bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered kirigami design of PVDF-Pt core-shell nanofiber network for flexible transparent electrode
Authors: Park Heesung , Si Hyeokjun , Gu Junseo , Lee Donghyun , Park Donghyuck , Lee Young-In , Kim Kwanlae
Published: December 2022

Nanofiber networks comprising polymer-metal core-shell structures exhibit several advantages, such as high uniformities and considerable flexibilities. Additionally, the flexibility of the nanofiber network may be further enhanced by engineering the network topology. Therefore, in this study, the topologies of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-Pt core-shell nanofiber (CS NF) networks were engineered, and their performances as flexible transparent electrodes were comprehensively evaluated. Three distinct topologies of nanofiber networks were induced using circular, square, and rectangular electrode collectors. A highly uniform nanofiber network was obtained using the square electrode collector, which generated a high density of nanofiber junctions (nodes). Consequently, this nanofiber network exhibited the smallest sheet resistance (Rs) and lowest optical transmittance (T) among the three CS NF networks. In contrast, nanofiber bundles were frequently formed in the randomly aligned CS NF network prepared using the circular electrode collector, reducing the node density. As a result, it simultaneously exhibited a very small Rs and high T, generating the largest percolation figure of merit (Π = 330.5). Under certain strain directions, the CS NF network with the engineered topology exhibited a significantly enhanced mechanical durability. Finally, a flexible piezoelectric pressure sensor with CS NF network electrodes was fabricated and its sensing performance was excellent.
Bioinformatics Analysis of the Cross-talk Between Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Hashimoto's Thyroiditis on the Hub Genes and Key Pathways
Authors: Ding Jiayi , Kong Chunli , Ji tongyao , Chen Xiaoxiao , Chen Weiyue , Shen Lin , Su Yanping , Wu Xulu , Ye Yongjun , Fang Shiji , Chen Minjiang , Ji Jiansong , Wang Dan
Published: December 2022

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease of unknown cause, and there is increasing evidence that Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is closely related to IPF. However, the mechanism of their interaction relationship remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the common genetic features and underlying molecular and immune mechanisms between HT and IPF.
Methods: Microarray data of HT and IPF were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The R software was used to identify the differential genes between two datasets and take the common differential genes (DEGs). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses of common DEGs present in HT and IPF using R software. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of their DEGs was constructed Utilizing the Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database, identified and visualized hub genes by the Cytoscape software. To further investigate the diagnostic value of the hub genes, the receptor operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed utilizing the ‘pROC’ package. Subsequently, ROC analysis in two independent GEO datasets further validates the diagnostic value of these six hub genes. A miRNA-gene interactions network, TF-gene interactions network, and TF-miRNA coregulatory network were constructed by the NetworkAnalyst using hub genes and visualized by the Cytoscape for further analysis. In addition, R software was also applied to analyze immunological infiltration.
Results: A total of 572 common DEGs were identified from the two datasets for subsequent analysis, which were primarily enriched in immune and inflammatory-related pathways. The plug-in ‘cytoHubba’ of the Cytoscape software was utilized to recognize six shared hub genes after validation, including CYBB, CD68, CD8A, CCL2, CCL5, and PTPRC. We predicted the miRNAs related to hub genes, including miR-106b-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-98-5p, let-7g-3p, and potential TFs (SPI1, NFKB1, NFKB2) through the interaction network. In addition, immune cell infiltration analysis revealed a significant infiltration of central memory CD4+ T cells infiltration in both IPF and HT samples.
Conclusions: Bioinformatics studies reveal the common pathogenesis and immunological features between Hashimoto's thyroiditis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. These common pathways and hub genes may serve as molecular biomarkers for diagnosable as well as prognostic assessment, providing new targets and ideas for further mechanistic studies. Additionally, the immune system plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of both diseases. Keywords: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, hub gene, immune process, bioinformatics
Attenuation of PM2.5-induced alveolar epithelial cells and lung injury through regulation of mitochondrial fission and fusion
Authors: Liu Qi , Weng Jiali , Li Chenfei , Feng Yi , Xie Meiqin , Wang Xiaohui , Chang Qing , Li Mengnan , Chung Kian Fan , Adcock Ian M , Huang Yan , Zhang Hai , Li Feng
Published: December 2022

Background:Exposure to particulate matter (PM) with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5μm (PM2.5) is a risk factor for developing pulmonary diseases and the worsening of ongoing disease. Mitochondrial fission and fusion are essential processes underlying mitochondrial homeostasis in health and disease. We examined the role of mitochondrial fission and fusion in PM2.5-induced alveolar epithelial cell damage and lung injury. Key genes in these processs include dystrophin-related protein 1 (DRP1) and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) respectively.
Methods: Alveolar epithelial (A549) cells were treated with PM2.5 (32mg/ml) in the presence and absence of Mdivi-1 (10μM, a DRP1 inhibitor) or BGP-15 (10μM, an OPA1 activator). Results were validated using DRP1-knockdown (KD) and OPA1-overexpression (OE). Mice were injected intraperitoneally with Mdivi-1(20mg/kg), BGP-15 (20 mg/kg) or distilled water (control) one hour before intranasal instillation of PM2.5 (7.8 mg/kg) or distilled water for two consecutive days.
Results:PM2.5 exposure of A549 cells caused oxidative stress, enhanced inflammation, necroptosis, mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction indicated by abnormal mitochondrial morphology, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), reduced mitochondrial respiration and disrupted mitochondrial fission and fusion. Regulating mitochondrial fission and fusion pharmacologically using Mdivi-1 and BGP-15 and genetically using DRP1 KD and OPA1 OE prevented PM2.5-induced celluar damage in A549 cells. Mdivi-1 and BRG-15 attenuated PM2.5-induced acute lung injury in mice.
Conclusion:Increased mitochondrial fission and decreased mitochondrial fusion may underlie PM2.5-induced alveolar epithelial cell damage in vitro and lung injury in vivo. Regulation of mitochondrial fission and fusion may represent a useful future therapeutic strategy.
Automatic trajectory generation for metal surface droplet coloring
Authors: Shen Shiquan , REN KUN , Fu Mingjie , Yang Mingming , Chen Yaoting
Published: December 2022

In this study, an automatic trajectory-generation algorithm is proposed to achieve uniform droplet coloring on the metal surfaces. First, by taking into account key parameters such as contact angle, surface tension, and droplet mass, the coloring technology was analyzed, and the size of a droplet was estimated. Then, the zones of the same color as those in the color reference pattern image were extracted and grouped by pixel searching. Zone erosion and pixel points-sorting algorithms were used to select trajectory points successively. Subsequently, nonuniform rational B-splines (NURBS) curves were used to interpolate the sorted trajectory points and generate G1 continuous curves. Finally, the continuous curves were discretized, and coloring trajectories were generated. Experimental results showed that the proposed algorithm achieved automatic color block extraction, arbitrary trajectory generation, and uniform surface coloring.
MiR-183-5p Promotes the Cell Proliferation of Colorectal Cancer by Targeting QKI-5
Authors: Liu Hui , Mei Yangyang , Qin Minchao , Chen Zhen , Zhang Jing , Hua Feng
Published: December 2022

Background
Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignant tumor in the world and the fourth most common cancer-related death cause. Previous studies have confirmed that miR-183-5P is considered to be a cancer-associated miRNA in several tumor types.
Methods
We analyzed the expression of miR-183-5P in cancer tissues and adjacent tissues in TCGA database. The expression of miR-183-5P and QKI-5 mRNA was measured by RT-qPCR and western blot. CCK-8 were used to indicate the proliferation capacity. BALB/c nude mice were used to simulate in vivo experiments.
Results
In this study, we identified miR-183-5p as a tumor promoter in colorectal cancer. The expression of miR-183-5p was found upregulated in human colorectal cancer tissues while QKI-5 was down-regulated. CCK-8 assay demonstrated that miR-183-5p promoted colorectal cancer cell proliferation. We also found miR183-5P can target QKI-5 and inhibit its expression in CRC cell lines. Restoration of QKI-5 reversed the effects of miR-183-5p in colorectal cancer cells.
Conclusion
Taken together, our results suggest that miR-183-5p might function as a tumor-promoting factor in colorectal cancer and might contribute to its proliferation.
Omentin-1 Genetic Variation (rs2274907) and Serum Level Serve as Prospective Markers for Rheumatoid Arthritis in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Amber , Kulsoom Ume , Ghouri Maham , Rehman Shafique , Fatima Sehrish , Saleem Saima , Zehra Sitwat
Published: December 2022

Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is second leading arthritis worldwide which is characterized by severe joint inflammation. There are several environmental and genetic factors that can influence its pathogenesis. Omentin-1, produced by omental adipose tissues has anti-inflammatory property. The study is designed to evaluate the association between Omentin-1 serum levels and single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs2274907 and rs2274908) with susceptibility to Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Methods and Results
The study involved 792 participants, 396 RA patients and 396 healthy controls. It was found from ELISA that serum Omentin-1 levels were significantly different between cases and controls (p < 0.0001). After DNA extraction Amplification Refractory Mutation System and Allele-specific Polymerase Chain Reaction were performed. Genotype association analysis showed significant distribution in genotype frequency of rs2274907 (χ2 = 72.6, p < 0.001) in RA patients. According to genetic models, co-dominant AT (4.02 times) and dominant (3.95 times) genotypes for rs2274907 could increase the risk of RA. Allele association analysis suggested that the patients with the T allele conferred higher risk (1.73 times, p < 0.0001) for development of RA. There was no association found for rs2274908 variations. Multi-locus analysis between the targeted polymorphisms showed that TG haplotype was involved in progression of RA (OR = 1.79, p < 0.0001) while AG haplotype have a protective effect towards the disease (OR = 0.44, p < 0.0001). These haplotypes can be inherited with 90% linkage disequilibrium.
Conclusions
It is evaluated from the results that the genetic variant of Omentin-1 polymorphism (A/T rs2274907) may act as possible molecular and genetic targets for early diagnosis of RA and help to develop better therapeutic protocols.
Radiomics features recommending surgical intervention among persistent subsolid lung nodules during health check-ups: A retrospective monocentric analysis
Authors: Yoshiyasu Nobuyuki , Kojima Fumitsugu , Hayashi Kuniyoshi , Yamada Daisuke , Bando Toru
Published: December 2022

Background
Persistent subsolid nodules requiring follow-up are often detected during lung cancer screening; however, changes in their invasiveness can be overlooked owing to slow growth. The purpose of this exploratory study was to develop a method to automatically identify invasive tumors during multiple health check-ups.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent screening using low-dose computed tomography (CT) between 2014 and 2019. Patients with lung adenocarcinomas manifesting as subsolid nodules resected after 5 years of follow-up were enrolled. The resected tumors were categorized into invasive or less-invasive groups. The annual growth or change rate (Δ) of the nodule voxel histogram on three-dimensional CT (e.g., tumor volume [cm3], solid volume percentage [%], mean CT value [HU], variance, kurtosis, skewness, and entropy) was assessed using radiomics. Multivariate regression modeling was employed to design a discriminant model.
Results
Forty-seven tumors (282 detectable lesions over 5 years) were included (23 and 24 in the invasive and less-invasive groups, respectively). The median tumor volumes at the initial screening were 130 and 106 mm3 in the less-invasive and invasive groups, respectively; the difference was not significant (P = 0.489). In the multivariate regression analysis to identify the invasive group, Δskewness was an independent predictor (adjusted odds ratio, 0.021; P = 0.043). When combined with Δvariance (odds ratio, 1.630; P = 0.037), the assessment method had high accuracy for detecting invasive lesions (true-positive rate, 88%; false-positive rate, 80%).
Conclusions
During check-ups, close investigation by surgery for subsolid nodules can be suggested with the application of radiomics, particularly focusing on skewness.
Trial registration:
Not applicable.
Lean Adipose Tissue Macrophage Derived Exosome Confers Immunoregulation to Improve Wound Healing in Diabetes
Authors: Xia Wenzheng , Liu Yunhan , Jiang Xingyu , Li Minxiong , zheng Shengwu , Hou Meng , Zan Tao
Published: December 2022

Chronic non-healing wounds, an important complication of diabetes, are associated with increased mortality in patients afflicted with this disease. Excessive accumulation of M1 macrophages in diabetic wounds promotes inflammation and results in dysregulated tissue repair. Adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) derived from healthy lean donors have the abilities to improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, and modulate inflammation. MiRNAs (miRs), which can be packaged into exosomes (Exos) and secreted from cells, serve as essential regulators of macrophage polarization. Here, we reveal that adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) isolated from lean mice secrete miR-containing Exos, which modulate macrophage polarization and promote rapid diabetic wound healing when administered to diabetes-prone db/db mice. MiRs sequence of tissue samples from wounds treated with Exos secreted by lean ATMs (ATM-Exos) revealed that miR-222-3p was upregulated. Further analyses showed that inhibition of miR-222-3p using miR inhibitor impaired the macrophage-reprogramming effect of lean ATM-Exos. In the excisional skin wound mouse model, locally inhibiting miR-222-3p disrupted healing dynamics and failed to modulate macrophage polarization. Mechanistic studies revealed a link between miR-222-3p; Bcl2l11/Bim, an inflammatory response effector; macrophage polarization; and diabetic wound healing. In summary, lean ATM-Exos act as positive regulators of macrophage polarization by regulating miR levels in wounds and accelerating wound healing and thus have important implications for wound management in diabetes.
Effects of boron on fat synthesis in porcine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Yang Yanan , Ren Man
Published: December 2022

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the effect of boron on porcine mammary epithelial cell (PMEC) survival, cell cycle and milk fat synthesis. PMECs from boron-treated groups were exposed to 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.8, 1, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mmol/L boric acid concentrations. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess cell survival and the cell cycle, respectively. Triacylglycerol (TAG) levels in PMECs and culture medium were determined by a Triacylglycerol kit while PMEC lipid droplet aggregation was investigated via Oil Red Staining. Milk fat synthesis-associated mRNA levels were determined by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR while its protein expressions were determined by Western blot. Low (0.2, 0.3, 0.4 mmol/L) and high (>10 mmol/L) boron concentrations significantly promoted and inhibited cell viabilities, respectively. Boron (0.3 mmol/L) markedly elevated the abundance of G2/M phase cells. Ten mmol/L boron significantly increased the abundances of G0/G1 and S phase cells, but markedly suppressed G2/M phase cell abundance. At 0.3 mmol/L, boron significantly enhanced ERK phosphorylation while at 0.4, 0.8, 1, and 10 mmol/L, it markedly decreased lipid droplet diameters. Boron (10 mmol/L) significantly suppressed ACACA and SREBP1 protein expressions. The FASN protein levels were markedly suppressed by 0.4, 0.8, 1 and 10 mmol/L boron. Both 1 and 10 mmol/L markedly decreased FASN and SREBP1 mRNA expressions. Ten mmol/L boron significantly decreased PPARα mRNA levels. Low concentrations of boron promoted cell viability, while high concentrations inhibited PMEC viabilities and reduced lipid droplet diameters, which shows the implications of boron in pregnancy and lactation.
Particulate Matter 10 -induced airway inflammation and fibrosis can be regulated by chitinase-1 suppression
Authors: Choi Yong Jun , Han Heejae , Lee Jaeuk , Kim Chi Young , Byun Min Kwang , Cho Jae Hwa , Park Hye Jung
Published: December 2022

Background
Particulate matter10 (PM10) can induce airway inflammation and fibrosis. Chitinase-1 is recently known to have key roles in inflammation and fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the effects of chitinase-1 inhibitor in PM10-treated murine models.
Methods
In female BALB/c mice, PM10 was intranasally administered four times over 2 weeks, and ovalbumin (OVA) was intraperitoneally injected and then intranasally administered. Chitinase-1 inhibitor (CPX) 6 times over 3 weeks or dexamethasone 3 times in last week were treated intraperitoneally. After 2 days from the last challenges, mice were sacrificed. Full RNA sequencing using lung homogenates was conducted to evaluate signaling pathway.
Results
PM10 and/or OVA-induced airway inflammation and fibrosis murine models were well established. CPX and dexamethasone ameliorated PM10 or PM10/OVA-induced airway hyper-responsiveness, airway inflammation, and fibrosis. CPX and dexamethasone also reduced levels of various inflammatory markers including chitinase-1 in lung homogenates. PM10 and OVA also induced extreme changes of mRNA expression. CPX and dexamethasone decreased levels of mRNA expression especially associated with inflammation and immune regulation. They also significantly regulated asthma and asthma related pathway including JACK-STAT signaling pathway.
Conclusions
Chitinase-1 suppression by CPX can regulate PM10-induced and aggravated airway inflammation and fibrosis via various signaling pathway.
Feasibility Study on Mega-Watt level Fast charging system for shore power supply using wireless power transfer technology
Authors: Aditya Kunwar , Pradhan Sushan , Munsi Avishek
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates the challenges associated with building MW level wireless chargers using inductive power transfer (IPT) technology for marine energy storage systems. Currently, the highest power capacity for the IPT system is 1 MW by Korea RailRoad Institute for high in-motion charging of speed trains. However, for stationary charging applications, maximum power capacity implemented using IPT is only up to 200 kW accomplished by Bombardier PRIMOVE for bus charging. For marine application, charging can take place at quay, therefore only static charging is possible. In this paper, the specifications of MF Ampere ferry have been used for the feasibility study. Through analytical calculations and PSIM Simulation, it was established that several low powers (100 kW IPT systems) need to be paralleled for 1 MW power transfer. Building a single unit of 1 MW is not feasible due to involved voltage and current stress across the components and limited space available onboard as well as onshore. 100 kW power level can be implemented despite of involved misalignments. However, if primary is somehow kept stationary with respect to secondary, for example using vacuum pad mooring technology developed by Wärtsilä and Cavotec, then a single unit of 200 kW could be implemented without any forced cooling. 10 units of 100 kW (without any mechanical mooring assistance) or 5 units of 200 kW (with mechanical mooring assistance) are the two proposed solutions for implementing a fast charger for 1 MW level.
Targeting homologous recombination repair in BCR/ABL1-positive cells using PARP inhibitor
Authors: Hiroki Haruka , Ishii Yuko , Piao Jinhua , Namikawa Yui , Masutani Mitsuko , Honda Hiroaki , Akahane Koushi , Inukai Takeshi , Morio Tomohiro , Takagi Masatoshi
Published: December 2022

BCR/ABL1 causes dysregulated cell proliferation and is responsible for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph1-ALL). In addition to the deregulatory effects of its kinase activity on cell proliferation, BCR/ABL1 induces genomic instability by downregulating BRCA1. PARP inhibitors (PARPi) effectively induce cell death in BRCA-defective cells. Therefore, PARPi are expected to inhibit the growth of CML and Ph1-ALL cells with downregulated BRCA1 expression. Inhibition of BCR/ABL1-mediated leukemogenesis by PARP inhibition was tested in two in vivo models: wild-type mice that had undergone hematopoietic cell transplantation with BCR/ABL1-transduced cells, and a genetic model constructed by crossing Parp1 knockout mice with BCR/ABL1 transgenic mice. Here, we demonstrate that a PARPi, olaparib, attenuates BCR/ABL1-mediated leukemogenesis. Inhibition of leukemogenesis in BCR/ABL1-positive cells was the result of a combination of the direct cytotoxic effects of olaparib and reduced maintenance of BCR/ABL1-positive stem cells. Interferon was used as a first-line therapy for CML.Activation of the cGAS/STING pathway was also observed upon PARP inhibition. Because tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) monotherapy does not completely eradicate leukemic cells in all patients, PARPi could be combined with TKIs to induce CML cell death more effectively.
Novel strategies for the preparation of nano-silver pectin sponge composite and its antibacterial properties
Authors: Zhao Zhi-yuan , Li Pei-jun , Cao Xing-ye , Xie Run-sheng , Li Hai-yun
Published: December 2022

Biodegradable sponges that can be used in the medical field are currently attracting a lot of attention, but the development of safe materials with high antimicrobial activity is still a major challenge. Doping with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can effectively solve this problem. In this study, pectin sponges (PE-S) and nano-silver pectin sponges (PE-S/Ag) were synthesized in situ by freeze-drying method. The prepared sponge samples were characterized by various tools. UV-vis spectroscopy showed the in situ synthesis of AgNPs; FT-IR spectroscopy and XPS investigated the functional group changes in the sponge samples; SEM images confirmed the homogeneous distribution of AgNPs in the PE-S/Ag sponge. The physical and chemical properties of PE-S/Ag sponges were higher than PE-S sponges. The water absorption of PE-S/Ag and PE-S sponges was 2602.04% and 1562.20% respectively; the porosity was 83.36% and 66.61%, respectively. The results of the antibacterial test showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PE-S/Ag sponge was 42 and 83 µg/mL for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. The results of the cytotoxicity and coagulation assays showed that the two sponge samples prepared were non-toxic to cells and had a good coagulation effect. Silver ion (Ag+) release studies showed the sustainability of Ag+ release from PE-S/Ag sponges. These preliminary data showed that PE-S/Ag sponges have excellent performance to meet the antimicrobial needs of a wide range of medical applications.
Corpus callosum organization and its implication to core and comorbid symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Minnigulova Alina , Davydova Elizaveta , Pereverzeva Darya , Sorokin Alexander , Tyushkevich Svetlana , Mamokhina Uliana , Danilina Kamilla , Dragoy Olga , Arutiunian Vardan
Published: December 2022

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by social interaction and communication deficits, repetitive behavior and often by co-occurring conditions such as language and non-verbal IQ development delays. Previous studies reported that those behavioral abnormalities can be associated with corpus callosum organization. However, little is known about the specific differences in white matter structure of the corpus callosum parts in children with ASD and TD peers and their relationships to core and comorbid symptoms of ASD. The aim of the study was to investigate the volumetric and microstructural characteristics of the corpus callosum parts crucially involved in social, language, and non-verbal IQ behavior in primary-school-aged children with ASD and to assess the relationships between these characteristics and behavioral measures.
Method: 38 children (19 with ASD, 19 typically developing (TD)) were scanned using diffusion-weighted MRI and behaviorally assessed. The tractography of the corpus callosum parts were performed using Quantitative Imaging Toolkit software; diffusivity and volumetric measurements were extracted and analyzed.
Results: In the ASD group, fractional anisotropy (FA) was decreased across the supplementary motor area and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, axial diffusivity (AD) was reduced across each of the corpus callosum parts in comparison to the TD group. Importantly, the AD decrease was related to worse language abilities and more severe autistic traits in individuals with ASD.
Conclusions: The microstructure of the corpus callosum parts differs between children with and without ASD. Abnormalities in white matter organization of the corpus callosum parts are associated with core and comorbid symptoms of ASD.
Cardiovascular Toxicities after Anthracycline and VEGF-Targeted Therapies in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors
Authors: Wong-Siegel Jeannette R. , Hayashi Robert J. , Foraker Randi , Mitchell Joshua D.
Published: December 2022

Background
Cancer survival rates have been steadily improving in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population, but survivors are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The cardiotoxic effects of anthracycline therapy have been well studied. However, the cardiovascular toxicity associated with newer therapies, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors, is less well understood.
Objective
This retrospective study of AYA cancer survivors sought to gain insight into their burden of cardiovascular toxicities (CT) following anthracycline and/or VEGF inhibitor therapy.
Methods
Data were extracted from electronic medical records over a fourteen-year period at a single institution. We utilized Cox proportional hazards regression modeling to examine risk factors for CT within each treatment group. Cumulative incidence was calculated with death as a competing risk.
Results
Of the 1,165 AYA cancer survivors examined, 32%, 22%, and 34% of patients treated with anthracycline, VEGF inhibitor, or both, developed CT. Hypertension was the most common outcome reported. Males were at increased risk for CT following anthracycline therapy (HR: 1.34, 95% CI 1.04–1.73). The cumulative incidence of CT was highest in patients who received both anthracycline and VEGF inhibitor (50% at ten years of follow up).
Conclusions
CT was common among AYA cancer survivors who received anthracycline and/or VEGF inhibitor therapy. Male sex was an independent risk factor for CT following anthracycline treatment. Further screening and surveillance are warranted to continue understanding the burden of CVD following VEGF inhibitor therapy.
Differences in perceived threat and trauma in children during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Kohlboeck Gabriele , Wenter Anna , Sevecke Kathrin , Exenberger Silvia
Published: December 2022

Background
The past two years of the COVID-19 pandemic were stressful to most children and adolescents, and some of the children may have experienced a high level of stress and trauma. To date, no study has examined differences in self-reported stress and trauma levels due to COVID-19 in children. This study aimed to assess the differences between perceived threat, exposure and trauma symptoms in children aged 7–13 years. In addition, we explored whether parent-reported factors could predict a higher risk of COVID-19 vulnerability in their children.
Method
Cross-sectional data from 752 children were assessed with regard to COVID-19 threat and exposure and trauma symptoms using the self- and parent-reported CATS Trauma questionnaire. We used exploratory data analysis methods (factor analysis of mixed data and hierarchical clustering) to identify subgroups (i.e. clusters) of children sharing similar characteristics in the data set. Linear regression modelling was applied to determine the likelihood of higher threat and vulnerability in children with parent-reported COVID-19 threat, exposure, CATS trauma symptoms and behaviour using the child behaviour checklist (CBCL).
Results
We identified a high-risk group of children reporting clinically relevant trauma symptoms and COVID-19 related fears. Parents’ reports of trauma could identify these.
Conclusions
In about 25% of children clinical relevant trauma symptoms and threat are present. It is especially important to offer adequate support to ease the trauma and prevent development into further psychopathology.
Effects of paraprobiotic as replacements for antibiotic on performance, immunity, gut health and carcass characteristics in broiler chickens
Authors: Mukesh N. T , Biswas Avishek , Deo Chandra , Jayanti L. A. , Monika M. , Tiwari Ashok Kumar
Published: December 2022

This study sought to determine the effects of dietary paraprobiotic (PPB) on broiler chicken performance, immunity, gut health, and carcass traits. 240 day-old CARIBRO Vishal commercial broiler chicks of identical body weight randomly divided into six treatment groups, each with five replicates and eight chicks in each replicate. Six dietary treatments were preapared: T1 = (control diet), T2 = T1 + 0.02 % (w/v) chlortetracycline (CTC), T3 = T1 + 0.2% (w/v) PPB, T4 = T1 + 0.4% (w/v) PPB, T5 = T1 + 0.6 % (w/v) PPB and T6 = T1 + 0.8 % (w/v) PPB, respectively. Body weight gain (BWG) significantly (P≤0.05) increased in the T5 (0.6 % PPB) and T6 (0.8% PPB) group. At the same time the feed intake significantly (P≤0.05) decreased and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly (P≤0.05) improved in T5 and T6 group. There was a significant (P≤0.05) increase in cell-mediated immunity and haem-agglutination titre (HA titre) in the 0.6% and 0.8% PPB supplemented groups compare to the control group (T1). The percentage of carcass traits and organ weights did not significantly differ between the PPB-supplemented and control groups, but the percentage of live weight in cut up parts showed a significant improvement (P≤0.05) in the PPB-supplemented group. At 42 days, villus height, width, and crypt depth all significantly (P0.05) increased in the groups supplemented with 0.6 and 0.8% para-probiotics (T5 and T6). The results show that para-probiotics can be added to broiler diets at a rate of 0.6% (w/v) to enhance performance, immunity, gut health, and breast yield. The para-probiotic may therefore be a useful substitution for antibiotic growth promoters in the diet of chickens.
Sobolev’s type optimal topology in the problem of exact observability for Hilbert space dynamical systems connected with Riesz basis of divided differences
Authors: Woźniak Jarosław , Firkowski Mateusz
Published: December 2022

This paper considers the problem of exact observability of a general class of distributed parameter systems in Hilbert spaces, connected to Riesz basis properties of some families of exponential functions and the divided differences of those functions. Under some assumptions on asymptotic spectral analysis of the differential operator of the system, the conditions of exact observability are stated in the form of exact observable spaces being the direct sum of some specific Sobolev spaces. The main result consists of proving the optimality of these subspaces of observable states. The result was based on advanced non-harmonic analysis approach connected to the unusual fact that time-space Riesz basis does not consist only of exponential functions but also contains divided differences of these functions.
Concerned friends of intimate partner violence survivors: Results from the myPlan randomized controlled trial on college campuses
Authors: Bloom Tina L. , Perrin Nancy , Brown Megan Lindsay , Campbell Jacquelyn , Clough Amber , Grace Karen Trister , Laughon Kathryn , Messing Jill , Eden Karen B. , Turner Rachael , Glass Nancy
Published: December 2022

Background: Nearly half of intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors experience their first abusive relationship at college age (18-24 years), and most often these young people disclose the violence to friends. Existing "bystander" interventions targeting college campuses focus on training peers to safely intervene and have been effective in sexual assault prevention; similar interventions have rarely been tested for IPV intervention. Therefore, we evaluated the effectiveness of an interactive, personalized safety decision and planning tool, myPlan app, on decisional conflict, attitudes toward IPV, confidence in intervening, and supportive safety behaviors with concerned friends of abused college women.
Methods: We recruited college students (age 18-24, N=293) of any gender who indicated they had a female-identified friend who had recently experienced IPV (“concerned friends”) from 41 Oregon and Maryland colleges/universities. Participants were randomized to myPlan (n=147) or control (usual web-based resources; n=146) and outcomes (e.g., decisional conflict, confidence to intervene, safety/support behaviors, attitudes toward IPV) were measured at baseline and 12-months later.
Results: Concerned friends described the person being abused as a close/best friend (79.1%). Most (89.2%) reported concern that their friend would be seriously hurt by her abusive partner, with 22.7% reporting extreme concern. Intervention participants had a greater reduction in decisional conflict related to clarity in their own values immediately after their first use of myPlan. At 12-month follow-up, groups did not differ significantly in terms of percentage of safety/support strategies used, whether strategies were helpful, or attitudes toward IPV. Both groups reported increased confidence to intervene, but the intervention group had a significantly greater increase in confidence to talk with someone about concerns in their own relationships than the control group.
Conclusions: A technology-based intervention, myPlan, was effective in reducing decisional conflict and clarifying values about supporting a friend in an unsafe relationship. Information on IPV and related safety strategies delivered through the myPlan app or usual web-based resources both increased confidence to intervene with a friend. College students in the myPlan group were more likely to talk with someone about concerns about their own relationship, demonstrating the potential of myPlan as a tool for IPV prevention or early intervention. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT02236663
Impact of Social Capital on Chinese Migrant Workers' Poverty during COVID-19: The Mediation of Social Protection
Authors: Chen Chen , Gan Christopher
Published: December 2022

Attention to and investigation of migrant workers’ poverty level in the COVID-19 environment are vital for understanding their living conditions. It is also critical to explore the effect of social capital and protection on migrant workers’ poverty alleviation in the post-COVID era. Using an online survey, this study examines the relationship between migrant workers’ social capital and poverty alleviation at the aggregate and dimensional levels from the multidimensional poverty perspective in the COVID-19 environment. We find that, in the COVID-19 environment, migrant workers’ social capital in the cities is notable for mitigating their poverty, and accessible social protection can weaken this relationship at the aggregate level. At the dimensional level, the result shows that migrant workers’ poverty alleviation depends on their social network and reciprocal connections in the cities, not social trust. However, migrant workers’ accessible social protections can mediate the relationship between the three dimensions of social capital and poverty. Our findings provide new evidence for the good and dark sides of the social capital and poverty alleviation relationship. Our result also shows that social protection can mitigate the influence of unequal social capital on poverty to achieve a more balanced result. The findings suggest that governments should design more inclusive but targeted social protection policies for migrant workers to decrease the effect of unequal social capital and so increase the impact on poverty alleviation.
JEL classification: D10; I32; J61
Insecticidal plant oil’s toxicity activities on the larval and adult stages of a major malaria vector (Anopheles gambiae Giles 1920)
Authors: Adelaja Olukayode James , Oduola Adedayo Olatubosun , Ande Adeolu Taiwo , Abiodun Oyindamola Olajumoke , Adelaja Abisayo Ruth
Published: December 2022

Despite increasing reports and concerns about resistance development to public-health insecticides in malaria vectors, significant steps have been put into the quest for novel strategies to disrupt the disease transmission cycle by targeting insect vectors hence sustaining vector management. This study evaluates the toxicity potential of oils of insecticidal plants shortlisted in an ethnobotanical survey on the larvae and adult stages of Anopheles gambiae. Oils from leaves of Hyptis suaveolens, Ocimum gratissimum, Nicotiana tabacum, Ageratum conyzoides and fruit-peel of Citrus sinensis were extracted by steam-distillation using a Clevenger apparatus. Larvae and female adults of deltamethrin-susceptible Anopheles gambiae were gotten from an already established colony in the Entomological Research Laboratory, University of Ilorin. Twenty-five third instar stage larvae were used for larvicidal assays while twenty 2-5 days old adults were used for the adulticidal assays in five replicates. A. gambiae exposed to H. suaveolens and C. sinensis demonstrated significantly higher larval toxicity (94.7-100%) after 24 hours. At 48 hours, the mortality induced by the oils of the four plants peaked at 100%. N. tabacum (0.50 mg/ml) induced the highest percentage of adult mortality (100%) on A. gambiae which was compared favourably with the positive control Deltamethrin (0.05%). The lowest KdT50 was observed with 0.25 mg/ml of N. tabacum (20.3 minutes) while the lowest KdT95 was observed with 0.10mg/ml of A. conyzoides (35.97 mins) against adult A. gambiae. The significant larval and adult mortality rates, lower lethal concentration and knockdown times demonstrated by the evaluated plant oils showed promising outcomes that can be further developed for vector control management.
Quantification of parasite clearance in Plasmodium knowlesi infections
Authors: Rathnam Jeyamalar T Thurai , Grigg Matthew J , Dini Saber , William Timothy , Sakam Sitti Saimah binti , Cooper Daniel J , Rajahram Giri S , Barber Bridget E , Anstey Nicholas M , Haghiri Ali , Rajasekhar Megha , Simpson Julie A
Published: December 2022

Background
The incidence of zoonotic Plasmodium knowlesi infections in humans is rising in Southeast Asia, leading to clinical studies to monitor the efficacy of antimalarial treatments for knowlesi malaria. One of the key outcomes of antimalarial drug efficacy is parasite clearance. For P. falciparum, parasite clearance is typically estimated using a two-stage method, that involves estimating parasite clearance for individual patients followed by pooling of individual estimates to derive population estimates. An alternative approach is Bayesian hierarchical modelling which simultaneously analyses all parasite-time patient profiles to determine parasite clearance. This study compared these methods for estimating parasite clearance in P. knowlesi treatment efficacy studies, with typically fewer parasite measurements per patient due to high susceptibility to antimalarials.
Methods
Using parasite clearance data from 714 patients with knowlesi malaria and enrolled in three trials, we compared the Worldwide Antimalarial Resistance Network (WWARN) Parasite Clearance Estimator (PCE) standard two-stage approach and Bayesian hierarchical modelling. Both methods estimate the parasite clearance rate from a model that incorporates a lag phase, slope, and tail phase for the parasitaemia profiles.
Results
The standard two-stage approach successfully estimated the parasite clearance rate for 678 patients, with 36 (5%) patients excluded due to an insufficient number of available parasitaemia measurements. The Bayesian hierarchical estimation method was applied to the parasitaemia data of all 714 patients. Overall, the Bayesian method estimated a faster population mean parasite clearance (0.36/hour, 95% credible interval [0.1759, 0.6524]) compared to the standard two-stage method (0.26/hour, 95% confidence interval [0.1093, 0.4596]), with better model fits (compared visually). The artemisinin-based combination therapies were more effective in treating P. knowlesi than chloroquine, as determined by both methods, with a mean estimated parasite clearance half-life of 2.5 and 3.6 hours respectively using the standard two-stage method, and 1.8 and 2.9 hours using the Bayesian method.
Conclusion
For clinical studies of P. knowlesi with frequent parasite measurements, we recommend the standard two-stage approach (WWARN’s PCE) as this method is straightforward to implement. For studies with fewer parasite measurements per patient, the Bayesian approach should be considered. Regardless of method used, artemisinin combination therapies are more efficacious than chloroquine.
Mg modified nanobiochar from spent coffee grounds: Evaluation of the phosphate removal efficiency and its application as a phosphorous release fertilizer
Authors: Sisay Gemeda Begna , Mekonnen Menbere Leul
Published: December 2022

Phosphate enrichment of the aquatic system often impacts their aesthetic and ecological values. Hence, phosphate recovery is essential to maintain the quality of aquatic systems and ensure sustainable use of phosphorous. Herein, Mg-modified nanobiochar from spent coffee grounds (Mg/NBC) is proposed as an efficient adsorbent for phosphate recovery, and as a phosphorous-release fertilizer. The nanobiochar was obtained by acid digestion of the biochar resulting from pyrolysis. The effect of parameters viz pH, contact time, the dose of adsorbent, and initial concentration on the adsorption was investigated in batch experiments. Results indicated that phosphate adsorption on Mg/NBC is favored in acidic conditions with maximum adsorption (95%) at pH 1. Mg/NBC showed a 12.84% improvement in the adsorption efficiency than the pristine nanobiochar. Characterizations of the adsorbent before and after adsorption suggested that phosphate is involved in both physisorption and chemisorption. Adsorption of phosphate followed pseudo-second-order kinetics with an equilibrium constant (K2) of 0.029 g/mg.min. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm model is better fitted to the equilibrium data with a maximum adsorption capacity of 100 mg/g suggesting uniform monolayer adsorption. Results of the pot test showed that phosphate-laden Mg/NBC improved the growth of garlic and beans by 10 and 5% respectively. The result highlights the utility of phosphate-laden Mg/NBC as a phosphorous-release fertilizer and illustrates a circular economy approach for spent coffee grounds.
Existence and L^2 decay estimate of global strong solution for 2-D incompressible Navier-Stokes equations with logarithmic damping
Authors: Zhou Jinhui , Huo Wenwen
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we consider the following Cauchy problem for the 2-D incompressible Navier-Stokes equations with logarithmic damping (1.1). We prove that the existence and uniqueness of global strong solution for the Cauchy problem by applying the classical energy estimates methods. Moreover, we show the the large time behavior of strong solution to the Cauchy problem by means of Fourier splitting method.
Development and validation of sensitive BCR::ABL1 fusion gene quantitation using next-generation sequencing
Authors: Lee Hyeon Ah , Seo Jieun , Shin Saeam , Lee Seung-Tae , Choi Jong Rak
Published: December 2022

Background
BCR::ABL1 fusion has significant prognostic value and is screened for chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) disease monitoring as a part of routine molecular testing. To overcome the limitations of the current standard real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR), we designed and validated a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based assay to quantify BCR::ABL1 and ABL1 transcript copy numbers.
Methods
After PCR amplification of the target sequence, deep sequencing was performed using an Illumina Nextseq 550Dx sequencer and in-house–designed bioinformatics pipeline. The Next-generation Quantitative sequencing (NQ-seq) assay was validated for its analytical performance, including precision, linearity, and limit of detection, using serially diluted control materials. A comparison with conventional RQ-PCR was performed with 145 clinical samples from 77 patients.
Results
The limit of detection of the NQ-seq was the molecular response (MR) 5.6 [BCR::ABL1 0.00028% international scale (IS)]. The NQ-seq exhibited excellent precision and linear range from MR 2.0 to 5.0. The IS value from the NQ-seq was highly correlated with conventional RQ-PCR.
Conclusions
We conclude that the NQ-seq is an effective tool for monitoring BCR::ABL1 transcripts in CML patients with high sensitivity and reliability. Prospective assessment of the unselected large series is required to validate the clinical impact of this NGS-based monitoring strategy.
Circulating Metabolites as Potential Biomarkers for the Early Detection and Prognosis Surveillance of Gastric and Colon Cancers
Authors: Song Guodong , Wang Li , Tang Junlong , Li Haohui , Pang Shuyu , Li Yan , Liu Li , Hu Junyuan
Published: December 2022

Background and aims
Two of the most lethal gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, gastric cancer (GC) and colon cancer (CC), are ranked in the top five cancers that cause deaths worldwide. Most GI cancer deaths can be reduced by earlier detection and more appropriate medical treatment. Unlike the current “gold standard” techniques, non-invasive and highly sensitive screening tests are required for GI cancer diagnosis. Here, we aimed to discriminate GI cancers from non-cancers and even allow the classification of cancer subtypes by assessing the alterations in metabolites for a specific cancer type.
Methods
Plasma samples from 37 gastric cancer (GC), 17 colon cancer (CC), and 27 non-cancer (NC) patients were analyzed using three MS-based platforms. Univariate, multivariate, and clustering analyses were used for selecting significant features. ROC curve analysis was based on a series of different binary classifications as well as the true-positive rate (sensitivity) and the false-positive rate (1-specificity).
Results
Gastric cancer (GC) and colon cancer (CC) exhibited different degrees of cellular metabolism reprogramming. The discriminated metabolites between cancer and non-cancer groups distinguished GI cancer and cancer types. We also applied this test to before- and after-surgery samples, wherein surgical resection significantly altered the blood-metabolic patterns.
Conclusion
The oncogenic reprogramming of metabolism is a hallmark of cancer that results in the unique metabolic profile of cancer cells. The use of these blood-based circulating metabolites for the earlier diagnosis and prognosis of GI cancer is a promising area of research.