bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving dye utilization rate at high concentration to realize cleaner production by changing wettability of cotton
Authors: Chen Hui , Zhang Hongjuan , Ding Lei , Wang Zhengkai , Chen Linguo , Song Xiyu , Pei Liujun , Yang Qun , Wang Jiping
Published: March 2023

Conventional reactive dyeing generates colored effluents with large amounts of salt and alkali. Herein, we firstly used sodium hydroxide to pretreat cotton fabric to obtain different wettability. Then the non-aqueous dyeing system was applied to the eco-friendly dyeing and washing process of cotton fiber. Meanwhile, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FT-IR), Zeta potential, and X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD) analysis had been performed to analyze the difference of cotton fibers before and after pretreatment. Furthermore, the effect of pretreatment on the adsorption behavior was investigated by molecular dynamics simulations (MD). As compared with untreated cotton, the about 23.0 percent increase in K/S value was achieved for azo reactive dyes. Findings from FT-IR, Zeta potential, and XRD spectrum showed that the number of available -OH of cotton involved in the dyeing increased after pretreatment. MD simulations demonstrated that the order of carbon atom on pretreated fibers and desorption coefficient of dyes decreased. While, the interaction energy between dye molecules and pretreated cotton fibers increased. As a result, reactive dye molecules showed a faster adsorption behavior on the pretreated fiber surface. Therefore, the pretreatment of cotton fabric is an effective way to improve the utilization rate of reactive dyes in non-aqueous media and realize the clean dyeing of reactive dyes.
Diagnostic and Prognostic values of systemic inflammatory markers in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhan Fengxia , Geng Congcong , Lei Feng , Yan Shujun , Zheng Xiaoxiao , Zhang Ping , Zhu Shuzhen
Published: March 2023

Purpose
Systemic inflammation plays an important role in the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to systematically and comprehensively analyze the levels of systemic inflammatory markers in CRC patients and their correlation with clinicopathological parameters, to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of systemic inflammatory markers for CRC.
Methods
A total of 115 patients with CRC, 79 patients with adenomatous polyp and 215 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Peripheral blood routine test was measured by SYSMEX XN-9000 Automatic five classifications hematology System. Serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was measured by electrochemiluminescence by immunoassay on the Roche Cobas e701.
Results
The levels of systemic inflammatory biomarkers such as neutrophils, monocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in CRC patients were significantly higher than those in adenomas and healthy controls. Lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) was found statistically significantly lower in CRC patients compared with adenoma and healthy controls. The clinicopathological features of CRC have certain correlation with systemic inflammatory markers. ROC curve analysis showed that LMR, SIRI and RDW had better diagnostic efficiency than other inflammatory markers, and they could effectively distinguish CRC from healthy individuals and adenomas. The combination of systemic inflammatory biomarkers and CEA can improve the diagnostic efficacy of CRC. Especially, the combined application of SIRI, RDW and CEA had the best predictive value with a sensitivity of 78.3% and a specificity of 94%. RDW and CEA served as an independent prognostic indicator in CRC patients.
Conclusions
These results suggested that systemic inflammatory markers of LMR, SIRI and RDW had good diagnostic value. The combination of SIRI, RDW and CEA were the optimal diagnostic biomarkers for CRC. RDW and CEA could be acted as an independent risk factor for CRC prognostic.
Total arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk technique for kommerell's diverticulum with a right-sided aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery
Authors: Yabu Naoto , Minami Tomoyuki , Izubuchi Ryo , Kojima Takahiro , Yamazaki Ichiya
Published: March 2023

Background: Kommerell's diverticulum with a right-sided aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery is uncommon. We perforemed a single-stage procedure with the frozen elephant trunk technique.
we perforemed total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique
Case presentation: A 62-year-old man underwent aortic dissection a year ago, and computerized tomographic angiography performed at that time revealed a right aortic arch, Kommerell's diverticulum (4.2 cm), and an aberrant left subclavian artery. We performed one-stage repair through median sternotomy. The cervical branches were exposed during the operation, and a deep hypothermic circulatory arrest with antegrade cerebral perfusion was established. The aorta was transected distally to the origin of the left carotid artery. We inserted a stent graft into the aorta, followed by peripheral anastomosis using a premade 5-branch Dacron graft. The right subclavian artery and the aorta were reconstructed, and the remaining cervical branches were reconstructed after the cross-clamp had been released.
Conclusions: Total arch replacement through median sternotomy was performed for the right aortic arch, Kommerell's diverticulum, and ALSA. The frozen elephant trunk technique is allowed to perform a one-stage operation safely.
Influence of the filler matrix adhesion and the effects of conditioning on tensile properties of laser sintered parts built with polyamide glass bead dry blends
Authors: Kletetzka Ivo , Kosanke Maren , Meinderink Dennis , Neßlinger Vanessa , Grundmeier Guido , Schmid Hans-Joachim
Published: March 2023

In this work, the influence of the filler matrix adhesion on the tensile properties of laser-sintered parts built with Polyamide 613 filled with glass beads was investigated. For this purpose, dry blends of glass beads with and without organosilane coupling agents and polyamide powder were prepared and processed into tensile specimens on an EOS P396. The samples were tested both in the dry state and after an accelerated conditioning in a climate chamber. Furthermore, FEM simulations were performed to model the limiting cases of optimum adhesion and no adhesion. By correlating the tensile tests with the simulation results and by analyzing the fracture surfaces, it was shown that the filler matrix adhesion is sufficient in the dry state but is strongly degraded by conditioning. Even the presence of various organosilane thin films could not prevent a strong deterioration of the filler-matrix adhesion and the associated deterioration of the mechanical properties. Since a comparison with an injection molded sample of the same polymer filler combination shows identical behavior after conditioning, it is assumed that this problem is not limited to additively manufactured parts.
Antioxidant activity of flavonoids and phenolic acids from Dodonaea angustifolia flower: HPLC profile and PASS prediction
Authors: Tessema Fekade Beshah , Gonfa Yilma Hunde , Tadesse Mesfin Getachew , Asfaw Tilahun Belayneh , Bachheti Rakesh Kumar
Published: March 2023

Background
Dodonaea angustifolia is a known medicinal plant across East Arica. The flower of D. angustifolia is not well investigated in terms of phytochemistry and biological activities. This study aims to investigate the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acid in the flower of D. angustifolia and its antioxidant activity.
Methods
Preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out using standard protocols. Antioxidant activity evaluation using DPPH assay and total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) determinations in the flower extract was compared with the values of the leaf extract. UHPLC–DAD analysis was managed to develop the profile of the flower extract. Prediction of biological activity spectra for substances (PASS) was done using an online server for antioxidant and related activities.
Results
Preliminary phytochemical screening, TPC, and TFC values confirmed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids. From HPLC analysis of flavonoids: quercetin, myricetin, rutin, and phenolic acids: chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, and syringic acid were detected and quantified. The biological activity spectrum was predicted for the detected and quantified polyphenols.
Conclusions
D. angustifolia flower is a rich source of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are extractable and can be checked for further biological activity. It was possible to identify and quantify phenolic compounds through HPLC analysis in the methanol extract of D. angustifolia flower. PASS biological activity prediction results showed that there were stronger antioxidant activities for the identified flavonoids. Future work will emphasize the isolation and characterization of active principles responsible for bioactivity.
Investigate the possibility of using phosphorescence in clinical oncology as an early prognostic test in detecting brain carcinogenesis
Authors: Vinnyk Yuriy O. , Kryvoruchko Igor A. , Boyko Valeriy V. , Ivanova Yulia V. , Gramatiuk Svetlana , Sargsyan Karine
Published: March 2023

Phosphorescence is considered one of the non-invasive glioblastoma testing methods based on studying molecular energy and the metabolism of L-tryptophan (Trp) through KP, which provides essential information on regulating immunity and neuronal function.
This study aimed to conduct a feasibility study using phosphorescence in clinical oncology as an early prognostic test in detecting Glioblastoma.
Materials and Methods. This study was conducted on 1039 patients who were operated on with follow-up between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2022, and retrospectively evaluated in participating institutions in Ukraine (the Department of Oncology, Radiation Therapy, Oncosurgery, and Palliative Care at the Kharkiv National Medical University). Method of protein phosphorescence detection included two steps. During the first step, of luminol-dependent phosphorescence intensity in serum was carried out after its activation by the light source, according to the spectrofluorimeter method, as follows. At a temperature of 30oC, serum drops were dried for 20 minutes to form a solid film. After that, we put the quartz plate with dried serum in a phosphoroscope of luminescent complex and measured the intensity. With the help of Max-Flux Diffraction Optic Parallel Beam Graded Multilayer Monochromator (Rigaku Americas Corporation) following spectral lines as 297, 313, 334, 365, 404, and 434 nm were distinguished and absorbed by serum film in the form of light quantum. The monochromator exit split width was 0.5 mm.
Results and conclusion. Considering the limitations of each of the non-invasive tools currently available, phosphorescence-based diagnostic methods are ideally integrated into the NIGT platform: a non-invasive approach for visualizing a tumor and its main tumor characteristics in the spatial and temporal order. Because trp is present in virtually every cell in the body, these fluorescent and phosphorescent fingerprints can be used to detect cancer in many different organs. Using phosphorescence, it is possible to create predictive models for GBM in both primary and secondary diagnostics. This will assist clinicians in selecting the appropriate treatment option, monitoring treatment, and adapting to the era of patient-centered precision medicine.
Optimal surgical management of duodenal fistula in Crohn’s disease: a Korean multicenter cohort study
Authors: Oh Soo Young , Kim Young Il , Yoon Yong Sik , Cho Min Soo , Park Min Young , Ryoo Seung-Bum , Lee Jong Lyul , Kim Chan Wook , Park In Ja , Lim Seok-Byung , Yu Chang Sik
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Duodenal fistula in Crohn’s disease (CDF) is a rare condition with an unclear optimal surgical management approach. We reviewed a Korean multicenter cohort of CDF surgery cases and assessed their perioperative outcomes to evaluate the effectiveness of the surgical interventions.
Methods: The medical records of patients who underwent CD surgery between January 2006 and December 2021 from three tertiary medical centers were retrospectively reviewed. Only CDF cases were included in this study. The demographic and preoperative characteristics, perioperative details, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.
Results: Among the initial population of 2149 patients who underwent surgery for CD, 23 cases (1.1%) had a CDF operation. Fourteen of these patients (60.9%) had a history of previous abdominal surgery, and 7 had duodenal fistula at the previous anastomosis site. All duodenal fistulas were excised and primarily repaired via a resection of the originating adjacent bowel. Additional procedures such as gastrojejunostomy, pyloric exclusion, or t-tube insertion was performed in 8 patients (34.8%). Eleven patients (47.8%) experienced post operative complications including for anastomosis leakages. Fistula recurrence was noted in 3 patients (13%) of which one patient required a re-operation. Biologics administration was associated with fewer adverse events by multivariable analysis (P = 0.026, Odds ratio = 0.081). Conclusion: Optimal perioperative conditioning of patients receiving a primary repair of a fistula and resection of the original diseased bowel can successfully cure CDF. Along with primary repair of the duodenum, other complementary additional procedures should be considered for better postoperative outcomes.
Nanometer-thick crystalline and amorphous zeolitic imidazolate framework films for membrane and patterning applications
Authors: Liu Qi , Miao Yurun , Villalobos Luis Francisco , Li Shaoxian , Babu Deepu J. , Chen Cailing , Chi Heng-Yu , Vahdat Mohammad Tohidi , Hao Jian , Song Shuqing , Han Yu , Tsapatsis Michael , Agrawal Kumar Varoon
Published: March 2023

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are a subset of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with more than 200 characterized crystalline and amorphous networks made of divalent transition metal centers (e.g., Zn2+ and Co2+) linked by imidazolate linkers. ZIF thin films have been pursued intensively motivated by the desire to prepare membranes for selective gas and liquid separations. To achieve membranes with high throughput, as in Å-scale biological channels with nanometer-scale pathlengths, ZIF films with the minimum possible thickness, down to just one unit cell, are highly desired. Control of ZIF film thickness at the 10-nm-scale may also enable emerging, MOF-inspired, applications including patterned crystalline MOF films, and amorphous organic-inorganic resists for high-resolution electron-beam (e-beam) and extreme UV (EUV) lithography. However, the state-of-the-art methods yield ZIF films with thicknesses exceeding 40 nanometers. Here, we report a deposition method from ultra-dilute precursor mixtures that within minutes yields uniform ZIF deposits with nm-scale thickness control. On crystalline substrate such as graphene, two-dimensional crystalline ZIF (2DZIF) film with thickness of a unit-cell could be achieved, which composed of a six-membered zincimidazolate coordination ring enabling record-high H2 permselective separation performance. Deposition under identical conditions on amorphous substrates yields macroscopically smooth amorphous ZIF (aZIF) films, which can be used as negative- and positive-tone resists yielding pattern features down to 20 nm. The method reported here will likely accelerate the development of 2D crystalline and ultrathin amorphous MOF films for applications ranging from separation membranes to sensors and patterning for microelectronic applications.
The impact of the CoVid-19 pandemic on rates of adolescents receiving psychopharmacological medication in Austria
Authors: Otter Markus , Kothgassner Oswald D. , Lepuschütz Lena , Drahos Stephanie , Plener Paul L.
Published: March 2023

Background: The CoVid-19 pandemic has impacted many aspects of everyday life, including the (mental) health care system. An increase in depression and anxiety symptoms has been reported worldwide, which is particularly pronounced in females and young people. We aimed at evaluating changes in patient rates of those receiving psychopharmacological medication, often used in treating depression and anxiety.
Method: Based on data of the Austrian public health insurance institutions, we conducted an interrupted time series analysis of antidepressants, antipsychotics and benzodiazepines comparing patient rate developments before and throughout the Covid19 pandemic (2013 to 2021), with a special focus on adolescents in comparison to the general population. Age- and sex specific ARIMA models were fitted to the pre Corona period (2013 Q1 – 2020 Q2), used to generate forecasts for the period from 2020 Q3 to 2021 Q4 and then compared to observed developments in the same period to assess significant deviations from the forecasted expactable development paths.
Results: A significant excess of patients receiving antidepressants both among male and female adolescents (10-14 and 15-19 years) in comparison to the expectable development path was found in most of the evaluated period (2020 Q3 – 2021 Q4), while the general population was found to be mostly within 97.5% confidence bands of the forecasts. With regards to antipsychotics, the interrupted time series analysis showed a significant excess of patients in the group of female adolescents in almost all quarters, which was especially pronounced in the age group 15-19. Antipsychotics patient rates within the general population only showed significant excess in two quarters. No significant uptake beyond the expactable development paths were found in regard to prescriptions of benzodiazepines in any group.
Conclusion: Increased rates of patients receiving antidepressants and antipsychotics, which were especially pronounced in female adolescents, echo epidemiological evidence from multiple studies worldwide reporting an increase in depression and anxiety. Whereas the increasing rates of adolescent patients receiving antidepressants correspond with the use of this medication class as proposed in treatment guidelines for the respective disorders, the increased patient rates in antipsychotics might be understood as a signal for the off-label use of these compounds.
Progesterone-Mediated Reversal of Mifepristone-Induced Pregnancy Termination in an Animal Model: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Camilleri Christina , Sammut Stephen
Published: March 2023

Background
A substantial proportion of pregnancies end in induced abortion globally, with drug-induced abortion increasing in availability and use. However, data also indicates a percentage of women who, following mifepristone administration, seek assistance in potentially reversing the abortion process. While previous literature has suggested the potential for progesterone-mediated reversal of mifepristone-induced abortion, this process has not been effectively investigated pre-clinically, with only one rat model indicating the potential based on simultaneous mifepristone/progesterone administration. Thus, our study explored the potential reversal of mifepristone-induced pregnancy termination using progesterone in an animal model (administered at a human equivalent of ~ 6–9 hours post-mifepristone), where the process of pregnancy termination was clearly initiated.
Methods
Female Long-Evans rats were divided into three groups (n = 10–16/group): Pregnant control (M-P-), mifepristone-only/abortion (M + P-) and mifepristone + progesterone (M + P+). Drug/vehicle administration occurred on day 12 of gestation (first-trimester human equivalent). Rat weight was measured throughout gestation. Uterine blood, collected post-drug/vehicle administration, was analyzed spectrophotometrically to measure blood loss. Additionally, at the end of gestation (day 21), ultrasound was utilized to confirm pregnancy and measure fetal heart rate. Number of gestational sacs, uterine weights and diameters were obtained following tissue collection.
Results
Our results indicate that progesterone administration following mifepristone-induced initiation of abortion (indicated by weight loss and uterine bleeding) reversed the process in 81% of rats in the M + P + group. Furthermore, following the initial weight loss, rats in this group proceeded to gain weight at a similar rate to those in the M-P- group, in contrast to the continued decrease displayed by the M + P- group (and unsuccessful reversals). Moreover, while uterine blood loss was similar to that of the M + P- group (confirming abortion initiation), number of gestational sacs, uterine weights, diameters, approximate fetal weights and fetal heart rates were similar to the M-P- group.
Conclusions
Thus, our results indicate a clear progesterone-mediated reversal of an initiated mifepristone-induced pregnancy termination in an animal model (i.e., pre-clinical level) at first-trimester human equivalent, with resultant fully developed living fetuses at the end of gestation, clearly indicating the necessity for further pre-clinical investigation to assist in better informing the scientific and medical communities of the potential implications in humans.
Liquefaction assessment using alternative approaches: a case study of Ho Chi Minh City stratigraphy
Authors: DOAN NHAT-PHI , Nguyen Van Nam , Doan Duy Triet , Park Sung-Sik
Published: March 2023

Liquefaction has been known as a phenomenon in which the shear strength and stiffness of saturated soil are reduced by the generation of pore water pressure under earthquake loading. Consequently, liquefaction-induced settlement can result in severe damages including building cracks or slope failure, which pose a threat to human lives and properties. In the current Vietnamese standard TCVN 9386:2012, liquefaction potential hazard is often evaluated using the simplified method, which solely identifies the areas with a high risk of liquefaction. Prediction of Safety Factor (FS), Settlement (S), Liquefaction Potential Index (LPI), and Liquefaction Severity Number (LSN) has not received sufficient attention to a completeness standard. This study assesses the liquefaction of the ground at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam by using four conventional methods: the simplified procedure, linear equivalent analysis, loosely-coupled effective stress analysis, and fully-coupled effective stress analysis based on standard penetration test (SPT) data in Ho Chi Minh Metropolitan City. A class of seismic events that are compatible with the design response spectrum in the Vietnamese standard TCVN 9386:2012 is used as input ground motion at the bedrock. According to the results of different methods, maps of ground settlement, LPI, and LSN are proposed as useful references for construction works on such ground, which may have a high potential for liquefaction and subsidence.
Prediction of Coral Sea tropical cyclone power and latitude of maximum intensity using climate indices
Authors: Miller John G. , Silva Guilherme Vieira da , Strauss Darrell
Published: March 2023

Tropical cyclone (TC) wind power, often highly destructive, can be quantified using the power dissipation index (PDI) and in this study, the PDIs for Coral Sea TC tracks, as well as the latitude of maximum intensity (LMI) were investigated for correlation with climatological indices. Multiple linear regression with collinearity removed and an overall Pearson correlation of 0.7 or above was used for this. The results for all tracks showed that three indices dominated for PDI: Niño 4 Sea Surface Temperature (SST), the Dipole Mode Index (DMI) and the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO). The TC tracks clustered by maximum windspeed-weighted locations were then examined: For cluster 1 (located SE Australia), the additional influence of the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) was apparent, whilst for cluster 2 (located NW Australia), the same indices dominated as for the all-tracks model. For LMI, four indices were identified: the Indian Ocean East SST Anomaly (DMI E), the MJO, the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and the SAM. Only TCs clustered in the northeast of Australia had a valid model for LMI, with correlation 0.8, using three indices: DMI E, DMI and the SOI. Overall, raised Niño 4 SST combined with a negative DMI and low MJO amplitude were shown to predict large increases in TC power, whilst a combination of increasing DMI E temperature anomaly with a positive SOI moves LMI equator-wards. Improved understanding of the relative influences of the climate indices on TC power dissipation has direct ramifications for the future risk/hazard profile of coastal communities.
Effects of maternal subclinical hypothyroidism on neurodevelopment of offspring-An animal-based study
Authors: Farhat Sabah , Fatima Syeda Sadia , Iqbal Mehirunisa , Arain Fazal
Published: March 2023

Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is characterized by high thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (4.5 to 10 IU/L) and normal T3 and T4 hormones. It may occur with or without mild symptoms of hypothyroidism and autoimmunity. In pregnancy one of the common complications is SCH. Multiple adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes such as cognitive and neuropsychiatric effects are associated with SCH. Globally, 3-15% of the general population is affected by SCH. In Pakistan, the prevalence of SCH is ~ 8.1% in women during gestation. This study was conducted to see the effects of maternal SCH during pregnancy on young rats in terms of behavioural and gross brain structure changes and their reversibility after treatment with levothyroxine. Method: 14 Female Sprague Dawley rats (200–300g) were acclimatized and allowed to get impregnated. They were divided into 3 groups. 1. Treated (n=4): was induced with SCH by propylthiouracil (PTU) 5µg/kg/day at PD6 and treated with levothyroxine from gestational day 16 to postnatal day 40. 2. Untreated (n=5): was induced with SCH and left untreated. 3. Control (n=5) was administered with equal volumes of saline. Body weight of pups was recorded regularly. Histological procedures were performed at postnatal day 7, 14 and 21 to identify any neonatal neurological problems. Behavioural tests such as elevated plus maze, forced swim and tail suspension tests were performed to test anxiety and depression. Result: On postnatal day 7, pups from the untreated mothers showed a substantial decline in body weight compared to treated and control groups. These differences were more profound with age at P14 and P21. No major changes were seen in the gross brain structure of untreated rats as compared to treated rats. The most depressed behaviour was found in pups from untreated dams evident from significantly increased immobility time in FST and TST as compared to healthy ones. Conclusion: Despite the absence of any gross changes in the brain structure, minor but significant behavioural difference, indicative of depression, was observed in the pups of untreated rats.
A Comparative Analyses of Lipid Ratios Representing Desaturase Enzyme Activity between Preterm and Term Infants Within the First Ten Weeks of Life
Authors: Kasim Hanis Hidayu , Olga Laurentya , Snowden Stuart , Cropp Eliza , Koulman Albert , Beardsall Kathrynn
Published: March 2023

Background
Desaturase enzymes play a key role in several pathways including biosynthesis of poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). In preterm infants, desaturase enzyme activity (DA) may be a rate-limiting step in maintaining PUFAs levels during this critical developmental window and impact on long term metabolic health. The study tested the hypothesis that desaturase enzyme activity is altered in preterm infants compared to term infants in early life.
Methods
Lipidomic analyses were conducted using blood samples from two established UK-based cohorts, involving very preterm (n = 105) and term (n = 259) infants. Blood samples were taken from term infants at birth, two and six weeks and from preterm infants when established on enteral feeds and at term corrected age. DA of the 2 groups of infants were estimated from product/precursor lipids ratios of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and triglycerides (TG) species and reported according to their postmenstrual and postnatal ages.
Results
There were changes in lipid ratios representing desaturase enzyme activity in preterm infants in the first weeks of life with increasing activity of fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) TG but a significant reducing activity of stearoyl-COA desaturase (SCD1) and FADS2(PC). In comparison to term infants, preterm have lower FADS1 but higher FADS2 at all postnatal ages. Although point levels of DA were different, trajectories of changes in DA over time were similar in preterm and term infants.
Conclusions
This study findings suggest the patterns of DA in preterm infants differ from that of term infants but their trajectories of change in the first 10 weeks of life were similar. These differences of desaturases activity if they persist in later life could contribute to the mechanism of diseases in preterm adulthood and warrant further investigations.
Association between macronutrient intake and liver dysfunction among tuberculosis patients in rural China
Authors: Liangjie Zhao , Li Mingxin , Li Yue , Hao Haibo , Zhao Shanliang , Ma Aiguo , Cai Jing
Published: March 2023

Background
Macronutrients play a vital role in liver dysfunction and affect the treatment and prognosis of tuberculosis. This study aimed to clarify the associations between macronutrients intakes or to energy percentages and liver dysfunction in tuberculosis patients.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 2695 active tuberculosis patients aged ≥ 18 years were included based on the data from local tuberculosis clinics in Linyi rural areas, China. Macronutrients intakes and to energy percentages were assessed by the 24-hour dietary recalls. The concentration of alanine transferase (ALT) or aspartate transaminase (AST) greater than 40 U/L was defined liver dysfunction. In addition, restricted cubic spline (RCS) was applied to determine the dose-response relationships.
Results
Among those who were male, or normal BMI, or consumed energy less than 1646.80 kcal/d, it was suggested both inverse associations between protein (47.30–78.80 g/d) or fat (> 20.30 g/d) intake and the risks of liver dysfunction in all models (all P-trend < 0.05). Moreover, the RCS model showed J-shaped associations between protein, fat intake, the fat or carbohydrate to energy percentages and the odds of liver dysfunction (the cut-off values = 70.69 g/d, 47.50 g/d, 22% and 69%, respectively, and all P-nonlinearity < 0.05).
Conclusions
An appropriate increase in dietary intakes of protein or fat might reduce liver dysfunction risk. However, intakes of more than 70.69 g/d for protein or 47.50 g/d for fat could increase the risk of liver dysfunction. Our study may provide a novel idea of alleviating liver dysfunction with nutritional improvement.
Water productivity and production of grape tomatoes under different irrigation regimes controlled by modeled substrate matric potential
Authors: de Freitas Fabio Tayrone Oliveira , Silva Alisson Jadavi Pereira da , Vellame Lucas Melo
Published: March 2023

The knowledge of critical limits of water potential in the substrate (Ψ) allows performing irrigations that do not exceed the capacity of water storage in the substrate and do not harm crop yield through water stress of plants. This is an irrigation management strategy particularly useful for automation of soil water sensing systems. In this study, substrate water retention curve was determined by inverse modeling and originated two ranges of Ψ used as a reference for irrigation scheduling: range 1, upper critical (UP Ψ) = -6 kPa and lower critical (LC Ψ) = -40 kPa; and range 2, UP Ψ = -14 kPa and LC Ψ = -40 KPa. These limits were applied in the irrigation scheduling of grape tomato in a fixed form and by changing the critical limits according to the crop development stage. The irrigation water productivity of tomato crop was determined as a function of variations in the values and form of application of Ψ. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse. Tomato plants were cultivated in pots filled with substrate, fertigated by an automated drip irrigation system. Tomato evapotranspiration was determined using a weighing lysimeter. Soil water content was monitored by GS1 and TDR100 sensors. Grape tomato yield was not significantly affected by the different ranges of Ψ applied. On the other hand, water productivity was statistically higher in plants subjected to range 2 throughout the crop cycle and when this range was applied in at least one of the crop development stages.
The Effect of the JAK-inhibitor Tofacitinib on Chondrocyte Autophagy in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Ping , Xiao Juan , Luo Chenggen , Liu Xiaorui , Li Chunyan , Zhao Jing , Liu Xu , Pan Xiaoli , Tian Mei
Published: March 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial disease of the whole joint that has a complex pathogenesis. There is currently no cure for OA. Tofacitinib is a broad JAK inhibitor that can have an anti-inflammatory effect. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of tofacitinib on the cartilage extracellular matrix in OA and determine whether tofacitinib exerts a protective effect by inhibiting the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway and upregulating autophagy in chondrocytes. We established an vitro OA model by exposing SW1353 cells to interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and induced OA in rats using the modified Hulth method. We found that IL-1β promoted the expression of OA-related matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3 and MMP-13), reduced the expression of collagen II, reduced the expression of beclin1 and LC3-II/I, and promoted the accumulation of p62 in SW1353 cells. Tofacitinib attenuated IL-1β-stimulated changes in MMPs and collagen II and restored chondrocyte autophagy. In IL-1β-stimulated SW1353 cells, the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway was activated. Tofacitinib inhibited the IL-1β-stimulated expression of p-JAK1 and p-STAT3 and prevented translocation of p-STAT3 to the nucleus. In the rat model of OA, tofacitinib reduced articular cartilage degeneration by delaying cartilage extracellular matrix degradation and increasing chondrocyte autophagy. Our study demonstrates that chondrocyte autophagy was impaired in experimental models of OA. Tofacitinib reduced the inflammatory response and restored the damaged autophagic flux in OA.
Development and implementation of in-process, orbiting laser-assisted healing technique on fused filament fabrication
Authors: Han Pu , Zhang Sihan , Tofangchi Alireza , Izquierdo Julio , Torabnia Shams , Hsu Keng
Published: March 2023

Fused filament fabrication is one of the most widely used additive manufacturing processes for producing thermal plastic polymer materials due to the affordable cost and capability to build objects with complex structures. However, parts fabricated with this process exhibit lower mechanical strength when compared to parts manufactured using traditional methods. In this work, an in-process orbiting laser healing technique is developed and implemented on a 3D printer to enhance mechanical strength by improving interlayer adhesion. The orbiting laser assembly can position and align the laser-heated spot before the change of nozzle direction occurs, ensuring that the previous layer is heated prior to material deposition. This laser-heating technique increases the bending strength along build direction by 40% and reaches 88.9% of strength along track direction. With this technique, the displacement at facture also increased by 54.3% compared to control sample. The thermal profile of the melting pool and fracture surface was further characterized using a thermal camera and SEM to support the effect of laser heating on polymer microstructure, respectively. Due to its enhanced print quality and lower cost, this technique has the potential to expand the application field of fused filament fabrication to small batch and series production that are currently dominated by injection molding, as well as the high-quality prototyping field.
Influence of Adaptive Coupling Points on Coalition Formation in Multi-Energy Systems
Authors: Schrage Rico , Nieße Astrid
Published: March 2023

The share and variants of coupling points (CPs) between different energy carrier networks (such as the gas or power grids) are increasing, which results in the necessity of the analysis of so-called multi-energy systems (MES). One approach is to consider the MES as a graph network, in which coupling points are modeled as edges with energy efficiency as weight. On such a network, local coalitions can be formed using multi-agent systems leading to a dynamic graph partitioning, which can be a prerequisite for the efficient decentralized system operation. However, the graph can not be considered static, as the energy units representing CPs can shut down, leading to network decoupling and affecting graph partitions. This paper aims to evaluate the effect of network adaptivity on the dynamics of an exemplary coalition formation approach from a complex network point of view using a case study of a benchmark power network extended to an MES. This study shows: first, the feasibility of complex network modeling of MES as a cyber-physical system; second, how the coalition formation system behaves, how the coupling points impact this system, and how these impact metrics relate to the CP node attributes.
The Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β in Zinc Mediated Neuroprotective Effect of Metformin in Rats With Glutamate Neurotoxicity
Authors: Oruc Aykut , Oruc Kadriye Yagmur , Yanar Karolin , Mengi Murat , Caglar Aysel , Kurt Bahar Ozturk , Altan Mehmet , Sonmez Osman Fuat , Cakatay Ufuk , Uzun Hafize , Simsek Gonul
Published: March 2023

Metformin has been suggested to have protective effects on the central nervous system with an unclarified mechanism. The similarity between the effects of metformin and the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β suggests that metformin may inhibit GSK-3β. In addition, zinc is an important element that inhibits GSK-3β by phosphorylation. In this study, it was investigated whether the effects of metformin on neuroprotection and neuronal survival were mediated by zinc-dependent inhibition of GSK-3β in rats with glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. Forty adult male rats were divided into 5 groups; Control, Glutamate, Metformin + Glutamate, Zinc Deficiency + Glutamate, Zinc Deficiency + Metformin + Glutamate. Zinc deficiency was induced with a zinc-poor pellet. Metformin was given orally for 35 days. D-glutamic acid was administered intraperitonally on the 35th day. On the 38th day, neurodegeneration was examined histopathologically and effects on neuronal protection and survival were evaluated via intracellular S-100β immunohistochemical staining. The findings were examined in relation to non-phosphorylated (active) GSK-3β levels and oxidative stress parameters observed in brain tissue and blood. Neurodegeneration was higher (p < 0.05) in rats fed with an inadequate zinc diet. Active GSK-3β levels were increased in groups with neurodegeneration (p < 0.01). Decreased neurodegeneration and increased neuronal survival (p < 0.01); decreased active GSK-3β (p < 0.01) levels and oxidative stress parameters, and increased antioxidant parameters were observed in groups treated with metformin (p < 0.01). Metformin had less protective effects in rats fed with an inadequate zinc diet. Metformin may demonstrate its neuroprotective effects and may increase S-100β mediated neuronal survival by a zinc-dependent inhibition of GSK-3β in glutamate neurotoxicity.
A simple neural model for unlabelled data
Authors: Çiftçi Ünver
Published: March 2023

Neural networks are powerful tools for modelling big unstructured data. Advanced architectures and learning methods are used in applications. Nevertheless simpler models which use less data could be helpful. We propose a very simple learning algorithm in order to model the data distribution. Experiments show how effective and data-efficient our method is. Code is available at https://github.com/unverciftci/toUniform.
In situ synthesis of AuNPs by hyperbranched polyethyleneimine-functionalized apple pomace-derived cellulose as recyclable catalysts for 4-nitrophenol reduction
Authors: Lin Tao , Li Yuxi , Zhang Jifan , Zhang Yixun , Huo Kefeng , Liu Yi , Liu Xunyong
Published: March 2023

To improve the utilization rate of apple pomace and the catalytic stability and recycling performance of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), as well as realize the high value utilization of inexpensive materials and the reuse of expensive materials, a recyclable AuNP catalyst based on hyperbranched polyethyleneimine-dialdehyde cellulose (HPEI-DAC) was developed. We used apple pomace as raw material to extract cellulose and oxidize it into easily modifiable DAC. A novel HPEI-DAC carrier with both reduction performance and easy separation performance was successfully prepared by grafting HPEI onto DAC through a Michael addition reaction. Taking advantage of the reduction properties and special topology of HPEI-DAC, AuNPs with high stability were prepared in situ. The prepared AuNPs/HPEI-DAC had high catalytic activity and reusability, which could realize the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and the recovery of AuNPs after catalysis. At 25 ℃, the catalytic efficiency of AuNPs/HPEI-DAC only decreased from 100% to 91% after being reused 6 times that was, its catalytic activity did not decrease significantly. These results show that the catalyst has excellent catalytic performance and reusability in reducing 4-NP organic pollutants and is expected to be used as an ideal catalyst in environmental treatment and other fields.
Some q-supercongruences for double basic hypergeometric series
Authors: Wei Chuanan , Li Chun
Published: March 2023

In terms of the creative microscoping method, El Bachraoui’s lemma, and the Chinese remainder theorem for coprime polynomials, we establish some q-supercongruences for double basic hypergeometric series modulo the fifth and fourth powers of a cyclotomic polynomial. Several related conjectures are also proposed for further research.
AMS Subject Classifications: 11A07, 11B65
Morphological and molecular characterization of multiplier onion (Allium cepa var. aggregatum) genotypes
Authors: Gupta Amar Jeet , Khade Yogesh P. , Mahajan V , Hange SR , Shalaka RS , Singh Major
Published: March 2023

Multiplier onion (Allium cepa var. aggregatum), commonly known as shallot or potato onion, has been cultivated on a large scale in southern parts of India. It is mostly propagated by bulbs except few genotypes which produces seeds. It is famous for its use in the preparation of sambar which is an important South Indian dish. The multiplier onion produces 6–15 small bulbs in a cluster. Thus, its morphological and molecular characterization is an essential part for the genetic improvement. An experiment was laid out in the experimental field of ICAR-DOGR, Rajgurunagar, Pune during rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21 for screening of multiplier onion lines suitable for domestic as well as export purpose. The genotype 1534-Agg recorded highest total yield (287.17 q/ha). Molecular characterization of the multiplier onion was performed using recently produced polymorphic DNA-based molecular markers in onions (ILP-Intron Length Polymorphism markers). The genetic diversity of 36 genotypes of multiplier onion was examined using 17 ILP markers in this study. PIC values ​​ranged from 0.03 to 0.44 with a mean of 0.24, and amplification of ILP markers revealed a total of 41 loci, one of which was monomorphic. A total of 1008 bands were obtained. Principal component analysis (PCA) detected one PC contributing 54.54% of the genetic diversity of genotypes. A total of 17 primers were amplified and they produced 41 alleles in these genotypes. The genotypes 1539-Agg and 1523-Agg have the highest degree of similarity (0.97) in cluster A whereas, the least degree of similarity was revealed in cluster E between genotypes 1549-Agg and 1533-Agg. The genetic diversity among multiplier onion genotypes was estimated based on similarity coefficient of molecular markers facilitates the selection of diverse parents that can generate desirable segregants in future breeding program.
Traditional Chinese medicine based integrated health interventions for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ruan Jiayin , Chen Shucheng , Liang Jiagui , Ho Fiona Yan Yee , Cheung Teris , Ho Janice Yuen Shan , Chan Wai Chi , Chen Haiyong , Au Dennis Cheuk Wing , Lee Rebecca Wing Yan , Mak Yim Wah , Yeung Wing Fai
Published: March 2023

Background: Some Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-based integrated health interventions have been used for depression, but pooled efficacy remains unknown.
Aims and objectives: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the efficacy of TCM-based integrated health interventions for relieving depression.
Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on 17 databases from inception up to June 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined an integrated health intervention based on TCM theory for depression were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the second version of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, and the quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system.
Results: Eighteen RCTs with a total of 1,448 depressed participants were included. Health care providers, mainly nurses (14 studies), implemented TCM-based integrated health interventions. The pooled results showed that TCM-based integrated health interventions had larger effects on reducing depressive symptoms (15 studies; standardized mean difference = −2.05; 95% CI: −2.74, −1.37; p < 0.00001) compared with usual care at posttreatment but showed no significant difference contrasted to cognitive behavioral therapy (two studies, p = 0.31). However, the overall evidence was low.
Conclusions: The meta-analysis results indicated that TCM-based integrated health interventions were effective in reducing depression. However, the results should be interpreted with caution because of the low quality of the included studies. Future RCTs with rigorous designs should be conducted to provide robust evidence of the efficacy of TCM-based integrated health interventions in treating depression.
Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: Perioperative, functional, and oncological outcomes
Authors: Banno Taro , Nakamura Kazutaka , Ozaki Akihiko , Kouchi Yukiko , Ohira Tadashi , Shimmura Hiroaki
Published: March 2023

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with previous holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is challenging, and few studies have analyzed its perioperative, functional, and oncological outcomes. Here we retrospectively evaluated 298 robot-assisted radical prostatectomies, including 25 with and 273 without previous holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, performed in 2015–2022. Regarding perioperative outcomes, operative and console times were significantly longer in the previous holmium laser enucleation of the prostate group. In contrast, the estimated blood loss was similar between groups, and there were no transfusions or intraoperative complications. Multivariable Cox hazard regression analysis of the functional outcomes of postoperative urinary continence showed that body mass index, intraoperative bladder neck repair, and nerve sparing were independently associated factors, whereas a history of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate was not. Similarly, a history of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate was not associated with biochemical recurrence; however, positive surgical margins and seminal vesicle invasion were independent risk factors of biochemical recurrence. Our findings revealed that robot-assisted radical prostatectomy after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate was safe and raised no concerns of postoperative urinary incontinence or biochemical recurrence. Therefore, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy may be a treatment option for patients with prostate cancer after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate.