bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional responses to direct and indirect TGFβ1 stimulation in cancerous and noncancerous mammary epithelial cells.
Authors: Janus Patryk , Kuś Paweł , Jaksik Roman , Vydra Natalia , Toma-Jonik Agnieszka , Gramatyka Michalina , Kurpas Monika , Kimmel Marek , Widłak Wiesława
Published: March 2024

Background: Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) is important for the morphogenesis and secretory function of the mammary gland. It is one of the main activators of the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process important for tissue remodeling and regeneration, but also providing cells with the plasticity to form metastases during tumor progression. Noncancerous and cancer cells respond differently to TGFβ. However, knowledge of the cellular signaling cascades triggered by TGFβ in various cell types is still limited.
Methods: MCF10A (noncancerous, originating from fibrotic breast tissue) and MCF7 (cancer, estrogen receptor-positive) breast epithelial cells were treated with TGFβ1 directly or through conditioned media from stimulated cells. Transcriptional changes (via RNA-seq) were assessed in untreated cells and after 1-6 days of treatment. Differentially expressed genes were detected with DESeq2 and the hallmark collection was selected for gene set enrichment analysis.
Results: TGFβ1 induces EMT in both the MCF10A and MCF7 cell lines but via slightly different mechanisms (signaling through SMAD3 is more active in MCF7 cells), and many EMT-related genes are expressed in MCF10A cells at baseline. Both cell lines respond to TGFβ1 by decreasing the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation: through the repression of MYC (and its targets) in MCF10A cells and the activation of p63-dependent signaling in MCF7 cells (CDKN1A and CDKN2B, which are responsible for the inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases, are upregulated). In addition, estrogen receptor signaling is inhibited and caspase-dependent cell death is induced only in MCF7 cells. Moreover, direct incubation with TGFβ1 and treatment of cells with conditioned media similarly affected transcriptional profiles. However, TGFβ1-induced protein secretion is more pronounced in MCF10A cells; therefore, the signaling is propagated through conditioned media (bystander effect) more effectively in MCF10A cells than in MCF7 cells.
Conclusions: Estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients may benefit from high levels of TGFB1 expression due to the repression of estrogen receptor signaling, inhibition of proliferation, and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. However, some TGFβ1-stimulated cells may undergo EMT, which increases the risk of metastasis.
Study of Corneal and Retinal Thicknesses at Five Years after FS-LASIK and SMILE for Myopia
Authors: Li Jiayu , Lv Xiaotong , Xu Yushan , Sun Mingshen , Zhang Fengju
Published: March 2024

BACKGUOND:This study aimed to compare corneal and retinal thicknesses at 5 years after femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for myopia, investigate the effect of epithelial remodeling on refractive status.METHODS:Patients who received FS-LASIK or SMILE 5 years before were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. After 1:1 propensity score matching, each surgical group obtained 177 patients (177 eyes). Visual acuity and refraction were measured in this visit at 5 years after surgery. Corneal and retinal thickness maps were generated by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The Quality of Vision (QoV) questionnaire was used to assess visual symptoms and overall satisfaction. Thicknesses between groups were compared, contributing factors were analyzed, and correlations between epithelial thickness (ET), postoperative refractive status and overall satisfaction were evaluated.RESULTS:Compared to SMILE group, central and paracentral ET of FS-LASIK group were thicker, pericentral ET was thinner, and the discrepancy of ET between central and pericentral zones was larger (all P<0.05). This discrepancy was correlated with postoperative spherical equivalent (SE) and myopic regression (all P<0.05) in both groups, but not correlated with QoV scores and overall satisfaction (both P>0.05). There was no statistical difference in stromal thickness (ST) and total corneal thickness (all P>0.05). Most annuluses of ET and ST were linearly related to preoperative SE (all P<0.05). Statistical difference of ET between high and super-high myopia groups only was found in supratemporal section of pericentral zone in SMILE group (P=0.012). Macular thickness, ganglion cell complex thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness of two groups had no statistical difference (all P>0.05).CONCLUSION:The tendency that ET in central zone was thicker than peripheral zone was more obvious at 5 years after FS-LASIK compared to SMILE. This tendency was also more significant in patients with higher degree of myopia. Epithelial remodeling might be one of the reasons of myopic regression, but it had little effect on patients' subjective visual quality and satisfaction. Retinal thickness was not affected by these two surgical methods.
Beyond Words: Speech Synchronization and Conversation Dynamics Linked to Personality and Appraisals
Authors: Arellano-Véliz Nicol Alejandra , Castillo Ramón Daniel , Jeronimus Bertus F. , Kunnen Elske Saskia , Cox Ralf F.A.
Published: March 2024

We studied how personality differences and conversation topics predict interpersonal speech synchronization, leading/following dynamics, and nonverbal interactional dominance in dyadic conversations. 100 undergraduate students (50 same-gender dyads) had a 15-minute conversation following three topics (introduction/self-disclosure/argumentation) in our laboratory. Their speech synchronization and turn-taking (speech/silence) dynamics were assessed through nonlinear time-series analyses: Cross-Recurrence Quantification Analysis (CRQA), Diagonal Cross-Recurrence Profiles (DCRP), and Anisotropic-CRQA. From the time series, we extracted five variables to operationalize speech synchronization (global and at lag-zero), leading-following dynamics, and asymmetries in the interacting partners’ nonverbal interactional dominance. Interaction appraisals were also assessed. Associations between personality traits Extraversion/Agreeableness, speech synchronization, and nonverbal interactional dominance were tested using mixed-effects models. Speech synchronization and nonverbal interactional dominance differed across conversational topics and peaked during argumentative conversations. Extraversion was associated with increased speech synchronization, and nonverbal interactional dominance, especially during an argumentative conversation. Extraversion homogeneity was associated with more symmetry in turn-taking dynamics during a self-disclosure conversation. Speech synchronization was generally associated with positive post-conversational appraisals such as wanting to meet in the future or liking the conversation partner, especially in extroverted individuals, whereas introverts seemed to value less swift dynamics. High Agreeableness predicted less speech synchronization during argumentative conversations, and increased speech synchronization (at lag-zero) predicted reduced perceived naturality in agreeable individuals. This may suggest a trade-off between maintaining swift speech dynamics and the natural flow of conversation for individuals high in Agreeableness.
Exploration of Short-chain Fatty Acid-Associated Hub Genes and potential therapeutic targets in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Huang Wenbin , Kuang Jifa , Li Ailing , Liang Yan , Chen Feilan , Fu Yu
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy with degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and retinal nerve fiber layer. Studies have shown that short chain fatty acids produced by gut microbiota can regulate intraocular inflammation. The aim of this research was to screen biomarkers associated with short chain fatty acids in glaucoma.
Methods
Firstly, WGCNA was performed for obtaining the key module genes associated with the primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). We performed differential expression analysis (POAG samples vs normal samples) to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE27276 dataset. The short chain fatty acids related differentially expressed genes (SCFAR-DEGs) were obtained by overlapping DEGs, short chain fatty acids related genes (SCFARGs) and key module genes. Three machine learning algorithms were implemented to select short chain fatty acids related biomarkers. We performed immune infiltration and GSEA based on biomarkers.
Results
A sum of 2433 key module genes associated with POAG were identified. We identified 615 DEGs between two groups. Soon afterwards, 10 SCFAR-DEGs were obtained through overlapping DEGs, SCFARGs and key module genes. Moreover, 5 biomarkers associated with short chain fatty acids, including HBB, ZFP36, NFKBIA, TIMP2 and NAMPT, were screened via three machine learning algorithms. The immune infiltration and GSEA analysis suggested that these biomarkers were related to the function of antigen presentation and some differential immune cells.
Conclusion
Overall, we obtained five short chain fatty acids related biomarkers (THBB, ZFP36, NFKBIA, TIMP2 and NAMPT) associated with POAG, which laid a theoretical foundation for the treatment of glaucoma.
Serum Levels of Pentadecanoic Acids and Heptadecanoic Acids Negatively Correlate with Kidney Stone Prevalence: Evidence from NHANES 2011–2014
Authors: Chen Tanping , Li Shuai , Luo jing , Li Xinyan , Wang Wenhao , Lu Wenlong , He Yandong , Xu Xiaolin
Published: March 2024

Current understanding recognizes odd-chain fatty acids as advantageous for health; however, studies exploring the link between the concentration of odd-chain fatty acids in the blood and the occurrence of kidney stones are sparse. a cross-sectional analysis was initiated to delve into the relationship between the presence of odd-chain fatty acids (C15:0, C17:0, C23:0) in the serum and the prevalence of kidney stones among adult populations. This research encompassed 4,069 individuals extracted from the NHANES dataset for the period of 2011 to 2014, focusing on evaluating the connection between the levels of odd-chain fatty acids in adults aged over 20 and the frequency of kidney stones. To assess both linear and nonlinear relationships among the participants, techniques such as multivariable linear regression and spline fitting were utilized. Analysis efforts were extended to evaluate how various demographic segments influence the connection between serum odd-chain fatty acids and kidney stone formation. Results derived from complex linear regression analysis revealed a reverse correlation between the levels of C15:0 (measured in umol/L) in the serum and the incidence of kidney stones (Odds Ratio=0.98, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.97, 1.00), a pattern that was similarly observed for C17:0 (measured in umol/L) (Odds Ratio=0.98, 95% Confidence Interva:0.97, 1.00). Conversely, the study did not establish a meaningful link between C23:0 (measured in umol/L) serum concentrations and the frequency of kidney stones (Odds Ratio=0.99, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.97, 1.01). To encapsulate, an investigative review of adult participants from the NHANES database over the period of 2011 to 2014, focusing on serum levels of odd-chain fatty acids (C15:0, C17:0, C23:0), uncovered a negative correlation with the prevelance of kidney stones and pentadecanoic acids and heptadecanoic acids serum levels.
Impact of Molecular Biomarker Test Availability and Timing on Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Treatment Selection and Clinical Outcomes in the U.S. Medicare Population
Authors: Markward Nathan , Bilder Scott , Petrilla Allison , Stevinson Kendall Lee , Sultan Ihtisham , Jones Barton , Waterhouse David , Stollenwerk Bjoern
Published: March 2024

Background: Advanced/metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) is associated with significant mortality. Molecular testing for selected oncogenes holds the promise of more effective targeted therapy versus systemic chemotherapies. This retrospective claims-based study examines timing of biopsy and molecular testing, treatment selection relative to biomarker status, and overall survival.
Methods: Medicare data for patients with newly diagnosed mNSCLC were linked with molecular testing results from the Prognos NSCLC Explorer Dataset, including alterations implicated in NSCLC. Intervals between diagnosis, tissue acquisition, availability of test results, and initiation of treatment were calculated. Patients with actionable biomarker test results were compared with respect to treatment selection and overall survival. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the likelihood of mortality between treatments.
Results: A total of 11,407 patients qualified for analysis (Mean age±SD: 75.6±6.5 years; 50.7% female; 86.2% White). Biopsy was conducted between 2-12 days after clinical diagnosis, and biomarker results were typically available within three weeks. Initial treatment started soon after, and 63.4% of patients initiated first line of treatment (1LOT). Of 21.5% patients with actionable genomic testing results for ALK, BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, MET, NTRK, RET, or ROS1, use of targeted therapy (28%) was limited compared with immune checkpoint inhibitors (39%) and chemotherapies (33%). Of 78.5% without molecular alterations, lower use of both targeted therapy (24%) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (36%) and greater use of chemotherapy (40%) were observed. Patients with actionable mutations on targeted therapy were observed to have higher survival compared to other therapies. Hazard death ratios [Confidence Intervals] were significantly greater in patients receiving an immune checkpoint inhibitor (1.365[1.102-1.690]; p<0.05) and higher, although non-significantly, among chemotherapy (1.164[0.932-1.453]) recipients.
Conclusions: Biomarker mutation status was available for many mNSCLC patients. Relatively short intervals between diagnosis of metastatic disease, biopsy, receipt of test results, and start of therapy were observed. Targeted therapy was associated with a higher overall survival when compared to both immune checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy. These findings support the expanded use of molecular biomarker testing in patients with newly diagnosed mNSCLC. The availability of actionable biomarkers appears to guide selection of 1LOT toward targeted therapy with improved survival.
Predictive value of a single highest suspicious ultrasound feature in subcentimeter thyroid nodules: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Huang Peiying , Han Lili , Shi Xiulin , Xiao Fangsen , Shen Qingbao , Li Xuejun , Zhang Fuxing
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Proper management of subcentimeter thyroid nodules remains challenging for both clinicians and patients. Conducting extensive sonographic research using a safe and inexpensive tool for identifying thyroid nodules is necessary. This study aimed to identify whether having a highest ultrasound (US) risk characteristic suggests that US-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy in subcentimeter nodules is more appropriate for the identification of malignancy than active surveillance (AS) or surgery.
Methods
The data of patients with highly suspicious subcentimeter thyroid nodules with US characteristics who underwent surgery were retrospectively examined.
Results
Among a total of 556 subcentimeter nodules, 223 (40.1%) were benign and 333 (59.9%) were malignant, with a mean maximal nodule size of 8.1 mm. The US features that were significantly associated with malignancy were age below 45 years, irregular margin, presence of microcalcification, and a taller-than-wide shape (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis also identified a taller-than-wide shape (OR = 8.988, P = 0.0015) as an independent factor associated with malignancy in subcentimeter thyroid nodules. The diagnostic performance of the preoperative FNA was classified as a malignancy, with a sensitivity of 98.4%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 76.9%.
Conclusions
This study is one of the few reports based on actual data of highest suspicious US features in thyroid subcentimeter nodules. A taller-than-wide shape is the US feature most significantly associated with malignancy. FNA is a simple, accurate, and reliable preoperative method for diagnosing malignant subcentimeter thyroid nodules with highly suspicious US characteristics. AS was less appropriate than FNA for subcentimeter nodules with a taller-than-wide shape, especially in patients ≤ 45 years.
Recurrent ovarian dysgerminoma: a case report of salvage treatment and a review of the literature
Authors: Zhang Kezhen , Yang Jie , Zhang Xinyue , Yang Jiaxin
Published: March 2024

Background.
Ovarian dysgerminoma is a common type of malignant ovarian germ cell tumor. In most cases, patients with ovarian dysgerminoma had a great prognosis even when in an advanced stage. Recurrence in ovarian dysgerminoma is rare, and salvage treatment strategies remain uncertain.
Case.
A 16-year-old girl underwent fertility-sparing surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy for stage IVB ovarian dysgerminoma. The patient experienced 5 recurrences and failure of salvage chemotherapy after the initial treatment. Ultimately, a second debulking surgery followed by chemotherapy resulted in long-term disease-free survival of over 45 months.
Conclusion.
Salvage surgery may improve the prognosis of patients in selected cases of recurrent ovarian dysgerminoma.
RETRACTED: Evaluation of the Effect of Balneotherapy (Spa Treatment) on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with JJ Stents: A prospective placebo-controlled study
Authors: ERGİN İsmail Emre , Öztürk Abuzer , Sancı Adem , Asdemir Aydemir
Published: March 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Learning novel SARS-CoV-2 lineages from wastewater sequencing data
Authors: Ellmen Isaac , Overton Alyssa K. , Knapp Jennifer J. , Nash Delaney , Ho Hannifer , Hungwe Yemurayi , Prasla Samran , Nissimov Jozef I. , Charles Trevor C.
Published: March 2024

Background: Wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 has emerged as a critical tool for tracking the spread of COVID-19.In addition to estimating the relative case numbers using quantitative PCR, SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA can be extracted from wastewater and sequenced.There are many existing techniques for using the sequenced RNA to determine the relative abundance of known lineages in a sample.However, it is very challenging to predict novel lineages from wastewater data due to its mixed composition and unreliable genomic coverage. Results: In this work, we present a novel technique based on non-negative matrix factorization which is able to extract novel lineage definitions by analyzing data from across different samples.We test the method both on synthetic and real wastewater sequencing data.We show that the technique is able to determine major lineages such as Omicron and Delta as well as sub-lineages such as BA.5.2.1. Conclusions: We provide a method for determining emerging lineages in wastewater without the need for genomic data from clinical samples. This could be used for routine monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 as well as other emerging viral pathogens in wastewater. Additionally, it may be used to derive more sequences for viruses with fewer complete genomes.
Finite-element analysis of different fixation types after Enneking II+III pelvic tumor resection: A case study
Authors: Sun Yu , Xue Haowen , Wang Xiaonan , Zhang Jiaxin , Xu Zezhou , Guo Yunting , Xin Renlong , Yu Zhenglei , Han Qing , Zhao Xin , Wang Jincheng , Ren Luquan
Published: March 2024

The current primary treatment approach for malignant pelvic tumors involves hemipelvic prosthesis reconstruction following tumor resection. In cases of Enneking type II + III pelvic tumors, the prosthesis necessitates fixation to the remaining iliac bone. Prevailing methods for prosthesis fixation include the saddle prosthesis, ice cream prosthesis, modular hemipelvic prosthesis, and personalized prosthetics using three-dimensional printing. To prevent failure of hemipelvic arthroplasty protheses, a novel fixation method was designed and finite element analysis was conducted. In clinical cases, the third and fourth sacral screws broke, a phenomenon also observed in the results of finite element analysis. Based on the original surgical model, designs were created for auxiliary dorsal iliac, auxiliary iliac bottom, auxiliary sacral screw, and auxiliary pubic ramus fixation. A nonlinear quasi-static finite element analysis was then performed under the maximum load of the gait cycle, and the results indicated that assisted sacral dorsal fixation significantly reduces stress on the sacral screws and relative micromotion exceeding 28 µm. The fixation of the pubic ramus further increased the initial stability of the prosthesis and its interface osseointegration ability. Therefore, for hemipelvic prostheses, incorporating pubic ramus support and iliac back fixation is advisable, as it provides new options for the application of hemipelvic tumor prostheses.
Preparation of hyperbranched polysiloxane containing terminal amino group and research on their luminescence properties
Authors: Jia Yuan , Yang Juxiang , Ma Mingyang , Li Beibei , Liu Zhen
Published: March 2024

In order to obtain a polymer with good biocompatibility and aggregation induced luminescence, amino group was introduced into hyperbranched polysiloxane (HBPSi) structure by one-step transesterification, and two HBPSi containing terminal amino group (HBPSi-NH2) were prepared. It was worth noting that both of them exhibit good luminescence characteristics. To further study the relationship between their structure and luminescence intensities, the structure and molecular weight distribution of these two HBPSi-NH2 were studied by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), the luminescence properties of the prepared NH2-HBPSi were characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy (PL). The results showed that the luminescence intensity of HBPSi-NH2 was affected by the molecular weight and dispersion. HBPSi-NH2 with high molecular weight can emit strong fluorescence, and in the good solvent (tetrahydrofuran, THF), the HBPSi-NH2 exhibit strong dispersion and leads to the weakest luminescence performance, while in bad solvent, it can lead to the weak dispersion and the strongest luminescence performance.
First evidence that interactions of Heat Shock Protein 20 with reproduction-related proteins aid in fertility recovering from heat stress in Monochamus alternatus
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Hualei , Tan Yushan , Li Shouyin , Zhao Peiyuan , Ye Jianren , Hao Dejun
Published: March 2024

Insects, as ectotherms, are highly susceptible to temperature increases due to global climate change, with heat tolerance being crucial for their survival. Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) play a vital role in this tolerance, preventing protein denaturation. However, the interaction between HSPs and their native substrate proteins remains underexplored. This study examined the effects of heat stress on Monochamus alternatus, a significant pest in forestry, focusing on its reproductive heat tolerance and recovery. Heat stress was found to reduce fecundity, fertility, mating, and oviposition behaviors, alongside impairing the development and viability of reproductive organs and sperm. Remarkably, all reproductive parameters of M. alternatus recovered within four weeks post-exposure. To investigate the recovery mechanisms, we identified ten reproduction-related proteins as candidate substrate protein of an HSP protein in M. alternatus using immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry analysis. Heat stress inhibited the transcription of these reproduction-related genes, thereby adversely affecting reproductive parameters. However, the induction of HSP20s transcription in response to heat stress appeared to facilitate the refolding of these critical reproduction-related proteins during the recovery phase, preventing lasting reproductive damage. Overall, this study suggested that while M. alternatus populations might be vulnerable to climate-induced temperature increases, their fertility had the capacity to recover, mediated by HSPs’ interaction with reproduction-related genes. These findings offered profound insights into insect heat tolerance and recovery, expanding our understanding of HSP20 proteins’ biological functions.
Fault prediction of complete electrical engineering equipment based on deep learning technology
Authors: Deng Xiaotao
Published: March 2024

In order to ensure the safe operation of equipment, extend its lifespan, and reduce maintenance costs, the author conducted research on fault prediction of electrical engineering complete equipment based on deep learning technology. Firstly, by analyzing the working principle and fault characteristics of the equipment, determine the data features suitable for fault prediction; Then, deep learning models such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Long Short Term Memory Networks (LSTM) are used to analyze the operational data of the equipment and achieve fault prediction; Finally, through comparative experiments, the results showed that the CNN model achieved good performance in fault prediction tasks, with a recall rate of 0.86, an accuracy rate of 0.85, and an F1 value of 0.85. This indicates that the CNN model can effectively capture local features in device signals: (2) The LSTM model performs slightly better than the CNN model in fault prediction tasks, with a recall rate of 0.89, an accuracy rate of 0.88, and an F1 value of 0.88. This indicates that the LSTM model has advantages in capturing temporal features: (3) The CNN LSTM fusion model combines the advantages of CNN and LSTM models, with a recall rate of 0.93, accuracy rate of 0.92, and Fl value of 0.92, which is significantly better than the performance of using CNN or LSTM alone. This indicates that feature fusion can further improve the accuracy of fault prediction.
Intelligent Speech System Relying on Fourier Transform in English Learning
Authors: Xiao Liwen
Published: March 2024

The English intelligent pronunciation training system is a comprehensive system based on multiple functions such as speech recognition, comparison, pronunciation scoring, and correction. In this paper, the Fourier analysis of the speech signal is carried out to obtain the spectral characteristics of each frame. At the same time, this paper analyses the speech signal using multi-sensor fusion tracking and recognition technology. The method achieves the purpose of speech recognition by automatically matching the entropy value of the extracted English speech-related information. The practice has proved that the speech recognition system developed can accurately carry out qualitative pronunciation lip correction. The application of this method in English speech recognition has a good application prospect.
Mapping digital competencies in the business domain – an empirical workplace analysis using job advertisements
Authors: Schlottmann Philipp
Published: March 2024

The rapid development of digital technologies has revolutionized the way companies operate and conduct business. Organizations now require higher attention paid to digital competencies to leverage the usage of digital tools and platforms effectively, optimize processes, reach customers and stay ahead of competition. This study examines how digital competencies have changed in the ﬁeld of business administration to identify essential skills and knowledge required in today’s corporational landscape. Text mining is used to extract digital skills from a vast dataset of 25,000 job advertisements in the business administration field. The resulting empirical data is analysed to derive profiles outlining the development of digital competencies in the business administration field. The study reveals two specific digital competencies in high demand: analytical evaluation utilizing various software tools and communication via social media. Competence requirements from the labour market can indicate the design of study programmes and the adaptation of teaching methods.
Thermomechanical and mechanical properties of biocidal materials based on polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride and polyvinyl alcohol
Authors: Ryabova V. O. , Ayurova O. Zh. , Ochirov O. S. , Grigor’eva M. N. , Stelmakh S. A.
Published: March 2024

During the development of polymer science, attention has been attracted to different research areas. The current focus on polymer mixtures is due to their practical significance. Studying the physical and mechanical properties of polymer mixtures has led to a revision of existing basic concepts, the emergence of new research directions and the solution of practical problems. From this point of view, polymer mixtures are similar to copolymerization in achieving specific properties by combining different chemical structures. The use of polymer mixtures allows materials with the desired properties to be obtained at a faster rate than the synthesis of high-molecular compounds. In recent years, numerous studies have been published on the interaction of various polymers, particularly water-soluble and naturally occurring polymers that are safe for humans and the environment. The development of such materials is of great interest due to their high adhesive strength. These materials can be used to obtain polymer films with new valuable properties. This work investigates the potential of improving the thermomechanical and mechanical properties of films for use in construction as polymer biocidal additives by modifying polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride with polyvinyl alcohol. Films based on a polymer-polymer mixture of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride and polyvinyl alcohol were used as a research object.
Composition of fatty acids of higher aquatic plants in Lake Kotokel as valuable biological raw materials
Authors: Zhigzhitzhapova S. V. , Nikitina E. P. , Bazarsadueva S. V. , Dylenova E. P. , Anenkhonov O. A. , Taraskin V. V. , Radnaeva L. D.
Published: March 2024

Fatty acids, as part of cell membranes, determine their fluidity and dielectric constant. In addition, they play an important role in human and animal nutrition. This work examines the composition and fatty acid content of dried higher aquatic plants from Lake Kotokel (Republic of Buryatia, Russia) and their potential as a raw material for 

the production of feed and biologically active food supplements. A modified Bligh-Dyer method was used to extract lipid fraction. Fatty acids in the form of their methyl esters were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Palmitic C16:0 acid was the main saturated fatty acid found in Myriophyllum sibiricum, Elodea canadensis, Persicaria amphibia and Potamogeton perfoliatus in Lake Kotokel. The main unsaturated acid found in plants, regardless of their type, was the α-linolenic C18:3-ω3 acid. In addition, a relatively high content of stearic C18:0, myristic C14:0 and pentadecanoic C15:0 acids was noted. Branched acids (i-C14:0, i-C15:0, i-C16:0, i-C17:0, i-C20:0, a/i-C15:0, a/i-C17:0 and 10Me-C16:0) and odd carbon numbered acids (C13:0, C15:0, C17:0, C19:0, C21:0 and C23:0) were identified. An analysis of the authors’ and literature data revealed that the studied species of higher aquatic plants in reservoirs in the Asian part of Russia are characterised by a high content of α-linolenic C18:3-ω3 (up to 56%) and a low content of oleic C18:1-ω9 (up to 1.81%) acids. The content of α-linolenic C18:3-ω3 acid in plants from reservoirs in the European part of Russia was lower (up to 42%), while that of oleic acid C18:1-ω9 was higher (up to 14%).
Deep eutectic solvents based on glycerol as selective extractants for the recovery of aromatic hydrocarbons and petroleum acids from model fuel
Authors: Niftullayeva S. A. , Mamedova Y. V. , Mamedov I. G.
Published: March 2024

The study set out to extract various types of hydrocarbons from model fuels using deep eutectic solvents based on glycerol. These solvents were synthesised by mixing glycerol as acting as a hydrogen bond donor with ammonium chloride or triethylammonium acetate [tea] [AcO]- acting as a hydrogen bond acceptor at room temperature in a volume ratio of 1:6. A mixture of n-decane and n-hexadecane was selected as components of the model fuel. For the extraction of mixtures of benzene, ethylbenzene (5%), p-, m-, o-cresol, fluorenone (3.5%) and petroleum acids (25%), these deep eutectic solvents were used at room temperature, as well as at a temperature of 60°C, and at atmospheric pressure. Extraction efficiency was evaluated by [1]NMR spectroscopy. The results demonstrated the complete single-stage extraction of p-, m- and o-cresols from the model fuel using the studied deep eutectic solvents. A deep eutectic solvent based on glycerol and triethylammonium acetate was found to have the highest extraction efficiency. The recovery rates for benzene, ethylbenzene, and fluorenone at room temperature are achieved in 3 hours of stirring (75, 25, and 53%, respectively). M- and o-cresols were fully recovered in 1 hour in a single step using a deep eutectic solvent based on triethylammonium acetate, while complete extraction of aromatic acids from a mixture of petroleum acids in model fuel was achieved using a deep eutectic solvent obtained by mixing ammonium chloride and glycerol.
Fluids in the shallow mantle of southeastern Australia: Insights from phase equilibria
Authors: Lamb William M. , Hunt Lindsey E. , Popp Robert K.
Published: March 2024

Small amounts of water (tens to hundreds of parts per million) can have a profound effect on the properties of mantle peridotites, including viscosities, conductivities, and melting temperatures. Measuring the water content of nominally anhydrous minerals (NAMs) has provided insight into the amounts of water contained within mantle rocks. However, converting from NAM water contents to the activity of H2O is non-trivial. Equilibria involving amphibole can be used to determine values of the activity of H2O (aH2O) at the time of mineral equilibration. This approach yields low values of the activity of H2O (<0.3) for four peridotite xenoliths from Southeastern Australia. These four xenoliths also record values of oxygen fugacity (fO2) that range from –0.2 to –1.2 log units below the fayalitemagnetite-quartz buffer. All these values of fO2 are inconsistent with the presence of a CH4-rich fluid (too oxidizing), and the lowest value of oxygen fugacity, as recorded by one sample, is inconsistent with the presence of a CO2-rich fluid.
Chorioretinal folds as a symptom of orbital neoplasia. A case report
Authors: Svetozarskiy S. N. , Igonin G. S.
Published: March 2024

Chorioretinal folds are a wave-like change of the form of the choroid and outer retinal layers resulting from changes in the surface area ratio of the sclera, the choroid, and the retina. The range of etiological factors for this condition includes eyeball hypotonia, posterior scleritis, intracranial hypertension, tumor and inflammatory diseases of the orbit. The pathogenesis of chorioretinal folds is determined by mechanical displacement or thickening of the vasculature, sclera thickening and changes in its contour, as well as edema of the optic nerve coats. We present a clinical case of a 45-year-old female patient with acute hyperopia and chorioretinal folds, focusing on the clinical and instrumental algorithm of differential diagnostics of the causes of this condition.
Ocular surface changes in allergic blepharoconjunctivitis and dry eye syndrome: diagnosis and therapy possibilities
Authors: Sakhnov S. N. , Yanchenko S. V. , Malyshev A. V. , Teshaev Sh. J. , Odilov M. Yu. , Odilova G. R.
Published: March 2024

Purpose: to evaluate the ocular surface changes (OSC) in seasonal and chronic allergic blepharoconjunctivitis (ABC) under dry eye (DE) conditions and to consider therapeutic possibilities.

Materials and methods. 60 patients with seasonal ABC and mild DE syndrome (group 1) and 50 patients with chronic ABC and moderate DE syndrome (group 2) were tested for lipid deficiency (LD; negative lipid-interference test), aqua-deficiency (AD; inferior tear meniscus height < 250 ﬁm), and mucose deficiency (Bijsterveld`s xerosis index > 3 scores; XI, scores), Ocular surface disease index (OSDI), tear film break-up time (TBUT, seconds), meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) according to Korb, taking into account the proportion of MGD (%) and its severity (MGDS, scores), and the “lid-wiper” symptom (LWS, scores) Statistics: M ± s; Mann — Whitney U-test; differences were statistically significant at p < 0.05.

Results. LD was diagnosed in 65% of the 1st group patients (OSDI 32.3 ± 4.2, TBUT 6.5 ± 0.6, TMH 363.4 ± 43.96, XI 2.1 ± 0.4, MGD

proportion — 41.02 %, LWS 1.1 ± 0.2). LD and MD were detected in 35 % of 1st group patients (OSDI 41.3 ± 5.7, TBUT 5.7 ± 0.5, TMH 332.9 ± 29.9, XI 4.2 ± 0.7, MGD proportion — 61.9 %, LWS 1.24 ± 0.4). The differences in OSDI, TBUT and XI values between DE patients with LD and DE patients with LD and MD were statistically significant. LD and AD were diagnosed in 48 % of 2nd group (OSDI 48.5 ± 6.4, TBUT 5.5 ± 0.6, TMH 192.3 ± 20.8, XI 2.5 ± 0.5, MGDS 1.8 ± 0.4, LWS 1.9 ± 0.3). LD, AD and MD were detected in 52 % of the 2nd group patients (OSDI 57.5 ± 5.8, TBUT 4.6 ± 0.6, TMH 177.7 ± 16.9, XI 5.5 ± 0.6, MGD-S 2.2 ± 0.4, LWS 2.3 ± 0.4). The differences in OSDI, TBUT and XI values between DE patients with LD-AD combination and DE patients with LD-AD-MD were statistically significant.

Conclusion. OSC included lipid deficiency (65 %) and lipid-mucose deficiency (35 %) in S-ABC patients; OSC were represented by lipid-aqua-deficiency (48 %) and lipid-aqua-mucose-deficiency (52 %) in C-ABC patients. In our opinion, the diagnostics of these clinical variants of OSP diagnosis, opens up opportunities for differentiated tear replacement therapy. MGD was diagnosed in one half of S-ABC patients and in all C-ABC patients, which we believe determines another possible therapy direction — eyelid therapeutic hygiene aimed at MGD relieving and lipid deficiency compensation.
Effect of Antibacterial Brine on Quality and Microbiological Safety of Meat Products
Authors: Danilov Mikhail , Leskova Svetlana , Purbuev Aldar , Pavlova Svetlana , Zabalueva Yuliya
Published: March 2024

Nomad livestock farming is an extra raw material resource for regions with harsh climate. Foods based on meat of indigenous animals expand the range of products with high consumer properties. The quality and safety of meat products usually depend on the brine. The present research featured the effect of brine with Island moss (Cetrária islándica (L.) Ach.) on the sensory profile and microbiological safety of meat products.

The study involved meat of two-year-old indigenous cows, as well as multicomponent antibacterial and standard extrusion brines. The brine was injected with a syringe-injector with a hollow perforated needle at a 20 mm pitch. The tenderization took place in a universal express tenderizer with a rotation speed of 16 rpm and lasted for 10 h. The shelf-life was determined based the on microbiological, chemical, and sensory indicators.

By the end of the reserve shelf-life, the total microbial count was 1.2×103 CFU/g in the control and 1.0×103 CFU/g in the experimental sample. No opportunistic pathogenic bacteria or microorganisms were detected. No opportunistic pathogenic microorganisms were revealed when the microbiological parameters were studied in standard quantities and in quantities increased by an order of magnitude.

The changes in acid and peroxide numbers during storage indicated a stable oxidation of the fat component in the experimental sample. Its sensory evaluation exceeded the control sample by 0.9 points in terms color, texture, and smell. The meat marinated with C. islándica compiled with the quality standard and had a shelf-life which exceeded that of the traditionally-marinated meat by 5 days.
Express Diagnostics of Bankruptcy Risks Based on a Selective-Indicative Model
Authors: Chernichenko Svetlana , Kotov Roman
Published: March 2024

Effective bankruptcy risk diagnostics may prevent a financial crisis in Russia’s national economy. The article introduces a novel express tool for bankruptcy diagnostics based on early recognition of alert signs, crisis fields, and preliminary pre-crisis assessment. The tool is a selective-indicative model with regional and industrial specifications.

Regional and industrial exhibitors served as benchmark indicators. The empirical material included statistics, reference materials, and financial reports from agricultural organizations in the period of external economic shocks (2014–2022), Kemerovo region, Russia.

First, the alert signals of bankruptcy risk were identified based on 22 original methods of financial crisis forecasting. After that, they were assessed for practical popularity. The identified default risk signals were linked to the existing criteria of financial insolvency, subjected to economic interpretation, and classified. After fixing the analytical reference vectors, the authors identified the share of each indicator. By determining the latest results of model exponents, they ensured the direction of analytical reference vectors to maximize the disabled function. The next stage involved systematization and synthesis of alert signals into a diagnostic model to be developed into a gradation indicator. After fixing the signal analytical base, the model was tested to formulate conclusions about its adaptability in the current economy.

The resulting model relied on the share of each alert signal of bankruptcy risk in the rating number. It may improve the quality of predictive diagnostics. As the model needs few exponents, it provides a high-speed crisis analysis.
Vaporizing Foil Actuator Welding Arc Problems and Precautions
Authors: Önder Ganime Tuğba , Külekci Mustafa Kemal
Published: March 2024

The management of the "arc" has an important place in welding methods made with electric discharge and in cases where the arc is not managed correctly, important technical and environmental problems may occur. Vaporizing foil actuator welding (VFAW) is a novel welding method developed particularly for joining metals and operates on the principle of electrical discharge. This study describes the welding prototype of vaporized foil actuator welding and outlines technical changes made during the increase in energy levels. The locations, causes, preventive interventions, and solution proposals for arc problems occurring during the welding process are addressed. Welding operations must be carried out safely and comprehensively. Alongside the welding method, potential safety issues should be identified. Necessary precautions must be taken before, during, and after welding. The safety of the welding method can be ensured by eliminating specific risks.
Heavy metal profile with health risk peculiarities in Enugu State and their long-term challenges in drinking water
Authors: Ichu Bright Chigozie , Nwogu Nwanyinnaya Akuagwu , Opara Alexander Iheanyichukwu , Agulanna Albert Chibuzo , Udoka Nkwoada Amarachi
Published: March 2024

Health authorities are particularly concerned about water security in Enugu, southeast Nigeria and heavy metal (HM) pollution. The HM profiles of 51 samples collected from 17 different commercial bottled water brands in Enugu were examined using an flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn had mean values of 0.15 ± 0.03, 0.03 ± 0.02, 0.16 ± 0.03, 0.13 ± 0.02, and 0.02 ± 0.01 mg/L, respectively. The highest levels of Pb2+ were 0.27 mg/L in Exalté, Ni2+ 0.26 mg/L in Jasmine, Cd2+ 0.36 mg/L in Ezbon, Cr3+ 0.07 mg/L in Trinity, Cu2+ 0.04 mg/L in Bigi, and Zn2+ 0.02 mg/L in Aquarapha. The amounts of Cr, Cu, and Zn were below the allowable limits; nevertheless, the Pb content in eight bottled water samples exceeded both the Nigerian and World Health Organization (WHO)/U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) permissible limits. The Cd2+ and Ni2+ levels in the 11th and 4th bottled water samples were above the WHO/USEPA-approved limits. Statistical evaluation revealed significant differences in the amounts of HM ions in the samples (p < 0.05). The findings indicated that concentration levels of Cd2+ Ni2+, and Pb2+ pose a public health concern that needs to be addressed due to potential risk to consumer health.
Revisiting Waist Circumference: A Hypertension Risk Factor that
Requires a More In-depth Understanding
Authors: Su Yue , Sun Jin-yu , Su Zhen-yang , Sun Wei
Published: March 2024

As a major cause of various cardiovascular diseases, the prevalence of hypertension
has been increasing in the past 30 years, leading to significant socioeconomic and health burdens.
Obesity is one of the major risk factors for hypertension. Body mass index (BMI) is the
most used anthropometric index to measure obesity in clinical practice and to assess the risk of
obesity-related diseases. However, obesity is a heterogeneous disease, and the accumulation of
fat in different body regions leads to differences in cardiovascular and metabolic risks. BMI only
reflects the overall obesity but does not consider the distribution of fat and muscle mass. The
limitation of BMI makes it insufficient to assess the risk of hypertension attributed to obesity. In
addition, waist circumference is an easily obtainable anthropometric index to evaluate abdominal
fat distribution. High waist circumference is an independent risk factor for various cardiovascular
diseases and all-cause mortality regardless of BMI. Preliminary data indicate that
waist circumference is significantly associated with the risk of hypertension at different BMI
levels. However, routine measurement of waist circumference is currently not required in current
clinical guidelines or is only recommended for obese populations, indicating an insufficient
understanding of waist circumference. In this review, we summarize the measurement methods
and diagnostic thresholds of waist circumference for abdominal obesity, the trend of central
obesity prevalence, the superiority of waist circumference over other anthropometric indices,
and recent cross-sectional and longitudinal studies on the association between obesity and hypertension.
The Association of Body Composition Parameters Measured by Computed
Tomography with Cancer Stage, Prognosis, and Survival in Patients with Renal
Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gur Ozcan Seray Gizem , Barali Deniz , Erkan Anil
Published: March 2024

Objective::

This study aims to investigate the association of preoperative body composition parameters, measured by computed tomography in patients
undergoing surgery for renal cell carcinoma, with its stage and to survey the relationship with postoperative hospitalization duration and survival.

Methods::

Demographic data, pathology results, cancer stages, and hospitalization duration of 104 patients undergoing surgery at the urology clinic due to
renal cell carcinoma between 2019 and 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. On computed tomography scans acquired during diagnosis, visceral
adipose tissue, subcutaneous adipose tissue, total adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle area were measured. The ratios of body composition
parameters were computed.

Results::

When the correlation between survival time and body composition in deceased patients was analysed, a moderate but significant correlation was
observed between skeletal muscle area value and total adipose tissue / skeletal muscle area ratio (r=0.630, p=0.001; r=0.598, p=0.002). A
significant and strong correlation was observed between total adipose tissue value and survival (r=0.704, p<0.001). Subcutaneous adipose tissue /
skeletal muscle area was found to be an independent risk factor associated with mortality, and a ratio of 0.98 or less increased the mortality risk
approximately 16-fold.

Conclusion::

The relationship between body composition parameters measured by computed tomography, which can be easily evaluated pre-treatment, and
mortality, postoperative recovery and length of hospital stay can be evaluated, giving clinicians an idea about the potential difficulties that patients
may encounter during the treatment process. For this purpose, the subcutaneous adipose tissue / skeletal muscle area ratio is the most helpful
parameter that can be used.