bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress or Compromise—Technological Investigation of the Transition Zone of Metal Chaplets in Ancient Chinese Bronzes
Authors: Yang Huan , Fang Zhao , Deng Yingjie , Du Jingnan , Li Cheng , Yang Junchang
Published: April 2023

Metal chaplets were frequently used in ancient Chinese bronzes. The use of chaplets has been regarded as technological progress for a long time; nonetheless, the current research shows a transition zone of oxidation between chaplets and metal body formed during the solidification of bronzes which negatively impacts these bronzes. To date, the transition zone has attracted very little research attention. The scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis on elemental composition and metallographic investigation of the transition zone were carried out in a reconstructed bronze tripod. It was found that the transition zone mainly consisted of copper oxides, which is further demonstrated as cuprous oxide by X-ray diffraction (XRD)It appears to be formed during the solidification process due to the high-temperature and low-oxygen environment. The existence of the transition zone possibly led to preferential corrosion during usage, and thus caused the shedding of chaplets and damage the integrity of bronzes. The existence of this inevitable transition zone indicates the occurrence of inherent defects in the metal chaplet technology. Although this technology can improve the casting success rate and is a progress in social production, it can also affect the integrity of bronze and is a compromise of the bronze casting technology itself.
Effect of Alaska pollock-gelatin sealant sheet on bonding strength and regeneration of the nerve in cadaveric and rat models
Authors: Tsujisaka Ryosuke , Suzuki Taku , Shibata Shinsuke , Moritoki Nobuko , Ichimaru Hiroaki , Nishiguchi Akihiro , Matsumura Noboru , Iwamoto Takuji , Taguchi Tetsushi , Nakamura Masaya
Published: April 2023

A novel sheet-type sealant composed of Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) was introduced. This study aimed to investigate the bonding strength and the biocompatibility of ApGltn sheet. Human digital nerves from fresh cadavers were repaired using six surgical interventions (20 nerves per group): (a) double suture, (b) single suture + ApGltn sheet, (c) single suture + fibrin sealant, (d) single suture, (e) ApGltn sheet, and (f) fibrin sealant, and maximum failure loads were measured. For functional evaluations, the rat sciatic nerves were exposed to six surgical interventions: (a) double suture, (b) single suture + ApGltn sheet, (c) single suture, (d) ApGltn sheet, (e) fibrin sealant, and (f) resection (10 rats per group). Macroscopic confirmation, muscle weight measurement, and histopathological findings were examined 8 weeks postoperatively. The maximum failure load of ApGltn sheet was significantly higher than that of a fibrin sealant (0.39 N vs. 0.05 N). The maximum failure load of single suture + ApGltn sheet was significantly higher than that of a single suture (1.32 N vs. 0.97 N). Functional and histological examinations showed similar recovery between ApGltn sheet-repaired sciatic nerves and those repaired with sutures or fibrin. ApGltn sheet addition to a single suture reinforces the nerve bonding strength.
Network Traffic Technology Monitoring and Simulation in English Online Class based on Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Zhang Shukui
Published: April 2023

The service behavior of the Internet uses the technology of network traffic to monitor and analyze the traffic. Most of the protective measures we know use dynamic analysis to achieve the flexibility of the network environment, this form of traffic may be easy Be monitored and blocked. In order to make the traffic resistant to certain attacks, the article presents a new form of traffic stealth technology that uses the server to hide the dynamic traffic as the target traffic, and hides the network traffic to achieve the function of resisting risks. The traffic is transformed into an unchangeable target traffic, thereby ensuring the privacy and security of the traffic. In this mode, the university English classroom phenomenon under the network environment is the research object, and the framework of English education is established by the method of argumentation. The results show that this technical form has a good form of expression in many performances, and can turn dynamic information into a target form to hide the state. This result has a great reference value for the improvement of English teaching quality in the contemporary network environment, and promotes the learning of students and the ideas of teachers.
Disruption of the posterior ligamentous complex at the rostral segment of lumbar fusion leads to higher revision rates in short term. A single center, retrospective study.
Authors: Godolias Periklis , Costa Matias , Plümer Jonathan , Cibura Charlotte , Gerstmeyer Julius , Heep Hansjörg , Dudda Marcel , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Oskouian Rod J. , Chapman Jens R.
Published: April 2023

Purpose:
The development of symptomatic adjacent segment disease (sASD) following posterior lumbar decompression and fusion (PLDF) contributes to patients' post-operative morbidity in the form of recurrent back pain and radiculopathy and often requires further surgery[1]. One hypothesized risk factor for ASD is the posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) integrity between the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) and the first unfused segment (UIV+1)[2]. The purpose of this study is to determine and quantify the radiographic and clinical role of preserving the PLC between the UIV and the UIV+1 in preventing sASD.
Methods:
A retrospective review of 122 patients who received a PLDF was performed. Patients were divided into groups based on the integrity of the PLC between the UIV and the UIV+1: PLC disrupted (D) and PLC intact (I). Development of ASD was assessed by standard radiographic parameters and a review of reoperation rates for ASD.
Results:
The revision rate due to sASD of the entire cohort was 7.4%. Revision rate of group-D (28 patients) exceeded the revision rate of group-I (94 patients) by 4.3% (10.7 vs. 6.4%), over a mean follow-up of three years. The mean return to the OR -time due to sASD at the UIV+1 was 2.4 years (± 1.7 y.) after index surgery. All applied radiographic indicators for ASD suggested higher incidences in patients of group-D, without statistical significance.
Conclusions:
When the pathology allows, care should be taken to preserve the PLC during lumbar decompression and fusion surgery at the rostral aspect of the construct.
Trial registration: The study was approved by our institutional review board (STUDY2021000355).
High N availability decreases N uptake and yield under limited water availability in maize
Authors: Flynn Nora E. , Comas Louise H. , Stewart Catherine E. , Fonte Steven J.
Published: April 2023

Water and nitrogen (N) are the most limiting factors to plant productivity globally, but we lack a critical understanding of how water availability impacts plant N requirements and ecosystem losses. Plant N requirements are particularly uncertain when water is limited because of the interactive effect of water and N on plant growth, plant N demand, and plant N uptake. We investigated impacts of N application and water availability on plant and N metrics, including above and belowground growth, water productivity, N productivity, N uptake, N recovery, and greenhouse gas emissions within a semi-arid system in northeastern Colorado, USA. High soil N availability depressed grain yield and shoot growth under limited water availability, with similar trends also under full water availability, despite no indication of physical toxicity. Under low N availability, plant N concentrations in aboveground tissues showed greater recovery of N than what was applied in the low N treatments under both full and limited water availability. This enhanced recovery underscores the need to better understand both plant soil foraging and processes governing resource availability under these conditions. Finally, limited water availability reduced N uptake across all N treatments and left 30% more soil N-NO3- deep in the soil profile at the end of the season than under full water availability. Our results show that plant N use is not linearly related to water use and emphasize the need for an integrated understanding of water and N interactions, plant foraging for these resources, and the dynamics of processes that make N available to plants.
Theobromine versus Casein phospho-peptide/Amorphous Calcium Phosphate with Fluoride as remineralizing agents: Effect on resin-dentine bond strength, microhardness, and morphology of dentine
Authors: Elmalawany Lamia M. , Sherief Dalia I. , Alian Ghada A.
Published: April 2023

Background: This study aimed to assess the impact of theobromine and casein phospho-peptides/amorphous calcium phosphate with Fluoride (CPP/ACPF) on the resin-dentine bond strength, microhardness, and dentine morphology.
Methods: Based on the pre-treatment used, 18 sound human third molars were split into six groups.; sound dentine, demineralized dentine, and demineralized dentine treated with theobromine and MI paste plus for two-time intervals; 5 minutes and 1 month. The bonded teeth were sectioned to produce 1 mm2 resin-dentine sticks which were evaluated for micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS) using a universal testing device. The dentine microhardness was tested by using the Vickers microhardness tester. The pre-treated dentine surface was examined using Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). µTBS results were analysed with two-way ANOVA. Microhardness and EDX results were analysed with two-way mixed model ANOVA.
Results: While both remineralizing materials at the two-time intervals demonstrated µTBS comparable to sound dentine, the demineralized group demonstrated statistically the lowest µTBS. Whether used for 5 minutes or 1 month, theobromine significantly increased the microhardness, whereas MI paste only increased the hardness after 1 month.
Conclusions: The pre-treatment of demineralized dentine with theobromine and MI paste plus could enhance its bond strength and microhardness.
A novel natural killer-related signature to effectively predict prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xi Deyang , Wang Jialu , Yang Yinshuang , Ji Fang , Li Chunyang , Yan Xuebing
Published: April 2023

Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent tumor that poses a significant threat to human health, with 80% of cases being primary HCC. At present, Early diagnosis of HCC is challenging and the it is characterized by a high degree of invasiveness, both of which negatively impact patient prognosis. Natural killer cells (NK) play an important role in the development, diagnosis and prognosis of malignant tumors. The potential of NK cell-related genes for evaluating the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma remains unexplored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the association between NK cell-related genes and the prognosis of HCC patients, with the goal of developing a reliable model that can provide novel insights into evaluating the immunotherapy response and prognosis of these patients. This work has the potential to significantly advance our understanding of the complex interplay between immune cells and tumors, and may ultimately lead to improved clinical outcomes for HCC patients.
Methods
For this study, we employed transcriptome expression data from the hepatocellular carcinoma cancer genome map (TCGA-LIHC) to develop a model consisting of NK cell-related genes. To construct the NK cell-related signature (NKRLSig), we utilized a combination of univariate COX regression, Area Under Curve (AUC)Lasso COX regression, and multivariate COX regression. To validate the model, we conducted external validation using the GSE14520 cohort.
Results
We developed a prognostic model based on 5-NKRLSig (IL18RAP, CHP1, VAMP2, PIC3R1, PRKCD), which divided patients into high- and low-risk groups based on their risk score. The high-risk group was associated with a poor prognosis, and the risk score had good predictive ability across all clinical subgroups. The risk score and stage were found to be independent prognostic indicators for HCC patients when clinical factors were taken into account. We further created a nomogram incorporating the 5-NKRLSig and clinicopathological characteristics, which revealed that patients in the low-risk group had a better prognosis. Moreover, our analysis of immunotherapy and chemotherapy response indicated that patients in the low-risk group were more responsive to immunotherapy.
Conclusion
The model that we developed not only sheds light on the regulatory mechanism of NK cell-related genes in HCC, but also has the potential to advance our understanding of immunotherapy for HCC. With its strong predictive capacity, our model may prove useful in evaluating the prognosis of patients and guiding clinical decision-making for HCC patients.
A novel model associated with tumor microenvironment on predicting prognosis and immunotherapy in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Juan , Zhang Mi , Tian Qi , Yang Jin
Published: April 2023

Background
TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer) is the most aggressive and malignant subtype in breast cancer. Immunotherapy is a currently promising and effective treatment for TNBC, while not all patients are responsive. Therefore, it is necessary to explore novel biomarkers to screen sensitive populations for immunotherapy.
Methods
All mRNA expression profiles of TNBC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were clustered into two subgroups by analyzing tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) with single sample gene set enrichment analysis(ssGSEA). A risk score model was constructed based on differently expressed genes (DEGs) identified from two subgroups using Cox and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selector Operation (LASSO) regression model. And it was validated by Kaplan–Meier analysis and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) databases. Multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) and Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were performed on clinical TNBC tissue samples. The relationship between risk score and immune checkpoint blockades (ICB) related signatures was further investigated, as well as the biological processes were performed by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA).
Results
We obtained three DEGs positively related to prognosis and infiltrating immune cells in TNBC. Our risk score model could be an independent prognostic factor and the low risk group exhibited a prolonged overall survival (OS). Patients in low risk group were more likely to present a higher immune infiltration and stronger response to immunotherapy. GSEA revealed the model was associated with immune-related pathways.
Conclusion
We constructed and validated a novel model based on three prognostic genes related to TIME in TNBC. The model contributed a robust signature that could predict the prognosis and response to immunotherapy in TNBC.
Physiological and genetic characteristics of a salt-tolerant mutant line in soybean (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Moon Chang Yeok , Kang Byeong Hee , Kim Woon Ji , Chowdhury Sreeparna , Kang Sehee , Lee Jeong-Dong , Kwon Soon-Jae , Kim Han-Yong , Lee Hyeon-Seok , Ha Bo-Keun
Published: April 2023

Soil salinity is a worldwide problem that reduces crop yields, but the development of salt-tolerant crops can help overcome this challenge. This study was conducted with the purpose of evaluating the physiological and genetic characteristics of a new salt-tolerant mutant KA-1285 developed using gamma-ray irradiation in soybean (Glycine max L.). The physiological responses of KA-1285 were compared with salt-sensitive and salt-tolerant genotypes after treatment with 150 mM NaCl for two weeks. In addition, a major salt tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL) was identified on chromosome 3 in a study using the Daepung X KA-1285 169 F2:3 population, and a specific deletion was identified in Glyma03g171600 (Wm82.a2.v1.1) near the QTL region based on re-sequencing analysis. A kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) marker was developed based on the deletion of Glyma03g171600 that distinguished the wild-type and mutant alleles. Through the analysis of gene expression patterns, it was confirmed that Glyma03g171700 (Wm82.a2.v1.1) is a major gene that controls salt tolerance functions in Glyma03g32900 (Wm82.a1.v1.1). These results suggest that the gamma-ray-induced mutant KA-1285 has the potential to be employed for the development of a salt-tolerant cultivar and provide useful information for genetic research related to salt tolerance in soybeans.
Brain texture as a marker of transdiagnostic clinical profiles in patients with recent-onset psychosis and depression
Authors: Korda Alexandra , Andreou Christina , Ruef Anne , Hahn Lisa , Schmidt André , Dannlowski Udo , Kambeitz-Ilankovic Lana , Dwyer Dominic , Kambeitz Joseph , Wenzel Julian , Ruhrmann Stephan , Salokangas Raimo , Pantelis Christos , Schultze-Lutter Frauke , Meisenzahl Eva , Brambilla Paolo , Selvaggi Pierluigi , Upthegrove Rachel , Lalousis Paris Alexandros , Riecher-Rössler Anita , Davatzikos Christos , Lencer Rebekka , Koutsouleris Nikolaos , Borgwardt Stefan
Published: April 2023

Prediction models of brain texture changes in recent-onset psychosis (ROP) and recent-onset depression (ROD) have lately been proposed. The validation of these models transdiagnostically at the individual level and the investigation of the variability in clinical profiles are still missing. Established prevention and treatment approaches focus on specific diagnoses and do not address the heterogeneity and manifold potential outcomes of patients. We aimed to investigate the utility of brain texture changes for a) identification of the psychopathological state (ROP and ROD) and b) the association of individualized brain texture maps with clinical symptom severity and outcome profiles. We developed transdiagnostic models based on structural MRI data on 116 patients with ROD, 122 patients with ROP, and 197 healthy controls (HC) from the Personalised pROgNostic tools for early psychosIs mAnagement (PRONIA) study by applying explainable artificial intelligence and clustering analysis. We investigated the contrast texture feature as the key feature for the identification of a general psychopathological state. The discrimination power of the trained prediction model was > 72% and validated in a second independent age and sex-matched sample of 137 ROP, 94 ROD, and 159 HC. Clustering analysis was implemented to map the texture brain changes produced from an explainable artificial intelligence algorithm, in a group fashion. The explained individualized brain contrast map grouped into 8 homogeneous clusters. In each group, we investigated the association between the explained brain contrast texture map and clinical symptom severity as well as outcome profiles. Different patterns in the explained brain contrast texture map showed unique associations of brain alterations with clinical symptom severity and clinical outcomes, i.e., age, positive, negative and depressive symptoms, and functionality. In some clusters, the mean explained brain contrast texture map values and/or brain contrast texture voxels significantly contribute to the classification decision significantly predicted PANSS scores, functionality and change in functionality over time. In conclusion, we created homogeneous clusters which statistically significant predict the clinical severity and outcome profile.
1st Trimester Identification of Fetal Sex by Ultrasound
Authors: Schaefer Emma C , McKenna David S , Sonek Jiri D
Published: April 2023

Purpose
The hypothesis was fetal sex determination by ultrasound at 11–14 weeks’ gestation has sufficient accuracy to be clinically relevant.
Methods
Fetal sex assessment by transabdominal ultrasound was performed in 567 fetuses at 11–14 weeks’ gestation (CRL: 45–84 mm). A midsagittal view of the genital region was obtained. The angle of the genital tubercle to a horizontal line through the lumbosacral skin surface was measured. The fetus was assigned male sex if the angle was > 30 degrees, and female sex if the genital tubercle was parallel or convergent (< 10 degrees). At an intermediate angle of 10–30 degrees the sex was not assigned. The results were divided into three categories based on gestational age: 11 + 2 to 12 + 1, 12 + 2 to 13 + 1, and 13 + 2 to 14 + 1 weeks’ gestation. To establish its accuracy, the first trimester fetal sex determination was compared to fetal sex determined on a mid-second trimester ultrasound.
Results
Sex assignment was successful in 534/683 (78%) of the cases. The overall accuracy of fetal sex assignment across all gestational ages studied was 94.4%. It was 88.3%, 94.7%, and 98.6% at 11 + 2 to 12 + 1, 12 + 2 to 13 + 1, and 13 + 2 to 14 + 1 weeks’ gestation, respectively.
Conclusion
Prenatal sex assignment at the time of first trimester ultrasound screening has a high accuracy rate. The accuracy improved with increasing gestational age, which suggests that if clinically important decisions, such as chorionic villus sampling, are to be made based on fetal sex, they should be delayed until the latter part of the first trimester.
Successful treatment with doxycycline monotherapy for human infection with Babesia venatorum (Babesiidae, Sporozoa) in China: a case report and clinic regimen
Authors: Huang Lei , Huo Dan-Dan , Xu Ming , Xia Luo-Yuan , Yang Ning , Wei Hong , Huang Ling , Nie Wei-Min , Liao Ru-He , Zhang Ming-Zhu , Zhu Dai-Yun , Li Yan , Ma He-Cheng , Zhang Xin , Li Yong-Gang , Huang Xin-An , Wang Jing-Yuan , Cao Wu-Chun , Sun Yi , Wang Fu-Sheng , Jiang Jia-Fu
Published: April 2023

Background: Human babesiosis is a worldwide disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Babesia, which are transmitted by bites from ixodid ticks but also mechanically transmitted by blood transfusion. This disease is primarily treated with quinine and/or atovaquone, which are not readily available in China. A novel treatment regimen with doxycycline monotherapy in one severe patient with Babesia venatorum infection was achieved as an alternative therapeutic medication.
Case presentation: A 73-year-old male who underwent splenectomy and blood transfusion 8 years previously had unexplained fever, headache and thrombocytopenia and was admitted to the Fifth Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital. The cases were confirmed to be infected with B. venatorum by morphological observations on thin peripheral blood smears, multi-gene PCR, and sequencing of the entire 18s-rRNA and partial β-tubulin encoding genes, as well as isolation by animal inoculation. The doxycycline monotherapy regimen was administered following pharmacological guidance and an effective outcome was observed. The patient recovered rapidly following doxycycline monotherapy. The Babesia protozoan load in peripheral blood samples decreased by 88% in hematocrit counts 8 days later, and negative PCR results were achieved in 90 days when he was examined in our hospital. The treatment course of the patient lasted 3 months without side effects or sequelae. The 9-month follow-up survey of the patient did not show signs of recrudescence or anti-babesial tolerance.
Conclusions: We first reported an interesting clinical practice of successful doxycycline monotherapy for human babesiosis caused by B. venatorum, which provides an optional medical intervention for human babesiosis.
Reproductive phenology, morphoagronomic variability, and selection of mother plants of Hancornia speciosa Gomes (Apocynaceae)
Authors: Morais Gabriela Corrêa , Resende Rafael Tassinari , Chaves Lázaro José
Published: April 2023

Hancornia speciosa is a fruit tree species with potential for exploitation, which makes the adoption of strategies related to its conservation and breeding relevant. Our study aimed to investigate the reproductive phenology, estimate genetic variability, and identify superior H. speciosa genotypes among the accessions that compose the germplasm collection of the Federal University of Goiás, Brazil. Experimental data were obtained from 143 individual accessions. Evaluation of reproductive phenology was conducted on an arbitrary scale of points assigned to trees monthly. Morphological characterization was based on a list of 20 qualitative descriptors and 12 quantitative traits. The dissimilarity between and within botanical varieties and their correlation with the geographic distance of the origin populations were investigated. Analysis of variance components was performed using the Restricted Maximum Likelihood/Best Linear Unbiased Prediction procedure using two linear models. The selection of the ≈ 10% best individual accessions was performed considering genetic and genotypic values. With the exception of H. speciosa var. speciosa, the botanical varieties that compose the germplasm collection showed similar reproductive patterns, with a peak in fruit appearance in August. Morphological dissimilarity was smaller within botanical varieties. Among the botanical varieties, dissimilarity was generally positively correlated with the geographic distance. The adoption of a multivariate selection index procedure enables the prediction of genetic gains, resulting in the selection of genotypes from different similarity groups. Clone selection is the most promising strategy for the improvement of H. speciosa, ensuring a better response to selection in the short term than recurrent selection.
Characterization and in-vitro Alzheimer's Properties of Exopolysaccharide from Bacillus maritimus MSM1
Authors: Selim Manal S. , Mohamed Sahar S. , Asker Mohsen S. , Ibrahim Abeer Y. , El-Newary Samah A. , Awady Mohamed E. El
Published: April 2023

Four bacterial isolates were obtained from marine sediments collected from Sahl Hashish, Hurghada Red Sea, Egypt. The four isolates were screened for exopolysaccharides (EPSs) production and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. The most promising isolate S16 provided the highest EPS yield (7.51 g/L) and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. It was identified morphologically and genetically using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis as Bacillus maritimus. Physico-chemical analysis of BMEPS using UV-Vis was estimated uronic acid and sulfate contents are 24.7% and 18.3%, respectively. HPLC analysis indicated that mannuronic acid, glucouronic acid, glucose, and mannose are presented in a molar ratio of 0.8:1.0:2.8:2.3, respectively. Furthermore, FT-IR revealed an abundance of β-configurations. The GPC estimated the average molecular weight (Mw) as 4.31104 g/mol. BMEPS successfully inhibited AChE (IC50; 691.77± 8.65μg/ ml), BChE (IC50; 288.27±10.50μg/ ml), and tyrosinase (IC50; 3.34±0.09, 14.00± 0.14, and 22.96 ± 1.23μg/ ml during incubation durations of 10, 20, and 40 minutes). It also demonstrated a selective anti-inflammatory action against COX-2 rather than COX-1. Furthermore, BMEPS showed powerful antioxidant capabilities such as free radical and oxygen reactive species (ROS) scavenging, metal chelation, reduction capacbility, and suppression of lipid peroxidation. These activities are due to their distinct chemical composition. The findings of this study indicate that BMEPS has shown promising anti-disease Alzheimer's (AD) activity in vitro, qualifying them for inclusion in advanced In-vivo studies for the discovery of alternative treatments.
Postseismic gravity changes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake observed by superconducting gravimeters at Mizusawa, Japan
Authors: Tamura Yoshiaki , Kazama Takahito , Nishiyama Ryuichi , Matsuo Koji , Imanishi Yuichi
Published: April 2023

Postseismic gravity changes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake (Mw9.0) were investigated using the data from superconducting gravimeters (SGs) at Mizusawa, Japan. The data in the period from 2014 to 2021 were used in the analysis. The SG data were first corrected for instrumental drift using the results of absolute gravity measurements. Then, correction for the hydrological effect was applied based on physical modeling of soil moisture. Finally, the effect of vertical displacement of the station (free-air effect) was corrected using GNSS data. After these corrections, residual gravity indicated a long-term increase, with its rate gradually decreasing with time. This fact suggests that viscoelastic relaxation after the earthquake played an important role in producing the long-term gravity changes. Fitting a decaying exponential function of time to the residual series yielded 89.4 ± 4.4 µGal as the total gravity change and 635 ± 17 days as the characteristic time scale. In addition to the ground-based observations, the data from satellite gravity missions GRACE/GRACE-FO were analyzed to retrieve gravity changes at Mizusawa. Similar analysis of the satellite-based data yielded 18.5 ± 2.8 µGal as the total gravity change and 4270 ± 1000 days as the characteristic time scale. The difference in the estimates of the total gravity change, of a factor of about 5, from the ground-based and the satellite-based observations may be attributed to the limited spatial resolution in the latter method. The difference in the estimates of the time scale, of a factor of about 1/7, may originate from the difference in the depth where the two kinds of gravimetries are mainly sensitive. Referring to recent theoretical studies on postseismic deformations after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, our results can be interpreted consistently by assuming the existence of a layer of viscoelastic materials with viscosity 2×1018 Pa s underneath the Tohoku area of Japan.
Breastfeeding demand of mothers of preterm infants in China: a qualitative study informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel
Authors: Yu Yaqi , Liu Qianru , Xiong Xiaoju , Luo Ying , Song Wenshuai , Xie Wen , Fu Maoling , Yang Qiaoyue , Yu Genzhen
Published: April 2023

Background
Breastfeeding has been recognized as the golden standard, but the breastfeeding rates of preterm infants remain low globally. Due to the lack of sound theoretical framework and the attention to maternal needs in breastfeeding, the overall evidence and effectiveness of intervention is limited. This study aimed to explore Chinese preterm mothers’ demands on breastfeeding using the Behaviour Change Wheel to provide insight into the future design of breastfeeding behavior-enhancing intervention.
Method
A qualitative descriptive design was conducted in Wuhan in 2022. Based on purposeful sampling, 14 preterm mothers were recruited from a NICU in a Grade Ⅲ Class A hospital in Wuhan, China. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data using the interview guide developed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. Theoretical Thematic Analysis was used to review the data in 6 steps to identify themes.
Results
Five major themes emerged: (1) capability: infants’ cues reading and abnormalities identification, coping knowledge accumulation, and skills training; (2) physical opportunity: cleanliness and peace in the home, privacy and breastfeeding aids in public places; (3) social opportunity: family co-parenting, peer support, authoritative advocacy; (4) reflective motivation: health outcome information; (5) automatic motivation: maternal-infant bonding, free of aversive stimulus.
Conclusion
Preterm mothers’ demands for breastfeeding were diverse including capability improvement, physical and social opportunities acquirement, as well as increase in reflective and automatic motivation. People, resources and environments associated with the demands should be engaged to enhance capability, create opportunities, and promote motivation. Future studies are needed to design effective interventions according to mothers’ specific demands.
Prevalence of sexual dysfunction after breast cancer compared to controls, a study from CONSTANCES cohort
Authors: MANGIARDI-VELTIN Manon , MULLAERT Jimmy , COEURET-PELLICER Mireille , GOLDBERG Marcel , ZINS Marie , ROUZIER Roman , HEQUET Delphine , BONNEAU Claire
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Sexuality, a substantial factor in quality of life, may be altered after breast cancer (BC) treatments as they intimately afflict femininity. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with a history of BC and to compare it with women without a BC history.

Methods

The French general epidemiological cohort CONSTANCES includes more than 200,000 adults. All inclusion questionnaires from CONSTANCES non-virgin adult female participants were analyzed. Women reporting a history of BC were compared to controls in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis was performed to highlight any demographic risk factor for sexual dysfunction.

Results

Among the 2,680 participants who had a history of BC, 34% did not engage in sexual intercourse (SI) in the month preceding the completion of the questionnaire (n=911), 34% had pain during SI (n=901) and 30% were not satisfied with their sex life (n=803). After adjustment on age, sexual dysfunction was significantly more frequent in women who had a history of BC: they had less frequent SI (OR 0.59 [0.54,0.64], p<0.001), experienced more pain during SI (OR 1.26 [1.16; 1.37], p<0.001) and were less satisfied with their sex life (OR 0.65 [0.60; 0.70], p<0.001).

Conclusions

Overall, in this real-life study in a large national cohort, history of BC appeared to be a risk factor for sexual disorders.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Efforts to detect sexual disorders in BC survivors and offer quality support must be pursued.
Short-Term Outcomes Following Total Correction of Tetralogy of Fallot in Adult Patients
Authors: Khajali Zahra , Mohammadi Nasibeh , Maleki Majid , Saedi Sedigheh , Norouzi Zeinab , Mazloum-Zadeh Saideh , Toluitabar Yaser , Chenaghlou Maryam , Jalali Amirhossein , Tatari Hasan , Aliramezany Maryam
Published: April 2023

Objectivs:
Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a common congenital heart disease which should be corrected. The recommended time for the Tetralogy of Fallot Total Correction (TFTC) surgery is during the infancy for the possible difficulties during the surgery and the related issues. However, sometimes TOF is diagnosed and managed during the adulthood.
Methods
This study is a descriptive and retrospective one which included all patients who underwent TFTC at age of 15-year and older in a 10 -year period (between the years 2010 and 2020) to identify short-term (including in-hospital mortality, ICU Length of stay, respiratory complications after the surgery such as: pulmonary edema, pneumonia and etc. and bleeding after the surgery) and one-year (including left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), right ventricle (RV) ejection fraction, severity of tricuspid regurgitation and aortic regurgitation after surgery) outcomes. All data were taken from medical records at Shahid Rajaei Hear Center. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.
Results
94 patients with the mean age of 26.7 ± 9.6 years were enrolled. Most of them were male (59.6%) (P-value: 0.009). In-hospital mortality in our study were 5.3%. Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) was significantly resolved after the surgery (P-value: 0.006). Also, the correction of pulmonary size after the surgery was significant (P-value: 0.000).
Conclusion
This study showed that the surgery at older age is safe and the results are acceptable. Aging is not a contraindication for TFTC and surgery should be recommended if the patients are diagnosed with TOF at adulthood. Also, screening TOF in adult patients should be considered.
PLANTS+: Improving Ant Colony Algorithms for Drug Design
Authors: Donati Luca , Fackeldey Konstantin , Weber Marcus
Published: April 2023

Docking is a fundamental problem in computational biology that seeks to predict a ligand's binding mode and affinity to a target protein. The accurate prediction of protein-ligand interactions is crucial for drug discovery and design. However, the large search space size and the complexity of the underlying physical interactions make docking a challenging task requiring advanced computational techniques. Here, we review the PLANTS method, based on the ant colony optimization algorithm, that determines the optimal pose and ranks a set of molecules based on their binding affinity. PLANTS analyzes each ligand individually, then for each candidate, it solves a minimization problem. As an alternative, we propose PLANTS+, which considers all energy functions collectively and solves one single minimization problem. Our benchmark test results indicate that PLANTS+ outperforms PLANTS in accuracy and efficiency.
Estimating subnational prevalence trends of cardiovascular disease risk factors, tobacco use, overweight, and obesity in East Africa using adaptive kernel density estimation for survey data
Authors: Keino Barbara Chebet , Carrel Margaret
Published: April 2023

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Overweight/obesity and tobacco use are modifiable CVD risk factors, however literature about the spatiotemporal dynamics of these risk factors in the region at subnational or local scales is lacking. We describe the spatiotemporal trends of overweight/obesity and tobacco use at subnational and subpopulation levels over a 13-year period (2003 to 2016) in five East African nations.Methods:Cross-sectional, nationally representative Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) were used to explore the subnational spatiotemporal patterns of tobacco use and overweight/obesity in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda, five East African Community (EAC) nations with unique cultural landscapes influencing CVD risk factors. Adaptive kernel density estimation and logistic regression were used to determine the spatial distribution and change over time of CVD risk factors on a subnational and subpopulation (rural/urban) scale.Results: Subnational and subpopulation analysis shows that regional and national level analysis masks important trends in CVD risk factor prevalence. Overweight/obesity and tobacco use trends were not similar: overweight/obesity prevalence increased across most nations included in the study and the inverse was true for tobacco use prevalence. Urban populations in each nation were more likely to be overweight/obese than rural populations, although the magnitude of difference varied widely between nations. Although the prevalence of overweight/obesity increased over time in both urban and rural populations, spatial analysis revealed that the rate of change was not equal across all urban and rural areas. Rural populations were more likely to use tobacco than urban populations, though the likelihood of use varied substantially between nations. Additionally, spatial analysis showed that tobacco use was not distributed evenly over space: tobacco use increased in and around major cities and urban centers but declined in rural areas.Conclusions: We highlight the importance of de-homogenizing research about CVD risk factors in SSA. Studies of national prevalence trends for CVD risk factors mask important information about subpopulation and place-specific behavior and drivers of risk factor prevalence. Spatially explicit studies are vital to understand local drivers of risk factor trends which can in turn inform policy and public health intervention.
Minimally invasive resection of heart valve papillary fibroelastoma: two case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Phan Thuan Q. , Pham Chuong T.V. , Bui Vinh D.A. , Ho Thang D. , Le Thao N. , Nguyen Thanh V.T. , Nguyen Dang , Vuong Minh N. , Nguyen Dinh H.
Published: April 2023

Background: Cardiac papillary fibroelastomas are rare, accounting for approximately 10% of all cardiac tumors, with 44% of cases located on the aortic valve and only 15% of cases located on the tricuspid valve. However, the optimal management of papillary fibroelastomas remains varied.
Case Presentation:
We present two successful instances of treating heart valve papillary fibroelastomas through minimally invasive surgery. These cases involved heart valve papillary fibroelastomas located in two common sites: the aortic valve on the left heart, which was accessed via an upper hemi-sternotomy, and the tricuspid valve on the right heart, which was accessed via beating heart total thoracoscopy.
Conclusion:
The article consistently demonstrates the effectiveness of a minimally invasive surgical approach in managing heart valve papillary fibroelastomas. This study provides further evidence by presenting two cases of heart valve papillary fibroelastomas - one on the aortic valve and the other on the tricuspid valve - that were successfully treated using this approach, resulting in favorable outcomes.
LncRNA CCAT1 facilitates the progress of gastric cancer via the PTBP1/glycolysis axis
Authors: wang huixia , Liu Qingwei , Zhao Lianmei , Dai Suli , Tian Guo , Wei Xintong , Li Xiaoya , Zhang Cong , Shan Baoen
Published: April 2023

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive system. As a hallmark of cancer, energy-related metabolic reprogramming was manipulated by various factors, including lncRNAs. It has been shown that lncRNA CCAT1 is a key regulator involved in tumor development. Nevertheless, the exact underlying molecular mechanisms by which lncRNA CCAT1 acts in GC metabolic reprogramming are yet to be elucidated.
Methods: The expression of CCAT1 in GC tissues, serum, and exosome that was isolated from plasma and GC cell lines were detected by qRT-PCR. The gain and loss-function assays were performed to explore the role of CCAT1 on GC cells. Xenograft tumor formation models in nude mice were performed to estimate the proliferation of GC cells with CCAT1 stably knocking down in vivo. The proteins interacting with CCAT1 were first analyzed by online databases and further confirmed by RNA pull-down and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The expression of glycolytic signaling pathway-related proteins were probed using western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC).
Results: In this study, we identified that CCAT1 was remarkably enhanced in the tissues, serum, and plasma exosomes of GC patients as well as in GC cell lines. Functional experiments showed that knockdown of CCAT1 significantly reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro and in vivo, and also decreased glycolytic rate and the expression of glycolytic enzymes in GC cells, whereas overexpression of CCAT1 had opposing effects. Mechanically, CCAT1 interacted with PTBP1 and maintained its stability by inhibiting the ubiquitin-mediated degradation. As a critical splicing factor, PTBP1 induced a switch from PKM1 to PKM2, leading to an increase in the glycolysis of GC cells and ultimately promoting GC progression.
Conclusions: Our study exhibited that CCAT1 contributed to GC proliferation, migration and invasion via PTBP1 / glycolysis axis, making it a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in GC patients.
Metabolic functional profiles of microbial communities in methane production systems treating winery wastewater
Authors: Vital-Jacome Miguel , Carrillo-Reyes Julián , Buitrón Germán
Published: April 2023

Winery effluents are agro-industrial wastes that can be treated to produce methane in anaerobic digestion systems. Understanding how the process configuration and operating conditions affect the microbial communities and their metabolism is essential to improve the performance of these systems. This work aimed to compare the taxonomic and functional profiles of four process configurations of an anaerobic digestion system treating winery effluents. Taxonomic profiles were obtained by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene, and the Tax4Fun2 package was used to predict the functional profiles. Different genera predominated under three configurations in the acidogenic reactor, Sporolactobacillus, Prevotella and Acetobacter, respectively; however, the analysis indicated high functional redundancy among configurations. Methane production by the acetoclastic pathway was mainly related to Methanosaeta in the single-stage configuration and related to five different archaea genera in the two-stage configuration. Syntrophic acetate oxidation coupled to hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis predominated under thermophilic conditions, where Methanothermobacter had up to 65% of the relative abundance. The two-stage configuration was more stable due to the higher microbial diversity and functional redundancy than the single-stage; the microbial community in mesophilic conditions also had higher microbial diversity and functional redundancy than in thermophilic conditions; finally, applying harsher operating conditions reduces the microbial diversity and the stability of the process. This analysis provided valuable knowledge to understand and improve methane production in anaerobic digestion systems.
Association between intrarenal venous flow from Doppler ultrasonography and acute kidney injury in patients with sepsis in critical care: A prospective, exploratory observational study
Authors: Fujii Kenichiro , Nakayama Izumi , Izawa Junichi , Ishihara Takuma , Iida Noriko , Seo Yoshihiro , Yamamoto Masayoshi , Uenishi Norimichi , Terasawa Teruhiko , Iwata Mitsunaga
Published: April 2023

Background:
Intrarenal venous flow (IRVF) patterns assessed using Doppler renal ultrasonography are real-time bedside visualizations of renal vein hemodynamics. Although this technique has the potential to detect renal congestion during sepsis resuscitation, there have been few studies on this method. We aimed to examine the relationship between IRVF patterns, clinical parameters, and outcomes in critically ill adult patients with sepsis. We hypothesized that discontinuous IRVF was associated with elevated central venous pressure (CVP) and subsequent acute kidney injury (AKI) or death.
Methods:
We conducted a prospective observational study in two tertiary-care hospitals, enrolling adult patients with sepsis who stayed in the intensive care unit for at least 24 h, had central venous catheters placed, and received invasive mechanical ventilation. Renal ultrasonography was performed at the bedside, and IRVF patterns (discontinuous vs. continuous) were confirmed by a blinded assessor. The primary outcome was CVP obtained at the time of renal ultrasonography. We also repeatedly assessed a composite of Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes of Stage 3 AKI or death over the course of a week as a secondary outcome. The association of IRVF patterns with CVP was examined using Student's t-test (primary analysis) and that with composite outcomes was assessed using a generalized estimating equation analysis, to account for intra-individual correlations. A sample size of 32 was set in order to detect a 5-mmHg difference in CVP between IRVF patterns.
Results:
Of the 38 patients who met the eligibility criteria, 22 (57.9%) showed discontinuous IRVF patterns that suggested blunted renal venous flow. IRVF patterns were not associated with CVP (discontinuous flow group: mean 9.24 cm H2O [standard deviation: 3.19], continuous flow group: 10.65 cm H2O [standard deviation: 2.53], p=0.154). By contrast, the composite outcome incidence was significantly higher in the discontinuous IRVF pattern group (odds ratio: 9.92; 95% confidence interval: 2.12–46.58, p=0.004).
Conclusions:
IRVF patterns were not associated with CVP but were associated with subsequent AKI in critically ill adult patients with sepsis. IRVF may be useful for capturing renal congestion at the bedside that is related to clinical patient outcomes.