bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation protocol changes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross- sectional survey of SOS-KANTO 2017 study
Authors: Kitamura Nobuya , Tagami Takashi , Takeda Munekazu , Shinozaki Koichiro
Published: July 2023

The international guidelines recommend that rescuers balance the urgent needs of care for COVID-19 patients and the protection of healthcare providers from cross-infections. However, little is known about a change in CPR protocol during the Pandemic. The aim of our study is to survey the protocol change and know whether any institution implemented adversely affecting changes in resuscitation. This was a cross-sectional survey study investigating changes in CPR protocol between the pre- COVID-19 pandemic and pandemic period. Online questionnaires were distributed to 41 institutions that participated in the SOS-KANTO 2017 study in January 2021. The survey covered the following three topics: 1) differences in each institution’s cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) protocol; 2) timing of initiation of the new CPR protocol; and 3) airway and infection management protocol of emergency medical services (EMS) and each institution. Of the institutions, 90% implemented protocol changes by April 2020 and 100% by October 2020. However, we found variations in these changes, particularly those regarding airway management; a total of 75% of the institutions answered that they did not modify or change their methods of airway management. Around of the institutions might not have implemented enough strategies to reduce exposure to the COVID-19 virus as recommended by the guidelines as of January 2021. Overall, based on the results of our survey, resuscitation protocols for all participating institutions have been revised, but few has changed protocols to detrimental to OHCA. On the other hand, emergency services showed variation in airway management, with 75% not modifying or changing airway managements.
Effect and potential mechanism of oncometabolite succinate promotes distant metastasis of colorectal cancer by activating STAT3
Authors: Yu Jiangnan , Yang Hong , Zhang Lin , Ran Suye , Shi Qing , Peng Pailan , Liu Qi , Song Lingyu
Published: July 2023

To investigate the effect of Oncometabolite succinate on colorectal cancer migration and invasion and to initially explore the underlying mechanism.Succinate acid detection kit detected the succinate content in tissues. The growth of colorectal cancer cells was measured by cck-8 assay, wound-healing migration assay and transwell migration and invasion assays, and then explored the level of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and STAT3/ p-STAT3 expression by western blot analysis and quantitative real-time PCR for mRNA expression. We found that succinate levels were significantly higher in carcinoma tissues than precancerous tissues. After succinate treatment, the colorectal cancer cell lines SW480 and HCT116 had enhanced migration and invasion, the expression of biomarkers of EMT was promoted, and significantly increased phosphorylation of STAT3. In vivo experiments also showed that succinate can increase p-STAT3 expression, promote the EMT process, and promote the distant metastasis of colorectal cancer in mice.Succinate promotes EMT through the activation of the transcription factor STAT3, thus promoting the migration and invasion of colorectal cancer.
The learning curve for laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy by a proficient laparoscopic surgeon: A retrospective study at a single center
Authors: Wang Heng , Gao Xin , Liu Meng , Kong Xiaohan , Sun HongRui , Niu Zheyu , Zhu Huaqiang , Lu Jun , Zhou， Xu , Ma Chaoqun
Published: July 2023

Background
To explore the learning curve of single center laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy(LPD) and evaluate the safety and efficacy of the operation at different stages.
Method
The clinical data of 120 cases of laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy performed by the same surgeon from June 2018 to June 2022 were reviewed and analyzed. The cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis and the best fitting curve were used to draw the learning curve for the operation time and intraoperative blood loss, respectively. The two were mutually verified, and the number of surgeries needed to accumulate across the learning curve was analyzed. The clinical data, like operation time, intraoperative blood loss, length of stay, complications and other indicators were compared at different stages of the learning curve.
Result
The maximum turning point of the fitting curve was found in 35 cases by the cumulative sum method of operation time, after which the learning curve could be considered to have passed. The fitting curve obtained by the cumulative sum method of intraoperative blood loss was stable in 30 cases and proficient in 60 cases, which was basically consistent with the fitting curve of operation time. Taking 35 cases as the boundary, the learning curve is divided into learning improvement stage and mastering stage. There was no statistical significance in the general data of the two stage patients (P > 0.05).Hospitalization days decreased from 19 days to 15 days (P < 0.05);Pancreatic fistula decreased from 20.0% of grade B and 8.6% of grade C to 7.1% of grade B and 3.5% of grade C (P < 0.05), and the operative time decreased from (376.9 ± 48.2) minutes to (294.4 ± 18.7) minutes (P < 0.05).Intraoperative blood loss decreased from 375ml to 241ml(P < 0.05).
Conclusion
35 patients with LPD can reach the proficiency stage and the perioperative indexes can be improved.
Both/And: Mixed methods analysis of network composition, communication patterns, and socio-economic support within social networks of transgender women in Lima, Peru
Authors: Temelkovska Tijana , Moriarty Kathleen , Huerta Leyla , Perez-Brumer Amaya G. , Segura Eddy R. , Passaro Ryan Colby , Lake Jordan E. , Clark Jesse L. , Blair Cheríe S.
Published: July 2023

Introduction
Social networks contribute to normative reinforcement of HIV prevention strategies, knowledge sharing, and social capital, but little research has characterized the social networks of transgender women (TW) in Latin America. We conducted a mixed methods analysis of three network clusters of TW in Lima, Peru, to evaluate network composition, types of support exchanged, and patterns of communication.
Methods
We recruited TW residing in or affiliated with three “casas trans” (houses shared among TW) in Lima between April-May 2018. Eligible participants were 18 or older, self-reported HIV-negative, and reported recent intercourse with a cis-male partner. Participants completed demographic questionnaires, social network interviews, and semi-structured interviews to assess egocentric network structures, support exchanged, and communication patterns. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using Stata v14.1 and Atlas.ti, respectively.
Results
Of 20 TW, median age was 26 years and 100% reported involvement in commercial sex work. Respondents identified 161 individuals they interacted with in the past month (alters), of whom 33% were TW and 52% family members. 70% of respondents reported receiving emotional support from family, while 30% received financial support and instrumental support from family. Of the 13 (65%) respondents who nominated someone as a source of HIV prevention support (HPS), the majority (69%) nominated other TW. In a GEE regression analysis adjusted for respondent education and region of birth, being a family member was associated with lower likelihood of providing financial support (aOR 0.21, CI 0.08–0.54), instrumental support (aOR 0.16, CI 0.06–0.39), and HPS (aOR 0.18, CI 0.05–0.64). In qualitative interviews, most respondents identified a cis-female family member as their most trusted and closest network member, but other TW were more often considered sources of day-to-day support, including HPS.
Conclusion
TW have diverse social networks where other TW are key sources of knowledge sharing and support, and family members may also represent important and influential components. Within these complex networks, TW may selectively solicit and provide support from different network alters according to specific contexts and needs. HIV prevention messaging could consider incorporating network-based interventions with TW community input and outreach efforts for supportive family members.
Flexible THV-based nanocomposites filled with GNPs/MWCNTs for advanced applications in EMI shielding and thermal management.
Authors: Łapińska Anna , Grochowska Natalia , Filak Karolina , Dużyńska Anna , Polański Marek , Wyrębska Iwona , Jóźwik Paweł , Gołofit Tomasz , Dydek Kamil , Michalski Przemysław P. , Plichta Andrzej
Published: July 2023

Contemporary applications require protection against overheating and electromagnetic radiation interference, preferably with reduced mass and enhanced basic performance, such as flammability or chemical or UV resistance. Materials exhibiting all these functions can be designed, but there is often not just one but several different materials with advanced processing requirements; therefore, a simple manufacturing method providing percolation path formation involving powder mixing and hot pressing of terpolymer comprising tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride monomeric units (THV)-based nanocomposites is presented here. Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as fillers to improve the basic matrix properties. The addition of the carbon fillers yielded electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness SETOT = 23 dB for the GNP filler, SETOT = 17 dB for the MWCNT/GNP filler, and SETOT = 7.4 dB for the one wt% MWCNT filler (for a 1 mm sample thickness at 5 GHz). The best series (GNP-based) was also subjected to further investigations: the thermal conductivity reached κ = 1.65 W/mK, providing an over 800% enhancement, and simultaneously, the electrical conductivity reached σ = 1.49 S/cm. Moreover, comprehensive studies of structural and thermal properties were carried out for all series, including filler dispersion analysis.
Extracellular matrices modulate differentiation of human embryonic stem cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells with spatial hepatic features
Authors: Farhan Faiza , Trivedi Manjari , Wu Priscilla Di , Cui Wei
Published: July 2023

Background
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) can provide a valuable in vitro model for disease modelling and drug development. However, it is challenging to generate these cells with functions comparable to hepatocytes in vivo. Extracellular matrices (ECM) play an important role in supporting liver development and hepatocyte functions, but their functions in hepatocyte differentiation and maturation during hPSC differentiation remain unclear. Here, we investigate the effects of two ECM - Matrigel and type I collagen on hepatic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs).
Methods
hESCs-derived HLCs were generated through multistage differentiation in 2D and 3D cultures, incorporating either type I collagen or Matrigel during hepatic specification and maturation. The resulting cells were characterized with various molecular and cellular techniques for their hepatic functionality.
Results
Our results showed that HLCs cultured with collagen exhibited a significant increase in albumin and alpha 1 anti-trypsin accompanied with reduced AFP compared to HLCs cultured with Matrigel and that they also secreted more urea than Matrigel cells. However, these HLCs exhibited lower CYP3A4 activity and glycogen storage than those cultured with Matrigel. The functional differences in HLCs between collagen and Matrigel cultures closely resembled the hepatocytes of periportal and pericentral zones, respectively.
Conclusion
Our study demonstrates that Matrigel and collagen have differential effects on the differentiation and functionality of HLCs, which resemble, to an extent, hepatic zonation in the liver lobules. Our finding has an important impact on the generation of hPSC-HLCs for biomedical and medical applications.
Synergetic Binary Organocatalyzed Ring Opening Polymerization for the Precision Synthesis of Polysiloxanes
Authors: Honda Satoshi , Okamoto Hiroshi , Fuke Kazuki
Published: July 2023

Organocatalytic ring opening polymerization (ROP) is a versatlie method for synthesizing well-defined polymers with controlled molecular weight, dispersity, and nonlinear macromolecular architectures. Despite spectacular advances in organocatalytic ROP, precision synthesis of polysiloxanes remains challenging due to the mismatch in polarity between highly polar initiators and nonpolar monomers and polymers and the difficulty in suppressing the formation of scrambling products via transetherification reactions during ROP of cyclic siloxanes. Here, we describe a binary organocatalytic ROP (BOROP) of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) employing organic bases as catalysts and (thio)ureas as cocatalysts. The BOROP of D3 using triazabicyclodecene (TBD) and (thio)ureas generates polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMSs) with narrow dispersity (Mw/Mn < 1.1). Despite the similar basicity of TBD and 1,8-bis(tetramethylguanidino)naphthalene (TMGN), which is known as a proton sponge, a unitary organocatalytic system using TMGN was inactive for the ROP of D3. When TMGN was paired with acidic urea, the BOROP of D3 yielded PDMSs with narrow dispersity (Mw/Mn < 1.1). Data suggest that the synergetic use of TMGN and urea is in an unprecedented activation–deactivation equilibrium between dormant and propagating species. The benefits of the present BOROP system are demonstrated based on the formation of PDMS elastomers with more uniform network structures with highly stretchy and excellent mechanical properties.
Where are extra-pair offspring raised: the mother’s, the father’s or the others’ nest?
Authors: Wang Chen , Chen Shicheng , Lu Xin
Published: July 2023

Extra-pair mating prevails among socially monogamous birds with biparental care. Theoretically, females may lay the resultant eggs in their own, their mating partners or other pairs’ nests, accordingly leading to extra-pair paternity (EPP), quasi-parasitism (QP) and extra-pair conspecific brood parasitism (CBP). Empirical evidence showed EPP to be widespread and QP rare, with extra-pair CBP having never been described. In Tibetan ground tits (Pseudopodoces humilis), we detected EPP, QP and extra-pair CBP in 54%, 47% and 24% of broods, which involved 20%, 16% and 8% of offspring, respectively. Cuckolding and cuckolded individuals in these events were genetically related and moderate inbreeding occurred between extra-pair partners, whereas social mates formed randomly with respect to relatedness. Promiscuity relative to genetic monogamy significantly increased annual reproductive output of both males and females, and extra-pair offspring did not differ from their within-pair siblings in body mass and heterozygosity. While the much high incidence of promiscuity can be ultimately driven by not only males but also females’ pursuit of increasing reproductive success, it may be proximately promoted by frequent kin ties in association with the species’ habit of burrow nesting and roosting, presumably kin-selected benefits may reduce the cost of arising non-descendant offspring. The fact that less than 30 altricial species have been documented with respect to extra-pair maternity (in contrast to over 360 species for EPP) suggests that more attention should be paid towards QP and extra-pair CBP to get a broader perspective on the evolution of avian mating systems.
Enhancing anti-tumor therapy with agmatine-cholesterol conjugate liposomes: in vitro and in vivo evidence
Authors: wang yanzhi , wang linchao , chang Hanyue , shen qing , zhang sai , sun shanshan , liu ying , zheng Jiaxin , liu hongmin
Published: July 2023

In this study, we synthesized a novel compound, agmatine-cholesterol conjugate (AG-Chol), to enhance the anti-tumor activity of liposomes. We used AG-Chol to replace cholesterol in preparing doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) liposomes by an active loading method. We assessed the physical and chemical properties of the resulting liposomes (AG-Liposomes) and evaluated their efficacy in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that AG-Liposomes were stable with high encapsulation efficiency. Compared with the control liposomes, AG-Liposomes exhibited a slower release rate in the release medium at pH 6.8. The in vitro cell experiments demonstrated that AG-Liposomes had higher tumor cell uptake, migration inhibition rate, apoptosis rate, anti-clonogenic ability, and lysosome escape ability than the control liposomes. In vivo distribution results demonstrate that liposomes prepared with AG-Chol instead of cholesterol can significantly enhance their tumor targeting abilities and reduce their distribution to non-targeted sites. In vivo tumor suppression experiments showed that AG-Liposomes had a higher tumor suppression rate than the control liposomes without apparent toxicity, as evidenced by histological staining. Therefore, substituting cholesterol with AG-Chol in the preparation of liposomes can result in enhanced lysosome escape, improved tumor targeting, and increased efficacy of anti-tumor drugs.
Growth parameters, hematology, immunity, and relative expressions of TNF-α and IL-8 genes in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed a combination of turmeric (Curcuma langa) powder and black pepper (Piper nigrum)
Authors: Aghili Seyedeh Mitra , Firouzbakhsh Farid , Haghparast Sara , Farhadi Ayoub
Published: July 2023

This research aimed to investigate the effect of turmeric powder (Curcuma langa) and black pepper (Piper nigrum) on growth parameters, blood, immunity, and the relative expression of immune-related genes in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Rainbow trout (n = 450, average weight 24.95 ± 0.70 g) were fed with four levels (0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1% of diet) of three combined levels of turmeric (C) and black pepper (P) plants (30% C + 70% P, 50% P + 50% C, 70% C + 30% P) in 10 experimental treatments each with three repetitions for 60 days. Growth, hematological and serum biochemical parameters, liver enzymes, serum immune parameters and the expression of TNF-α and IL-8 genes were evaluated at the end of the period. Based on the results, the highest values of final weight, average daily growth, specific growth rate, and the lowest food conversion coefficient were reported at the 1% level with the 70% C + 30% P combination. Significant changes were also observed in red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, total protein, globulin, lysozyme activity, total immunoglobulin, and complement activity at the 1% level with 70% C + 30% P combination. The TNFα gene relative expression decreased significantly in all nutritional treatments with the two combined plants compared to the control. The IL8 gene expression increased significantly in fish fed with the 1% combination of the two plants (70% P + 30% C) compared to the other treatments. Based on the findings, the optimal values of the growth, blood, and immunity parameters mainly at the 1% diet level in the treatments fed with the C and P combination can result from the positive effect of these compounds on the growth performance and immunogenesis in rainbow trout fingerling.
Static, refractive and monolithic Fourier transform spectrometer: development and prototyping
Authors: Frassetto Fabio , Cocola Lorenzo , Zuppella Paola , Deppo Vania Da , Poletto Luca
Published: July 2023

Static Fourier transform spectrometers are devices that can be realized as monolithic and compact assemblies. In the basic version, they are usually realized gluing together a beam-splitter with two reflective diffraction gratings using spacers as connecting elements. In this work we present the development and test of an alternative form of this kind of instrument in which the dispersive elements are Littrow’s prisms and are glued to the splitting element, forming in this way a robust and filled structure with no air gaps. The device can work in the visible/near infrared spectral region with a resolution power that varies across the spectral range due to the dispersion of the used glasses. The absence of hollow regions inside the monolithic block makes the device extremely robust and protects the optical surfaces inside the interferometer from possible contaminations. The device is particularly suited for miniaturization, being spacers and structural frames not necessary. The tested instrument works in the 470 nm - 850 nm wavelength range with a variable resolution between 3000 and 300.
Association between environmental mercury exposure and allergic disorders in Korean children: Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycles 3−4 (2015−2020)
Authors: Lee Ji-youn , Choi Yun-Hee , Choi Hyeon-il , Moon Kyong Whan
Published: July 2023

Although previous studies have suggested potential adverse effects of mercury on a child’s immune system, the associations have been inconsistent. We aimed to determine the association between urinary mercury levels and allergic diseases in Korean children with high mercury exposure. Data from 853 and 710 children aged 6–11 years in the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 3 (2015–2017) and cycle 4 (2018–2020) were analyzed. We examined the association between mercury exposure and the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), and allergic multimorbidity. After adjusting for all covariates, the urinary mercury level was positively associated with AD in the 2015–2017 study (aOR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.79) and AR in 2018–2020 study (aOR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.01, 2.10). Pooled effects showed aOR of 1.34 (95% CI = 1.01, 1.79) for AD and 1.47 (95% CI = 1.01, 2.12) for allergic multimorbidity. The association with allergic multimorbidity was greater in boys (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.01, 3.49) than in girls (aOR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.73, 2.14). These results suggest that environmental mercury exposure may exacerbate symptoms of atopic dermatitis and allergic multimorbidity in children.
Temporal and Periodic Analysis of Penumbra-Umbra Ratio for the Last Four Solar Cycles
Authors: Chowdhury Partha , Kilcik Ali , Saha Ankit , Rozelot Jean-Pierre , Obridko Vladimir , Erdelyi Robertus
Published: July 2023

We investigate the long-term dynamic behavior of the sunspot penum8bra to umbra area ratio by analyzing the Debrecen Photoheliographic Data9 (DPD) of sunspot groups during the period 1976–2017 (Solar Cycles 21-24). We consider all types of spots and notice that the average penumbra-umbra ratio does not exhibit any significant variation with spot latitudes, solar cycle phases as well as sunspot cycle strengths. However, the behavior of this ratio is different when we consider the latitudinal distribution of the northern and southern hemisphere separately. Our analysis indicates that the average spot ratio varies from 5.5 to 6.5 and for very large sunspots (> 5000 μhem; one μhem is 10-6 the area of millionth of visual solar hemisphere) its value rises to about 8.3. Further, we found that this ratio exhibit some kind of solar cycle trend for both smaller (area <100 μhem) and large (area > 100 μhem) sunspots. Finally, we have studied the periodic and quasi-periodic variations present in this ratio time series by the multitaper method (MTM) and wavelet technique. We found that along with the ∼11-years (solar cycle period), the penumbra to umbra area ratio data also show several mid-term variations, specifically, Rieger type and quasi-biennial periodicities.We also found that the Rieger-type of periods occurs in all cycles, but the temporal evolution and the modulation of these types of periodicities are different in different solar cycles.
Optimal foraging and neighborhood competition in Aphaenogaster ants: a field experiment with inferences on seed dispersal
Authors: DAI RAN
Published: July 2023

Optimal foraging is a theoretical framework which assumes maximization of net-energy gain. In the field, factors such as competition may alter animal behaviors and cause deviations from the general assumptions of optimal model. In August-November 2022, a field experiment was conducted which tested optimal foraging while considering intra-specific competition in seed-seeking Aphaenogaster ants (A. famelica, A. schurri) of two subtropical forests in Kunming, Yunnan, China. Density of the ant nests were estimated using distance sampling. Six pairs of neighboring ant nests (A and B) with competitive relationships were selected, with light and heavy tuna baits (resembling ant-dispersed seeds) assigned to three distance-scenarios (near A, in the middle, near B) between each pair. Blocking treatment was employed to detect possible changes under the normal vs. reduced competition stress. Time spent on different foraging phases (food discovery, removal, transportation) was recorded to investigate ant foraging strategy in relation to food load and distance from the nests. The results showed that density of the nests was 0.27(± 0.02) nests/m2. Food-searching was accelerated in the presence of competitors, with heavier foods removed faster when positioned further from the ant nests. While optimization of the foraging process benefits ants by maximizing food-gain under the competition with rivals, intra-specific competition may ultimately drive trait-evolution in myrmecochorous plants for selecting more efficient ant seed-dispersers.
An Analysis of Gis and Gps-enabled Traffic Violationmanagement in Bengaluru City Traffic Police, Karnataka, India.
Authors: Nidasosi Vinayak , Mangoli R.N
Published: July 2023

The twenty-first century has also been dubbed the "technological era" because everything is powered by technology and even humans live with it. Geographical Information Systems (GIS)[1] and Global Positioning Systems (GPS)1, which we use in our daily lives, plays a crucial role in the maintained order in the society, so making this the Police Department is the primary institution for maintaining order in society. And the police department has two major actions includes pre-action and post-action in the response to any violations, issues, public nuisance, anti-social behavior, and crime, among others. So with this in mind traffic management is also one of the phenomena under social order; a lack of attention to traffic management may lead to road accidents and other issues. Management of traffic violations is a tough task for the police officials to tackle and trace out manually, but at present the Karnataka State Police Department is fully fledged with technology, as a result of which the department now has E-Policing under the Karnataka Police-IT, with this discipline of geography as a professional discipline, by using GIS and GPS applications in traffic policing to prevent potential traffic violations and to tackle and trace out these issues.
Impact of Clonal Hematopoiesis in COVID-19 Patients at High Risk for Adverse Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Smith Cathy , Burugula Bala , Jones Morgan , Li Qing , Kitzman Jacob , Wong Terrence Neal
Published: July 2023

Purpose: Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) describes the aging-associated expansion of mutant hematopoietic cell populations. In various cohorts, CH has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality from non-hematologic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and infections, including COVID-19. Comorbidities placing individuals at risk of complications from these disorders, such as diabetes, also increase in prevalence with age and frequently co-exist with CH. How CH interacts with other aging-associated comorbidities to impact human health remains unknown.
Methods: We assessed the impact of CH on the pre-existing end-organ damage and ultimate clinical outcomes among 242 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at Michigan Medicine from March to June of 2020. In contrast to most previous studies, these patients skewed older with the majority having multiple comorbidities, which placed them at higher risk for end-organ damage and poor clinical outcomes.
Results: Overall CH was not significantly associated with increased COVID-19 mortality after controlling for other risk factors, although we did note a borderline-significant association specifically for non-DNMT3A CH mutations. In contrast, we observed a significant association between CH and pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD), which was strongest for DNMT3A mutant CH.
Conclusions: These data suggest that the clinical impact of CH is influenced by the specific gene(s) mutated and is further modified by other comorbidities and clinical risk factors frequently present in the elderly.
Effects of the anti-WSSV transgenic cyanobacterial oral agent on the development, reproduction, and physiology of the Daphnia magna
Authors: Tong Yupei , Xu Yang , Peng Wen , Shi Dingji , Li Yuqing , Jia Rui
Published: July 2023

Trans-vp28 gene cyanobacteria have good efficacy as oral agent against shrimp white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection in shrimp and have promising applications. However, environmental safety studies of transgenic cyanobacteria are still unknown. Daphnia magna is one of the most commonly used model organism to assess toxicity of wide range of pharmaceuticals. In this study, Daphnia magna was exposed to Scenedesmus obliquus (green algae), wild Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942 (cyanobacteria), transgentic Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942 (cyanobacteria). When the D. magna were exposed to cyanobacterial water environment 21 days. The results showed the body structure of D. magna in all experimental groups was intact without any abnormalities. The shedding time of D. magna in the cyanobacteria group was faster than that of D. magna in the green algae group. The mean number of eggs and the total number of eggs laid by D. magna were not significantly different in these experimental groups. In the 7-day toxicology experiment, we measured the enzyme activities of acetylcholinesterase (AchE), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and gene transcription levels of D. magna. The results showed that there were no significant differences in AchE and CAT enzyme activities of D. magna in the three cyanobacteria groups. The GST enzyme activity of D. magna in the green algae group was significantly higher than that in the cyanobacteria groups. At the same time, there was no significant difference between the cyanobacteria-transfer pRL489 vector group and the cyanobacteria-transfer vp28 group. We found no significant correlation between enzyme activity levels and gene transcription levels in each group. The transgenic cyanobacteria have limited impact on the aquatic organism D. magna.
S-adenosyl-L-methionine alleviates the senescence of ADSCs through the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway
Authors: Shang Lipeng , Li Xiaoxia , Ding Xiaoyan , Liu Guoxiang , Pan Zhen , Chen Xiangyan , Wang Yuelei , Li Bing , Wang Ting , Zhao Chunhua
Published: July 2023

BackgroundThe senescence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) greatly compromises their therapeutic effect in regenerative medicine. Numerous studies are focusing on possible rejuvenation strategies to enhance the efficacy of autologous MSC-based therapy. S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) is a metabolite present in all living cells. However, there is little research about the effects and mechanisms of SAM on the senescence of MSCs.MethodsIn this study, the effects of SAM on adipose-derived MSC (ADSC) senescence were assessed in vitro by β-galactosidase staining, reactive oxygen species assay, cell cycle tests, and Western blot. The osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation ability changes were also detected. Mouse models of premature aging were established by subcutaneous injection of D-Galactose (D-gal). The in vivo antiaging roles of SAM were tested through behavioral tests, organ coefficient, pathological morphology, and the expression of aging-related proteins in the major organs, such as the heart, liver, and kidney. The bone density of the distal femur, as well as the volume, number, and thickness of bone trabecula were evaluated by micro-CT. The molecular mechanisms were searched and validated by transcriptome sequencing, Western blot, and immunofluorescence. Small RNA interfering was used to knock down FOXO3a.ResultsIn oxidative stress–induced senescent ADSCs, SAM ameliorated the cell cycle arrest, reduced β-galactosidase activity, inhibited the expression of P53 and P21, and restored the expression of SIRT1, which significantly improved biological function. In addition, SAM also reduced the level of ROS and promoted the adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation of senescent ADSCs. Moreover, in a D-gal-induced mouse model of aging, SAM improved exercise ability and heart, liver, and kidney aging in mice. Additionally, the number and thickness of the bone trabeculae in the distal femur of the mice were increased. Transcriptome sequencing results revealed that PI3K/AKT was involved in SAM-mediated anti-senescence effects on MSCs. Mechanistically, SAM activated PI3K/AKT signaling and increased the phosphorylation of FOXO3a, resulting in a decrease in the translocation of FOXO3a to the nucleus and the inhibition of the FOXO3a activity on P21. Ultimately, this attenuated the senescence of ADSCs and improved their differentiation potential.ConclusionsIn summary, our results suggested that SAM could ameliorate the senescence of MSCs in vitro through PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling. Meanwhile, SAM could also exert antiaging roles in vivo.
Analyses of Hot/Warm CO2 Removal Processes for IGCC Power Plants
Authors: Chen Shiaoguo , Wang Ping , Hopkinson David P. , Ciferno Jared P. , Duan Yuhua
Published: July 2023

Compared with a pulverized coal power plant, the integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) has several advantages, including, among others better environmental performance and low CO2 capture cost. Hot/warm CO2 removal from syngas has also been a subject of research due to its potentially higher thermal efficiency. In this study, we proposed a generic adsorption based hot/warm CO2 removal process for IGCC power plants. Through analyses of the proposed generic process we have demonstrated that higher temperature of the hot/warm CO2 removal process will results in larger heat of adsorption, which in turns may increase energy consumption of the process. Under most of the operating temperature range, hot/warm CO2 removal process will lead to more electricity loss compared to the baseline Selexol process. However, if the adsorption step takes place at a temperature close to or higher than the highest steam temperature in steam cycle, our analysis indicates that the process may lead to minimal electricity loss. The study also provided some other insights into the pathways for hot/warm CO2 removal process to improve its energy performance through process and sorbent designs.
Mid-PRRT Response Predicts Overall Outcome in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Halperin Reut , Tirosh Amit
Published: July 2023

Introduction – Patients with advanced well differentiated neuroendocrine neoplasm (WD-NEN) often required both peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with subsequent chemotherapy. Although preserving bone marrow function is vital, there are no mid-PRRT response predictors, to limit radiation exposure in patients with low predicted success rate.
Purpose – To assess the utility of mid-PRRT response as a predictor for overall outcome in patients with WD-NEN.
Methods - A retrospective study of WD-NEN patients that underwent ≥4 PRRT cycles. Data gathered included demographics, tumor grade, stage, and treatment response (partial response [PR], stable disease [SD] or progressive disease [PD]) evaluated by 68Ga-DOTATATE positron emission tomography (PET)/computerized tomography (CT) pretreatment, one month after 2nd and 4th treatment cycle, six months after 4th cycle and at last follow-up.
Results - Thirty-one patients (51.6% women, age at diagnosis 62.8±1.8 years), with pancreatic (PNEN, n=15), small intestine (SiNEN, n=9), lung (LNEN, n=2) or other (n=5) NEN received PRRT, resulting in PR (n=14), SD (n=13) and PD (n=1). Patients with PNEN had superior response vs. SiNEN (p<0.05). Patients with PR at mid-treatment had higher PR rates after PRRT completion than those with SD (p=0.004), but not six months post-PRRT or at last follow-up (p>0.05 for both). On multivariable model, adjusted for age, grade and primary site, PR at mid-treatment evaluation was associated with 10.7 adjusted odds ratio for additional PR at PRRT completion (p=0.02).
Conclusion - Mid-PRRT assessment predicts subsequent response to PRRT in WD-NEN patients, allowing personalized management and reduced bone-marrow toxicity in high-risk patients.
Efficacy and safety of using a unilateral lower limb exoskeleton in neurorehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jin Ying , Zhang Chi , Chen Lina , Zhao Weiwei , Li Zhe , Xu Xin , Xiong Bing
Published: July 2023

Background
Stroke remains the leading cause of both mortality and disability globally. Recovery of limb function in patients with stroke is usually poor and requires an extended period. Consequently, rehabilitation technology in stroke has gained attention. A unilateral lower limb exoskeleton (ULLE), which has an intelligent relearning feature that promotes active engagement of the patient’s brain in controlling of encouraging a patient to actively use their brain to control the unaffected limb to lead the interactive movement of both limbs, thereby achieving individualized bilateral combined functional training, was recently developed to be used in patients with hemiplegia after stroke or traumatic brain injury. However, data on the efficacy and safety of ULLE in patients with stroke are scarce. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the LiteStepper® ULLE in gait training of patients with post-stroke hemiplegia.
Methods
This study was a multicenter, optimal, open, loaded, randomized controlled trial. Overall, 92 patients in their post-stroke phase from Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, The First Hospital of Jiaxing, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University were enrolled in this study. The experimental group (EG) adopted the LiteStepper® ULLE based on a once-daily 21-day routine rehabilitation. The conventional group (CG) only underwent the once-daily 21-day routine rehabilitation.
Results
The efficacy analysis outcomes (Berg balance scale, Functional Ambulation Category scale, 6-minute walking distance, and Barthel Index) between EG and CG had significant differences (P < 0.05) (analyzed using full analysis and per protocol sets). EG showed better improvements than CG (lower limit value [EG-CG] > 2). Safety analysis showed that only one adverse event related to the device occurred during the study, which verified the safety of using the ULLE for gait training in patients after stroke.
Conclusions
The LiteStepper®ULLE is effective and safe for gait training in patients after stroke.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05360017
Changed Interleukins are Associated with Sleep and/or Cognition in Chronic Insomnia Patients：A Pilot Study
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Zhe-Zhe , Xia Lan , Shi Chun-yang , Chen Gui-Hai
Published: July 2023

Background: Epidemiological studies have found that insomnia is a risk factor for many diseases, such as stroke and cognitive impairment. Therefore, studying changes in markers associated with insomnia related cognitive changes is crucial to understanding insomnia. The objective of this study was to investigate whether exist difference between chronic insomnia disorder and healthy individuals for serum cytokines, if so, whether these cytokines changes are correlated with sleep and/or cognition.Methods: Forty-one patients with chronic insomnia disorder and 39 healthy demographic-matched controls were enrolled. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scales were used to assess sleep quality and emotion, respectively. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (Chinese version) and Nine Box Maze Test were employed to assess cognition. Plasma pro-inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6sR, IL-6, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, IL-16, IL-17, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, and IL-23) and anti-inflammatory (IL-1RA, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, and IL-28A) cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results: Patients with chronic insomnia disorder: made significantly more errors on the spatial reference memory, spatial working memory, and object recognition memory tasks of the Nine Box Maze Test; had a higher level of serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6sR, IL-6, IL-21, and IL-23); and had lower level of serum anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, and IL-28A). In patients with chronic insomnia disorder, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-28A levels were negatively correlated with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. Cytokines (IL-10, IL-13, IL-2, IL-1β, and IL-6) in serum of chronic insomnia disorder patients were positively or negatively correlated with cognitive function (object reference memory, spatial reference memory, and object recognition memory errors on the Nine Box Maze Test).Conclusion:Patients with chronic insomnia disorder had pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokineimbalance that may be associated with insomnia and/or cognitive dysfunction severity.
Views of admitted palliative care patients and their clinicians on corneal donation discussions differ: A qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews
Authors: Patel Chirag , Nicmanis Mitchell , Chur-Hansen Anna , Crawford Gregory B
Published: July 2023

Background
Blindness from corneal opacity accounts for 2.4% of cases of blindness worldwide. There is a severe shortage of corneas for donation, globally, for transplantation and research purposes. One group of individuals who could potentially be donors are those who die within the inpatient palliative care unit. The aim of the study was to understand clinician and patient perceptions of discussing corneal donation in palliative care units.
Methods
A qualitative design was utilised with data collected through semi-structured interviews. A total of 46 interviews were undertaken involving inpatient palliative care unit patients (19) and clinicians (27) in three major inpatient palliative care units in South Australia.
Results
Very few patient participants reported being asked about corneal donations during their time in palliative care. Most inpatient palliative care unit clinicians did not raise the topic as they felt other areas of care took precedence. Inpatient palliative care unit patients thought if inpatient palliative care unit clinicians did not raise the topic, then it was not important. There were some differences between patient and clinician views, such as preference about who raises the possibility of donation and when the discussion might occur.
Conclusions
Findings suggest that patients are receptive to discussing corneal donations, but clinicians are not initiating these. This is a missed opportunity for donors and potential recipients. We recommend that clinicians routinely consider discussing organ donation as part of palliative care.
Chronotropic Incompetence and Abnormal Heart Rate Recovery in COPD: Relationship with Pulmonary Vascular Volume and Ventilatory Efficiency
Authors: Shi Minghui , Peng Yaodie , Yang Lulu , Qumu Shiwei , Huang Ke , He Ruoxi , Dong Feng , Niu Hongtao , Wang Siyuan , Yang Ting
Published: July 2023

Background: Cardiac automatic dysfunction (AD) is an established predictor of long-term mortality in patients with cardiopulmonary disease. It has been closely linked to lung blood perfusion abnormalities in pulmonary hypertension, a phenomenon that has been poorly studied in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to 1) characterize computed tomography (CT), spirometry, and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) features of COPD patients with cardiac AD; and 2) estimate the association of AD with CT-derived vascular and CPET-derived ventilatory efficiency metrics.
Methods: Patients were randomly recruited and underwent clinical evaluation, spirometry, CPET, and CT. Cardiac AD was determined based on chronotropic incompetence (CI) or delayed heart rate recovery (HRR) during CPET.
Results: Among 46 patients included in the study, CI was observed in 59% and delayed HRR was present in 35%. According to multivariate analyses, patients with CI were more likely to have reduced vascular volume (VV; VV < median; odds ratio [5–95% confidence interval], 4.82 [1.17–19.80]) and low ventilatory efficiency (nadir VE/VCO2 > median ; odds ratio [5–95% confidence interval], 6.89 [1.57–30.20]). Similar results were found for delayed HRR (VV < median; odds ratio [5–95% confidence intervals], 13.45 [1.95–92.85], nadir VE/VCO2 > median; odds ratio [5–95% confidence interval], 12.33 [1.56–97.30]).
Conclusions: Cardiac AD is associated with increased pulmonary vascular volume and ventilatory efficiency. Findings suggest that lung blood perfusion abnormalities may occur in these patients, a result that requires confirmation via the assessment of a large population-based cohort.
Mechanochemical Activation of Ternary Auxiliary Cementitious Materials Based on Iron Tailings
Authors: Zhang Nian Yan , Li Qi , Zhao Jian , An Ming
Published: July 2023

Due to the large amount of carbon dioxide emitted by cement, more and more people are concerned about the sustainability and decarbonization of the cement industry. At present, the most common practice is to incorporate solid waste into concrete to achieve urban sustainability. Iron Ore Tails (IOTs) can serve as SCMs using various activation methods, but comprehensive research is lacking on the calcium phase solid waste of the ternary SCMs system (IOT, steel slag, and desulfurization ash) based on IOTs. In this paper, the following parameters are selected when studying the factors affecting the strength of ISD system. These parameters are water-binder ratio, grinding time of iron tailings, admixture ratio and chemical activator content. The study also analyzes the impact of IOT-based ternary SCMs on concrete performance, and the microstructure of concrete is evaluated using XRD, DTA-TG, mercury intrusion method, and SEM.
Permeability Evolution and Damage Characterization of Sandstone under Various Confining Pressures and Seepage Pressure Gradients
Authors: Lin Zhinan , Long Haifeng , Wang Jiaquan , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2023

In the realm of deep hydraulic engineering, diversion caverns often confront significant challenges due to high in-situ stress and high seepage pressure gradient. These conditions result in intricate mechanical behavior and permeability characteristics within the surrounding rock. In light of this, the present study aims to investigate the relationship between damage evolution and permeability characteristics of sandstone prior to failure under hydromechanical coupling conditions through a series of hydromechanical coupling tests. The results of these tests demonstrate that the strength and deformation resistance of sandstone exhibit variations corresponding to changes in the seepage pressure gradient. Moreover, an increase in seepage pressure gradient leads to a shift in the failure patterns of sandstone from low-inclination shear failure to steep-angle shear failure. Throughout the failure process of sandstone, the permeability curve initially decreases, followed by a rapid increase before ultimately stabilizing. Notably, the peak value of the permeability curve lags behind that of the stress-strain curve. Furthermore, when the seepage pressure gradient initially rises and then drops, the permeability of sandstone undergoes an irreversible change in the opposite direction, failing to return to its initial value. Based on these observations, a statistical damage model is proposed for rocks, accounting for hydromechanical coupling. Remarkably, the theoretical values derived from this model align well with experimental results. This model, grounded in the laws governing permeability evolution and damage properties of sandstone prior to failure, offers valuable guidance for monitoring and controlling rock stability in diversion caverns subjected to hydromechanical coupling actions.