bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mTOR activity is essential for retinal pigment epithelium regeneration in zebrafish
Authors: Lu Fangfang , Leach Lyndsay L. , Gross Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2022

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) plays numerous critical roles in maintaining vision and this is underscored by the prevalence of degenerative blinding diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), in which visual impairment is caused by progressive loss of RPE cells. In contrast to mammals, zebrafish possess the ability to intrinsically regenerate a functional RPE layer after severe injury. The molecular underpinnings of this regenerative process remain largely unknown yet hold tremendous potential for developing treatment strategies to stimulate endogenous regeneration in the human eye. In this study, we demonstrate that the mTOR pathway is activated in RPE cells post-genetic ablation. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of mTOR activity impaired RPE regeneration, while mTOR activation enhanced RPE recovery post-injury, demonstrating that mTOR activity is essential for RPE regeneration in zebrafish. RNA-seq of RPE isolated from mTOR-inhibited larvae identified a number of genes and pathways dependent on mTOR activity at early and late stages of regeneration; amongst these were components of the immune system, which is emerging as a key regulator of regenerative responses across various tissue and model systems. Our results identify crosstalk between macrophages/microglia and the RPE, wherein mTOR activity is required for recruitment of macrophages/microglia to the RPE injury site. Macrophages/microglia then reinforce mTOR activity in regenerating RPE cells. Interestingly, the function of macrophages/microglia in maintaining mTOR activity in the RPE appeared to be inflammation-independent. Taken together, these data identify mTOR activity as a key regulator of RPE regeneration and link the mTOR pathway to immune responses in facilitating RPE regeneration.
Reproductive health among married and unmarried mothers aged less than 18, 18–19, and 20–24 years in the United States, 2014–2019: A population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Fafard St-Germain Andrée-Anne , Kirby Russell S. , Urquia Marcelo L.
Published: March 2022

Background

Studies in low- and middle-income regions suggest that child marriage (<18 years) is a risk factor for poor reproductive outcomes among women. However, in high-income-country contexts where childbearing before age 18 occurs predominantly outside marriage, it is unknown whether marriage is adversely associated with reproductive health among mothers below age 18. This study examined the joint associations of marriage and adolescent maternal age group (<18, 18–19, and 20–24 years) with reproductive, maternal, and infant health indicators in the United States.

Methods and findings

Birth registrations with US resident mothers aged ≤24 years with complete information on marital status were drawn from the 2014 to 2019 Natality Public Use Files (n = 5,669,824). Odds ratios for the interaction between marital status and maternal age group were estimated using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for covariates such as maternal race/ethnicity and nativity status, federal program participation, and paternal age. Marriage prevalence was 3.6%, 13.2%, and 34.1% among births to mothers aged <18, 18–19, and 20–24 years, respectively. Age gradients in the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were present for most indicators, and many gradients differed by marital status. Among births to mothers aged <18 years, marriage was associated with greater adjusted odds of prior pregnancy termination (AOR 1.64, 95% CI 1.52–1.77, p < 0.001), repeat birth (AOR 2.84, 95% CI 2.68–3.00, p < 0.001), maternal smoking (AOR 1.24, 95% CI 1.15–1.35, p < 0.001), and infant morbidity (AOR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14, p = 0.03), but weaker or reverse associations existed among births to older mothers. For all maternal age groups, marriage was associated with lower adjusted odds of late or no prenatal care initiation, sexually transmitted infection, and no breastfeeding at hospital discharge, but these beneficial associations were weaker among births to mothers aged <18 and 18–19 years. Limitations of the study include its cross-sectional nature and lack of information on marriage timing relative to prior pregnancy events.

Conclusions

Marriage among mothers below age 18 is associated with both adverse and favorable reproductive, maternal, and infant health indicators. Heterogeneity exists in the relationship between marriage and reproductive health across adolescent maternal age groups, suggesting girl child marriages must be examined separately from marriages at older ages.
The chloroplast genome sequence and phylogenetic analysis of Apocynum venetum L.
Authors: Guo Xiaonong , Wang Zhuanxia , Cai Deyu , Song Lei , Bai Jialin
Published: March 2022

Apocynum venetum L. (Apocynaceae) is valuable for its medicinal compounds and fiber content. Native A. venetum populations are threatened and require protection. Wild A. venetum resources are limited relative to market demand and a poor understanding of the composition of A. venetum at the molecular level. The chloroplast genome contains genetic markers for phylogenetic analysis, genetic diversity evaluation, and molecular identification. In this study, the entire genome of the A. venetum chloroplast was sequenced and analyzed. The A. venetum cp genome is 150,878 bp, with a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRA and IRB). Each inverted repeat region is 25,810 bp, which consist of large (LSC, 81,951 bp) and small (SSC, 17,307 bp) single copy areas. The genome-wide GC content was 38.35%, LSC made up 36.49%, SSC made up 32.41%, and IR made up 43.3%. The A. venetum chloroplast genome encodes 131 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, eight ribosomal RNA genes, and 37 transfer RNA genes. This study identified the unique characteristics of the A. venetum chloroplast genome, which will help formulate effective conservation and management strategies as well as molecular identification approaches for this important medicinal plant.
Revealing the queer-spectrum in STEM through robust demographic data collection in undergraduate engineering and computer science courses at four institutions
Authors: Casper A. M. Aramati , Atadero Rebecca A. , Fuselier Linda C.
Published: March 2022

Queer identities are often ignored in diversity initiatives, yet there is a growing body of research that describes notable heterosexist and gender-normative expectations in STEM that lead to unsupportive and discriminatory environments and to the lower persistence of queer individuals. Research on the experiences of queer-spectrum individuals is limited by current demographic practices. In surveys that are queer-inclusive there is no consensus on best practices, and individuals with queer genders and queer sexual, romantic, and related orientations are often lumped together in a general category (e.g. LGBTQ+). We developed two queer-inclusive demographics questions and administered them as part of a larger study in undergraduate engineering and computer science classes (n = 3698), to determine which of three survey types for gender (conventional, queered, open-ended) provided the most robust data and compared responses to national data to determine if students with queer genders and/or queer sexual, romantic, and related orientations were underrepresented in engineering and computer science programs. The gender survey with queer-identity options provided the most robust data, as measured by higher response rates and relatively high rates of disclosing queer identities. The conventional survey (male, female, other) had significantly fewer students disclose queer identities, and the open-ended survey had a significantly higher non-response rate. Allowing for multiple responses on the survey was important: 78% of those with queer gender identities and 9% of those with queer sexual, romantic and related orientations selected multiple identities within the same survey question. Queer students in our study were underrepresented relative to national data. Students who disclosed queer gender identities were 7/100ths of the expected number, and those with queer orientations were under-represented by one-quarter. Further work developing a research-based queered demographics instrument is needed for larger-scale changes in demographics practices, which will help others identify and address barriers that queer-spectrum individuals face in STEM.
An analysis of investors’ behavior in Bitcoin market
Authors: Diaconaşu Delia-Elena , Mehdian Seyed , Stoica Ovidiu
Published: March 2022

As an emerging digital asset, Bitcoin has been traded for more than a decade, reaching an impressively high market capitalization and continuing to expand its volume of trading at a rapid pace. Many countries have legalized or are considering legalizing a trading platform for this asset, and a set of companies worldwide accept it as a medium of exchange. As a result of this expansion, many studies in finance literature have focused on studying the efficiency of this cryptocurrency. In line with this literature, this paper investigates, using the abnormal returns and abnormal trading volumes methodologies, the dynamics of investors’ reaction to the arrival of unexpected favorable and unfavorable information regarding the Bitcoin market in the context of the three famous hypotheses: the overreaction, the uncertain information, and the efficient market hypotheses. Overall, we find evidence confirming that the Bitcoin market tends to mature over time. More precisely, over the entire analyzed period, investors behave in accordance with the predictions of the uncertain information hypothesis when positive and negative events occur. However, splitting the timespan into sub-periods provides interesting insights. Remarkably in this respect is the fact that starting with the second sub-period, the response of investors in the Bitcoin market supports, in a moderate manner, the postulate of the efficient market hypothesis when favorable events are addressed. Moreover, our findings reveal that during the pandemic period, the efficiency of Bitcoin has increased, thus turning this stressful period into an advantage for this cryptocurrency. This improved market efficiency is also supported by the abnormal trading volume analysis.
Targeting the somatosensory system with AAV9 and AAV2retro viral vectors
Authors: Skorput Alexander G. J. , Gore Reshma , Schorn Rachel , Riedl Maureen S. , Marron Fernandez de Velasco Ezequiel , Hadlich Bailey , Kitto Kelley F. , Fairbanks Carolyn A. , Vulchanova Lucy
Published: March 2022

Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors allow for site-specific and time-dependent genetic manipulation of neurons. However, for successful implementation of AAV vectors, major consideration must be given to the selection of viral serotype and route of delivery for efficient gene transfer into the cell type being investigated. Here we compare the transduction pattern of neurons in the somatosensory system following injection of AAV9 or AAV2retro in the parabrachial complex of the midbrain, the spinal cord dorsal horn, the intrathecal space, and the colon. Transduction was evaluated based on Cre-dependent expression of tdTomato in transgenic reporter mice, following delivery of AAV9 or AAV2retro carrying identical constructs that drive the expression of Cre/GFP. The pattern of distribution of tdTomato expression indicated notable differences in the access of the two AAV serotypes to primary afferent neurons via peripheral delivery in the colon and to spinal projections neurons via intracranial delivery within the parabrachial complex. Additionally, our results highlight the superior sensitivity of detection of neuronal transduction based on reporter expression relative to expression of viral products.
The relationship between fear of COVID-19, psychological well-being and life satisfaction in nursing students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tekir Özlem
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between fear of COVID-19, psychological well-being, and satisfaction with life in nursing students.

Methods

A descriptive and cross-sectional design was used in this study. The study was carried out at a university Faculty of Health Sciences Department of Nursing between May 17 and June 25, 2021. The JASP 0.14.1. Software was used for statistical analysis. Kruskal-Wallis test was used for the comparison of three or more groups, Mann-Whitney U test was used for the comparisons of two groups, and Bonferroni-corrected Mann-Whitney U test was used for post hoc analysis. To determine the risk factors for "The Fear of COVID-19 Scale," linear regression analysis with backward stepwise modeling was used.

Results

The mean score of the students was 18.48±6.87 from the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, 38.42±12.60 from the Psychological Well-Being Scale, and 13.12±4.97 from the Satisfaction with Life Scale. According to the results of the regression model established, independent variables explained 12.5% of the dependent variables, but the regression model established was found to be statistically significant. A one-unit increase in the satisfaction with life scale increased the fear of COVID-19 scale score by 0.224 units, and this increase was found statistically significant (p = 0.030) as a result of linear regression analysis used with backward stepwise modeling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it was found that the students’ fear of COVID-19 was below the medium level, their psychological well-being was above the medium level, and that their life satisfaction was below the medium level.
Does gestational diabetes increase the risk of maternal kidney disease? A Swedish national cohort study
Authors: Barrett Peter M. , McCarthy Fergus P. , Evans Marie , Kublickas Marius , Perry Ivan J. , Stenvinkel Peter , Kublickiene Karolina , Khashan Ali S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease. It is uncertain whether GDM is independently associated with the risk of chronic kidney disease. The aim was to examine the association between GDM and maternal CKD and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and to determine whether this depends on progression to overt T2DM.

Methods

A population-based cohort study was designed using Swedish national registry data. Previous GDM diagnosis was the main exposure, and this was stratified according to whether women developed T2DM after pregnancy. Using Cox regression models, we estimated the risk of CKD (stages 3–5), ESKD and different CKD subtypes (tubulointerstitial, glomerular, hypertensive, diabetic, other).

Findings

There were 1,121,633 women included, of whom 15,595 (1·4%) were diagnosed with GDM. Overall, GDM-diagnosed women were at increased risk of CKD (aHR 1·81, 95% CI 1·54–2·14) and ESKD (aHR 4·52, 95% CI 2·75–7·44). Associations were strongest for diabetic CKD (aHR 8·81, 95% CI 6·36–12·19) and hypertensive CKD (aHR 2·46, 95% CI 1·06–5·69). These associations were largely explained by post-pregnancy T2DM. Among women who had GDM + subsequent T2DM, strong associations were observed (CKD, aHR 21·70, 95% CI 17·17–27·42; ESKD, aHR 112·37, 95% CI 61·22–206·38). But among those with GDM only, associations were non-significant (CKD, aHR 1·11, 95% CI 0·89–1·38; ESKD, aHR 1·58, 95% CI 0·70–3·60 respectively).

Conclusion

Women who experience GDM and subsequent T2DM are at increased risk of developing CKD and ESKD. However, GDM-diagnosed women who never develop overt T2DM have similar risk of future CKD/ESKD to those with uncomplicated pregnancies.
Uterus-specific transcriptional regulation underlies eggshell pigment production in Japanese quail
Authors: Ishishita Satoshi , Kitahara Shumpei , Takahashi Mayuko , Iwasaki Sakura , Tatsumoto Shoji , Hara Izumi , Kaneko Yoshiki , Kinoshita Keiji , Yamaguchi Katsushi , Harada Akihito , Ohmori Yasushige , Ohkawa Yasuyuki , Go Yasuhiro , Shigenobu Shuji , Matsuda Yoichi , Suzuki Takayuki
Published: March 2022

The precursor of heme, protoporphyrin IX (PPIX), accumulates abundantly in the uteri of birds, such as Japanese quail, Coturnix japonica, which has brown-speckled eggshells; however, the molecular basis of PPIX production in the uterus remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the cause of low PPIX production in a classical Japanese quail mutant exhibiting white eggshells by comparing its gene expression in the uterus with that of the wild type using transcriptome analysis. We also performed genetic linkage analysis to identify the causative genomic region of the white eggshell phenotype. We found that 11 genes, including 5’-aminolevulinate synthase 1 (ALAS1) and hephaestin-like 1 (HEPHL1), were specifically upregulated in the wild-type uterus and downregulated in the mutant. We mapped the 172 kb candidate genomic region on chromosome 6, which contains several genes, including a part of the paired-like homeodomain 3 (PITX3), which encodes a transcription factor. ALAS1, HEPHL1, and PITX3 were expressed in the apical cells of the luminal epithelium and lamina propria cells of the uterine mucosa of the wild-type quail, while their expression levels were downregulated in the cells of the mutant quail. Biochemical analysis using uterine homogenates indicated that the restricted availability of 5’-aminolevulinic acid is the main cause of low PPIX production. These results suggest that uterus-specific transcriptional regulation of heme-biosynthesis-related genes is an evolutionarily acquired mechanism of eggshell pigment production in Japanese quail. Based on these findings, we discussed the molecular basis of PPIX production in the uteri of Japanese quails.
SPiNCAR: A systematic model to evaluate and guide actions for tackling AMR
Authors: Bravo Giulia , Cattani Giovanni , Malacarne Francesca , Tricarico Pierfrancesco , Arnoldo Luca , Brunelli Laura , Zotti Carla , Moro Maria Luisa , Diegoli Giuseppe , Pezzotti Patrizio , Bella Antonino , Pantosti Annalisa , Punzo Ornella , Grossi Adriano , Barchitta Martina , Agodi Antonella , Castellini Greta , Marrazzo Matteo , Auxilia Francesco , Cavallaro Gianluca , Alborali Giovanni Loris , Mazzolini Elena , Brusaferro Silvio
Published: March 2022

Background

Italy records very alarming levels antimicrobial resistance (AMR), so a National Action Plan on Antimicrobial resistance (PNCAR) was developed, adopting the AMR European Union’s recommendations based on the results of the ECDC site visit of January 2017. For achieving PNCAR objectives, it is necessary to support and harmonize the implementation of recommendations in all the different healthcare levels (regional authorities and local trusts), so the SPiNCAR project was launched to create a tool for reaching this goal.

Methods

We developed a framework based on a scientific literature and national and international guidelines. Firstly, we identified the major intervention areas for tackling AMR, then, for each area, we built a set of standards, both for regional authorities than for local trusts. Every standard is composed by a set of essential and additional criteria, which refer to a minimum or supplemental performance level respectively. The contents were firstly discussed by the project’s team during face-to-face kick-off meetings, then confirmed with Delphi methodology and finally validated through a pilot study.

Results

The final framework consists of seven different areas that reflect the PNCAR structure: Governance, Surveillance and Monitoring, Appropriate Use of antimicrobials, Healthcare-associated Infections (HAIs) control and prevention, Education and Training, Alliance among Stakeholders, Implementation. The total number of standards for the regional framework was 34 with 264 criteria and for the local version 36 criteria with 279 standards.

Conclusion

The ongoing use of this tool, developed on international evidences and recommendations that were tailored on the Italian specific context, allows monitoring the improvement achieved over time and plan the next steps.
Terabyte capacity-enabled (10 x 400 Gbps) Is-OWC system for long-haul communication by incorporating dual polarization quadrature phase shift key and mode division multiplexing scheme
Authors: Chaudhary Sushank , Wuttisittikulkij Lunchakorn , Nebhen Jamel , Sharma Abhishek , Rodriguez Demostenes Zegarra , Kumar Santosh
Published: March 2022

Inter-satellite optical wireless communication (Is-OWC) links can become promising solutions to realize the next-generation high-speed communication services. The operation of Global Navigation Satellite Systems can be improved with the use of Is-OWC links through ranging and communication services. However, the key challenge in Inter-satellite link (ISL) is its effective range which is limited due to pointing errors. In this work, we propose to develop a high-capacity and long-reach Is-OWC link by incorporating hybrid mode division multiplexing (MDM) and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) schemes to transmit ten independent channels over 40000kms Is-OWC link. Each channel is capable of carrying 400Gbps data which is encoded by the dual polarization quadrature phase shift key technique with required signal to noise ratio (SNR) and received power. The proposed Is-OWC link satisfies the enhanced communication within Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The proposed Is-OWC is further evaluated under the impact of space turbulences, particularly transmitter and receiver pointing errors. The result reported that the proposed Is-OWC link can transmit 4Tbps data over 16000kms with the transmitter pointing error of 2μrad and receiver pointing error of 1μrad.
Screen-detected abnormal ankle brachial index: A risk indicator for future cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with manifest cardiovascular disease
Authors: Jagt Vivianne L. , Hazenberg Constantijn E. V. B. , Kapelle Jaap , Cramer Maarten J. , Visseren Frank L. J. , Westerink Jan ,   on behalf of the UCC-SMART Study Group
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The ankle brachial index (ABI) can be used to diagnose peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The clinical relevance of the ABI, especially in patients with known clinically manifest cardiovascular disease (CVD), is unknown. The authors set out to investigate the relationship between a screen-detected ABI and the risk for future cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with clinically manifest CVD.

Design, materials and methods

Patients with clinically manifest CVD were selected from the UCC-SMART cohort (n = 8360) and divided into four groups: normal ABI (0.91–1.39), screen-detected low ABI ≤ 0.9, screen-detected high ABI ≥ 1.4, and patients with known PAD irrespective of their ABI. Adjusted Cox Proportional Hazard Ratios (HRs) for Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE), Major Adverse Limb Events (MALE), and all-cause mortality were calculated. In addition, stratified analyses for women and men and for the presence of diabetes were performed.

Results

During a median follow-up of 8.3 years (IQR 7.7) 1646 MACE, 601 MALE and 1958 all-cause mortalities were observed. Compared with normal ABI patients, patients with a screen-detected low ABI and patients with manifest PAD had a higher risk of MACE, MALE, and all-cause mortality with HRs of 1.9 (95% CI 1.6–2.2) for MACE, 7.6 (95% CI 5.7–10.1) for MALE, 1.7 (95% CI 1.5–2.0) for mortality and 1.3 (95% CI 1.2–1.5) for MACE, 13.8 (95% CI 11.1–17.1) for MALE, 1.7 (95% CI 1.5–1.9) for mortality, respectively. Screen-detected high ABI did not increase the risk of either MACE or MALE, however, was associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality with a HR of 0.6 (95% CI 0.5–0.9). Stratified analyses for women & men and for diabetes status were comparable for all three outcomes.

Conclusions

In patients with manifest CVD but without PAD, a screen-detected low ABI is a powerful risk indicator for cardiovascular events, limb events, and all-cause mortality.
Deep learning for 1-bit compressed sensing-based superimposed CSI feedback
Authors: Qing Chaojin , Ye Qing , Cai Bin , Liu Wenhui , Wang Jiafan
Published: March 2022

In frequency-division duplexing (FDD) massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, 1-bit compressed sensing (CS)-based superimposed channel state information (CSI) feedback has shown many advantages, while still faces many challenges, such as low accuracy of the downlink CSI recovery and large processing delays. To overcome these drawbacks, this paper proposes a deep learning (DL) scheme to improve the 1-bit compressed sensing-based superimposed CSI feedback. On the user side, the downlink CSI is compressed with the 1-bit CS technique, superimposed on the uplink user data sequences (UL-US), and then sent back to the base station (BS). At the BS, based on the model-driven approach and assisted by the superimposition-interference cancellation technology, a multi-task detection network is first constructed for detecting both the UL-US and downlink CSI. In particular, this detection network is jointly trained to detect the UL-US and downlink CSI simultaneously, capturing a globally optimized network parameter. Then, with the recovered bits for the downlink CSI, a lightweight reconstruction scheme, which consists of an initial feature extraction of the downlink CSI with the simplified traditional method and a single hidden layer network, is utilized to reconstruct the downlink CSI with low processing delay. Compared with the 1-bit CS-based superimposed CSI feedback scheme, the proposed scheme improves the recovery accuracy of the UL-US and downlink CSI with lower processing delay and possesses robustness against parameter variations.
Nurse’s spiritual care competence in Ethiopia: A multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Seid Kalid , Abdo Adem
Published: March 2022

Background

Many health care professionals emphasize that spirituality is an important factor in overall health. Although spiritual practices are vital to health, spirituality has received little emphasis in nursing. Hence, the study’s purpose has been to evaluate the current state of spiritual care competence and the factors that influence it among nurses in Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

From July 1 to 20, 2021, nurses at five hospitals in southwest Ethiopia were enrolled in a facility-based cross-sectional study. The study subjects were chosen using a systematic random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was undertaken to gather the data. Epi Data 3.1 was used to code the dataset, and SPSS version 25 was used for analysis. To identify factors associated with spiritual care competence, researchers performed bivariate and multivariable linear regression analyses. The significance level was set at p<0.05.

Results

Three hundred sixty-seven nurses attended in the study, giving a 91.06, percent rate of response. The mean spiritual care competence score among healthcare professionals was 3.14±0.74. Age (p<0.05), and training in spiritual care (p<0.05) were significantly associated with spiritual care competence.

Conclusions

Spiritual care competence was moderate among the nurses. Spiritual care competence varies in accordance with a number of factors, including age, and training in spiritual care. Nurses are better suited to focus on the spiritual health of clients, which necessitates the provision of spiritual care competence training for nurses.
Utility of machine learning in developing a predictive model for early-age-onset colorectal neoplasia using electronic health records
Authors: Hussan Hisham , Zhao Jing , Badu-Tawiah Abraham K. , Stanich Peter , Tabung Fred , Gray Darrell , Ma Qin , Kalady Matthew , Clinton Steven K.
Published: March 2022

Background and aims

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in adults younger than 50, and early screening remains challenging due to cost and under-utilization. To identify individuals aged 35–50 years who may benefit from early screening, we developed a prediction model using machine learning and electronic health record (EHR)-derived factors.

Methods

We enrolled 3,116 adults aged 35–50 at average-risk for CRC and underwent colonoscopy between 2017–2020 at a single center. Prediction outcomes were (1) CRC and (2) CRC or high-risk polyps. We derived our predictors from EHRs (e.g., demographics, obesity, laboratory values, medications, and zip code-derived factors). We constructed four machine learning-based models using a training set (random sample of 70% of participants): regularized discriminant analysis, random forest, neural network, and gradient boosting decision tree. In the testing set (remaining 30% of participants), we measured predictive performance by comparing C-statistics to a reference model (logistic regression).

Results

The study sample was 55.1% female, 32.8% non-white, and included 16 (0.05%) CRC cases and 478 (15.3%) cases of CRC or high-risk polyps. All machine learning models predicted CRC with higher discriminative ability compared to the reference model [e.g., C-statistics (95%CI); neural network: 0.75 (0.48–1.00) vs. reference: 0.43 (0.18–0.67); P = 0.07] Furthermore, all machine learning approaches, except for gradient boosting, predicted CRC or high-risk polyps significantly better than the reference model [e.g., C-statistics (95%CI); regularized discriminant analysis: 0.64 (0.59–0.69) vs. reference: 0.55 (0.50–0.59); P<0.0015]. The most important predictive variables in the regularized discriminant analysis model for CRC or high-risk polyps were income per zip code, the colonoscopy indication, and body mass index quartiles.

Discussion

Machine learning can predict CRC risk in adults aged 35–50 using EHR with improved discrimination. Further development of our model is needed, followed by validation in a primary-care setting, before clinical application.
Álvaro Siza's First Encounter with Alvar Aalto
Authors: De Sá Ana Luísa
Published: March 2022

This paper delves into the use of references in architecture. By being particularly open about this often controversial subject,  lvaro Siza proposes fascinating and important materials for reflection. This paper parses two takes on his use of references as particularly posited by theorists William Curtis in 1994 and Peter Testa a decade before him. It expands on the seminal relevance of Siza’s first encounter with Alvar Aalto. It argues the implications of the event, both immediate and yonder, highlighting, through Siza’s own words, clues to underlying processes in his (re)collection of references as an instrument of work. It readdresses Siza’s use of references in light of the complexities of the phenomena at play. This paper portrays a fragment of an ongoing research into Álvaro Siza’s modus pensandi and modus faciendi.
Green Synthesis of Purslane Seeds-Selenium Nanoparticles and Evaluate its
Cytokines Inhibitor in Lead Acetate Induced Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Naser Eldin Mohamed S. , Eissa Marwa T. , Mansour Mai T. , Abdelmonem Hanan A. , Ahmed Amira A. , Ali Norhan O. , El-haleem Mai A. Abd , Sayed Sayed A. , Emara Sara M. , Yousif Mohamed M. , Ibrahim Mohamed A. , Salem Mohamed A. , Ahmed Fakher M. , Hussein Mohammed A.
Published: March 2022

Lead is a heavy metal that produces toxicity in both humans and animals due to oxidative stress. The
aim of this study was to synthesize through green channel and evaluate hepatoprotective effect of
purslane seeds-selenium nanoparticles (PS-Se NPs) against lead acetate-induced liver toxicity. The
PS-Se NPs were made and their particle size and zeta potential were measured. In addition, the IC50 of
SP-Se NPs against the HepG-2 liver cancer cell line as well as and LD50 in rats were determined. The
PS-Se NPs had a mean particle size of around 54.70 ± 4.55 nm, a negative zeta potential of +17.25 and the
observed shape of the nanoparticle was spherical. Also, the IC50 of PS-Se NPs against HepG-2 liver
carcinoma cell line is 92.66 μg/mL and the LD50 is 1695 mg/kg b.w. Daily oral administration of
PS-Se NPs at concentrations of 33.9 and 84.75 mg/kg b.w. for 30 days to rats treated with lead acetate
(0.6 mg/kg b.w.) resulted in significant improvements in ALT, AST, ALP, TNF-α, Bcl-2, P53 and
MDA. In contrast, oral administration of PS-Se NPs increased the levels of SOD, GPx and GSH in the
liver tissue of lead acetate-treated rats. Furthermore, PS-Se NPs almost normalized these effects in
histoarchitecture and ultrasound scanning examination of liver tissue. The PS-Se NPs have protective
activity against lead acetate-induced liver tissue injury in rats, according to the biochemical, histological
and ultrasound scanning findings.
A Study on 4-(4-Aminobenzene-1-sulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl)(furan-2-yl)methanone
for the Prevention of Corrosion on Mild Steel in Acidic Medium
Authors: Singaravelu P. , Bhadusha N.
Published: March 2022

Synthesized [4-(4-aminobenzene-1-sulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl)(furan-2-yl)methanone (4-4-ABSPFM), a
novel organic compound was used as inhibitor on prevention of mild steel corrosion. Experiments
were performed in 1 N HCl acidic medium by weight loss method and electrochemical analysis. On
comparing the results, it reveals that the novel organic compound shows better inhibition efficiency on
mild steel corrosion, which is more effective in 1 N HCl at three different temperatures. Electrochemical
studies such as AC impedance and potentiodynamic polarization studies were proven the results by
showing the inhibitor is a mixed type inhibitor in acidic medium. From the semi-micrograph obtained
from SEM analysis shows a better efficiency of the inhibitor over the surface of the mild steel.
Synthesis of Novel Ionic Liquid Modified AC-Fe3O4 Magnetic
Nanocomposite for the Adsorption of Heavy Metals in Wastewater
Authors: Taziwa R.T. , Mungondori H. , Zarima Takunda
Published: March 2022

This study reports a novel magnetic nanoadsorbent prepared from magnetite (Fe3O4) as the magnetic
core, activated carbon from coal fly ash and an ionic liquid (1-methyl-3-ethylimidazolium chloride).
The magnetic nanoadsorbent was synthesized via co-precipitation and characterized by FTIR, XRD,
TEM, EDS and BET surface area analysis. Batch adsorption studies on cadmium (Cd2+) and lead
(Pb2+) solutions such as effect of pH, contact time and adsorbent dosage were carried out. The data
was analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich models. The results revealed that the optimal
adsorption conditions for both metal ions on synthesized nanoadsorbent were pH 6, 200 min, adsorbent
dosage of 1.5 g/L, initial ion concentration of 10 ppm and a temperature of 25 ºC. The data obtained in
the adsorption of Cd2+ and Pb2+ best fitted the Freundlich isotherm, with R2 values of 0.998 and 0.995,
respectively. Thermodynamic and kinetic studies suggested that adsorption of both metal ions on the
IL-AC-Fe3O4 nanocomposite followed the pseudo first order model. The synthesised nanoadsorbent
(IL-AC-Fe3O4) exhibits good adsorption properties and has great potential in a water treatment
technology.
Quantum Chemical Investigation of 1-Aminohomopiperidine in Treatment of Breast Cancer Based on Molecular Docking Strategy
Authors: Jeyavijayan S. , Ramuthai M. , Murugan Palani
Published: March 2022

The density functional theory DFT-B3LYP strategy is promising technique for investigating the molecular structure, wavenumber assignments and several structural properties. The compounds with piperidine ring were valuable substrates in the development of drugs. Therefore, this work was carried out for 1-aminohomopiperidine (1AHP) with B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) calculations. Broad frequency analyses, molecular stability interactions and charge exchanges of the molecule have been detailed by natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. Frontier molecular orbital analysis and the UV absorption have been studied by using DFT method. Furthermore, the molecular docking results exposed that the title molecule has a good binding affinity to the active sites interaction with ERα (estrogen receptor alpha) and used as a potential agent of breast cancer efficacy.
Applications of Nanomaterials for Adsorptive and
Catalytic Removal of Chemical Pesticides: An Overview
Authors: Sahithya K. , Kounin Sabha , Sahana P. , Arjun K.P.
Published: March 2022

Chemical pesticides are one of the most frequently encountered pollutants in multiple water sources
and made their way into biomagnification. Short-term exposure to pesticides causes headache, vomiting,
nausea, blurred vision, pupil constriction, muscle tremors, excessive sweating, etc. whereas prolonged
exposure can lead to severe neurological problems, coma and even death. However, conventional
methods have been proved to be inefficient in complete removal of pesticides. Over the past few years,
nanotechnology is considered to play a significant role in influencing the current environmental
engineering and science owing to their excellent physico-chemical properties and tuneable
functionalities. Nanomaterials are massively enrolled as adsorbents and photocatalysts for the removal
of various chemical pesticides from different sources. In present article, the applicability of different
nanomaterials for the removal of various pesticides via adsorption and photocatalytic degradation
from aqueous environment was discussed. Furthermore, the influence of surface treatment to their
functionalities and efficiencies was reviewed and highlighted.
Electrochemical, Quantum Chemical and Surface Analysis Studies using Novel Schiff Bases for the Inhibition Mild Steel Corrosion in Sulphuric Acid Medium
Authors: Ragu M. , Karuppasamy P. , Thirupathi J. , Ganesan M. , Rajendran T. , Sivasubramanian V.K.
Published: March 2022

The influence of two newly synthesized salophen Schiff bases, namely N,N′-bis(5-nitrosalicylidene)- 1,2-phenylenediamine (BNSPD) and N,N′-bis(5-chlorosalicylidene)-o-phenylenediamine (BCSPD), for inhibiting mild steel corrosion was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization, weight loss and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in 0.5 M H2SO4 media. The results indicated that the inhibition efficiency of the inhibitors increased and decreased with the increase in the inhibitor concentration and temperature, respectively. Potentiodynamic polarization measurements revealed that the two inhibitors exhibited mixed type. The standard free energy (ΔGºads) and equilibrium constant of adsorption (Kads) were calculated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques were used to investigate the surface morphology of the mild steel in the absence and presence of inhibitors. DFT calculations were performed to correlate the molecular structure and quantum chemical parameters with inhibition performance.
An Efficient and One Pot Synthesis of 2,4,5-Trisubstituted
Imidazole Derivatives Catalyzed by Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Bagwan S.M. , Asif Mohamad
Published: March 2022

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been used as an excellent and highly efficient catalyst for one pot
synthesis of 2,4,5-trisubstituted imidazole derivatives in presence of ethanol as a solvent. This synthetic
route involves multicomponent reaction of benzil, substituted aromatic aldehydes and ammonium
acetate under reflux. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy
(UV-visible), X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, scanning electronic microscope (SEM) analysis. The
process was simple and environmentally benign with high to excellent yield. The methods provides
several advantages such as simple operation, clean reaction profile, short reaction time and high yield
of product. The synthesized silver nanoparticles as catalyst was non-toxic, eco-friendly, low cost and
green synthetic method.
Crystallization Kinetics and Characterization of Solution
Grown of Leucine Phthalic Acid Single Crystals
Authors: Senthil R. , Vijayaraghavan G.V. , Fathima M. Ismail , Mohamed S. Beer , Ayeshamariam A.
Published: March 2022

Single crystal of L-leucine phthalic acid was grown in slow evaporation technique at room temperature.
The grown crystal is 7 mm × 2 mm × 1 mm in size. XRD, FT-IR, TG-DTA, UV, EDAX and SEM are
all used to characterize a single crystal of L-leucine phthalic acid on dielectric characteristics, hardness
and non-linear optical (NLO) properties. According to the findings, the effectiveness of L-LPA crystals
is primarily determined by the surface quality of the crystals, which includes their capacity to resist
high power intensities as well as their linear and non-linear optical characteristics.
Quantification of Phenolic Compounds in the Extract of Wine Production
Residues of Wild Grape Fruits and their Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Motham P. , Srihanam P.
Published: March 2022

The objectives of this work are to quantify the phenolic compounds in the extract of wine production
residues using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and its antibacterial activity. The
results indicated that gallic acid and quercetin are the highest contents for phenolic acid and flavonoid,
respectively. The extract showed efficiency against 12 bacterial strains which have more potency on
Salmonella typhi (DMST 16122), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25293) and Bacillus cereus (ATCC
11778). The concentration for inhibition (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) of the extract on selected
bacterial was in range of 500-250 μg/mL. This suggested that the wild grape residues from wine
production composed of different phenolic substances, which could be used for inhibition of many
bacteria.
One-Pot Super Critical Fluid Synthesis of Spinel MnFe2O4
Nanoparticles and its Application as Anode Material for Mg-ion Battery
Authors: Gangaraju Vinay , Sardar Tathagata , Roy Kunal , Shastri Mahesh , Shetty Manjunath , Muniyappa Murthy , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Tomai Takaaki , C S Ananda Kumar , Shivaramu Prasanna D. , Rangappa Dinesh
Published: March 2022

In present study, the synthesis of spinel MnFe2O4 nanoparticles using a facile one-pot super critical
fluid method and their application for Mg-ion battery application as anode materials is reported. The
synthesized MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were well characterized for their structure and morphology using
XRD, SEM, TEM and EDS analysis. The average particle size of materials was less than 50 nm with
spinel structure. The main feature of magnesium ion battery is its high specific capacity and large
volumetric energy density, which makes it a promising alternative to Li-ion batteries. The spinel
MnFe2O4 material has been used as an anode material for Mg-ion batteries. At different C-rates (0.05C
to 2C), electrochemical charge-discharge behaviour has been observed. In first cycle of the phase-pure
spinel structured anode, an initial specific capacity of 195.82 mAh/g, 139.70 mAh/g, 25.04 mAh/g
and 14.16 mAh/g were obtained at C rate of 0.05C, 0.1C, 1C and 2C, respectively. A possible phase
conversion reaction of the anode resulted in a decrease in specific capacity with increasing C-rate.
In vitro Assessment of Antioxidant and Anticancer Potential of
Flavonoid Glycosides of Glinus oppositifolius (L.) Aug. DC.
Authors: Kannan K. Suresh , Kandavel D. , Rajalakshmi P.
Published: March 2022

Development of unbalanced state of free radicals and their elimination in the body is the reason for
increase in different types of chronic diseases including cancer. A better natural supplement to play
role of antioxidants to combat the free radicals and to reduce the risk of cancer is in high demand. This
current research work focused on identifying such a potent phytocompounds from Glinus oppositifolius
(L.) Aug. DC. The active compounds of the aerial parts of the plant have been extracted using methanol
and the phytochemical analysis was carried out using qualitative tests, FTIR and GC-MS. The plant
extract found to contain range of phyto compounds with good amounts of flavonoid and xylofuranoside.
Flavonoid glycoside from the plant extract has been partially purified through chromatography and
tested for efficiency against free radicals through in vitro antioxidant assays. The partially purified
compound showed good antioxidant activity equivalent to 62.12 to 63.35 μg of rutin standard. Further
cytotoxic nature of the flavonoid glycoside was also assessed against breast cancer MDA-MB-231
cell line. The tested compound has shown cancerous cell controlling ability (76.68% cell death in 24
h). The immense antioxidant and anticancer potential of flavonoid glycosides of G. oppositifolius
could be utilized as a good source of natural, antioxidant supplement under nutraceuticals to prevent
oxidative-stress-related disorders and also as therapeutic compound to cure cancer under
pharmaceuticals.
An Experimental Analysis of Silk Cocoon Layer-PANI Polymer
Composite as Electrode for Thermoelectric Generator Application
Authors: Muralidhar Sindhu Sree , Marlingaiah Navyarani , Gangaraju Vinay , Shastri Mahesh , Muniyappa Murthy , Singh Sushil Kumar , Shivaramu Prasanna D. , C S Ananda Kumar , Rangappa Dinesh
Published: March 2022

In this study, a silk cocoon layer (SCL) was surface coated with polyaniline (PANI), which serves as
an electrode for thermoelectric generator (TEG) application. Here, the PANI was synthesized using
the sol-gel method and coated on both sides of SCL using doctor-blade method. The efficiency of
converting thermal energy into electrical energy was analyzed with a temperature range from 30 to 60
ºC. The TG-DTA analysis was performed to evaluate thermal stability. An evident change in the
resistance was noticed for both cold (~5 °C) and heat (60 ºC) respective temperatures. Thus, this study
provides a new biomaterial-based TEG electrode for waste heat recovery system/thermal management.
QSAR Studies of Flavonoids and Isoflavonoids with PTP1B: A Potential
Pharmacological Target for the Treatment of Insulin Resistance
Authors: Rath Prangya , Ranjan Anuj , Chauhan Abhishek , Verma Naval Kumar , Jindal Tanu
Published: March 2022

This study deals with designing and validating QSAR models generated for 45 flavonoids having
PTP1B inhibition properties. Eight molecular descriptors/pharmacophoric features of each flavonoid
along with their reported IC50 values against PTP1B were utilized to prepare training sets and generate
models. It was developed by employing linear regression to calculate the predicted IC50 values. The
generated models were validated using reported IC50 values of test sets. The correlation R2 values were
observed to be in the following order, 92.45% (for an increasing hydrogen bond donor), 92.08% (for
randomly sorting), 91.85% (for increasing molecular weight), 84.19% (for increasing hydrogen bond
acceptor), 64.91% (for increasing TPSA), 53.90% (for increasing number of rotatable bonds) and
52.28% (for increasing log P); signifying the role of these pharmacophoric features while drug designing.
Molecular docking of the flavonoids with the PTP1B active site revealed interactions with catalytic
site and adjacent loops. The models would be beneficial for further studies for drug designing against
PTP1B inhibition and therapeutic implications for treatment of insulin resistance.
Der Weg zu »Geist und Kunst«
Authors: Nied Marius
Published: March 2022

Durch den Erfolg der 1903 erschienenen Volksausgabe von »Buddenbrooks« eröffnet sich dem jungen Thomas Mann die Möglichkeit, die prestigeträchtige Position des »deutschen Nationalschriftstellers« einzunehmen. Marius Nied untersucht in diesem Buch, mit welchen Mitteln Mann dies durchzusetzen versucht und inwiefern er darin erfolgreich ist. Die Untersuchung dieser Positionierungsversuche erfolgt im Rahmen der Bourdieuschen Theorie des literarischen Feldes, mittels derer Nied Thomas Manns Entwicklung nachzeichnet. Der Untersuchungszeitraum reicht von Manns ersten Veröffentlichungen in der Schülerzeitung »Der Frühlingssturm« (1893) über das Scheitern der großen Abhandlung über »Geist und Kunst« (um 1910) bis zur Veröffentlichung seiner berühmten Novelle »Der Tod in Venedig« (1912).