bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Quantum Synchronization in Future Generation Networks
Authors: Nande Swaraj Shekhar , Habibie Muhammad Idham , Ghadimi Milad , Garbugli Andrea , Kondepu Koteswararao , Bassoli Riccardo , Fitzek Frank H. P.
Published: March 2024

5G and beyond networks are expected to host several heterogeneous verticals with very different requirements in terms of latency, data rate, etc. In the case of human-machine collaboration and cohabitation, very low latency is necessary to permit the seamless remote control of robots and the transmission of sensory experience involving not only audiovisual but also tactile information. In this context, ultra-precise and reliable time synchronization is pivotal. However, existing standards like the Precision Time Protocol (PTP) are proven to be unreliable because of jitters, datagram losses, and complexity. This notifies that the increase of synchronization error from the ideal tens of nanoseconds to hundreds of microseconds is unacceptable in future generation networks. This study provides a novel way for establishing ultra-precise synchronization, which is critical for the growth of converged optical communication networks and the 6G era. We present a unique synchronization mechanism that takes advantage of the unprecedented accuracy of optical lattice clocks and frequency combs in conjunction with electronic components such as Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) and Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). Our method transforms optical pulses into precisely timed electrical signals that may be analyzed and used in sophisticated network systems. This technology assures that data transfer across networks is precisely synchronised and crucial for developing future networks where data must be synchronized over immense distances with minimal latency. Our work demonstrates feasibility and practical applicability using thorough simulations (MATLAB), moving beyond theoretical principles to implementable solutions using existing technical capabilities. The purpose of this paper is to bring femtosecond signal synchronization to nanosecond-level devices. In the simulation, we use an optical signal with a frequency of 1000 THz and downconverted to a lower microwave frequency (100 GHz) — to achieve picosecond-level synchronised signals. The downconverted signal is exposed to white noise and then digitalised. This digital signal is then simulated by reducing the sampling rate to fs = 10 THz and limiting the resolution to b = 8 bits. Finally, high-frequency noises are removed by implementing low-pass filtration using FPGAs.
Genotype-phenotype analyses of Iranian patients with and without hemophilia B Leyden: A single-center study
Authors: Moghadam Arash Ahmadfard , Manafzadeh Amir Reza , Dajliry Khadijeh , Ramezan Farahnaz , Nikoonia Mohammad Reza , Abdolkarimi Babak , Hamidpour Mohsen , Tabibian Shadi
Published: March 2024

Background There is a high prevalence of inherited bleeding disorders in Iran, such as hemophilia A (HA) and hemophilia B (HB). This study aimed to analyze the molecular and clinical profiles of patients with HB.Methods A single-center study was conducted among patients with severe HB between March 20, 2000, and June 31, 2023. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification was used for all of the major regions, such as the promoter, the exons, the adjacent intronic regions, and the untranslated regions of the F9 gene. Finally, Sanger sequencing was performed on the PCR products.Results A total of 111 HB patients (17 with HB Leyden and 94 without HB Leyden) were enrolled in this study. The median age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 12 months (IQR: 6 months to 60 months). A family history of hemophilia was reported in 64 (57.7%) of patients. The most common bleeding manifestations were hemarthrosis, bruising, and oral cavity bleeding. Among 94 patients without HB Leyden, 59 (62.8%) had missense, 21 (22.3%) had nonsense, and 8 (8.5%) had frameshift mutations. Moreover, the most frequent mutation in HB Leyden was c.-17 A > G in this study. Finally, two novel mutations (c. -14 T > C and c. -56 T > A) were identified in the promotor region.Conclusion The results of this study confirm that HB is caused by a wide range of molecular defects in Iran. Thus, by knowing the genotypes and phenotypes, we would be able to stratify the patients which is important in terms of their management and outcome.
Fine mapping of LrN3B, one of two complementary genes for adult plant leaf rust resistance on wheat chromosome arm 3BS
Authors: Wang Weidong , Li Huifang , Qiu Lina , Wang Huifang , Pan Wei , Yang Zuhuan , Wei Wenxin , Liu Nannan , Sun Junna , Hu Zhaorong , Ma Jun , Ni Zhongfu , Li Yinghui , Sun Qixin , Xie Chaojie
Published: March 2024

A common wheat line 4N0461 showed adult plant resistance to leaf rust. To map the causal resistance genes, two F2 populations were developed by crossing 4N0461 with susceptible Nongda4503 and Shi4185, respectively, and both segregations fit 9 (resistance):7(susceptibility) ratio, suggesting two complementary dominant resistance genes might be present in 4N0461 for the resistance to leaf rust at adult plant stage. The two genes were located on chromosome arms 3BS and 4BL and temporarily named as LrN3B and LrN4B, respectively. Subpopulations with LrN3B as the single segregating gene from 4N0461×Nongda4503 F2 were developed to finely map LrN3B. LrN3B was delineated in a genetic interval of 0.06 cM, corresponding to 106 kb based on the Chinese Spring reference genome (IWGSC RefSeq v1.1). Four genes were annotated in this region, among which TraesCS3B02G014800 and TraesCS3B02G014900 differ between resistant and susceptible genotypes and were considered as LrN3B candidates, and both were proved to be required for LrN3B resistance by virus-induced gene silencing approach. Different diagnostic markers were developed for checking the polymorphisms of these two candidate genes, which could be used for marker-assisted selection in wheat breeding programs.
Serum D-serine to total serine ratio and glycine levels as predictive biomarkers for cognitive dysfunction in frail elderly subjects
Authors: Imarisio Alberto , Yahyavi Isar , Gasparri Clara , Hassan Amber , Avenali Micol , Maio Anna Di , Buongarzone Gabriele , Galandra Caterina , Picascia Marta , Filosa Asia , Monti Maria , Pacchetti Claudio , Errico Francesco , Rondanelli Mariangela , Usiello Alessandro , Valente Enza Maria
Published: March 2024

Frailty is a common age-related clinical syndrome characterized by a decline in the function of multiple organ systems, increased vulnerability to stressors and huge socio-economic burden. Despite recent research efforts, the physiopathological mechanisms concurring to determine frailty remain elusive and biomarkers able to predate its occurrence in the early stages are still lacking. Beyond its physical component, cognitive decline represents a critical domain of frailty associated with higher risk of adverse health outcomes.
We measured by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) a pool of serum amino acids including L-glutamate, L-aspartate, glycine and D-serine, as well as their precursors L-glutamine, L-asparagine and L-serine in a cohort of elderly subjects encompassing the entire continuum from fitness to frailty. These amino acids are known to orchestrate excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, and in turn, to play a key role as intermediates of energy homeostasis and in liver, kidney, muscle and immune system metabolism. To comprehensively assess frailty, we employed both the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS), as a practical tool to capture the multidimensionality of frailty, and the frailty phenotype, as a measure of physical function. We found that D-serine and D-/Total serine ratio were independent predictors of EFS but not of physical frailty. Furthermore, higher glycine levels and D-/Total serine correlated with worse cognition and depressive symptoms in the frail group. These findings suggest that altered homeostasis of D-serine may represent a biochemical signature of frailty, while increased serum glycine and D-/Total serine ratio could be specifically associated with cognitive decline and depression in frail older populations.

*Alberto Imarisio and Isar Yahyavi share first authorship
**Alessandro Usiello and Enza Maria Valente share senior authorship
How does digital trade promote carbon emissions reduction? A dual perspective on supply and demand
Authors: Zhu Huayou , Bao Weiping , Qin Manman
Published: March 2024

Digital trade assumes a vital role in tackling critical challenges such as the mitigation of carbon emissions and the pursuit of sustainable development. This study draws upon panel data encompassing 30 provinces and municipalities in China spanning the years 2013 to 2021. By establishing an index system to gauge regional digital trade development levels, the article examines the impact mechanism and spillover effects of digital trade on carbon reduction from both the supply and demand perspectives. The research results show that: (1) Digital trade can effectively promote regional carbon reduction, with a more pronounced effect in China's central and western regions and lower carbon emissions regions. (2) Digital trade further suppresses regional carbon emissions through green technological innovation and upgrades in residential consumption structure. (3) Digital trade has spillover effect on carbon emissions, and this “neighborhood effect” is greater than the “local effect”. Digital trade provides strong support for carbon reduction and sustainable development and also provides a strategic direction for government policy formulation.
The Effect of Early Enteral Feeding on Neonatal Outcome After Gastrointestinal Tract Surgery In Assiut University Children Hospital
Authors: Tayeb Azza A. El , Abaskharon Sandy N. , Abdel-Aziz Safwat M.
Published: March 2024

This prospective clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of early vs late enteral feeding after GIT surgery on neonatal outcome after surgery, weight gain, LOHS, time to reach FEF, time to pass first stool, SSI, sepsis and electrolyte disturbances. The study was conducted at Assiut University Children Hospital in one year included 84 neonates who were undergoing GIT surgery. The study included 2 groups: Group A: started EF within 2 days postoperative. Group B: started EF after 2 days postoperative according to clinician discretion based on clinical progress. Result; tolerance was significantly higher among neonates in Group A (P = 0.030). The LOHS at the post-operative time was significantly shorter among neonates in Group A compared to Group B (P < 0.001). The development of sepsis was significantly higher among neonates in Group B compared to Group A (P < 0.001). During the follow up period of the studied participants, 18 cases died with total mortality rate of (18/84, 21.4%). Among them; 2/18 (11.1%) from neonates in Group A versus 16/18 (88.9%) from neonates in Group B, with highly significant difference between both studied groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion; EEF in neonates within 2 days following gastrointestinal tract surgeries is beneficial in reducing the LOHS, mortality, and sepsis. Also improve weight gain at time of discharge and decrease risk of post-operative complications as anastomotic site leak.
Adaptive Stochastic Fault Tolerance for Self-Healing P2P Networks
Authors: Kumar Sudhakar , Goyal Shivam , Singh Sunil K. , Sharma Sunil Kumar , Attar Razaz Waheeb , Arya Varsha , Gupta Brij B.
Published: March 2024

In the complex domain of reliable and flexible distributed systems, the challenging issue of Byzantine fault resilience is pervasive, particularly within the intricate framework of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networks. The 'Adaptive Stochastic Fault Tolerance for Self-Healing P2P Networks' proposes a novel approach to self-healing in distributed peer-to-peer (P2P) systems. It combines ideas from stochastic Byzantine fault tolerance models with adaptive resilience strategies to detect and recover from failures within these complex networks by using probabilistic modeling. This allows P2P systems to adjust their resilience measures in real-time, effectively shielding themselves from unforeseen faults. Furthermore, the research provides extensive experimentation and empirical validation to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
IMPROVE Time to Anti-Coagulation Reversal for Hemorrhagic Strokes
Authors: Dymm Braydon , Graffagnino Carmelo , Acosta Gabriel Torrealba , Ehrlich Matthew , Monk Lisa , Shah Shreyansh , Iversen Edwin , Kolls Brad
Published: March 2024

Background
Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is a risk factor for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) which is an important source of disability and mortality. OAC-associated ICH (OAC-ICH) patients have worse outcomes as compared to ICH patients not on OAC, likely because of the associated larger stroke volumes, higher propensity to intraventricular hemorrhage, and a higher risk of rebleeding. Although current guidelines recommend that OAC should be reversed quickly, many health care systems have not developed a process for optimizing that aspect of care.
Methods
Through the IMPROVE Stroke Care Consortium, a group of nine Hub hospitals and their 57 regional community hospitals, a systems of care improvement project was implemented. Performance reviews identified best practices which were disseminated throughout all centers. We compared the median door-to-reversal (DTR) time before and after an institutional campaign to speed the process with a target time of 60 minutes.
Results
Over two years of the study, there were 6,699 ischemic strokes, 152 subarachnoid hemorrhages, and 889 intracerebral hemorrhages. During that time, 36 hemorrhagic stroke patients received reversal agents emergently. The overall baseline median DTR time was 123 minutes (IQR 99, 361 minutes). By the end of the program, the median DTR time had trended down to 84 minutes (IQR 58.5, 151 minutes) which is a 31.7% reduction of DTR from baseline, though times remained somewhat variable (p = 0.08).
Conclusions
Utilizing an integrated stroke systems of care approach, we were able to reduce DTR times for patients presenting with acute ICH and concurrent use of anticoagulants despite lack of definitive guidelines around targets for reversal times or operational guidance on protocols and agents.
Constitutive expression of MsPROPEP1 enhances salinity and drought tolerance in alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Tang Haoyan , Guo Xinying , Shang Jingwen , Li Wenqi , Fu Jiaqi , Song Yuguang , Dong Wei
Published: March 2024

Plant peptide hormones have various important roles in plant development, defense against pathogens, and tolerance to abiotic stress. However, only a limited number of hormone-like peptides have been proven to contribute to salt and drought stress tolerance in plants other than Arabidopsis. In this study, we present the isolation and characterization of MsPROPEP1, a propeptide precursor gene obtained from the legume pasture Medicago sativa. The transcription of the MsPROPEP1 was found to be inducible by NaCl, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and abscisic acid (ABA). The constitutive expression of MsPROPEP1 in alfalfa seedlings mitigated the restriction on plant growth imposed by either salinity or osmotic stress and raised their sensitivity to ABA in promoting stomatal closure. In addition, we synthesized MsPep1 peptide and found that the application of MsPep1 enhanced tolerance to stress induced by NaCl and PEG. In transgenic plants, many ABA-dependent stress-responsive genes are activated; this is known to promote the expression of peroxidase which plays a role in reactive oxygen scavenging. Our findings suggest that MsPROPEP1 is a candidate for the genetic manipulation of salinity and drought tolerance in legume species.
The association of Cognitive Coping Style with Patient Preferences in a Patient- Led Follow-Up Study among Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: Voigt Kelly R. , Wullaert Lissa , Driel M. H. Elise van , Goudberg Max , Doornebosch Pascal G. , Schreinemakers Jennifer M.J. , Verseveld Maria , Peeters Koen C.M.J. , Verhoef Cornelis , Husson Olga , Grünhagen Dirk J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction
: Amidst the rising number of cancer survivors and personnel shortages, optimisation of follow-up strategies is imperative, especially since intensive follow-up does not lead to survival benefits. Understanding patient preferences and identifying the associated patient profiles is crucial. Coping style may be a key determinant in achieving this. Our study aims to evaluate preferences, identify coping styles and their associated factors, and explore the association between coping style and patients' preferences in colorectal cancer (CRC) follow-up.
Methods
In a prospective multicentre implementation study, patients completed the Threatening Medical Situations Inventory (TMSI) to determine their coping style. Simultaneously patients choose their follow-up preferences for the CRC trajectory regarding frequency of tumour marker determination, location of blood sampling, and manner of contact.
Results
A total of 188 patients completed the TMSI questionnaire after inclusion. A more intensive follow-up was preferred by 71.5% of patients. Of all patients, 52.0% had a coping style classified as ‘blunting’ and 34.0% as ‘monitoring’. Variables such as a younger age, female gender, higher educational level, and lower ASA scores were associated with having higher monitoring scores. However, there were no significant associations between follow-up preferences and patients’ coping styles.
Conclusion
This study suggests that none of the provided options in a patient-led follow-up are unsuitable for patients who underwent curative surgery for primary CRC, based on coping style determined at baseline. Low intensity surveillance after curative resection of CRC may, therefore, be suitable for a wide range of patients independent of coping styles.
Collaborative network, technological progress and potato production in China
Authors: Wang Huaiyu , Wang Qiaoyu , Xiao Yao , Chen Hongshu , Su Zhiwen , Xiang Chao
Published: March 2024

Development of science and technology is one of the vital driven forces for the Chinese agricultural development. Based on 2,513 valid potato invention patents from 1986–2019 in China, a social network analysis is applied to investigate the effects of network changes of potato patents on the innovation activities and potato production. The results show that China has formed a status quo of separation between potato producing areas and patent invention places. Collaborative relationships of potato patents mainly distribute in the non-main production areas. Most of the collaborations are intra-provincial rather than inter-provincial. The correlation relationship between potato innovation and potato yield is positive. But the density and cluster coefficient of collaborative networks in potato research affect the potato innovations differently. Considering the variation of collaborative network and different technology progress in potato production across regions, a cross-regional exchange platform is needed to promote the dissemination and promotion of potato patents in the main potato producing areas.
MRI and Single-cell RNA Sequence Results Reveal the Influence of Anterior Talofibular Ligament Injury on Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Xu Jie , Yang Siyi , Fan Ruiqi , Wu Hongbo , Mo Hui
Published: March 2024

Anterior talofibular ligament injuries and osteochondral lesions of the talus present unique challenges to orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to investigate the relevant relationship between them by analyzing the Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results of clinical patients and single-cell RNA sequence (scRNA seq) results of healthy talus cartilage to discuss the risk factors. Data from 164 patients from 2018 to 2023 was retrospectively analyzed. The correlation analysis between ATFL injury grade and the Hepple stage of OLT determined by MRI was performed. Publicly available single-cell RNA datasets were collected. Single-cell RNA datasets from five volunteers of healthy talus cartilage were analyzed. ATFL injury grade was relevant with the Hepple stage of OLT (P<0.05). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that injured area was the independent influencing factor of the incidence rate and the severity of OLT (P<0.05). The Hepple stage of OLT was relevant with AOFAS and VAS (P<0.05). Single-cell RNA sequence results showed that among the 9 subtypes of chondrocytes, the interaction strength between HTC-A and HTC-B is the highest. Their physical interactions are mainly achieved through the CD99 signaling pathway, and factor interactions are mainly achieved through the ANGPTL signaling pathway. Anterior talofibular ligament injury may lead to osteochondral lesions of the talus. Early medical intervention should be carried out for ligament injuries to restore joint stability and avoid cartilage damage.
Antibacterial activity and inhibitory concentration of hydrolysis protein of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) waste on Exotoxin A Gene Expression of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: yaghoubzadeh zahra , Safari Reza
Published: March 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a harmful pathogen known for causing various infections. A recent study aimed to explore the antibacterial properties of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) waste protein hydrolysate against P. aeruginosa. Antibacterial peptides from fish hydrolyzed protein (FPH) were tested using disk diffusion and well diffusion methods, with a focus on the inhibitory concentration (IC50) of FPH less than 3 kDa on P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853's exotoxin A gene expression. After exposing P. aeruginosa to FPH less than 3 kDa in BHI broth medium and analyzing gene expression of exotoxin A using Real-Time PCR, it was found that the inhibitory concentration had a significant impact. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of FPH less than 3 kDa against P. aeruginosa was determined to be 0.12 μg/mL. These findings suggest that FPH can serve as an effective antimicrobial agent, potentially preventing toxin production and enhancing the safety of perishable foods.
Numerical Investigation of Cold-formed Steel Channel Joist with Web Openings Subjected to Bending
Authors: Duraimurugan KSK. , Baskar Rajaram.
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the structural behaviour of a cold-formed steel channel joist subjected to bending. The channel joists chosen for this investigation were used in the practical design. Channel joists with/without web opening are allowed. The web-opening type consisted of circular and square types. Two different heights of the joist (150 and 200 mm) were considered. An analytical investigation was conducted on the considered experimental models. The finite element analysis modelling method for developing the model using ANSYS16.2 APDL software was used. The significant factors that influence the performance of joists under bending were analysed. Notably, the maximum load-carrying capacity and stiffness were significant factors that were evaluated. A comparison of the experimental and analytical results was performed. As a result, in the case of the web opening made joist, the circular type exhibited better performance than the other web-opening types. A detailed investigation was conducted to fulfil the significance of this study considering the standard analysis procedure.
Insufficient sagittal endplate-bone graft contact is a risk factor for high-grade cage subsidence occurring after lateral lumbar interbody fusion supplemented with lateral plate: An analysis of 122 cases
Authors: Chen Ruijie , Xu Zheng , Chen Qixin , Lai Oujie , Li Hao
Published: March 2024

Background
Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a minimally invasive fusion technique that can be performed with lateral plate. Insufficient contact between the endplate and bone graft in the fusion segment may result in instability and subsequent cage subsidence. This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between endplate-bone graft contact and high-grade cage subsidence (HCS) occurring after LLIF supplemented with lateral plate.
Method
Between June 2017 and February 2023, 122 patients (47 males, 75 females; mean age 62.7 years; minimum follow-up period 12 months) undergoing LLIF supplemented with lateral plate were retrospectively reviewed. The incidence of HCS was assessed, and patients were categorized into HCS group or non-HCS group based on the occurrence of HCS. Comparative analyses were performed on demographic characteristics, surgical variables, and parameters related to endplate-bone graft contact between the two groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the potential risk factors associated with HCS.
Results
The HCS group comprised 13 patients, while the non-HCS group included 109 patients. The incidence of HCS occurring after LLIF supplemented with lateral plate was 10.7%. The sagittal contact rate of endplate-bone graft (OR, 0.844; 95% CI, 0.766–0.931; P < 0.001) and inferior cage-endplate angle (OR, 1.869, 95% CI, 1.215–2.873, P = 0.004) were determined to be significantly correlated with HCS occurring after LLIF supplemented with lateral plate. Compared to non-HCS group, the patients in HCS group had a lower sagittal contact rate of endplate-bone graft and a larger inferior cage-endplate angle.
Conclusion
The incidence of HCS occurring after LLIF supplemented with lateral plate was 10.7%. HCS was significantly associated with insufficient sagittal endplate-bone graft contact. Further study aiming to optimize the sagittal endplate-cage contact in the procedure of LLIF supplemented with lateral plate are warranted to enhance clinical outcomes.
Exosomal-derived miR4485-3p suppresses CD40L to attenuate the function of CD4 + T cells in Mycobacterium leprae infection
Authors: gao wei , Jiang Haiqin , Wang Le , Wang Hongsheng , Meade Yumi , Qin Xihu
Published: March 2024

Background
The expressions of serum exosomes microRNAs (miRNAs) exhibited variations among patients with leprosy, which may have implications for disease diagnosis and treatment. Various miRNAs play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of leprosy infection.
Methods
We identified miRNAs in three groups of serum exosomes by miRNA microarray. And we expanded up to 30 samples of three groups to validate the differentially expressed miRNAs from serum exosome samples. An human mononuclear/macrophage and Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) co-culture system was established in vitro to confirm the expressions of significantly differentially expressed miRNA in supernatant exosomes and cells. Finally, validate the regulatory effects of differentially expressed miRNAs on their predicted target genes through in vitro cell experiments.
Results
Consequently, we isolated exosomes from the serum samples. The expression of serum exosome miR4485-3p was significantly higher in leprosy patients compared with normal controls (p < 0.01), and both were found to be elevated in multi-bacillary (MB) leprosy patients compared to pauci-bacillary (PB) leprosy patients. After conducting validation experiments, miR-4485-3p was found to be able to distinguish between healthy control individuals and leprosy patients with a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 73.3%. After transfecting miR4485-3p mimics into monocytes/macrophages treated with Mycobacterium leprae and co-cultivating them with autologous T cells, we observed that it suppressed the function of CD4+T cells by down-regulating CD40L expression. Additionally, it also inhibited macrophage activity by down-regulating CD40 expression and decreasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the supernatant, thereby promoting bacterial survival.
Conclusions
We have identified higher expression of miR4485-3p in serum exosomes from leprosy patients. Furthermore, Mycobacterium leprae-infected macrophages can modulate CD40L receptors on the surface of CD4+ T cells by delivering miR4485-3p via exosomes, thereby impairing their function in the immune response to Mycobacterium leprae infection.
Biochanin A inhibits excitotoxicity-triggered ferroptosis by targeting GPX4 in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Won Jun Pil , Lee Hyuk Gyoon , Yoon Han Jun , Seo Han Geuk
Published: March 2024

Excitatory neurotransmitter-induced neuronal ferroptosis has been implicated in multiple neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Although there are several reports pertaining to the pharmacological activities of biochanin A, the effects of this isoflavone on excitotoxicity-triggered neuronal ferroptosis remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that biochanin A inhibits ferroptosis of mouse hippocampal neurons induced by glutamate or the glutamate analog, kainic acid. Biochanin A significantly inhibited accumulation of intracellular iron and lipid peroxidation in glutamate- or kainic acid-treated mouse hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, biochanin A regulated the level of glutathione peroxidase 4, a master regulator of ferroptosis, by modulating its autophagy-dependent degradation. We observed that biochanin A reduced the glutamate-induced accumulation of intracellular iron by regulating expression of iron metabolism-related proteins including ferroportin-1, divalent metal transferase 1, and transferrin receptor 1. Taken together, these results indicate that biochanin A effectively inhibits hippocampal neuronal death triggered by glutamate or kainic acid. Our study is the first to report that biochanin A has therapeutic potential for the treatment of diseases associated with hippocampal neuronal death, particularly ferroptosis induced by excitatory neurotransmitter.
Non-dimensional parameters for the flapping dynamics of multilayered plates
Authors: Jain Esha , Saravanakumar Aditya Karthik , Joshi V. , Gurugubelli P S
Published: March 2024

The coupled flow-induced flapping dynamics of flexible plates in uniform axial flows are governed by three non-dimensional numbers, namely: Reynolds number (Re), mass-ratio (m*), and non-dimensional flexural rigidity (KB). The traditional definition of these parameters is limited to isotropic single-layered flexible plates. However, there is a need to define these parameters for a more generic plate of multiple isotropic layers placed on top of each other. In this work, we derive the non-dimensional parameters for a flexible plate of n-isotropic layers and validate the non-dimensional parameters with numerical simulations. The proposed non-dimensional framework connects the experimental, numerical, and analytical studies on single-layered plates with the flapping dynamics of multilayered plates.
Solvent Effects on the Absorption and Emission Spectra of the 5ABBM molecule
Authors: Lalasangi Dayanand , Hanagodimath S. M. , Khanadal Tairabi , Padmashali Basavaraj , Jadhav Mangesh S.
Published: March 2024

The solvent effects on the absorption and emission spectra and dipole moments of the 5ABBM molecule have been extensively studied in a series of solvents. The dipole moments in the excited state are observed to be greater than their ground-state counterparts in all the solvents studied for the chosen molecule. The dipole moment increase in the excited singlet state ranges from 2.42 to 24.14 D. The various methods for a correct prediction of solvatochromic shifts are recalled with reference to previous conflicting theoretical interpretations using Lippert’s, Bakhshiev's, and Kawski-Chamma-Viallet’s equations. Experimentally calculated ground state and excited state dipole moments were calculated using the solvatochromatic shifts of absorption and emission spectra as a function of the dielectric constant (ɛ) and refractive index (n). These data are used to estimate the excited-state dipole moment using an experimentally determined ground-state dipole moment. A series of fifteen different organic solvents (toluene, methanol, n-butyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, DMS, acetonitril, benzene, isopropyl alcohol, water, DMF, DCM, DIO, THF, ethanol, and octonol) were investigated at constant dye concentrations. Small changes in the fluorescence spectrum were observed for the different solvents; the highest fluorescence intensity was observed for DMS and the lowest for water. The stokes shift in different solvents was studied for the 5ABBM molecule. This results in the molecule being more polar in the excited state than in the ground state for the used solvents. The ground statedipole moments, HOMO-LUMO, and molecule electrostatic potential map were also computed using ab initio calculations and evaluated using Gaussian 09 W software.
Simultaneous determination of ethyleneamines by reversed-phase ion-pair chromatography with ultraviolet detection using on-line complexation with copper(II) ion
Authors: Yudo Azusa , Kemmei Tomoko , Kodama Shuji , Inoue Yoshinori , Kagaya Shigehiro
Published: March 2024

A selective and simple method was developed for the determination of four ethyleneamines (EAs), i.e., ethylenediamine (EDA), diethylenetriamine (DETA), triethylenetetramine (TETA), and tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA), by reversed-phase ion-pair chromatography with ultraviolet detection. The method is based on the on-line complexation of EAs with a Cu(II) ion added to the acetate buffer mobile phase (pH 5.5). The Cu(II) complexes with EAs (Cu(II)-EA complexes) were well separated on a reversed-phased column, using 1-octanesulfonate as an ion-pairing reagent. The concentrations of 1-octanesulfonate and acetonitrile in the mobile phase significantly influenced the retention times of EAs. The high concentration of the Cu(II) ion in the mobile phase resulted in the increase of the baseline noise. Optimum mobile phase conditions were as follows: 0.5 mM CuSO4, 50 mM acetate buffer (pH 5.5), 20 mM 1-octanesulfonate, and 23% (v/v) acetonitrile. Cu(II)-EA complexes could be detected at 243 nm. The limits of quantification of EAs (S/N = 10) were 0.003 mM for EDA, DETA, and TETA and 0.01 mM for TEPA. The calibration curves were linear over three orders of magnitude of EA concentrations with high correlation coefficients (r2 = 1.000). The proposed method was successfully applied to determine EAs in epoxy resin curing agents.
Evaluation of PVC@Silver nanocomposite as sensor for low limit detection of Cadmium by SPR based method
Authors: Ali Safaa S. , Ebnalwaled Khalid , Mohamed Gehad G. , Hafez M.
Published: March 2024

This study shows the critical effects of Cadmium Ions contamination which is widely spread specially in industrial field, and this has a dangerous impact on both human and the environment. This study is focusing on the development and exploration of a PVC@Silver nanocomposite to enhance the accurate detection of Cadmium ions in environmental and drinking water samples.
Exfoliated graphite for sorption of liquid hydrocarbons from the water surface: Effect of preparation conditions on sorption capacity and water wettability
Authors: Ivanov Andrei V. , Divitskaya Daria A. , Lavrin Maksim A. , Kravtsov Alexei V. , Volkova Svetlana I. , Maksimova Natalia V. , Kalachev Igor L. , Kirichenko Alexey N. , Rodionov Nikolai B. , Malakho Artem P. , Avdeev Victor V.
Published: March 2024

Exfoliated graphite (EG) is a promising macroporous sorbent for oils and liquid hydrocarbons on water surfaces. The preparation of EG includes a synthesis of graphite intercalation compounds (GIC), expandable graphite and its thermal exfoliation. The structure of the initial GIC has a significant influence on the structure of exfoliated graphite and its sorption properties: sorption capacity and selectivity of water/octane sorption. Thus, the aim of this work was to investigate the relationship between the structure of EG based on GIC of 1–4 stages and EG sorption properties and water wettability. The influence of the GIC stage number on the EG sorption and surface properties is studied. EG obtained from 1-stage GIC at 1000°C is characterized by a higher sorption capacity toward octane than EG from 4-stage GIC. The selectivity of octane/water sorption reduces when increasing the GIC stage number from 1 to 4. The ability to sorb water can be explained by a higher surface area of EG and the presence of remaining oxygen groups on the edges of graphite crystallites in the EG structure. The EG structure was investigated by XRD, SEM, nitrogen adsorption-desorption method, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy.
Carrageenan maintains the contractile phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells by increasing Macromolecular crowding in vitro
Authors: Liu Qing , Jiang Hong-Jing , Wu Yin-Di , Li Jian-Dong , Sun Xu-Heng , Xiao Cong , Xu Jian-Yi , Lin Zhan-Yi
Published: March 2024

Background
The contractile phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) has a good diastolic and contractile capacity, and their altered function is the main pathophysiological basis for diseases such as hypertension. VSMCs always exist in a synthetic phenotype in vitro, making it challenging to maintain the contractile phenotype for research. It is widely recognized that common medium in vitro is significantly less crowded than the in vivo environment. Additionally, VSMCs have a heightened sense of touch to detect medium crowding changes. However, it is unclear whether macromolecular crowding (MMC) can help maintain the contractile phenotype of VSMCs.
Purpose
To study and obtain the phenotypic, behavioral and gene expression changes of VSMCs after increasing the crowding degree by adding carrageenan (CR).
Methods
The medium crowding degree was examined by the dynamic light scattering assay;VSMCs survival and activity were examined by the Calcein/PI cell activity and toxicity assay and CCK-8 assays༛VSMCs phenotype and migration were examined by WB and wound healing assay༛Gene expression was examined by transcriptomic analysis and RT-qPCR.
Results
225 µg/mL CR significantly increased the crowding degree of the medium and did not affect cell survival. Simultaneously, CR significantly promoted contraction phenotypic markers expression in VSMCs, cell length was shortened, cell proliferation was decreased, and cell migration was inhibited. CR significantly altered gene expression in VSMCs. Specifically, 856 genes were up-regulated and 1207 genes were down-regulated. These alterations primarily affected cellular ion channel transport, microtubule movement, cellular respiratory metabolism, amino acid transport, and extracellular matrix synthesis. The up-regulated genes were primarily involved in the cytoskeleton and the contraction process of VSMCs, while the down-regulated genes were mainly involved in extracellular matrix synthesis.
Conclusion
The study showed that VSMCs in vitro can maintain the contractile phenotype by sensing changes in the culture environment's crowding, which can be maintained by adding a concentration of CR.
Association between PM2.5 from a coal mine fire and eosinophilic airway inflammation 7.5 years later
Authors: Kress Sara , Lane Tyler J. , Brown David , Smith Catherine L. , Gao Caroline X. , McCrabb Thomas , Thomas Mikayla , Borg Brigitte M. , Thompson Bruce R. , Abramson Michael J.
Published: March 2024

Background and aim:
There are few long-term studies of respiratory health effects of landscape fires, despite increasing frequency and intensity due to climate change. We investigated the association between exposure to coal mine fire PM2.5 and eosinophilic airway inflammation 7.5 years later.
Methods
Adult residents of Morwell, who were exposed to the 2014 Hazelwood mine fire over 6 weeks, and unexposed residents of Sale, participated in the Hazelwood Health Study Respiratory Stream clinical assessments in 2021, including measurements of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) concentration, a marker of eosinophilic airway inflammation. Individual exposure to coal mine fire PM2.5 was modelled and mapped to time-location diaries. The effect of exposure to PM2.5 on log-transformed FeNO in exhaled breath was investigated using multivariate linear regression models in the entire sample and stratified by potentially vulnerable subgroups.
Results
A total of 326 adults (mean age: 57 years) had FeNO measured. The median FeNO level (interquartile range [IQR]) was 17.5 [15.0] ppb, and individual exposure to coal mine fire PM2.5 was 7.2 [13.8] µg/m3. We did not identify evidence of association between coal mine fire PM2.5 exposure and FeNO in the general adult sample, nor in various potentially vulnerable subgroups. The point estimates were consistently close to zero in the total sample and subgroups.
Conclusion
Despite previous short-term impacts on FeNO and respiratory health outcomes in the medium term, we found no evidence that PM2.5 from the Hazelwood coal mine fire was associated with any long-term impact on eosinophilic airway inflammation.
Effect of BTCA crosslinking on functional properties of of textiles treated with biomasses from Annona Squamosa and Moringa Oleifera
Authors: Sornapudi Sirisha Deepthi , Srivast Meenu , Manchikatla Srinivas , Thavaraj H. Samuel , kumar B.Senthil
Published: March 2024

Two natural extracts were produced with annona squamosa and moringa Oleifera leaves through the ethanol-based solvent. 100% cotton and 80%:20% polyester/cotton blends with an areal density of 113.5 g/m2 and 101 g/m2, respectively. Eight different samples were produced by coating on natural extract as raw form and BTCA cross-linked form on cotton and polyester fabrics. SEM investigation was also done for all the test fabrics. These coated fabrics were investigated for their antimicrobial activity, wicking properties, stiffness, and crease recovery properties. It was found that the BTCA cross-linked fabrics showed higher antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Similarly, the percentage crease recovery angle was higher for the annona squamosa coated sample than moringa Oleifera leave extract in both cotton and P/C samples. Further, it was reported that no significant difference in stiffness values was found between the control samples of cotton and P/C against the treated samples. It was interesting to note that treating the fabrics with cross-linker has improved the vertical wicking property and brought the values closer to control fabric values. This could be interpreted as more hydroxyl groups in the cross linking compound have supported more water penetration.
Association between serum albumin-creatinine ratio and survival in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Baş Onur , Tokatlı Mert , Güdük Naciye , Erdoğan Dilara , Boyraz Nur Evşan , Kavgacı Gözde , Şahin Taha Koray , Güven Deniz Can , Kertmen Neyran , Aksoy Sercan , Erman Mustafa , Yalçın Şuayib , Dizdar Ömer
Published: March 2024

Background
The objective of this study is to assess the correlation between survival outcomes and sACR in patients who are treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
Methods
This study was conducted on individuals who were administered ICI at least 3 doses from 2018 to 2023. Serum-albumin creatinine ratio (sACR) was measured using serum albumin and creatinine values before the immunotherapy. Based on the median level, the patients were divided into two groups: sACR-High and sACR-Low. The relationship between sACR and progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method along with long-rank testing and Cox proportional hazard models. The relationship between sACR and early progression, late progression, and long-term benefit was estimated using a logistic regression method.
Results
A total of 434 patients were included. Patients were divided into sACR-low and high subgroups according to the median. In the multivariate analyses, patients with lower sACR had decreased OS (HR:1.42, 95% CI 1.07–1.89 p = 0.014) and PFS (HR:1,36, 95% CI 1.09–1.70, p = 0.007). Also, after adjustment for gender, age, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score; sACR was associated with early progression ( HR: 1.86 95% CI, 1.14–3.01 p = 0.012), late progression (HR: 2.06, 95% CI 1.0-4.24 p = 0.050) and long-term benefit of ICIs (HR: 1.72, 95% CI 1.002–2.93 p = 0.049).
Conclusions
It was found that sACR, a marker easily obtained through routine biochemistry testing at low cost, could serve as an independent predictor of PFS and OS patients undergoing immunotherapy. Routine lab tests performed for cancer patients may help clinicians identify high-risk patients in whom closer follow-up or protective measures should be considered.
Causal role of immune cells in major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder: Mendelian randomization (MR) study
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wang San-Wang , Ding Jiahao , Wen Xin , Li Tingting , Yang Lu , Peng Jintao , Dong Yingying , Mi Weifeng , Gao Yujun , Sun GuiZhi
Published: March 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are prevalent psychiatric conditions linked to inflammatory processes. This study employs a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to investigate the relationship between immune cells and the risk of MDD and BD. Rigorous sensitivity analyses are conducted to assess the reliability, heterogeneity, and horizontal pleiotropy of the findings. The study reveals a significant association between immune cell profiles and the susceptibility to MDD and BD. Specifically, 29 immunophenotypes exhibit a substantial connection with MDD risk, including CD27 on IgD+ CD38− unswitched memory B cell (inverse variance weighting (IVW): odds ratio(OR) [95%]: 1.017[1.007 to 1.027], p = 0.001), CD27 on IgD+ CD24+ (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.021 [1.011 to 1.031], p = 4.821×10 − 5), CD4 on Central Memory CD4+ T cell(IVW: OR [95%]:0.979 [0.963 to 0.995], p = 0.011) and the other 25 immunophenotypes. Additionally, 35 immunophenotypes demonstrate a significant association with BD risk, such as CD33br HLA DR+ AC AC (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.022[1.007 to 1.036], p = 0.007), CD28+ CD45RA- CD8br %T cell RC (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.024 [1.008 to 1.041], p = 0.004) CD62L on CD62L+ myeloid DC MFI (IVW: OR [95%]:0.926 [0.871 to 0.985], p = 0.014)), and the other 32 immunophenotypes. This MR study provides robust evidence supporting a causal relationship between immune cells and the susceptibility to MDD and BD, offering valuable insights for future clinical investigations.
Synthesis and optimization of 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid in a slurry reactor
Authors: Beiranvand Reza Pirdadeh , Ovaysi Saeed
Published: March 2024

2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid (DHTA) is synthesized under 10 bar pressure and 200°C temperature. Using a slurry reactor, disodium salt of hydroquinone (DSH) is contacted by carbon dioxide gas in presence of sodium acetate as catalyst. A fractional factorial design is used to screen four parameters including reactor pressure, temperature, catalyst to DSH molar ratio, and reaction time. By performing 8 experiments in the screening phase the variables ranges are modified to 175–200°C for temperature, 1.5–2.5 for catalyst to DSH molar ratio, and 3–5 hours for reaction time. Additionally, pressure is kept fixed at 10 bar throughout the remaining experiments. An additional 14 more experiments devised by Box-Behnken design scheme are performed to determine a quadratic model for the DHTA yield against the three parameters mentioned above. A mathematical optimization of the model predicts 83.385% DHTA yield at 200°C, 2.085, and 250 minutes for temperature, catalyst to DSH molar ratio, and reaction time, respectively. These parameter values are put to the test by performing one more experiment under the suggested optimum point. This results in 83% DHTA yield which is in good agreement with the model. For all experiments, the DHTA yields and the composition of byproducts were obtained using HPLC analysis. The optimized product was analyzed using XRD and FTIR analyses and the structure of the synthesized DHTA was confirmed.