bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory evaluation of recycled asphalt pavement and engineered polymer binder for small airfield repairs
Authors: Carruth William , Floyd Webster , Tingle Jeb
Published: June 2024

Conducting small asphalt repairs on airfields in remote locations can be technically and logistically challenging. An alternative to cold patch products is using an engineered polymer binder (EPB) mixed with recycled asphalt pavement (RAP). This paper presents the results of a laboratory evaluation of EPB with both wet and dry RAP. Compacted specimens were tested for rut resistance, indirect tensile strength (ITS), and Cantabro mass loss (ML). The results indicate that RAP mixed with EPB exhibited substantial rut resistance with ITS and ML similar to that of conventional dense-graded asphalt. Overall, the EPB and RAP blend appears to be a promising alternative for airfield repairs.
Mеsozoic Tectonothermal Evolution of the Zagan Metamorphic Core Complex in Western Transbaikalia: 40Ar/39Ar and FTA Dating
Authors: Buslov Mikhail M. , Kulikova Anna V. , Sklyarov Evgenii V. , Travin Alexei V.
Published: June 2024

A model of tectonothermal evolution of the Zagan metamorphic core complex (MCC) based on the new data from 40Ar/39Ar dating of amphibole, mica, and apatite fission-track dating is discussed. A relationship with the long-range impact of processes from the collision of the North China (Amurian–North China) block with the Siberian continent in the Mesozoic era is proposed. The Zagan MСС was formed in the Cretaceous period on the southern flank of a high mountain uplift of Western Transbaikalia, composed of late Paleozoic granitoids of the Angara–Vitim batholith. According to 40Ar/39Ar dating of amphiboles and micas from the mylonite zone, the active development time of the Zagan MCC corresponds to the early Cretaceous epoch (131, 114 Ma). The tectonic exposure of the core from about 15 km to the depths of about 10 km occurred at a rate of tectonic erosion of 0.4–0.3 mm/year as a result of post-collisional extension of the Mongol–Okhotsk orogen. Apatite fission-track dating shows that further exhumation and cooling of the rocks to about 3 km occurred in the lower-upper Cretaceous epoch (112, 87 Ma). The erosional denudation rate was about 0.3 mm/year.MCC- metamorphic core complexes, AFT- apatite fission-track
Pelatihan Pemanfaatan Limbah Rumah Tangga untuk Penanaman Sayuran dan Mikroorganisme Lokal (Mol) sebagai Ketahanan Pangan Keluarga
Authors: Rini Aditya , Anis Widyastuti  , Devi Laely Wahyu Utami  , Eryna Yulianaristin  , Ilham Esa Tiffani  , Mala Mazida  , Nofia Sholihatuzzahroh  , Rida Khoirin Nisa  , Siti Ita Rahmawati  , Vika Lailatul Izzah  , Agnita Siska Pramasdyahsari
Published: June 2024

The aim of this community service is to encourage people to use household waste to plant vegetables and local microorganisms for food security for families and communities and to make planting media in the form of pots. The method of service is the community service method. The approach to implementing this service is asset or resource-based community empowerment. Data collection techniques use documentation, questionnaires and focus group discussions. Data analysis in this service is qualitative descriptive data analysis. The result of this service is that activities are carried out in three stages, namely the first is socialization related to the use of unused materials to make something useful, namely socialization on the manufacture and use of local microorganisms and making pots, the second is training in making and the third is monitoring and also evaluation. The activity was carried out by making planting media in the form of pots with gallons and used aqua bottles, then continuing with making fertilizer using stale rice, namely local microorganisms (MOL), then continuing with planting vegetables.
More Biosurfactants and Fewer Synthetic Surfactants to Improve Alkali-Surfactant-Polymer Flooding: Feasibility Study and Large-Scale Field Application
Authors: Dong Yeliang , Liu Dexin , Fan Yu
Published: June 2024

Alkali-surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding has achieved highly enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in the Daqing Oil Field; however, there are concerns about synthetic surfactants owing to their high cost and difficulty in biodegradation. Cheap biosurfactants conform to human concepts of green circular economy; however, known biosurfactants, as well as their mixtures with alkali, cannot reduce water/oil interfacial tension (IFT) to ultralow values below 0.01 mN/m, which is necessary for ASP flooding to effectively mobilize residual oil. Therefore, we investigate the feasibility of partially replacing synthetic surfactants with biosurfactants rather than completely replacing them to improve ASP flooding. First, through a series of IFT tests, a blend of rhamnolipids (RLs) and alkylbenzene sulfonate (ABS) in a 1:1 mass ratio is determined to be the optimal mixed surfactant and labeled RL/ABS-opt. Second, the interfacial activities, phase behaviors, and wettability alteration capabilities of ASP solutions with RL/ABS-opt are studied. Then, 1.0 wt% NaOH and 0.2 wt% RL/ABS-opt are determined to construct a new ASP system. Subsequently, the waterflooded cores are displaced using the new and the classical ASP systems. Based on the promising experimental results, the new ASP system floods a test block of 56 wells for 3 years. The EOR and surfactant costs are calculated to determine the technical and economic effects. Finally, the concentrations of surfactants before and after activated sludge treatment (AST) are tested by spectrophotometry to verify the biodegradability of RLs better than that of ABS. The laboratory and field results indicate that more biosurfactants and fewer synthetic surfactants could improve ASP flooding to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective with a higher EOR.
The Flooding of Lagash: Evidence for Urban Destruction under Lugalzagesi, the King of Uruk
Authors: Goodman Reed , Giosan Liviu , Shen Zhixiong , Lang Andreas , Zimmerman Paul , Constantinescu Stefan , Pizzimenti Sara , Alrawi Zaid , Pittman Holly
Published: June 2024

New research at Tell al-Hiba, ancient Lagash, has revealed evidence of significant flooding and widespread destruction in the Mesopotamian city during the Early Dynastic period. We identify and date a prominent water-formed feature that cut through its primary temple district. Geoarchaeological trenching and geophysical prospection indicate that an upstream river avulsion led to rapid fluvial sedimentation within the settlement. Further analysis of archaeological data, including newly reported radiocarbon dates, suggests that this environmental crisis occurred during or shortly after Lagash was attacked by Lugalzagesi, king of Uruk. This study therefore also contributes to an improved chronometry of 3rd-millennium BC Mesopotamia.
Evaluating the efficacy of vatiquinone in preclinical models of mitochondrial disease
Authors: Kayser Ernst-Bernhard , Chen Yihan , Mulholland Michael , Truong Vivian , James Katerina , Hanaford Allison , Johnson Simon
Published: June 2024

Background
Genetic mitochondrial diseases are a major challenge in modern medicine, impacting around 1:4,000 individuals. Leigh syndrome is the most common pediatric presentation of mitochondrial disease. There are currently no effective clinical treatments for mitochondrial disease. In humans, patients are often treated with antioxidants, vitamins, and strategies targeting energetics. The vitamin-E related compound vatiquinone (EPI-743, α-tocotrienol quinone) has been the subject of at least 19 clinical trials in the US since 2012, but the effects of vatiquinone on an animal model of mitochondrial disease have not yet been reported. Here, assessed the impact of vatiquinone on disease progression and in two animal models of mitochondrial disease.
Methods
The efficacy of vatiquinone in vitro was assessed using human fibroblasts treated with the general mitochondrial oxidative stress inducer paraquat, the GPX4 inhibitor RSL3, or the glutathione synthase inhibitor BSO in combination with excess iron. The therapeutic potential of vatiquinone in vivo was assessed using tamoxifen-induced mouse model for GPX4 deficiency and the Ndufs4 knockout mouse model of Leigh syndrome. In both models, animals were treated daily with vatiquinone or vehicle and relevant disease endpoints were assessed.
Results
Vatiquinone robustly prevented death in cultured cells induced by RSL3 or BSO/iron, but had no effect on paraquat induced cell death. Vatiquinone had no impact on disease onset, progression, or survival in either the tamoxifen-inducible GPX4 deficient model or the Ndufs4(-/-) mouse model, though the drug may have reduced seizure risk.
Conclusions
Vatiquinone provided no benefit to survival in two mouse models of disease, but may prevent seizures in the Ndufs4(-/-) model. Our findings are consistent with recent press statements regarding clinical trial results and have implications for drug trial design and reporting in patients with rare diseases.
Influence of process parameters on wear resistance of surfaces modified by friction stirring processing in 7075 aluminum alloy
Authors: Wang JiangTao , Liu Aoxiang , Zhang YongKang , Xie Li , He MingTao , Luo KaiYu , Hu KeJun
Published: June 2024

This work investigated effects of friction stirred processing (FSP) parameters on the wear resistance of 7075 aluminum alloy. The results indicate the significantly higher wear rate and average coefficient of friction during the stabilization stage of samples W1 (welding speed: 60 mm/min; rotation speed: 1000 rpm) and W8 (welding speed: 80 mm/min; rotation speed: 1200 rpm), with increases of 45% and 40% for the wear rate, respectively, and 19% and 13% for coefficient of friction in comparison with the untreated material. The optimized FSP parameters can considerably improve the wear resistance of the material by affecting the heat input, which altered the grain size and distribution in the welded zone. X-Ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy studies provided the mechanism underlying grain size and plastic nano twin structures contributions to wear resistance.
Biocompatible Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles for X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Scott Christian , Miller Sophia , Moenne-Loccoz Pierre , Barnes Craig , Ralle Martina
Published: June 2024

The synthesis of water-soluble nanoparticles is a well-developed field for ferrite-based nanoparticles with the majority consisting of iron oxide or mixed metal iron oxide nanoparticles. However, the synthesis of non-agglomerated non-ferrite metal/metal oxide NPs is not as well established. The synthesis and characterization of uniform 20 nm, biologically compatible cobalt oxide (CoO) nanoparticles (NPs) is described. These nanoparticles have two principle components: 1) a CoO core of suitable size to contain enough cobalt atoms to be visualized by X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) and 2) a robust coating that inhibits NP aggregation as well as renders them water-soluble and biocompatible (i.e. stealth coatings). Stable cobalt oxide NPs are obtained with octadecyl amine coatings as reported by Bhattacharjee. Two strategies for solubilizing these NPs in water were investigated with varying degrees of success. Exchanging the octadecyl amine coating for a nitrodopamine anchored PEG coating yielded the desired water-soluble NPs but in very low yield. Alternately, leaving the octadecyl amine coating on the NP and interdigitating this with a maleic anhydride-vinyl copolymer with different hydrophobic sidechains followed by opening the maleic anhydride ring with amine substituted PEG polymers (the water solubilizing component), yielded the desired water soluble NPS were obtained in good yield. Characterization data for the nanoparticles and the components of the coatings required for bioorthogonal reactions to ligate them with biotargeting agents are also described.
A case report of congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type II with a novel SEC23B mutation and accompanied by a large segmental deletion and literature review
Authors: Liu Fu , Du Chunyan , Liu Wenjun
Published: June 2024

Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia (CDA) is a rare heterogeneous hereditary disorder characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis and morphological abnormalities of erythrocytes and bone marrow erythroblasts. Currently, six types of CDA with different genetic mutations have been identified, with CDAII being the most prevalent. CDA II is an autosomal recessive disorder with the causative gene on the SEC23B gene at 20q11.2. To date, 110 mutations in the SEC23B gene have been reported in CDA II. This paper reports a case of congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type II caused by a new SEC23B mutation and accompanied by a large segmental deletion at the SEC23B gene locus. In addition, we reviewed the diagnostic and therapeutic advances in CADII
Relationships Between Social Media Addiction, Fear of Missing Out Developments and Body Image
Authors: TOÇOĞLU Sinem , DÖNMEZ Ahmet , BAYKARA Cengiz , HEPSERT Sezgin , SARIKABAK Murat , YILDIRIM Yavuz , KORKUTATA Abdulmenaf
Published: June 2024

Aim
The research aimed to reveal the existence of relationships between social media addiction, fear of missing out developments, and body image in student athletes.
Method
A total of 313 student athletes, 133 females and 180 males, enrolled in the sports sciences faculties undergraduate programs of three different state universities, participated in the research in which the relational screening model was adopted. The data was obtained by using the "Personal Information Form", "Social Media Addiction Scale", "Fear of Missing Out in Social Environments Scale" and "Body Appreciation Scale". Data were analyzed by using Pearson correlation and Regression analyses.
Findings: The results obtained in the study showed a negative relationship between social media addiction and body image (p < .05); There is a positive relationship between social media addiction and fear of missing out (p < .05); It was determined that there were negative (p < .05) significant relationships between fear of missing out and body image perception. Moreover, it has been revealed that social media addiction negatively predicted body image (p < .05); fear of missing out positively predicted social media addiction (p < .05); the fear of missing out predicted body image negatively (p < .05).
Conclusion
As a result, it may be possible to state that addiction to social media in student athletes negatively affects their body image, and having the fear of missing out leads to social media addiction and lowers their body image.
Influence of Subtropical Jets on the Equatorial Wave Spectrum: implications for future changes in Kelvin waves and MJO variance
Authors: Bartana Hagar , Garfinkel Chaim , Schwartz Chen , Shamir Ofer , RAO Jian
Published: June 2024

Models from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6), simulate an intensification in equatorial Kelvin Waves (KW) and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) with global warming. In contrast, the power spectrum is projected to weaken for most other wavenumber-frequency combinations, including higher wavenumber Equatorial Rossby waves (ER). The qualitatively different projected response of KW and ER suggest that dynamical forcings have an important role in the physical mechanism of the changes. This hypothesis is tested using targeted simulations of the Model of an Idealised Moist Atmosphere (MiMA) in which we impose perturbations in upper-tropospheric zonal winds that mimic projected end-of-century changes. These simulations demonstrate that future changes in KW and the MJO strongly depend on changes in the South Pacific subtropical jet. A similar dependence is also evident in CMIP6 models. These results have implications for future projections of KW and MJO activity in models with biased subtropical jets.
A novel Green systematic HPLC and UV-Spectroscopic method for the determination of rifaximin in tablet formulation
Authors: Bisoyi Saroj Kanta , Pradhan Debasish , Sahoo sudhir , Mishra Umashankar , Samantaray Adyasa , Behera Bandana
Published: June 2024

A sustainable approach has been devised for quantifying rifaximin in pharmaceutical products, utilizing both spectrophotometric and HPLC methods. In the spectrophotometric technique, accurate measurement of absorbance at 296 nm detection wavelength was conducted by taking water and acetonitrile (1:1) as the solvent. For the HPLC method, a phenomenonex C18 250 x 4.6mm,5µ column was employed, with water and acetonitrile (1:1 v/v) serving as the mobile phase. Isocratic separation elution technique was employed at a rate of 1 mL per minute, with detection of rifaximin at 296 nm. These methods were found to be cost-effective, quick, eco-friendly, and straight forward, giving an analysis of rifaximin in 20 minutes. Application of these methods to pharmaceutical products yielded results free from matrix interference, with statistical comparison showing no significant differences among the techniques. Furthermore, the assessment of greenness conducted using AGREE software highlighted the developed methods' is environmental friendliness, which rely on solvents such as acetonitrile and water. These findings advocate for the adoption of our both analyst- and environmentally-friendly methods for the determination of rifaximin in tablet formulation over presently employed techniques.
Association between Parkinson's disease and cardiovascular disease mortality: A prospective population-based study from NHANES
Authors: Ke Li , Zhao Lei , Xing Wenli
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim
: Previous studies have produced conflicting results on the association between Parkinson's disease (PD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in different populations. Therefore, it is critical to examine the association between PD and CVD mortality specifically in the US population.
Methods
In this cohort investigation, we enrolled 28,242 participants from the NHANES spanning from 2003 to 2018. The 380 cases of PD in the cohort were identified by documenting "ANTIPARKINSON AGENTS" in their reported prescription medications. Mortality outcomes were ascertained by cross-referencing the cohort database with the National Death Index, which was last updated on 31 December 2019. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality was categorised according to the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases using a spectrum of diagnostic codes. Weighted multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to examine the association between PD and the risk of CVD mortality.
Results
Among 28242 adults included in the study (mean age, 60.156 (12.55) years, 13766 men (48.74%) ), median follow-up period was 89 months. Individuals with PD had an adjusted HR of 1.82 (95% CI, 1.24–2.69; p = 0.002) for CVD mortality and 1.84 (95% CI, 1.44–2.33; p < 0.001) for all-cause mortality compared to those without PD. The association between PD and CVD mortality was robust in sensitivity analyses, after excluding participants who died within 2 years of follow-up and those with a history of cancer at baseline (HR,1.82 (95% CI, 1.20–2.75; p = 0.005).
Conclusions
Parkinson's disease was associated with a higher long-term CVD mortality rate in the US population.
Accessibility of Drug Information on Ocular Drug Product Websites in the United States
Authors: Nguyen Cambrey , Villa Kristin
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The internet is a drug information resource for consumers because of ease of use and convenience; however, accessibility for individuals with visual impairment is often not considered. Previous studies found pharmaceutical websites did not meet accessibility standards. This study builds on previous research by evaluating accessibility of prescription ocular drug product websites using two accessibility checkers.
Methods
Twenty ocular medications were initially selected and 11 medications were included in the final analysis because a product website was available. AChecker and WAVE tools were used to evaluate accessibility of each drug product homepage then a screen reader was used to verify accessibility of the websites. Descriptive statistics were used to represent the errors and problems identified by the accessibility checkers.
Results
All websites had varying number of errors and problems based on the WAVE and AChecker tool. Travatan Z® had the highest number of errors of 117 according to WAVE and Durysta™ had the highest of 42 problems based on the AChecker tool. Some of the common issues identified by the screen reader included lack of alternative text for images (e.g., graphs), no description for links, and drop-down menus do not expand using the keyboard functions.
Conclusion
This study highlights the need for manufacturers to improve accessibility of their product websites. Due to the lack of accessible content on these websites, it is prudent for pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to provide education through verbal counseling and providing auditory resources or recordings of drug information as an alternative format.
Senescence-related genomic signature reflecting epicardial adipose tissue and immune infiltration associated with diagnosis and treatment outcomes after myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhang Ruiying , Wang Yuchao , Lang Yuheng , Zheng Yue
Published: June 2024

Background After coronary artery disease (CAD)-related myocardial injury, reactivation of the epicardium results in cardiac remodeling via paracrine secretion. Cellular senescence is characterized by stable cell cycle arrest correlated with typical morphological cellular changes and a unique secretome called senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). However, the senescence-related genomic signature that reflects epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and immune infiltration is not well understood.Methods Adipocyte-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in EAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) from patients with and without CAD. Immune cells and senescence-related DEGs in EATs were identified, and the enrichment pathways were analyzed. A protein-protein interaction network was used to determine the hub genes. To validate these genes, a Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset investigation and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of human sub-epicardial adipose samples were performed.Results Thirty-five up-regulated and 122 down-regulated DEGs were obtained between the EAT of patients with and without CAD. In patients with CAD, 222 up-regulated and 188 down-regulated DEGs were obtained between the EAT and SAT. A Venn diagram was used to obtain 82 senescence-related DEGs, and the top 15-degree hub genes were explored. After validating using the GEO datasets and human sub-epicardial adipose samples, STAT3, SERPINE1, CDKN2A, DLG4, PTGS2, MDM2, LRP1, IRS2, PRKCD, CCND2, and CISH were found to be significantly expressed in the group with severe CAD.Conclusion In this study, a bioinformatics analysis was conducted to determine whether senescence-related DEGs in human sub-epicardial adipose tissue could be used to predict myocardial infarction progression. These screened SASP hub genes may be biomarkers for the prediction of and therapeutic targets for the prognosis of MI progression.
Value of Nomogram Model for Sarcopenia in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Based on Ultrasound and Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Wang Dingyue , Yu Yana , Zhang Gaosen , Zhang Zhen
Published: June 2024

Background To assess muscle mass and function in older adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using ultrasound (US) and shear wave elastography (SWE), as well as identify independent variables associated with sarcopenia in T2DM patients and develop a comprehensive diagnostic model.
Methods Clinical indicators of all patients were collected.US image indicators such as muscle thickness, muscle bundle length, and pinnate angle of the dominant side of the gastrocnemius were measured in the relaxed state. Furthermore, Young's modulus of the gastrocnemius was measured using SWE. We assessed the correlation between clinical indicators and US measurements as well as Young's modulus values. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed on clinical characteristics along with US and SWE measurements to identify independent variables. Based on these independent variables, a nomogram diagnosis model was constructed.
Results A total of 106 subjects were enrolled in this cohort, and they were divided into the sarcopenia group (n=47, age 66.96±5.71 years, male 45.8%) and the non-sarcopenia group (n=59, age 62.86±4.86 years, male 68.1%), based on the consensus of the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS). The mean age of patients with sarcopenia was significantly higher than that of patients without sarcopenia (p<0.001). There were significant gender and BMI differences between the two groups (p<0.05). Patients with sarcopenia exhibited lower ASMI, grip strength, muscle thickness, pinnate angle, and Young's modulus in a relaxed state compared to those without sarcopenia (p<0.05). ASMI showed positive correlations with thickness of the medial head of gastrocnemius muscle (r=0.339, p<0.001), pinnate angle (r=0.222, p<0.05), and Young's modulus in a relaxed state (r=0.321, p<0 .001). Grip strength demonstrated a positive correlation with Young's modulus in a relaxed state (r=0.214, p<0.05). A nomogram prediction model was developed by integrating multivariate analysis results. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test indicated that this nomogram model had good fit (2 =3.297, p =0.914). Calibration curve revealed that predicted probability from this nomogram model closely approximated actual probability for sarcopenia (error=0.036). The area under ROC curve(AUC)of this model was 0.882 (95%CI:0.820-0.945), which outperformed individual factors when applied alone. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated as 0.894 and 0.790 respectively, demonstrating good discrimination.
Conclusion In older adults with T2DM, sarcopenia is associated with reduced thickness, pinnate angle, and elasticity of the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle compared to non-sarcopenic patients. The combination of US and SWE model demonstrates high sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic efficacy in identifying sarcopenia in older adults with T2DM.
A Simple Method for Fabrication of Hybrid Electrodes of Supercapacitors
Authors: Qashqay Samaneh Mahmoudi , Meymian Mohammad-Reza Zamani , Maleki Ali
Published: June 2024

The increasing need for electrode materials exhibiting improved performance to meet the requirements of supercapacitors is on the rise. Hybrid electrodes, which combine reduced graphene (RGO) oxide with transition metal-based oxides such as cobalt oxide (CoO), have emerged as promising materials due to their impressive specific capacitance and cost-effectiveness, attributed to their synergistic properties. In the present study, a binder-free RGOCoO composite electrode was synthesized using a facile, fast, and simple one-step co-precipitation method. This was done to improve stability for supercapacitor applications. The synthesized composite materials underwent comprehensive characterization utilizing various surface analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. Electrochemical measurements of the fabricated hybrid revealed at current density of 2 A cm− 2 a specific capacitance of 132.3 mF cm− 2, with an impressive 95.91% retention of capacitance after 7000 cycles. The results from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) highlighted a meager low relaxation time constant of 0.53 s for the electrode. The reason behind this can be linked to the synergistic interactions, and minimal charge transfer resistance exhibited by the porous electrode without binders. The innovative simple synthesis of a binder-free RGOCoO composite electrode represents a significant advancement in the development of high-efficiency supercapacitors for diverse large-scale applications.
The prevalence of frailty according to kidney function and its association with cognitive impairment, nutritional status, and clinical outcome
Authors: Yang Tae-Won , Kang YooMee , Kim Do-Hyung , Kim Young-Soo , Kwon Oh-Young , Lee Tae Won , Park Dong Jun , Bae Eunjin
Published: June 2024

Background
Frailty is a state of vulnerability to poor homeostatic resolution of after a stressful event. The prevalence of frailty in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is more common than in the general population. Frailty is associated with a poor clinical prognosis, malnutrition, and cognitive impairment; however, studies on these factors in patients with CKD are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between CKD and frailty, nutritional status, and cognitive impairment and their influence on clinical outcomes.
Methods
We prospectively enrolled participants from June 2019 to December 2020 and divided them into three CKD groups according to kidney function (non-CKD, CKD stage 3–4, and CKD stage 5D). Clinical outcomes were defined as the composite outcomes of all-cause death, hospitalization, and cardiovascular outcomes, including nonfatal myocardial infarction, revascularization, or stroke. To calculate the relative risk of frailty, cognitive impairment, nutritional status, and clinical outcome, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression analysis.
Result
A total of 88 patients were included, of whom 30.7% had frailty and 17.0% had cognitive impairment. In the CKD stage 5D group, the prevalence of frailty (56.7%, n = 17) was significantly higher, and the nutritional quotient score was lower in the other groups. The Korean-Montreal Cognitive Assessment score was significantly lower in the CKD stage 5D group; however, cognitive impairment did not differ among the three groups. Frailty was significantly associated with cognitive impairment and CKD stage 5D group. Cognitive impairment was significantly associated with older age and higher BMI. Well-nourished status was significantly associated with BMI and CKD stage 5D group. Patients in the CKD 5D group were significantly more likely to have adverse clinical outcomes.
Conclusions
The prevalence of frailty increased significantly as the CKD stage progressed. Particularly, CKD stage 5D group correlated with frailty and nutritional status, leading to poor clinical outcomes.
Evaluation of the plasma oxylipin and endocannabinoid profile and the platelet and plasma proteome in postpartum dairy cows experiencing elevated systemic inflammation
Authors: Grantz Jillian M. , Thirumalaikumar Venkatesh P. , Jannasch Amber H. , Andolino Chaylen , Taechachokevivat Natnicha , Avila-Granados Lisa M. , Neves Rafael C.
Published: June 2024

Unregulated, systemic inflammation negatively impacts health and production in dairy cows. Soluble mediators and platelets have been studied for their expansive role in mediating inflammation. Our objectives were to compare the plasma oxylipin and endocannabinoid profiles, and the platelet and plasma proteomic profiles of healthy cows to cows suffering from elevated systemic inflammation as indicated by plasma haptoglobin (Hp) concentrations. Postpartum cows at 3 DIM with plasma Hp concentrations \(\ge\) 0.50 g/L and no clinical disease were enrolled into the high-inflammation group (n = 8). Cows with plasma Hp concentrations \(\le\) 0.1 g/L and no clinical disease were enrolled into the low-inflammation group (n = 8). Targeted lipidomic analysis revealed differences in the plasma oxylipin and endocannabinoid profile between high- and low-inflammation cows. Cows in the high-inflammation group had increased concentrations of the oxylipins 9(S)-HpOTrE, 9(S)-HOTrE, 13(S)-HpOTrE, and 9,10-EpOME, and the endocannabinoid anandamide, in plasma. In-depth proteomic analysis of platelets between the high- and low-inflammation groups revealed significant differences in protein categories related to platelet granule release and cellular iron uptake. Proteomic outputs from plasma revealed 24 proteins to be different between high and low-inflamed groups, including proteins involved in autophagy and immune mediation. Together, our results indicate that cows suffering from an exacerbated systemic inflammatory response in the postpartum may have impaired disease resistance, and platelets could contributors to their inflammatory state.
Revealing the larval anatomy of the hoverfly Sphaerophoria rueppellii (Wiedemann, 1820) (Diptera, Syrphidae) using micro-computed tomography
Authors: Alba-Tercedor Javier , Marcos-García Maria Angeles
Published: June 2024

Traditionally, the study of anatomy in insects has been based on dissection techniques. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is an X-ray-based technique that allows visualization of the internal anatomy of insects in situ and does not require dissections. We report the use of micro-CT scans to study, in detail, the external and internal structures and organs of the third instar larva of the dipteran Syrphidae Sphaerophoria rueppellii, a Palaearctic species included in the list of effective agents used in European biocontrol programs against aphids. Detailed images and videos provided evidence of external morphological characters and an overview of the internal anatomy (musculature, digestive tube, salivary glands, Malpighian tubules, fat bodies, circulatory system, nervous system, cefalofaringeal complex, tentorium, and mouth parts). The study evidenced the following: an external lateroventral complex of muscles that form authentic muscular rings that allow the compression of the body segments in a similar functional way as occurs in annelid worms; the existence of mandibles with prosthecae; the nervous system present a conspicuous distinguishable suboesophageal ganglion; the so-called antennomaxillary organs are the antennae; the maxillae are separate structures, with an articulated maxillary palpus; S. rueppellii has only one pair of Malpighian tubules instead of the two pairs that were thought to be the general rule for Syrphid larvae; and the evidence of an imaginal disc of genitalia in the posterior part of the body, below the rectum, which in male larvae has a clear correspondence with the morphology of the external male genitalia, which allows to differentiate the sexes in the larval stage. This study is the first complete micro-CT reconstruction of the anatomy of a dipteran larva and constitutes a true anatomical atlas of the third instar larvae of S. rueppellii. High-quality rendered images and additional supplementary videos together with a 3D model, suitable for use with mobile devices, are useful tools for future research and as teaching aids.
Clearing the Air: A Multi-Objective Approach to Industrial Air Pollution Prediction with Bi-Directional Stacked LSTM Model
Authors: Chatterjee Kalyan , Re Mandadi Sriya , Thara Machakanti Navya , Kumar Samla Suraj , Reddy Tummala Abhinav Vardhan , Priyadharshini M. , Mallik Saurav , Li Aimin
Published: June 2024

Industrial air pollution stands out as a pressing contemporary issue. Prolonged exposure to air pollutants significantly threatens public health, leading to severe respiratory and lung disorders. Currently, the regulations governing the monitoring and control of industrial pollution lack the necessary stringency. Therefore, this study encompasses parameters related to ambient air and stack emissions 1 from industries namely: Clearing the Air: A M ulti-Objective Approach to Industrial Air Pollution Prediction with Bi-Directional Stacked LSTM Model by employing Multi-Objective Bi-directional Stacked LSTM Model (MOBiLe). This study aims to predict emission rates and conducted a comparative analysis among the state-of-art models. The accuracy of the MOBiLe model is assessed by measuring the Mean Square Error and and Validation Mean Absolute Error. Notably, the MOBiLe model exhibited the lowest error among all state-of-art models at 30%, 40%, 45%, 50%, and 60%, respectively. Subsequently, air dispersion model like Gaussian Dispersion Model are utilized on the forecasted emission rates to assess the spreading of air pollutant concentrations originating from the source, specifically at the stack level.
Survival of HIV associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and Burkitt lymphoma in China: a 17-year retrospective study
Authors: Xiong Yu , Liu Weicheng , Chen Xiaoping , Mo Pingzheng , Xiong Yong , Deng Liping , Zhang Yongxi
Published: June 2024

Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has improved outcomes for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) associated non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This is an analysis of 127 patients with HIV with Burkitt lymphoma (HIV-BL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (HIV-DLBCL) treated in China over a 17-year period during the cART and rituximab era. The median CD4 count for the cohorts was 0.141×109/L (range, 0.001–0.861×109/L). DA-EPOCH ± R (54%) were most commonly used in HIV-BL. CHOP ± R (42%) was most commonly used to treat HIV-DLBCL. The complete response rate after first-line curative therapy was 10/28 (36%) in HIV-BL and 25/57 (44%) in HIV-DLBCL. The 2-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the HIV-BL cohort was 50% and 41% respectively. The 2-year PFS and OS for the HIV-DLBCL cohort was 55% and 47% respectively. Current China practice favours the treatment of HIV-BL and HIV-DLBCL similarly to the HIV-negative population with the use of concurrent cART. However, due to the extremely low percentage of patients receiving cART prior to the lymphoma diagnosis, the high percentage of patients with poor performance status, and the advanced stage at diagnosis, the treatment of HIV-related lymphoma remains the major challenge in China.
Gastrodin prevents myocardial injury in sleep-deprived mice by suppressing ferroptosis through SIRT6
Authors: Wu Yi , Miao Yuping , Cao Yin , Gong Zipeng
Published: June 2024

Gastrodin (GAS), a bioactive compound derived from the orchid plant Gastrodia elata, exhibits numerous pharmacological effects. However, its effect on sleep deprivation (SD)-induced cardiac injury and the mechanisms are unknown. This study established SD mice model using a modified multiple platform water method and induced ferroptosis model in H9C2 cells using Erastin. The heart rate of mice was measured, and myocardial and mitochondrial structures were visualized using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Myocardial injury, oxidative stress indicators and, Fe2+ levels were detected by the kit method. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected by immunofluorescence, and SIRT6 and ferroptosis-associated protein expression levels were detected by Western blot. Reduced heart rate and abnormalities in myocardial tissue and mitochondrial structure were ameliorated in the SD group of mice after GAS treatment. GAS treatment reduced ROS levels in Erastin-induced H9c2 cells. GAS treatment reduced atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MAD), and Fe2+ levels, and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels in the SD and Erastin groups. Western blot showed that GAS treatment increased the expression of sirtuin 6 (SIRT6), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and decreased the expression of P53 in SD and Erastin groups. The SIRT6 inhibitor OSS_128167 (OSS) reversed GAS treatment of Erastin-induced ferroptosis in H9C2 cells. These observations propose that GAS prevents myocardial injury in sleep-deprived mice by suppressing ferroptosis through SIRT6.
Factors Influencing The Experiences of End-users in Password-Based Authentication System
Authors: Ugwu Celestine , Ukwandu Elochukwu , Ofusori Lizzy , Ezugwu Assumpta , Ome Uchenna , Ezema Modesta , Ndunagu Juliana
Published: June 2024

Issues relating to password-based authentication has led to calls to an alternative in passwordless authentication. This call represents a comprehensive drift from password-based authentication irrespective of the introduction of multi-factor authentication, single sign-on and so on that are meant to strengthen the security of password-based authentication systems. As password-based authentication remains the most popular way of making sure end-users of computer, digital and information technology systems have authorised access to their valued assets and resources. The understanding of factors responsible for issues associated with password-based authentication continues to drive researchers and developers’ interests. This paper is a follow-up to an initial effort in understanding the experiences of end-users in password-based authentication. This study used questionnaire-based design administered online through Google form in eliciting information from end-users that will help in determining how much factors like password hygiene culture, use of password management tools, economic and social status of end-users and so on contribute to their password experience. A total of 193 respondents were used in analysis and the result provide factors that contribute and those that do not contribute to the experiences of end-users in their use of password-based authentication systems. The result of this study will go a long way in strengthening the design, deployment and utilisation of password-based authentication.
Rigid vegetation affects slope flow velocity
Authors: Cai Zekang , Xie Jiabo , Chen Yuchi , Yang Yushuo , Wang Chenfeng , Wang Jian
Published: June 2024

The mean slope flow velocity is critical in soil erosion models but the mechanism of its variation under rigid vegetation cover remains unclear. On natural slopes, vegetation grows predominantly perpendicular to the horizontal plane (BH), with some growing perpendicularly to the slope surface (BS); however, current research often neglects the effects of these two growth directions on the mean flow velocity. We conducted simulation experiments using different coverage levels, rigid vegetation, slope angles, and flow rates and showed that the flow rate and slope significantly influenced the mean flow velocity. As the coverage of rigid vegetation increased, the mean flow velocity increased more under conditions perpendicular to the horizontal plane (BH) and those perpendicular to the slope (BS). A model for predicting mean flow velocity was developed using vegetation equivalent roughness and the Manning formula, which accurately predicted flow velocity in different conditions. This study contributes to the refinement of slope flow theory and provides data that supports soil and water conservation efforts.
Defining the relationship between clinician-preferred ECOG performance status and patient-reported health-related quality of life scores in men with metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer
Authors: Nnabugwu Ikenna I , Obikeze Eric N. , Nnabugwu Chinwe A , Anyimba Solomon K , Amu Okwudili C , Mbadiwe Okezie M , Echetabu Kevin S N , Okoronkwo Ijeoma L
Published: June 2024

Background
Performance status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are important parameters in the management of metastatic prostate cancer. The clinician-preferred Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) may not relate with the patient-described HRQoL because the later puts into consideration some aspects of health that are not captured by the former. The aim of this study is to define the relationship between clinician-preferred ECOG-PS and the patient-determined HRQoL in men with metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer (mPCa).
Methods
An analytical cross-sectional study recruiting patients presenting with mPCa in Enugu, southeast Nigeria. Two clinicians agreed on an ECOG-PS score for each study participant who in turn completed the FACT-P and the EQ-5D-5L questionnaires with interviewer-assistance where necessary. Other medical information was retrieved from the records. ANOVA and chi-square tests were used to compare available data across ECOG-PS preferences and ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the FACT-P questionnaire items that related significantly with the ECOG-PS preferences.
Results
Of the 224 participants (mean age: 70.62 ± 7.34), about 60.7% had ≥ 12years of formal education and 84.9% had ISUP grade ≥ 3 cancer. In all, 22.8%, 55.8%, 21.0% and 0.4% were ECOG-PS 1, ECOG-PS 2, ECOG-PS 3 and ECOG-PS 4 respectively while the mean FACT-P score, EQ-HVI and EQ-VAS score were 80.18 ± 17.56, 0.524 ± 0.324 and 60.43 ± 9.91% respectively. The FACT-P score (p = 0.002), EQ-HVI (p < 0.001) and EQ-VAS score (p < 0.001) varied significantly across the ECOG-PS categories. Within the FACT-P, only questionnaire items GP3 (p = 0.024) and GP7 (p < 0.001) of the PWB domain, and items GF5 (p = 0.009) and GF6 (p = 0.003) of the FWB domain related strongly with the ECOG-PS categories.
Conclusion
There are indications that HRQoL questionnaire items that have to do with impairment in physical role functioning relate strongly with ECOG-PS categories.
Simultaneous determination of remifentanil, etomidate, and rocuronium in serum microsamples from maternal or umbilical blood
Authors: Liu Hao , Cai Meng , Peng Yong , Miao Jing-kun , Yu Jin
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to establish and validate an analytical method to accurately determine the anesthetics remifentanil, etomidate, and rocuronium simultaneously in extremely small volumes of serum from maternal or umbilical blood.
Methods
A microsample of serum (10 µl) was diluted up to 50 µl with pure water, then total protein was precipitated using acetonitrile, and the three anesthetics were determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry within 4 min. Mass spectrometry was performed with positive electrospray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The analytical method was characterized in terms of linearity, lower limit of quantification, accuracy, precision, and carry-over effects. The method was validated on samples from 20 pairs of newborns and their mothers.
Results
For all three anesthetics, the analytical method showed linearity (R² > 0.99), inter- and intra-day imprecision < 15% and carry-over < 5%. The lower limits of quantitation were 0.15 ± 0.02 ng/ml for remifentanil, 16.87 ± 0.51 ng/ml for etomidate, and 106.73 ± 8.63 ng/ml for rocuronium. Respective mean concentrations of each anesthetic in serum from maternal arteries, umbilical veins and umbilical arteries were as follows: remifentanil, 4.75 ± 0.19, 2.43 ± 0.13, and 1.33 ± 0.15 ng/ml; etomidate, 412.71 ± 35.29, 302.15 ± 29.03, and 166.24 ± 21.53 ng/ml; and rocuronium, 7.08 ± 0.48, 0.86 ± 0.16, and 0.44 ± 0.77 µg/ml. Respective rates of transport into placenta for the three anesthetics were 0.52 ± 0.02, 0.75 ± 0.04, and 0.13 ± 0.02 (all P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Our analytical method can accurately and reliably determine remifentanil, etomidate, and rocuronium simultaneously in microvolumes of maternal and umbilical serum, making it suitable for pharmacokinetic studies.