bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics study of atracurium, dexmedetomidine, midazolam and 1-hydroxymidazolam in patients undergoing acute aortic dissection surgery
Authors: Si Huiling , Xu Xuanxuan , Liang Yuhao , Shi Shuaibo , Xie Fan , Hu Jie
Published: October 2024

Objective

An UPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of atracurium (ATC), dexmedetomidine (DEX), midazolam (MDZ) and 1-hydroxymidazolam (1-OH-MDZ) and the pharmacokinetics of ATC, DEX, MDZ and 1-OH-MDZ in patients undergoing aortic dissection surgery were investigated.

Methods

The analytes were extracted by acetonitrile precipitation and separated on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) with a mobile phase of acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid and a gradient mode. In the positive ion mode, the following mass transition pairs were monitored by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) for the four analytes and IS: m/z 385.1→206.2 for ATC, m/z 201.2→95.1 for DEX, m/z 326.1→291.1 for MDZ, m/z 341.9→324.0 for 1-OH-MDZ, and 284.9→153.9 for diazepam (IS). Seven male patients undergoing aortic dissection surgery received general anesthesia and intravenous administration of ATC, DEX, and MDZ during the surgery. Venous blood was collected at different time points at the end of surgery and after surgery. The concentrations of ATC, DEX, MDZ, and 1-OH-MDZ were detected, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated.

Results

The method showed good linearity for each analyte. The inter-batch precision ranged from 1.37% to 9.87% and the intra-batch precision ranged from 2.41% to 10.72%; the accuracy ranged from 94.33% to 104.51%. Finally, the matrix effect, extraction recovery and stability data met the FDA recommended acceptance criteria for validation of bioanalytical methods. The t1/2 of ATC, DEX, MDZ and 1-OH-MDZ was (6.74 ± 2.27) h, (9.55 ± 4.93) h, (10.17 ± 5.35) h, and (6.90 ± 2.38) h, the Cmax, of ATC, DEX, MDZ and 1-OH-MDZ was (1054.20 ± 202.37) ng/mL, (1.93 ± 1.07) ng/mL, (1256.57 ± 389.09) ng/mL, and (1034.39 ± 292.92) ng/mL in patients undergoing aortic dissection surgery, respectively.

Conclusion

The developed UPLC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of ATC, DEX, MDZ and 1-OH-MDZ in patient plasma was accurate, reproducible, specific. After continuous administration of ATC, DEX, and MDZ to patients undergoing surgery for acute aortic dissection, the pharmacokinetics of ATC, DEX, MDZ and 1-OH-MDZ in patients undergoing aortic dissection surgery were studied.
pH-sensitive supramolecular self-assembled peptide hydrogel for the treatment of esophageal cancer
Authors: Ye Gaobing , Luo Shiyao , Zafar Hajra , Ge Honglei , Liu Binbin , Wang Nan , Jin Yu , Wang Miao , Chen Xu , Ye Xiaoming
Published: October 2024

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, ranking sixth in cancer-related mortality. Doxorubicin (DOX), as a classic broad-spectrum, non-specific small-molecular anti-tumor drug, has achieved widespread use, including in the treatment of esophageal cancer. However, due to its strong cardiotoxicity, poor tumor-targeting ability, and short half-life, the clinical application of DOX has been greatly limited. In this research, we designed and successfully synthesized a peptide sequence IEIIIK (IEK for short) with excellent pH responsiveness. Under physiological conditions (pH 7.4), the peptide can encapsulate DOX and self-assemble into a stable hydrogel (DOX-IEK) through hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. After being injected into the acidic tumor microenvironment, the protonation degree of alkaline amino acid lysine increased and the negative charge of glutamate decreased, directly leading to enhanced electrostatic repulsion and subsequent hydrogel dissociation. Released DOX can accumulate in tumor tissue and achieve anti-tumor efficacy. More importantly, the hydrogel can act as a drug reservoir for sustained drug release, improving the drug targeting ability, prolonging the duration of drug administration to compensate for the short half-life of DOX, and reducing systemic toxicity. Ideal anti-tumor efficacy has been achieved in both the in vitro and in vivo experiments.
DREADD agonist compound 21 causes acute diuresis in wild-type mice
Authors: MacIver Bryce , Wu Ali , Hill Warren G. , Yu Weiqun
Published: October 2024

The targeted activation or inhibition of specific cell populations using chemogenetics allows the precise dissection of cellular signaling and function. Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) is a chemogenetic platform initially developed by mutating human muscarinic receptors to be unresponsive to endogenous acetylcholine but exclusively activated by an “inert” designer drug. Compound 21 (C21) is a new and potent DREADD agonist; however, radioligand assays from a recent report indicated its ability to bind to endogenous G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including muscarinic M1–3 receptors. Whether this binding causes off-target effects is unclear. Renal innervation is important for the regulation of renal function, and the advent of chemogenetic tools provides significant opportunities for the mechanistic understanding of renal innervation and function. GPCRs such as adrenergic and muscarinic receptors play a role in renal function; thus, a careful pharmacological characterization of C21 in renal function is a prerequisite for this approach. Unexpectedly, an infusion of 1.0 mg/kg C21 in anesthetized mice caused an ∼4-fold increase in urine output and correspondingly increased the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), suggesting a C21-mediated acute diuretic effect. This acute diuresis effect was further confirmed in awake mice using voiding spot assays. The exact molecular mechanism for C21-mediated diuresis is unclear; however, we demonstrated by in vitro myography that C21 can effectively inhibit bladder smooth muscle contraction by antagonizing M3 receptors at the micromolar level, causing increased voiding size in vivo. In summary, C21 functions as a GPCR antagonist and has significant dose-dependent off-target effects in the renal system.
Didang Tang alleviates neuronal ferroptosis after intracerebral hemorrhage by modulating the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP/GPX4 signaling pathway
Authors: Lu Jing , Xu Hanying , Li Li , Tang Xiaolei , Zhang Ying , Zhang Dongmei , Xu Peng , Sun Liwei , Wang Jian
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Ferroptosis is a crucial process contributing to neuronal damage following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Didang Tang (DDT), a traditional therapeutic, has been used clinically to manage ICH for many years, yet the molecular mechanisms by which by DDT protects neurons from ferroptosis after ICH remain elusive.

Methods

This study utilized high-performance liquid chromatography-based fingerprint analysis to characterize DDT’s chemical composition. An ICH rat model and hemin and erastin-induced PC12 cell ferroptosis models were developed to investigate DDT’s neuroprotective mechanisms. Histological assessments of brain tissue morphology and iron deposition were performed using hematoxylin-eosin, Nissl, and Perl’s blue staining. Neurological function was evaluated using Longa and Berderson scores, while lipid peroxidation was measured using biochemical assays and flow cytometry. Protein expression levels of ferroptosis- and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related markers were analyzed via Western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Results

Our results demonstrated that DDT reduced hematoma volume, decreased iron deposition, lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and upregulated glutathione peroxidase (GPX4) and SLC7A11 expression in affected brain regions. Furthermore, DDT downregulated GRP78 expression and inhibited the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP/GPX4 pathway, exerting strong neuroprotective effects. The fluorescence staining results of MAP2/GPX4 and MAP2/CHOP suggested that DDT may regulate neuronal ferroptosis and ERs to exert the protective effect. In vitro experiments using hemin- and erastin-induced neuron-derived PC12 cells as neuronal ferroptosis models developed in our laboratory corroborated these in vivo findings, showing increased survival and reduced lipid peroxidation in DDT-treated cells, along with similar inhibitory effects on ferroptosis and ERS. Molecular docking suggested that DDT components, such as sennoside B, amygdalin, rhein, and emodin, interact favorably with PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP signaling pathway proteins, highlighting their potential role in DDT’s anti-ferroptosis effects.

Conclusion

DDT alleviates neuronal ferroptosis after ICH by modulating the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP/GPX4 signaling pathway. Overall, this study provides novel insights into DDT’s protective mechanisms against ICH-induced neuronal injury by modulating ferroptosis and ERS pathways, underscoring its potential as an effective therapeutic strategy.
Flavonoids in natural products for the therapy of liver diseases: progress and future opportunities
Authors: Liao Yanmei , Lv Fei , Quan Tianwen , Wang Chuan , Li Jike
Published: October 2024

The liver is the largest, important organ and the site for essential biochemical reactions in the human body. It has the function to detoxify toxic substances and synthesize useful biomolecules. Liver diseases related complications represent a significant source of morbidity and mortality worldwide, creating a substantial economic burden. Oxidative stress, excessive inflammation, and dysregulated energy metabolism significantly contributed to liver diseases. Therefore, discovery of novel therapeutic drugs for the treatment of liver diseases are urgently required. For centuries, flavonoids and their preparations which have the beneficial health effects in chronic diseases have been used to treat various human illnesses. Flavonoids mainly include flavones, isoflavones, flavanols, dihydroflavones, dihydroflavonols, anthocyanins and chalcones. The primary objective of this review is to assess the efficacy and safety of flavonoids, mainly from a clinical point of view and considering clinically relevant end-points. We summarized the recent progress in the research of hepatoprotective and molecular mechanisms of different flavonoids bioactive ingredients and also outlined the networks of underlying molecular signaling pathways. Further pharmacology and toxicology research will contribute to the development of natural products in flavonoids and their derivatives as medicines with alluring prospect in the clinical application.
Multi-omics reveals the alleviating effect of berberine on ulcerative colitis through modulating the gut microbiome and bile acid metabolism in the gut-liver axis
Authors: Yu Jingsheng , Zheng Yixuan , Liu Changmin , Xie Zhuangyuan , Liu Qingqing , Yang Shuai , Tian Qianqian , Song Chi , Chen Shilin
Published: October 2024

The dysfunction of gut microbiome and bile acid metabolism might cause the incidence and relapse of ulcerative colitis (UC). Thus, natural products have been considered effective for UC through the regulation of gut microbiome and bile acid. In this study, we evaluated the regulatory effect of berberine on gut microbiome and bile acid metabolism in UC. Results showed that the relative abundances of beneficial bacteria showed a decreasing trend in the UC model, and the taurine conjugated bile acids increased from the liver tissue to the colon tissue. Berberine inhibited the colonization of harmful bacteria and promoted the primary bile acid metabolism. Moreover, we used multi-omics technology (metagenomics, metabolomics, and transcriptomics technology) to reveal that berberine restored the intestinal barrier function through bile acid/S1PR2/RhoA/ROCK pathway. The result of transmission electron microscopy directly showed that the damaged intestinal mucosal barrier was repaired through the berberine treatment. This study revealed the treatment influence on UC through multi-omics technology in vitro and in vivo models, which provides references for explaining the mechanism of berberine on UC.
An ensemble model for predicting dyslipidemia using 3-years continuous physical examination data
Authors: Zhang Naiwen , Guo Xiaolong , Yu Xiaxia , Tan Zhen , Cai Feiyue , Dai Ping , Guo Jing , Dan Guo
Published: October 2024

Background

Dyslipidemia has emerged as a significant clinical risk, with its associated complications, including atherosclerosis and ischemic cerebrovascular disease, presenting a grave threat to human well-being. Hence, it holds paramount importance to precisely predict the onset of dyslipidemia. This study aims to use ensemble technology to establish a machine learning model for the prediction of dyslipidemia.

Methods

This study included three consecutive years of physical examination data of 2,479 participants, and used the physical examination data of the first two years to predict whether the participants would develop dyslipidemia in the third year. Feature selection was conducted through statistical methods and the analysis of mutual information between features. Five machine learning models, including support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), K nearest neighbor (KNN) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were utilized as base learners to construct the ensemble model. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the model.

Results

Experimental results show that the ensemble model achieves superior performance across several metrics, achieving an AUC of 0.88 ± 0.01 (P < 0.001), surpassing the base learners by margins of 0.04 to 0.20. Calibration curves and DCA exhibited good predictive performance as well. Furthermore, this study explores the minimal necessary feature set for accurate prediction, finding that just the top 12 features were required for dependable outcomes. Among them, HbA1c and CEA are key indicators for model construction.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the proposed ensemble model has good predictive performance and has the potential to become an effective tool for personal health management.
Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder exhibit intact physical causal inference but weak intention inference
Authors: Liu Meng-Jung
Published: October 2024

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show impaired mentalizing skills, specifically in understanding intentions. They have difficulty understanding social situations with multiple cues due to their limited ability to perceive subtle social contextual cues. Studies that used comic strips and the strange stories as intention attribution tests found that individuals with ASD exhibit a reduced ability in attributing intentions compared to inferring causal consequences. This study aims to use static photographs of social scenes taken in everyday settings to investigate the ability of adolescents with ASD to infer intentions in social contexts, and to explore how intention inference relates to working memory and basic attention, including sustained attention, selective attention, and divided attention. The results show that the physical causal inference ability of adolescents with ASD is comparable to typically developing adolescents, whereas intention inference is notably weaker. Furthermore, working memory predicts physical causal inference and divided attention predicts intention inference in ASD.
Generation paths of online public opinion impact in public health emergency: a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis based on Chinese data
Authors: Liu Teng , Hu Xiangming , Dong Qiangqiang
Published: October 2024

Public health emergencies can quickly provoke alarm and shock in the society, as well as generate high-impact online public opinion through network fermentation. Analyzing the generation mechanism of online public opinion in public health emergencies helps to explain its characteristics and laws. Based on information ecology theory, seven indicators from the four dimensions of information person, information, information technology, and information environment are extracted, and the analysis framework of public opinion impact of public health emergencies is constructed. Taking 40 cases from China as samples, fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to investigate the generation path and mechanism of online public opinion impact in public health emergency. The results suggest that: information person and information technology are the core conditions for the generation of high-impact online public opinion, but the harm level contained in the information itself is not sensitive to the generation of public opinion impact; there are four generation paths and three types that drive the generation of high-impact online public opinion in public health emergencies. This work enriches the cognition of the causality of public opinion impact in public health emergencies from the perspective of configuration, and clearly shows which combination of variables leads to high-impact online public opinion, and helps to prevent and reduce the risk of public opinion.
Psychosocial resilience surrounding age-typical losses among older adults in Sweden: group-based trajectories over a 25-year-period
Authors: Agahi Neda , Augustsson Erika , McGarrigle Christine , Rostgaard Tine , Fritzell Johan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Resilience is an important but often neglected aspect of healthy or successful aging. This study used a new approach for modelling psychosocial resilience to investigate responses when faced with age-typical losses. Rather than viewing resilience as a trait, we modelled trajectories of life satisfaction when faced with partner or functional loss in later life to identify resilient trajectories. Then, we examined characteristics associated with belonging to resilient trajectories.

Method

We analyzed longitudinal data from the individually linked Swedish LNU and SWEOLD surveys collected repeatedly between 1991 and 2021 (N = 450). A group-based trajectory modelling technique was used to obtain trajectories of life satisfaction over time, centered around the first identified loss. Identified losses (widowhood, loss of mobility and loss of vision), occurred between ages 60 and 98.

Results

Four trajectories of life satisfaction surrounding loss were identified, labelled Declining (46%), Non-recovering (24%), Recovering (16%), and Bouncing back (14%). The latter two were categorized as resilient. Individuals in resilient trajectories were more likely to be younger, engaged more with their friends after the loss, reported fewer mental health problems both before and after the loss, and had a higher sense of control before the loss.

Discussion

Several interesting patterns of long-term change in life satisfaction were found in response to loss. Contrasting earlier findings, only about one-third of the sample was categorized as resilient. The two resilient trajectories were characterized by either quick adaptation or a slower adaptive process. Increasing or maintaining social networks, particularly friendships, after an age-typical loss may promote resilience.
Risk distribution of human infections with avian influenza A (H5N1, H5N6, H9N2 and H7N9) viruses in China
Authors: Qu Rongrong , Chen Mengsha , Chen Can , Cao Kexin , Wu Xiaoyue , Zhou Wenkai , Qi Jiaxing , Miao Jiani , Yan Dong , Yang Shigui
Published: October 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate epidemiologic characteristics of major human infection with avian influenza and explore the factors underlying the spatial distributions, particularly H5N6 and H9N2, as H9N2 could directly infect mankind and contribute partial or even whole internal genes to generate novel human-lethal reassortants such as H5N6. They pose potential threats to public health and agriculture.

Methods

This study collected cases of H5N1, H5N6, H9N2, and H7N9 in China, along with data on ecoclimatic, environmental, social and demographic factors at the provincial level. Boosted regression tree (BRT) models, a popular approach to ecological studies, has been commonly used for risk mapping of infectious diseases, therefore, it was used to investigate the association between these variables and the occurrence of human cases for each subtype, as well as to map the probabilities of human infections.

Results

A total of 1,123 H5N1, H5N6, H9N2, and H7N9 human cases have been collected in China from 2011 to 2024. Factors including density of pig and density of human population emerged as common significant predictors for H5N1 (relative contributions: 5.3, 5.8%), H5N6 (10.8, 6.4%), H9N2 (11.2, 7.3%), and H7N9 (9.4, 8.0%) infection. Overall, each virus has its own ecological and social drivers. The predicted distribution probabilities for H5N1, H5N6, H9N2, and H7N9 presence are highest in Guangxi, Sichuan, Guangdong, and Jiangsu, respectively, with values of 0.86, 0.96, 0.93 and 0.99.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the important role of social and demographic factors in the infection of different avian influenza, and suggested that monitoring and control of predicted high-risk areas should be prioritized.
Impact of cerebrovascular stroke on inflammatory periodontal indices: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of case-control studies
Authors: Dioguardi Mario , Bizzoca Maria Eleonora , Cantore Stefania , Caloro Giorgia Apollonia , Musella Gennaro , Mastrangelo Filiberto , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Ballini Andrea
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Cerebrovascular stroke, a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, is influenced by several modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and smoking. Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of inflammation in stroke pathogenesis, with conditions like periodontitis potentially exacerbating this risk. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and quantify the real impact of periodontal disease in individuals with cerebral stroke through the analysis of inflammatory periodontal indices

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control studies assessing periodontal indices in stroke patients. Data sources included PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, with searches extended to grey literature. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024529767). Studies were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess risk of bias, and meta-analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and TSA software.

Results

The review included seven case-control studies, comprising 723 stroke patients and 787 controls. Meta-analyses revealed significant differences between stroke and control groups in clinical attachment loss [MD 1.04 mm, 95% CI (0.54, 1.54)], probing pocket depth [MD 0.68 mm, 95% CI (0.31, 10.6)], and radiological bone loss (MD 2.15 mm, 95% CI [−1.58, 5.89]. These findings indicate that stroke patients exhibit worse periodontal health compared to controls, supporting a potential link between periodontal inflammation and stroke.

Conclusion

This study confirms the significant impact of periodontal disease on stroke patients and highlights the importance of oral health in preventing adverse cerebrovascular events.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier (CRD42024529767).
Anthropometric and mechanical factors determining sprint in young soccer players: a brief report
Authors: Bustamante-Garrido Alejandro , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Brito Ciro , Silva-Esparza Danilo , Pérez-Contreras Jorge , Izquierdo-Redin Mikel , Cerda-Kohler Hugo
Published: October 2024

Sprint performance is a critical factor in soccer. While previous studies have extensively explored the biomechanical, physiological, and metabolic determinants of sprinting, the impact of anthropometric variables in team sports contexts, especially soccer, remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate the influence of anthropometric and mechanical variables on sprint performance in young soccer players. Fifty-eight young soccer players were evaluated in anthropometry and a 30-meter (m) sprint using radar technology. Split times in 5, 15, and 30 m were determined, in addition to the assessment of the force-velocity profile proposed by Morin and Samozino. Results: Key anthropometric variables associated with improved sprint performance included lower-limb muscle mass at distances 5 and 15 m (R2 = 0.08 and R2 = 0.09, respectively, both with small effects). Additionally, body composition, particularly a lower % body fat, was crucial across all sprint distances (ES: large). Among the mechanical variables, max power (R2 = 0.997, ES: large) and maximum velocity (R2 = 0.553, ES: large) are the mechanical variables that were most strongly associated with sprint performance over distances greater than 30 m. Soccer coaches, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning specialists working with young athletes can apply the findings of this study to their training programming.
Interlinking financial stability regulation and governance in German professional soccer: contribution and implications
Authors: Adam Sandy , Bachmaier Birgit
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study explores the integration of financial stability regulation in professional soccer within the framework of sport governance, focusing on the German context. The research examines how financial regulations influence key governance principles such as accountability, transparency, and sustainability, while also addressing the challenges posed by the dynamic nature of professional soccer.

Methods

A qualitative methodology was employed, using focus group discussions with nine experts, including representatives from soccer clubs, auditing firms and other relevant stakeholders. The discussions aimed to capture diverse perspectives on the impact of financial stability regulation on governance practices within the German soccer league and clubs.

Results

The findings reveal that financial stability regulation is effective in promoting financial discipline and accountability at both league and club levels. However, the study also identifies challenges, such as the need for greater harmonization of regulatory frameworks across different levels of professional soccer and the potential benefits of implementing incentive mechanisms within the financial stability regulation to improve governance at the league and club levels.

Discussion

The study underscores the importance of a multi-dimensional approach to financial stability regulation, considering political, systemic, and organizational dimensions. It highlights the potential for improving governance through the adoption of independent governance models and more practical applications of governance principles. Future research could further explore these areas, offering insights that could enhance the effectiveness of financial regulation in professional soccer and potentially other sport contexts.
Arthropod arbiters: natural enemy communities mediate the effects of landscape and local-scale complexity on Lygus-induced crop loss in organic strawberries
Authors: Lu Adrian , Gonthier David , Sciligo Amber , Garcia Karina , Chiba Taiki , Juárez Gila , Kremen Claire
Published: October 2024

Sustainable pest management requires growers and regional land managers to consider the relationships among pest management practices, pest and natural enemy communities, crop loss, and multi-scalar habitat complexity. However, the causal links among these variables, in particular potential interactions between landscape and local-scale habitat complexity, remain underexplored. In the context of organically managed strawberry crops in California’s Central Coast, we tested the independent effects of landscape and local habitat complexity gradients on arthropod communities and crop loss using a piecewise structural equation model (PSEM). We found that landscape-scale woody habitat proportion indirectly decreased crop loss through its positive effect on natural enemy abundance, while grassland proportion had the opposite effect due to its association with an important strawberry pest (Lygus spp.). We detected a pattern suggesting that on-farm diversification practices are most effective at reducing crop loss at an intermediate level (26%) of woody habitat proportion. Both organic-compliant insecticide application and tractor vacuuming negatively impacted natural enemies, and therefore had qualified effects on crop loss. Our study shows the key roles of native woodlands and natural enemy communities in reducing crop loss and highlights the importance of managing habitat complexity at both landscape and local scales.
Sex differences in inflammatory parameters after shoulder arthroplasty and blood loss
Authors: Hertling Stefan , Schleußner Ekkehard , Loos Franziska Maria , Eckhardt Niklas , Kaiser Mario , Graul Isabel
Published: October 2024

Background

In many diseases, sex differences in diagnostics and therapy play role that is increasingly becoming recognized as important. C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) levels are determined as inflammatory markers to detect inflammation and even infection after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The general course of white blood cell, CRP, and hemoglobin (Hb) levels after TSA is well known, but there is insufficient evidence of a possible association with sex. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether there is an influence of sex on CRP, WBCs, and Hb after TSA in the first 10 days after surgery in a complication-free course in male and female patients and to re-evaluate the specific postoperative CRP, WBC, and Hb course with their maximums (minimum for Hb) and further course until the end of the inpatient period.

Methods

We retrospectively studied patients treated with TSA, reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and prosthesis replacement between 2015 and 2021. Patients with active inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, secondary osteoarthritis, active cancer, and documented postoperative complications were not included. CRP, WBC, and Hb levels before shoulder arthroplasty (SA) and up to 10 days after SA were recorded and analyzed for sex differences.

Results

Data from a total of 316 patients (209 women and 107 men) were finally analyzed. There were no sex differences in the CRP and WBC values, but women had significantly lower preoperative Hb values, postoperative Hb values, and minimum Hb values. There were no significant differences in Hb, CRP, or WBC levels in the prosthesis exchange group.

Conclusion

The progression of CRP and WBC levels showed no sex-specific significant differences after TSA within the first 7 postoperative days. The study confirmed a decreased Hb value for women at all stages of SA. Blood loss was significantly higher for RSA than for TSA for both men and women.
C-arm CT scanning combined with simple laser device-assisted puncture therapy for cerebellar hemorrhage
Authors: Chen Yang , Li Chenglong , Wang Qingbo , Li Zefu
Published: October 2024

Background

Cerebellar hemorrhage is a severe cerebrovascular disease. The small posterior fossa space can cause compression of surrounding brain tissue with even a small amount of bleeding, leading to increased intracranial pressure, disruption of blood supply to surrounding brain tissue, and exacerbation of brain function damage. The most common surgical approach currently is craniotomy for hematoma evacuation, inevitably causing damage to surrounding nerves and blood vessels. In this study, we introduced C-arm CT scanning combined with simple laser device technology to assist in puncture drainage for cerebellar hemorrhage, aiming to improve the accuracy of surgery and maximize the protection of patients’ brain function, providing a physiological basis for better clinical prognosis.

Materials and methods

From January 2023 to February 2024, a total of 8 patients (6 males, 2 females) with cerebellar hemorrhage underwent C-arm CT-assisted puncture therapy combined with a simple laser device at the affiliated hospital of Binzhou Medical University. Statistical analysis was performed on operation time, number of punctures, impact on important structures and vessels, postoperative hematoma clearance, complications, and neurological function recovery.

Results

All 8 patients underwent the surgery smoothly without causing damage to important structures or blood vessels. There was no rebleeding intraoperatively. Among the 8 patients, 5 were discharged smoothly, while 3 patients opted to discontinue treatment and requested discharge. At the 3-month follow-up, 3 patients showed no ataxia, while 2 patients had impaired cerebellar motor function.

Conclusion

C-arm CT scanning combined with a simple laser device technology can accurately locate the position of the hematoma, effectively avoid important structures and vessels, reduce damage to surrounding normal brain tissue, and maximize the protection of normal brain tissue function. Real-time navigation and dynamic adjustments during surgery allow immediate access to imaging data postoperatively. It also has the advantages of being minimally invasive, highly precise, easy to operate, and short operation time, demonstrating high practicality and feasibility.
Study of age-related changes in plasma metabolites and enzyme activity of healthy small dogs that underwent medical checkups
Authors: Kusaba Akio , Tago Erika , Kusaba Haruna , Kawasumi Koh
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In Japan, the importance of medical checkups for pet dogs is increasing. In this study, we retrospectively explored the effects of age on plasma biomarkers in healthy small dogs that underwent medical checkups.

Methods

Based on the modified American Animal Hospital Association Canine Life Stage Guidelines, 52 healthy small dogs were divided into 3 groups according to their life stage: young adult (1–4 years old), mature adult (5–11 years old), senior (12–15 years old). None of the dogs were obese. Plasma was collected from animals that underwent medical checkups at Muromi Animal Hospital (Fukuoka, Japan). Plasma glucose, triglyceride (TG), total protein, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, total cholesterol, and albumin concentrations; alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities; c-reactive protein (CRP), non-esterified fatty acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), serum amyloid A (SAA), insulin, and adiponectin (ADN) concentrations; glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities; and M/L ratio (MDH/LDH) were examined. Changes in the abovementioned plasma biomarker levels were compared between canines in different life stages.

Results

Plasma ADN concentrations and GPx, SOD, and MDH activities significantly decreased with age, whereas plasma ALP, BUN, TG, and MDA concentrations gradually increased. Plasma SAA levels measured by the latex agglutination method in 51 of the 52 small dogs that underwent medical checkups were below the detection limit.

Conclusion

Plasma ADN concentrations, GPx, SOD activity, and BUN levels may be important biomarkers for clarifying the effect of age in healthy dogs that undergo medical checkups. However, plasma SAA values obtained by the latex agglutination method were not considered an age-related inflammation marker for healthy dogs.
Study of the Impact of Acquisition Parameters on Fault Feature Identification Based on Magnetotelluric Modeling
Authors: Zhang Hui , Nie Fajian
Published: October 2024

The electromagnetic method is widely used in mineral exploration, geothermal resource exploration, and deep earth structure detection. To improve the resolution and positioning accuracy of magnetotelluric surveys for targets beneath cover, it is essential to utilize forward modeling. This approach allows for a better understanding of the capabilities and limitations of MT in resolving features of different scales. In this paper, we employ forward modeling using the finite element method to simulate a series of continuous fault zones ranging from 100 m to 400 m in width, with varying lengths and dips. These fault zones represent conductive fluid pathways that could be associated with different scales and depths. The forward modeling provides the necessary data and method testing to assess the effectiveness of MT surveys in identifying and resolving such features. Our findings demonstrate that a station spacing of 400 m is optimal for resolving fault zones of various widths. For narrower faults (approximately 100 m), extending the survey line to 12 km or more significantly improves the deep structural inversion of the bounding faults, while an 8 km survey line suffices for wider faults (400 m). However, the vertical extent of these features is less well constrained, with deeper faults appearing broader and inversion depths being notably shallower than actual depths. These results highlight the need for careful interpretation of inversion anomalies, especially when supplementary data from other geophysical methods are lacking. Misinterpretation can lead to inaccurate resource assessments and exploration potential.
Research on the Properties of Nano-Al2O3- and Nano-SiO2-Modified Bio-Asphalt and Mixtures
Authors: Qiao Wei , Yuan Feilong , Xu Xiaojian , Wang Qingzhou
Published: October 2024

Bio-oil as a substitute or modifier for petroleum asphalt has significant environmental, economic, and sustainable development implications. However, the insufficient high-temperature and anti-aging characteristics of bio-asphalt lead to the limited application of bio-oil in road engineering. In this study, the characteristics of bio-asphalt were reinforced by nano-Al2O3 and nano-SiO2. The nanomaterial-modified bio-asphalt was evaluated using basic characteristics, viscosity, and high- and low-temperature rheological characteristic tests. Meanwhile, the road behavior of nanomaterial-modified bio-asphalt mixtures was assessed. The test results demonstrated that incorporating bio-oil improved the low-temperature performance of PA. Compared with PA, BA’s ductility was increased by 83.87%. Nano-Al2O3 and nano-SiO2 positively affected the bio-asphalt’s temperature sensitivity and high-temperature and anti-aging characteristics but inhibited the low-temperature characteristics. Combining the results of the high- and low-temperature characteristics of nanomaterial-modified bio-asphalt, a nano-Al2O3 dosage between 4 and 6% or a nano-SiO2 dosage between 6 and 8% can realize the enhancement of high-temperature and anti-aging characteristics of bio-asphalt, and the low-temperature characteristics are better than those of petroleum asphalt. Meanwhile, the dynamic stability, crack resistance, and water loss resistance of the nanomaterial-modified bio-asphalt mixtures meet the specification requirements. The adjustable and designable high- and low-temperature characteristics of bio-asphalt can be realized by adjusting the dosage of nanomaterials. The application of bio-oil and nanomaterials promotes the resourceful utilization of waste and provides new possibilities for road engineering materials.
Method for Calculating Heat Transfer in a Heat Accumulator Using a Phase Change Material with Intensification Due to Longitudinal Fins
Authors: Lebedev Vladimir , Deev Andrey , Deev Konstantin
Published: October 2024

One of the challenges in energy supply for isolated power systems is maintaining a steady balance between generated and consumed energy. The application of energy storage systems and flexible energy sources is the most preferable approach for these systems. Small- and medium-sized nuclear power plants are promising, carbon-free options for energy supply to isolated power systems. However, these plants have low maneuverability. To solve this problem, this article discusses the use of a thermal accumulator using a phase change material (solar salt) to heat feedwater. Tubes with longitudinal fins are used to intensify heat transfer in the storage system. This paper presents a method for calculating heat transfer along the entire heat exchange surface of such an accumulator. A series of 2D simulations were conducted to study the solidification process of solar salt around a heat exchange tube at various temperatures on the inner wall surface. The regression dependences of heat transfer on the temperature of the inner surface of the wall and the thickness of the solid PCM layer were determined. Using the presented method and the obtained regression dependencies, we determined the time graphs of the temperature change in the heat transfer fluid at the outlet of the accumulator during discharge. Based on the results presented, it was found that an accumulator with 72.7 tons of solar salt (dimensions: 6 × 3.71 × 2.15 m) can replace a high-pressure heater №1 at a low-power nuclear power plant (50 MW) during 3450 s.
Scale-Dependent Effects of Urban Canopy Cover, Canopy Volume, and Impervious Surfaces on Near-Surface Air Temperature in a Mid-Sized City
Authors: Ralls Carson , Polyakov Anne Y. , Shandas Vivek
Published: October 2024

Cities are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural environments. Known as the ‘urban heat island effect’, it can affect the health of urban residents and lead to increased energy use, public health impacts, and damage to infrastructure. Although this effect is extensively researched, less is known about how landscape characteristics within cities affect local temperature variation. This study examined how tree canopy cover, canopy volume, and impervious surface cover affect daytime near-surface air temperature, and how these effects vary between different scales of analysis (10, 30, 60, 90 m radii), ranging from approximate street corridor to city block size. Temperature data were obtained from a car-mounted sensor, with traverse data points recorded during morning, afternoon, and evening times, plotted throughout the city of Portland, OR. The variability in near-surface air temperature was over 10° F during each traverse period. The results indicate that near-surface air temperature increased linearly with impervious surface cover and decreased linearly with tree canopy cover, with canopy volume reducing the temperature by 1° F for every 500 cubic feet of canopy volume for evening temperatures. The magnitude of the effect of tree canopy increased with spatial scale, with 60 and 90 m scales having the greatest measurable effect. Canopy volume had a positive relationship on presumed nighttime and early-morning temperatures at 60 and 90 m scales, potentially due to the impacts of wind fluctuation and air roughness. Canopy cover still contributed the largest overall decrease in street-scale temperatures. Increasing tree canopy cover and volume effectively explained the lower daytime and evening temperatures, while reducing impervious surface cover remains critical for reducing morning and presumed nighttime urban heat. The results may inform strategies for urban foresters and planners in managing urban land cover and tree planting patterns to build increased resiliency towards moderating urban temperature under warming climate conditions.
The Future of Knowledge, and the Fate of Wisdom, in the Age of Information
Authors: Strate Lance
Published: October 2024

John Henry Newman defined the university as “a place of teaching universal knowledge”, which suggests that it is also an environment for the teaching and creation of knowledge, and therefore a medium for the teaching and creation of knowledge. Based on the field of media ecology, defined by Neil Postman as “the study of media as environments”, and following Marshall McLuhan’s famous maxim that, “the medium is the message”, we can understand knowledge to be the product of a particular type of medium or environment. Taking inspiration from the poetic questions posed by T.S. Eliot, “Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?”, this essay takes issue with the view expressed among internet boosters that information is the basis of knowledge, and knowledge is the basis of wisdom. Instead, an alternative understanding presented in which information as a contemporary phenomenon is a product of the electronic media environment, knowledge is a product of the literacy associated with the chirographic and typographic media environments, and wisdom is a product of the oral media environment.
Biomechanical Analysis of Injury Risk in Two High-Altitude Landing Positions Using Xsens Inertial Units and EMG Sensors
Authors: Yao Xuewu , Li Haojie , Xiu Chen
Published: October 2024

High-altitude landing maneuvers can pose a significant injury risk, particularly when performed with different landing techniques. This study aims to compare the biomechanical parameters and injury risks associated with two landing positions—staggered foot landing and simultaneous bilateral landing—using Xsens inertial units and electromyography (EMG) sensors. A total of 26 university students (13 males, 13 females) participated in this study. Kinematic data were collected using inertial measurement units (IMUs), muscle activity was recorded with EMG, and ground reaction forces were captured using 3D force plates. The data were processed and analyzed using the AnyBody modeling system to simulate joint forces, moments, and muscle activation. This study found that simultaneous bilateral landing exhibited greater hip flexion-extension, knee flexion-extension, and ankle inversion. Vertical joint forces were also significantly higher in the hip, knee, and ankle during simultaneous bilateral landing. Staggered foot landing showed higher muscle forces in the gluteus maximus, iliopsoas, and quadriceps femoris (p < 0.001). The EMG analysis revealed significant differences in the biceps femoris (p = 0.008) and quadriceps femoris (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that simultaneous bilateral landing increases joint load, while staggered foot landing increases muscle activation, which may lead to different injury risks between the two techniques.
Decoration of Pt–Ni Alloy on Molten Salt Etched Halloysite Nanotubes for Enhanced Catalytic Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol
Authors: Duan Jingmin , Zhao Yafei , Zhai Zhuhe , Chen Shengqiang , Zhang Bing
Published: October 2024

Efficient and low-cost nanocatalysts are extremely desirable for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). A smaller nanocatalyst particle size and stronger support effect can significantly enhance the catalytic performance. Naturally occurring halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are promising alternative supports for fine metal nanoparticles, but the smooth surface and single type of functional groups on HNTs are usually unfavorable for the anchoring of metal ions. Herein, we modified HNTs using a mild and controllable molten salt etching method to create a rough surface (rHNTs), followed by loading Pt–Ni alloys to prepare Pt–Ni/rHNTs for the catalytic reduction of 4-NP. The results demonstrate that ultrafine Pt–Ni alloy nanoparticles with a diameter of 1.60 nm are uniformly dispersed on the rough surface of rHNTs. The particle size and catalytic performance can be tuned by adjusting the loading amount of Pt–Ni. The optimized Pt–Ni/rHNT (1 wt %) nanocatalyst reveals the smallest Pt–Ni particle size and the highest catalytic rate of 0.1953 min−1, which exceeds many Pt–Ni-based catalysts in previous reports. This work offers an ingenious idea for the mild surface modification of HNTs and a brilliant perspective for the rational design of inexpensive 4-NP reduction nanocatalysts.