bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between the Proinflammatory Cytokine IL-17F and Helicobacter Pylori Infection in a Sample of Iraqi Patients
Authors: Malik Anas Wisam , Abood Ali Abas , Mohammad Sarmad Qassim
Published: June 2023

Background: Infection of the gastric mucosa with Helicobacter pylori (Hp) is characterized by the induction of a number of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-8, IL-6, and TNF-α, involved in Hp-related gastric inflammation. The functions of members of the IL-17 cytokine family, other than IL-17A, in Hp infection remain understudied. The aim of our study was to assess the association between the proinflammatory cytokine IL-17F and Hp infection in a sample of Iraqi patients. Methods and Results: This study included 50 Iraqi patients (18 males and 32 females; a mean age of 36±1.74 years) infected with Hp. The healthy control group consisted of 16 subjects (3 males and 13 females), with a mean age of 31±2.44 years. For the qualitative detection of antibodies (IgG, IgM, and IgA) against Hp in the serum, we used the OnSite H. pylori Ab Combo Rapid Test (CTK Biotech). ELISA was used to detect levels of human IL-17F in serum using ABTS ELISA Development Kit (Pepro Tech, USA). The serum level of IL-17F in patients with Hp infection was significantly higher than in the control group (238.9±7.64 pg/mL vs. 114.00±3.66 pg/mL, P=0.0001). However, the serum level of IL-17F in Hp patients was not significantly different between men and women (237±12.12 pg/mL and 239±9.94 pg/mL, respectively, P=0.9015). In addition, no significant difference was found between age subgroups: 240±13.18 pg/mL, 231±10.17 pg/mL, and 252±18.35 pg/mL in age subgroups of <30 years, 30-45 years, and >45 years, respectively, (P>0.05). Conclusion: Patients infected with Hp were characterized by higher serum levels of IL-17F than non-Hp subjects. IL-17F plays an important role in the inflammatory response to Hp infection in a sample of Iraqi patients.
Toward Sustainable Road Infrastructure Through Production of Nega-Resources
Authors: Zhukouski Ya. M. , Kravchenko S. E. , Shehova N. V.
Published: June 2023

The paper deals with the actual problem of achieving sustainable development, through ensuring the sustainability of certain sectors of the national economy, in particular the road sector. The concept of “sustainable development” has been revealed and the steps to achieve it in the Republic of Belarus today have been assessed. In addition, an attempt has been made to substantiate the impact of the sustainability of the road sector, as an integral and connecting part of economic entities on the sustainable development of countries and regions. The influence of the road sector on the elements of sustainable development is considered and its further prospects are assessed. For this, it is proposed to consider the impact of road construction at various structural levels: mega-, meso-, macro- and micro-level, which affect all aspects of the road economy, such as design, construction, maintenance and repair, production of building materials and products. The possibility of implementing the concept of nega-resources in the road sector is considered. Nega-resources are understood as such potential resources that are formed as a result of improving the processes of handling the final product by rationalizing its consumption, as well as with initial resources by optimizing individual stages of the production and logistics cycles. A market for nega-resources could be created following the example of the existing market for emissions allowances under the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Climate Agreement. The road sector today has many promising technologies, the use of which generates a larger amount of nega-resources. So taking into account nega-resources in the life cycle of transport facilities, as well as creating a system of material incentives based on nega-resources, will ensure the sustainability of road construction, and at the same time the sustainable development of the country and the region as a whole.
Optimized Calcium-Phosphate based co-transfection of TAU and tdTomato into human iPSC-derived neurons for the study of intracellular distribution of wildtype and mutant human TAU.
Authors: Lilis Panagiotis , Kabbani Mohamed Aghyad Al , Zempel Hans
Published: June 2023

The study of TAU protein in disease-relevant neuronal cells in culture requires efficient delivery systems for transfection of exogenous TAU and also modulators and interactions of TAU. Transfection of cultivated cells using calcium phosphate precipitation is a simple and cost-effective approach, also for difficult-to-transfect and sensitive cells such as primary neurons. Because of its low cell toxicity and ease of use, the Ca2+-phosphate transfection method is one of the most widely used gene transfer procedures in neuroscience. However, Ca2+-phosphate transfection efficacy in neurons is poor, often in the range of 1–5%, limiting its use in functional investigations. Here, we outline our improved Ca2+-phosphate transfection methodology for human iPSC-derived neurons that yields a reasonable efficiency (20-30% for bright volume markers) without apparent effects on cell health. We have used it to introduce wildtype and mutant human TAU with and without co-transfection of a volume marker (used here: tdTomato). In sum, our procedure can deliver neuronal genes (e.g. MAPT) using typical eukaryotic expression vectors (e.g. using CMV promoter), and is optimized for transfection of human iPSC-derived neurons.
Sequential Glycosylations at the Multibasic Cleavage Site of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Regulate Viral Activation, Assembly, and Infection
Authors: Wang Shengjun , Ran Wei , Sun Lingyu , Fan Qingchi , Zhao Yuanqi , Wang Bowen , Yang Jinghong , He Yuqi , Wu Ying , Wang Yuanyuan , Chen Luoyi , Chuchuay Arpaporn , Zhu Xinhai , Wang Yanqun , chen Yao-Qing , Yuan Yanqiu , Zhao Jincun , Mao Yang
Published: June 2023

The multibasic furin cleavage site at the S1/S2 boundary of the spike protein (S protein) is a hallmark of SARS-CoV-2 and is essential for its increased infectivity. O-glycosylation near the furin site catalyzed by host cell glycosyltransferases can theoretically hinder spike protein processing and impede viral infection, but so far such hypothesis has not been tested with authentic viruses. The mechanism for furin activation is not clearly understood either. Here in this study, we discovered that GalNAc-T3 and T7 together initiate clustered O-glycosylations in the multibasic S1/S2 boundary region, which inhibits furin processing of the spike protein and surprisingly suppresses the incorporation of S protein into virus-like-particles (VLPs). Mechanistic analysis revealed that the assembly of spike protein into VLPs relies on protein-protein interaction between the furin-cleaved S protein and a double aspartic motif on the membrane protein of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting a novel mechanism for furin activation of S protein. Interestingly, a point mutation at P681, found in the SARS-CoV-2 variants alpha and delta, resists the glycosylation by GalNAc-T3 and T7 and its inhibitory effect against furin processing. However, an additional mutation at N679 in the most recent omicron variant reverts this resistance, making it both prone to glycosylation in vitro and sensitive to the expression of GalNAc-T3 and T7 in human lung cells. Together, our results suggest a glycosylation-based defense mechanism of host cells against SARS-CoV-2 and reveal the host-pathogen interplay at this critical “battle field” as the virus first escapes and currently surrenders itself to the host cell glycosylation.
Dose-effect relationship of metaraminol before spinal anesthesia in preventing hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia in parturients undergoing cesarean section
Authors: Xue Xiaoli , Wang Jing , Zhu Chuling , Chen Xiaofen , Ma Simeng , Lin Zhoujin , Zhang Longxin , Zhou Min , Wei Ying
Published: June 2023

Objective:
To study the dose-effect relationship of metaraminol in preventing hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia in parturients undergoing cesarean section.
Methods:
One hundred and twenty-five parturients undergoing elective cesarean sections were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=25 each), metaraminol groups (PM1, PM2, PM3, PM4 and PM5). Metaraminol 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60μg·min-1 were intravenously infused before spinal anesthesia.
Effective prevention of hypotension was defined as the absence of hypotension during the period from the end of the administration of spinal anesthesia to the delivery of the fetus. The ED50, ED90, and 95% confidence intervals of metaraminol in preventing hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia were calculated by Probit analysis.
Results:
The ED50 and 95% confidence interval of metaraminol in preventing hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia were 46.52 (39.41-57.64) μg·min-1, and ED90 and 95% confidence interval were 97.10(77.17-157.49) μg·min-1. The incidence of hypotension and shivering decreased with the increase in the dose of metaraminol infused in the five groups (P<0.05). The incidence of reactive hypertension increased with the increase in the dose of metaraminol infused in the five groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion:
The ED50 and ED90 of metaraminol before spinal anesthesia in preventing spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension, in the patients undergoing cesarean section are 46.52 and 97.10μg·min-1, respectively.
In silico and in vitro study of the anti-tuberculous activity of Nigella sativa L. bioactive compounds
Authors: Khamjan Nizar A. , Tabassum Heena , Khan Elhan , Lohani Mohtashim , Haque Mazharul , Mohammed Bahja Siddig , Maguen Elsie V. , Farasani Abdullah , Ahmad Iffat Zareen
Published: June 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a deadly disease which killed 1.6 million people in the year 2021 as per the reports of WHO. The treatment of the disease becomes more difficult once drug resistant TB strains (MDR and XDR TB) develops and its co-infection with HIV AIDS. There is a serious need to investigate and develop novel, cost-effective and potent anti-TB drugs. There is a requirement for the evaluation of the herbal drugs by standard scientific methods so as to validate them for the treatment of diseases. In the quest for the effective treatment, the methanolic extract of N. sativa L. sprouts was studied for its efficacy against M. tuberculosis (H37Ra) by Middlebrook broth assay. It was highly active and inhibited the growth at a low concentration of 100µ g/ml upto day 14th in comparison to the control along with the positive fluorescence test of the strain. Furthermore, both compounds showed high drug likeliness and ADME characteristics with no toxicity for oral administration in in silico studies. Molecular docking and dynamics studies also showed that thymoquinone and thymol have a significant binding potential with stable binding interaction to inhibit the Mycobacterium protein function, affirming it as a potent ant-TB drug.
Explanted skull flaps after decompressive hemicraniectomy demonstrate relevant bone avitality. Is their reimplantation worth of the risk?
Authors: Gousias Konstantinos , Stricker Ingo , Hoyer Annika , Theocharous Theocharis , Rompf Csilla , Pranata Arthur , Tannapfel Andrea , Agrawal Rachit , Tischoff Iris
Published: June 2023

Objective Reimplantations of autologous skull flaps after decompressive hemicraniectomies (DH) are associated with dramatic high rates of postoperative bone flap resorption (BFR). In the context of our clinical trial DRKS00023283, we assessed histologically the cell viability of explanted bone flaps in certain periods of time after DH, in order to conclude whether precursors of BRF may be developed during their storage.Methods Skull bone flaps explanted during a DH between 2019 and 2020 for a vascular disease or traumatic brain injury were sterile stored in a freezer at either − 23°C or -80°C. After their thawing process, the skulls have been collected for histological investigations. Parameters of bone metabolism, namely PTH1 and OPG have been analyzed via immunohistochemistry. H&E stain was used to assess the degree of avital bone tissue, whereas the repeated assays were performed after 6 months.Results A total of 17 stored skull flaps (8–23°C; 9–80°C) were analyzed. Median age of our cohort was 70 years; 9 patients (53%) were male. Duration of cryopreservation varied between 2 and 17 months. Relevant degree of bone avitality has been observed in all skull flaps, which has been significantly increased at the repeated evaluation after 6 months (p < 0.001). Preservation at -23°C (p = 0.006) as well as longer time of storage (p < 0.001) have been identified as prognostic factors for higher rates of bone avitality in a linear mixed regression model.Conclusions Our novel finding shows a clear benefit from a storage at -80° C, which should be carefully considered for the future management and storage of explanted skull flaps. Our analysis further revealed a significant degree of bone avitality, a potential precursor of BFR, also in skull flaps stored for several weeks. To this end, we should reconsider whether the reimplantation of autologous skull flaps instead of synthetic skull flaps is still justified.
Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block in Elderly Patients Undergoing Total hip arthroplasty (THA): A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Wu Xin-wei , Shen Zhuo-er , Zhou Hong-mei , Li Qi
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with considerable postoperative pain among elderly patients. Erector spinae plane(ESP) block is a newly described plane block for post-surgical painmanagement. In this randomized controlled study, we evaluated the efficacy of ultrasound-guided ESP blocks combined with ropivacaine for reducing pain in elderly patients undergoing THA.
METHODS
Patients between 60 and 80 years of age with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I–III who were scheduled for THA surgery were screened for enrollment. A total of 50 patients were randomized to ESPB group (Group A) receiving ultrasound-guided ESP block and control group receiving no block intervention (Group B). All patients received general anesthesia for surgery. and we recorded their baseline mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate(HR), consumption of intraoperative and postoperative opioid, Numerical Rating Scale(NRS) scores, and postoperative adverse reactions during the perioperative period.
RESULTS
The primary outcome was postoperative pain measured by NRS scores. We found that NRS scores were significantly lower in Group A than in Group B in the recovery room and at postoperative 12 and 24 hours (P < 0.05). When the timeline was extended to 48 hours, the NRS scores were no significant difference between this two group(p > 0.05). MAP and HR during surgery but did not find any statistically significant differences between the two groups. The coefficient of variation (CV) of MAP and HR was lower in Group A than in Group B. Total remifentanil consumption in group A was significantly lower than group B. There was no significant difference in complications between these two groups.
CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound-guided ESP block can improve the stability of MAP and HR in older patients during the surgery, provide effective analgesia in the first 24h after surgery, and reduce opioid requirement, thereby improving the quality of recovery of elderly patients undergoing THA surgery.
Efficient frequency conversion of non-diffracting modes via four-wave mixing in rubidium vapor
Authors: VERMA ONKAR NATH , KANT NITI
Published: June 2023

We investigate the nonlinear frequency conversion of non-diffracting optical modes via non-degenerate four-wave mixing(FWM) process in rubidium vapor. In this process, two strong control fields and a weak probe field mutually interact via afour-level double-Λ type atomic system to produce a new frequency weak Stokes field which is a phase conjugate to probe. We show that any arbitrary mode such as Airy, Bessel, Mathieu, and Weber beams encoded initially in the spatial envelope of probe field are efficiently transferred to FWM Stokes field by satisfying the phase matching condition. Interestingly, we found that the transmitted intensity profiles of Stokes beam are identical to that of probe beam while phase profile is complimentary.The phase conjugation property of output beams is revealed by interfering them with a copropagating plane wave. We further found the fidelity in terms of structural similarity between two transmitted modes of about 99%, which substantiates the high efficiency of FWM process. The efficient transfer and frequency conversion of such diffraction-free beams may have potential applications in nonlinear optical and quantum technologies.
Using the PLS-SEM model to study the factors that affect the willingness of college students to pay for carbon offsets based on a TPB and NAM approach
Authors: Li Changyuan , Liu Xi , Zhang Zhuoya , Li Jiaxi , Zhang Wanxiong , Yang Xin
Published: June 2023

Human influence is very likely the main driver of global climate change according to IPCC AR6 report. Carbon offsets is a new ecological compensation mechanism created against the back-ground of global warming. As college students are an important group in society, the mecha-nism of their willingness to pay for carbon offsets (WTP) is worthy of study. In this study, an in-tegrated theoretical model TPB-NAM is constructed from the perspectives of personal subjective cognition based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the normative activation model (NAM). It also adds two variables, carbon offset cognition (COC) and climate change hazard perception (CCHP). The partial least-squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) was used to study the factors that affect the WTP of college students. The results show that COC, behavioral attitudes (BAs), subjective norms (SNs), perceived behavioral control (PBC), and personal norms (PNs) have significant positive impacts on college students' WTP. Among them, BAs have the greatest impact on WTP. PNs respectively plays an intermediary role in the four path of AC and SNs affecting BAs, as well as AC and SNs affect WTP. BAs also play a mediating effect in the influence of PNs affect WTP, which is the most obvious.
Edge-based Method for Phenotype Similarity: Enhancing Genetic Disease Diagnosis through Graph-based Representation and Analysis
Authors: Xu Yiteng , Xiong Xu , Xiao Rui
Published: June 2023

Background
The rapid development of high-throughput sequencing technology has revolutionized the diagnosis and understanding of genetic diseases. However, the complexity of clinical phenotypes and high genetic heterogeneity make identifying causative genes a daunting task. In this context, developing accurate and efficient methods to measure the similarity between phenotypes and infer genotype-phenotype associations is crucial for the timely diagnosis and proper management of patients with genetic disorders.
Results
In this study, we proposed an innovative edge-based approach, which we termed PhenoEdge, to measure phenotype similarity, which effectively considers the hierarchical structure of the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO). Our method demonstrated higher sensitivity than existing methods in both simulated patient datasets and an inhouse dataset of 385 patients with confirmed genetic diseases. Our method showed superior performance in the most clinically relevant simulated dataset containing noise and inaccuracies. Furthermore, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test on the local patient dataset revealed that the sensitivity of our method was significantly better than that of other methods, including the widely used Resnik and Gong methods.
Conclusion
Compared with five existing semantic similarity measures, the edge-based phenotype similarity measurement method demonstrated higher sensitivity and improved accuracy in identifying congenital diseases in clinical settings. This approach can enhance the efficiency of clinical practitioners and holds great promise for future clinical applications. However, further validation with a larger sample size or in real-world clinical scenarios is warranted to fully establish the method's robustness and generalizability.
What helps patients access web-based services in primary care? Free-text analysis of patient responses to the Di-Facto questionnaire
Authors: Khan Nada , Pitchforth Emma , Winder Rachel , Abel Gary , Clark Christopher E. , Cockcroft Emma , Campbell John
Published: June 2023

Background The National Health Service (NHS) and general practice are increasingly adopting digital services. These services can impact both positively and negatively upon patient experiences, but access to digital services is not equal amongst all groups. Within a wider project (the Di-Facto study) our team conducted a patient survey amongst English primary care practices to investigate patient views of what supports uptake and use of web-based services. This paper reports on the analysis of the free-text responses from the patient survey. Methods The Di-Facto patient survey was distributed to practices in eight clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in England between 2021–2022. We examined free-text responses to two questions relating to access to primary care web-based and support for web-based services. We used qualitative reflexive thematic analysis based on a six-stage process to analyse responses. Results Of the 3051 patients who responded to the Di-Facto survey, 2246 provided a free-text response. We present our findings in two major themes: systems and structures and their impact on use of web-based services, and ‘what works for me’, a description of how respondents described what worked, or did not work in terms of their interactions with web-based services. Respondents described how the technology, such as practice website design, confusion over multiple digital apps, data security and concerns about eConsult offerings impacted on use of web-based services. Respondents described practice level barriers, such as a lack of or inconsistent provision, which prevented optimal use of web-based services. Respondents described personal and technical barriers that impacted on their use of digital services, and described which web-based services worked well for them. Respondents felt that web-based services were not a replacement for face-to-face interactions with a doctor. Conclusions This analysis of free-text responses from a large patient survey highlights the system, practice, and person level barriers and facilitators to use of digital services in primary care. With an increasing push towards digital solutions in NHS primary care, practices should consider the design, rollout and communication of their web-based services to support patient access.
Efficacy of coagulation factor infusion combined with staged surgery in the treatment of moderate hemophilia A combined with kidney stone
Authors: Xu Wenfeng , Liu Deyun , Deng Yaoliang , Dai Yuzong , Guo Fuyou , Wang Xiang
Published: June 2023

Background
To date, there are few reports related to the treatment of patients with hemophilia combined with kidney stones, and there are no standardized treatment protocols for patients with hemophilia combined with kidney stones.
Case presentation:
This case report is of a 27-year-old male patient with hemophilia and left-sided renal calculi. He had severe back pain and bright red hematuria as a result of the disease. On urologic CT we found a left renal pelvic hematoma. The patient was treated with coagulation factors and staged surgery, and his kidney stones have now been cured.
Conclusions
Patients with hemophilia A are at high-risk for operation and the expense of transfusion of clotting factors is expensive, so strict indications for operation must be followed, otherwise operative treatment should be avoided. When dealing with patients with moderate hemophilia A combined with kidney stones, if they have ureteral obstruction, back pain, bright red hematuria, etc. If the patient's condition is good and medical conditions allow, operative treatment should be performed as soon as possible. If a patient has a pelvic hematoma and severe hematuria, in addition to the need to give the patient a clotting factor infusion, we can stage the surgery to reduce the risk of the associated surgery. The first period is to drain the pelvic hematoma to relieve the patient's hard and improve the patient's renal function, and also to prepare for the second period of lithotripsy. After the patient's general condition improves, then we can perform lithotripsy and try to remove the lithotripsy to reduce the bleeding caused by lithotripsy and ureteral stent.
The psychological experience of advanced maternal age raising a second child: a qualitative study
Authors: Ge Yurong , Zhang Xin , Li Juanjuan , Zheng Jingyuan , Zeng Fen , Kitili Ike , Chen Qianyi
Published: June 2023

Objective:
To explore the psychological changes that may take place in older women with a second child from conception to birth. The study has several aims, including the provision of protection of the overall health level of these women; the maintenance of women's position in the labor market; and the promotion of theimplementation of the "comprehensive two-child" policy.
Methods:
Semi-open interviews were conducted on older women pregnant with their second child. These women were recruited from three tertiary hospitals in one province in western China. The interview content was analyzed using the qualitative research method of Japanese scholar Kinoshita Yasuhito's revised version of grounded theory.
Results:
Four themes were extracted from the psychological experience of the older women with a second child; these were: Life choice; The mixed feelings of motherhood; The backbone of a family; Second children should be cautious.
Conclusion:
older women with a second child face physical, psychological, life, and other pressures. To ensure the implementation of the "comprehensive two-child" policy, the Chinese government should speed up the establishment of a fertility support system, including education, medical investment, women’s employment rights protection, and pension burden. Establish and improve relevant policies.
Sex Differences in Ventricular-Vascular Interactions Associated with Aerobic Capacity
Authors: Morrison Barbara N. , Mittermaier Peter M. , Lester Garth , Bodner Michael , Cote Anita
Published: June 2023

Background: Aerobic capacity as measured by peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), is related to functional capacity and is a strong independent predictor of all-cause and disease-specific mortality. Lifelong exercise is associated with reduced central arterial and ventricular stiffness, potential mechanisms that may underpin cardiovascular health benefits as a result of endurance training. The purpose of this study was to evaluate sex-specific ventricular-vascular interactions associated with VO2peak in healthy males and females.
Methods: Sixty-eight males and females (35 10 years) characterized as recreational exercisers to highly trained endurance athletes, and free of chronic disease underwent a cycle ergometer test to exhaustion to assess aerobic capacity (VO2peak). Resting arterial compliance and echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular (LV) function were measured.
Results: VO2peak was similar between groups (54 6 vs. 50 7). LV mass indexed to body surface area (LVMI) was higher (110 20 vs. 94 18, p=0.001) and longitudinal diastolic strain rate was lower (1.6 0.3 vs. 1.4 0.2, p=0.005) in males. Linear regression analysis revealed LVMI and longitudinal diastolic strain rate were significantly associated with VO2peak (r2=0.32, p=0.001) in males, while in females LVMI and large artery compliance were the key factors influencing VO2peak (r2=0.61, p<0.001).
Conclusion: These findings reveal that in females much of the variance in VO2peak can be attributed to ventricular and vascular adaptations, whereas in males, cardiac factors of structure and function accounted for the majority of this variance. The substantive central vascular adaptations to exercise observed in females in this study further validates engagement in endurance training to prevent age-related arterial stiffening in women.
A Study on the Classification of Geological Background Source Cadmium Migration Phases in Zhejiang Provence, China
Authors: Zhou Wenda , Lu Xinze , Huang Chunlei , Wang Jinghe , Guo Kegan , Xie Shuyun
Published: June 2023

The release of cadmium during the natural weathering process of cadmium-containing strata constitutes a significant source of cadmium pollution in both water and soil. The Hetang Formation, located in western Zhejiang Province in China, is a typical example of a cadmium-rich black shale stratum. The bottom coal seam of this formation has been found to contain high levels of cadmium, with concentrations reaching up to 11.2 mg/kg. The continuous weathering and erosion of cadmium-bearing bedrock by fluvial processes results in the release of cadmium, leading to geological background cadmium contamination of downstream soils. This study relies on the strong adsorption characteristics of iron-sediment for cadmium during migration and uses FE-SEM, EDS, optical microscopes and other means to observe the distribution of iron elements in rock fragments of different weathering degrees in the Hetang Formation in river channels. The aim is to explore the state of cadmium from geological background sources during migration. By comparing detritus from upstream and downstream sections of the river channel, it was determined that under weathering conditions, the occurrence state of geological background source cadmium could be divided into three distinct stages: unweathered stage; intra-detritus migration stage; and completely weathered stage. Furthermore, after leaving the Hetang Formation shale outcrop area, there was a sharp decrease in content for Hetang Formation detritus. At this point geological background source cadmium had largely escaped from constraints imposed by rock structure and had come into full contact with water. The findings from this research deepen our understanding regarding migration patterns for geological background source cadmium. They also reveal formation processes for geological background source cadmium pollution and provide a theoretical basis for identification and treatment for geological background source cadmium pollution.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, XRD Analysis, Hirshfeld Surface Analysis, and Biological Studies of New Fe(II) and Cu(II) complexes of 2-acetyl pyridine derivative sulfonyl hydrazone Schiff Base
Authors: Çınarlı Murat , Ataol Çiğdem Yüksektepe , Öğütçü Hatice , Açık Leyla , Bati Humeyra
Published: June 2023

It is known that sulfonyl hydrazones and their metal complexes may have potential biological activity. We have prepared new Fe(II) (1) and Cu(II) (2) complexes of 2-acetyl pyridine derivative sulfonyl hydrazone (LH). The new metal complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, UV spectra, and magnetic moment measurements. The molecular structure of (2) was elucidated by X-ray diffraction analysis and the crystal package in three-dimensional space was obtained. To support the intermolecular interactions obtained from X-ray diffraction results, Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint maps of (2) were generated. It was determined that H...H (47.4%), H...C/C...H (25.8%), H...O/O...H (17.4%), and H...N/N...H (8%) interactions will play an effective role in the crystal packing of the molecule. From elemental analysis data, the stoichiometries of (1) and (2) were found to be 1:2 (metal/ligand). All data indicated that the ligand coordinated with metal atoms through pyridine nitrogen, imine nitrogen, and sulfonyl oxygen. The well-diffusion approach was also used to test the ligand and the complexes for their antibacterial properties against harmful microbes. The substances were tested for DNA cleavage using the agarose gel electrophoresis technique. The complex (1) was found to be effective on the plasmid DNA of pBR322.
Rare acute pulmonary thromboembolism after internal fixation for isolated multiple rib fractures: a case report
Authors: Xu Bao-ping , Yang Hao , Pen Huai-wen , Zhu Sen , Li Zhen-jun , Wang Xiao-tao
Published: June 2023

Background
Multiple rib fractures are common in emergency trauma patients with high mortality. Acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is rare and has not been reported in patients with isolated multiple rib fractures after surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF). We report a case of a 64-year-old patient presenting with PTE after SSRF due to non-standardized anticoagulant therapy; it should attract enough attention from thoracic surgeons.
Case presentation
A 64-year-old male was admitted to our hospital with multiple rib fractures, pulmonary contusion, bilateral pleural effusion, and incomplete right lung expansion. The patients were treated on the sixth day of their hospitalization with thoracoscopic exploration combined with internal fixation of the right fracture of the sixth to eighth ribs. He started anticoagulant therapy 48 h after the operation to prevent deep vein thrombosis with low molecular weight heparin 2500 units once daily. He gradually recovered from the operation, and his symptoms improved. The patient was diagnosed with acute PTE based on pulmonary artery angiography of CT on the fourth day after surgery; since that time, he has been treated with a subcutaneous injection of 60 mg enoxaparin every 12 h. After two weeks of anticoagulant therapy, they were discharged from the hospital and continued to receive oral anticoagulant therapy. The patient was followed up for three months after discharge, and everything was normal.
Conclusion
Acute PTE after isolated multiple rib fractures is rare; although SSRF is a relatively safe and effective treatment for multiple rib fractures with dislocation, perioperative deep vein thrombosis, including PTE and deep vein thrombosis, should be given sufficient attention by clinicians. The standardized prevention of perioperative venous thromboembolism for multiple rib fractures requires further research due to the lack of high-quality clinical evidence support.
A comparison of the epidemiological factors and burden of autism spectrum disorders worldwide and in China
Authors: Hai Yang , Muhammad Shan , Ain Qurat ul , Zou Mingyang , Liu Di , LiJie Wu
Published: June 2023

Objective
This study uses disability-adjusted life years to examine global and Chinese autism burden trends by year, age, gender, area, socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioral factors.
Methods
We analyzed ASD burden using 1990–2019 prevalence and DALYs. The Global Burden of Disease 2019 database provided global and national epidemiological data. Socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioral characteristics were correlated with age-standardized DALYs using linear regression.
Results
ASD DALYs increased by 39% globally and 14% in China from 1990 to 2019. The global ASD peak age for both men and women is 5, with numerous peaks of increasing tendencies in China at 5, 30, and 50 years. DALYs, incidence, and prevalence are 3–4 times higher in men. China had the most DALYs in 2019, and the UK had the most age-standardized. Countries differed in how ASD affected health. Socioeconomic factors considerably influenced age-standardized DALYs (GDP per capita, R2 = 0.305; HDI, R2 = 0.287; Health expenditure (% of GDP), R2 = 0.088; p < 0.05). ASD-related age-standardized DALYs were positively connected with per capita alcohol intake, negatively correlated with PM2.5, and insignificantly correlated with cigarette use prevalence.
Conclusions
Over the last 30 years, the health impact of ASD has steadily risen. It caused significant health loss, particularly for preschool children in households with a drinking habit from a higher socioeconomic level country.
Su(Hw) interacts with Combgap to establish long-range chromatin contacts
Authors: Vorobyeva Nadezhda E. , Krasnov Alexey N. , Erokhin Maksim , Chetverina Darya , Mazina Marina
Published: June 2023

Insulator-binding proteins (IBPs) play a critical role in genome architecture by forming and maintaining contact domains. While the involvement of several IBPs in organising chromatin architecture in Drosophila has been described, the specific contribution of the Suppressor of Hairy wings (Su(Hw)) IBP to genome topology remains unclear. In this study, we provide evidence for the existence of long-range interactions (LRIs) between Su(Hw) and Combgap ChIP-Seq peaks, reflected in the indirect binding of these proteins to chromatin in ChIP experiments. Loss of Su(Hw) binding results in the disappearance of Su(Hw)-Combgap LRIs and a decrease in spatial self-interactions among a subset of Su(Hw) sites. Our findings suggest that Su(Hw)-Combgap LRIs are associated with active chromatin rather than Polycomb-directed repression. Furthermore, we observe that the majority of transcription start sites that are down-regulated upon loss of Su(Hw) binding to chromatin are located within 2 kb of Combgap peaks and exhibit Su(Hw)-dependent changes in Combgap and transcriptional regulators’ binding.
Tell me who you go with and I will tell you what you do: Antarctic seal lice behave differently
Authors: Soto Florencia Anabella , Crespo José , Negrete Javier , Leonardi María Soledad
Published: June 2023

Lice of the family Echinophthiriidae are obligate and permanent ectoparasites of pinnipeds and sea otters. Morphological, ecological, and behavioral adaptations have enabled them to survive in their amphibian hosts. However, it has been shown experimentally that the eggs do not survive submerged. This physiological limitation restricts their reproductive events to the terrestrial periods of their hosts, mainly during molting and reproduction. We studied the reproductive strategies of Antarctophthirus lobodontis on crabeater seals (CS, n = 54) and A. carlinii on Weddell seals (WS, n = 54) from Danco Coast, Antarctic Peninsula, during the molting season. Lice were sexed and classified as adults or nymphs under a stereomicroscope. The 20.37% of the CS had potentially viable eggs and all the nymphal stages and adults. However, in the WS we only found N3 and adults. Our results would suggest that A. lobodontis lays viable eggs that can survive immersion. Instead, the transmission of A. carlinii would be mainly by adults. According to previous studies, A. carlinii would reproduce during the reproductive season of WS. These reproductive strategies of seal lice would be related to the life history of their host, mainly to diving behavior and the haul-out patterns during their life cycle, reflecting the strong coadaptation and coevolution mechanisms between seals and lice. The differences in the population structure of the two species observed here may indicate that they are different species, or at least that they have undergone different co-evolutionary processes depending on the habit of their hosts.
Clinical features of ataxia with oculoapraxia type 2 in China
Authors: Tian Tian , Yang Junxia , Gao Meina
Published: June 2023

Background: Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2) is very rare in China. This study aims to report on a Chinese girl with AOA2, and summarize the characteristics of Chinese AOA2 patients previously reported.
Methods: We compiled a series of seven previously reported and one novel ataxic patients who underwent senataxin gene (SETX) sequencing because of suspected AOA2. The clinical and molecular features of a series of Chinese AOA2 patients with proven SETX mutations were summarized.
Results: A novel homozygous missense mutation c.3455T>G (p.Phe1152Cys) in SETX was identified in a 17-year-old girl with ataxia, tremor, cervical dystonia and significantly elevated level of AFP (346 ng/mL). We reviewed a series of eight Chinese AOA2 patients from five families, including two males and six females. Onset of the disease occurred at an average age of 15.1 years, ranging from 10 to 20 years. The disease duration ranged from 3 to 24 years. The initial symptom was cerebellar ataxia in all cases (100%). Slurred speech and gaze nystagmus were present in six subjects (75%). None of the patients had OMA (0). One patient showed mild mental decline (12.5%). Cerebellar atrophy, pes cavus and polyneuropathy were found in 7 out of 8 cases (87.5%). Raised serum AFP levels were detected in five patients (62.5%). Extrapyramidal symptoms were found in three subjects (37.5%). Early-onset menopause was reported in one patient (12.5%). Five new mutations in the SETX were identified by molecular analyses. Among the variants, 10 homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in SETX were exonic, comprising 6 missense mutations, 2 nonsense mutations, 2 frameshift mutations.
Conclusions: This is the first reported AOA2 case in China, exhibiting tremor, cervical dystonia and high AFP, which broadens the spectrum of Chinese AOA2. The phenotype of Chinese AOA2 shows a higher frequency of pes cavus, lower percentage of AFP elevation and the absence of OMA in comparison with AOA2 patients worldwide. Future studies in a larger cohort are needed to validate these findings.
T cell invigoration is associated with the clinical response to anti-PD-1 based immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Hui , Weng Gui zhen , Sun Lina , Pan Zhang chi , Zhang Lu , Chen Qiang , Shi Chun mei
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been developed for clinical application and proven effective for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Blockade of the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) protein can partially reinvigorate circulating exhausted-phenotype CD8+ T cells (Tex cells) in preclinical models, however the clinical implication in anti-PD-1 based immunotherapy in NSCLC is unknown.
Methods: Serum specimens were obtained before and during treatment from 145 patients with NSCLC patients who received anti-PD-1 treatment and their prognosis was followed-up. Indicators such as cell subpopulations, T cell invigoration were detected by clinical laboratory testing. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to draw survival curves and Cox regression analysis to confirm the independent prognostic factors of NSCLC patients.
Results: The expressions of Ki-67 in PD-1+/CD8+ T cells in most NSCLC patients (97 of 145 cases) increased after treatment. The responding Ki-67+/CD8+ T cell population was mainly CD45RAlo CD27hi, containing cells with high expression of CTLA-4, PD-1, and 2B4 and low expression of NKG2-D (P<0.0001). The maximum fold change of Ki-67+/PD-1+/CD8+T cells in treatment cycles and the tumor burden determined by imaging were associated with better progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A Ki-67 expression to tumor burden ratio greater than 0.6 at the 1st cycle of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy was associated with improvement of PFS and OS (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Activation of circulating Tex cells before therapy related to tumor burden may be associated with clinical efficacy of anti-PD-1 immune therapy in NSCLC.
Enhancement of Stability on Dc Microgrid Using Dual Seires Virtual Impedance Based Fuzzy Controller Under Variation of Constant Power Load
Authors: Yadav Mukhraj , Singh Navdeep
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the stability issue in direct current microgrid (DC MGs) due to linear and nonlinear constant power load (CPL). The deterioration can be damped out by inserting virtual resistances to minimize the impact of negative resistance of the CPL. However, large virtual resistances caused low stability region. This paper proposed a dual series virtual impedance with fuzzy logic-based voltage and current feed-forward controller. The dual series virtual impedance and a fuzzy logic (FL) are used for improvement of transient behaviour and steady-state error. However, the crossover frequency increased by inserting of CPL is minimized but, not much improved by virtual impedance controller. A fuzzy logic-based voltage and current feedforward controller moves from instable to stable region. With FL based current feedforward controller, the crossover frequency has been minimized from to 454 rad/sec to 23.8 rad/sec for 5 kW load. The feedforward current can not only improve the transient response but also mitigate the crossover frequency for small-signal modelling stability of microgrids. The comparative stability and transient performance have been demonstrated for variation of CPL (5–9 kW) and source. Different scenario variations of loads and source has been validated through simulated for power management by bidirectional converter.
Factors associated with the severity of actinic keratosis on face and scalp in a Brazilian sample: a cross-sectional study.
Authors: Gioppo Ingrid Stresser , Martins Ivanka Miranda de Castro , Santos Stefany S , Preto João Felipe Rossival , Miola Anna Carolina , Miot Helio Amante
Published: June 2023

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a skin condition associated with several risk factors, such as age, sun exposure, and immunosuppression. Certain drugs, such as photosensitizing medications and calcium channel blockers (CCBs), have also been linked to AK. Therefore, his study aims to explore the impact of individual, behavioural, and exposure factors on the severity of AKs on the face and scalp. A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted on immunocompetent individuals with at least one AK on their face or scalp. The study assessed demographic factors, sun exposure and protection, smoking and alcohol use, personal and family history of skin cancer, and medication use within the last six months. The primary outcome was the Actinic Keratosis Area and Severity Index (AKASI) score, and a hierarchical generalized linear model was used to evaluate the variation in AKASI scores, adjusting for sex, age, and skin phototype. A total of 270 subjects aged between 39 and 92 years were evaluated, with a majority having phototype I or II (77%), male gender (51%), a personal history of skin cancer (55%), and low adherence to sunscreen use (29%). The use of photosensitizing medications was reported by 61% of the sample. Through multivariate analysis, older age (βSE = 0.14; p < 0.01), lighter skin phototype (βSE = 0.15; p = 0.01), a personal history of skin cancer (βSE = 0.12; p < 0.01), sunburning (βSE = 0.12; p < 0.01), and the use of CCBs (βSE = 0.11; p = 0.02) were identified as independent risk factors for AK severity. However, regular use of sunscreen was associated with less severe AK (βSE=-0.10; p = 0.03). Photosensitizing drugs, including hydrochlorothiazide, were not identified as risk factors. Older age, lower skin phototype classifications, and a personal history of skin cancer were confirmed as severity risk factors for AK, while adherence to sun protection was identified as a protective factor. The use of CCBs was associated with more severe AK.
Evaluation of the Properties of Secondary Side Current Rectifiers for Wireless Power Transfer System
Authors: Kindl V. , Zavrel M. , Tyrpekl M. , Frivaldsky M. , Skorvaga J.
Published: June 2023

Current tendencies in the field of charging systems are continuously attracted by the phenomenon of the wireless power charging. It is worth to say that within past decade, significant attention was spent on the research and development of various configurations of the transmitters, receivers, compensation networks and alternative solutions for the power circuits on the primary and/or secondary side of the system. In this paper the proposal for the performance optimization of the wireless power transfer (WPT) system is given. The solution is based on the alternative configuration of the secondary side rectifier. It is represented by diode rectifier with current doubler. Comparing to the bridge rectifier, two diodes are replaced by the inductors. Initially, a system analysis was performed to investigate electrical behavior and to find the most optimal conditions referred to terms of efficiency performance at nominal power. Due to this requirement the rectifier inductors must be designed according to meet this condition. The experimental verification was realized as well, while the proposed solution was compared to other common alternatives of the secondary side rectification. The load sensitivity analysis in terms of efficiency performance was realized as well, to observe system behavior for wide operation range. From the results is seen, that proposed alternative of the secondary side rectification of WPT system gives promising results in terms of high operating efficiency.