bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the PSMA target efficiency and in vivo biodistribution among [68Ga]ludotadipep, [18F]DCFPyL, and [68Ga]PSMA-11 in a tumor xenograft model
Authors: Kim Min Hwan , Lee Kyongkyu , Kim Chul Hee , Lee Sang Hwon , Park Chansoo , Kil Hee Seup , Lee Yong Jin , Lee Kyo Chul , Chi Dae Yoon
Published: April 2022

We have compared the similarity of the in vivo distribution of the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents [18F]DCFPyL, [68Ga]ludotadipep, and [68Ga]PSMA-11. This study is designed for a further selection of a PSMA-targeted PET imaging agent for the therapeutic evaluation of [177Lu]ludotadipep, our previously developed prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted prostate cancer therapeutic radiopharmaceutical. In vitro cell uptake was performed to evaluate the affinity to PSMA using PSMA + PC3-PIP, and PSMA − PC3-flu was used for the study. MicroPET/CT 60 min dynamic imaging and biodistribution were performed at 1, 2, and 4 h after injection. Autoradiography and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate the PSMA + tumor target efficiency. In the microPET/CT image, [68Ga]PSMA-11 showed the highest uptake in the kidney among all three compounds. [18F]DCFPyL and [68Ga]PSMA-11 showed similar patterns of in vivo biodistribution and high tumor targeting efficiency, similar to those of [68Ga]ludotadipep. All three agents showed high uptake in tumor tissue on autoradiography, and PSMA expression was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Thus, [18F]DCFPyL or [68Ga]PSMA-11 can be used as a PET imaging agent to monitor [177Lu]ludotadipep therapy in prostate cancer patients.
The optimization of single point incremental forming (SPIF) to produce conical cups
Authors: Wu Ming-Chang , Liao Yu-Bo , Lai Jyun-Wei , Tsao chung-chen
Published: April 2022

Single point incremental forming (SPIF) is an economical and fast sheet metal forming technique, which does not require a set of specified and complicated dies and a press machine. A finite element method (FEM) model of an incremental sheet metal formed conical cup is developed using ABAQUS software. The geometric shape and processing parameters for the punch of the tool path on the thinnest (T) and uniformity (U) of the sidewall thickness of a finished conical cup are measured by SPIF. The SPIF variables for the experimental design include the punch diameter (D), the Z-axis feed-down distance (Z), the rotational speed of the punch (R) and the feed rate (F). The experiment uses 25 sets of analogs and a Box-Behnken design (BBD). Minitab software is used for a regression analysis and to develop the prediction equations for T and U for a finished conical cup. The FEM model and response surface methodology (RSM) are used to determine the optimum design for T and U for a finished conical cup. Compared with the prediction equations for T and U for a finished conical cup that are calculated using RSM, the results for the FEM demonstrate excellent accuracy.
Tree species matter for forest microclimate regulation during the drought year 2018: Disentangling environmental drivers and biotic drivers
Authors: Richter Ronny , Ballasus Helen , Engelmann Rolf A. , Zielhofer Christopher , Wirth Christian
Published: April 2022

Tree canopies are considered to effectively buffer climate extremes and to mitigate climate change effects. Droughts, which are predicted to become more frequent in the course of climate change, might alter the microclimatic cooling potential of trees. However, our understanding of how microclimate at the tree canopy level is modulated by environmental and tree characteristics and their interactions is still limited. Here, we investigated canopy temperature regulation for five mature co-occurring tree species for two contrasting hydrological situations during the severe drought in 2018. Even though we observed a significant drought-induced decline in canopy cover and transpiration across tree species, we found evidence that differences in the water use strategies of trees affected cooling mechanisms differently. Although a large share of the variations in the cooling potential of trees was explained by direct and indirect effects of meteorological factors, we identified a gradual shift in importance from lateral heat flux to components defining the magnitude of sensible heat flux on the energy budget of tree as the drought gained severity. The decrease in latent heat fluxes, approximated by sap flux rates, furthermore resulted in a reduced cooling potential and an equalization of tree species canopy temperatures.
Galton’s regression to and away from the mean
Authors: de champeaux dennis
Published: April 2022

Francis Galton’s achievements include the phenomenon of IQ regression to the mean of descendants in a hereditary context. A naïve interpretation yields that subsequent generations ultimately converge to the mean of the distribution, a fix point. We provide a simple assumption regarding descendants so that we obtain a counter balancing force, regression away from the mean, which will preserve an initial distribution. The argument is supported by ‘experimental’ statistics. We discretize a normal distribution, and subsequently replace many times a parent by a child, where a parent and a child are generated randomly, while the child is constrained by the regression equation. Our simple assumption guarantees that the original distribution is preserved. We obtain the regression to the mean effect from the perspective of the parent and a regression away from the mean effect from the perspective of the descendants. Our assumption, and others, corresponds, we believe, with a conjecture about the ‘mechanics’ for the generation of a specific heritable trait.
A comprehensive genomic reporting structure for communicating all clinically significant primary and secondary findings
Authors: Sam Jordan , Reble Emma , Kodida Rita , Shaw Angela , Clausen Marc , Salazar Mariana Gutierrez , Shickh Salma , Mighton Chloe , Carroll June , Armel Susan Randall , Aronson Melyssa , Capo-Chichi José-Mario , Cohn Iris , Eisen Andrea , Elser Christine , Graham Tracy , Ott Karen , Panchal Seema , Piccinin Carolyn , Schrader Kasmintan , Kim Raymond , Lerner-Ellis Jordan , Bombard Yvonne
Published: April 2022

Genomic sequencing (GS) can reveal secondary findings (SFs), findings unrelated to the reason for testing, that can be overwhelming to both patients and providers. An effective approach for communicating all clinically significant primary and secondary GS results is needed to effectively manage this large volume of results. The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive approach to communicate all clinically significant primary and SF results. A genomic test report with accompanying patient and provider letters were developed in 3 phases: review of current clinical reporting practices, consulting with genetic and non-genetics experts, and iterative refinement through circulation to key stakeholders. The genomic test report and consultation letters present a myriad of clinically relevant GS results in distinct, tabulated sections, including primary and secondary findings, with in-depth details of each finding. They provide detailed variant and disease information, personal and familial risk assessments, clinical management details, and additional resources to help support providers and patients with implementing healthcare recommendations related to their GS results. The report and consultation letters represent a comprehensive approach to communicate all clinically significant SFs to patients and providers, facilitating clinical management of GS results.
Effects of vaginal microecology and immunity on the pregnancy outcome of cervical cerclage
Authors: Cai Shengnan , Wu yanting , Zeng li , Ding yiqian
Published: April 2022

Objective To investigate the effects of vaginal microecology and immune status on the pregnancy outcome of cervical cerclage. Methods The clinical data of 125 patients with cervical incompetence who underwent transvaginal cervical cerclage in our hospital from January 2018 to January 2021 were collected, based on which the associations of vaginal microecology and related immune cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) with the cervical cerclage outcome were explored. Results All of the 125 patients had singleton pregnancies, who were aged 20–43 years, with a mean of (32.34±5.17) years. The surgery was successful in 104 patients, while unsuccessful in 21 patients, revealing a success rate of 83.20%. There were 70 full-term deliveries, 34 premature deliveries (28 survived while 6 died), and 15 late miscarriages. Univariate analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the timing of surgery, gestational age of cerclage, preoperative cervical canal length, genital tract infections and preoperative invasive procedures between the successful and unsuccessful groups (P<0.05). Insignificant differences were found in the pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) (P>0.05). According to the multivariate analysis results, cerclage timing and genital tract infections were independent risk factors for postoperative pregnancy failure (P<0.05). The pathogen detection rates in the two groups of pregnant women were analyzed, finding significantly higher incidence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in the unsuccessful group than in the successful group (P<0.05). Inter-group comparison revealed that the positive rates for vaginal microenvironmental factors (LE, NAG, SNA, H2O2 and pH) were all significantly higher in the unsuccessful group than in the successful group (P<0.05). Besides, the immune cytokine levels in the cervicovaginal secretions were also all significantly higher in the unsuccessful group than in the successful group (P<0.05). Conclusion The pregnancy outcome of patients undergoing cervical cerclage is associated with the imbalance of vaginal microecology and the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in cervicovaginal secretions.
NHS staff awareness, attitudes and actions towards the recent change in organ donation law in England-results of the #options survey.
Authors: Coe Dorothy , Newell Natasha , Jones Mark , Robb Matthew , Clark Natalie , Reaich David , Wroe Caroline
Published: April 2022

BackgroundIn Spring 2020 there was a change in organ donation legislation in England (UK). Whilst much is known about public opinions to organ donation and the change in legislation, there is little evidence about the opinions of the NHS workforce. This study was set up to understand the levels of awareness, support and action of NHS staff to this change and to explore the impact of respondent demographics, place and type of work on support, awareness and action.MethodsAn online survey was offered to all NHS organisations in North Thames and the North East and North Cumbria through the NIHR Clinical Research Network between July and December 2020. Participating organisations were provided with an information package and promoted the survey via email and internal staff communications. Analysis was completed using Statistical Analysis Systems software with differences in categorical variables compared using Chi-squared tests.ResultsA total of 5789 staff participated in the survey. NHS staff respondents were supportive of the change in organ donation legislation; this support was most prominent in the Ambulance Service, but found in all sections of the NHS. Across almost all demographic variables, NHS staff were more aware of the change in legislation than the General Public. NHS staff respondents were much more likely to already be on the organ donation register, more likely to have had a conversation with partner/family and less likely to have registered a decision not to donate than the General Public.ConclusionsNHS staff were more aware, supportive and more likely to have taken positive action around the change in organ donation legislation, even across religious and minority ethnic groups. The size and ethnic diversity of the NHS workforce offers huge opportunity to enable and support NHS staff to be community advocates for organ donation and to raise awareness of the change in legislation amongst their communities.Study registrationThe study involved NHS staff and did not require full ethical approval. It was reviewed and approved by a Health Research Authority assessor. IRAS number: 275992
In vitro compatibility of Brassicaceae extracts with nematophagous fungi and their effects against Nacobbus celatus
Authors: Sosa Ana Laura , Girardi Natalia Soledad , Rosso Laura Cristina , Etcheverry Miriam Graciela , Passone María Alejandra
Published: April 2022

Nacobbus celatus sp. n. is one of the main root-knot nematodes in the field destined for horticultural production of the central region of Argentine due to its ability to infect several host plants. The lack of new and safe active ingredients against this nematode has restricted control alternatives for growers. Egg-parasitic fungi and biofumigation with brassicaceae have been considered as potential candidates for the development of bionematicides. Nematicidal effects of Brassica oleracea var. italic (broccoli) and Brassica oleracea var. capitata (cabbage) aqueous extracts (AEs) against second-stage juveniles (J2) of N. celatus were evaluated in vitro. Fisher LSD tests evidenced significant nematicidal (α = 0.05) effects of the two AEs tested, with LD100 of 250 and 500 µL mL − 1 for broccoli and cabbage, respectively. Compatibility assays between AEs and five nematophagous fungi were performed on soil extract solid medium (SESM) conditioned at 0.99 water activity and incubated at 30, 25 and 20°C. Purpureocillium lilacinum SR14 was the fungal strain that showed compatibility at levels of spore viability, growth rate and conidia productions at LD50 (125 µL mL− 1) and LD25 (60 µL mL− 1) of broccoli aqueous extract (BAE) y enhanced the nematophagous effect. Moreover, phytotoxic studies revealed that the 125 of BAE applied at the transplantation time could be safely used without affecting tomato culture. In conclusion, the integrated application of BAE with the nematophagous fungus, which combines two action mechanisms, represent a promising integrated strategy to control phytoparasitic nematodes.
A novel enantioseparation and trace determination of chiral herbicide flurtamone using UPLC-MS/MS in various food matrices and environmental based on Box-Behnken Design
Authors: Zhang Yanqing , Li Rui , Tan Yuting , Chen Zihao , Sang Ningning , Wang Zhen , wang Minghua , Shi Haiyan
Published: April 2022

The detection method for flurtamone enantiomers in soil and five food crops (wheat, maize, Sorghum, soybeans and pea) was established using modified QuEChERS method combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). In this study, the Box-Behnken Design (BBD) of response surface methodology was used to optimize the enantioseparation parameters of flurtamone on Chiralpak IG-3 column. The absolute configuration was confirmed by the specific rotation and electron circular dichrometry(ECD). The elution order was confirmed as R-(-)-flurtamone and S-(+)-flurtamone with resolution (Rs) 4.10 on Chiralpak IG-3 column. Under optimal conditions, the average recoveries in six matrices ranged from 78.2% to 115.7%. The intraday relative standard deviations (RSDs) were less than 11.9%, and the interday RSDs were less than 7.9% for the two enantiomers. The limits of detection was 0.005 mg kg−1 for flurtamone enantiomers in six matrixs. Finally, the method was applied to the enantioselective degradation of flurtamone enantiomers in soil. R-(-)-flurtamone was degraded faster than S-(+)-flurtamone in soil, causing the EF of the enantiomers to change from 0.50 to 0.42 in 28 d. The method for residue analysis of flurtamone in food and environmental samples was established for the first time and applied to actual samples. The proposed method provides reliable technical support for food sample analysis and environmental risk assessment of flurtamone.
EEG-Based Drowsiness Analysis to Establish Driving Safety Using Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: s priyanka , s shanthi
Published: April 2022

Drowsiness is the inactivated state of the brain and observed during the transition from awaken state to sleepy state. This inactive state diminishes an individual's attention and leads to accidents during professional or personal activities. The prediction of this inactive (drowsiness) state using AI plays a substantial role in the avoidance of accidents. The advancements in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience approaches are used for the prediction of this inactive drowsy state. In order to prevent these devastating accidents, the state of drowsiness of the driver has to be be monitored. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a predominant tool adopted to examine various states of the brain effectually. It is generally known as Brain-Computer Interface System. The EEG channels are used for predicting the inactive state while implementing the real-time applications. However, the researchers face various challenges during execution based on the classification and channel selection process. This research concentrates on modelling and efficient drowsiness prediction methods and intends to bridge the gap encountered in the existing approaches. A novel stacked Long-Term Short Memory \((s-LSTM)\) with Deep Fully Connected- Convolutional Neural Network (\(DFC-CNN\)) is used to learn and memorize the long-term feature dependencies and attains essential information based on time-series prediction. Single and multi-channel EEG data is considered to measure the statistical characteristics of available EEG signals. The online available OpenBCI sleep analysis data is used for performing the experimentation, and the simulation is done in a Pycharm and run in GoogleColab environment. The proposed \(s-LSTM\) model provides a better trade-off compared to existing approaches. The model generalization is improved with the validation of combined feature subjects. Here, metrics like prediction accuracy, RMSE, false positives, scaling coefficients related to false positives are measured to show the significance of the model.
WITHDRAWN: Influence of Genetic Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Nifedipine Controlled-release Tablets in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Li Zhen , Wang Siyang , Ren Jian , Zhi Tingting , Wang Hongxia , Zhu Yuanyuan , Yao Zhiqing , wang Yanhui , Wang Huizi , Zhang Ruiqing , Wang Xiaoru
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker, which is used to treat hypertension and angina pectoris. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of gene polymorphisms on pharmacokinetics of relevant metabolic genes with inconsistent or incomplete research conclusions and of others that exhibited an impact on pharmacodynamics, so as to provide a scientific basis for the inter-individual variation in nifedipine controlled-release tablet disposition.Methods: A total of 33 healthy volunteers were administered a single 30 mg oral dose of nifedipine controlled-release tablets, and were genotyped for 17 SNPs within 12 genes, by StepOne Real-Time PCR System and the Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight. The plasma concentration levels were quantified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed and the mean pharmacokinetic variables were compared according to genotypes. Results: The CYP3A4 rs2242480, ABCB1 rs1045642, CACNA1D rs312481, CACNA1C rs2238032, ACE rs4646994 and SLC14A2 rs3745009 polymorphisms significantly influenced the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine controlled-release tablets with a greater effect being noted on CACNA1D, CACNA1C, and SLC14A2. These results continued to be statistically significant following multivariate correction. Conclusions: The CYP3A4 rs2242480, ABCB1 rs1045642, CACNA1D rs312481, CACNA1C rs2238032, ACE rs4646994 and SLC14A2 rs3745009 polymorphisms significantly influenced the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine controlled-release tablets . Their pharmacokinetic properties were examined, so as to provide a theoretical basis for individual differences found during treatment.
Effect of quantified table ware use on ABC goals in patients with type 2 diabetes: portions, proportions and perceptions
Authors: Leung Ching-Hsiang , Tzeng Min-Su , Tsai Chia-Ying , Tsai Wan-Rong , Liu Sung-Chen , Hsu Pi-Hui , Chuang Shih-Ming
Published: April 2022

Aims: This study examined the effect of 12 months use of quantified tableware (QTW) on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).Methods: In this prospective, randomized, observational study, 94 adult T2DM patients from the Diabetes Shared Care Network with HbA1c >7% were randomly assigned to control (n=47) and intervention (n=47) groups. All were followed up at the out-patient clinic. The intervention group were given a set of QTW to use. HbA1c, BP and serum LDL cholesterol (LDL), the (ABC) goals were defined as HbA1c <7%, BP <140 mmHg systolic and <90 mmHg diastolic, and LDL <100 mg/dL.Results: Seventy-seven patients, 43 in the control group and 34 in the intervention group completed the study. After 12 months, fasting glucose (AC) reduced significantly in the control group, while the intervention group had significantly decreased AC, 2-hour postprandial glucose (PC), HbA1c and LDL. Achievement of LDL and 2 ABC goals significantly increased only in the intervention group. All ABC goals were achieved by 21.9% in the intervention group and 12.8% in the control group.Conclusions: Use of quantified tableware, a low-cost nutritional intervention for 12 months improved AC, PC, HbA1c and LDL cholesterol levels in T2DM patients.
A retrospective, observational cohort study of pharmacist telehealth services in an underserved population with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Mukherjee Sumana Mimi , DelDotto Dana , Patel Aesha , Silva Matthew A.
Published: April 2022

Background: To safely provide comprehensive medication management during the COVID-19 pandemic, clinical pharmacists caring for outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center shifted to providing telehealth, primarily via telephone. Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of clinical pharmacist telehealth for these underserved patients, and identified associations between characteristics and efficacy measures. Method: Patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes (hemoglobin A1c greater than or equal to 8%) with a clinical pharmacist visit between April 1 and August 31, 2020 were included in the retrospective cohort study. The effectiveness of telehealth was measured by the percentage of patients reached, the percentage of appointments completed, and the change in hemoglobin A1c from baseline. Interventions by the clinical pharmacist were analyzed as a secondary outcome. Results: There were 181 patients scheduled and 172 (95%) of those patients interacted with a clinical pharmacist at least once. Of the 667 appointments scheduled, 72.9% were kept. Median hemoglobin A1cs changed from 10.2% to 9.2% and 24.6% achieved a hemoglobin A1c less than or equal to 8% (n = 138, p-value < 0.0001 for both). The healthcare quality impact of interventions by appointment was favorable; 83.3% were significant (brought care to a higher standard), 1.9% were very significant (averted major organ dysfunction) and 0.4% were extremely significant (prevented death). Conclusion: Clinical pharmacist telehealth was effective for providing care and lowering hemoglobin A1cs for many patients during the pandemic when office visits were not an option.
MRCKα mediates Met- and Leu-stimulated β-casein synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells via targeting mTOR
Authors: Fang Fang , Baal Jürgen van , Ma Lu , Gao Xuejun , Dijkstra Jan , Bu Dengpan
Published: April 2022

Background
Amino acids (AA), including methionine (Met) and leucine (Leu), stimulate milk synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC) via activation of protein kinase mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Here, we further explored the possible role of myotonic dystrophy-related CDC42-binding kinase alpha (MRCKα), previously shown to be a critical mediator of prolactin-stimulated milk synthesis in BMEC.
Results
Application of various doses (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 mM) of Met or Leu to a primary culture of BMEC revealed an optimal dose on stimulation of β-casein production of 0.6 mM for both AA. At this dose, Met and Leu independently evoked higher protein levels of MRCKα, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and Cyclin D1, and increased phosphorylation of mTOR (Ser2448) and of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) (Tyr317) after 24 h. The stimulatory effect of both AA on β-casein and on phosphorylation of mTOR and of protein kinase B (AKT) (Thr308), was blocked by silencing MRCKα expression, whereas that on phosphorylation of PI3K remained intact. Inhibiting PI3K with LY294002 blocked Met- and Leu-induced protein expression of MRCKα and β-casein and phosphorylation of mTOR. Overexpression of MRCKα increased protein levels of β-casein and phosphorylation of mTOR, which was prevented by AKT inhibitor MK2206.
Conclusion
Our results indicate that MRCKα is a key mediator of the Met- and Leu-induced signaling cascade, acting downstream of PI3K and upstream of AKT to control β-casein synthesis in BMEC.
Spatial Effects of Tourism development on Economic Resilience: An empirical study of Wenchuan earthquake based on dynamic spatial Durbin model
Authors: Zhang jun
Published: April 2022

This paper highlights the importance of tourism spatial effects. Using the panel data of 135 Wenchuan earthquake-affected counties which from 2008 to 2018, this study employs the dynamic spatial Durbin model to examine the spatial effects of tourism development on post-disaster economic resilience and compares the difference of tourism-growth nexus between severe disaster-affected counties and general disaster-affected counties. The empirical results show that tourism development contributes to economic resilience for general disaster-affected counties, which supports the tourism-led growth hypothesis, whereas there is an inverted U-shape relationship for severe disaster-affected counties. Furthermore, the spatial spillover effects of tourism are insignificant. Plausible explanations of these results are discussed and policy suggestions are provided.
Gastrointestinal helminths in horses in Serbia and various factors affecting the prevalence
Authors: Ilić Tamara , Bogunović Danica , Nenadović Katarina , Gajić Bojan , Dimitrijević Sanda , Popović Gorana , Kulišić Zoran , Milosavljević Petar
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was an epizootiological screening and determination of parasitological state of horses in the territory of the Republic of Serbia. In the period from April 2017 to December 2018, parasitological examination of 548 samples from horses of different breed, age and sex from four regions and 18 districts of the country was performed. Coprological diagnostic was done by using qualitative methods without concentration and qualitative methods with concentration of parasitic elements. Quantification of obtained results was performed using semi-qualitative faecal egg count. Four helminthoses were detected in the examined samples: P. equorum (8.57%), O. equi (3.65%), strongylid eggs (71.17%) and Anoplocephala spp. (0.91%). The total prevalence of helminthoses was 77.19%. Monoinfections were significantly more present 70.07% compared to coinfections (7.12%). Obtained results are of great contribution to clinical parasitology and pathology, especially from the aspect of animal health, welfare and preservation of horse population.
Aquatic Toxicity of Hydroquinone and Catechol Following Metal Oxide Treatment to Ceriodaphnia dubia and Pimephales promelas
Authors: Abugazleh Mohd Kotaiba , Ali Hashim M. , Chester Jae A. , Bouldin Jennifer L.
Published: April 2022

Metal oxides comprise a large group of chemicals used in water treatment to adsorb organic pollutants. The effects of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) to reduce the chronic toxicity of (phenolic) C6H6(OH)2 isomers, namely hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CAT) to Ceriodaphnia dubia and Pimephales promelas were investigated. The toxic endpoints following metal oxide treatment were compared to endpoints of untreated CAT and HQ. Chronic toxicity testing to HQ resulted in greater toxicity than CAT for both test organisms; the median lethal concentrations (LC50) for CAT were 3.66 to 12.36 mg.L− 1 for C. dubia and P. promelas, respectively, while LC50s for HQ were 0.07 to 0.05 mg.L− 1, respectively. Despite both treated solutions presented lower toxic endpoints than those in the untreated solutions, Fe2O3 had a better potential to reduce the toxic effects of CAT and HQ than TiO2.
Dynapenia of Ankle Muscles Negatively Affects Static Balance in Old Age
Authors: Skeparianos Alexandros , Amiridis Ioannis , Violaris Petros , Tsabalaki Zoi , Salonikidis Konstantinos , Negro Francesco , Hatzitaki Vassilia
Published: April 2022

Background
The maintenance of balance and mobility is essential in preserving physical capacities and daily activities in elderly. The assessment of potential contributors causing poor balance and mobility could help to identify people with an increased risk of sustaining injuries and falls. Previous research have found inconsistent findings regarding the relatinship between the lower-extremity muscle strength and postural control. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between ankle muscles strength and postural tasks of increasing difficulty in elderly.
Methods
Forty-three elderly adults (20 women) performed maximal isometric plantarflexions and dorsiflexions and 3 postural tasks: normal quiet stance (60s), tandem stance (20s), and one-legged stance (10s) on a pressure platform. Postural sway was quantified using center of pressure velocity, total path, sway area, sway ellipse, peak-to-peak amplitude and standard deviation of center of pressure displacement in anterior/posterior and medio/lateral direction. The weight distribution was also quantified as an index of asymmetry in both directions. Surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of the Tibialis Anterior, Medial Gastrocnemius, Rectus Femoris and Semitendinosus was recorded during posture.
Results
Across balance tasks, the greater the posture variables, the less the isometric plantar and dorsiflexion torque (p < 0.001). When narrowing the base of support, all postural variables and EMG activity increased significantly (p < 0.01), the increase was greater in ankle muscles than in hip muscles (p < 0.0005). During normal quiet stance (r = .683) and tandem stance (r = .641), the more symmetrical the weight distribution between the two legs, the higher the center of pressure velocity.
Conclusion
It is concluded that ankle muscles strength, could be considered a reliable predictor of the static balance control, especially when postural requirements relate to a narrower stance. Hence, the improvement of plantar flexors and dorsiflexors strength, but not the pursuit of an absolute symmetry of weight distribution, may be particularly beneficial for improving static balance control in old age.
Effect of Zinc oxide on thermal conductivity and dielectric properties For Epoxy/palm oil Composite in engineering application
Authors: ali nadia abbas , Hassan Diyar J.
Published: April 2022

The dielectric properties of epoxy/palm oil fiber composites at different concentrations 1,3,5, and 10% by weight, and frequency ranging from 100 Hz to 1000kHz.Epoxy, zinc oxide and oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB)fiber composites were prepared by hand –lay up into sheets. The effects of incorporated fibers on the electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity of the composites were investigated. The electrical conductivity of the composites decreased with increasing OPEFB fiber content. Despite the slight decrease in conductivity, the composites still sufficiently conductive relatively to applications such as sensors after the fiber addition, the thermal conductivity increased to 0.41 W/m.k which was observed with the addition of 10% OPEFB fiber composites, and increased for hybridization of oil palm EFB with zinc oxide allows an increased in thermal conductivity of oil palm composites and their dielectric constant and dispersion factor increases with frequency. AC breakdown strength increased and then decreased as a mass fraction of Zinc oxide increase.
Impact of the Primary Care residents on the productivity of the ambulatory health centres in Portugal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Reis Ivo , Envia Gonçalo , Santos Paulo
Published: April 2022

Background
The presence of residents in Primary Care health centres may influence their operational results.
Aim
To establish the relationship between the presence of residents and the results of the evaluation in Portuguese Primary Care Health Centres.
Methods
We conduct a cross-sectional study, comparing the results achieved by the mainland Portuguese Primary Care Health Centres measured by the Global Performance Index (Índice de desempenho global – IDG) by the presence of General & Family Medicine residents in training. Analysis took in consideration the region and typology of the health centres.
Results
We evaluated 906 units, 55.7% involved in the training of General & Family Medicine internship. The presence of residents was associated with higher Global Performance Index values (77.3 vs 57.6; p < 0.001). The higher difference was found in the less developed Personalized Health Care Units and in the region of Lisbon and Tagus Valley.
Conclusion
The presence of residents in training is a relevant factor in the productivity of the Primary Health Care facilities. It may model the asymmetry in the performance of Portuguese Health Centres.
Polymer Catalyst with Double "Zipper" Conformations for Formatting Substrate-Sieving Catalytic Ability
Authors: Zhang Ziwen , Zhang Yuan , Shen Xiaojuan , Zhu Maiyong , Li Songjun
Published: April 2022

This study is aimed at booming intelligent catalysts, suggesting a bio-inspired polymer catalyst with substrate-sieving catalytic ability. By mimicking the hierarchical multi-level structures in biopolymers, this polymer catalyst was fabricated with metal nanoparticles and double "zipper" conformations individually made of polymeric hydrogen bonds and complexing interactions. Owing to the discrepant strength of both interactions against temperature, the double zipper conformations led to a hierarchical disruption of the two interactions and stepwise disaggregation of the polymeric networks and as a result the substrate-sieving catalytic ability. This catalyst didn't present effective catalysis at low temperatures because of the blocked networks. With the increasing temperatures, this catalyst would first present catalysis towards small molecules of substrate and then further towards bigger molecules of substrate, by virtue of the hierarchical disruption of the weaker hydrogen bonds and the stronger complexing interactions. In this way, this catalyst assumed the substrate-sieving catalytic ability. The protocol of this catalyst suggests a prospect to modulate the catalytic proceedings, particularly for complicated processes.
Elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio induced by tumor and immune cells promotes gastric cancer progression during PD-1 antibody-based treatment
Authors: Zhou Chenfei , Yang Hui , Guo Liting , Cai Qu , Xi Wenqi , Liu Jing , Yuan Fei , Zhang Huan , Yan Chao , Zhu Zhenggang , Zhang Jun , Huang Lei , Shi Yan
Published: April 2022

Biomarkers of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in advanced gastric cancer (AGC) are under investigation. In present study, correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and efficacy of ICIs treatment in AGC patients as well as its underlying mechanisms were investigated based on clinical cases and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. NLRs early after treatment were correlated with disease progression and poor progression-free survival (PFS) of AGC patients. Neutrophil cluster1 (NE-C1) divided by scRNA-seq was the major cluster in peripheral blood samples and its proportion increased after PD-1 antibody treatment. NE-C1 had a neutrophil activation phenotype with high expression of MMP9, S100A8, S100A9, PORK2, and TGF-β1. Subclusters of malignant epithelial cells (EP-C4) and M2 macrophages (MF-C1, MF-C2) showed high neutrophil activating phenotypes. Strong interactions among NE-C1, EP-C4, MF-C1 and MF-C2 were identified. In summary, posttreatment NLR can be an early prognostic biomarker of AGC patients treated by PD-1 antibody-based therapy. Neutrophils activated by both tumor cells and M2 macrophages participate in promoting gastric cancer progression during PD-1 antibody-based treatment.
Genetic evidence for a causal relationship between obesity and obstructive sleep apnea with individual level data: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yin Shankai , Li Xinyi , Wang Tao , Jin Li , Wu Kejia , Li Chenyang , Li Zhiqiang , Hu Cheng , Yi Hongliang , Guan Jian , Xu Huajun
Published: April 2022

Background: Both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity are highly prevalent worldwide, and are intrinsically linked. Previous studies showed that obesity is one of the major risk factors for OSA, but the causality of the relationship is still unclear. The study was to investigate the causal relationships of overall obesity and abdominal obesity with OSA and its quantitative traits. Methods: In this case-control study, a total of 7,134 participants, including 4,335 moderate-to-severe OSA diagnosed by standard polysomnography and 2,799 community-based controls were enrolled. Anthropometric and biochemical data were collected. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed using the genetic risk score, based on 29 body mass index (BMI)- and 11 waist-hip-ratio (WHR)-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms as instrumental variables. The causal associations of these genetic scores with OSA and its quantitative phenotypes were analyzed. Results: Obesity was strongly correlated with OSA in observational analysis (β= 0.055, P = 3.7 × 10−5). In MR analysis, each increase by one standard deviation in BMI was associated with increased OSA risk [odds ratio (OR): 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.62–3.02, P = 5.57 × 10−7] and with 2.72-, 4.68-, and 3.25-fold increases in AHI, ODI, and MAI, respectively (all P < 0.05) in men. However, no causal associations were found between WHR and OSA risk or OSA quantitative traits in men and women. Conclusions: Compared to abdominal obesity, overall obesity showed a causal relationship with OSA and its quantitative traits, especially in men.
C3P-RPL: A collaborative and proactive approach for optimal peer to peer path selection and sustenance.
Authors: T Anusha , M Pushpalatha
Published: April 2022

Internet of Things is evolving from information gathering platforms into collaborative systems where smart devices actively interact with each other in a seamless manner. For instance, Internet of Robotic Things is envisioned to provide augmented solutions through collaboration of varied smart devices and robots. These visions revolve around the ability of smart devices to directly communicate and cooperate with each other in real time. In this context, this paper is an attempt to study RPL’s point to point routing that creates multi-hop paths between peer nodes. This standard routing protocol is known for robust and failsafe upward paths but its peer to peer (P2P) routes are reported to be sub optimal. This work assesses P2P performance of RPL’s storing mode in a network of new generation devices having higher memory. Further, a Collaborative and Proactive Peer to Peer (C3P) path selection and sustenance approach is proposed where root node collates incremental topology from collaborative nodes and disseminates optimal single source shortest path trees SPT(n). A progressive node betweenness centrality score ensures spread out paths. Minor topology changes are accommodated through incremental node and edge updates to targeted SPT(n) locally. Storing SPTs in intermediate nodes reduces storage and packet size. Through simulations and testbed experiments, it is proven that C3P-RPL improves simultaneous peer to peer communication between all the nodes. Specifically, the path length is reduced by 30% and subsequently the network latency drops by 65% in an experimental testbed of 47 nodes, making it suitable for collaborations.
Rhamnus crenata leaves exhibit anti-inflammatory activity via modulating the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF- κB/MAPK signaling pathways
Authors: Kim Da Som , Eo Hyun Ji , Park Gwang Hun
Published: April 2022

Rhamnus crenata Siebold & Zucc. (RC), which belongs to the Rhamnaceae family, is distributed in China, Japan, and Korea. There have been no studies on mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of RC. Here, we aimed to elucidate the potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of RC using RAW264.7 cells. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of a 70% ethanol extract of RC leaves (RC-L) and elucidated the potential signaling pathways in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells. RC-L exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, such as inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production; it dose-dependently decreased NO production by suppressing the expression of inducible NO synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin 1β, and tumor necrosis factor alpha in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Additionally, RC-L inhibited nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation and the degradation and phosphorylation of NF-κB inhibitor alpha and suppressed the phosphorylation of p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Furthermore, it increased the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). These results suggest that RC-L exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways and inducing Nrf2/HO-1 expression and could act as a natural anti-inflammatory drug.
Antibiotic resistance and carriage class I integron in clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii from Al muthanna, Iraq
Authors: Alabdali Yasir Adil Jabbar
Published: April 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Clinical frailty assessment might be associated with mortality in incident dialysis patients
Authors: Hamasaki Yoshifumi , Oki Rikako , Tsuji Shiho , Suzuki Kana , Tsuneishi Sumika , Imafuku Mikie , Komaru Yohei , Miyamoto Yoshihisa , Matsuura Ryo , Doi Kent , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Frailty is associated with mortality in maintenance dialysis patients. We investigated frailty using the clinical frailty scale (CFS) as related to mortality or hospitalization within two years in incident dialysis patients.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients initiating hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis during 2016–2018. Based on the medical records, two dialysis nurses independently used a 9-point CFS (1 = “Very fit” to 9 = “Terminally ill”) to assess each patient’s frailty at dialysis initiation. Patients with a mean CFS value of 5 or higher were classified as the frailty group. Results: The analysis included 155 incident dialysis patients with mean age of 66.7±14.1 (71% male). Frailty was determined in 43 (28%) patients at dialysis initiation. Kaplan–Meier analyses showed that the survival and hospitalization-free rate within two years was significantly lower in the frailty group than in the non-frailty group (p < .01). Cox proportional hazards regression analyses revealed the CFS score as associated with the occurrence of a composite outcome, independently of age (hazard ratio 1.34, 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.72).Conclusion: Frailty assessment based on clinical judgment using CFS might predict adverse outcomes in the dialysis-initiated patients.
Unusual Behavior of Subfoveal Perfluorcarbon Liquid
Authors: Ghoraba Hamouda Hamdy , HamoudaGhoraba Hashem , Zaky Adel Galal
Published: April 2022

Purpose: To report unprompted closure of spontaneous macular hole secondary to inadvertent subfoveal perfluorocarbon after vitrectomy surgery.Patients& Methods: We present a case of a retained large single subfoveal PFCL droplet following vitrectomy and silicone oil injection for subtotal rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) that showed spontaneous release 4 weeks postoperatively, with subsequent development of full thickness macular hole (FTMH) which completely closed later on after silicone oil removal without internal limiting membrane peeling.Results: Marvelous anatomic and visual improvement after spontaneous closure of MH.Discussion: Few complications have been associated with use of PFCLs. The most common is postoperative residual PFCL in vitreous cavity or in the anterior chamber. Subretinal retention of PFCL has been reported and it has the most significant ocular toxicity but spontaneous release of subfoveal PFCL without surgical interference has rarely been reported.Conclusion: Different behaviors of subfoveal PFC droplets may occur.
The linear and non-linear effects of cumulative Stressors and Traumas on Psychopathology: Are they mostly mediated by the centrality of event and existential anxieties
Authors: Kira Ibrahim Aref , Shuwiekh Hanaa , Amthal Al-Huwailah , Özcan Neslihan Arıcı , Kanaan Amer , Kucharska Justyna
Published: April 2022

Objective
The study aimed to clarify and refine the concepts of cumulative stressors and trauma (CST), the centrality of an event to an identity (COE), the existential annihilation anxieties (EAA), and psychopathology. The study aimed to propose and test a model in which CST affects psychopathology directly but mostly indirectly through COE and the four different types of identity-based EAA (personal/ psychic identity, collective identity, physical identity, and status identity EAA's). Further, the study aimed to replicate the previous finding that the non-linear model of CST's effects on internalizing, externalizing, and thought disorders (the psychopathology three major components) explains more variance than the linear model.
Method
Using path analysis, PROCESS mediation analysis, curve estimation regression, on a combined sample (N = 1566) from Egypt (N = 490), Turkey (N = 420), Kuwait (N = 300), Syria (N = 179), and the UK (N = 177), we tested the study assumptions.
Results
Status identity EAA and the other types of EAA related to different identities and COE mediated the major part of CST impact on psychopathology; with "status identity, EAA" had the strongest effect size. The non-linear model of the impact of CST's cumulative dynamics on psychopathology, internalizing, externalizing, thought disorders, and physical health accounted for much more variance than the linear model.
Conclusions
Results supported the proposed assumptions. The implications of these results for a paradigm shift in understanding stress and traumatization dynamics that go beyond the current linear approach with the sole focus on a single past stressor or traumatic stressor were discussed.