bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A patient with concurrent endobronchial leiomyoma and uterine leiomyoma: A case report
Authors: Wang Zilin , Hou Gang
Published: October 2023

Background: Benign endobronchial tumors are uncommon, accounting for 2% of all pulmonary tumors. Primary endobronchial leiomyomas are extremely rare, accounting for approximately 0.66% of all benign pulmonary tumors.
Case presentation: In this report, we describean uncommon case of a female patient with concurrent endobronchial and uterine leiomyomas who underwent radial endobronchial ultrasound, electrocautery snaring, and argon plasma coagulation for bronchoscopic resection of the endobronchial lesion.
Conclusions: Primary endobronchial leiomyomas are rare and diagnosed based on the pathological results, which excluded malignant lung cancer and other spindle-cell tumors. A differential diagnosis of BML could not be ignored in this patient because of her history of uterine leiomyoma.
Correlation among occupational stress, job burnout and depressive symptoms in 2,083 manufacturing workers of China
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Chen Huiqing , Liao Xiqing , Huang Manqi , Liu Xiaoman , Guo Yao , Chen Jiabin , Li Shuang
Published: October 2023

Background
This study aims to investigate the correlation among occupational stress, job burnout, and depressive symptoms in manufacturing workers of China.
Methods
A total of 2,083 workers from two manufacturing enterprises in Beijing and four manufacturing enterprises in Guangdong Province were selected as study subjects using judgment sampling method. The occupational stress, job burnout, and depression symptoms were accessed using the Core Occupational Stress Measurement Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey and Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale.
Results
A total of 2,311 questionnaires were distributed, and 2,083 valid questionnaires were collected, with a valid questionnaire recovery rate of 90.1%. The average score of occupational stress among the study subjects was 45.0, and the detection rate of occupational stress was 29.5% (615/2,083). The average score of job burnout was 1.8, and the detection rate of job burnout was 55.8% (1,163/2,083). The average score of depressive symptoms was 6.0, and the detection rate was 15.7% (327/2,083). The depression symptom scores of the study subjects were positively correlated with the organization and reward dimensions, the demand and effort dimensions of occupational stress, and the emotional exhaustion and depersonalization dimensions of job burnout (rS were 0.299, 0.266, 0.648 and 0.637, respectively, all P < 0.01). They were negatively correlated with the dimension scores of social support and autonomy in occupational stress, and low personal sense of achievement sense in job burnout (rS were-0.254, །0.019and །0.138, respectively, all P < 0.01). The four dimensions of occupational stress explained 15.9% of variation in depressive symptoms (P < 0.01). The inclusion of the three dimensions of job burnout on the above basis could explain 29.3% of the variation in depressive symptoms (P < 0.01).
Conclusions
Occupational stress among 2,083 manufacturing workers in China not only affected job burnout, but also indirectly affected depressive symptoms. Reducing their occupational stress and job burnout levels could help alleviate their depressive symptoms.
Causal association between type 2 diabetes and risk of pulmonary tuberculosis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cui Kunping , Teng Xiangnan , Feng Shuang , Xu Shanling , Bai Lang
Published: October 2023

Objective: This study examined whether T2D is causally associated with the risk of PTB.
Methods: Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) were performed using a Mendelian randomization (MR)-based platform. We used publicly available summary statistics datasets from GWAS meta-analyses of T2D in individuals of East Asian descent (n = 191764) as the exposure and a GWAS dataset for PTB included in Biobank Japan (n = 212453) as the outcome. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using the inverse variance-weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger regression methods was performed to examine the causal relationship between T2D and PTB risk.
Results: We selected 81 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with genome‐wide significance from GWASs on T2D as the instrumental variables. Consistent associations between T2D and PTB were observed with all three methods, which suggests that T2D is positively associated with an increased risk of PTB. Moreover, the findings showed no evidence that the observed causal effect between T2D and the risk of PTB was affected by genetic pleiotropy (MR-Egger intercept = -0.024, P = 0.188).
Conclusion: MR analysis provided strong evidence indicating that T2D may be causally associated with an increased risk of PTB.
Investigating into microbiota in the uterine cavity of the unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion patients in early pregnancy
Authors: Bai Shiyu , Xu Guocai , Mo Hanjie , Qi Tianyuan , Fu Shuai , Zhu Liqiong , Huang Bingqian , Zhang Jianping , Chen Hui
Published: October 2023

Introduction
The majority of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) cases have been attributed to immune abnormalities. Inappropriate changes in microbiota could lead to immune disorders. However, the specific role of uterine cavity microbiota in URSA remains unclear, and only a limited number of related studies are available for reference.
Methods
We utilized double-lumen embryo transfer tubes to collect uterine cavity fluid samples from pregnant women in their first trimester. Subsequently, we conducted 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze the composition and abundance of the microbiota in these samples.
Results
For this study, we enlisted 10 cases of URSA and 28 cases of induced miscarriages during early pregnancy. Microbial communities were detected in all samples of the URSA group (100%, n = 10), whereas none were found in the control group (0%, n = 28). Among the identified microbes, Lactobacillus and Curvibacter were the two most dominant species.
Conclusions
This study revealed that during early pregnancy, Lactobacillus and Curvibacter were the predominant colonizers in the uterine cavity of URSA patients and were associated with URSA. Consequently, alterations in the dominant microbiota may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Mitochondrial respiratory function is strongly associated with progressive glaucomatous vision loss
Authors: Petriti Bledi , Rabiolo Alessandro , Chau Kai-Yin , Williams Pete , Montesano Giovanni , Lascaratos Gerassimos , Garway-Heath David
Published: October 2023

Intraocular pressure (IOP) has been the only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma. However, glaucoma develops with high IOP (high tension glaucoma; HTG) and normal IOP (normal tension glaucoma; NTG) and many lose vision despite IOP-lowering treatment, suggesting other factors confer susceptibility. We demonstrate that lymphocyte/monocyte mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate (OCR) is lower in glaucoma patients than in controls (P < 0.001), is lower in NTG than HTG (P < 0.01) and lower OCR is strongly associated with faster visual field (VF) progression in patients treated by lowering IOP (P < 0.001), explaining 13% of variance in the rate of progression. In a reference cohort of untreated glaucoma patents, IOP explained 16% of VF progression variance. Lymphocyte/monocyte nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels are lower in glaucoma patients (P < 0.001) and strongly associated with OCR (P < 0.001). Our results support mitochondrial OCR and NAD levels as new biomarkers for glaucoma progression susceptibility and new targets for treatment.
Mechanism of Cationic Lipid-Induced DNA Condensation: Lipid-DNA Coordination and Divalent Cation Charge Fluctuations
Authors: Kirmizialtin Serdal , He Weiwei
Published: October 2023

The condensation of nucleic acids by lipids is a widespread phenomenon in biology with crucial implications for drug delivery. However, due to the challenges in measuring and assessing the contribution of each component in the lipid-DNA-cation system, the intricate physical mechanisms underlying the assembly of DNAs in lipid bilayers remain insufficiently understood. Specifically, the role of divalent cations in the like-charge attraction of DNA pairs remains a topic of debate. This study utilizes all-atom molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations to investigate the condensation of DNA duplexes in cationic lipid bilayers. Our exhaustive exploration of the thermodynamic factors inducing DNA condensation reveals unique roles for phospholipid head groups and cations. We observed that bridging cations between the lipid head groups and DNA, drastically reduce DNA charges, while mobile magnesium cations ping-ponging between DNA double strands, create charge fluctuations. While the first factor stabilizes the DNA-lipid complex, the latter creates attractive forces to induce the condensation of DNA pairs. This novel mechanism not only sheds light on the current data regarding cationic lipid-induced DNA condensation but also provides potential design strategies for creating efficient gene delivery vectors for drug delivery.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals osteosarcoma microenvironment differences between chemotherapy and without chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Peigeng , Wu Hao , Yao Xiguan , Ye Dongping
Published: October 2023

Background: Osteosarcoma(OS) is considered to be the most common primary bone tumor in adolescents. Currently, the main treatment for osteosarcoma is a combined neoadjuvant chemotherapy-surgery-adjuvant chemotherapy model. Unfortunately, this effective treatment regimen appears to have entered a bottleneck over the past 10 years, and the key mechanisms and mysteries triggered by osteosarcoma before and after chemotherapy have not been elucidated. This study aims to investigate the effects of osteosarcoma microenvironment between chemotherapy and without chemotherapy.
Methods: We obtained data on 8 osteosarcoma cases that had undergone single-cell sequencing from a public database, including 4 cases each with and without chemotherapy. The single-cell expression profile of the degenerated nucleus pulposus was constructed by software analysis for cell filtering, data normalization, cell subcluster analysis, and cell type identification procedures, and marker genes for cell subclusters were obtained. The effects of different cell subclusters on the immune microenvironment of osteosarcoma with and without chemotherapy were further investigated by gene function analysis and pseudo time analysis.
Results: The 8 osteosarcoma cases contained a total of about 100,000 single cells, and after quality control screening, a total of 80,552 cells were obtained and 8 major cell types were identified for subsequent analysis. The osteoblastic OS cells had the highest proportion of the eight major cell types, followed by the myeloid cells, osteoclasts, the proliferative OS cells, T and NK cells, endothelial cells, macrophages, and osteoblasts. Moreover, compared with the non-chemotherapy group, the heterogeneity exhibited by the chemotherapy group was also mainly reflected in several cell clusters with a high proportion.
Conclusion: Revealed that oxidative phosphorylation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis are closely associated with anti-osteosarcoma deterioration, metastasis, and chemoresistance. In addition, hypoxia related genes (RGS5, CYGB, C1qtnf3) upregulated in chemotherapy have been found to be closely related to proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of osteosarcoma cells. MMP9 and MMP13 can indirectly promote tumor angiogenesis, and down-regulation of MMP9 and MMP13 may be one of the markers of prognosis in osteosarcoma patients. Downregulation of MHCI may lead to immune escape of tumor cells. Heat shock proteins (HSP) are involved in the activation and inhibition of osteosarcoma-associated pathways. These results present a deeper single-cell atlas of the tumor microenvironment for osteosarcoma and provide potential therapeutic targets for future treatment of osteosarcoma.
Association between physical activity patterns and quality of life in Japanese adults aged 85 to 89 years: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Muramatsu Yasuaki , Oguma Yuko , Abe Yukiko , Hara Azusa , Urushihara Hisashi , Arai Yasumichi
Published: October 2023

Background
Associations between physical activity (PA) and quality of life (QOL) are usually studied in people in their 60s and 70s, and little is known about them in older age groups.We evaluated the association between PA and QOL in Japanese adults aged 85-89 years and revealed the PA patterns in this population.
Methods
This cross-sectional study (n = 914) used baseline data from the Kawasaki Aging and Well-being Project (KAWP), a longitudinal cohort study of older adults aged 85-89 years. QOL was assessed using the EuroQoL 5D-5L (EQ-5D-5L) and the WHO Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5). PA was objectively and subjectively measured using a triaxial accelerometer and modified Zutphen Physical Activity Questionnaire, respectively. Associations were analyzed using multivariable regression analysis.
Results
The higher PA was significantly associated with a higher EQ-5D-5L index score (coefficient, 0.004; 95%CI, 0.001-0.008). In contrast, no association was observed between PA and the WHO-5 total score (coefficient, 0.103; 95%CI, -0.066-0.271). Calisthenics were the most commonly performed sports or exercises (27.4% of male and 47.6% of female participants). In the subgroup of participants with >median PA, the following sports/exercises were more frequently performed in addition to calisthenics; resistance trainingand others among male participants: stretching/yoga among female participants.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that PA is associated with a better health-related QOL; however, no association was observed between PA and psychological well-being in this population. More physically active older adults perform several types of sports and exercises in addition to calisthenics.
The Viral Warfare – Uncovering the Connection between Conspiracy Theories on COVID and the War in Ukraine
Authors: Krekó Peter , Orosz Gábor , Faragó Laura , Zsila Ágnes
Published: October 2023

During times of crisis, conspiracy theories tend to proliferate – especially in polarized political environments. Existing research has shown that both the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have spawned a surge in conspiracy theories. However, there is a notable gap in academic research concerning the interconnection between these two sets of conspiracy theories. Our preregistered representative survey study conducted in Hungary (N = 1000) investigates the interconnections between conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, and the moderating role of trust, conspiracy mentality, political preference, and socio-demographic variables in this relationship. Hungary, a nation marked by exceptionally high levels of tribal polarization, and plagued by pervasive disinformation presents an ideal case for examining the polarizing nature of conspiracy theories. Contrary to the prevailing notion that a generalized mistrust links unrelated conspiracy theories, the research finds that specific, logically unrelated conspiracy theories can be horizontally connected to each other. We found that conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and vaccines were strongly related to conspiracy theories about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This relationship persists independently of party preference, and neither mistrust in media nor Conspiracy Mentality can explain this relationship. Surprisingly, trust in domestic media positively predicted war-related conspiracy beliefs. These results, even if correlational, raise the possibility that conspiracy theories about COVID-19 (which preceded the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022) could serve as a "gateway theory," leading to the acceptance of war-related conspiracies. Our findings, in line with some previous research on “gateway theories” and the monological nature of conspiracy theories, suggest that communication interventions should address specific narratives rather than solely focusing on the “root cause” such as mistrust in institutions – which not always go hand in hand with conspiracy theorizing. Furthermore, building trust in official sources may worsen the problem in contexts where mainstream media spreads conspiracy theories. Thus, a nuanced, context-sensitive communication approach is essential in combating conspiracy theories effectively.
Elevated hair cortisol levels associated with cardiovascular risks in a large middle-aged Swedish population
Authors: FARESJÖ Åshild OLSEN , Theodorsson Elvar , Stomby Andreas , Quist Helena , Jones Michael P. , Östgren Carl Johan , Dahlqvist Per , Faresjö Tomas
Published: October 2023

In this population-based study of long-term stress exposure measured by hair cortisol (HCC), a cohort of 4 821 Swedish middle-aged people was analysed in relation to cardiovascular risks and diseases. The study shows that HCC was significantly associated with the major classical cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension and elevated cholesterol. Those with elevated HCC levels also had a significantly increased pre-history of myocardial infarction, Type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and coronary bypass surgery or PCI. Furthermore, HCC was strongly associated with risk markers like glucose levels, leukocytes, and high-sensitivity CRP, all with values above the reference intervals. These findings indicate a linkage between HCC and inflammation and the bodily immune defense. Altogether, these analyses of HCC in a large middle-aged population indicate that chronically elevated cortisol levels represent a relevant and significant factor associated with cardiovascular diseases and classical cardiovascular risk factors.
Dysphoric milk ejection reflex among Japanese mothers: A self-administered questionnaire survey
Authors: Moriyama Yukako , Nakao Yuko , Yamamoto Naoko , Oki Toshimichi
Published: October 2023

Background
The dysphoric milk ejection reflex (D-MER) is a reflexive symptom that causes temporary discomfort during milk ejection. D-MER is a symptom that develops due to the influence of hormones involved in lactation, and it has been reported that it is a physiological symptom different from postpartum depression, but the actual situation is often unknown even in Japan.
Methods
This study was conducted using a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire survey of mothers of children who had undergone health checkups at 3 years of age at five health centers in city A, and aimed to clarify the reality and perceptions of mothers regarding D-MER. The questionnaires were distributed to 389 mothers, and 216 (55.5% recovery rate) responses were received, of which 202 (valid response rate 93.5%) were included in the analysis.
Results
Regarding the experience of D-MER, mothers in the study population had given birth to a total of 403 children, and experienced D-MER when breastfeeding 62 (15.4%) of them. Among the 202 mothers included in the analysis, 47 (23.3%) answered that they had experienced D-MER at least once while breastfeeding. Sixty-six mothers (32.7%) knew about D-MER. Compared to those who had not experienced D-MER, those who had experienced D-MER had significantly higher scores on the items of having had trouble breastfeeding (odds ratio [OR]: 3.774, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.566–9.093, p = 0.003) and knowing about D-MER (OR: 2.409, 95% CI: 1.199–4.841, p = 0.014). Regarding symptoms, irritability (n = 24, 51.1%), anxiety (n = 22, 46.8%), and sadness (n = 18, 38.3%) ranked high. Coping strategies included distraction, focusing on the child, and in some cases cessation of breastfeeding. Thirty mothers (63.8%) answered that they did not consult anyone when they experienced D-MER, citing reasons such as no one would likely understand their symptoms and they could not sufficiently explain their symptoms.
Conclusion
The low level of awareness of D-MER suggests that it is necessary to inform and educate mothers and the public about the physiological symptoms of D-MER. Moreover, it is necessary to listen to the feelings of mothers with D-MER at the onset of symptoms and support them in coping with their symptoms.
Exogenous melatonin enhanced cadmium stress tolerance of cucumber seedlings (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Kang Xin , Pei Zi-Qi , Xu Ting-Ting , Dong Cui-Yun , Bai Xue , Wang Juan , Zheng Sheng , Zhang Teng-Guo
Published: October 2023

Melatonin (MT) is a phytohormone that can improve plant stress resistance by regulating physiological processes and gene expression. The present study investigated the role of exogenous MT in alleviating cadmium (Cd) stress in cucumber seedlings. The results showed that Cd stress inhibited the growth of cucumber seedlings and exogenous MT reversed adverse effects of Cd stress. Compared with Cd treatment, MT + Cd treatment enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, suppressed ROS production and improved photosynthesis in cucumber seedlings. Further research showed that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO) played important roles in MT enhanced Cd stress tolerance in cucumber seedlings. RNA-seq results indicated that MT was not only related to photosynthetic and antioxidant systems in alleviating Cd injury in cucumber seedlings, but also various phytohormones, heavy metal transporter proteins and transcription factors were also involved. In addition, we selected six differentially expressed genes for qRT-PCR validation, the verification results were consistent with the RNA-seq results. In summary, exogenous MT pretreatment can alleviate Cd toxicity by enhancing antioxidant defense capacity and photosynthetic efficiency of cucumber seedlings, both H2O2 and NO play important roles. In addition, various phytohormones, transcription factors and heavy metal transport proteins are also involved in this regulation of MT.
Convection-permitting climate models offer more certain extreme rainfall projections
Authors: Fosser Giorgia , Gaetani Marco , Kendon Elizabeth , Adinolfi Marianna , Ban Nikolina , Belušić Danijel , Caillaud Cécile , Careto João , Coppola Erika , Demory Marie-Estelle , de Vries Hylke , Dobler Andreas , Feldmann Hendrik , Goergen Klaus , Lenderink Geert , Pichelli Emanuela , Schaer Christoph , Soares Pedro , Somot Samuel , Tölle Merja
Published: October 2023

Extreme precipitation events leads to dramatic impacts on society and the situation will worsen under climate change1. Decision-makers need reliable estimates of future changes as a basis for effective adaptation strategies, but projections at local scale from regional climate models (RCMs) are highly uncertain2. Here we exploit the first km-scale convection-permitting model (CPM) ensemble to provide new understanding of the changes in local precipitation extremes and related uncertainties over the greater Alpine region. The CPM ensemble shows a stronger increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme events than the driving RCM ensemble, during the summer when convection dominates. We find that the CPM ensemble substantially reduces the model uncertainties and their contribution to the total uncertainties of more than 50%. We conclude that the more realistic representation of local dynamical processes in the CPMs provides more reliable and less uncertain local estimates of change essential for policymakers.
Evaluating a peer-to-peer health education program in Australian public housing communities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Oliver Jane , Ferdinand Angeline , Hussein Awil , Hussein Ruqiyo , Kaufman Jessica , Edler Peta , Allard Nicole , Danchin Margie , Gibney Katherine B.
Published: October 2023

Background
The cohealth Health Concierge program operated in Melbourne, Australia from July 2020 to 30 June 2022. It provided peer-to-peer support to culturally and linguistically diverse residents of high-rise public housing. During this time, the COVID-19 public health response changed frequently and included movement restriction, testing and vaccination. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation to determine the Health Concierge program’s impact on residents’ engagement with health services and public health activities.
Methods
The evaluation, informed by a Project Reference Group, used the RE-AIM framework. We analysed data from 20,901 routinely collected forms describing interactions between Concierges and residents from August 2021 to May 2022. Additional evaluation-specific data were collected between March and May 2022 in four housing estates; we surveyed 301 residents and conducted 32 interviews with residents, Concierges and program stakeholders.
Results
Concierges promoted COVID-safe behaviours; linked residents with support, testing and vaccination services; and disseminated up-to-date information. Of the 20,901 recorded interactions, 8,872 (42%) included Concierges providing support around COVID-19 vaccination. Most surveyed residents (191/301, 63%) reported speaking with a Concierge in the previous six months. The self-reported two-dose COVID-19 vaccine uptake was 94% (283/301). Some residents described having meaningful, appreciated conversations with Health Concierges, and some described superficial interactions. While residents initially welcomed the program, many felt it failed to evolve. Poorly defined management and hiring criteria led to variable program implementation. A need for bicultural workers to continue linking residents with services was discussed.
Conclusions
Concierges’ impact on residents may have contributed to high community uptake of COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and had benefits beyond the COVID-19 remit. We recommend the program be revised and continued, to inform further preparedness planning and support service access generally. Program models such as this have potential to inform and reassure high-risk communities during a pandemic. In addition, such programs can help overcome vaccine hesitancy and promote protective health behaviours, regardless of whether a pandemic is currently occurring. Ensuring these programs remain responsive to the changing needs of end-users needs over time is imperative.
Large-scale analysis of small molecule-RNA interactions using multiplexed RNA structure libraries
Authors: Nagatsugi Fumi , Nagasawa Ryosuke , Onizuka Kazumitsu , Komatsu Kaoru , Miyashita Emi , Murase Hirotaka , Ojima Kanna , Ishikawa Shunya , Ozawa Mamiko , Saito Hirohide
Published: October 2023

The large-scale analysis of small-molecule binding to diverse RNA structures is key to understanding the required interaction properties and selectivity for developing RNA-binding molecules toward RNA-targeted therapies. Here, we report a new system for performing the large-scale analysis of small molecule–RNA interactions using a multiplexed pull-down assay with RNA structure libraries. The system profiled the RNA-binding landscapes of G-clamp and thiazole orange derivatives (TO and TO-3), which recognizes an unpaired guanine base and are good probes for fluorescent indicator displacement (FID) assays, respectively. Based on the information obtained from the bindings of TO and TO-3, we selected the combinations of fluorescent indicators and drug-targetable pre-miRNAs and screened for RNA-binding molecules using FID. Four hit compounds were identified, and three of them were validated. Our system provides fundamental information about small molecule–RNA interactions and facilitates the discovery of novel RNA-binding molecules.
Study on Coupled Mode Flutter Parameters of Large Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Zhuang Yong , Yuan Guangming
Published: October 2023

As the output power of wind turbines continues to increase, the blade size and flexibility increase. In actual operation, unpredictable airflow caused by natural changes in wind speed leads to aeroelastic instability of the blade structure, increasing the possibility of blade flutter damage. Under the same design, different manufacturing processes result in different structural performance of blades. The parameter changes in different regions of the blade will have an impact on the flutter characteristics of the blade coupling mode. Taking NREL 5MW wind turbine blades as an example, the blades are divided into tip, middle, and root regions to study the influence of structural parameter changes in different regions on blade flutter characteristics. Research has found that the flutter characteristics are most affected by parameter changes in the blade tip region; as the waving stiffness increases, the flutter velocities in all three areas of the blade decrease and tend to stabilize; the blade flutter speed increases with the increase of torsional stiffness; the blade flutter speed is least affected by the centroid shift, but is more affected by the centroid shift in the tip region; The turning radius is inversely proportional to the blade flutter frequency and flutter speed. In blade anti flutter design, increasing the torsional frequency can effectively prevent the occurrence of blade coupling mode flutter.
Mental health and professional outcomes in parents of children with chronic kidney disease
Authors: De Bruyne Elke , Eloot Sunny , Willem Lore , Hoeck Koen Van , Walle Johan Vande , Raes Ann , Biesen Wim Van , Goubert Liesbet , Hoecke Eline Van , Snauwaert Evelien
Published: October 2023

Background
This study evaluated stress, anxiety and depression symptoms and their associated factors in parents of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Methods
This cross-sectional study compared parents of CKD patients (0–18 years) with a matched control group of parents of healthy children. Both groups completed the Parenting Stress Index – Short Form, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and a sociodemographic questionnaire.
Results
The study group consisted of 45 parents (median age 39; 32 mothers) of CKD patients (median age 8; 36% female). Nearly 75% of children had CKD stage 2, 3, or 4, and 44.5% had congenital anomaly of the kidney and urinary tract. Five children (11%) were on dialysis, and 4 (9%) had a functioning kidney graft. Compared with parents of healthy children, more stress and anxiety symptoms were reported. Since the CKD diagnosis, 47% of parents perceived a deterioration of their own health, and 40% reduced work on a structural basis. Higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression symptoms were associated with a more negative perception of own health, and more child medical comorbidities and school absence.
Conclusions
This study showed higher levels of stress and anxiety symptoms in parents of children with CKD compared with parents of healthy children. This was associated with a less positive perception of the own health, especially if the child had more medical comorbidities or more absence from school. Psychosocial interventions to reduce the parental burden should be integrated in the standard care of pediatric nephrology departments.
A new strategy in developing antifouling membranes: pulling out carrots and mud coming with
Authors: Zhao Jian , Piao Hongwei , Zhuang Xupin , Zhang Shujie , Huang Qinglin , Xiao Changfa , Liu Shaomin
Published: October 2023

Membrane filtration is a promising solution to solve the fresh water scarcity issue and wastewater remediation; however, the fouling problem cannot be avoided. Antifouling and effective cleaning are the key methods to recover the membrane performance and achieve the stable filtration; whereas it is a great challenge to realize the harmless defouling or to reduce frequent replacement of membrane units. In this work, a breakthrough concept of “fouling-detachable” composite membrane consisting of tubular magnetic membrane body (polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane reinforced by magnetic polyester braided tube, MTNM) encapsulated by the magnetic photocatalyst (Fe3S4) layer was proposed. As expected, the detachable Fe3S4 layer can efficiently inhibit the severe deposition of foulants via the fantastic magnetic detachable feature. The porous magnetic Fe3S4 is a multifunctional catalyst, which can also be used for photocatalysis or peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to induce rich reactive oxygen species (ROS) for various organic pollutant degradation. Our study provides a new universal strategy for membrane design by coupling magnetic properties and catalysis with microfiltration to achieve ultrahigh antifouling property and maintain water flux.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Mixed Lubrication under the action of magnetic ionic liquid additives
Authors: Liu Ze , Yan Zhijun , Wu Shibo , Sun Haocheng , Zhang Shengwei
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the tribological characteristics of an oil-soluble magnetic fluid additive under mixed lubrication are studied by experiments and numerical simulation. [bmim][FeCl4] is dissolved in CF10W-40 lubricating oil as a magnetic liquid additive, and its friction coefficient is tested by a point contact friction tester at different temperatures, rotational speeds and magnetic field intensities. The transition condition of lubrication state is obtained through analyzing the Stribeck curves based on the experiments, and the strength model of boundary film is established accordingly. A mixed lubrication model is established by substituting the boundary film strength model and the surface roughness model into the hydrodynamic lubrication model based on Reynolds equation. The results show that the magnetic solution as an additive can obviously reduce friction and wear, and the effect is more obvious under the condition of magnetic field. The boundary film strength model can accurately reflect the transition characteristics of lubrication state in the presence of boundary film, and the mixed lubrication model based on boundary film strength model can more precisely reflect the tribological characteristics of friction pairs, so this study provides a new theoretical method for the related research on the influence of boundary film on lubrication characteristics.
Outbreak of equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4) in Denmark: tracing patient zero and viral characterization
Authors: Ryt-Hansen Pia , Johansen Victoria Kyhl , Cuicani Marta Maria , Larsen Lars Erik , Hansen Sanni
Published: October 2023

Background: Equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4) causes respiratory disease in horses, and the virus is considered endemic in the global equine population. However, outbreaks can occur when several horses are gathered in relation to shows, competitions, breeding units and at hospitals. In the spring year 2022, an EHV-4 outbreak occurred at the Large Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Nine horses were tested EHV-4 positive during the outbreak, which lasted approx. seven weeks. In addition, a tenth horse “Eq10” tested EHV-4 positive almost three weeks after the last of the outbreak horses tested positive. Detailed clinical registrations were obtained from all ten horses as well as their location and movement during hospitalization. Nasal swabs were obtained throughout the outbreak and tested by real-time qPCR for EHV-4. Additionally, pre- and post-infection sera were tested for the presence of EHV-4 antibodies. Selected samples were characterized by partial and full genome sequencing.
Results: The most common clinical signs of the EHV-4 infected horses during this outbreak were pyrexia, nasal discharge, mandibular lymphadenopathy and increased lung sounds upon auscultation. Based on the locations of the horses, EHV-4 detection and antibody responses the most likely “patient zero” was identified as being “Eq1”. Partial genome sequencing revealed that Eq10 was infected by another wild type EHV-4 strain, suggesting that the hospital was able to eliminate the outbreak by testing and reinforcing biosecurity measures. The complete genome sequence of the outbreak strain was obtained and revealed a closer relation to Australian and Japanese EHV-4 strains rather than to other European EHV-4 strains.
Conclusion: The study illustrated the transmission of EHV-4 within an equine facility/hospital and provided new insights into the viral shedding, antibody responses and clinical signs related to EHV-4 infections. Finally, sequencing proved a useful tool in understanding the transmission within the hospital, and in characterizing of the outbreak strain.
Uterine Fibroids allied protein lockage; An endpoint for medicinal compounds target via the computer-aided route to evade myomectomy
Authors: Olowosoke Christopher Busayo , Eze Chioma Joy , Munir Aqsa , Dada Olusola Olatunde , Omolabake Kehinde Esther , Oke Grace Ayomide , Ibisanmi Tope Abraham
Published: October 2023

Beyond the pains of pregnancy, miscarriages and other child-bearing risks associated with the pride of motherhood, Uterine fibroids (UFs) are another significant reproductive age detriment in women’s health. These tumours are often challenging to detect in the early stage until they become large outgrowth which always requires surgical removal to mitigate risks. However, with the understanding of alteration in the complex signalling pathways, specific proteins connected in this rapid outgrown have been identified, and some studies have been reported on dietary phytochemicals’ potency to halt the growth. Consequently, this computer-aided study explores this class of phytochemicals as inhibitors of five specific UFs targets (estrogen receptor protein (ESR), epidermal growth factor receptor protein (EGFR), insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), progesterone receptor (PGR), and Yes1 Associated protein (YAP1)). During the screening, the gene-disease association revealed a correlation between these proteins to six reproductive conditions including UFs with a 0 to 1 evidence index. The molecular docking and molecular mechanics’ free energy combined with Generalized Born and surface area showed comparable close points in the regression line supporting the binding affinity of dietary phytochemicals to the mapped proteins’ active site. Overall, more than 50% of the phytochemicals exhibit good pharmacokinetic, drug-likeness and ADMET profiles as compared to the standard drugs and co-ligands. Hence, their PASS bioactivity supports anti-cancer potential with a good Pa > Pi ratio, and they have stable and less reactivity from the quantum mechanical calculation. Ultimately, these phytochemicals are proposed for further experimental evaluation for efficacy in managing and treating UFs.
Developing a prediction model for HELLP syndrome through data mining
Authors: Farajollahi Boshra , Sayadi Mohammadjavad , Langarizadeh Mostafa , Ajori Ladan
Published: October 2023

Background
HELLP syndrome represents three complications of hemolysis, increased liver enzymes, and low platelet count. Since the causes and pathogenesis of HELLP syndrome are not yet fully known and well understood, distinguishing it from other pregnancy-related disorders is complicated. Furthermore, late diagnosis leads to a delay in treatment, which challenges the disease management. In this paper we aimed to present a machine learning attitude for diagnosing of HELLP syndrome based on non-invasive parameters.
Method
We conducted this cross-sectional study on 384 patients in Tajrish Hospital, Tehran, Iran, during 2010–2021 in four stages. In the first stage data elements were identified using literature review and Delphi method. Then patient records were gathered and in the third stage the dataset was preprocessed and prepared for modelling. Finally, machine learning models including network-based algorithms (Multilayer Perceptron, Deep Learning), ensemble algorithms (Random Forest and Adaboost) and classic algorithms (Decision Tree, Support Vector Machine and K-Nearest Neighbor) were implemented and their evaluation metrics were compared.
Results
21 variables were included in this study after the first stage. Among all the machine learning algorithms MLP and Deep Learning had the best performance with the F1-Score of more than 99%. Based on the modeling output, some variables such as Platelet, Gestational-age, and ALT, were found to be the most important on diagnosis of HELLP syndrome.
Conclusion
This study showed that machine learning algorithms can be used very successfully in the development of HELLP syndrome diagnosis models. This study also showed that Biomarker features have the greatest impact on the diagnosis of HELLP syndrome.
Efficacy and safety of Chinese Herbal Medicine (Shugan-Hewei Decoction) combined with vonoprazan for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: A study protocol for a Double-Blind Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Qinwei , Han Ming , Zhang Mengyuan , Zhang Nan , Li Jingjing , Xu Tingting , Wang Yi , Wang Hongwei , Fang Shengquan
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
Refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD) therapy is always lack of effective treatment in recent medical procedures. The potassium-competitive acid blocker (PCAB) vonoprazan has greater potency of acid inhibition than PPIs. The Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) Shugan-Hewei Decoction (SHD) has also demonstrated its efficacy in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, but data on its efficacy combined with vonoprazan for rGERD are limited. This trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SHD combined with vonoprazan in the treatment of rGERD.
Methods and analysis:
This is a pilot, randomized, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled, multi-center clinical trial. A total of 124 participants will be allocated to the SHD group and control group randomly. The SHD group will receive SHD granules with vonoprazan (20mg/day). The control group will receive vonoprazan (20mg/day) plus an SHD granule placebo. Each group will be treated for 8 weeks. The primary outcome of the study is the score of the gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life questionnaire (GERD-Q). Secondary outcomes include healing rate, Acid exposure time (AET), oesophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM), frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD (FSSG), evaluation criteria of TCM syndrome efficacy, SF-36 quality of life scale (SF-36) and somatization symptom checklist (SSS). This trial aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of SHD combined with vonoprazan in the treatment of rGERD.
Ethics and dissemination:
This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of Human Research of Yueyang Hospital (approval number:2022-050). We will report the results of this study in a peer-reviewed journal and academic conference.
Trial registration: ChiCTR2200061651, Registered 30 June 2022, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=171492
Ophthalmological signs and sensorimotor evaluation in mitochondrial diseases: a multidisciplinary prospective study
Authors: Savino Gustavo , Giannuzzi Federico , Cima Valentina , Brando Davide , Fossataro Claudia , Servidei Serenella , Savastano Maria Cristina , Primiano Guido
Published: October 2023

Background. Primary mitochondrial myopathies (PMM) are disorders that involve defects in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and impair mainly, but not exclusively, skeletal muscles. Progressive external ophthalmoplegia (PEO), eyelid ptosis, exercise intolerance and skeletal muscle weakness are the most common symptoms of myopathy in mitochondrial diseases, impairing ocular motility and visual abilities.
Methods. Twenty-five patients underwent complete ophthalmological examination, including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ptosis evaluation, dilated fundus examination, and orthoptic examinations, including cover and cover-uncover test, ocular motility analysis, fusional amplitude (FA) vergence for near and for distance, Bagolini striated glasses test (BSGs) and Worth four-dot lights test (WFDT).
Results. Mean age at evaluation was of 47,2±16.07 years. Twenty-two (88%) out of 25 patients had a PEO disease, while three (12%) of them a Kearn-Sayre syndrome (KSS). Ocular motility impairment was found in 92% of the population. Fifteen patients (60%) didn’t complain of double vision in casual seeing condition despite some of them showed manifest strabismus both at far (53%) and at near (60%). A compensation sensorial mechanism, mainly suppression, was detected through sensory tests. The near and distance fusional capabilities in convergence and in divergence (CFAs and DFAs) were absent in 68 and 72% of the whole sample respectively. PEO manifests at an older age than KSS (p=0.003), diplopia does not correlate with disease duration (p=0.06) and no predictive factors for diplopia can be identified.
Conclusions. A significant number of patients not complaining of double vision in casual seeing state showed manifest or latent/manifest strabismus at FAoD and NAoD. Most strabismic patients had a monocular suppression or alternate diplopia and suppression at sensory tests (BSGs and WFDT). The pathophysiology of these sensory adaptations in an adult visual system can only be hypothesized. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for proper clinical management and to analyze an understand clinical features pathogenesis.
The effectiveness of surfactant in enhancing the thermophysical properties of MWCNTs/crude oil nanofluid in the EOR process
Authors: Bagheri Hamid , Mousavi Seyed Borhan , Nami Shamin Hosseini , Heris Saeed Zeinali
Published: October 2023

This research delved into the effects of introducing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) into crude oil with an anionic base, aiming to enhance its thermophysical attributes in the EOR process. The investigation encompassed a range of properties, including interfacial tension, viscosity, density, and electrical conductivity, measured using an LV rheometer with spindle 18. Various ratios of MWCNTs and SDS were mixed with the crude oil to evaluate their impacts. The study uncovered that the 1:1 ratio of MWCNTs to SDS achieved a noteworthy 10% reduction in interfacial tension while minimally affecting viscosity, showing promise for practical applications. Temperature had diverse effects on viscosity and interfacial tension, displaying fluctuating trends. The highest observed result was a substantial 190% viscosity increase at 40°C with a 2:1 ratio, whereas the lowest was a slight − 0.81% density change at 60°C for the 1:1 ratio. Additionally, interfacial tension consistently decreased over time for all ratios at various temperatures, with the most significant reductions observed at 40°C and 60°C, particularly for the 1:2 and 1:1 ratios. Furthermore, adding MWCNTs and SDS led to a remarkable drop in electrical conductivity, indicating a substantial decrease in salt content within the crude oil. However, it was noted that higher MWCNT concentrations might not be cost-effective, emphasizing the importance of optimizing additive ratios for a balance between performance and economic viability. This study highlights the potential of tailored nanofluid formulations to improve the thermophysical properties of crude oil, potentially enhancing extraction and refining processes.