Karem S. , Barreto-Rodríguez José Omar , Selman Moises , Juárez-Hernández Fortunato , Buendía-Roldán Ivette
Published: June 2023

Background
Since the first case of severe COVID-19, its effect on patients with previous interstitial lung disease (ILD) has been uncertain. We aimed to describe baseline clinical characteristics in ILD patients hospitalized by several or critical COVID and compare mortality during hospitalization.
Methods
We studied patients with ILD plus COVID-19 and a control group, matched by age, 1:2 ratio of patients with COVID-19 without chronic lung disease. On admission, laboratory tests and sociodemographic variables we evaluated. We classified patients as severe or critically ill and compared baseline characteristics and mortality in each group. Additionally, we performed a sub-analysis of patients who died versus survivors.
Results
41 patients and 82 controls were analyzed. We found differences in the ILD group, women 65 versus 33% (p < 0.001); lower leukocytes (9 ± 6 versus 11 ± 7, p = 0.01), lower neutrophils (8 ± 5 vs 10 ± 6, p = 0.02). Also, higher mortality in the ILD plus critical COVID-19 group (63 vs. 33%, p = 0.007). Patients who died had higher BMI (28 ± 6 vs. 25 ± 4kg/m2, p = 0.05), less extended hospital stay (20 ± 17 vs. 36 ± 27 days, p = 0.01), and less days of evolution (9 ± 7 vs. 16 ± 16, p = 0.05).
Conclusions
We found higher mortality in patients with ILD plus critical COVID-19. Higher BMI and comorbidities were present in the non-survivors. The most common presented ILD was secondary to autoimmune diseases.
Numerical and Artificial Intelligence Techniques of Predicting Velocity Distribution in Compound Meandering Flows
Authors: Choudhary Jahnvi , Mohanta Abinash , Pradhan Arpan , Patra K. C.
Published: June 2023

Reliable investigation and simulation of flow characteristics are essential to resolve critical engineering problems such as channel design, energy losses and fluvial flows across river bends. This paper analyses the formulation of longitudinal velocity in experimental meandering channels of 1.37 and 1.06 sinuosity. RNG K-ɛ turbulence and Volume of Fluid (VOF) analysis are applied on a two-phase, 3DComputational Fluid Dynamics model of the sinous channels.. The numerical results are compared with their respective experimental data and validated with other laboratory and natural channels. The statical methods are made to observe that the numerical methods agree with the experimental values.
Inhibition and biocontrol potential of Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonense NC1 against four Phytophthora species
Authors: Liu Jinming , Zhang Shiyu , Ma Haikun , Huang Jun , Xiang Meichun , Liu Xingzhong
Published: June 2023

Phytophthora species are highly destructive soilborne oomycetes pathogens that spread through infested soil and water. Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonense NC1 has been shown to inhibit plant parasitic nematodes via volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of O. pseudogrignonense NC1 against four Phytophthora species on agar plates and in vivo bioassay. We found that NC1 significantly inhibited the mycelial growth and zoospore production of all four species of Phytophthora in a dose-dependent manner. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for inhibition of mycelial growth (or zoospore production) were 26.0% (14.8%), 18.9% (14.2%), 20.3% (8.3%) and 46.9% (4%) for Phytophthora capsici Leonian, Phytophthora infestans, Phytophthora parasitica var. nicotiana and Phytophthora sojae, respectively. The biocontrol efficiency of NC1 was 46.3% in pepper seedlings against P. capsici, almost 100% in potato tubers against P. infestans, 60% in tomato leave against P. parasitica and 100% in soybean leave against P. sojae, respectively. Our findings suggest that O. pseudogrignonense NC1 has great potential as a biocontrol agent for managing Phytophthora diseases.
Bandwidth Enhancement of Micro Strip Patch Antenna for 5G Range Applications
Authors: kolli Venkatrao - , G Merlin Sheeba
Published: June 2023

The journey from 4G to 5G involves in lot many challenges in terms of spectrum sharing to antenna design to handle large bandwidths and work cooperatively. Compatible antenna design requirements include simple geometry, feed system, and scope for mass manufacturing. In this paper, the technique of designing antenna which can operate at 28GHz band has been demonstrated. The basic design is modified several times in terms of the feed line structure and the radiating patch geometry. In every stage the antenna is analyzed in terms of several radiation parameters to understand the radiation characteristics like pattern and gain. On the other hand, it is possible to study the effect of the geometrical non-uniformity along the plane of the feed line on the corresponding gain, pattern and resonant characteristics. The simulations are carried out on the HFSS and the analysis is performed on the simulated plots.
The fire regimes of the Southern Appalachians may radically shift under climate change.
Authors: Robbins Zachary , Loudermilk E. Louise , Mozelewski Tina G. , Jones Kate , Scheller Robert M.
Published: June 2023

Background: Increased drought due to climate change will alter fire regimes in mesic forested landscapes where fuel moisture typically limits fire spread, and where fuel loads are consistently high. These landscapes are often extensively modified by human land use change and management. We forecast the influence of varying climate scenarios on potential shifts in the wildfire regime across the mesic forests of the Southern Appalachians. This area has a long history of fire exclusion, land use change, and an expanding wildland urban interface. We considered interactions among climate, vegetation, and anthropogenic influences to forecast future fire regimes and changes to the forest structure. We used climate scenarios representing divergent drought patterns (overall drought trend and interannual variability) within a process-based fire model that captures the influence of climate, fuels, and fire ignition patterns and suppression.
Results: Compared to simulations using historical climate (1972-2018), future total burned area (2020-2100) increased by 42.3 % under high drought variability, 104.8 % under a substantial increase in drought severity, and 484.7 % when combined. Landscape patterns of fire exclusion and suppression drove the spatial variability of fire return intervals (FRI). Our projections indicate wide spatial variability in future fire regimes with some areas experiencing multiple fires per decade while others experience no fire. More frequent fires corresponded with increased oak prevalence and a reduction in the biomass of mesic hardwoods and maple; however, mesic hardwoods remained prevalent under all fire intervals because of their contemporary dominance.
Conclusions: Our study illustrates how future drought-fire-management interactions and a history of fire exclusion could alter future fire regimes and tree species composition. We find that increasing trends in drought magnitude and variability may increase wildfire activity, particularly in areas with minimal fire suppression. In ecosystems where fuel moisture (and not load) is the standard limitation to fire spread, increased pulses of drought may provide the conditions for more fire activity, regardless of effects on fuel loading. We conclude the effects of climate and human management will determine the novel conditions for both fire regime and ecosystem structure.
Blood donor biobank as a resource in personalized biomedical genetic research
Authors: Clancy Jonna , Ritari Jarmo , Vaittinen Eevaleena , Arvas Mikko , Tammi Silja , FinnGen FinnGen , Koskela Satu , Partanen Jukka
Published: June 2023

Backround
Health questionnaires and donation criteria result to accumulation of highly selected individuals in blood donor population. To understand better the usefulness of blood donor-based biobank in personalised disease-associated genetic studies and for possible personalised blood donation policies we evaluated the occurrence and distributions of common and rare disease-associated genetic variants in Finnish Blood Service Biobank.
Methods
We analysed among 31,880 blood donors the occurrence and geographical distribution of (i) 53 rare Finnish enriched disease-associated variants, (ii) mutations assumed to influence blood donation: four Bernard-Soulier syndrome and two hemochromatosis mutations, (iii) type I diabetes risk genotype HLA-DQ2/DQ8. In addition, we analysed the level of consanguinity in Blood Service Biobank.
Results
80.3% of blood donors carried at least one (range 0–9 per donor) of the rare variants, many in homozygous form as well. Donors carrying multiple rare variants were enriched in the Eastern Finland. Haemochromatosis mutation HFE C282Y homozygosity was 43.8% higher than expected, whereas mutations leading to Bernard-Soulier thrombocytopenia were rare. The frequency of HLA-DQ2/DQ8 genotype was slightly lower than in the general population. First-degree consanguinity was higher in Blood Service Biobank than in the general population.
Conclusion
We demonstrate that despite donor selection the Blood Service Biobank is a valuable resource for personalised medical research and for genotype-selected samples from unaffected individuals. Geographical genetic substructure of Finland enables efficient recruitment of donors carrying rare variants. Furthermore, we show that blood donor biobank material can be utilized for personalized blood donation policies.
Extreme storms can limit the expansion of the invasive species Caulerpa cylindracea in the rocky shore.
Authors: Sanz-Lazaro Carlos , Terradas-Fernández Marc , Casado-Coy Nuria
Published: June 2023

Invasive species constitute a major environmental concern worldwide and extreme events, favoured by climate change, are expected to enhance their invasibility, however more scientific evidence is needed to better understand this interaction. We tested manipulatively in the rocky shore how the invasibility of the alga Caulerpa cylindracea, one of the most deleterious exotic species worldwide, was affected as storms become more extreme. We found that low intensity storms with a high frequency enhanced the invasibility of C. cylindracea, while extreme storms, limited the invasibility of this alga. These effects did not only occur on the short-term, but also after several months after the disturbance, suggesting legacy effects. C. cylindracea having a low attachment capacity is expected to need other canopy-forming algae to facilitate its attachment to the substrate, while large bare rock patches may leave C. cylindracea too exposed to the wave effect on rocky shores hindering its survival in this habitat. This study suggests that extreme events do not necessarily enhance the invasibility of exotic species and can have contrasting effects depending on the habitat. Thus, the effects of extreme events on the invasibility of exotic species needs to be particularly studied in different habitats, so optimized management strategies can be adapted to each habitat in pursuit to mitigate as much as possible the effects of climate change.
Nitrate Reductase Drives Nutrition Control and Disease Resistance in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivars
Authors: Xu Huilian , Kong Mengmeng , Ali Qurban , Jing Hairong , Wang Fuli , Xu Qicong , Li Fenglan , Gu Jinsong , Shen Yu
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Nitrogen plays an important role in plant nutrition. Nitrate reductase can increase the activity can rapidly reduce the accumulation of nitrate in plant tissues and indirectly prevent the occurrence of diseases and insect pests. However, the excess of soluble nitrogen compounds in plants will induce plant diseases and insect pests.
Methods
In this study, the disease-resistant tomato cultivar 'Myko' and its parents were compared with the disease-susceptible tomato cultivar 'Momotaro', and the positive correlation was confirmed between the disease resistance and the enhanced nitrate reductase activity and the up-regulated NR1 (the gene of nitrate reductase).
Results
The expression level of the NR1 gene and the daily average yield of tomato fruit during the growth period were simulated by the modified Gaussian curve equation (y = YMe−α(x−τ)^2+YB (1 + βt)). Compared with Momotaro, Myoko F1 was less prone to disease and maintained relatively high photosynthetic capacity and fruit producing potential in the later stages, which showed that the above-average daily fruit yield and NR1 gene expression shifted rightward in the Gaussian curve. The high activity of nitrate reductase, and concentration as well as amino acids in Myoko F1 is much lower as compared to Momotaro.
Conclusions
In summary, the analysis of nitrate reductase genes and the mathematical models adopted indicate that the increase in nitrate reductase activity can promote nitrogen metabolism, reduce the accumulation of nitrate and amino acids in tomato leaves and fruits, and thus reduce the occurrence of tomato early leaf blight.
Disparities and Equity Dashboards in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Qualitative Study of Expert Perspectives
Authors: Razdan Sheila , Hedli Laura , Sigurdson Krista , Profit Jochen , Morton Christine
Published: June 2023

Objective:
Racial/ethnic disparities are well-described in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We explore expert opinion on their root causes, potential solutions, and the ability of health equity dashboards to meaningfully address NICU disparities.
Study Design:
We conducted 12 qualitative semi-structured interviews, purposively selecting a diverse group of neonatal experts. We used grounded theory to develop codes, shape interviews, and conduct analysis.
Result:
Participants identified three sources of disparity: interpersonal bias, care process barriers, and social determinants of health, particularly as they affect parental engagement in the NICU. Proposed solutions included racial/cultural concordance, bolstering hospital-based resources, and policy interventions. Health equity dashboards were viewed as useful but limited because clinical metrics do not account for many of the aforementioned sources of disparities.
Conclusion:
Equity dashboards serve as a motivational starting point for quality improvement; future iterations may require novel, qualitative data sources to identify underlying etiologies of NICU disparities.
A realist review of power dynamics in the implementation of intersectoral collaborative health programmes and policies in LMICs: Protocol
Authors: Aivalli Praveenkumar , Dada Sara , Gilmore Brynne , Srini Prashanth Nuggehalli , De Brún Aoife
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
Intersectoral Collaboration (ISC) is increasingly recognised as a critical aspect of global health and an important prerequisite for developing integrated public health policies. However, in practice, ISC has proven challenging due to its complexity. While studies have documented factors that have facilitated ISC (like shared vision, leadership and clear delineation of sectoral roles) and those that have hindered ISC (including resource constraints, competing priorities and a lack of accountability), there is a limited understanding of the role of power on collaboration effectiveness while implementing ISC interventions. Thus, the present review is expected to bridge this knowledge gap by synthesising evidence from the literature on exploring how, why, for whom, under what circumstances and to what extent power dynamics between different sectors influence the collaboration while implementation of intersectoral health programmes and policies in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Method and analysis:
A realist review will be conducted to explain the role of power dynamics in the implementation of intersectoral policies through following a number of iterative steps: (1) Eliciting initial programme theories by engaging key experts for input and feedback, (2) Performing systematic and purposive searches for grey and peer-reviewed literature on Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science databases along with Google Scholar (3) Selecting appropriate documents while considering rigour and relevance, (4) Extracting data, (5) Synthesising data and (6) Refining the initial programme theory into a middle range realist theory. By generating Context-Mechanism-Outcome (CMO) configurations, this review seeks to understand how power dynamics between different sectors influence the implementation of intersectoral health programmes and policies and explore the mechanisms that trigger specific outcomes (implementation success or failure) in LMICs.
Discussion:
Given the complex nature of power dynamics in ISCs, realist philosophy is well suited to address the aim of this study. The findings from this review (refined programme theory) will be tested through case studies of the national nutrition mission in Assam, India, which uses an ISC approach to implement nutrition interventions. The outcomes of this synthesis are also expected to guide the implementation of other ISC approaches in similar settings.
Prophylactic versus Preemptive Modified Donor Lymphocyte Infusion for High-risk Acute Leukemia after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Yang Lu , Lai Xiaoyu , Yang Ting , Lu Ying , Liu Lizhen , Shi Jimin , Zhao Yanmin , Wu Yibo , Chen Yi , Yu Jian , Xiao Haowen , Ouyang Guifang , Ren jinhua , Cao Junjie , Hu Yongxian , Tan Yamin , Ye Yishan , Cai Zhen , Xu Weiqun , Huang He , Luo Yi
Published: June 2023

Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) has been widely used in preventing post-transplant relapse. We performed an intent-to-treat analysis to compare the clinical outcomes and superiority of prophylactic modified DLI (pro-DLI) and preemptive modified DLI (pre-DLI) in patients with high-risk relapse features acute leukemia. Pro-DLI was performed in 95 patients, whereas the pre-DLI cohort included 219 patients. Thirty-eight patients in the pre-DLI cohort became MRD positive and received pre-DLI. Pro-DLI cohort had lower 3-year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR, 25.3% versus 38.0%, P = 0.01) and nonsignificant trend toward survival benefit (overall survival (OS), 65.2% versus 58.4%, P = 0.24; progression-free-survival (PFS), 63.4% versus 53.7%, P = 0.05). Multivariable analysis demonstrated a strong protective effect of pro-DLI on OS (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.62, P = 0.03), PFS (HR = 0.54, P = 0.003) and CIR (HR = 0.45, P = 0.001). Subgroup analysis of patients who received allo-HSCT at first complete remission (CR1) indicated that pro-DLI achieved lower 3-year CIR, higher non-relapse mortality (NRM), and no benefit on survival. In patients who received HSCT beyond CR1, pro-DLI significantly decreased CIR without increasing NRM and improved survival. Pro-DLI can be recommended for patients with high-risk features who received allo-HSCT beyond CR1 while pre-DLI could be chosen by those who transplanted in CR1.
Adverse event profile differences between Trastuzumab Emtansine and Trastuzumab Deruxtecan: a real-world, pharmacovigilance study
Authors: Liu Fen , Yin Guisen , Xue Shuyi , Rehman Faisal UL , Liao Dehua , Pan Yong
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
Trastuzumab emtansine(T-DM1) and trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd, formerly DS-8201a), the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2)-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), are commonly used in metastatic breast cancer. However, their real-world safety profile has not been adequately compared.
Objective
We aimed to investigate the adverse event (AE) profile of T-DM1 and T-DXd reported by the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).
Methods
All indications were searched for T-DM1 and T-DXd, as primary suspected drugs from FAERS data (December 2014 to December 2022). Disproportionality analyses were performed by reporting odds ratios (ROR). The AE with a total number of reports less than five or a lower limit of 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of ROR less than one were excluded to avoid false positives༎
Results
6333 and 2032 reports of T-DM1 and T-DXd were submitted to FAERS. Finally, 171 and 42 significant signals for T-DM1 and T-DXd were systematically analyzed. The highest frequency and strongest signal of AE were neuropathy peripheral (4.90%) and hepatopulmonary syndrome (ROR = 487.34) for T-DM1, nausea (15.99%) and interstitial lung disease (ROR = 82.33) for T-DXd. Disproportionality analyses on the SOCs between T-DM1 and T-DXd were performed. T-DM1 occurred more frequently in cardiac disorders (ROR = 13.98), eye disorders (ROR = 3.88), hepatobiliary disorders (ROR = 1.42), infections and infestations (ROR = 1.32), investigations (ROR = 1.67), musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders (ROR = 4.72), nervous system disorders (ROR = 4.61), skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders (ROR = 1.82), psychiatric disorders (ROR = 9.34) and vascular disorders (ROR = 6.38). While T-DXd occurred more frequently in blood and lymphatic system disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, administration site general condition disorders, metabolism and nutrition disorders, and respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders.
Conclusions
Significant differences in the AE profile between T-DM1 and T-DXd have been systematically described and analyzed, from which we recommend more attention should be paid to hematotoxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, and ILD or pneumonia for T-DXd and thrombocytopenia, hepatobiliary disorder and peripheral neuropathy for T-DM1.
Therapeutic efficacy of Xingnaojing injection for ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xiao Falin , Xue Jin , Huang Shiyu , Lai Yingyao , Zhu Weifeng , Zuo Zhengyun , Chen Lihua
Published: June 2023

Background
Stroke is one of the leading causes of human disability and death, and ischemic stroke constitutes 69.6–70.8% of all strokes. Xingnaojing injection (XNJ) is used to treat stroke in China, but its specific mechanism is not completely clear. This meta-analysis evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of XNJ for ischemic stroke treatment and showed that XNJ could inhibit the inflammatory response of stroke patients.
Methods
Nine databases were searched from inception to 20 July 2021, following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data of interest, and assessed the risk of bias. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis evaluated the heterogeneity and its impact on the results.
Results
In total, 24 separate RCTs, which were all conducted in China and published from 2008 to 2021, involved 2522 patients with ischemic stroke. XNJ combined with CT were better than CT alone in overall response rate (RR = 1.15, 95%CI [1.12, 1.19], p = 0.00), NIHSS score (WMD=-3.38, 95%CI [-4.35, -2.40], p = 0.00), Barthel index (WMD = 8.19, 95%CI [5.70, 10.68], p = 0.00), TNF-α (SMD=-2.75, 95%CI [-3.67, -1.84], p = 0.00), IL-6 (SMD=-2.56, 95%CI [-3.34, -1.70], p = 0.00), and CRP (SMD=-1.30, 95%CI [-1.58, -1.01], p = 0.00). Meta-analysis of safety showed that the data were not statistically significant (p = 0.21). For adverse events with low certainty evidence, safety needs further verification.
Conclusions
Based on the results, XNJ combined with CT likely improved clinical symptoms compared with CT alone. The mechanism may be related to the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. More high-quality, multicenter, and large-sample RCTs should be tested and verified in the future.
Detection of Target Frequency from Multichannel SSVEP Based BCI System using combined approach of BSS-CCA
Authors: Ojha Mukesh Kumar , Sharma Rishi Raj , Mukul Manoj Kumar
Published: June 2023

This paper demonstrate the combined approach of Blind Source Separation (BSS) and canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to detect the frequency component of Steady state Visual evoked Potential (SSVEP) based Brain computer Interface (BCI) system from non-invasive recorded electroencephalography (EEG) signal. Detection of SSVEP frequency component with great accuracy is most challenging and difficult task for the development of SSVEP based BCI system. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) is the most widely and rigorously employed method to detect the SSVEP frequency component from multichannel recorded EEG signal. But the presence of spontaneous EEG signal and artifacts that often occurs during the recording of scalp-based EEG signal may deteriorate the detection accuracy of SSVEP frequency component from recorded EEG signal. This work investigates the blind source separation (BSS) as preprocessing technique to decorrelate the source signal (SSVEP) from the recorded, mixed-signal (EEG) to improve the detection accuracy of SSVEP based BCI Inference system. In this paper, the author proposes second-order AMUSE-based BSS algorithms as preprocessing methods for multichannel EEG signals. The CCA technique employs the preprocessed signal to detect the SSVEP frequency components from the recorded EEG signal. The obtained finding indicates that the proposed BSS-CCA method significantly improved the SSVEP detection accuracy as compared to the standard CCA method. In addition to this, the author has also reported that selection of stimulus frequency also plays a vital role in order to improve the detection accuracy of SSVEP BCI system. The obtained result indicate that average detection is much more improved using when stimulus frequency is the range of alpha band (8Hz – 16Hz) as compared to stimulus frequency beyond alpha band (above 16Hz) using both CCA and BSS-CCA approach.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of lymphatics using a crown-rump length 30 mm human fetus
Authors: Huang Shu , Zhang Hechen , Zhao Peng , Chen Xinlin , Yan Gen , Jin Zhe-Wu
Published: June 2023

Few lymphatic morphological studies have been conducted to describe human development compared to the number of vascular studies. In this study, serial sections from a 30-mm human fetus were used to observe the differentiation of the lymphatics and blood vessels through D2-40 immunohistochemical staining and three-dimensional reconstruction to reflect the morphological characteristics. We found a connection between the lymphatics of the left jugular lymph sac flowing into the left brachiocephalic vein but not between the thoracic duct (TD) and left venous angle. We found a lymphatic plexus in the sacral region, which was located between L4 and S1. Moreover, a pair of paravertebral longitudinal lymphatics originated near the CC and collected lymphatics that accompanied the posterior intercostal blood vessels and finally flowed into the TD. The left lymphatics had a slightly greater advantage than that of the right lymphatics. In contrast, the venous system on the right had a greater advantage than that on the left. In addition, a pair of paravertebral longitudinal lymphatics may have been described as the thoracic duct.
Effect of Cr content on hot corrosion behavior of Inconel alloys in molten LiCl-Li2O
Authors: Lim Kyu-Seok , Choi Woo-Seok , Kim Wan-Bae , Cho Soo-Haeng , Lee Jong-Hyeon
Published: June 2023

The hot corrosion behaviors of Inconel alloys with different Cr contents (Inconel 600, 601, and 690), which are used widely in nuclear plants, were investigated in molten LiCl-Li2O salts. The hot corrosion behaviors were studied by measuring the mass and attack depth changes, surface and cross-sectional morphologies and elemental distributions, and compositional changes at the subscale and substrate scale as well as the spalled oxide scale. At 288 h, the weight losses of Inconel 601 and Inconel 690 were approximately four and twelve times higher, respectively, than that of Inconel 600. The corrosion products of all tested alloys were Cr2O3, NiO, and FeCr2O4. Inconel 600, which exhibited a dense and continuous external corrosion layer and an internal corrosion layer with localized corrosion behavior, exhibited superior corrosion resistance compared with those of Inconel 601 and 690, which showed a spalled external corrosion layer and an internal corrosion layer with uniform corrosion behavior. Thus, the corrosion resistance of the Inconel alloys tested in the hot lithium molten salts in an oxidizing atmosphere is closely related to the contents of the primary alloying elements in the alloys. Of the various alloys analyzed in this study, Inconel 600 exhibited the highest corrosion resistance. Thus, a Cr content of 16.30 wt% or less, Ni content of at least 73.66 wt%, and Fe content considerably lower than 8.15 wt% can result in excellent corrosion resistance.
primerJinn – a tool for rationally designing multiplex PCR primer sets and in silico PCR
Authors: Limberis Jason D , Metcalfe John Z
Published: June 2023

Background
Multiplex PCR amplifies numerous targets in a single tube reaction and is essential in molecular biology and clinical diagnostics. One of its most important applications is in the targeted sequencing of pathogens. Despite this importance, few tools are available for designing multiplex primers.
Results
We developed primerJinn, a tool that designs a set of multiplex primers and allows for the in silico PCR evaluation of primer sets against numerous input genomes. We used primerJinn to create a multiplex PCR for the sequencing of drug resistance-conferring gene regions from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which were then successfully sequenced.
Conclusions
primerJinn provides a user-friendly, efficient, and accurate method for designing multiplex PCR primers and performing in silico PCR. It can be used for various applications in molecular biology and bioinformatics research, including the design of assays for amplifying and sequencing drug-resistance-conferring regions in important pathogens.
CTGF regulates mineralization in human mature chondrocyte by controlling Pit-1 and modulating ANK via the BMP/Smad signaling
Authors: Xiao Peng , Zhu Yunong , Xu Hongrui , Li Junlei , Tao Angui , Wang Hongji , Cheng Dong , Dou Xiaojie , Rao Xiangang , Guo Lin
Published: June 2023

Objective: Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has a potent proliferative, differentiated, and mineral effect, and is thought to be involved in cartilage mineralization in Osteoarthritis (OA). However, little is known about the mechanism of chondrocytic mineralization that is induced by Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). As a crucial mediator in regulating mineral responses, the type III phosphate transporter 1 (Pit-1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of articular mineralization. The aim of this study was, therefore, to determine whether Connective tissue growth factor regulates the formation of mature chondrocyte mineralization and the mechanisms underlying such mineralization.
Methods: The effect of Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was analyzed with human C-28/I2 chondrocyte. The chondrocytes were treated with Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) or related inhibitor, and transfected with Overexpression and siRNA transfection of the type III phosphate transporter 1(Pit-1). The chondrocytes were subjected to Alizarin red S staining, PiPer phosphate assay kit, Alkaline Phosphatase Diethanolamine Activity Kit, ELISA, RT-PCR or Western blot analysis.
Results: Stimulation with Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) markedly upregulated expression of the type III phosphate transporter 1(Pit-1) and levels of mineralization in the chondrocyte through activation of α5β1 integrin and BMP/Samd1/5/8 signaling pathways. Moreover, treatment of overexpressed Pit-1 could significantly upregulate expression of multipass transmembrane ankylosis (ANK) transporter in the cells. Blockade of CTGF receptor using α5β1 Integrin blocking antibody significantly suppressed the expression of Pit-1 and ANK transporter, and the events of chondrocyte mineralization.
Conclusions: Our data indicate that Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) playing a critical role in the chondrocyte mineralization is dependent on the expression of the type III phosphate transporter 1(Pit-1) and multipass transmembrane ankylosis (ANK) transporter, while inhibition of CTGF activity might serve as a novel therapeutic approach in the management of OA.
Bioengineering novel AAV9-mGULO-GT for multi-disease gene therapy: Targeting mutated GULO expression to cure scurvy and brain diseases.
Authors: Liu Jing , Kumar Manish , Guo Jing , Huang Luyuan , Zhang Zhen , WANG Yaofeng , Luo Rongping , chu shilong , Chen Shuyan , Liu Rongrong , Yu Jinjin , Lin Runxia , yu shengyong , zhou chunhua , Liu Jinpeng , Li Yusha , Das Pratteek , Zhang Jitian , Li Yi , Zhu Ping , Pei Duanqing
Published: June 2023

Current clinical breakthroughs in gene therapy have brought adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to the forefront of gene delivery systems. Vitamin C deficiency due to GULO mutations is a genetic disorder affecting guinea pigs and humans. In our study, we used AAV9-mGULO-GT to deliver the mouse GULO gene to guinea pigs and restore Vc synthesis in affected tissues, including the liver and brain. AAV9-mGULO-GT treatment significantly improved survival rates and bone health compared to non-treated and Vc-treated groups. Dot blot analysis confirmed restored Vc content in various parts of the brain. Additionally, micro-CT imaging showcased significant enhancements in bone mineral density, content, width, and cortical thickness. Further, RNA sequencing and immunological studies of organs validated the successful restoration of Vc synthesis. These findings highlight the potential of AAV9-mGULO-GT as a therapeutic option for GULO-related scurvy and other genetic disorders. The success of our study underscores the importance of advanced targeting and gene rescue systems in developing effective therapies for genetic disorders in clinical applications.
Fire behavior and mechanical properties of phosphorus-containing silica gel coated ammonium polyphosphate as fire retardants in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
Authors: Zheng Ran , Li Mengqi , Chen Yajun , Hao Fenghao , Xu Bo
Published: June 2023

To enhance its properties, ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was subjected to modification using a synthesized phosphorus-containing silica gel, resulting in MAPP. Ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was modified by synthesized phosphorus-containing silica gel, resulting in MAPP, which was then used to form thermoplastic polyurethane composites. MAPP exhibited better thermal stability with a smaller dispersion size, lower initial decomposition temperature and better resistance to heat at high temperatures than APP. At the same time, MAPP showed more obvious advantages in improving the char yield, flame retardant performance and mechanical properties of TPU. TPU/5%MAPP showed a limiting oxygen index of 29.1% during burning tests, significantly better than TPU/5%APP (27.3%). The cone calorimeter test results also indicated that the incorporation of MAPP resulted in a significant reduction in key parameters such as peak heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke release 爱and an increase of the char yield of TPU composite. The TG result showed that the Tmax of the TPU/5%MAPP composite increased and the mass loss rate decreased compared with that of TPU/5%APP. Moreover, the tensile strength of the TPU/5%MAPP composite increased by 18.5% compared with the TPU/5%APP composite due to the improved dispersibility of MAPP than APP. An analysis of the fire resistance mechanism showed that the improved flame retardance in the TPU/5%MAPP composite resulted from the structural changes in the char residue. This study provides an efficient and extensible approach for the synthesis of high-performance flame retardant TPU materials.
Flexible CB Co-Planar Wave Based Hinge Type Antenna for Breast Cancer Detection
Authors: Kulandhaisamy Indhumathi , Peng Sheng , Chakrabarti Tulika , Kshirsagar Pravin Ramdas , Chakrabarti Prasun , Margala Martin , Unhelkar Bhuvan
Published: June 2023

This paper presents hinge-shaped conductor backed (CB) monopole antenna designed to operate at 5.8 GHz frequency in the frequency range of 4 to 8 GHz with reflection co-efficient below − 29 dB with impedance as 50Ω. The wearable flexible antenna is of the dimensions 10mm X 10 mm. An array of 4 antenna model has also been tested for analysis. Kapton polyimide (substrate) and copper materials were used for the fabrication process. Flexible monopole antennas on a Kapton polyimide are designed to be in contact with the breast tissues with respective dielectric models. The flexible Kapton material with antennas is to be placed on the breast phantom which makes the detection easier. The proposed model is eco-friendly, cost effective and reliable product to be readily launched.
Pulmonary Mucormycosis in An elderly Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patient: a Case Report
Authors: Luo Bingqing , Chen Ying , Tan Xiaoyan , Chen Lin
Published: June 2023

Mucormycosis is a rare but fatal opportunistic fungal infection. Patients with hematologic malignancies who use immunosuppressant and glucocorticoid extensively are susceptible to mucormycosis. We report a case of an elderly patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who infected with pulmonary mucormycosis during chemotherapy. With a good balance of chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression and control of mucorales infection, azactidine combined with venetoclax gave the patient a complete remission of leukemia and pulmonary mucormycosis was well controlled. But due to poor compliance, the patient died of asphyxiation as a result of aspiration of pulmonary necrotic substances after discharge at home. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of an elderly patient with AML complicated with pulmonary mucormycosis dying of asphyxia from necrotic pulmonary substances. Proper precautions to should be taken in the management mucormycosis.
Risk Evaluation on the Pcbs and Ocps Residues in the Water of Irtysh River
Authors: Tang Shi-Zhan , Wang Hai-Tao , Chen Zhong-Xiang , Hu Yao-Peng , Hao Qi-Rui , Wang Ji-Long , Qin Dong-Li , Wang Peng
Published: June 2023

To enhance the prevention and control of OCPs and PCBs pollution, the status of pollution by both in the Irtysh River was analyzed, and a risk evaluation was made on it. The pollutant residue amounts at the 18 sampling sites were shown as follows, including α-HCH: ND − 8.2269 ng/L, δ-HCH: ND − 6.7385 ng/L, β-HCH: ND − 5.2714 ng/L, γ-HCH: ND − 0.1320 ng/L, PCB 28: ND − 0.4111 ng/L, Aldrin: ND − 3.7320 ng/L, Dieldrin: ND − 4.8551 ng/L and Endrin: ND − 6.1473 ng/L. It was found from the source of OCPs that HCHs came from the historical use of industrial HCHs, while Aldrin, Dieldrin and Endrin came from the use of pesticides. By PCA (principal component analysis), three principal components were extracted. The total variance explained came to 95.98%, a result of the use of HCHs, the variation in OCPs materials and the research about pest attack features in the region. Further ecological risk evaluations indicated that affected by the use of pesticides, the ecological risk of OCPs at the upper reaches of Irtysh River was higher than that at other sites. It was necessary to extend the test objects, test types and test cycles to safeguard the ecological security and human health.
Active Control of Shaft Torsional Vibration with a Dynamic Torque Actuator
Authors: Luo Qing , Fan Wen-Kun , Hu Jie , Dong Jia-Xin , Wang Jiao
Published: June 2023

Multi-harmonic fluctuations from the output torque of an engine, propeller, or other power source constitute the main source of torsional vibration of a shafting system, and stimulate other coupled vibrations. This paper introduces a new method to address torsional vibrations of shafting systems based on line spectrum active control. A multi-body dynamic analysis model is used to reveal the coupling characteristics of torsional vibration and vibration in other directions. In addition, a new cross-coupled multi-channel line spectrum active control algorithm is proposed alongside a new type of torque actuator where the internal electromagnetic structure contains a rotating stator and rotor. These components are connected with springs, and the whole assembly can rotate with the shafting. The dynamic torque is issued according to the command of the active control system in order to suppress the torque fluctuation due to the power sources, which in turn greatly reduces the torsional vibration of the shafting.
Use of electronic devices in leisure time modifies the prevalence and factors associated with sedentary behavior derived exclusively from excessive television viewing among Brazilian adults
Authors: Bertuol Cecília , Silveira Murilo Henrique Corrêa , Krug Rodrigo de Rosso , Kupske Juliedy Waldow , Mielke Grégore Iven , Duca Giovani Firpo Del
Published: June 2023

The growing interest in the study of sedentary behavior is justified by its increasing presence in people's daily lives, particularly in leisure time. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and factors associated with sedentary behavior derived exclusively from TV time and from its combination with the time spent using other electronic devices among Brazilian adults (n = 52,443). This cross-sectional study used data from the Vigitel survey (2019), which included subjects ≥ 18 years old who resided in the capitals of the 26 Brazilian states and Federal District. High TV time (≥ 4 h/day), and its combination with computer, tablet, or cell phone use (≥ 4 h/day), as well as sociodemographic, behavioral, and health characteristics were self-reported. Adjusted logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The prevalence of high sedentary behavior almost tripled when TV viewing was added to the time spent using other electronic devices (from 12.2%; 95%CI: 11.6; 12.8, to 34.7%; 95%CI: 33.8; 35.6), notably among the youngest (32.0 percentage points). Individuals living without a partner, who smoked, consumed alcohol and processed foods excessively, were physically inactive, and had hypertension were more likely to have both outcomes than their counterparts. Older and less educated individuals were more likely to spend excessive time watching TV and less likely to have high use of other electronic devices in addition to TV viewing than their peers. Including computer, tablet, or cell phone led to an increase in the prevalence of high sedentary behavior. The magnitude and direction of the associations of age and education with high sedentary behavior varied according to the method how high sedentary behavior was defined. Projects, programs, and policies must consider the different indicators of sedentary behavior in monitoring and promoting a healthier lifestyle.