bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sarcopenia is associated with reduced 5-year survival in cirrhotic patients with age ≥ 65 and Child-Pugh score ≥ 7
Authors: Hou Wei , Wu Jing , Wang Kefei , Wang Zheng , Wang Zhongying , Chen Feng , Yu Hongwei , Meng Qinghua
Published: November 2022

Background
Sarcopenia is prevalent worldwide and has a detrimental effect on the quality of life in cirrhosis patients. This study aimed to explore how the 5-year survival rate differs between young and older cirrhotic patients, as well as between patients with and without sarcopenia.
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 320 cirrhotic patients. All patients were followed-up every 6 months for up to 5 years. Patients were divided into two groups (148 with sarcopenia and 172 without sarcopenia) according to the third lumbar skeletal muscle mass index [L3-SMI]. Furthermore, we compared difference in survival rates between young (< 65 years) and older patients, as well as between patients with and without sarcopenia.
Results
No significant difference was observed in clinical and biochemical parameters between young and old patients; however, significant difference was found in mid-arm muscle circumference, grip strength, and L3-SMI. Patients with sarcopenia were associated with worse 5-year survival rates than those without sarcopenia, regardless of their age group. Particularly, this effect was statistically significant in subgroups of Child-Pugh score ≥ 9. However, for patients aged 65 and over, the difference in 5-year survival rates between patients with and without sarcopenia was only statistically significant in subgroups of Child-Pugh score ≥ 7.
Conclusions
Sarcopenia is associated with poor prognosis of patients with cirrhosis. This effect is especially prominent in patients with age ≥ 65 and Child-Pugh score ≥ 7. Future studies focusing on nutritional intervention are warranted to confirm the effect of targeting sarcopenia on the long-term prognosis.
Dynamic and steady-state performance analysis of a linear solenoid parallel elastic actuator (LSPEA) with nonlinear stiffness
Authors: Lu Shizhou , Wang Chuchao , Luo Ansheng , Li Yu , Gao Gan , Gao Jun , Cheng Zhen , Liu Xiaohan
Published: November 2022

In order to predict and evaluate the response time and displacement of a large-stroke, high-speed micro-LSPEA under different currents and springs, numerical and analytical methods are used to obtain the dynamic and steady-state performance indicators of the nonlinear system. Firstly, the analytic functions of the electromagnetic force and the magnetic field distribution were presented. The nonlinear vibration equation was obtained by dynamic modeling. The averaging method and the KBM method were employed to obtain analytical solutions of the undamped system. The equivalent linearization of the damped nonlinear system was performed to obtain the approximate analytical solutions of performance indicators. Finally, the displacement of the actuator equipped with different springs was measured experimentally. Meanwhile, the transient network was constructed by Simulink software to solve the nonlinear equation numerically. The displacement curves and performance indicators obtained by experiment, numerical and analytical methods are compared. The maximum errors of the peak time, overshoot and steady displacement through experiment and simulation are 8.4 ms, 4.36% and 0.59 mm, respectively. The solution result of the vibration equation considering stiffness nonlinearity can reflect the dynamic and steady-state performance of the LSPEA within a certain error, which is helpful for the solution of nonlinear systems caused by multi-physics coupling.
Ab initio Real-Time Quantum Dynamics of Charge Carriers in Momentum Space
Authors: Zheng Zhenfa , Shi Yongliang , Zhou Jin-jian , Prezhdo Oleg , Zheng Qijing , Zhao Jin
Published: November 2022

Application of the nonadiabatic molecular dynamics (NAMD) approach is severely limited to studying carrier dynamics in the momentum space, since a supercell is required to sample the phonon excitation and electron-phonon (e-ph) interaction at different momenta in a molecular dynamics simulation. Here, we develop an ab initio approach for the real-time quantum dynamics for charge carriers in the momentum space (NAMD_k) by directly introducing the e-ph coupling into the Hamiltonian based on the harmonic approximation. The NAMD_k approach maintains the quantum zero-point energy and proper phonon dispersion, and includes memory effects of phonon excitation. The application of NAMD_k to the hot carrier dynamics in graphene reveals the phonon-specic relaxation mechanism. An energy threshold of 0.2 eV, defined by two optical phonon modes strongly coupled to the electrons, separates the hot electron relaxation into fast and slow regions with the lifetimes of pico- and nano-seconds, respectively. The NAMD_k approach provides a powerful tool to understand real-time carrier dynamics in the momentum space for different materials.
In situ genesis of selective adsorption sites by complex catalytic redox dynamics
Authors: Sandoval-Diaz Luis , Cruz Daniel , Götsch Thomas , Plodinec Milivoj , Hammud Adnan , Ivanov Danail , Hävecker Michael , Schlögl Robert , Knop-Gericke Axel , Lunkenbein Thomas
Published: November 2022

Several in situ studies have revealed spatiotemporal dynamics on heterogeneous catalysts surfaces under chemical stimuli1-4, which presumably control the activity, selectivity, and productivity5-11. However, operando validations of sufficient spacetime resolution12 are often missing, and hence, the effect of these dynamics on catalytic performance may not be entirely clear. Here, using dry reforming of methane over Ni as an example, we demonstrate the relevance of catalytic redox dynamics for reaction performance and determine their genesis from adaptive chemistry and continual catalytic cycling. By combining operando scanning electron microscopy and near-ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, we found that activation sites for methane and carbon dioxide differed but continually transformed into each other during the reaction. This behavior enabled a self-sustained oscillating regime evincing the sequential formation of active sites. We also found that not all spatiotemporal dynamics accounted for the catalytic function. We highlight the importance of oscillating reactions for mechanistic studies and propose that the generation of mechanical strain at the catalyst during redox cycling acted as a feedback element for the oscillations. These observations lead to deeper understanding of fundamental catalysis and open new opportunities for tuning catalytic performances.
Magnetic pomegranate peels activated carbon (MG-PPAC) composite for Acid Orange 7 dye removal from wastewater
Authors: Khalil Asmaa , Nazir Muhammad Altaf , Salem Mohamed , Ragab Safaa , Nemr Ahmed El
Published: November 2022

A magnetic pomegranate peels activated carbon (MG-PPAC) composite was prepared as an effective adsorbent for Acid Orange 7 (AO7) dye removal from wastewater. The effects of impregnation ratio and activation temperatures (600–900°C) on the specific surface area, and pore morphology were studied. The synthesized composite MG-PPAC was considered by BET, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, XRD and VSM. The prepared magnetic composite at 700°C activation temperature and impregnation ratio 1/2 (peels/ZnCl2) exhibited 513.34 m2 g− 1 surface area, 0.4025 cm3 g–1 volume of the total pores, and 3.1364 nm mean diameter of the pores. The magnetization saturation (Ms), remanence (Mr) and coercivity (Hc) of the MG-PPA composite were 14.116 emu/g, 0.50685 emu/g, and 19.705 G, respectively. Also, the composite MG-PPAC was in a super-paramagnetic state at room temperature and could be gathered within 5 S (less than 5 S) with an external magnetic field. Impact of pH, adsorbent dose, initial concentration of adsorbate (AO7 dye), and time of contact have been studied to optimize the removal process. The Langmuir (LIM), Freundlich (FIM) and Tempkin (TIM) isotherm models were used to investigate MG-PPAC adsorption behavior for AO7 dye. Applicability of Langmuir isotherm model (LIM) demonstrates a monolayer adsorption AO7 dye removal process, and the maximum monolayer capacity (Qm) attained from linear solvation of LIM is 322.58 mg g–1. Also, the adsorption process was tested using PFOM, PSOM, IPDM, FDM, and E. The pseudo-second order model is well-fitted to the operational data of AO7 dye removal (R2 = 0.983–1.0) related to the other kinetic models.
Association between serum uric acid and fasting plasma glucose level in non-diabetic, pre-diabetic and diabetic adults: a population-based study in China
Authors: Liu Yining , Liang Peifeng , Chen Chen , Shi Hongjuan , Luan Hong , Shi Chao
Published: November 2022

Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in a general population from Northwest China.
Methods: The current study used data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, which investigated the prevalence and risk factors of cardiovascular disease. All subjects underwent SUA and FPG test. Generalized additive model and two-piece wise linear regression models were applied to explore the relationships between SUA and FPG level. Triglyceride-glucose (TyG) was further taken as the index of insulin resistance, and its mediating effects on the association between SUA and FPG level was analyzed.
Results: A total of 10 217 individuals aged 18 and over were included in the current analysis. Generalized additive models verified the inverted U-shaped association between SUA and FPG level and the inflection points of FPG levels in the curves were 6.5mmol/L in male and 8.8mmol/L in female respectively. TyG is an intermediate variable in the relationship between SUA and elevated FPG level, the mediating effect of which are 12.82% (P<0.001) and 34.02% (P<0.001) in male and female respectively.
Conclusions: Inverted U-shaped associations between FPG and SUA levels were observed in both genders. The threshold of FPG level was generally lower in male than in female. The association is partly mediated through insulin insistence.
A Dual Functional Ti-Ga Alloy: Inhibiting Biofilm Formation and Osteoclastogenesis Differentiation via Disturbing Iron Metabolism
Authors: Li Fupeng , Huang Kai , Yuan Kai , Yang Yiqi , Liu Yihao , Zhou Xianhao , Kong Keyu , Yang Tao , He Jian , Ao Haiyong , Liu Qian , Tang Tingting , yang shengbing
Published: November 2022

Background Although biomedical implants have been widely used in orthopedic treatments, two major clinical challenges remained to be solved, one is the bacterial infection resulting in biofilm formation, and the other is aseptic loosening during implantation due to over-activated osteoclastogenesis. These factors can cause many clinical issues and even lead to implant failure. Thus, it is necessary to endow implants with antibiofilm and aseptic loosening-prevention properties, to facilitate the integration between implants and bone tissues for successful implantation. To achieve this goal, this study aimed to develop a biocompatible titanium alloy with antibiofilm and anti-aseptic loosening dual function by utilizing gallium (Ga) as a component. Methods A series of Ti-Ga alloys were prepared. We examined the Ga content, Ga distribution, hardness, biocompatibility, and anti-biofilm performancein vitroandin vivo. We also explored how Ga3+ions inhibited the biofilm formation ofS. aureusandE. coliand osteoclast differentiation. Results The alloy exhibited outstanding antibiofilm properties against bothS. aureusandE. coli in vitroand decent antibiofilm performance againstS. aureus in vivo. The proteomics results demonstrated that Ga3+ions could disturb the bacterial Fe metabolism of bothS. aureusandE. coli, inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation. In addition, Ti-Ga alloys could inhibit receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-dependent osteoclast differentiation and function by targeting iron metabolism, then suppressing the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, thus, showing their potential to prevent aseptic loosening. Conclusions This study provides an advanced Ti-Ga alloy that can be used as a promising orthopedic implant raw material for various clinical scenarios. This work also revealed that iron metabolism is the common target of Ga3+ions to inhibit biofilm formation and osteoclast differentiation.
RNA-sep analysis of circular RNAs and ceRNA networks in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yicun , Dong Zhixing , Chen Weijie , Cheng Tiaochun , Chen Lin , Ju Linling , Cai Weihua , Luo Xi , Bian Zhaolian
Published: November 2022

Objective
An increasing number of circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as emerging competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) that play important roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but numerous circRNAs remain unexplored. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of action of differentially expressed circRNAs and their ceRNA networks in HCC.
Methods
Second-generation sequencing technology was used to analyse the expression of circRNAs in cancerous and paired paraneoplastic tissues from five patients with HCC. The circRNAs with a P value of less than 0.01, with an original signal value greater than 100 and ranked among the top ten upregulated circRNAs were selected and validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR) in paired cancer and paraneoplastic tissues from another 34 HCC patients. The downstream miRNAs and mRNAs of the circRNAs were explored through database analysis, and finally, the ceRNA networks and circRNA–miRNA–mRNA axes based on these ten circRNAs were constructed.
Results
By sequencing, we identified 9658 differentially expressed circRNAs on all chromosomes, of which 3862 were significantly upregulated and 5796 were significantly downregulated. RT-qPCR was performed to validate the top ten upregulated circRNAs, and the results were generally consistent with the sequencing results. After qRT‒PCR validation, five circRNAs (hsa_circ_0079875, hsa_circ0091580, hsa_circ0091581, hsa_circ0004788 and hsa_circ_0059730) were selected for further analysis. First, the downstream miRNAs and mRNAs of these five circRNAs were predicted to construct circRNA-miRNA‒mRNA network diagrams. The 1482 upregulated mRNAs identified in the GEPIA database overlapped with the 278 mRNAs in the ceRNA networks, and 14 overlapping genes were identified. Further bioinformatics analysis revealed four mRNAs (ADSL, AP3B1, MAPRE1, and TRNP1) and five circRNA–miRNA–mRNA axes that were negatively correlated with HCC prognosis.
Conclusions
Numerous differentially expressed circRNAs exist in HCC, and most can regulate the biological behaviour of HCC through circRNA-miRNA‒mRNA networks. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the ceRNA regulatory axes in HCC have high diagnostic and prognostic value and deserve further exploration. This study aims to provide new research ideas related to HCC pathogenesis and treatment options.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids protect neurological function after traumatic brain injury by suppressing microglial transformation to the proinflammatory phenotype and activating exosomal NGF/TrkA signaling
Authors: lin long , Zheng Shaorui , Lai Jinqing , Ye Dan , Huang Qiaomei , Wu Zhe , Chen Xiangrong , wang shousen
Published: November 2022

The transformation of microglia to a pro-inflammatory phenotype at the site of traumatic brain injury (TBI) drives the progression of secondary neurodegeneration and irreversible neurological impairment. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been shown to suppress this phenotype transformation, thereby reducing neuroinflammation following TBI, but the molecular mechanisms are unknown. We found that Omega-3 PUFA suppressed the expression of disintegrin metalloproteinase (ADAM17), the enzyme required to convert tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α) to the soluble form, thereby inhibiting the TNF-α/NF-κB pathway both in vitro and in a mouse model of TBI. Omega-3 PUFA also prevented the reactive transformation of microglia and promoted the secretion of microglial exosomes containing nerve growth factor (NGF), activating the neuroprotective NGF/TrkA pathway both in culture and TBI model mice. Moreover, Omega-3 PUFA suppressed the pro-apoptotic NGF/P75NTR pathway at the TBI site and reduced apoptotic neuronal death, brain edema, and disruption of the blood–brain barrier. Finally, Omega-3 PUFA preserved sensory and motor function as assessed by two broad-spectrum test batteries. The beneficial effects of Omega-3 PUFA were blocked by an ADAM17 promotor and by a NGF inhibitor, confirming the pathogenic function of ADAM17 and the central neuroprotective role of NGF. Collectively, these findings provide a strong experimental basis for Omega-3 PUFA as a potential clinical treatment for TBI.
A Conservative Hyperchaostic Memristor System with Extreme Multistability
Authors: Li Yuxia , Du Tianyi , Chang Hui , Wang Mingfa , Zhang Kun
Published: November 2022

This paper proposes a voltage-controlled memristor and constructs its simulation circuit by series-parallel connections with other electronic components. Based on it, a nonlinear system is designed and comprehensively analyzed. And it is found that the system has two Lyapunov exponents greater than zero and the sum of all Lyapunov exponents is approximately zero. This indicates that the system is a conservative hyperchaotic system. Phase diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, Poincare maps, power spectrums, etc. are used to analyze the complex dynamics of the system. Surprisingly, a type of quasiperiod-hyperchaos switching and an infinite number of coexistence attractors are explored. And the Multisim circuit is constructed. simulation of the system verifies the correctness of the theoretical analysis.
Transurethral en bloc resection of a bladder perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa): a case report
Authors: Zeng Shi-Ping , Sun Yi-Fei , Ye Jun-Bing , Zeng Ke , Li Xiao-Bin
Published: November 2022

Background:
Perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) is a mesenchymal tumor with distinct histologic and immunologic features. PEComa originating in the bladder is extremely rare clinically, with only 35 cases reported in the English literature so far. We report the first case of bladder PEComa resection by transurethral en bloc resection of bladder tumor (ERBT).
Case presentation:
A 66-year-old woman presented to our hospital with an ultrasound finding of a slightly strong echogenic mass of about 1.5×1.3×1.3 cm in size on the posterior wall of the bladder. The patient did not have any clinical symptoms during the disease. The enhanced computed tomography and enhanced magnetic resonance imaging after admission both suggested a well-defined isolated nodular mass on the posterior wall of the bladder with significant enhancement on the enhanced scan. The tumor was successfully and completely resected by ERBT. Postoperative pathological examination and immunohistochemical results confirmed that the mass was bladder PEComa. No tumor recurrence was observed in the six-month postoperative follow-up.
Conclusions:
Bladder PEComa is an extremely rare mesenchymal tumor of the urinary system. When imaging and cystoscopy revealed a nodular mass with an abundant blood supply in the bladder, PEComa should be included in the differential diagnosis of bladder tumors. Surgical resection is currently the main option for the treatment of bladder PEComa. For solitary, with pedicle, narrow-basal, small-sized bladder PEComa, resection of the tumor by ERBT is safe and feasible.
An Eye Movement Analysis of Differential Outcomes Training: The Role of Inhibition
Authors: Plaza Victoria , Tannion Kyran , Arnal Lorena A. , Gerhardstein Peter , Estévez Ángeles F. , Fuentes Luis J.
Published: November 2022

When differential outcomes follow correct responses to each of multiple to-be-learned associations between a sample stimulus and a comparison stimulus (the differential outcomes procedure, DOP), performance is significantly better in comparison with when the associated stimuli and the outcomes are matched randomly (the non-differential outcomes procedure, NOP). In the present study we aimed to explore the effects of using the DOP versus the NOP in participants performing an eye-movement version of the matching-to-sample task. In the first phase, participants were presented with a sample stimulus followed by an associated comparison stimulus, and then a third stimulus served as the outcome that was presented according to the DOP or NOP scheme. In the second phase, after the sample stimulus, a comparison stimulus display was presented containing the associated stimulus (i.e., the relevant stimulus associated with the sample stimulus), the non-associated stimulus (i.e., the irrelevant stimulus associated with the other sample stimulus), and two distractor stimuli. Eye movements were recorded for each type of comparison stimulus. When we compared the pattern of eye movements between the DOP and NOP, we observed a tendency to produce a lower number of refixations to the associated comparison stimulus and a significant higher number of refixations to the non-associated and distractor comparison stimuli in the DOP compared to the NOP. These results suggest that in the first phase of the DOP, during each sample-comparison trial, the non-presented sample-comparison pair was inhibited, requiring more glances for identification during the second phase. Here we provide first evidence for the role of inhibitory processes in the context of the DOP.
Exploring chia seed for development of functional cookies-nutritional, phytochemical, textural, amino acid and fatty acid profiling
Authors: Jan Tabeen , Hussain Syed Zameer , Rafiq Aasima , Naseer Bazila , Naqash Saadiya , Shafi Fauzia
Published: November 2022

Salvia hispanica (Chia seeds) are considered as novel super food due to its superior nutritional, phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential which drives its increased utilization. This study was aimed to formulate nutritionally enriched cookies by utilizing Chia seed as a functional component.The chia seed flour proportion (5–80%), baking time (9–18 minutes), and baking temperature(150–175°C) were varied by Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD). Based on the desirable cookie characteristics and overall acceptability, design expert predicted that the cookies prepared using chia seed flour: wheat flour (20:80), baking temperature (170°C) and baking time (16min) were highly acceptable. Nutritional composition of cookies enriched with chia seeds revealed the enhancement in protein, fat, minerals, and vitamins. The enrichment of cookies with chia seed improved the bioactive composition as well. The antioxidant activity and total phenolic contentwas54% and 65% higher in developed cookies compared to market one. Overall, an increase in the fatty acid profile was observed viz. α-linolenic acid enhanced from 7.1 to 22%, linolenic acid from 4.6 to 18% and oleic acid from 9.5 to 14.6% in market cookies and optimized chia seed flour incorporated cookies, respectively. Among the minerals significant increase was observed in calcium and phosphorus levels. Lysine, methionine and valine showed a significant increase as compared to market sample. The results implied that chia seed can be successfully used in formulating nutritionally superior cookies with better sensory and textural acceptability.
Clinical characteristics and gene mutation analysis of a family with hereditary spastic paraplegia type 11
Authors: Luo Aidi , Xu Zucai , Liao Shusheng
Published: November 2022

Background：Autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia with thinning of corpus callosum (ARHSP-TCC) is a complex hereditary spastic paraplegia. Spastic Paraplegia gene 11(SPG11) is the most common ARHSP-TCC. The study of SPG11 in China is small in scale, and only a few gene mutations have been reported .
Case Presentation:We reported a family with ARHSP-TCC. The proband presented spastic gait and cognitive impairment. Brain MRI showed thinning of corpus callosum. The proband's brother shows only a spastic gait. A detailed history, physical examination, and supplementary examination were performed to rule out the acquired cause of spastic paraplegia. In order to identify pathogenic mutations, we used target sequence capture sequencing technology to detect HSP-related genes in family members, combined with Sanger sequencing verification, and found two new complex heterozygous mutations of SPG11: c.6738_6739insT and c.5934_5935insTAACCTGGAA. The codon of Glu2247 amino acid changed to stop codon (p.Glu2247Ter) and that of Val1979 amino acid changed to stop codon (p.Val1979ter), respectively. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that these mutations would result in a loss of protein function.
Conclusions: We found two novel complex heterozygous mutations of SPG11 : c.6738_6739insT and c.5934_5935insTAACCTGGAA，which enriches the phenotype of SPG11 mutations.
Low Concentration PAMAM Dendrimer Coated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles – Potentials in MR Imaging and Theranostics
Authors: Lotey Navjeet Kaur , Chaughule Ramesh , Pednekar Suhas
Published: November 2022

MRI is a highly sensitive, non-invasive diagnostic tools which reveals information from within deep layers of tissues. Contrast agents are used to enhance the image contrast to detect otherwise difficult to identify morphological anomalies. There is need and scope to improvise the contrast properties and biocompatibility quotient of the existing agents. In this research we’ve explored dendrimer coated SPIONs as highly effective contrast agents with excellent in-vitro biocompatibility. They exhibit significant contrast in T2 weighted images in very low concentrations which is studied using a clinical MR imager. It was concluded that although SPIONs alone exhibit the highest contrast efficacy, the coating with dendrimers improvises their biocompatibility and dispersion even at very low concentrations.
Can 2-hour Indirect Calorimetry Measurement Accurately Predict 24-hour Energy Expenditure in Critically Ill Surgical Patients?
Authors: Lichter Yael , Sold Oded , Angel Yoel , Nizri Eran , Gerstenhaber Fabian , Oz Amir Gal , Stavi Dekel , Nini Asaph , Singer Pierre , Goder Noam
Published: November 2022

Background
Measuring energy expenditure (EE) by indirect calorimetry (IC) has become the gold standard tool for critically ill patients in order to define energy targets and tailor nutrition. Debate remains as to the optimal duration of measurements, or the optimal time of day in which to perform IC.
Methods
In this retrospective observational study, we analyzed results of daily continuous IC in 270 mechanically ventilated, critically ill patients, admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) in a tertiary medical center, and compared measurements performed at different hours of the day.
Results
A total of 51,448 IC hours was recorded, with an average 24-hour EE of 1523 ± 443 kcal/day. Night shift (00:00–8:00) was found to have a significantly lower EE measurements (mean 1498 kcal/day, 95% CI 1445–1551), than afternoon (16:00–00:00, mean 1526 kcal/day 95% CI 1473–1577) and morning (8:00–16:00, mean 1539 kcal/day, 95% CI 1483–1594) measurements (p < 0.001 for all). The bihourly time frame which most closely resembled the daily mean was 18:00–19:59, with a mean of 1523 ± 434 kcal/day. Daily EE measurements of the continuous IC at days 3–7 of admission showed a trend towards a daily increase in 24-hour EE, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.077).
Conclusions
Periodic measurements of EE can differ slightly when performed in various hours of the day, but the error range is small and may not necessarily have a clinical impact. When continuous IC is not available, a 2-hour EE measurement between 18:00–19:59 can serve as a reasonable alternative.
A study on integrated management of life-responsive data to secure social safety net for the vulnerable class
Authors: won anna , Lee Ji-Ae , Hong wonhwa
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to secure a social safety net such as the prevention of loneliness by targeting the elderly and single households for the vulnerable class in this study. In this regard, elements that are essential in basic life were defined as life-responsive information, and methods for data collection and linkage with the welfare system were sought. Life responsive data was defined as indoor motion detection and door open detection sensors based on the energy consumption data required by home appliances used on a daily basis. In addition, public data such as electric power companies were linked in order to link with the energy welfare system. As a result, various life-response information was collected according to the characteristics of each household, and the characteristics of an elderly single household were derived. In the future, in order to secure energy welfare and social safety net at the same time, it is thought that it will be possible to collect data accumulated over the four seasons and use it to secure a safety net for the elderly.
Assessment of common carp testis as an alternative to 17α Methyltestosterone for sex reversal of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus)
Authors: Asad Farkhanda , Tasadaq Manahil , Jamal Rafia , Anwar Noshaba
Published: November 2022

The sex reversion technique in fish is widespread in many countries. The present study aimed to produce a monosex populations of all male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) using 17α-methyltestosterone (17α-MT) and common carp testes (as a source of natural androgen). The experiment was divided into two consecutive phases, the first was fry administration with negative control (without hormone) and positive control (with hormone)feed viz.,MT1:60mg/kg, MT2:70mg/kg (17α-MT),carp testis CT1:70% and CT2:80%for 30 days to reverse the sex of male fish and second phase was nursing the fingerlings for two months on control diet (32%CP).Two hundred fry of 4–5 days old were randomly stocked in five aquariums each with one replicate (20fry/aquarium)using completely randomized design (CRD). Results revealed a significant growth rate (P < 0.05) in control group. In case of proximal chemical composition of body meat, CT2 treatment showed maximum deposition of crude protein, crude fat, and ash whereas dry matter showed maximum in MT2 and CT1 treatments. The highest male proportion (95% ± 0.58%) was recorded at 70mg/kg MT, which was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than other groups.These results suggested that synthetic and natural androgen supplementation in the diet play a significant role in improving the growth performance and body composition. Furthermore, synthetic androgen compared to natural androgens played a significant role to induce sex inversion.
Factors Associated with Delayed Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Miao feng , Shao Rong , Wang Wenrui , Xie Jinping
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND
Delayed diagnosis is a major barrier to the effective management of Crohn's disease (CD). Several studies have investigated factors responsible for delays in diagnosis, but no meta-analyses have systematically assessed the impact of these factors.
AIM
To assess the impact of various factors on the delayed diagnosis of CD.
METHODS
PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify observational studies published before April 2022 that assessed factors associated with delays in CD diagnosis. We excluded review articles, case reports, or commentaries without original data.We pooled effect sizes as odds ratios (OR) using random effects models for each risk factor examined in at least three distinct samples. We assessed study quality on the basis of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and examined between-study heterogeneity. A funnel plot was used for visual assessment of publication bias. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022322251.
RESULTS
A total of 18 studies were included in the paper, covering 13 countries. The study sample consisted of 9,669 cases. Ileal CD (OR =1.46, 95% CI =1.21–1.76), smoking at the time of diagnosis (OR =1.19, 95% CI =1.02–1.38), and use of NSAIDs (OR =1.34, 95% CI =1.04–1.72) were significantly associated with a delay in CD diagnosis.
CONCLUSION
The findings suggest that ileal CD, use of NSAIDs, and smoking are risk factors for the delayed diagnosis of CD. Education of patients and primary care providers about these risk factors should be increased.
Application of silicon coupled with sulfate improve the drought tolerance in sunflower via modulating the morpho-physiological and antioxidants defense mechanisms
Authors: Nisar Muhammad , Aqeel Muhammad , Sattar Abdul , Sher Ahmad , Ijaz Muhammad , Ul-Allah Sami , Irfan Muhammad , Javaid Muhammad Mansoor , Rasheed Umair , Ali Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Background ​Sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) is one of the main oilseed crops as an essential dietary component used for human and animal feed. Due to changing climate scenarios, severe drought conditions adversely affect growth and productivity of sunflower. The current study was planned to investigate the potential of sole and combined application of silicon (Si) and sulfate (SO4) to improve sunflowers' morpho-physiological, yield and yield traits under water deficit conditions. Methods There were two factors in the experimental treatments; i) two levels of irrigation regimes, 80% water holding capacity (WHC) and 40% WHC and ii) control (Ck), water spray, 4.0 mM Si, 4.0 mM SO4and Si + SO4(4.0 mM + 4.0 mM). Drought stress was imposed at the 50% heading stage of sunflower. Results Drought stress reduced leaf chlorophyll pigments and relative water contents. In contrast, it diminished the growth and production of sunflower by reducing plant height, stem girth, head diameter, leaf area index, numbers of achene per head, 100-achene weight, biological yield and achene yield per plant. Results of the study indicated that Chl a, b, and a + b and relative water contents significantly increased with sole and combined application of Si and SO4under drought stress condition. Moreover; remarkably improved antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was recorded along with the accumulation of soluble proline and protein with the combined application of Si and SO4under drought stress. The combined application of Si and SO4improved the sunflower growth by enhancing plant height (17%), stem girth (17.66%), head diameter (18.15%), leaf area index (17.80%), number of achene per head (19.46%), 100- achene weight (10.70%), biological yield (17.12%) and achene yield per plant (17.21%). Conclusions The combined application of Si and SO4is the best option to alleviate the adversities of drought stress for the growth and development of sunflower.
Lower Attenuation and Higher Kurtosis of Coronary Artery Calcification Associated with Vulnerable Plaque – An Agatston Score Propensity-matched CT Radiomics study
Authors: Huang Eric , Lin Huey-Shyan , Chen Yi-Chun , Li Yi-He , Huang Yi-Luan , Ju Yu-Jeng , Yu Hsien-Chung , Kicska Gregory A. , Wu Ming-Ting
Published: November 2022

Background:
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) burden assessed by Agatston score (AS) is currently recommended to stratify patients at risk for future acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Besides the CAC burden, the biostructure of CAC may also play a vital role in the vulnerability of CAC, which CT radiomics could reveal. Propensity-score matching of the traditional risk factors and CAC burden between the ACS and asymptomatic groups could radically remove biases and allow exploration of characteristic features of CAC in ACS.
Methods:
We retrospectively identified 77 patients with ACS who had a CAC scan before percutaneous coronary intervention between 2016–2019. These 77 patients were one-to-two propensity-score matched for traditional risk factors of ACS and AS ranks to select 154 subjects from 2890 asymptomatic subjects. A validation cohort of 30 subjects was also enrolled. Radiomics features of each plaque were extracted and averaged in each person. Conditional logistic regression and area under curve analysis was used for statistical analysis.
Results:
A higher number of coronary segments involved, lower mean, median, first quartile, and standard deviation of attenuation, and increased kurtosis of attenuation of CAC were associated with the ACS group compared to the control group (p < 0.05 for all). Multivariable analysis showed that the lower median attenuation (OR = 0.969, p < 0.001) and higher Kurtosis (OR = 18.7, p < 0.001) were associated with the ACS group. The median attenuation and kurtosis significantly increase across AS ranks 1 to 4 (p = 0.001). The AUC of kurtosis (0.727) and median attenuation (0.66) were both significantly higher than that of the standard AS (AUC = 0.502) and the number of TRF (AUC = 0.537). The best cut-off of kurtosis at 2.74 yielded an accuracy of 74%, and the cut-off of median attenuation at 196 yielded an accuracy of 68%. The accuracy of kurtosis was 64%, and the accuracy of median attenuation was 55% in the validation cohort.
Conclusion:
After propensity-matching traditional risk factors and CAC burden, CT radiomics highlighted that lower median attenuation and higher kurtosis were the CAC characteristics of vulnerable plaques. These features improve the understanding of the biomechanics of CAC evolution and enhance the value of CAC scan in ACS risk assessment.
Debris and mud-flows runout assessment: a comparison among empirical geometric equations in the Giampilieri and Briga basins (east Sicily, Italy) affected by the event of 1st October 2009
Authors: Falconi Luca Maria , Moretti Lorenzo , Puglisi Claudio , Righini Gaia
Published: November 2022

Empirical/geometric methods rely on simple geometrical connections between some landslide parameters and the runout distance reached by the displaced material. Despite the extreme simplification of the dynamic of this landslide typology, those methods can provide useful information about the propagation of this shallow and fast landslide typology, joining reliability of the results with easiness of use.
The objective of this work is to compare the efficacy of different geometric relationships for the identification of the runout distances in a debris and mud-flows prone test area located in Sicily, southern Italy, where several events were analysed, and a consistent set of data was collected and processed.
Notwithstanding some uncertainties in the methodological approach and not negligible scattering between expected and observed runout distances, the use of such geometric approaches, together with the evaluation of kinematic parameters such as velocity and kinetic energy, can significantly boost the implementation of site-specific analyses for a more detailed definition of landslides susceptibility at local scale.
Targeted Vibration-Induced Necrosis in Cancer Cells using Microrobots
Authors: Mallick Sudipta , Sokolich Max , Rivas David , Das Sambeeta
Published: November 2022

Therapeutic delivery of anti-cancer drugs is a major goal of modern medicine. In particular, microrobots (MRs) have recently been studied for their ability to navigate difficult-to-reach regions in the human body to deliver therapeutics for microscopically localized interventions. However, the control of individual and swarms of MRs to precisely target localized cellular regions remains a significant challenge, preventing their applications as delivery systems in cancer research. In this study, magnetic MRs were used to target cancer cells and create localized magnetic oscillations which resulted in magnetolysis of cancer cells. The magnetic MRs were selectively steered towards Hepatocarcinoma cells (HepG2 cells) using our custom-built magnetic controller under a rotating magnetic field at different frequencies. After internalization of the microrobots by cancer cells, magnetic oscillation of varying dosages was applied to disrupt the internal structure of cancer cells which leads to subsequent cell death.
Puerperal sepsis: Bacterial profile, Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and Associated factors at Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital, Central Ethiopia: Cross sectional study
Authors: Godana Abduselam Abbiso , Gashaw Mulatu , Abdulsemed Kedir Abdella , Adere Fikru , Gebrie Getenet Beyene
Published: November 2022

Background: Sepsis is a major cause of maternal death worldwide and caused by a variety of bacterial pathogens. In many developing countries including Ethiopia, the treatment of puerperal sepsis is based on empirical/syndromic that may promote antimicrobial resistance. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate bacterial pathogens, their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and associated factors among women with suspected puerperal sepsis.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among puerperal sepsis suspected women attending Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital, from September 2020 to August 2021. A total of 174 study participants were enrolled. Sociodemographic and obstetric data of the participants were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and checklist respectively. About 20 ml blood sample was collected from all study participants into BacT/ALERT® 3D blood culture bottles and incubated into BacT/ALERT® 3D automated blood culture system. Endocervical swab was also collected into Aime's transport media. Bacterial isolation and identification was done using standard bacteriological methods. Disc diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of bacterial isolates. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and transferred to SPSS version 25.0 for analysis.
Results: The overall positivity rate of bacterial isolates among puerperal sepsis suspected women was 48.9%. Out of these 87.1% of the isolates were Gram negative bacteria. The most common isolates were E. coli (54.1%) followed by Klebsiella spp. (23.5%) and S. aureus (10.6%). E. coli showed a higher resistance rate to Piperacillin (87%). Klebsiella spp. showed a higher resistance rate to Aztreonam (65%) and Ceftriaxone (65%). S. aureus showed a higher resistance rate to Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (66.6%). In this study, 81.2% of the isolates were multi-drug resistant bacterial pathogens. Multivariate regression analysis showed no statistically significant association between sociodemographic, obstetrics factors, and having bacteria.
Conclusion: In this study the overall positivity rate in this study was 48.9%. E. coli, Klebsiella species, and S. aureus were the most common isolated bacteria. High numbers of multidrug-resistant bacterial isolates were identified. Our finding emphasizes the need for strengthening microbiology services for better management of patients.
The effects of restricted access to healthcare and education on vulnerable people: an analysis of the determinants of health and education outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gineikytė-Kanclerė Vaida , Klimavičiūtė Luka , Schito Marco
Published: November 2022

This study investigates how restrictions in healthcare access and school closures in European countries during the COVID-19 pandemic affected health and education outcomes among two groups of vulnerable people: the elderly and the youth. These groups are vulnerable in that they are more susceptible to social changes and less capable of adapting, either because of individual characteristics or pre-existing structural inequalities. We employ multi-level modelling using data from SHARE and Eurofound’s survey on living and working under COVID-19. The findings show that elderly people have, on average, perceived a worsening in general and mental health, especially among women and those to whom medical care was restricted. Students suffered the most when their households’ socio-economic status and digital divides presented significant barriers to adapting to online schooling. Our findings corroborate national-level studies from both within and outside the EU, particularly concerning the gender dimension, access to healthcare, pre-existing socio-economic inequalities, and digital divides. We conclude with some policy implications and the necessity to craft preventive policies to make the social system more resilient in responding to future crises.
Experimental and numerical investigations of cutting forces and chip formation during micro-cutting of Ti42Nb titanium alloy produced by laser-based powder bed fusion
Authors: BOUBAKER Houssemeddine BEN , Le-Coz Gael , Moufki abdelhadi , Nouari Mohammed , Laheurte Pascal
Published: November 2022

Ti-Nb alloys are high-profile candidates for the biomedical applications. However, because of poor surface integrity (i.e. residual stress and surface roughness), Ti-Nb implantable medical devices need to be machined in order to obtain functional surfaces finish. In this work, experimentaland numerical investigations are conducted to study the micro-cutting response of Ti42Nb titanium alloy produced by laser-based powder bed fusion. Experimental micro-cutting tests are carried out using precision turning lathe. Trials are performed with two cutting velocities of 60 m/min and 120 m/min and different feed rates, varying from 5 to 40μm/rev. For the numerical study, a porous crystal plasticity-based model is proposed to address the impact of anisotropy and microstructure heterogeneities of the polycrystalline material. The crystal plasticity-basedmodel is identified using strain–stress curves obtained from compression tests performed under two strain rates and a wide range of temperatures. Numerical micro-cutting simulations are performed in order to gain insight into the impact of microstructural features (i.e. crystallographic orientation and grain size) on the machinability of the alloy.According to the results, the effect of the strain rates and the temperature on the thermomechanical behavior of the Ti42Nb titanium alloy produced by laser-based powder bed fusion is correctly depicted. The model captured the strain localization on adiabatic shear band during compression tests. According to the micro-cutting simulations, the local variables such as temperature, damage and plastic deformation are strongly impacted by the crystallographic orientations and the grain size.In addition, depending on the crystallographic orientations, the chip morphology changes form continues, slightly segmented to largely segmented.