bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Network Analysis for Classification of Defected Ceramic Insulators
Authors: Haiba Ahmed S. , Eliwa Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Partial discharge (PD) is a phenomenon that could occur in insulating materials when there is a localized breakdown of the electrical insulation. PD can lead to the formation of small arcs or sparks within the insulating material, which can cause damage and degradation to the insulator over time. In ceramic insulators, there are several factors that can cause PD including manufacturing defects, aging, and exposure to environmental conditions such as moisture and temperature extremes. As a result, detecting and monitoring PD in ceramic insulators is important for ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical systems that rely on these insulators. This can be done using various techniques which can provide information about the location, severity, and frequency of PD events. In this study, acoustic emission technique is introduced for PD detection and condition monitoring of defective ceramic insulators. A sequence of data processing techniques are performed on the captured signals to extract and select the most significant signatures for classification of defects in insulator strings. Moreover, Fourier transform analysis is adopted to be compared to the wavelet transform analysis. Artificial neural network (ANN) has been used to build an intelligent classifier for easily and accurately classification of defective insulators. The overall recognition rate of the classifier was obtained as 96.03% from discrete wavelet transform analysis and 88.65% from fast Fourier transform analysis. This obtained result indicates high accuracy and performance classification.
Detecting Prokaryote-Specific Gene and Other Bacterial Signatures in Thrombi from Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Xiaoke , Gao Jie , Chen Yantong , Zhang Xiaohao , Dai Zhengze , Dai Qiliang , Peng Mengna , Xiao Lulu , Jia Xuerong , Cai Haodi , Mou Tao , Li Xiang , Xu Gelin
Published: August 2023

Background and Purpose—Microbial infection has been associated with thrombogenesis. This study aimed to detect bacterium-specific genes and other signatures in thrombi from patients with acute ischemic stroke and to relate these signatures to clinical characteristics.
Methods—Blood samples were collected before thrombectomy procedures, and thrombus samples were obtained during the procedure. Identification and classification of bacteria in the samples were accomplished using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Bacterium-specific structures were observed with transmission electron microscopy. Bacterium-specific biomarkers were detected through immunohistochemical staining.
Results—16S rRNA gene was detected in 32.1% of the thrombus samples from 81 patients. Bacillus(0.04% vs 0.00046%, p =0.003), Parabacteroides (0.20% vs 0.09%, p =0.029), Prevotella (1.57% vs 0.38%, p =0.010), Streptococcus (1.53% vs 0.29%, p =0.001), Romboutsia (0.18% vs 0.0070%, p =0.029), Corynebacterium (1.61% vs 1.26%, p =0.026) and Roseburia (0.53% vs 0.05%, p =0.005) exhibited significantly higher abundance in thrombi compared to arterial blood. Bacteria-like structures were observed in 22 (27.1%), while whole bacteria-like structures were observed in 7 (8.6%) thrombi under transmission electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical staining detected bacterium-specific monocyte/macrophage markers in 51 (63.0%) out of 81 thrombi. Logistic regression analysis indicated that alcohol consumption was associated with a higher bacteria burden in thrombi (odds ratio =3.19; 95% CI, 1.10-9.27; p =0.033).
Conclusion—Bacterial signatures usually found in the oral cavity and digestive tract were detected in thrombi from patients with ischemic stroke. This suggests a potential involvement of bacterial infection in the development of thrombosis. Long-term alcohol consumption may potentially enhance this possibility.
Influence of geographical isolation and anthropic activities on genetic differentiation of date palm populations in Niger
Authors: Ibrahim Adamou , Zango Oumarou , Ousmane Abdoulaye Rafiou , Aberlenc Frédérique , Chabrillange Nathalie , Bakasso Yacoubou , Mahmoud Oumar Hissein Abba
Published: August 2023

Background and Objective: The genetic structuring of populations could be explained by several parameters such as geographical distance and anthropogenic activities. The Niger date palm population is genetically structured into biogeographical distribution of subpopulations; however, it is important to find out the main causes of this structuring. Therefore, this study aims to assess whether this genetic structure is mainly attributable to the constraints related to the distribution of date palm in Niger.
Materials and Methods: The matrix of genetic distances (Fst), the matrix of geographic distances, and the anthropic activities matrix (Euclidean distance), between subpopulations were estimated. Mantel's test was used to determine the relationships between these matrices. Indeed, the Mantel test allowed to evaluate the influence of geographic distance matrices and that of the implementation of cultural practices on the matrix of genetic differentiation between subpopulations. The observed variation was compared to the theoretical at 100,000 repetitions for better accuracy.
Results: This study showed a significant correlation between the genetic differentiation of subpopulations and the geographical distance between subpopulations (rm = 0.280 and P-value = 0.000) as well as with that of the implementation of cultural practices related to the date palm (rm = 0.534 and P-value = 0.000). The genetic variability between date palm subpopulations can be predicted according to the implementation of the cultural practices adopted by the producers and according to the geographical dispersion of the subpopulations. But the cause-and-effect analysis between genetic distances and geographic distances showed that this relationship is not directly causal, so it’s a spatial autocorrelation.
Conclusion: This study is a reference that provides knowledge on the genetic variation between Phoenix dactylifera subpopulations according to anthropic and geographical factors. This serves as information for the sustainable conservation of date palm wealth in Niger.
Microscale geometrical modulation of PIEZO1 mediated cell mechanosensing via cytoskeletal redistribution buckle
Authors: Ju Lining , Wang Haoqing , Vatankhah Parham , Wang Yao , Russel Blake , Su Qian , Zhou Zijing , Cox Charles , Jin Jasmine
Published: August 2023

Microgeometry profoundly impacts cellular behaviors, yet the link between it and the ubiquitously expressed mechanosensitive ion channel PIEZO1 remains enigmatic. We introduce a fluorescent micropipette aspiration assay to concurrently observe intracellular calcium mobilization and cytoskeletal restructuring in real-time under distinct microscale geometric alterations. Utilizing finite element analyses, coupled with PIEZO1-specific transgenic models, we discern that steeper micropipette tip angles markedly enhance PIEZO1-mediated calcium influx. This mechanical stress on the aspirated cell induces a significant F-actin reorganization, resulting in a "mechanical buckle" that amplifies PIEZO1 activity within the aspirated region. Remarkably, when this F-actin network is disrupted, PIEZO1 gating is significantly inhibited, signifying its indispensable role in mechanosensing under geometrical changes. This mechanobiology study illuminates the profound relationship between biomechanical microenvironment, cytoskeletal adaptation, and PIEZO1 activation, inspiring future bioengineering applications.
Metabolic profiles outperform the microbiota in assessing the response of vaginal microenvironments to the changed state of HPV infection
Authors: Wu Ruifang , Dai Wenkui , Du Hui , Zhou Qian , Li Sumei , Wang Yinan , Hou Jun , Guo Chunlei , Yang Qing , Li Changzhong , Xie Shouxia , Li Shuai Cheng
Published: August 2023

There is a deficiency in population-based studies investigating the impact of HPV infection on vaginal microenvironment, which influences the risk of persistent HPV infection. This prospective study investigated the dynamics of vaginal microbiota (VM) and vaginal metabolome in reaction to the changed state of HPV infection. Our results propose that the vaginal metabolome may be a superior indicator to VM when assessing the impact of altered HPV state on the vaginal microenvironment.
Mechanisms driving spatial and temporal changes in soil organic carbon stocks in saline soils in a typical county of the western Songnen Plain, northeast China
Authors: Liang Bing , Wei Jianbing , Zhao Haiqin , Wu Shangyu , Hou Yongxia , Zhang Susu
Published: August 2023

The Songnen Plain encompasses a significant grain-producing area and serves as a crucial commercial grain production base in China. Its western region, located within an agro-pastoral transitional zone, is particularly sensitive to environmental changes. Human activities have contributed to the escalating issues of sanding and salinization in this area. In recent years, there has been increasing attention on the influence of soil physical and chemical properties, topography, climate, and land use changes on soil organic carbon (SOC). However, there is limited understanding of the interplay between these factors and their combined impact on SOC. To address this gap, this study utilized the second soil census data of Tongyu County in 1982 and the latest field survey data conducted in 2022. It examined the spatial and temporal variations of soil organic carbon density (SOCD) and soil organic carbon storage (SOCS) in Tongyu County's surface (0–20 cm), subsurface (20–50 cm), and bottom (50–100 cm) layers using GIS technologies. Additionally, data-driven models, namely random forest regression and structural equation modeling, were employed to identify the environmental factors influencing SOCD distribution in different soil layers during two distinct phases. The results revealed several important findings: 1) From 1982 to 2022, SOCD in the surface, subsurface, and bottom soil layers of Tongyu County exhibited an average decrease of 0.65 kg·m− 2, 0.34 kg·m− 2, and 0.46 kg·m− 2, respectively, resulting in a total reduction of 15.68 Tg C in carbon storage; 2) In 1982, the vertical distribution of SOCD was high at both ends and low in the middle location, but by 2022, it gradually decreased layer by layer; 3) Topographic factors solely influenced surface SOCD, while the influence of environmental humidity and land use on SOCD decreased with increasing depth. These findings provide valuable scientific insights for implementing regional soil carbon sequestration and soil nutrient conservation measures.
Identification and expression analysis of neuropeptides and their G protein-coupled receptors in the predatory stink bug, Arma custos (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Huang Chunyang , Li Zhimo , Yang Xiang , Zou Jingmiao , Yang Mingwei , Wang Xinyi , Li Wenhong , He Yueping
Published: August 2023

The predatory stink bug Arma custos has been selected as an effective biological agent and has been successfully massly bred and released into fields for the control of a diverse insect pests. As a zoophytophagous generalist, A. custos relies on a complex neuropeptide signaling system to prey on distinct food and adapt into different environment. However, information about neuropeptide signaling genes in predatory bugs has not been reported to date. In the present study, a total of 57 neuropeptide precursor transcripts and 41 potential neuropeptide GPCR transcripts were found mainly using our sequenced transcriptome data. Furthermore, a set of neuropeptides and their GPCR receptors that were enriched in heads, guts, salivary glands, antennae, and legs of A. custos were identified, which might play critical roles in central nervous regulation, feeding, digestion, odor perception and motor modulation, etc. Our study provides basic information for in-depth understanding of biological and ecological characteristics of the predatory bug and would aid in the development of better pest management strategies based on the effective utilization and protection of beneficial nature enemies.
Assessing the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Emergency Department Visits in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Yu-Ting , Lai Yen-Wen , Chen Jiann-Hwa , Chen Wei-Lung , Wu Meng-Yu , Chung Jui-Yuan
Published: August 2023

Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly impacted healthcare systems worldwide. To assess the effects of the pandemic on pediatric emergency department (ED) visits in Taiwan, we conducted a study to evaluate changes in pediatric ED visits during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
This retrospective study included pediatric patients (age ≤ 18) who visited the ED between January 21, 2019, and April 30, 2019, at three hospitals of the Cathay Health System, and compared them with a corresponding period in 2020. Basic information, including mode of arrival, triage level, disposition, chief complaints, and incidence rates, were analyzed before and during the pandemic.
Results
A total of 10,116 patients (6,009 in the pre-pandemic and 4,107 in the pandemic group) were included in this study. There was a 31.65% reduction in ED visits during the pandemic, but ambulance use increased by 5.97%. COVID-19-related complaints (fever, respiratory tract infection, gastrointestinal complaints) decreased during the pandemic. However, we observed an increased incidence rate ratio (IRR) for shortness of breath (IRR = 1.26), glycemic problems (IRR = 5.4), and psychological problems (IRR = 4.6). Critical complaints, including cardiac arrest (IRR = 5) and altered mental status (IRR = 3.08), also increased during the pandemic.
Conclusion
This study suggests that reallocating hospital staff to appropriate units, developing effective epidemic response strategies, and improving prehospital emergency medical capabilities can enhance the preparedness of the healthcare system for future pandemics and ensure a more efficient management of emergency cases.
The Provenance of Copper Materials for Bronze Chariot-horse Unearthed from Yang’an Han Tomb in Qionglai, Sichuan Province revealed by the lead isotope analysis and trace elements analysis
Authors: Wei Guofeng , Zhang Ruixiang , Shi Hongyan , Wang Ning , Yang Tao
Published: August 2023

The high-grade bronze chariot-horse was unearthed in Yang’an Han tomb in Qionglai city, Sichuan Province, and its owner may be a vassal. In this study, metallographic microscopy, scanning electron microscope energy dispersive (SEM-EDS), multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS), and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES) were used to analyze samples from the bronze chariot-horse. The bronze chariot-horse samples were all Sn bronze, and the metallographic structure showed that the bronze chariot-horse was cast. The provenance of the copper material for the bronze chariot-horse was clearly different from that of the late Warring States period and other Western Han period bronzes excavated in the Sichuan area. According to historical documents and archaeological findings, the bronze chariot-horse unearthed in the Sichuan area may be related to the migration of the Liu Yue family, and the analysis of the lead isotope data indicated that the copper material probably came from the southeastern Hebei and western Shandong. This result provided an appropriate evidence for the relationship between the bronze chariot-horse and the family of Liu yue from the perspective of resource circulation.
Comparative analysis of the corrosion resistance of Bos taurus and Cocos nucifera reinforced 1170 aluminium alloy in chloride-sulphate solution
Authors: Loto Roland Tolulope , Ogunleye Ademola , Adeniyi Oladipupo , Ofordum Sonia , Ale Abisola
Published: August 2023

Reinforced AA1170 aluminium alloy with particulates of Bos taurus (BT) and Cocos nucifera (CN) (0% to 20% wt. concentration) was evaluated for their corrosion resistance properties in 3.5% NaCl and 0.05 M H2SO4 solution by potentiodynamic polarization, open circuit potential analysis, potentiostatic analysis, optical and scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffractometry. Results showed corrosion rate of monolithic aluminium alloy (0% particulate wt. concentration) from both electrolytes (3.5% NaCl and 0.05 M H2SO4) are 0.204 and 0.259 mm/y. Corrosion rate of BT reinforced composites from both solutions decreased with respect to BT particulate concentration to 0.087 and 0.216 mm/y at 20% BT. Whereas corrosion rate of CN reinforced composites decreased to 0.161 mm/y in 3.5% NaCl and increased to 0.434 mm/y in 0.05 M H2SO4 at 20% CN concentration. The most passivated aluminium composites from polarization plots occurred 5% BT and CN particulate concentrations. Increase in particulate concentration results in vulnerability to localized corrosion. Open circuit potential plots show the presence of the particulate reinforcements increased the thermodynamic instability of the surface properties of the composite and its exposure to active-passive transition behavior. Optical and scanning electron microscopy indicates significant improvements in the corrosion resistance of BT and CN particle reinforced aluminium compared to the unreinforced alloy were significant surface deterioration, pitting corrosion and intergranular corrosion were presence. X-ray diffractometry showed the phases identified for BT particle reinforced composite (Al2O3, CuS2, ZnS2, ZnCO3 and CuO2) significantly enhances it corrosion resistance compared to the monolithic and CN particle reinforced composite.
Identification of Key Genes Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis Using WGCNA and Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Yuan Liyi , Liang Zeqian , Wu Ronghai
Published: August 2023

Objective: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac joints. Understanding the underlying immune cells and key genes associated with AS is crucial for unraveling its pathogenesis. In this study, we employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify immune cells and key genes involved in AS. The GSE11886 dataset, obtained from the GEO database, was utilized for the analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Subsequently, the WGCNA package was applied to screen for key modules and genes that correlated with clinical characteristics of AS. The intersection of DEGs obtained from the analysis and genes within the blue module led to the identification of key genes, which were further subjected to correlation analysis. Our findings revealed a total of 279 DEGs, including 123 up-regulated and 156 down-regulated genes, as determined by a volcano map. Additionally, WGCNA analysis unveiled a key module strongly associated with AS. Within this module, we identified 22 key genes, namely CLIC3, LY75, TNFAIP3, TNFAIP6, STAT1, GBP1, TNFSF13B, CD69, IFITM1, WLS, CNRIP1, LY86, ICAM4, NMRK2, DNASE2B, AMDHD1, TUBB2A, DEXI, TPD52L1, ASRGL1, CECR6, and FAM213B. The discovery of these modules and key genes provides a theoretical foundation for further exploration of the mechanisms underlying the development and progression of AS.
Urinary dickkopf 3 in a kidney transplant and living donor cohort – independent risk factor or merely GFR-related?
Authors: Jehn Ulrich , Altuner Ugur , Henkel Lino , Menke Amelie , Strauss Markus , Pavenstädt Hermann , Reuter Stefan
Published: August 2023

Urinary Dickkopf 3 (uDKK3) is a marker released by kidney tubular epithelial cells that is associated with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may cause interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. Recent evidence suggests that uDKK3 can also predict the loss of kidney function in CKD patients and kidney transplant recipients, regardless of their current renal function. We conducted a prospective study on 181 kidney transplant (KTx) recipients who underwent allograft biopsy for cause, analyzing the relationship between uDKK3 levels in urine, histological findings, and future allograft function progression. Additionally, we studied 82 living kidney donors before unilateral nephrectomy (Nx), 1–3 days after surgery, and one year post-surgery to observe the effects of rapid kidney function loss. In living donors, the uDKK3/creatinine ratio significantly increased 5.3-fold 1–3 days after Nx. However, it decreased significantly to a median level of 620 pg/ml after one year, despite the absence of underlying primary kidney pathology. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decreased by an average of 29.3% to approximately 66.5 (± 13.5) ml/min/1.73m² after one year, with no further decline in the subsequent years. uDKK3 levels increased in line with eGFR loss after Nx, followed by a decrease as eGFR partially recovered within the following year. However, uDKK3 did not correlate with eGFR at the single time points in living donors. In KTx recipients, the uDKK3/creatinine ratio was significantly elevated with a median of 1,550 compared to healthy individuals or donors after Nx. The mean eGFR in the recipient group was 35.5 ml/min/1.73m², corresponding to KDIGO stage CKD G3b. The uDKK3/creatinine ratio was statistically associated with eGFR at biopsy, but not independently associated with eGFR one year after biopsy or allograft loss. In conclusion, uDKK3 is associated with recent and future kidney function and kidney allograft survival in the renal transplant cohort. Nevertheless, our findings indicate that uDKK3/creatinine has no prognostic influence on future renal outcome in living donors and kidney recipients beyond eGFR, regardless of the presence of acute renal graft pathology.
Anatomical location of motor branch points in the flexor digitorum superficialis for the injection site of botulinum toxin
Authors: Park Jihye , Sohn Donggyun , Ko Young Jin
Published: August 2023

Objective
To locate the intramuscular nerve branches of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) and determine the accurate site for botulinum toxin injection.
Design
This study anatomically dissected 24 arms of 12 fresh adult cadavers to find intramuscular nerve endings in the FDS. The motor branch points (MBPs), proximal limit points (PLPs), and distal limit points (DLPs) of the terminal intramuscular nerve endings were identified. These three parameters were expressed in longitudinal and transverse coordinates in relation to the FDS driving as a reference line.
Results
The mean length of the reference line was 234.6 ± 11.2 mm. In the longitudinal coordinate, the MBPs, PLPs, and DLPs were located at 41.6% ± 2.6%, 35.1% ± 4.1%, and 53.4% ± 4.6% of the reference line in the first main branch and 72.4% ± 4.5%, 67.5% ± 1.5%, and 82.0% ± 5.7% in the second main branch, respectively. The mean value of the transverse coordinate was not greatly deviated from the reference line.
Conclusion
The MBPs of the first and second main branches are located approximately 41.6% and 72.4% of the reference line, which considers the FDS direction, respectively. This finding helps determine the optimal injection site for botulinum toxin in the FDS.
BCDDO: Binary Child Drawing Development Optimization
Authors: Issa Abubakr S. , Ali Yossra H. , Rashid Tarik A.
Published: August 2023

A lately created metaheuristic algorithm called Child Drawing Development Optimization (CDDO) has proven to be effective in a number of benchmark tests. A Binary Child Drawing Development Optimization (BCDDO) is suggested for choosing the wrapper features in this study. To achieve the best classification accuracy, a subset of crucial features is selected using the suggested BCDDO. The proposed feature selection technique's efficiency and effectiveness are assessed using the Harris Hawk, Grey Wolf, Salp, and Whale optimization algorithms. The suggested approach has significantly outperformed the previously discussed techniques in the area of feature selection to increase classification accuracy. Moderate COVID, breast cancer, and big COVID are the three datasets utilized in this study. The classification accuracy for each of the three datasets was (98.75, 98.83%, and 99.36) accordingly.
Optimizing Container Deployment in Cloud Computing: Review, Opportunities and a PSO based Container Scheduler
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Yadav Mahendra Pratap
Published: August 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
MCDDO: Overcoming Challenges and Enhancing Performance in Search Optimization
Authors: Ameen Azad A , Rashid Tarik A. , Askar Shavan
Published: August 2023

The child drawing development optimization (CDDO) algorithm, which falls under the category of Human-based algorithms, is a recent example of a metaheuristic approach. This metaheuristic algorithm draws inspiration from the learning behavior of children in terms of drawing and cognitive development as they progress through different stages based on their age. Unlike many other search optimization algorithms, the CDDO algorithm is relatively simple to implement, requires minimal parameter tuning, and outperforms several existing search optimization algorithms. However, despite these advantages, the CDDO algorithm may encounter challenges such as getting trapped in local optima, exhibiting poor performance during the exploration phase, and experiencing stagnation of the local best solution. To overcome these issues, we propose a modified version of the CDDO algorithm (MCDDO). The MCDDO incorporates four key mechanisms: (1) iterative pattern memory updating during the exploitation phase, where new experiences are compared with the child's current drawings; (2) a change in the primary rule employed during the exploitation phase; (3) parameter tuning to strike a balance between exploration and exploitation phases; and (4) preservation of the best solution obtained in each iteration and comparing new solutions with the best solution during the exploration phase. If a new solution is found to be superior, the child's drawings are updated; otherwise, they remain unchanged. This modification introduces entirely different algorithmic mechanisms to update the conditions during the exploitation phase, resulting in improved performance, and leading to the creation of the MCDDO. The performance of the MCDDO algorithm is evaluated through experiments conducted on two standard benchmark functions: 19 classical test functions and 10 CEC-C06 2019 functions. Additionally, an evaluation is made between the MCDDO algorithm and six others widely used algorithms. Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test confirms that the MCDDO outperforms the alternative algorithms.
Effects of inflammation on voriconazole metabolism and peripheral blood trough concentration
Authors: Huang Qi , Jing Wen , Ting-ting Dai , Shao Liu , Liu Qiong , Jiang Yueping
Published: August 2023

Background
The inner association of inflammation with voriconazole (VCZ) metabolism has not been fully investigated. This study further discussed the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and voriconazole blood trough concentration, and provided reference for clinical rational use of voriconazole in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Objective
To investigate the influence of CRP on the trough concentration of voriconazole (VCZ) and provide reference for rational drug use in clinical practice.
Methods
The data of patients who used voriconazole in our hospital were analyzed retrospectively, and the plasma concentration of voriconazole was determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography(HPLC). The effects of age, sex, liver function, kidney function and CRP on plasma concentration of voriconazole were analyzed, and the relationship between CRP and the plasma concentration of voriconazole was analyzed by using the ROC curve of the subjects.
Results
In total, 284 patients were included in the study. Gender, age and renal function had no obvious influence on the valley concentration of voriconazole.There was a significant correlation between Glutamyltranspeptidase (GTP) and voriconazole valley concentration (P = 0.00487). With the increase of CRP, the trough concentration of voriconazole also increased. In the ROC curve evaluation, the area under the diagnostic curve (AUC) with CRP value of the predictor is 0.7898 (95% CI = 0.7157 ~ 0.8639, P < 0.0001), and the corresponding optimal critical cut-off point was 37.7 mg/L, which indicated that when the CRP was 37.7 mg/L, the incidence of voriconazole blood trough concentration exceeding 5.0 mg/L was high.
Conclusion
The blood trough concentration of voriconazole is very different between human and human.. Inflammation is one of the factors affecting the concentration of voriconazole in blood. It can be predicted that the CRP value will be higher than 37.7 mg/L, and the blood concentration of voriconazole may be higher than 5.0 mg/L under the same loading dose. Therefore, it is suggested to pay attention to CRP in patients when voriconazole is used clinically. When it is higher than 37.7 mg/L, more attention should be paid to the blood trough concentration of voriconazole to avoid liver dysfunction and other more serious complications.
Preparation of crosslinking-grafting cationic starch flocculant and its study on textile dyes removal
Authors: 张 昊 , Li Jiaqian , Cao Shuchen , Ding Yang , Wang Haitao , Chang Na
Published: August 2023

In the aim of textile printing and dyeing wastewater efficient and environmental friendly treatment, a cross-linked grafted cationic starch flocculant CGSt was prepared to study its removal performance of textile dyes. Here in, corn starch (St) was used as raw material, methacryloyloxyethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DMC) and N.N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) were used as cationization grafting monomer and crosslinking monomer, respectively, and an environmentally friendly Fenton initiation system was adopted. The chemical structure and physicochemical properties of CGSt were characterized SEM, XPS, XRD and FTIR. The flocculation performance of CGSt on acid light yellow G, direct lake blue 5B and reactive brilliant blue KE-GN was investigated. The removal rate RR of CGSt to Acid Light Yellow G, Reactive Brilliant Blue KE-GN and Direct Lake Blue 5B reaches 97.2%, 96.3% and 97.2%, respectively. CGSt has a wide flocculation window from 5 g/L to 12g/L. It maintains good flocculation performance in a wide pH range from 4 to 9, and the RR was the highest when pH was 9, which is beneficial for the treatment of textile printing and dyeing wastewater with high alkalinity, complex composition and variable water quality by CGSt.
Screening of Potential Probiotic Bacteria From Chili Calyx and Detection of Its Probable Bioactive Metabolites
Authors: M Shivani T , Sathiavelu Mythili
Published: August 2023

Potential source of non-dairy lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from chili calyx was studied in the current study. The target of the current research involved isolation of potential LAB, its identification, and lastly characterization of the properties of lactic acid bacteria and determining whether they could possess an integral role in the production of metabolites. Initially, the isolated bacteria were examined for physical and microscopic properties. The bacteria were found to be gram negative and catalase positive during the initial screening. SEM image confirmed the bacteria to have rod shape structure. The isolate was further exposed to a stress environment that included various levels of bile, phenol, acid, and simulated gastric conditions. Among all of the different parameters, the LAB isolate demonstrated a survival percentage of higher than 70%. By analysing the isolate for hemolytic assay and antibacterial activity, the safety characteristics were assessed later. The isolate's preliminary characteristics supported that it was safe for usage because it did not exhibit any zone formation or γ-hemolysis in the hemolytic assay. In terms of antimicrobial activity, all strains were able to suppress the enteric pathogens, which was confirmed by the existence of a zone. Following the aforementioned tests, 16S rRNA gene-sequencing was performed and phylogenetic analysis identified the isolate as Enterobacter cloacae. The LAB's ability to produce secondary metabolites was finally analysed. After being extracted, the secondary metabolites were recognized by GCMS and confirmed by FTIR.
FilGAP regulates tumor growth in Glioma through the regulation of mTORC1 and mTORC2
Authors: Tsutsumi Koji , Nohara Ayumi , Tanaka Taiki , Murano Moe , Miyagaki Yurina , Ohta Yasutaka
Published: August 2023

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that forms the two different protein complexes, known as mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTOR signaling is activated in a variety of tumors, including glioma that is one of the malignant brain tumors. FilGAP (ARHGAP24) is a negative regulator of Rac, a member of Rho family small GTPases. In this study, we found that FilGAP interacts with mTORC1/2 and is involved in tumor formation in glioma. FilGAP interacted with mTORC1 via Raptor and with mTORC2 via Rictor and Sin1. Depletion of FilGAP in KINGS-1 glioma cells decreased phosphorylation of S6K and AKT. Furthermore, overexpression of FilGAP increased phosphorylation of S6K and AKT, suggesting that FilGAP activates mTORC1/2. U-87MG, glioblastoma cells, showed higher mTOR activity than KINGS-1, and phosphorylation of S6K and AKT was not affected by suppression of FilGAP expression. However, in the presence of PI3K inhibitors, phosphorylation of S6K and AKT was also decreased in U-87MG by depletion of FilGAP, suggesting that FilGAP activates mTORC2 in PI3K-independent manner. Finally, we showed that depletion of FilGAP in KINGS-1 and U-87MG cells significantly reduced spheroid growth. These results suggest that FilGAP may contribute to tumor growth in glioma by regulating mTORC1/2 activities.
Influence of steps per day on health-related quality of life in schoolchildren: the mediator role of cardiorespiratory fitness
Authors: Rodríguez-Gutiérrez Eva , Torres-Costoso Ana , Martínez-García Irene , de Arenas-Arroyo Sergio Núñez , Medrano-Echeverría María , Lucerón-Lucas-Torres Maribel , Sequí-Domínguez Irene , Álvarez-Bueno Celia , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente
Published: August 2023

Objectives
To analyse the relationship between steps per day and HRQoL and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and to examine whether the relationship between steps per day and HRQoL is mediated by CRF in schoolchildren.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study including 501 schoolchildren (aged 9–12 years, 47.3% girls), from Cuenca, Spain. Steps per day were measured using the Xiaomi MI Band 3 Smart Bracelet, HRQoL was estimated by the KIDSCREEN-27 questionnaire and CRF was assessed using the 20-m shuttle run test.
Results
ANCOVA and MANOVA models showed that children with a higher mean number of steps per day (> 9,000 steps/day) had better HRQoL (global score and physical and psychological well-being) and higher CRF levels than their peers with a lower number of steps per day (p < 0.05); however, these differences were attenuated when controlling for sex, age, mother’s education level and CRF (p > 0.05). Linear regression models estimated that each 1000-step increment was associated with better CRF (β = 0.350). In addition, the relationship between steps per day HRQoL global score and physical and psychological well-being is partially mediated by CRF (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Steps per day is a good metric to estimate daily physical activity because of its positive relationship with CRF. Moreover, those children taking more than 9,000 steps per day have better physical and psychological well-being. Finally, a substantial part of the improvement in HRQoL achieved through the increase in physical activity (steps per day) is mediated by CRF.
Predicting tomorrow’s biodiversity: what do we miss at local scale?
Authors: Collart Flavien , Kiebacher Thomas , Quetsch Marion , Broennimann Olivier , Guisan Antoine , Vanderpoorten Alain
Published: August 2023

Evidence for the need of shifting scales in biodiversity analyses under global change is mounting, raising the question of the variables operating at fine scales. We evaluated the extent to which community composition of one guild of land plants (bryophytes vs tracheophytes) can be predicted from abiotic variables, species composition and architecture of the other guild. Tracheophyte community composition, which integrates biotic and abiotic factors, was, by far, the best predictor of bryophyte community composition, suggesting that, even in an intensively studied natural laboratory such as the Western Swiss Alps, improved measurements and mapping of micro-environmental factors are urgently required.
The costs of suboptimal breastfeeding in Ontario, Canada, and potential economic impacts from improving rates: A health system costing analysis
Authors: Onah Nnachebe Michael , Hoy Sandra , Slofstra Kathleen
Published: August 2023

Background
Human milk from the breast is the healthiest option for human infants. All other sources of nutrition pose some risk to child, maternal and environmental health. There are significant costs to suboptimal rates of breastfeeding for children, families and society. In Ontario, Canada, breastfeeding initiation rates are high (over 92%), however exclusivity and duration rates drop over time. Suboptimal breastfeeding rates result in an associated cost burden for both families and the health care system.
Methods
We calculated the savings that the Ontario healthcare system would have benefited from had breastfeeding rates been higher, both from the time of hospital discharge and at 6 months postpartum. Using methods from similar studies carried out in the UK, US, Spain, Mexico and Southeast Asia we estimate the benefits of increased exclusive breastfeeding rates based on the lower incidence of childhood and maternal diseases for which there is robust evidence, including: lower respiratory infections, gastroenteritis, otitis media, childhood leukemia, necrotising enterocolitis, and breast and ovarian cancers. We used existing databases and literature to estimate the monetary cost of these diseases.
Results
It is estimated that suboptimal exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months of age for infants born in Ontario in 2019 costs the Ontario healthcare system about US $211 million per annum in treatment costs for five childhood and two maternal illnesses. Increasing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rate at 6 months (36.3%) to rate at discharge from hospital after delivery (64.9%) would save about US$73 million dollars per annum and about US$134 million if EBF rate at 6 months were increased to initiation rates (92.1%).
Conclusions
Interventions that facilitate the breastfeeding relationship and support families who want to feed their children human milk are cost effective, upstream investments in public health. Evidence based strategies aimed at helping to establish and maintain an exclusive breastfeeding relationship would contribute to lowering both the health burden on families and the associated fiscal burden on the Ontario healthcare system.
Preparation and Adsorption Properties of Magnetic chitosan/sludge biochar composites for Removal of Cu2+ions
Authors: Zhang Meng , Wang Xinglei , Nie Jing , Lv Hui
Published: August 2023

The magnetic chitosan/sludge biochar composite adsorbent was prepared using chitosan, Fe3O4, and sludge biochar as raw materials. The composite adsorbent can achieve rapid solid-liquid separation under the action of an external magnetic field. The morphology and microstructure of the composite adsorbent were characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, VSM, and BET analysis. The adsorption performance of the composite adsorbent for Cu2+ was investigated through static adsorption experiments, and the effects of adsorbent dosage, initial concentration of Cu2+, initial pH value of the solution, and adsorption temperature on the adsorption efficiency of Cu2+ were discussed. The results showed that chitosan and Fe3O4 were successfully loaded onto the sludge biochar. When the initial concentration of Cu2+ was 30 mg/L, the dosage of the magnetic chitosan/sludge biochar composite material was 0.05 g, the adsorption time was 180 min, pH was 5, and the temperature was room temperature, the maximum removal rate of Cu2+ reached 99.77%, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 55.16 mg/g. The adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm data fit well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, indicating a chemical adsorption process of monolayer coverage.
A multidisciplinary approach unveils the distribution of the Alpine long-eared bat Plecotus macrobullaris in Italy
Authors: Mori Emiliano , Baratti Mariella , Viviano Andrea , Dondini Gianna , Vergari Simone , Patriarca Elena , Debernardi Paolo , Spada Martina , Vergari Sebastiano , Ancillotto Leonardo
Published: August 2023

The application of genetic techniques has allowed to identify a number of cryptic species of bats and to better define their distribution ranges and conservation status. Long-eared bats Plecotus spp. occur throughout Eurasia and Africa, with a high number of morphologically similar species, often occurring in sympatry. Therefore, disentangling the distribution of one species from another may be challenging. Italy represents a diversity hotspot for long-eared bats in Europe, hosting six species belonging to the genus Plecotus. In this study we report on both unpublished ad-hoc investigations on the Alpine long-eared bat Plecotus macrobullaris by integrating field and molecular methods, as well as opportunistic verified records from citizen scientists, to redefine the distribution of this species in Italy. We retrieved a total of 27 unpublished confirmed records, namely 11 from iNaturalist, 4 from Facebook, and 13 from personal communications from bat workers. In Italy, the species was known to occur throughout the Alpine and Pre-Alpine chain, in some plain sites in Northeastern regions, and near the sea in Liguria. Based on new records, we proved that it occurs also in the other areas, including the Northern Apennine ridge. Thus, from the legal point of view, our findings also included a novel administrative region (Tuscany) within the area of presence of P. macrobullarisi.e., expand the responsibility of the species monitoring and implementation of conservation measures to additional authorities, as expected by the Habitats Directive.
On a bio-based epoxy vitrimer from a cardanol derivative
Authors: Ferretti Federico , Damonte Giacomo , Cantamessa Francesco , Arrigo Rossella , Athanassiou Athanassia , Zych Arkadiusz , Fina Alberto , Monticelli Orietta
Published: August 2023

The development of this work lies in the relevant interest in epoxy resins, which, despite their wide use, do not meet the requirements for sustainable materials. Therefore, the proposed approach considers the need to develop environmentally friendly systems, both in terms of the starting material and the synthetic method applied, as well as in terms of end-of-life. The above issues were taken into account by: i) using a monomer from renewable sources, ii) promoting the formation of dynamic covalent bonds, allowing for material reprocessing, and iii) evaluating the degradability of the material. Indeed, an epoxy derived from cardanol was used, which for the first time was applied in the development of a vitrimer system. The exploitation of a diboronic ester dithiol ([2,2′-(1,4-phenylene)-bis[4-mercaptan-1,3,2-dioxaborolane], DBEDT) as a cross-linker allowed the cross-linking reaction to be carried out without the use of solvents and catalysts, through a thiol-epoxy “click” mechanism. The dynamicity of the network was demonstrated by gel fraction experiments, rheological and DMA measurements. In particular, the formation of a vitrimer was highlighted, characterized by low relaxation times (around 4 seconds at 70°C) and an activation energy of ca. 50 kJ/mol. Moreover, the developed material, which is easily biodegradable in sea water, was found to show promising flame reaction behavior. Preliminary experiments demonstrated that, unlike an epoxy resin prepared stating from the same monomer and using a classical cross-linker, our boron-containing material exhibited no dripping under combustion conditions, a phenomenon that will allow this novel bio-based system to be widely used.
Catatonia-like behavior and immune activation: a crosstalk between psychopathology and pathology in schizophrenia
Authors: Messina Antonino , Caraci Filippo , Aguglia Eugenio , Signorelli Maria Salvina
Published: August 2023

Background: in Kalhbaum's first description of catatonia, symptoms of the affective domain, such as blunted affect, were included in addition to motor symptoms. Recently some authors proposed to revisit the concept of catatonia by including symptoms such as blunted affect and psychomotor slowing. This study aimed to investigate the association between catatonic-like behavior (CLB) (emotional withdrawal, blunted affect, and psychomotor slowing) and inflammatory markers, such as neutrophil/lymphocytes ratio (NLR) and lymphocytes/monocytes ratio (LMR) in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Method: a sample of 25 patients with schizophrenia (10 females, 15 males) was recruited, and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was used to assess the severity of emotional withdrawal, blunted affect, and psychomotor slowing.
Findings: the correlation analysis (Spearman r) revealed a robust direct association between blunted affect and psychomotor slowing (r=0.79, P=0.00), and a significant direct correlation between CLB (emotional withdrawal, r=0.51, P=0.05; blunted affect r=0.58, P=0.05; motor retardation, r=0.56, P=0.05) and LMR (r=0.53, P=0.05).
In addition, patients with a duration of illness (DOI) older than five years had a higher presence of CLB and a higher LMR than patients with a more recent diagnosis of the disease. Likely, patients with positive symptoms and in the prodromal and active stages of the disease have a different immune profile than patients in the residual stage and with a predominance of negative symptoms.
Conclusions: psychomotor slowing and blunted affect are two significantly related features, representing the two-faced Janus of immobility. Furthermore, aggregating them in CLB is more predominant the longer the duration of schizophrenia and is associated with different a specific pattern of immune activation.
Exploring the direct or mediating associations between lipids, atherosclerosis, obesity, and intervertebral disc degeneration: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Yu-Hang , Zhang Nai-Jing , Chen Jia-Ming , Guo Tian-Ci , Yang Zheng-Hui , Liu Ai-Feng , Jiang Xing-Yu , Wang Ping
Published: August 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a causal relationship between different lipids and intervertebral disc degeneration, and to verify whether obesity and atherosclerosis mediate the relationship between lipids and intervertebral disc degeneration. Methods Instrumental variables and their associated data were extracted from the corresponding genome-wide association studies. Inverse variance weighted (IVW), Weighted Median Estimator (WME), MR-Egger regression method, Simple mode (SM) method, Leave-One-Out method and Weighted Mode (WM) method were used to perform Mendelian randomization (MR) statistical analysis of the instrumental variables of exposure and outcome, Sensitivity analyses were then performed using Cochrane's Q value and MR − Egger intercept. Results In the two-sample MR Analysis, HDL, ApoA-1 were protective for both cervical disc degeneration (CDD) and non-cervical disc degeneration (NCDD), BMI contributed to both CDD and NCDD, while AS only contributed to NCDD. In the multivariate MR Analysis, the protective effects of HDL and ApoA-1 on CDD and NCDD were not independent of each other, Meanwhile, AS and BMI were independent risk factors for NCDD. In mediating MR Analysis, both AS and BMI mediated the effect of HDL on NCDD (AS 32.58%, BMI 15.49%), both AS and BMI mediated the effect of ApoA-1 on NCDD (AS 19.35%, BMI 17.65%). Conclusion HDL, ApoA-1, BMI are causally associated with both CDD and NCDD. The protective effects of HDL and ApoA-1 on intervertebral disc degeneration were not independent of each other. AS is causally associated with NCDD. BMI and AS are independent association factors for NCDD. BMI and AS also play important mediating roles in NCDD.