bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D receptor and vitamin D binding protein gene polymorphisms in patients with asthma
Authors: Daina Bastyte , Laura Tamasauskiene , Ieva Golubickaite , Rasa Ugenskiene , Brigita Sitkauskiene
Published: December 2022

Background.
Vitamin D and its metabolites are transported to tissues and cells bound to a specific vitamin D binding protein (VDBP also known as GC-globulin). Most biological actions of this vitamin are exerted through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Polymorphisms in VDR or VDBP genes may affect vitamin D level, influencing the pathogenesis of asthma. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible association of VDR and VDBP gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, blood eosinophils and total IgE level in subject with asthma in comparison with healthy individuals.
Methods.
In total 63 subjects with asthma (45 allergic and 18 non-allergic) and 32 healthy subjects were involved in the study. Sensitization of subjects to inhaled allergens was determined by skin prick test, lung function was evaluated by spirometry. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, total IgE levels were evaluated by ELISA. Eosinophils evaluation were performed on an automated hematology analyzer (Sysmex, Japan). DNA was isolated using the QIAamp DNA blood mini kit. Polymorphisms in the VDR and VDBP gene on the 12q13.11 chromosomal region were analyzed using TaqMan SNP Genotyping Assay probes.
Results.
We observed lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level in patients with allergic asthma and non-allergic asthma compared to healthy subjects (13.96 ± 0.79 ng/ml and 15.35 ± 0.99 ng/ml vs 22.55 ± 1.23 ng/ml, p < 0.01). In asthma patients with vitamin D deficient (< 20 ng/ml) the allele G of Rs11168293 on VDR was more common than in those having insufficiency (20–30 ng/ml) of vitamin D (62.9% and 31.3%, p < 0.05). Moreover, asthmatic subject with Rs11168293 G allele has significant higher blood eosinophil count (% of leukocytes) compared to asthmatic without the Rs11168293 G allele (8.45 ± 12.27% vs 5.14 ± 1.52%, p < 0.05). Significantly higher IgE level was found in subjects with allergic asthma with the allele A of Rs7041 on VDBP gene than in those without this allele (536.4 ± 106.1 and 239.0 ± 75.8 IU/ml, p < 0.05).
Conclusions.
The association of polymorphisms in VDBP and VDR gene, the rs11168293 G allele and the rs7041 A allele, with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, blood eosinophil and total IgE level in asthma, let us suggest that vitamin D, VDR and VDBP gene polymorphisms are important in pathogenesis of asthma despite its form in relation to atopy.
Vicia articulata, a traditional crop legume, near extinction, found in Santorini (Thera), Greece; possible implication for archaeobotany/ palaeoethnobotany and its great value for its future need in agriculture.
Authors: Sarpaki Anaya , Skoula Melpo , Katsipis Sampson
Published: December 2022

Vicia articulate Horne. a not highly domesticated legume, which is used as green manure, fodder and, in times of stress, as food, is in the process of extinction. Although it was mentioned as cultivated up to the 1950s in many parts of Greece, lately, the only area, which is known to still cultivate it, is on the Cycladic island of Santorini, Thera, and referred to as ‘lentil’.
The aim of this paper is threefold: a) to intercept its extinction, as it is an excellent plant for green manuring and fodder and enriches, the soil with nutrients and humidity, under arid conditions. Its importance in agriculture and husbandry needs to be redressed. It produces even under ≤ 300 mm of rain, which is of utmost importance in times of Climate Change. B) to draw the attention of archaeobotanists to pay more attention in identifying lentil-type legumes in the archaeological contexts, and widen our knowledge on the legumes cultivated in the past, as well as build their biographies regarding their domestication trajectories and use. C) Call for the attention of ethnobotanists, archaeobotanists and farmers to cooperate, protect and promote traditional systems of agriculture, which are more sustainable, in arid environments.
Diversity of individuals' methylation patterns to different moisture regimes in Einkorn wheat revealed by CRED-RA technique
Authors: Hosseini Narges , Zarei Leila , Cheghamirza Kianoosh
Published: December 2022

Among the wild relatives of wheat, diploid species with desirable characteristics have high potential in crop modification. One of the important epigenetic changes that is associated with the pattern of gene expression and causes genetic instability is DNA methylation. The coupled restriction enzyme digestion-random amplification (CRED-RA) technique and five RAPD primers were used to study methylation changes in two Einkorn wheat genotypes including S10 and H9 genotypes and four soil water availability treatments included control, mild, moderate and severe stress (irrigation at 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of field capacity, respectively) in two stages (14 days after water deficiency and 14 days after re-watering). The experiment was laid out as 2×4 factorial experiment within completely randomized design replicated three times. Measured physiological traits included relative leaf water content, Fv / Fm and stomatal conductance. After 14 days of exposure to drought stress, the results showed that the lowest relative water content of leaves, Fv/Fm and stomatal conductance were related to severe stress treatment. Also, S10 genotype was superior to H9 after application of moisture stress treatments and after re-watering. Different patterns of methylation were observed in different replications of each treatments in response to severe water deficiency, which can be due to the diversity of individuals' response to stress and the specificity of epigenetics changes. Most of the fragments that showed a change in methylation pattern due to water deficiency, after stress removal, returned to the state before stress, which indicates the reversibility of methylation changes in the genome.
An optimized workflow for MS-based quantitative proteomics of challenging clinical bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples
Authors: Weise Danielle O. , Kruk Monica E. , Higgins LeeAnn , Markowski Todd W. , Jagtap Pratik D. , Mehta Subina , Mickelson Alan , Parker Laurie L. , Wendt Christine H. , Griffin Timothy J.
Published: December 2022

BackgroundClinical Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples are rich in biomolecules, including proteins, and useful for molecular studies of lung health and disease. However, mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic analysis of BALF is challenged by the dynamic range of protein abundance, and potential for interfering contaminants. A robust, MS-based proteomics compatible sample preparation workflow for BALF samples, including those of small and large volume, would be useful for many researchers.ResultsWe have developed a workflow that combines high abundance protein depletion, protein trapping, clean-up, andin-situtryptic digestion, that is compatible with either qualitative or quantitative MS-based proteomic analysis. The workflow includes a value-added collection of endogenous peptides for peptidomic analysis of BALF samples, if desired, as well as amenability to offline semi-preparative or microscale fractionation of complex peptide mixtures prior to LC-MS/MS analysis, for increased depth of analysis. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this workflow on BALF samples collected from COPD patients, including for smaller sample volumes of 1-5 mL that are commonly available from the clinic. We also demonstrate the repeatability of the workflow as an indicator of its utility for quantitative proteomic studies.ConclusionsOverall, our described workflow consistently provided high quality proteins and tryptic peptides for MS analysis. It should enable researchers to apply MS-based proteomics to a wide-variety of studies focused on BALF clinical specimens.
A Retrospective Analysis of the Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Surgically Treated Acetabular Fractures using the Modified Stoppa Approach
Authors: Cetin Huzeyfe , Abdallah Anas , Ucan Vahdet , Kara Deniz , Elmadag Nuh Mehmet
Published: December 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of acetabular fractures treated with the modified Stoppa approach (mSA) at our department.
Methods: At our institution, the medical charts of patients diagnosed with an acetabular fracture were reviewed retrospectively. Patients who underwent surgery with the mSA between 2012 and 2020 were selected as core samples of this study.
Results: In total, 40 patients (24 males and 16 females) were operated on consecutively. The mean age was 37.4± 16.3 years. The mean preoperative duration was 4.5 ± 2.9 days. The mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accidents in 22 patients (55%). According to the Judet–Letournel classification, ten patients had fractures with anterior and posterior column types. According to Matta's criteria, the anatomical reduction achieved in 30 patients (75.0%) was poor in four and was imperfect in six. According to Matta's radiological staging, radiographic outcomes in 23 patients were excellent. The radiological stage was significantly better in elementary fractures than in complex fractures (p = 0.02). Merle d'Aubigné’s hip score was excellent in 17 patients. Harris hip score was excellent in 22 patients, good in 15, moderate in two and poor in one. Intraoperative iliac vein injury developed in two patients, postoperative superficial infection in one and inguinal hernia developed in two during a mean follow-up period of 32.6± 23.9 months.
Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the mSA is an appropriate treatment approach for many complicated acetabular fractures. This approach gave acceptable radiological and functional outcomes for the selected patients.
Maternal apparent temperature during pregnancy on the risk of offspring asthma and wheezing: effect, critical window, and modifiers
Authors: Zhang Jiatao , Bai Shuoxin , Lin Shaoqian , Cui Liangliang , Zhao Xiaodong , Du Shuang , Wang Zhiping
Published: December 2022

The objective of this study was to explore the impact of maternal AT during pregnancy on childhood asthma and wheezing, as well as the potential effect modifiers in this association. A cross-sectional study was implemented from December 2018 to March 2019 in Jinan to investigate the prevalence of childhood asthma and wheezing among aged 18 months to 3 years. Then, we conducted a case-control study based on population to explore the association between prenatal different AT exposure levels and childhood asthma and wheezing. The association was assessed by generalized additive model and logistic regression model, and stratified analyses were performed to explore potential effect modifiers. A total of 12,384 vaccinated children participated in screening for asthma and wheezing, and 236 cases were screened, as well as 1445 controls were randomized. After adjusting for the covariates, childhood asthma and wheezing was significantly associated with cold exposure in the first trimester, with OR 1.750 (95% CI: 1.145–2.673), and cold exposure and heat exposure in the third trimester, with ORs 1.583 (95% CI: 1.013–2.474) and 2.124 (95% CI: 1.415–3.188). In the third trimester, enhanced impacts were found among girls, children whose distance of residence was close to the nearest main traffic road, children whose mothers never had vitamin D supplementation, and children whose parents have asthma. The study indicates that exposure to extreme AT during the first trimester and the third trimester could increase the risk of childhood asthma and wheezing.
Prevalence, Symptoms and Professional Profile of the Burnout Syndrome among Healthcare Professionals during the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Puigtió-Rebollo Núria , Serdà-Ferrer Bernat Carles , Gacto-Sánchez Mariano
Published: December 2022

The Burnout Syndrome (BOS) is a psycho-emotional disorder generating sustained stress over time, and inability to cope with the demands in an adaptive manner. The aims of the study were (1) to describe the prevalence of BOS during the third COVID-19 pandemic wave (May-June 2021); (2) to explore the relation of BOS with physical symptoms, and (3) to determine the profile favoring the development of BOS. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted amongst a sample of 759 healthcare professionals (HCPs). Data on sociodemographic variables, physical symptoms, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, Cervical Disability Index, and Numeric Pain Rating Scale were collected. The prevalence of BOS was 58.9% (447 subjects); 382 subjects (50.3%) showed high levels of Emotional Exhaustion (EE), whereas 219 participants (28.9%) had high Depersonalization (DP) levels, whilst 135 individuals (17.8%) showed low levels of Personal Fulfillment (PF). Women showed higher levels of EE (Z=-3.46; p = 0.001), whilst men showed higher levels of DP (Z=-2.69; p = 0.007). A total of 579 participants (76.3%) experienced muscle pain. A young nurse working in a hospital, or an emergency department emerges as a specific vulnerable profile. The current study confirms the need to overcome BOS in HCPs, implementing multidimensional tailored intervention to decrease the symptoms.
Respiratory system Talaromyces marneffei infection in HIV-negative children
Authors: Yang Qin , Wu Yue , Li Xiaonan , Bao Yanmin , Wang Wenjian , Zheng Yuejie
Published: December 2022

Background
Respiratory symptoms are the earliest clinical manifestation of Talaromyces marneffei (TM) infection. In this study, we aimed to improve the early identification of TM infection in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative children with respiratory symptoms as the first manifestation, analyze the risk factors, and provide evidence for diagnosis and treatment.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed six cases of HIV-negative children with respiratory system infection symptoms as the first presentation.
Results
All subjects (100%) had cough and hepatosplenomegaly, and five subjects (83.3%) had a fever; other symptoms included lymph node enlargement, rash, rales, wheezing, hoarseness, hemoptysis, anemia, and thrush. Additionally, 66.7% of the cases had underlying diseases (three had malnutrition, one had severe combined immune deficiency [SCID]). The most common coinfecting pathogen was Pneumocystis carinii, which occurred in two cases (33.3%), followed by one case of Aspergillus (16.6%). Furthermore, the value of β-D-glucan detection (G experimental) increased in 50% of the cases, while the proportion of NK decreased in six cases (100%). Five children (83.3%) were confirmed to have the pathogenic genetic mutations. Three children (50%) were treated with amphotericin B, voriconazole, and itraconazole, respectively; three children (50%) were treated with voriconazole and itraconazole. All children were tested for itraconazole and voriconazole plasma concentrations throughout antifungal therapy. Two cases (33.3%) relapsed after drug withdrawal within 1 year, and the average duration of antifungal treatment for all children was 17.7 months.
Conclusion
The first manifestation of TM infection in children is respiratory symptoms, which are nonspecific and easily misdiagnosed. When the effectiveness of anti-infection treatment is poor for recurrent respiratory tract infections, we must consider the condition with an opportunistic pathogen and attempt to identify the pathogen using various samples and detection
Exponential concentration and untrainability in quantum kernel methods
Authors: Thanasilp Supanut , Wang Samson , Cerezo Marco , Holmes Zoë
Published: December 2022

Kernel methods in Quantum Machine Learning (QML) have recently gained significant attention as a potential candidate for achieving a quantum advantage in data analysis. Among other attractive properties, when training a kernel-based model one is guaranteed to find the optimal model's parameters due to the convexity of the training landscape. However, this is based on the assumption that the quantum kernel can be efficiently obtained from a quantum hardware. In this work we study the trainability of quantum kernels from the perspective of the resources needed to accurately estimate kernel values. We show that, under certain conditions, values of quantum kernels over different input data can be exponentially concentrated (in the number of qubits) towards some fixed value, leading to an exponential scaling of the number of measurements required for successful training. We identify four sources that can lead to concentration including: the expressibility of data embedding, global measurements, entanglement and noise. For each source, an associated concentration bound of quantum kernels is analytically derived. Lastly, we show that when dealing with classical data, training a parametrized data embedding with a kernel alignment method is also susceptible to exponential concentration. Our results are verified through numerical simulations for several QML tasks. Altogether, we provide guidelines indicating that certain features should be avoided to ensure the efficient evaluation and the trainability of quantum kernel methods.
Glucose Solution Through the Hepatic Artery May Focus Irreversible Electroporation Into the Tumor. A Preliminary Safety and Efficacy Evaluation
Authors: Sarreshtehdari Amirhossein , Burdio Fernando , López-Alonso Borja , Lucía Óscar , Burdio José Miguel , Villamonte María , Andaluz A. , García-Arnas F. , Berjano E. , Moll Xavier
Published: December 2022

Tissue electrical properties like impedance greatly impact irreversible electroporation (IRE) function. Infusion of glucose solution 5% (GS5%) through the Hepatic artery would focus IRE on scattered tumors of the liver. By creating a differential impedance between healthy and tumor tissue. This study aimed to determine the effects of the GS5% protocol on the liver and its safety. 21 male Athymic nude rats Hsd: RH-Foxn1mu were used in the study. Animals were split into two groups. In group 1, a continuous infusion through the gastroduodenal artery of GS5% was performed to measure the impedance with a dose of 0.008 mL/g for 16 minutes. In group 2, the animals were divided into two subgroups for infusions of GS5%. Group 2.1, at 0.008 mL/g for 16 minutes. Group 2.2 at 0.03 ml/g for 4 minutes. Blood samples were collected after anesthesia has been induced. The second sample, after catheterization of the artery, and the third after the GS5% infusion. All the animals were sacrificed to collect histological samples. The survival rate during the experiment was 100%. A considerable impact on the impedance of the tissue was noticed, on average up to 4.31 times more than the baseline, and no side effects were observed after GS5% infusion. In conclusion, to decrease IRE’s side effects on healthy tissue (without portal irrigation), GS5% could be a practical therapeutic solution.
Lima Bean International Network: From the origin to the plant breeding
Authors: Martínez-Castillo Jaime , Araujo Ademir S. F. , Chacón-Sánchez María I. , Santos Luis G. , Lopes Angela C. A. , Gibson Kimberly , Gomes Regina L. F. , Andueza-Noh Rubén H. , Bitochi Elena , Ballina-Gómez Horacio S. , Peralta Eduardo , Ormeño-Orrillo Ernesto , Espinoza Luz , Nieto Carlos , Murillo Angel , Jadán-Veriñas Eudaldo , García Tatiana , Duitama Jorge , Aguirre-Liguori Jonás A. , León-Cadena Andrea , Castañeda-Alvarez Nora , Debouck Daniel G.
Published: December 2022

Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) is the second most important domesticated species of Phaseolus in the world and could represent a precious alternative for food security and quality, as well as play a major role for sustainability in the face of climate change in Latin America and worldwide. Currently, many experts on conservation, domestication, genetic improvement, and plant-rhizosphere relationship of Lima bean have been working alone or in small groups. This situation has limited obtaining a greater benefit from their research and strongly prompts the study of the Lima bean worldwide. To increase the collaboration between experts in the study of the Lima bean, we present the Lima Bean International Network (LBIN). The main objectives of LBIN are to deepen the knowledge on this species and to promote its use worldwide. The success of LBIN will depend on the collaboration of the international scientific community interested in the study of Lima bean. Hence, we invite people from different sectors of society (researchers, producers, companies, NGOs, governments) to participate in this initiative. To get more information, you can visit https://www.cicy.mx/sitios/red-internacional-frijol-lima
The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Mental Health Care Utilization: A Propensity Matched Analysis of National Data
Authors: Kureshi Nelofar , Clarke David B. , Feng Cindy
Published: December 2022

Background: Mental health disorders are a common sequelae of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and are associated with worse health outcomes including increased mental health care utilization. This study addresses the methodical limitations of previous studies by examining the effect of TBI on mental health care utilization using propensity score matching analysis.
Methods: Using data from a national survey, this study assessed mental health care utilization among those with a TBI, compared with a non-injured control group. Propensity score matching for age, sex, education, income, marital status, race, mental health comorbidities, and chronic conditions in a 4:1 ratio using nearest neighbor was performed. Conditional logistic regression then compared matched patients in terms of mental health care utilization. E-value sensitivity analysis was used to assess how strong an unmeasured confounder would have to be to explain away an observed relationship.
Results: The matched study sample included 76,727 TBI patients and 307,510 non-injured controls with significantly improved balance in all baseline covariates. After conditional regression of the propensity-matched cohort, TBI remained a significant predictor of mental health care utilization (95% CI, 1.38-3.67), showing a 2.25-fold increased probability of mental health care utilization in TBI patients.
Conclusions: This study is the first to evaluate the probability of mental health care utilization in TBI patients through a well-matched national cohort. TBI patients were more than twice as likely to use health care services for mental health complaints relative to those who were uninjured. Further longitudinal research is needed to evaluate the long-term mental health care utilization of TBI patients.
Parameter Optimization of Gas Metal Arc Welding Process for Welding Dissimilar Steels
Authors: Tesfaye Fasil Kebede
Published: December 2022

This work attempts to optimize the welding process parameters for a dissimilar metal joint made of duplex stainless steel (DSS) to grade ASTM/UNS S32205 and weathering steel CORTEN-A to grade ASTM A242. Such a dissimilar metal joint finds use in the transportation sector, particularly in the construction of rail cars. The study has taken into account the square butt joint between 2 mm thick sheets welded using the gas metal arc welding (GMAW) process with CO2 as the shielding gas and flux cored wire of grade 309L as the filler material. The tensile strength of the resulting weld joint, which was the desired quality characteristic, was optimized using the L9 Taguchi array. For optimization, GMAW process parameters like voltage, wire feed rate, and welding speed at three levels are taken into account. Using ANOVA, the effects of each factor have been studied. It was found that the ideal set of parameters exists, and that the voltage is the most crucial factor. A confirmation test was carried out to verify the results, and it was wrapped up with a figure and tables.
Predictive value of properties of resected parathyroid glands for persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism during parathyroidectomy
Authors: Huang Yaoyu , Wang Jing , Zeng Ming , Wan Huiting , Wang Ningning , Yang Guang
Published: December 2022

Background
Parathyroidectomy (PTX), an effective treatment for refractory secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, still has a high persistent rate. This study aimed to analyse the predictive value of properties of resected parathyroid glands for postoperative persistent SHPT.
Methods
The clinical data of 267 patients (62 persistent SHPT patients and 165 successful PTX controls) who received total parathyroidectomy with forearm autotransplantation (TPTX + AT) was retrospectively collected. The properties including the number, minimum weight, maximum weight and total weight of resected parathyroid glands from each patient were recorded. Properties and cutoff value of resected parathyroid glands for the prediction of persistent SHPT were analysed.
Results
41 (66.13%) persistent SHPT cases related to supernumerary parathyroid and the remaining 21 (33.87%) cases related to residual undetected parathyroid. In addition, ectopic parathyroid was found in 8 patients (12.90%) before PTX. The averages of resected glands in the persistent SHPT group and in the successful PTX group were 3.53 ± 0.72 and 3.93 ± 0.25 respectively (t = 4.302, p < 0.001). There was significance in the number of patients who had 2, 3, and 4 glands resected between two groups (χ2 = 33.891, p < 0.001). The number of removed glands fewer than 4 might increase the risk of persistent SHPT. When the resected gland number was 4, minimum weight of the parathyroid was noted to be heavier in the persistent SHPT group than that in the successful PTX group (0.52 ± 0.31 vs. 0.38 ± 0.19, t = -2.733, p < 0.001). For persistent SHPT prediction, cutoff value of minimum weight of total 4 resected glands was 0.535 g, with sensitivity of 46.3% and specificity of 81.8% (AUC = 0.611; p = 0.029).
Conclusions
Major reason for persistent SHPT is the existence of supernumerary parathyroid in this study. The number of resected glands fewer than 4 might also increase the risk of persistent SHPT. There may be a missed supernumerary parathyroid gland left when 4 parathyroid glands were detected along with minimum parathyroid weight heavier than 0.535 g.
Influence of the contact area of the sub-antral space with sinus bone and the Schneiderian membrane on osteogenesis in lateral window sinus elevation surgery: A prospective experiment
Authors: She Xiao , Zhang Dongjiao , Xu Xin , Zhang Zhanwei , Ji Chonghao , Li Zechuan , Song Dawei
Published: December 2022

Background
Osteogenesis of lateral window sinus elevation surgery is the key to placement of the subsequent implant, excessive collapse of the sub-antral space may adversely affect long-term stability of implants. At present, few studies focus on the influence of the contact area of the sub-antral space on osteogenesis. This study evaluated whether the change in the contact area of the sub-antral space with maxillary sinus bone and the Schneiderian membrane can affect osteogenesis.
Methods
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were collected of patients requiring maxillary sinus floor elevation (residual bone height < 6 mm) for standard-length implant placement before surgery, after surgery, and at 6-month follow-up visits. The postoperative sub-antral space volume (V1) and surface area (S1), and the remaining volume after six months of healing (V2) were measured. Then, the contact area of sub-antral space with maxillary sinus bone (Sbc) and the Schneiderian membrane (Smc), the absorbed volume during healing (Va), and the percentage of remaining volume (V2%) and absorbed volume (Va%) were calculated. The correlation between anatomical parameters was analyzed using multiple linear regression.
Results
A total of 62 maxillary sinuses from 56 patients were augmented, of which 57 were considered for the final analysis (5 withdrew due to perforation). Multiple linear regression results demonstrated that Sbc was significantly positively correlated with Va (β coefficient = 0.141, p < 0.01) without correlation between Smc and Va (β coefficient=-0.046, p = 0.470). There was a positive correlation between Sbc and V2% (β coefficient = 2.269, p <0.05).
Conclusions
This study confirmed that the size of the Sbc in lateral window sinus elevation surgery affected osteogenesis after six months of healing. Clinicians should assess the sinus contour type preoperatively, then consider whether it is necessary to expand the range of the Schneiderian membrane elevation to avoid excessive collapse of the sub-antral space.
Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(ChiCTR), ChiCTR2200057924. Registered 22 March 2022 - Retrospectively registered.
A very promising antibiofilm activity against Candida albicans from an in vitro screening for antimicrobial, antibiofilm and antiproliferative activity of new synthesized 4-cinnamamido- and 2-phenoxyacedamido-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzamides.
Authors: Plescia Fabiana , Catania Valentina , D’Anneo Antonella , Raffa Demetrio , Lauricella Marianna , Schillaci Domenico
Published: December 2022

Several new synthesized 4-cinnamamido- and 2-phenoxyacedamido-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzamides were obtained by two multi step different synthetic routes in order to maximize their yield. The new derivatives were screened to determinate the antiproliferative, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity. The biological results showed how, respect to the antiproliferative and antimicrobial activities, the compounds showed a low to missing activity. Different are the results obtained with respect to the antibiofilm activity, especially towards Candida albicans. Most of the synthesized compounds showed a good percentage inhibition of biofilm formation ranging from 60 to 73% with a Biofilm Inhibition Concentration 50% (BIC50) from 0.13 to 0.01 µM. Among the synthesized the ethyl 5-(4-(2-(4-chlorophenoxy)acetamido)benzamido)-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate (27c) resulted the most active with a BIC50 of 0.01 µM. According to the result obtained, such compound could be considered a lead subject of further studies to obtain novel and more effective antibiofilm agents against C. albicans infections.
When Macro Critical Climate Risk Comes True. Environmental Destruction and House Prices in Mar Menor, Spain
Authors: Perez-Quiros Gabriel , Rodriguez Matias Lamas , Lorenzo Maria de la Luz Garcia , Magro Manuel Medina
Published: December 2022

The frequency and severity of extreme events related to climate change have intensified worldwide in the last decades. It is documented that increasing extreme rainfall and flooding cause more nutrient runoff into waterbodies initiating numerous harmful algal bloom (HAB) events. We analyze the dramatic economic damage of one of these episodes in Mar Menor, the largest salt-water lagoon in Europe. We show that, when the public perceived the severity of environmental degradation, the return on housing investment was 43% lower in this area than in similar neighboring zones six years after the HAB (2015). This represents a loss in housing wealth of more than 4,000 million euros, around ten times the gains of changing from dry-farming to irrigated crops, which makes this ecosystem fragile. Hence, we quantify some of the economic consequences of ecological deterioration linked to Global Climate Change, a macro critical risk affecting the world economy.
Many-body chemical reactions in a quantum degenerate gas
Authors: Zhang Zhendong , Nagata Shu , Yao Kai-Xuan , Chin Cheng
Published: December 2022

Chemical reactions in the quantum degenerate regime are described by mixing of matterwave fields. Quantum coherence and bosonic enhancement are two unique features of many-body reactions involving bosonic reactants and products. Such collective reactions of chemicals, dubbed “super-chemistry”, is an elusive goal in quantum chemistry research. Here we report the observation of coherent and collective reactive coupling between Bose condensed atoms and molecules near a Feshbach resonance. Starting from an atomic condensate, the reaction begins with a rapid formation of molecules, followed by oscillations of their populations in the equilibration process. Faster oscillations are observed in samples with higher densities, indicating bosonic enhancement. We present a quantum field model which describes the dynamics well and identifies three body recombination as the dominant reaction process. Our findings exemplify the highly sought-after quantum many-body chemistry and offer a new paradigm for the control of quantum chemical reactions.
Prescribed Medications and Sarcopenia Development in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan: A Kashiwa Cohort Study
Authors: Tanaka Tomoki , Akishita Masahiro , Kojima Taro , Son Bo-Kyung , Iijima Katsuya
Published: December 2022

Background
Clinical evidence demonstrating a longitudinal association between prescribed medications and sarcopenia onset is lacking. We investigated the association of polypharmacy (the use of five or more medications) and potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) with sarcopenia risk in community-dwelling older adults.
Methods
In this longitudinal population-based cohort study, 2,044 older residents with no long-term care needs were randomly selected from a community in Kashiwa, Japan. Baseline data collection was conducted in 2012, with follow-ups in 2013, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2021. Prescribed medications and PIMs (drugs listed in the Screening Tool for Older Person’s Appropriate Prescriptions for the Japanese or potentially muscle-wasting drugs) were identified through interviews. New-onset sarcopenia was identified according to the 2019 criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia over a 9-year period and analyzed as an event using generalized estimating equations with repeated measures.
Results
Of the 1,549 participants without sarcopenia at baseline (mean age, 72.5 ± 5.5 years; 49.1% women; 6,256 total measurements over the 9-year follow-up; median and interquartile range, 6.0 [4.0–9.0] years), 230 experienced 260 events of new-onset sarcopenia during the follow-up. After adjusting for potential confounders, the prescription of ≥ 5 medications with PIM use was strongly associated with new-onset sarcopenia (adjusted odds ratio, 1.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.13–2.60; P = 0.011). No significant associations were observed for either PIM use or polypharmacy alone.
Conclusions
The combination of polypharmacy and PIM use was associated with an increased risk of new-onset sarcopenia over the 9-year follow-up period. Limiting polypharmacy and imposing the prescription of appropriate medications may facilitate sarcopenia prevention.
Rutin alleviates colon lesions and regulates gut microbiota in diabetic mice
Authors: Cai Cifeng , Cheng Wenwen , Shi Tiantian , Liao Yueling , Zhou Meiliang , Liao Zhiyong
Published: December 2022

Diabetes is a common metabolic disorder which has become a major health problem worldwide. In this study, we investigated the role of rutin in attenuating diabetes and preventing diabetes-related colon lesions in mice potentially through regulation of gut microbiota. The rutin from tartary buckwheat as analyzed by HPLC was administered intragastrically to diabetic mice, and then the biochemical parameters, overall community structure and composition of gut microbiota in diabetic mice were assayed. Results showed that rutin lowered serum glucose, improved serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, triglyceride concentrations, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and serum insulin in diabetic mice. Notably, rutin obviously alleviated colon lesions in diabetic mice. Moreover, rutin also significantly regulated gut microbiota dysbiosis and enriched the beneficial microbiota, such as Akkermansia. Rutin selectively increased the short-chain fatty acid producing bacteria, such as Alistipes and Roseburia, and decreased the abundance of diabetes-related gut microbiota, such as Escherichia and Mucispirillum. Our data suggested that rutin exerted anti-diabetic effect and alleviated colon lesions in diabetic mice possibly through regulating gut microbiota dysbiosis, which might be a potential mechanism through which rutin alleviates the diabetes-related symptoms.
Persistent SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity despite treatment in immunodeficient patients
Authors: Chan Michele , Linn Me Me Nay , O’Hagan Thomas , Guerra-Assunção José Afonso , Lackenby Angie , Workman Sarita , Dacre Anna , Burns Siobhan O , Breuer Judith , Hart Jennifer , Tadros Susan , Lowe David M
Published: December 2022

Purpose:
COVID-19 infection in immunodeficient individuals can result in chronically poor health, persistent or relapsing SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity, and long-term infectious potential. While clinical trials have demonstrated promising outcomes using anti-SARS-CoV-2 medicines in immunocompetent hosts, their ability to achieve sustained viral clearance in immunodeficient patients remains unknown. We therefore aimed to study longer term virological outcomes in patients treated at our centre.
Methods:
We followed up immunocompromised inpatients treated with casirivimab-imdevimab (Ronapreve) between September and December 2021, and immunocompromised patients who received sotrovimab, molnupiravir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid), or no treatment from December 2021 to March 2022. Nasopharyngeal swab and sputum samples were obtained either in hospital or in the community until sustained viral clearance, defined as 3 consecutive negative samples, was achieved. Positive samples were sequenced and analysed for mutations of interest.
Results:
We observed sustained viral clearance in 64 of 103 patients, none of whom died. Of the 39/103 patients where sustained clearance was not confirmed, 6 died (between 2 and 34 days from treatment). Notably, we observed 23 cases of sputum positivity despite negative NPS samples, as well as recurrence of SARS-CoV-2 positivity following a negative sample in 12 cases. Patients with viral clearance were then divided into those who cleared within 28 days and those with PCR positivity beyond 28 days. We noted lower B cell counts in the group with persistent PCR positivity (mean (SD) 0.08 (0.10) x109/L vs 0.22 (0.29) x109/L, p=0.01) as well as lower IgA (median (IQR) 0.00 (0.00-0.30) g/L vs 0.30 (0.00-0.90) g/L, p=0.03) and IgM (median (IQR) 0.10 (0.00-0.30) g/L vs 0.30 (0.10-0.75) g/L, p=0.007). No differences were seen in CD4+ or CD8+ T cell counts. Antiviral treatment did not impact risk of persistent PCR positivity.
Conclusion:
Persistent SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity is common among immunodeficient individuals, especially those with antibody deficiencies, regardless of anti-viral treatment. Peripheral B cell count and serum IgA and IgM levels are predictors of viral persistence.
Effects of Various Irrigation Protocols Used in Regenerative Endodontic Procedures on the Migration, Proliferation, and Differentiation of Human Stem Cell from the Apical Papilla
Authors: Meeprasert Napas , Jantarat Jeeraphat , Wichai Wassana , Surarit Rudee , Hargreaves Kenneth M.
Published: December 2022

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of various irrigation protocols in regenerative endodontic procedures (REPS) on the attachment, proliferation, migration, and differentiation of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs).
Materials and Methods Dentin specimens from 140 human third molars were irrigated with various protocols; group 1: normal sterile saline (NSS), group 2: EDTA, group 3: EDTA then 5 mL NSS, or group 4: EDTA then 20 mL NSS. The specimens were used in cell assays. For cell proliferation, SCAPs were seeded on dentin and the cell viability on days 1, 3, and 7 was determined using an MTT assay. At day 3, the attached cells’ morphology was observed using SEM and cell migration was investigated using a Transwell-migration assay. The ALP activity and odonto/osteogenic differentiation gene expression was evaluated at day 7, 14, and 21 using an ALP activity assay and RT-qPCR.
Results On day 3 and 7, group 4 demonstrated more viable cells than group 1 (p < 0.01). The amount of migrated cells in group 2, 3, and 4 was greater compared with group 1 (p < 0.05). Moreover, SCAP differentiation was similar between groups.
Conclusions Irrigating dentin with EDTA alone or with EDTA then NSS promoted SCAP migration. However, a final irrigation with 20 mL NSS after EDTA promoted SCAP proliferation without affecting their differentiation.
Clinical relevance When using a blood clot as a scaffold, a final flushing with 20 mL NSS after EDTA could be beneficial for clinical REP protocols.
BIM-based Digital Platform and Risk Management System for Mountain Tunnel Construction
Authors: Liu Naifei , Guo Desai , Song Zhanping , Zhong Shiming , Hu Ruoqi
Published: December 2022

There are often varieties of complex and changeable potential risks during the construction of mountain tunnels, of which the management and control are critical to ensure the construction safety of mountain tunnels. With the rapid development of engineering information technologies such as Building Information Model (BIM), internet, big data and cloud computing, dynamic management of mountain tunnel construction will become an inexorable trend. Based on digital and integrated mountain tunnel management, this paper combines monitoring measurement with advanced geological prediction based on BIM technology, which is a new digital means, to realize the informatization and visualization of risk management in mountain tunnel construction. This paper proposes a BIM-based digital platform architecture for mountain tunnel construction, which is categorized into basic layer, model layer, data layer, application layer and user layer. Through the integration of the five layers, this paper can realize the information about risk management during the construction of mountain tunnels. Meanwhile, based on the digital platform, a set of dynamic risk management systems including risk monitoring, risk identification and risk assessment is established. The digital platform and dynamic risk management system proposed in this paper have certain advantages in the construction of mountain tunnels and provide a new way for the management of safety risk in the construction of mountain tunnels, which has very important significance in the construction safety and risk control of mountain tunnel.
Identification of a Novel Hepacivirus in White - tipped Shrew (Crocidura dracula) from Yunnan, China
Authors: Guo Ling , Li Bei , Dong Na , Zhu Yan , Li Fu-Li , Si Hao-Rui , Shi Zheng-Li , Yang Xing-Lou , Zhang Yunzhi
Published: December 2022

Hepacivirusgenus contains single-stranded positive-sense RNA viruses belonging to the family Flaviviridae, which contains 14 species. The 14 hepaciviruses were found in different mammals, such as primates, dogs, bats and rodents. To date, hepacivirus has not been reported in Crocidura animals. To study the prevalence and genetic evolution of hepacivirus in small mammals in Yunnan Province. Molecular detection of hepacivirus in small mammals from Yunnan Province during 2016- 2017 was performed by RT-PCR. Test results showed that the infection rate of hepacivirus in small mammals was 0.12% (2/1602), and the host animal was Crocidura dracula. Phylogenetic analysis and genetic analysis showed hepaciviruses obtained in this study don’t belong to any species of hepaciviruses, and form an independent clade. In general, a novel hepacivirus was identified for the first time in C. dracula specimens from Yunnan, China. And this study expanded the host range and viral diversity of hepaciviruses.
Status quo of advanced cancer patients participating in shared decision- making in China: A mixed study
Authors: Huang Shanshan , Wang Hongchao , Xu Xianghua , Bu Xiaofan , Xia Yimin , Liu Xiangyu
Published: December 2022

Purpose
Patients with advanced cancer are usually willing to participate in shared decision-making (SDM), but in clinical practice, the participation of patients is easily ignored due to many factors. This study aimed to analyze the current status of SDM among patients with advanced cancer in China and the related factors affecting patient participation.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 513 advanced cancer patients in 16 tertiary hospitals of China. The general situation questionnaire, the Control Preference Scale (CPS) and Perceived-involvement in Care Scale (PICS) were used to analyze the current status of SDM and influencing factors. Based on the Ottawa Decision Support Framework (ODSF), 17 advanced cancer patients were interviewed to explore the perceptions of advanced cancer patients on SDM.
Results
There is a difference between actual situation and expectation of patients' participation in decision-making tendency, and the statistically significant influencing factors were age, payment, and whether worried about the therapeutic effect. We also found the dynamic change of decision-making mode, the acquisition of disease information, the obstacles of decision-making participation and the role of family members would effect the type of patients' SDM.
Conclusion
The SDM status of advanced cancer patients in China is dominated by sharing, and in a continuous dynamic change. Influenced by Chinese traditional culture, family members play an important role in shared decision-making.
Influence of milling parameters on machining performances and surface quality of ZK61M magnesium alloy
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Chen Chang , Huang Zhiliang , Zhao Jun , Yang E
Published: December 2022

The milling parameters have an important influence on machining performance and surface quality of metal materials. In this paper, the differences in machining and corrosion resistance properties of ZK61M plates under different processing parameters were analyzed by side milling. The milling process was simulated to explore the change laws of milling temperature and milling force. The hardness of machined surface was observed by Vikers hardness tester. The surface quality and the corrosion performances under different spindle speeds were observed by 3D ultra-depth of field microscope. The results showed that the milling temperature was increased with the increase of spindle speed and feed speed. The influence of spindle speed and feed speed on milling force along the milling direction and the cutter direction was significant different. The milled surface had better quality when the spindle speed increased or the feed speed decreased. The hardness standard deviation of machined surface was decreased as the surface quality became better. Besides, it was summarized that how spindle speed played a role in corrosion resistance performance by affecting residual stress and metal oxides.
GIS-based calculation method of wave height generated by three-dimensional landslide
Authors: Yu Guo , Zhou Xiaowen , Bu Lei , Wang Chengfeng , Farooq Asim
Published: December 2022

Combined with the spatial data processing capability of geographic information systems (GIS), a three-dimensional (3D) landslide wave height calculation method is proposed based on grid column units. First, the data related to the landslide are rasterized to form grid columns, and a force analysis model of 3D landslides is established. Combining the vertical strip method with Newton's laws of motion, dynamic equilibrium equations are established to solve for the wave height. Moreover, a 3D landslide wave height calculation expansion module is developed in the GIS environment, and the results are compared with those of the two-dimensional Pan Jiazheng method. Comparisons show that the maximum wave height obtained by the proposed method is 24.6% larger than that based on the Pan Jiazheng method. Compared with the traditional two-dimensional method, the 3D method proposed in this paper better represents the actual spatial state of the landslide and is more suitable for risk assessment.