bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanocomposite hydrogel based on Sodium Alginate and MnO 2 : A Simple Strategy for Catalytic Degradation of Organic Dye
Authors: Rahimi Fatemeh , Ghasemzadeh Hossein 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In the present work, degradation of crystal violet (CV) was studied using a heterogeneous Fenton-like system in aqueous solution A mesoporous nanocomposite hydrogel was synthesized based on sodium alginate biopolymer and AMPS/AAm monomers through radical polymerization followed by incorporation of manganese oxide nanoparticles within the hydrogel. The structure, and morphology of the nanocomposite hydrogel (MnO2/NCH) were analyzed using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis, (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Zeta Potential, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The effect of different parameters such as initial pH of solution, amount of the loaded metal ion, time, temperature, dose of H2O2, dose of catalyst, and dye concentration on dye removal was studied. The degradation ratio in optimal conditions was over 98% in a relatively short time (20 min). The high reusability was obtained for the catalyst in consecutive cycles. The degradation studies indicate that the catalytic reaction follows the pseudo zero-order kinetic model.
Grid-based Analysis of Three-Dimensional Choroidal Sattler's and Haller's Layer Vascularity Volume Index and its Relation to Age and Axial Length in Adults by Ultra-Widefield Swept-source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Qu Yuyao , Ma Jixian , Di Rong , Bian Yue , Li Yuchen , Zhang Hanze , Qin Yazhou , Liu Qiuping , Lei Jianqin , Li Jingming 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background. This study was to evaluate the features of choroidal Sattler’s and Haller’s layer (CSHL) vessels in adults and explore its relationship with factors such as age, axial length (AL) and body mass index (BMI) by using ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (ultra-widefield SS-OCTA).
Methods. 24mm×20mm fovea centered rectangular SS-OCTA scans were acquired. Theywere divided into 9 identical grids, with each equal size of 8mm×6.7mm. OCTA artifacts were evaluated.Three-dimensional choroidal vascularity volume index (CVI) and choroidal vascular volume per unit area (CVV/a or CVV) of CSHL were calculated. The correlations of CVI and CVV with age, AL, and BMI were analyzed.
Results. Artifacts account for 19.30%, 18.60%, 30.23% of three inferior grids, respectively. CVI and CVV of left eyes were 30.82 ± 0.28% and 76.76 ± 2.19μm, respectively. Similary, CVI and CVV of right eyes were 31.16 ± 0.34% and 80.49 ± 3.10μm. Strong relationships of CVI (0.877, P=0.000) and CVV (0.866, P=0.000) were found between the two eyes in the same individual. The covariance of CVI is lower than that of CVV. Higher CVI was associated with younger age and shorter AL. Neither CVI nor CVV has association with BMI.
Conclusions.CVI can be a more stable parameter for describing choroidal medium and large-sized vessels compared to CVV. Aging and longer AL were associated with attenuated CSHL’s vascularity. Taken together, these findings may provide helpful and referential CSHL vascular parameters for retinal specialists to reveal risk factors of choroidal diseases.
Dynamic analysis of a novel 3D chaotic map with two internal frequencies
Authors: Wang Pei , Wang Qiao , Sang Haiwei , Li Kunshuai , Yu Xiong , Xiong WeiCheng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Trigonometric functions serving as boundary functions are excellent nonlinear elements in designing chaotic maps. However, research on the dynamical behaviors dependent on the internal frequency within these boundary functions is not yet sufficient. Hence, in this paper, a novel chaotic map is proposed. Numerical simulations reveal the unique dynamical behaviors dependent on its dominant and recessive internal frequencies, including the control of the map's Lyapunov exponents and their impact on the overall system performance. this unique phenomenon has not been reported before. The system's initial-boosting behavior is then captured, further revealing its super-extreme multistability. This map is implemented on STM32 platform, demonstrating its practical applicability for potential practical application scenarios. Ultimately, The map is applied in designing a pseudo-random number generator, and its high randomness is validated through NIST SP800-22 test.
Synthetic in-plane magnetic fields in topological plasmonic insulator with detachable identical meta-atoms
Authors: You Jian Wei , Huang Siqi , Chen Long , Lan Zhihao , Yin Qing Chun , Qin Shi Long , Cui Tie Jun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Synthetic magnetic fields of photons allow to emulate the behavior of electrons in real magnetic fields in photonic systems, providing unprecedented opportunity to explore novel optical phenomena and practical applications. Here, we propose a method for generating an in-plane pseudo-magnetic field by linearly modulating the rotation angle of identical meta-atoms. This approach induces the chiral zeroth Landau level, which is a one-way propagation bulk state with topological protection. Due to the detachable and rotatable characteristics of meta-atoms, we achieve robust propagation of the chiral bulk state and design a flexible Dirac waveguide through manipulating the rotation angle of the meta-atoms. Experimental tests are conducted to verify the transmission characteristics of the Dirac waveguide and chiral zeroth Landau modes. Our system offers a new pathway for realizing the chiral Landau levels in optical metasurfaces with identical meta-atoms and enables the control of a pseudo-magnetic field. Without breaking the time-reversal symmetry with real magnetic fields, our proposed structure has potential for designing integrated photonic devices and may enable further exploration of intriguing physical phenomena through flexible control of the synthetic magnetic field.
Association of Glycated Hemoglobin with Coagulation and Biochemical Profiles in Type II Diabetes Patients – a Case Control Study
Authors: Mensah Benjamin Tetteh , Armah Dorinda Naa Okailey , Narh Isaac Lartey , Annison Lawrence , Antwi-Baffour Samuel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Persistent hyperglycaemia in diabetes can lead to abnormal blood clotting due to the glycation of haemoglobin and other clotting proteins. Shortened activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), altered levels of other clotting factors, and biochemical markers may indicate a higher risk of blood clot formation, which can contribute to vascular diseases and impact kidney function.
Methods
This study examined 150 diabetic patients (cases) and 150 healthy participants (controls) to analyse how their clotting and biochemical profiles were affected by glycemic control. Data on participants' demographics, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle were collected. Blood samples were analysed using automated coagulation and chemistry analysers.
Results
The coagulation tests revealed that patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially those with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 6.5), had significantly shorter APTT and PT, along with lower international normalized ratio (INR), raised D-dimer levels, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to healthy controls and the differences were statistically significant. However, although fibrinogen levels, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), and renal function markers were higher in the T2DM patients than in the controls, these differences were not statistically significant.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that individuals with T2DM particularly when poorly controlled may be more susceptible to thrombus formation due to increased activation of prothrombotic coagulation factors.
Ultrabroadband THz Conductivity of Gated Graphene In- and Out-of-equilibrium
Authors: Coslovich Giacomo , Smith Ryan , Shi Sufei , Buss Jan Heye , Robinson Jeremy , Wang Feng , Kaindl Robert 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We employ ultrabroadband terahertz (THz) spectroscopy to expose the high-frequency transport properties of Dirac fermions in monolayer graphene. By controlling the carrier concentration via tunable electrical gating, both equilibrium and transient optical conductivities are obtained for a range of Fermi levels.The frequency-dependent equilibrium response is determined through a combination of time-domain THz and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy for energies up to the near-infrared, which also provides a measure of the gate-voltage dependent Fermi level. Transient changes in the real and imaginary parts of the graphene conductivity are electro-optically resolved for frequencies up to 15 THz after near-infrared femtosecond excitation, both at the charge-neutral point and for higher electrostatic-doping levels. Modeling of the THz response provides insight into changes of the carrier spectral weights and scattering rates, and reveals an additional broad-frequency (~8 THz) component to the photo-induced response, which we attribute to the zero-momentum mode of quantum-critical transport observed here in large-area CVD graphene.
Clinical Features And Imaging Findings of Early Lacrimal Sac Neoplasms
Authors: Yu Jian , Bi Yinwen , Cai Rongrong , Gan Lu , Qian Jiang , Ren Hui 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
To examine the clinical features and imaging findings of early-stage lacrimal sac neoplasms.
Methods
In this retrospective study, patients presenting with epiphora were diagnosed with either lacrimal sac neoplasms or mucoceles. Diagnostic assessments included computed tomography (CT), enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and pathological analysis.
Results
The study comprised nine patients (2 male; 7 female) with lacrimal sac neoplasms, 44% of whom had malignancies while 56% exhibited benign conditions. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean width of the nasolacrimal canal between patients with neoplasms (6.49 ± 3.68 mm) and mucoceles (5.50 ± 1.88 mm, P = 0.44). However, the depth of the nasolacrimal canal was significantly greater in the neoplasm group (5.08 ± 3.21 mm) compared to the mucocele group (2.85 ± 0.96 mm, P = 0.05). Notably, lacrimal sac mass extended above the medial canthal tendon in eight neoplasm patients, unlike any in the mucocele group, demonstrating distinct pathological presentations. Additionally, the diseased eyes in the neoplasm group showed significantly greater nasolacrimal canal width (6.49 mm) compared to the contralateral eyes (3.01 mm, P = 0.01) and a slightly deeper depth (5.08 mm vs. 2.66 mm, P = 0.04).
Conclusions
Findings suggest that a lacrimal sac mass extending above the medial canthal tendon warrants a CT scan. Patients with a nasolacrimal canal wider than the contralateral side should undergo enhanced MRI for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Trend in Hospital Admissions for Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) before and during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic: A Retrospective analysis from a Sub-urban area in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Konfo Gaetan Kwasseu , Nkoke Clovis , Kuaguim Kenfack , Dzudie Anastase 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic was a global public concern and constitute a future threat to the world population due to its indirect effect on the burden of non-communicable diseases. The pandemic manifested disruptions in health care delivery and access. However, there is limited data in Sub-Saharan Africa on the impact of the COVID-19 on cardiovascular disease (CVD) admissions and outcomes.
Objectives
To compare the trends of CVD admissions and outcome before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Southwest Region of Cameroon.
Methods
We carried out a retrospective study of patients suffering from CVDs admitted from March 11 2018 to March 11 2020 (Pre-COVID-19 pandemic period) and from March 11 2020 to March 11 2022 (COVID-19 pandemic period). A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
There were 483 admissions due to CVDs during the COVID-19 pandemic period and 518 during the pre-COVID-19 period. There was no significant difference in mean age before (57.97 ± 15.6 years) and during the pandemic (59.74 ± 16.1years) (P = 0.44).There was also no significant change in the proportion of males and females during and before the pandemic: males (21, 4% and 24.8%), and females (26.8% and 27%), (P = 0.28). There was a downward secular trend with random variation of the number of CVDs admissions during the COVID-19 period when compared with the corresponding pre-COVID period which had an upward trend. Rates of admissions of Acute Myocardial infarction decreased the most (22.2%), and pericardial disease increased the most (14.3%) during the first wave of the pandemic. The in-hospital mortality increased by 2.4% and there was no change in median length of hospital stay (p = 0.936).
Conclusion
This study provides evidence of a decreasing tendency in admissions due to CVDs during COVID-19 Pandemic at the BRH, and its effects varied among the different types of CVDs. The in-hospital mortality of CVDs increased during the pandemic.
Residual Nitrite and Nitrate in Processed Meats and Meat Analogues in the United States: Composition, Processing, Geographical Influence Factors
Authors: Sheng Siyuan , Silva Erin M. , Tarté Rodrigo , Claus James R. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Residual nitrite (NO2−) and nitrate (NO3−) have been widely studied in the past few decades for their function to improve processed meat quality and their impact on human health 1–4. In this study we examined how the residual NOx− content of major classes of processed meats products (n = 1132) produced locally from three regions (East Coast, Midwest and West Coast) and plant protein-based meat analogues (n = 53) available at retail in the United States was influenced by their composition, processing, and geographical attributes. We also conducted time-dependent depletion studies and observed different patterns of NOx− depletion and conversion during processing and storage and correlated them with product quality. Together, our results reveal a comprehensive prospective of NOx− content in processed meats and meat analogues. The NO2− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged (± standard error; minimum and maximum value in parentheses) 13.7 ± 0.62 (0.0-214.5) and 1.7 ± 0.34 (0.0–11.0), respectively, and the NO3− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged 32.6 ± 0.90 (2.0–205.9) and 7.2 ± 0.56 (4.0-25.3) ppm, respectively.
Association between antibiotic use and risk of kidney cancer: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Park Young Jun , Park Sun Jae , Hong Jaeyi , Choi Seulggie , Jeong Seogsong , Chang Jooyoung , Son Joung Sik , Kim Ji Soo , Cho Yoosun , Kim Sugyeong , Oh Yun Hwan , Park Sang Min 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Although several meta-analyses and systematic reviews have described the association between antibiotic use and total cancer incidence, few studies have investigated the association between antibiotic prescription practices and kidney cancer in Asia. This study sought to investigate whether antibiotic prescriptions are associated with a higher incidence of kidney cancer in a nationwide cohort comprising more than 10 million people.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included National Health Insurance Service data collected from 2006 to 2019. A total of 10,306,204 Korean patients aged 40 years or older were included. The primary outcome was kidney cancer diagnosis, which was confirmed using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision. Newly diagnosed kidney cancer cases from 2011 to 2019 were recorded, and adjusted hazard ratios were measured according to cumulative days of prescribed antibiotics and the number of antibiotic classes prescribed from 2006 to 2010. P values were derived to assess trends and possible duration-dependent relationships.
Results
Regarding cumulative antibiotic prescription days, compared with the antibiotic non-use group, individuals who had been prescribed antibiotics for ≥ 365 days cumulatively had a higher risk of kidney cancer in a fully adjusted model. Individuals who had been prescribed five or more antibiotic classes had a greater risk of kidney cancer.
Conclusions
The identified duration-dependent association between antibiotic prescription practices and kidney cancer incidence suggests that antibiotics should be judiciously prescribed. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
Association between lactate dehydrogenase to Albumin ratio at admission and all cause mortality in ICU patients with acute myocardial infarction: A retrospective analysis from the MIMIC database
Authors: Li Xiaowan , Guo Panxu , Su Xuan , Xie Danying , Su Wanmin , Wang Peixi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The relationship between the lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio (LAR) and all-cause mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction is unknown. This study aimed to explore this relationship.
Methods
The MIMIC-IV database was used in this study. The primary outcome indicator was 30-day all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was 180-day all-cause mortality. All patients were categorized into 3 groups based on LAR-level tertiles. The Cox proportional risk regression model and the restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to assess the relationship between LAR level and outcome. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare the cumulative survival rates of the groups. ROC curve analysis was used to assess the clinical predictive value of LAR. In addition, subgroup analyses were performed to examine the impact of other influencing factors on outcomes.
Results
A total of 1041 AMI patients with a mean age of 70.0 (60.0, 79.0) were included in this study, and their 30- and 180-day mortality rates were 26.5% and 36.5%, respectively. In Cox proportional risk regression analyses fully adjusted for confounders, the level of LAR in patients with AMI was an independent predictor of 30- and 180-day mortality. RCS analyses revealed a nonlinear relationship between LAR and outcome events. In addition, Kaplan-Meier curves (log-rank P < 0.001) suggested that cumulative ICU survival was significantly lower in AMI patients in the high LAR group compared with the low LAR group. LAR (AUC = 0.689) was more effective in predicting 30-day all-cause mortality in AMI patients than LDH alone (AUC = 0.665) or ALB (AUC = 0.646). Subgroup analysis showed a significant correlation between LAR and all-cause mortality in different subgroups.
Conclusions
LAR levels were significantly associated with all-cause mortality in patients with AMI in the ICU. LAR levels can be a valid indicator for grading and treating patients with AMI in the ICU.
6-cyanodopamine as an Endogenous Modulator of Heart Chronotropism and Inotropism
Authors: Britto-Júnior José , Lima Antonio Tiago , Oliveira Denis Lima , Mariano Fernanda V , de Souza Valéria B , Schenka André A , Peterson Larryn W. , Slot Maria Skovbjerg , Fjord Rebecca , Wang Tobias , Antunes Edson , De Nucci Gilberto 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose- Rat isolated atria and ventricles releases endothelium-derived 6-nitrodopamine and this novel catecholamine induces a potent endogenous positive chronotropic and inotropic response. 6-Cyanodopamine is released from rabbit isolated atria and ventricles, however it is not known whether this novel catecholamine has any action on the isolated heart. Therefore, it was investigated whether rat isolated atria and ventricles release 6-cyanodopamine and its action on the rat isolated heart.
Methods- Basal release of 6-cyanodopamine was assessed by LC-MS/MS and tyrosine hydroxylase by both immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Chronotropic and inotropic effects were evaluated in isolated atria and Langendorff’s preparation, respectively.
Results- Rat isolated ventricles presented basal release of 6-cyanodopamine, which was unaffected by pre-treatment with tetrodotoxin. Immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization identified tyrosine hydroxylase expression in both the endothelium and in the cardiomyocytes. 6-Cyanodopamine at 10 and 100 pM induced increases in the atrial rate, which were maintained even at 30min after the preparation was washed. In the Langendorff’s preparation, 1min infusion of 6-cyanodopamine (10 and 100pM) significantly increased heart frequency, LVDP, and dP/dt(max). Bolus injection of noradrenaline (1pmol) had no effect on heart frequency, LVDP and dPdt(max). Infusion of 6-cyanodopamine (0.01pM) significantly increased heart frequency, LVDP, and dP/dt(max) when noradrenaline (1pmol) was injected at the end of the infusion.
Conclusion- The results indicate that 6-cyanodopamine is a potent endogenous mediator of both chronotropism and inotropism in the rat isolated heart. It has potential therapeutic effect in heart failure and may be useful as a biomarker of pathophysiological processes.
A retrospective cohort study of the oral healthcare needs of cancer patients
Authors: Beaumont Sophie , Liu Aimee , Hull Katrusha 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Oral health and its impact on general well-being is acutely evident with a cancer diagnosis. Most cancer treatments will affect the oral environment, with poor oral health having the potential to negatively impact cancer treatment outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective study included 1500 patients referred for dental examination prior to cancer therapy at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Australia, between January 2017 and August 2019. Demographic characteristics, cancer diagnosis, and baseline oral health information were recorded.
Results
Patients were referred from the head and neck tumour stream (56%), haematology (27.7%), breast and genitourinary (6.1%) and others (9.7%). Of the patients who required dental treatment 49% required a dental extraction prior to their cancer treatment to optimise oral health. Head and neck cancer patients presented with poorer oral hygiene and required more dental extractions than other patient groups (χ² = 17.59, p = 0.00003).
Conclusions
Baseline oral health for cancer patients was below expected compared with the Australian average. Dental treatment was necessary for more than half of patients to reduce infection risk and improve function and quality of life during and following cancer treatment, highlighting the essential role of oral health clinicians in the multidisciplinary team.