bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional assessment of Zinc oxide nanoparticle and Moringa oleifera supplementation on the male reproductive system of a diabetic rat model
Authors: Shaukat Arslan , Rasool Umair , Saeed Farhan , Shah Yasir Abbas , Afzaal Muhammad 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The probable synergistic effect of chemically synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles and locally securedMoringa olieferawas assessed on diabetic rats’ model along with a potential effect on the male reproductive system and rat male serological markers. The plantMoringa olieferawas procured from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) step solvothermal method was utilized to synthesize the zinc oxide nanoparticles. The zeta sizer, UV-vis, and spectroscopic analysis of ZnO nanoparticles were undertaken. A total of fifty healthy male albino Wistar rats weighing 250 ± 10 g were used in the experimental research study having been divided into six stops designated as negative control (NC), positive control (PC), standard control (Std. C), ZnO na nanoparticle group (ZnO),Moringa oliefera. Group (MO) and a group of combinations thereof (ZnONP + MO). The mean body weight was observed to be significantly normalized in the group ZnONP + MO i.e., 230 ± 6 grams in contrast to PC i.e., 162grams ± 4; P ≤ 0.05. The ZnONP + MO combination had a normoglycemic effect i.e., 154.4 ± 4.5 mg/dl as in opposition to the positive control, i.e., 315.7 ± 3 mg/dl. The serum level of rat testosterone in the ZnONP + MO group was observed at 0 .958 ± .08ng/ml in opposition to post-itive control, which revealed it at 0.442 ± .02 ng/ml). The follicle-stimulating hormone level in the ZnONP + MO group was recorded at 10.04 ± .04 mlU/ml significantly varied from the PC, whose level was noted at 5.08 ± .09 mlU/ml. The level of LH in the ZnONP + MO group was observed at 6.89 ± .08 mIU/ml, significantly different from PC at 3.78 ± .08 mIU/ml. Histopathological changes in the rat testes treated with alloxan alone revealed the distortion in the epithelium of seminiferous tubules (H&E stain). However, the histopathology of testes isolated from rats treated with the zinc oxide nanoparticle andMoringa olieferacombination showed almost normal spermatogenic activity, the lumen of seminiferous tubules contained sperms, normal spermatids, outer epithelium layer of seminiferous tubules was intact.
Diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic glucagonoma presenting with multiple metastases and recurring postoperatively: Report of two patients
Authors: Yu Shenghui , Ge Muxi , Zhang Cheng , Chen Lang , Zhao Lei 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background: Pancreatic glucagonoma is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm with malignant potential. Its etiology is unclear, and its course is protracted, often fraught by recurrences and greatly diminished quality of life.
Case presentation: Herein, we report two patients with such tumors, one a 60-year-old woman hospitalized for blood glucose elevation and recurrent necrolytic migratory erythema (NME) of the trunk and limbs. Imaging studies showed an area (~3 cm) of reduced enhancement at head of pancreas. Examination of the subsequent pancreaticoduodenectomy specimen confirmed a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (G2). The patient’s blood glucose normalized postoperatively, and her skin erythema cleared. During follow-up, however, intramuscular injections (30 mg) of long-acting release (LAR) octreotide acetate microspheres were required at 28-day intervals for recurrent NME; and there was apparent hepatic and retroperitoneal nodal involvement after 36 months.
The second patient was a 32-year-old woman hospitalized for recurrent glossitis, perioral dermatitis, and NME of both lower limbs. Imaging studies revealed a low-density nodule (~2 cm) in tail of pancreas, as well as multiple space-occupying lesions of liver. Distal pancreatectomy was undertaken, with splenectomy and palliative resection of hepatic nodules, confirmingmetastasis of a primary pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (G2) to liver.The NME resolved postoperatively, but this patient also received intramuscular octreotide LAR injections (30 mg) at 28-day intervals. After 6 months, percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of residual liver lesions took place.
Conclusions: The present accounts detail our diagnostic and therapeutic experiences with this rare type of tumor, especially the management of multiple metastases upfront and postoperative recurrences.
Recent Changes in Temperature Extremes and Heat Stress over Eastern India
Authors: Akhter Javed , Biswas Riddhima , Das Lalu , Midya Subrata Kumar 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The rise of extreme heat events and increase in heat stress under changing climate has been a major concern in recent periods. The present study has been undertaken to analyze temperature extremes and heat stress patterns over Eastern India from the period 1981–2020 for April, May, and June (AMJ). Six indices namely Monthly maximum value of daily maximum temperature (TXx), Monthly maximum value of daily minimum temperature (TNx), Monthly minimum value of daily maximum temperature (TXn), Monthly minimum value of daily minimum temperature (TNn), Percentage of days when maximum temperature > 90th percentile (TX90p) and minimum temperature > 90th percentile (TN90p) has been utilized to assess changes in temperatures extremes. Furthermore, three heat stress indices (HSIs) namely, Humidex, Simplified Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature, and Apparent Temperature have been used to estimate and categorize heat stress levels. Mixed results with both increasing and decreasing trends over different parts during three months have been observed in the case of TXx, TXn, TNx, and TNn. During AMJ, there has been amplification in the frequency of TX90p over coastal regions of West Bengal and Odisha season in the latest decades. Increasing TN90p frequency has been found over Sikkim, Bihar, and North Bengal while it has decreased over Chhattisgarh and Odisha. The frequency of strong heat stress has intensified over Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar during recent decades. Spatial coverage of strong stress has also gradually extended and the area under no stress has decreased during AMJ season.
Healthcare Needs of Migrant Female Head Porters in Ghana: evidence from the Greater Accra and Greater Kumasi Metropolitan areas
Authors: Opuni Rhanda Kyerewaa , Adei Dina , Mensah Anthony Acquah , Adamtey Ronald , Agyemang-Duah Williams 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
In low-and middle-income countries, migrants are confronted with several healthcare needs which affects the promotion of well-being and healthy lives. However, not much is known about the healthcare needs of migrant female head porters (Kayayei) in Ghana. This study assesses the healthcare needs of migrant female head porters in Greater Kumasi Metropolitan Area (GKMA) and Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA).
Methods
The study adopted a convergent mixed methods design where both qualitative and quantitative data were used. A random sample size of 470 migrant female head porters was used for the study.
Results
The study revealed that ante-natal care, post-natal care, treatment of malaria, treatment of diarrhoea diseases, mental health, sexual health, and cervical screening were healthcare needs of migrant female head porters. The findings show that participants from the GAMA significantly have greater cervical screening needs (71.6% vrs 67.1%, p = 0.001) compared to those from the GKMA. Kayeyei from the GKMA significantly have greater mental health needs than those from the GAMA (84.6% vrs 79.2%, p = 0.031). Also, Kayeyei from the GKMA significantly attend post-natal care compared to those from the GAMA (99.4% vrs 96.2%, p = 0.013).
Conclusion
The findings underscore differential healthcare needs across geographical localities. Based on the findings of the study, specific healthcare needs such as ante-natal care and post-natal care should be included in any health programmes and policies that aim at addressing healthcare needs of migrant female head porters in the two metropolitan areas of Ghana.
Associations of perinatal metals and metalloid exposures with early child behavioral development over time in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Bauer Julia Anglen , Romano Megan E. , Jackson Brian , Bellinger David , Korrick Susan , Karagas Margaret R. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Research on the neurodevelopmental effects of metal/metalloids has focused mainly on outcomes assessed at one time point, even though brain development progresses over time. We investigated biomarkers of perinatal exposure to metal/loids and changes in child behavior over time.
Methods
We followed 268 participants from the prospective New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study between birth and age five years. We measured arsenic (As), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) in toenails from 6-week-old infants. The Behavioral Symptoms Index (BSI), externalizing, and internalizing symptoms were assessed using the Behavior Assessment System for Children, 2nd edition (BASC-2) at ages 3 and 5 years. Multivariable linear regression was used to estimate associations of metal/loids with behavior change, calculated as the difference in symptom raw scores between 3 and 5 years, in addition to the associations for symptom scores at 3 and 5 years separately. Sex-specific associations were also explored using stratified models and a sex-metal interaction term.
Results
Adjusted associations of metal/loids and change in behavior varied by exposure and outcome. Each 1 µg/g increase in toenail Cu was associated with improved behavior between 3 and 5 years [BSI: β= -3.88 (95%CI: -7.12, -0.64); Externalizing problems: β = -2.20 (95%CI: -4.07, -0.33)]. Increasing Zn was associated with increased externalizing behavior over time (β = 3.42 (95%CI: 0.60, 6.25). Sex-stratified analyses suggested more pronounced associations among boys compared to girls.
Conclusions
Perinatal exposure to metal/loids may alter behavioral development between ages 3 and 5 years. Findings support the need for more research on associations between metal/loids and neurodevelopment over longer time periods.
Effect of food restriction on compensatory growth and enzymatic activity of freshwater prawn post larvae (M. rosenbergii), during its culture in Biofloc
Authors: Jesús Diana Pérez , Hernández-Vergara Martha Patricia , Pérez-Rostro Carlos Iván , Frías-Quintana Carlos Alfonso 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

During 75 days, the effect of food restriction/cyclic refeeding was evaluated on the survival, growth, and digestive enzymatic activity in hepatopancreas and intestine of post larvae (PL 20) of freshwater prawn cultured with/without biofloc. A completely randomized experimental design was used in triplicate: Three treatments were kept in clear water (C) and three with biofloc (B): C3/B3: 3 days’ restriction / refeeding; C6 / B6: 3 days’ restriction / 6 days’ feedback and their respective controls BC: control with biofloc; C: control with clear water; where the control groups received food daily. The parameters of water quality, the productive performance of the prawns, as well as proximal composition, and digestive enzyme activity in hepatopancreas and intestine were evaluated. The physicochemical variables in water were within the tolerance range for the PL´s. The survival was similar to the treatments and greater than 80%. The most efficient growth was obtained in BC, which was significantly higher than the others treatments, while the growth of the C prawns was similar to B3 and B6, which indicates that the biofloc covered the nutritional needs that allowed compensatory growth despite the temporary absence of commercial feed. Variations in enzymatic activities were observed in the hepatopancreas, where the highest enzymatic activity of the amylase, lipase, acid, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes occurred in the biofloc treatments, these enzymes being indicative of the nutrient absorption processes present in the biofloc during times of restriction of organisms, generating an adaptation advantage during times of food restriction, improving culture conditions.
Increased Visitation at Urban Water Sources by Bats and Raccoons: Implications for Cross-species Transmission of Rabies
Authors: Hastings Lias A. , Chambers Carol L. , Bergman David L. , Theimer Tad C. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
We examined the potential for urban water sources to act as centers for rabies transmission from bats to mesocarnivores in the arid southwestern United States where free water is often limited. Because residential housing can act as den and roost sites for both mesocarnivores and bats, we also examined the effect of housing density on abundance. Using ultrasonic acoustic recorders to assess bat activity and camera traps to estimate mesocarnivore abundance, we compared 14 pairs of wet and dry locations over two years by surveying twice during the summer, once prior to summer monsoons and once during the monsoon season, when surface waters were more available. Number of calls for all bat species combined were greater at wet sites compared to dry sites and calls of two bat species often associated with rabies, big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) and silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans), were recorded more at wet sites than dry sites in the monsoon season. In both years, raccoons (Procyon lotor) were photographed more often at wet sites while striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) were less likely to be detected at wet sites. Bat, fox and raccoon abundance was not associated with housing density while striped skunks showed a positive correlation with housing density. Higher abundance of bats at urban waters could increase potential for cross-species transmission of rabies from bats to mesocarnivores primarily for raccoons.
Lipid from electronic cigarette smoke both with and without nicotine induced pro- inflammatory macrophage polarization and disrupted phagocytosis
Authors: Rahman Mizanur , Sompa Shanzina Iasmin , Introna Micol , Upadhyay Swapna , Ganguly Koustav , Palmberg Lena 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Clinical cases and experimental evidence show that electronic cigarette (ECIG) induce serious adverse health effects but underlying mechanisms much remain to be uncovered. Based on recent exploratory evidence, investigating the effects of ECIG on macrophages can broadly define potential mechanisms by focusing on the effect of ECIG exposure with or without nicotine. Here we investigated the effect of ECIG-smoke exposure on macrophages (MQ) phenotype, inflammatory response, and function of macrophages. MQ were cultured at air liquid interface and exposed to ECIG smoke. Oxidative stress was determined by reactive oxygen species (ROS), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and heme oxygenase1 (HMOX1). Lipid accumulation was ensured by lipid staining and lipid peroxidation was measured by level of malondialdehyde (MDA). MQ polarization was identified by surface expression markers CD86, CD11C and CD206 as well as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in gene and protein level. Phagocytosis ofE. coliby MQ were investigated by fluorescence-based phagocytosis assay. ECIG smoke exposure in presence or absence of nicotine induced oxidative stress as ROS, HSP60, GPx, GPx4 and HMOX1 was upregulated in MQ. ECIG exposure induced accumulation lipids and the lipid peroxidation product MDA in MQ. Pro-inflammatory MQ (M1) markers CD86 and CD11C but not anti-inflammatory MQ (M2) marker CD206 were upregulated in response to ECIG exposure. In addition, ECIG induced pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta and IL-8 in gene level and IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1beta in protein level whereas ECIG exposure downregulated anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in protein level. Phagocytosis activity of MQ was downregulated by ECIG exposure. shRNA mediated lipid scavenger receptor CD36 silencing inhibited ECIG-induced pro-inflammatory MQ polarization and recovered phagocytic activity of MQ. ECIG exposure alter lung lipid homeostasis and thus induced inflammation by inducing M1 type MQ and impair phagocytic function, which could be a potential cause of ECIG-induced lung inflammation in healthy and inflammatory exacerbation in disease condition.
A model based on Kimura-Takemoto Classification: real-time endoscopic risk prediction for gastric cancer
Authors: Lan Yadi , Xu Qianqian , Zhao Qi , Shi Lei , Men Xiaoxiao , Zhai Tianyu , Han Bing , Sun Yujing , Liu Mingyue , Xu Hongwei 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background: The Kimura-Takemoto Classification (KTC) is widely used to assess the extent of gastric mucosal atrophy. Our study aimed to develop a real-time endoscopic gastric cancer(GC) risk predictive model based on KTC.
Methods: A total of 1825 patients who underwent endoscopy in Shandong Provincial Hospital were included from January 2020 to December 2021. The logistic regression was performed to select variables and the nomogram was constructed. The discrimination of the model was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the calibration was detected using the calibration curve and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, and the clinical utility was determined by decision curve analysis (DCA). Internal validation was performed with 1,000 bootstrap resamples.
Results: The model finally included age, sex, family history of GC and the KTC. The AUC exhibited well discrimination and displayed significantly better than KTC alone (AUC 0.781 vs 0.656, P<0.001). The calibration curve and Hosmer-Lemeshow test (P>0.05) showed favorable calibration of the model. The DCA showed good clinical applicability which was better than KTC alone. The population was finally classified into low risk (0-69), medium risk (70-99), and high risk (>100) according to the score of the nomogram. Compared to the low-risk population, those in medium (OR=5.10, 95% CI: 3.53-7.49, P<0.001) and high risk (OR=12.84, 95% CI: 8.39-19.85, P<0.001) had a significantly higher risk of GC.
Conclusions: The model based on KTC can effectively predict the risk of GC and perform real-time endoscopic GC risk stratification to guide biopsy and clinical management strategies.
Enterobius Vermicularis: A Cause or an Incidental Finding in Pediatric Appendicitis?
Authors: Kocaman Osman Hakan , Anadolulu Ali İhsan , Gerçel Gonca , Yol Cansu 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Purpose: The role of Enterobius Vermicularis (E. vermicularis) in the etiology of acute appendicitis is controversial. We aimed to investigate the incidence of E. vermicularis in appendectomy specimens and its contribution in the pathogenesis of appendicitis.
Methods: The files of patients who had E. vermicularis in appendectomy specimens between June 2016 and June 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. The samples of patients whose appendectomy specimens showed E. vermicularis were analyzed in 3 groups according to the results of histopathological evaluation, as reactive lymphoid hyperplasia, acute appendicitis, and perforated appendicitis.
Results: The files of 1334 patients were examined and E. vermicularis was found histopathologically in 24 (1.8%) of them. Fifteen of the patients were boys, 9 were girls, and the mean age was 11.17±2.91 (min: 7 years, max: 17 years). Histopathological examination of appendectomy specimens revealed reactive lymphoid hyperplasia in 15, acute appendicitis in 6, and perforated appendicitis in 3. Only neutrophil counts were significantly different in patients with reactive lymphoid hyperplasia and acute appendicitis (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The high rate of histopathologically reactive lymph nodes in appendectomy specimens with E. vermicularis suggests that this parasite was found incidentally in the appendix. Differentiating enterobiosis from true appendicitis may prevent unnecessary appendectomies.
Theoretical and in situ high speed measurement study on friction-induced vibration in water lubricated rubber bearing-shaft system
Authors: Kuang Fuming , Mu Haideng , Huang Jian , Wan Gao , Zhou Xincong 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Water-lubricated rubber stern bearing causes frictional vibration and noise under extreme conditions, severely threatening the survivability and concealment performance of underwater vehicles. To investigate the mechanism of friction-induced vibration and noise, a four-degree-of-freedom nonlinear dynamic model that includes vibration of bearing support, frictional vibration of bearing and torsional vibration of shaft is proposed. The velocity-dependent Stribeckfriction model describes the dynamic friction characteristics between the rubber bearing and stern shaft. The nonlinear system stability is studied through Lyapunov indirect method, and the transient dynamic responses are determined by Runge-Kutta method. Meanwhile, a high-speed in situ measurement experimental study is adopted to explore the mechanism of frictional and torsional vibrations in water-lubricated bearing-shaft system. Results show that nonlinear friction excitation is the fatal cause of friction-induced vibration in bearing-shaft system. Under different friction excitations, the coupling vibration forms between the bearing and the bearing support are different, resulting in two main modes of friction-induced vibration: “Chatter” and “Squeal”. The frictional vibration of the bearing and the torsional vibration of the stern shaft are tightly coupled. The trends and results may provide a theoretical basis for further research on frictional vibration and wear control in water-lubricated rubber bearing-shaft system.
Does a Longer Work Horizon Affect Offsprings' Labour Market Outcomes?
Authors: Chattopadhyay Debdeep 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This paper studies the effect of an increase in the work horizon of middle aged workers on the school-work transition of their offsprings aged 15-29 years. I exploit the variation in the parental work horizon induced by the 2012 Fornero reform in Italy that abruptly changed the age and years of social security contribution requirements for pension eligibility. Utilising a difference-in-difference strategy in a multi-valued treatment setting, the study shows that the reform-induced increase in the work horizon of mothers caused an increase in the probability of their offsprings seeking their first job and a decrease in these offsprings' probability of being a student. This effect is higher on male offsprings and is stronger in southern Italy. Fathers did not significantly affect the student status or any labour market outcomes of their offsprings. Mechanisms behind these findings include the longer reform-induced work horizon for mothers vs. fathers, and the consequent positive effect on mothers' lifetime earnings.
JEL Classification: I26, J18, J26
Variational Quantum Approximate Support Vector Machine With Inference Transfer
Authors: Park Siheon , Park Kyungdeock , Rhee June-Koo 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
A kernel-based quantum classifier is the most interesting and powerful quantum machine learning technique for hyperlinear classification of complex data, which can be easily realized in shallow-depth quantum circuits such as a SWAP test classifier. A variational quantum approximate support vector machine (VQASVM) can be realized inherently and explicitly on these circuits by introduction of a variational scheme to map the quadratic optimization problem of the support vector machine theory to a quantum-classical variational optimization problem. Probability weight modulation in index qubits of a classifier can designate support vectors among training vectors, which can be achieved with a parameterized quantum circuit (PQC). The classical parameters of PQC is then transferred to many copies of other decision inference circuits. Our VQASVM algorithm is experimented with toy example data sets on cloud-based quantum machines for feasibility evaluation, and numerically investigated to evaluate its performance on a standard iris flower and MNIST data set. The empirical run-time complexity of VQASVM is estimated to be sub-quadratic on the training data set size, while that of the classical solver is quadratic.