bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Lignin Biosynthesis Related Enzyme Activities and related enzyme gene expression in bamboo shoots after harvest
Authors: Xu Chang , Gao Yuan , Yu Xuejun , Tan Xiaoyang
Published: June 2023

Bamboo shoot is a green health food with high protein, low fat, low sugar and high fiber. Because of its high nutritional value and delicious taste, it is well received by the vast majority of consumers. However, the bamboo shoots(Phyllostachys edulis) after harvest are very easy to lignify. In this paper, the occurrence of lignification of bamboo shoots (Phyllostachys edulis) under room temperature after harvest were studied.Through the analysis of the physiological indexes of four synthetic enzymes and the relative expression level of it of the lignin, the relative expression of lignin biosynthesis and the relationship between lignin biosynthesis and lignin synthase activity were studied.Correlation between the relative expression level and the lignin synthesis, as well as the enzyme activity and the lignin were studied.The study of lignin biosynthesis physiology of bamboo shoots after harvest is helpful for us to grasp the growth characteristics of bamboo shoots, facilitate production management and timely picking, control and delay its aging process, which can achieve maximum economic value. The results show that: The lignification of the bamboo shoots is a process of advancing from the bottom pare to the upper part; Under the room temperature, the changes of the activity of PAL, POD and 4CL as well as the related expression of the the three parts of bamboo shoots were significantly correlated with the changes in the content of lignin in bamboo shoots, and the three enzymes may be involved in the biosynthesis of lignin; The three parts of the CAD enzyme activity in the bamboo shoot have reached the highest value at 2h, while the CAD related genes in the upper part of the bamboo shoot are the highest at 10h, the highest in the middle part at 2h, and the highest at the lower part at 18h.
Urinary growth differentiation factor 15 predicts renal function decline in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Oshita Toma , Toyohara Takafumi , Watanabe Shun , Kujirai Ryota , Kikuchi Koichi , Suzuki Takehiro , Suzuki Chitose , Matsumoto Yotaro , Wada Jun , Tomioka Yoshihisa , Tanaka Tetsuhiro , Abe Takaaki
Published: June 2023

Background: Sensitive biomarkers can enhance the diagnosis, prognosis, and surveillance of chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Plasma growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) levels are a novel biomarker for mitochondria-associated diseases; however, it may not be a useful indicator for CKD as its levels increase with declining renal function. This study explores urinary GDF15’s potential as a marker for CKD.
Methods: The plasma and urinary GDF15 as well as 15 uremic toxins were measured in 103 patients with CKD. The relationship between the urinary GDF15-creatinine ratio and the uremic toxins and other clinical characteristics was investigated.
Results: Urinary GDF15-creatinine ratios were less related to renal function and uremic toxin levels compared to plasma GDF15. Additionally, the ratios were significantly higher in patients with CKD patients with diabetes (p = 0.0012) and reduced with statin treatment. In a different retrospective DKD cohort study (U-CARE, n = 342), multiple and logistic regression analyses revealed that the baseline urinary GDF15-creatinine ratios prediceted a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over two years.
Conclusions: Compared to the plasma GDF15 level, the urinary GDF15-creatinine ratio is less dependent on the renal function and sensitively fluctuates with diabetes and statin treatment. It may serve as a better prognostic marker for renal function decline in patients with DKD than the urine albumin-creatinine ratio.
C-polynomials and LC-functions: towards a generalization of the Hurwitz zeta function
Authors: Lamgouni Lahcen
Published: June 2023

Let $f(t)=\sum_{n=0}^{+\infty}\frac{C_{f,n}}{n!}t^n$ be an analytic function at $0$, and let $C_{f, n}(x)=\sum_{k=0}^{n}\binom{n}{k}C_{f,k} x^{n-k}$ be the sequence of Appell polynomials, referred to as \textit{C-polynomials associated to}$f$, constructed from the sequence of coefficients $C_{f,n}$. We also define $P_{f,n}(x)$ as the sequence of C-polynomials associated to the function $p_{f}(t)=f(t)(e^t-1)/t$, called \textit{P-polynomials associated to}$f$. This work investigates three main topics. Firstly, we examine the properties of C-polynomials and P-polynomials and the underlying features that connect them. Secondly, drawing inspiration from the definition of P-polynomials and subject to an additional condition on $f$, we introduce and study the bivariate complex function $P_{f}(s,z)=\sum_{k=0}^{+\infty}\binom{z}{k}P_{f,k}s^{z-k}$, which generalizes the $s^z$ function and is denoted by $s^{(z,f)}$. Thirdly, the paper's significant contribution is the generalization of the Hurwitz zeta function and its fundamental properties, most notably Hurwitz's formula, by constructing a novel class of functions defined by $L(z,f)=\sum_{n=n_{f}}^{+\infty}n^{(-z,f)}$, which are intrinsically linked to C-polynomials and referred to as \textit{LC-functions associated to}$f$ (the constant $n_{f}$ is a positive integer dependent on the choice of $f$). This research offers a detailed analysis of C-polynomials, P-polynomials, and LC-functions associated to a given analytic function $f$, thoroughly examining their interrelations and introducing unexplored research directions for a novel and expansive class of LC-functions possessing a functional equation equivalent to that of the Riemann zeta function, thereby highlighting the potential applications and implications of the findings.
Sub-chronic exposure to diazinon induce cognitive impairment, alternations in amyloid precursor proteins, and TNF-α expression in the hippocampus of adult rats
Authors: Sarailoo Mehdi , Afshari Salva , Asghariazar Vahid , Niri Mehdi Vosoughi , Safarzadeh Elham , Dadkhah Masoomeh
Published: June 2023

Organophosphate pesticides such as diazinon (DZN) are involved in the development of psychological symptoms and memory deficits but their effects on the amyloid precursor proteins (APP) genes expression remains unclear. Following low-level oral exposure to the DZN (2 mg/kg), we used novel object recognition, open field, and elevated plus-mazes (EPM) to assess memory and anxiety-like behaviors in rats. We also evaluated alteration in the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), amyloid precursor protein (APP), and APP-like protein-2 (APLP2) and real-time quantitative PCR to evaluate the expression of the related genes in the hippocampus. The results showed that DZN exposure increased anxiety-like behaviors, regardless of the duration of exposure, but only extended exposure (12 weeks) impaired memory. The study also found that the hippocampal expression of APP and APLP2 decreased after 12 weeks of exposure, but not after 5 days. The TNF-α gene was up-regulated following 5 days of exposure, but 12 weeks of exposure had no effect. Our finding demonstrates that long-lasting exposure to low levels of DZN in adulthood stimulates APP degradation, which may contribute to poor cognitive outcomes. Given that APP plays a significant role in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, alterations in APP expression could contribute to dementia.
Testicular salvageability and its predictors among patients with testicular torsion in a resource limited setting; a multicentre longitudinal study
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Abdullahi , Abraha Demoz , Olasinde Anthoney Ayotunde , Kiswezi Ahmed , Molen Selamo Fabrice , Muhumuza Joshua , Lule Herman
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Testicular torsion refers to ischemia of the testicle due to twisting or rotation of the vessels supplying the testes. It is a urologic emergency requiring a high index of clinical suspicion and prompt surgical intervention with management aimed at avoiding testicular loss and resulting infertility. There is a paucity of data on this subject in low-income settings. This study was aimed at assessing testicular salvageability and its predictors among patients with testicular torsion at two tertiary African hospitals.
Methods
This was a hospital-based multicentre longitudinal study at two tertiary hospitals in western Uganda. Patients with acute scrotum were enrolled and assessed for testicular torsion. Those with torsion underwent surgery and salvageability was recorded as the primary outcome. Predictors were determined using backward binary logistic regression in SPSS version 22.
Results
During the study period, 232 patients with acute scrotum were enrolled. The mean age was 35.3 (SD=20.4) years. Forty-one (17.7%) patients had testicular torsion. Of the 41 diagnosed with torsion, only 16 (39.0%) had viable testis that were salvageable. Orchiectomy was done for 25 (61.0%). At multivariate analysis, a patient who presented after 48 hours from the onset of symptoms was 34.833 times more likely to have orchiectomy compared to one that presented within 12 hours [AOR=34.833, (95% CI=5.020-60.711), P<0.001].
Conclusion
In this study, the testicular salvage rate was low. The only predictor of salvageability was the time from the onset of symptoms to presentation. All males should be sensitized about the clinical features of testicular torsion to ensure early presentation in to increase salvage rates.
Effects of foliar and root silicon application on mitigating water deficit stress in young Eucalyptus urophylla plants
Authors: Barbosa Mateus Pires , Cairo Paulo Araquém Ramos , Bonfim Raul Antonio Araújo do , Silva Leandro Dias da , Sá Milton Carriço , Almeida Marcos Ferreira , de Oliveira Leonardo Santos , Brito Sávio da Paz , Gomes Fábio Pinto
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims
Water restriction significantly affects the growth and survival of young plants following transplantation. Although silicon (Si) is not typically considered essential for plants, it can help mitigate abiotic stresses. We hypothesized that Si application in plants, depending on how it is applied, can improve the tolerance to water restriction. The objective was to investigate how applying Si to the leaves and roots of young Eucalyptus urophylla plants can mitigate water restriction effects.
Methods
A greenhouse experiment was conducted with one factor consisting of three Si application methods (via root substrate, foliar spray, and a combination of both) and a control group with no Si; the other factor involved well-watered and water-deficit irrigation regimes, based on 90% and 30% pot capacity, respectively.
Results
Silicon application improved the plant’s tolerance to water restriction by maintaining stable cell turgor and increasing intrinsic water use efficiency. Silicon also helped to reduce stomatal conductance and water losses through transpiration, which prevented a decline in CO2 assimilation and promoted osmoregulation. It also prevented a decrease in chlorophyll content and attenuated oxidative stress, by increasing superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase activity, which contributed to preventing an increase in lipid peroxidation and electrolyte leakage. The effectiveness of Si supply was higher when applied through the roots or a combination of roots and leaves compared to foliar spray alone.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that Si application can be a useful strategy for improving plant tolerance to water restriction, particularly when applied through the roots.
Transition, obligations and isolation: A qualitative exploration of psychosocial challenges in working-age colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Li Xinxin , Wu Xiaodan , Gong Ni , Xu Ziruo , Zhang Yiheng , Liao Haifen , Zhang Meifen
Published: June 2023

Objective: To understand the experiences of psychosocial challenges encountered by working-age colorectal cancer (CRC) patients during their cancer trajectory.
Methods: This study was carried out using the phenomenological analysis method. From January to February 2022, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 working-age CRC patients in Guangzhou, China. Thematic analysis was performed using the NVivo 12 software based on the seven steps of Colaizzi's method. This study reporting followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist.
Results: The average age of participants was 40.32 years old at the time of interviews. Three overarching themes emerged: (1) Unexpected transition to the sick role; (2) Unfulfilled familial obligations; (3) Experiencing isolation; and eight subthemes were identified.
Conclusion: Working-age CRC patients need and long for returning to normality to fulfill their life roles, however, road ahead is arduous, as they struggle with negative emotions originated from transition to the sick role, unfulfilled familial obligations and perceive isolation from healthy peers and career during their cancer journey. Therefore, multifaceted psychosocial interventions aimed at improving psychological wellbeing are suggested to be delivered to the population. Furthermore, it is suggested to encourage patients to utilize available social support resources, so as to minimize the negative impacts of psychosocial problems on their return to normality.
Incidental parathyroidectomy during total thyroidectomy and functional parathyroid preservation: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Melot Charlotte , Deniziaut Gabrielle , Menegaux Fabrice , Chereau Nathalie
Published: June 2023

Background
The published rate of incidental parathyroidectomy (IP) during thyroid surgery varies between 5.8% and 29%. The risk factors and clinical significance of postoperative transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism are still debated. The aims of this study were to assess the clinical relevance of avoidable IP for transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, and to describe the risk factors for IP.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 1,537 patients who had a one-step total thyroidectomy in a high-volume endocrine surgery center between 2018 and 2019. Pathology reports were reviewed for incidentally removed parathyroid glands. Intrathyroidal parathyroid glands were excluded from the study. Demographic characteristics, potential risk factors, and postoperative calcium and PTH levels were compared between IP and control groups.
Results
Avoidable IP occurred in 234 (15.2%) patients. Patients with IP had a higher risk of transient hypocalcemia (17.9% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.006; odds ratio [OR] 1.68, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]1.16–2.45) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (4.7% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.002; OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.29–6.63) than patients without IP. Multivariate analysis showed that central lymph node dissection (CLND) and incidental removal of thymus tissue were independent risk factors for IP (OR 4.83, 95% CI 2.71–8.86, p < 0.001 and OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.02–2.82, p = 0.038).
Conclusions
Patients with IP were more likely to develop transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, indicating the clinical significance of avoidable IP for patients and the need for raising awareness among surgeons. Patients undergoing CLND are at a higher risk for IP, and should be adequately informed and treated. Any removal of thymus tissue should be avoided during CLND.
SIRT6 Mediated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Senescence Participates in the Pathogenesis of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Yang Le , Wu Xuejun , Bian Shuai , Zhao Dongfang , Fang Sheng , Yuan Hai
Published: June 2023

Objective
Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is a nuclear deacetylase regulating lifespan. Previous articles had reported a causal link between cell senescence and aneurysm. In this study, we carried out clinical sample study, in vivo study and in vitro study to determine the effect of SIRT6 and SIRT6 mediated vascular smooth muscle senescence on the development of AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm)
Methods
Aortic specimens were collected from AAA patients and organ donors. AAA was inducted in ApoE−/− mice by Angiotensin II infusion. In vivo overexpression of SIRT6 was achieved by transgenic method. Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMC) were used in the in vitro study. In vitro knockdown and overexpression of SIRT6 was achieved by lentivirus transfection.
Results
AAA specimen showed an increased P16, P21 level and a decreased SIRT6 level compared with control aorta. Time cause study of Ang II infusion model showed similar P16, P21 and SIRT6 change at the early phase of AAA induction. The in vivo overexpression of SIRT6 significantly prevented AAA formation in Ang II infusion model. The expression of senescent biomarker, P16 and P21 were significantly reduced after SIRT6 overexpression. SIRT6 overexpression also attenuated chronic inflammation and neo-angiogenesis in Ang II infusion model. Ang II could induce premature senescence in HASMC. The overexpression of SIRT6 could attenuated premature senescence, inflammatory response and neo-angiogenesis in HASMC under Ang II stimulation.
Conclusion
SIRT6 overexpression could limit AAA formation via attenuate vascular smooth muscle senescence, chronic inflammation and neovascularity.
The MYCN/miR-20a-5p/NFKBIB/NF-κB signaling axis promotes the proliferation, invasion and migration of neuroblastoma
Authors: Li Wanfu , Maimaijiang Ayiguzaili , Wang Yaqi , Maimaitijiang Gulimiremu , Lu Hongting , Zheng Shutao , Liu Hui
Published: June 2023

Purpose
To investigate the effect of MYCN on the proliferation, invasion and migration of NB and its molecular mechanism.
Methods
We first compared the expression level of MYCN mRNA in NB cells by PCR. Next, the expression level of miR-20a-5p in NB cells was detected by PCR. Then, cell counting kit-8, wound healing and transwell assays were used to determine the ability of proliferation, migration and invasion of NB cells. Both cells were infected with miR-20a-5p lentivirus particles, and then the infection efficiency was detected by PCR. Repeat the above cell function test to determine the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of NB cells after overexpression or low expression of miR-20a-5p. Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict the binding sites of miR-20a-5p and NFKBIB. A double luciferase reporting assay was used to verify the targeting relationship between miR-20a-5p and NFIBIB. WB confirmed that miR-20a-5p could activate the NF- κB pathway.
Results
MYCN and miR-20a-5p can promote the proliferation, invasion and migration of NB cells, and inhibit NFKBIB by upregulating miR-20a-5p, thereby activating the NF- κB pathway.
Conclusion
In this study, we speculate that the MYCN/miR-20a-5p/NFKBIB/NF- κ B signaling axis can promote the proliferation, invasion and migration of NB cells.
The Association of Body Composition and Outcomes Following Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Aleixo Gabriel , Wei Wei , Chen Po Hao , Gandhi Namita , Anwer Faiz , Dean Robert , Hamilton Betty K. , Hill Brian , Jagadeesh Deepa , Khouri Jack , Pohlman Brad , Sobecks Ronald , Winter Allison , Caimi Paolo , Majhail Navneet
Published: June 2023

Recently there has been a growing interest in evaluating body composition as a marker for prognosis in cancer patients. The association of body composition parameters and outcomes has not been deeply investigated in patients with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 264 NHL patients who received autologous HSCT. Pre-HSCT abdominal CT scans at the levels of L3 were assessed for body composition measures. We evaluated sarcopenia, myosteatosis, high Visceral Adipose Tissue and high visceral adipose tissue density. Using multivariable Cox proportional regression, we analyzed the association of clinical and transplant-related characteristics with overall Survival (OS), relapse-free survival (RFS), and non-relapse mortality (NRM). Results In a multivariate regression model, patients with higher VATD had worse OS (HR 1.78; 95% confidence intervals CI 1.08–2.95, P = 0.02) and worse NRM (HR 2.31 95%CI 1.08–4.95 p = 0.02) than with lower VATD. Patients with lower levels of VAT also had worse RFS (HR 1.49 95% CI 1.03–2.15 p = 0.03). Sarcopenia and myosteatosis were not associated with outcomes. Conclusion High pre-transplant VATD was associated with lower OS and higher NRM, and low pre-transplant VAT was associated with worse RFS in patients with NHL undergoing autologous HSCT.
Comparison between musculoskeletal pain and gender-specific, non-gendered job-exposure matrix and self-reported exposures in CONSTANCES
Authors: Wuytack Francesca , Evanoff Bradley A , Dale Ann Marie , Gilbert Fabien , Fadel Marc , Leclerc Annette , Descatha Alexis
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common worldwide and gender differences exist in terms of prevalence and disability. MSDs are a leading cause of sick leave and physical work exposures.To assess the association between physical exposures assessed by the gender-specific CONSTANCES Job Exposure Matrix (JEM) and musculoskeletal pain in six areas: neck pain, shoulder pain, elbow/arm pain, hand/wrist pain, low back pain, knee/leg pain; and to compare the results with those obtained using the non-gendered CONSTANCES JEM and with individual self-report exposures.
Methods
We included 48,736 male and 63,326 female workers from the CONSTANCES cohort (France). The association between 27 physical exposures and musculoskeletal self-reported pain in six body areas was assessed using logistic regression. We conducted the analysis with three types of exposures: (1) individual self-reported exposures; (2) gender-specific CONSTANCES JEM; (3) non-gendered CONSTANCES JEM, and adjusted for age and Body Mass Index (BMI). Analyses were stratified by gender.
Results
The associations to the gender-specific and non-gendered JEM were similar. The odds ratios using individual self-reported exposures were comparable to the JEM-based associations, with the exceptions of the exposures ‘change tasks’, ‘rest eyes’ and ‘reach behind’. In some comparisons, there were differences in the direction and/or significance of effects between genders (regardless of whether the JEM used was gender-specific or not).
Conclusion
The gender-specific and non-gendered JEMs gave similar results, hence, developing physical work exposures JEMs that are gender-specific may not be essential. However, when predicting musculoskeletal pain, it seems relevant to stratify the analysis by gender.
Investigating the uptake and fate of per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) in bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris) – Comparison between target MS and sum parameter analysis via HR-CS-GFMAS
Authors: Gehrenkemper Lennart , Rühl Isabel , Westphalen Tanja , Simon Fabian , Au Marcus von der , Cossmer Antje , Meermann Björn
Published: June 2023

In this study we present a screening method based on molecular absorption spectrometry to study PFAS uptake and fate in plants. To evaluate the suitability of this method we analyzed plant extracts with molecular absorption spectrometry (MAS) as well as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for mass balance studies (w(F)). French bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris) were grown on spiked soil using eight PFAS substances that vary in chain length and functional group composition. Specifically, these include three short-chained (C4-C5), five long-chained (C7-C10) as well as carbonic acids, one sulfonic acid and one sulfonic amid moieties. To investigate substance-specific PFAS uptake systematically, PFAS were spiked as single substance spike. Additionally, we studied one mixture of the investigated substances in equal proportions regarding w(F) and four PFAS mixtures of unknown composition. After 6 weeks plants were separated into four compartments. We analyzed the four compartments as well as soil for extractable organically bound fluorine (EOF) by HR-CS-GFMAS as well as for sum of ten target-PFAS by LC-MS/MS. All three short-chained PFAS perfluoro butanoic acid (PFBA), perfluoro butanoic sulfonic acid (PFBS) and perfluoro pentanoic acid (PFPeA) were determined in high concentrations mainly in the fruits of the investigated plants while long-chained PFAS perfluoro nonanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluoro decanoic acid (PFDA) were mainly determined in roots. PFBS was determined in remarkably high concentrations in leaves compartment by both quantification methods. Overall, comprehensive results of single substance spikes were in good agreement for both methods except for few cases. Hence, two phenomena were identified: For mixed PFAS spikes of unknown composition huge differences between EOF and sum of target PFAS were observed with systematically higher EOF values. Overall, both methods indicate comparable results with MS being more reliable for known PFAS contamination and MAS being more valuable to identify PFAS exposure of unknown composition.
Laguerre inequality and determinantal inequality for the broken k-diamond partition function
Authors: Yang Eve Y.Y.
Published: June 2023

In 2007, Andrews and Paule introduced the broken k-diamond partition function ∆ k (n), which has received a lot of researches on the arithmetic propertises. In this paper, we will prove the broken k-diamond partition function satisfies the Laguerre inequalities of order 2 and the deter-minantal inequalities of order 3 for k = 1 or 2. Moreover, we conjectured the thresholds for the Laguerre inequalities of order m and the positivity of m-order determinants for 4 ≤ m ≤ 14 for the broken k-diamond partition function when k = 1 or 2.
AMS Classification: 05A20, 11P82
Omics analysis revealed the antitumor effect of mitochondrial targeted drug combination
Authors: Li Chaoqun , Zhang Yanfei , Xia Qing , Hao Bingjie , Hong Yifan , Yue Liduo , Zheng Tiansheng , Li Ming , Fan Lihong
Published: June 2023

Purpose
The incidence and mortality of lung cancer have continued to rise in recent years. Mitochondrial energy metabolism malfunction is crucial for cancer cell death, proliferation and bioenergetic reprogramming. Improving the mitochondrial activity is a potent method to arrest tumor development and growth. In this study, we attempted to use mitochondrial targeting drugs to improve mitochondrial function and reverse the Warburg effect in the treatment of lung cancer
Methods
In this study, we created a mouse subcutaneous tumor model, treated it with multiple mitochondrial-targeted drug combinations, and analyzed the tumor tissues by transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic methods.
Results
Use of target drugs to improve the level of mitochondrial energy metabolism can effectively prevented cancer occurrence and progression, especially the 7-drug combination regimen, which producing healthy mitochondria from the three aspects of mitochondrial membrane, electron chain and interaction substrate. The NK cells in tumor tissue were increased effectively and the tumor markers in plasma were decreased. And we mapped the protein interaction network using omics data found the 7-drug combination therapy lung cancer by up-regulating mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation-related genes, down-regulating proliferation- and validation-related genes and reversing tumor metabolic remodeling.
Conclusions
Mitochondrial targeted drug cocktail therapy can effectively inhibit the occurrence and development of tumors, which is due to the reprogramming of energy metabolism in tumor tissues and the increase of immune cells. Our study offers a novel approach for the clinical prevention and treatment of lung cancer, and provides evidence-based clues for the combined use of targeted mitochondrial drugs.
Quantum Convolutional Neural Networks for Multi-Channel Supervised Learning
Authors: Smaldone Anthony M. , Kyro Gregory W. , Batista Victor S.
Published: June 2023

As the rapidly evolving field of machine learning continues to produce incredibly useful tools and models, the potential for quantum computing to provide speed up for machine learning algorithms is becoming increasingly desirable. In particular, quantum circuits in place of classical convolutional filters for image detection-based tasks are being investigated for the ability to exploit quantum advantage. However, these attempts, referred to as quantum convolutional neural networks (QCNNs), lack the ability to efficiently process data with multiple channels and therefore are limited to relatively simple inputs. In this work, we present a variety of hardware-adaptable quantum circuit ansatzes for use as convolutional kernels, and demonstrate that the quantum neural networks we report outperform existing QCNNs on classification tasks involving multi-channel data. We envision that the ability of these implementations to effectively learn inter-channel information will allow quantum machine learning methods to operate with more complex data.
Influence of bioceramic cones on the quality of root canal filling relative to bond strength and adaptation of the adhesive interface
Authors: Quaresma Sérgio André Lopes , Santos Guilherme Nilson Alves dos , Silva-Sousa Alice Corrêa , Camargo Rafael Verardino , Lopes-Olhê Fabiane Carneiro , Silva-Sousa Yara Teresinha , Mazzi-Chaves Jardel Francisco , Sousa-Neto Manoel Damião
Published: June 2023

Aim
To evaluate the bond strength (BS) and analysis of the adhesive interface in root canals filled with bioceramic gutta percha sealers and cones.
Material and Methods
Ninety-six maxillary canines were divided into eight groups according to the endodontic sealer (AH Plus, AH Plus Bioceramic, Bio-C Sealer or Bio-C Sealer Ion + and gutta percha cones (conventional or bioceramic) tested. They were analyzed using the BS test, failure pattern, analysis of the adhesive interface by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The BS data were compared between groups using the analysis of variance test with the Turkey post-test. The chi-square test was used to assess the type of failure and the non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Kruse-Wallis tests (p < 0.05).
Results
Analysis of variance showed higher BS values for the groups of bioceramic gutta percha cones in Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (8.38 ± 4.27), AH Plus Bioceramic (6.19 ± 3.28), Bio-C Sealer (5.70 ± 3.18), AH Plus (4.61 ± 2.11) and for conventional gutta percha cones in AH Plus sealers (4.26 ± 2.35), Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (3.63 ± 2.29), Bio-C Sealer (2.94 ± 2.32) and AH Plus Bioceramic (1.19 ± 0.89) (p < 0.05). Relative to the type of failure and adaptation of the types of filling material, a higher percentage of mixed failures was observed (gaps between 1 µm-10 µm) for the group with bioceramic gutta percha cones (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The bond between sealers and bioceramic gutta percha cones showed higher bond strength values and greater penetration into the dentin tubules.
Clinical Relevance:
The filling the root canal system with bioceramic sealers should be associated with bioceramic gutta percha cones.
Based on bioinformatics analysis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease associated with metabolic biomarkers
Authors: Jiang Hua , Hu Yang , Zhang Zhibo , Chen Xujia , Gao Jianpeng
Published: June 2023

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic syndrome of the liver. Metabolism-related genes significantly influence the onset and progression of the disease. Hence, it is necessary to screen metabolism-related biomarkers for diagnosing and treating patients with NAFLD.
Methods: First, the transcriptomic data of patients with NAFLD were screened to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Next, Venn Diagram was used to identify metabolism-related DEGs (MR-DEGs). Further, a protein-protein interaction network was developed to show the interaction between MR-DEGs. Subsequently, the “Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression” and “Random Forest” algorithms were used to screen metabolism-related genes in patients with NAFLD. Next, immune cell infiltration and gene set enrichment analyses were performed on these metabolism-related genes. Finally, metabolism-related gene expression was determined at the transcription level.
Results: First, 129 DEGs related to NAFLD development were identified among patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and healthy control. Next, 18 MR-DEGs were identified using the Venn diagram. Subsequently, four genes, including AMDHD1, FMO1, LPL, and P4HA1,were identified using machine learning. Moreover, a regulatory network consisting of four genes, 25 miRNAs, and 41 transcription factors was constructed. Finally, a significant increase in FMO1 and LPLexpression levels and a decrease in AMDHD1 and P4HA1 expression levels were observed in patients in the NASH group compared to the healthy control group.
Conclusion: Metabolism-related genes associated with NAFLD, such as AMDHD1, FMO1, LPL, and P4HA1, were identified which provide insights into diagnosing and treating patients with NAFLD.
The Subjective Causal Impact of COVID-19 on Graduate Medical Education and Recommendations for Bridging the Educational Gap: A Global Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Goulas Sofoklis , Karamitros Georgios
Published: June 2023

Background: COVID-19 generated a system-wide shock causing an unbalanced equilibrium be- tween producing adequately trained physicians and meeting extraordinary operational needs. Pre- vious studies report the experience of surgical residents during COVID-19 on a regional level. This study measures the learning losses causally associated with the re-deployment of highly special- ized medical professionals to the care of COVID-19 patients, while we systematically investigate proposed remedial strategies.
Methods: We administered an online cross-sectional survey in 67 countries capturing training inputs (i.e., surgeries and seminars residents participated in) before and during the pandemic and retrieved residents’ expected learning outputs, career prospects and recommended remedial mea- sures for learning losses. We compared responses of residents working in (treatment group) and out (control group) of hospitals with COVID-19 patients.
Results: The analysis included 432 plastic surgery residents who were in training during the pandemic. Most of the learning losses were found in COVID-19 hospitals with 37% and 16% loss of surgeries and seminars, respectively, per week. Moreover, 74%, 44%, and 55% of residents ex- pected their surgical skill, scientific knowledge, and overall competence, respectively, to be lower than those of residents who graduated prior to COVID. Residents in COVID-19 hospitals reported participating in significantly (p < 0.001) fewer surgeries and having significantly (p < 0.001) lower surgical skill relative to those not in COVID-19 hospitals.
Conclusions: The perceived lower competence and the fall-off in surgical skill and scientific knowl- edge among future surgeons suggest that healthcare systems globally may have limited capacity to perform delicate and costly procedures in the future.
Impact of Online Teaching on State and Sleep Assessments after COVID-19
Authors: Khemthong Supalak , Chatthong Winai , Rueankam Maliwan
Published: June 2023

Online teaching might not assist Occupational Therapy Students (OTS) after Covid-19. This study identified strong predictors of sleep quality, sleep hygiene, and emotional states in two academic years of Thai OTS. A total of 42 samples were stratified and a longitudinal following-up was conducted. State and sleep variables were assessed using Thai version of the Pittsburgh Sleep quality Index (T-PSQI), Sleep Hygiene Index (SHI), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21). Poor sleep hygiene and quality were not significantly changed for nine months, but anxiety, depression, and stress scores significantly increased. An overloaded online schedule of nine months can be a factor in poor scores on state and sleep assessments. Emotional states seemed to gain more than one predictor in longer period of online teaching included a high expectation while the OTS were facing with a transitional environment between academic classroom and clinical practice after the COVID-19 crisis. Therefore, online teaching may be combined with emotional support and case conference toward interprofessional collaboration. Overloaded online schedule can be a factor in poor state and sleep management in the OTS. Both academic and fieldwork educators should provide positive learning environments which enhance interpersonal communication with social relaxation.
HowNotToDoPatientEngagement: The Engaging with Purpose Patient Engagement Framework based on a Twitter Analysis of Community Perspectives on Patient Engagement
Authors: Dunstan Brianna , Buchanan Francine , Maybee Alies , Lofters Aisha , Sayani Ambreen
Published: June 2023

Background: Evaluation of patient engagement practices are frequently researcher-driven, researcher-funded and asymmetric in power dynamics. Little to almost no literature exists that documents patient experiences in patient engagement that are organic and non-institutional. Understanding these perspectives can help us understand what matters to patients when they are engaged in research, why it matters to them, and can offer insights on how to improve the patient engagement process so that the needs and priorities of patients are met.
Methods: Twitter is a microblogging platform that contains a vast amount of freely available, user generated, textual data containing personal reflections and opinions. We conducted a conventional and summative content analysis of textual data retrieved from a highly active conversation on Twitter around the hashtags #HowNotToDoPatientEngagement and #HowToDoPatientEngagement between February 2018 to June 2021.
Results: A total of 276 tweets were retrieved from 178 separate contributors across seven geographical locations. Four stakeholder groups were identified. We generated 24 codes, seven subthemes and five overarching themes: respect, support, collaboration, inclusivity and impact. Four of these themes are closely aligned with the Strategy for Patient Oriented (SPOR) Patient Engagement framework. We identify impact as a separate and new theme.
Interpretation: Based on our findings we offer the Engaging with Purpose Patient Engagement Framework that defines and describes respect, support, collaboration, inclusivity and impact as five key pillars of meaningful patient engagement.
Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors (PitNETs): Increased M2 Macrophage Infiltration and PD-L1 Expression in PIT1-lineage Subset
Authors: Luo Mei , Tang Rui , Wang Haijun
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Tumor immune microenvironment in PitNETs and application of current immunotherapy for refractory PitNETs remains debated. We aim to evaluate the immune landscape in different lineages of PitNETs and determine the potential role of pituitary transcription factors in reshaping the TIME, thus promoting the application of current immunotherapy for aggressive and metastatic PitNETs.
Methods
Immunocyte infiltration and expression patterns of immune checkpoint molecules in different lineages of PitNETs were estimated via in silico analysis and validated using an IHC validation cohort. The correlation between varying immune components with clinicopathological features was assessed in PIT1-lineage PitNETs.
Results
Transcriptome profiles from 210 PitNETs/ 8 normal pituitaries (NPs) and immunohistochemical validations of 77 PitNETs/ 6 NPs revealed a significant increase in M2-macrophage infiltration in PIT1-lineage PitNETs, compared with the TPIT-lineage, SF1-lineage subsets and NPs. While CD68 + macrophage, CD4 + T cells, and CD8 + T cells were not different among them. Increased M2-macrophage infiltration was associated with tumor volume (p < 0.0001, r = 0.57) in PIT1-lineage PitNETs. Meanwhile, differentially expressed immune checkpoint molecules (PD-L1, PD1, and CTLA4) were screened and validated in IHC cohorts. The results showed that PD-L1 was highly expressed in PIT1-lineage subsets, and PD-L1 overexpression showed a positive correlation with tumor volume (p = 0.04, r = 0.29) and cavernous sinus invasion (p < 0.0001) in PIT1-lineage PitNETs.
Conclusion
PIT1-lineage PitNETs exhibit a distinct immune profile with enrichment of M2 macrophage infiltration and PD-L1 expression, which contribute to its clinical aggressiveness. Application of current immune checkpoint inhibitors and M2-targeted immunotherapy might be more beneficial to treat aggressive and metastatic PIT-lineage PitNETs.
RETRACTED: Placement optimization of virtual network functions in a cloud computing environment
Authors: Said Imad Eddine , Sayad Lamri , Aissani Djamil
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Developing a nanopore sequencing workflow for protein engineering applications
Authors: Tan Daniel Zhi Jun , Fung Vincent , Sun Tao , Tian Kaiyuan , Li Zhi , Zhou Kang
Published: June 2023

Sequencing plays a critical role in protein engineering, where the genetic information encoding for a desired mutation can be identified. We evaluated the performance of two commercially available NGS technologies (Illumina NGS and nanopore sequencing) on the available mutant libraries that were either previously constructed for other protein engineering projects or were constructed in-house for this study. The sequencing results from Illumina sequencing indicated that a substantial proportion of the reads exhibited strand exchange, which mixed information of different mutants. When nanopore sequencing was used, the occurrence of strand exchange was substantially reduced compared with Illumina sequencing. We then developed a new library preparation workflow for nanopore sequencing and was successful in further reducing the incidence of strand exchange. The optimized workflow was successfully used to aid selection of improved alcohol dehydrogenase mutants in cells where their activities were coupled with cell growth rate. The workflow quantified the enrichment fold change of most mutants in the library (size = 1,728) in the growth-based selection passaging. A mutant that was > 500% more active than its parent variant was identified based on the fold change data, but not with the absolute abundance data (random sampling of the passaged cells), highlighting the usefulness of this rapid and affordable sequencing workflow in protein engineering.
A proposed method to estimate surgical blood loss in adults – a consistent and objective formula
Authors: Roth Jonathan Victor
Published: June 2023

The estimation of surgical blood loss, particularly after large blood loss cases, by anesthesia personnel can be subjective and can vary between individuals. Intraoperative transfer of anesthesia care also affects blood loss estimates. This manuscript proposes a simple objective methodology to estimate surgical blood loss that does not depend upon any individual and can easily be calculated from knowledge of the patient’s sex, height and weight, the starting hemoglobin (or hematocrit), the ending hemoglobin (or hematocrit), the number of packed red blood cells and whole blood units transfused, and the volume of cell saver blood reinfused.
Intention to use sharia e-commerce: Applying a combination of the technology acceptance model and theory of planned behavior
Authors: El Ashfahany Afief , Azzahra Fatimah , Yayuli  , Musa Unal Ibrahim
Published: June 2023

This study aims to build a framework for the variables affecting interest in sharia e-commerce, such as attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavior control, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and religiosity. Using a convenience sampling method, this analysis involved 212 young people, who represent the most significant proportion of e-commerce clients. The survey measurements and hypotheses testing used the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The results of the study show that attitude (ß = 0.261, p = 0.000), subjective norm (ß = 0.264, p = 0.000), perceived usefulness (ß = 0.241, p = 0.013), and perceived ease of use (ß = 0.185, p = 0.032) have a positive relationship with intention to use sharia e-commerce for youths. In addition, perceived ease of use (ß = 0.759, p = 0.000) also significantly affects perceived usefulness as a moderator to intention. In comparison, perceived behavior control (ß = –0.042, p = 0.505) was an insignificant factor in using sharia e-commerce. This study also shows that religiosity (ß = 0.648, p = 0.000) is essential in a person’s attitude toward intending to use sharia e-commerce. The insignificant relationship between perceived behavior control and intention to use sharia e-commerce is believed to be because both conventional and sharia e-commerce are easily operated. Thus, youth people have not noticed many differences in using sharia e-commerce.
Employability in the context of career change: Utilizing social cognitive career theory
Authors: Rino  , Sabrina Deva , Ismail Azman , Kurniawati Tri , Darni Mely
Published: June 2023

As organizations transform, they adapt to unstable, unpredictable, complex, and ambiguous conditions. This study intends to explore the influence of self-efficacy and work values in determining employability using the choice model of the social cognitive career theory. The purpose of this paper is to investigate affective commitment as an outcome variable in relation to self-efficacy and intrinsic and extrinsic value support mediated by perceived internal and external employability. This paper uses data from 286 employees; the hypotheses were evaluated using partial least squares structural equations modeling. The results of this study support the employability paradox that states that perceived internal employability mediates a positive effect between self-efficacy and affective commitment, while perceived external employability has a negative effect on affective commitment. This study provides further evidence in the literature on employability that self-efficacy and perceived external employability have a significant role in the context of a career change. Intrinsic values support has a detrimental influence on perceived external employability. Extrinsic work values positively affect perceived internal and external employability, while intrinsic work values negatively affect perceived external employability.
AcknowledgmentThis study was funded by MBKM Project, Education and Higher Education Ministry, Indonesia. The Human Resources Management and Behavioural Research Group Faculty of Economy, Universitas Negeri Padang, also supported it.