bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety of cholecystectomy in patients under antithrombotic Drugs: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shao Xiaolan , Cui Xiuhong
Published: October 2022

Objective: This review aimed to assess evidence on the safety of cholecystectomy in patients under antithrombotic therapy.

Methods: PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar databases were searched from inception up to 20th January 2022 for studies comparing outcomes of patients undergoing cholecystectomy surgeries with or without concomitant antithrombotic therapy.

Results: Nine studies were included. Meta-analysis revealed that the use of antithrombotic medications had no statistically significant effect on intra-operative blood loss in patients undergoing cholecystectomy (MD: 82.31 95% CI: -283.38, 448 I2=98% p=0.66). However, incidence of blood transfusion (OR: 5.65 95% CI: 1.10, 28.86 I2=83% p=0.04) and bleeding complications (OR: 8.02 95% CI: 1.71, 37.58 I2 = 71% p=0.008) were significantly increased in patients under antithrombotic therapy. Pooled analysis indicated that cholecystectomy patients under antithrombotic are at an increased risk of conversion to open surgery (OR: 2.02 95% CI: 1.21, 3.36 I2=0% p=0.007). Meta-analysis revealed significantly shorter LOS in patients under antithrombotic (MD: -5.01 95% CI: -8.29, -1.73 I2=97% p=0.03).

Conclusion: Current evidence from a limited number of studies indicates that the use of antithrombotic may be associated with an increased risk of bleeding-related complications in patients undergoing cholecystectomies. Antithrombotic use may also increase the risk of conversion to open surgery in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomies.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.7032

How to cite this:Shao X, Cui X. Safety of cholecystectomy in patients under antithrombotic Drugs: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(8):2365-2372. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.7032

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
SPME-GC-HRTOF-MS dataset of fermented maize flour volatilome
Authors: Adebo Oluwafemi Ayodeji , Gbashi Sefater , Kewuyemi Yusuf Olamide , Sobowale Sunday Samuel , Adeboye Adedola Sulaiman , Njobeh Patrick Berka , Oyeyinka Samson Adeoye , Wilkin Jonathan D. , Chinma Chiemela Enyinnaya
Published: October 2022

Background: The volatilome of fermented food products are essential metabolites that significantly contribute to such foods’ overall composition and sensorial quality. The dataset presented herein represents the volatilome of raw and fermented maize flour samples.

Methods: Maize grains were milled and naturally fermented at 35°C into sourdough at different periods (24, 48 and 72 h) and, at each point, the profile of the volatiles was investigated. Samples at the different fermentation periods were analyzed using solid phase microextraction coupled with a gas chromatography-high resolution time of flight-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-HRTOF-MS).

Results: Data obtained were classified into different compound groups such as alcohols, aldehydes, aromatic compounds, esters, organic acids, terpenes, ketones, among others and their characteristics such as the retention time, observed mass, molecular formular, mean peak areas and mass spectra also presented.

Conclusion: These datasets of fermented maize volatilome can be used as biomarkers for maize fermentation.
The hypogea of the churches of Naples: Burials and cult of the dead
Authors: Guarino Marcello
Published: October 2022

An interesting mortuary practice widespread in Naples until the second half of the nineteenth century was the one housed in the hypogea located under the floor of churches and convents. These funerary crypts were structured according to two organizational models based on the double burial system: the terresante and the scolatoi, both of which aimed at favouring the decomposition of the corpses and reaching the state of a skeleton. According to the established procedures, once skeletonization was accomplished, the skulls were usually displayed on a cornice running along the walls of the hypogeum, while non-cranial bones were placed in a common ossuary. The foundation of the ritual was the idea of death perceived not as a sudden event but as a long-lasting process, during which the deceased went through a transitional phase, gradually passing from the earthly state to the hereafter. Indeed, the ultimate purpose of these funerary rituals was the liberation of the bones from the earthly element of the flesh, an indispensable condition to allow the definitive passage of the soul into the afterlife. This process also had to been exhibited, and, therefore, in these hypogea the decomposition of the corpse was displayed to visitors. Through the corpse’s progressive decomposition, the ritual was intended to visually symbolize the various stages of purification faced by the soul on its path towards the kingdom of the dead, a destination considered reached only when the skeletonization was complete, and the definitive burial carried out. This article briefly reviews the structural organization of these underground sepulchral chambers, the funerary practices held within and the worships which took root and developed within them.
Extracellular local field potentials in men and women based on a theoretical model of voltage decrease as a function of distance
Authors: Koch Horst J. , Raschka Christoph
Published: October 2022

Extracellular microelectrodes determine the field potential difference adjacent to the neuron and depend on the composition of the tissue, including ohmic resistance and distance from the source. Based on theoretical aspects, a reciprocal voltage versus distance model is postulated, which was assessed by means of clinical neurographical data in men and women. Data of women showed higher voltages and could be slightly better fitted to the model. Voltage amplitude and to a lesser extent rise time (RT) were the only action potential characteristics which could predict the gender in a discriminant analysis model. In conclusion, neurographical studies may be a suitable option to assess ohmic resistance of tissue and composition of tissue in addition to bioimpedance (BIA) methods.
Association of sociodemographic variables with nutritional status among the college girls of Howrah, West Bengal, India
Authors: Das Bhanabi , Kanrar Priyanka , Goswami Monali
Published: October 2022

Nutritional status of young adult girls is very essential since they are future mothers, and their nutritional requirements increase tremendously compared to the preceding years of growth. The present study was an endeavour to assess the nutritional status and to find an association between sociodemographic variables and nutritional status among young adult college girls of Howrah, West Bengal. The study included a total of 140 college girls aged between 18 to 20 years. The sociodemographic data were collected by the interview method using a pretested standard structured schedule. The anthropometric data were measured by the standard protocol. For the comparison of anthropometric data, growth charts of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were used. The anthropometric measures like weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), suprailiac skinfold, body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR) and waistheight ratio (WHtR) show an increasing trend according to age groups. Based on BMI, 25.7% of the young adult college girls were found to be underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), which includes chronic energy deficiency (CED) grade I (13.6%), chronic energy deficiency (CED) grade II (7.9%) and chronic energy deficiency (CED) grade III (4.3%). BMI for age (< 5th percentile) or thinness showed a significant difference (p < 0.01) according to age. Similarly, stature for age (< 5th percentile) or stunting shows a significant association (p < 0.05) with father’s education, and underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2) shows a significant association (p < 0.05) with monthly family household income. The results of linear regression show that sociodemographic variables and food habits were significant predictors of various anthropometric measures. Monthly family income and frequency of eating fast food per week were significant predictors of BMI and MUAC, and the age of the participant and the education of the mother were significant predictors of WHR, and family income per month and the age of the participant were significant predictors of WHtR. Thus, the present study provides a podium for further studies to combat the effect of undernutrition among future mothers and instigates effective nutritional intervention strategies entailing this vulnerable group.
Teaching activities in flipped classroom study design
Authors: Hussar Piret , Kraav Tiina , Lumiste Kaur , Raal Ain , Uiboleht Kaire
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the flipped classroom (FC) methodology – contact learning preceded by individual learning and the creation of prior knowledge in the learner – has become increasingly common in university teaching. However, the design of the FC has been applied differently in teaching. The aim of our research was to map the teaching activities used in various FC designs and to compare the use of the methods for study groups of different sizes. In order to map the teaching activities of the FC design, we compared 10 different study designs as well as the teaching activities used in study groups with different numbers of students. The study groups were divided into large groups including more than 30 students and small study groups with less than 30 students. As a result of the comparison of the different study designs, we mapped teaching activities conducting teaching by FC methodology. The different teaching activities of the FC suited equally well to the dissimilar study groups.
Hypertension and its risk factors among the Shabar tribe: A community-based cross-sectional study in Odisha, India
Authors: Chakrabarty Suman , Bharati Premananda
Published: October 2022

In developing countries like India, the increasing trend of hypertension is one of the significant public health problems. In recent times, the Indian tribes are also experiencing a similar trend, which is rarely documented and less emphasized.

The objectives of the present study are to assess the prevalence of hypertension among the Shabar tribe and to understand the association with some selected biological, behavioural and socio-economic factors. The data were collected from 816 individuals (389 males and 427 females, aged 20 to 60 years) in the Khurda and Cuttack districts of Odisha. Conventional methodologies were used to collect the cross-sectional data of blood pressure and other parameters.

It was found that 9.2% of the respondents suffered from hypertension (SBP ≥ 140 and DBP ≥ 90 mmHg), and 12.3% had high normal blood pressure (SBP ≥ 130 and DBP ≥ 85 mmHg). The unadjusted odd ratios showed that the proportion of hypertension increased significantly as age increased. High normal blood pressure and hypertension were significantly higher in females and people who belonged to the high-income group and consumed more fat. The Shabar people who suffered from overweight and obesity, took extra salt during meals, smokers, smokeless tobacco chewers, and alcoholics were more vulnerable to hypertension and high blood pressure. Interestingly, the participants who perceived their fatty bodies and engaged in light activities were more likely to be hypertensive than their counterparts.

Shabar people residing in Odisha state have shown increasing frequencies of hypertension with advancing age. A significant co-occurrence of higher body mass index (BMI), fewer physical activities, increased fat consumption, and changing habits relating behaviour to hypertension may be designated as potential risk factors.
Comparison of agility in 13–16-year-old volleyball and football players and non-athletes
Authors: Stamm Raini , Stamm Karmen , Stamm Meelis
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study was to find and compare the agility abilities and anthropometric characteristics of 13–16-year-old volleyball and football players and adolescents not engaged in sports. The following research questions were posed: to find the agility results and anthropometric characteristics of volleyball and football players and non-athletes and to compare the agility results and anthropometric characteristics between athletes and not non-athletes and between different sports in both boys and girls. In total, 63 subjects participated in the study – 45 of them practised sports and 18 did not. Among those who practised sports, there were 19 volleyball and 26 football players. The following agility tests were applied in the study: T-test, four corners test, 5-0-5 run test and Illinois test. For data analysis, the Microsoft Excel program was used. The subjects’ height, weight, fat percentage and fat amount were measured. The means, minimum and maximum values, standard deviations, and body mass indices were calculated. To find correlations within the groups, correlation analysis was used. To establish statistical significance between the groups, Student’s t-test was used. The results revealed that, among both boys and girls, athletes were statistically significantly faster than non-athletes; only in Illinois test, there was no statistically significant difference. In girls, there were statistically significant differences between athletes and non-athletes in weight, fat percentage, fat amount and body mass index. In boys, however, there were no statistically significant differences in the body build characteristics between athletes and non-athletes. Football players were better in agility tests compared to volleyball players. Football boys were statistically significantly taller and older, and, in most tests, they were also statistically significantly faster than volleyball boys. Volleyball girls were statistically significantly taller and weighed more, but, in all tests, football girls were statistically significantly faster than volleyball girls. In all groups, the fat-related indicators, like fat percentage, fat amount and body mass index, were in mutual correlation. According to the body mass index scale, 45 subjects were of normal weight, 6 were overweight, 1 was obese and 11 were underweight. The authors of the paper hold the view that, namely in this age group, the athletes of sports games should practice agility and be tested in it, as, according to literature, the development of agility slows down at the age of 16–17 years, and therefore, can be one of the obstacles for reaching the top in adult athletes.
Neurodegenerations are diseases of the present and the future
Authors: Górska Ewelina , Bogdan Sylwia , Gorodkiewicz Ewa , Hermanowicz Adam
Published: October 2022

Neurodegenerations are diseases of the present and the future. As the human population grows, the number of people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases will increase. Neurodegenerations diseases are Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, spinocerebellar ataxia, spinal muscular ataxia), sporadic (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) or  infectious (prion disease). Nerve cells (neurons) can’t regenerate and therefore die under the influence of pathological factors. Neurodegenerations diseases can be serious or life-threatening. It depends on the type. Drags and treatments may help improve symptoms, relieve pain, and increase mobility.
From Perspective Maps to Epigraphical Projections
Authors: Friedlander Michael P. , Goodwin Ariel , Hoheisel Tim
Published: October 2022

The projection onto the epigraph or a level set of a closed proper convex function can be achieved by finding a root of a scalar equation that involves the proximal operator as a function of the proximal parameter. This paper develops the variational analysis of this scalar equation. The approach is based on a study of the variational-analytic properties of general convex optimization problems that are (partial) infimal projections of the sum of the function in question and the perspective map of a convex kernel. When the kernel is the Euclidean norm squared, the solution map corresponds to the proximal map, and thus, the variational properties derived for the general case apply to the proximal case. Properties of the value function and the corresponding solution map—including local Lipschitz continuity, directional differentiability, and semismoothness—are derived. An SC1 optimization framework for computing epigraphical and level-set projections is, thus, established. Numerical experiments on one-norm projection illustrate the effectiveness of the approach as compared with specialized algorithms.

Funding: This work was supported by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). M.P. Friedlander was supported by NSERC discovery grant [Grant RGPIN-2017-04461]. T. Hoheisel was supported by NSERC discovery grant [Grant RGPIN-2017-04035]. A. Goodwin’s work was partially supported by an NSERC summer research stipend.
Analysis on the effect of electron spin polarization on a hybrid optically pumped K-Rb-21Ne co-magnetometer
Authors: Fu Yang , Fan Wenfeng , Ruan Jiasen , Liu Ye , Wang Zhuo , Zhou Xinxiu , Quan Wei
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the effect of longitudinal electron spin polarization under the combined action of alkali metal density ratio and pump laser power density on the hybrid optically pumped co-magnetometer operated in the spin-exchange relaxation-free (SERF) regime is studied. The AC response model of rotation velocity and magnetic noise of the SERF co-magnetometer system is proposed, and the factors of frequency and system bandwidth are considered. Based on the proposed response model, the error equation of the system is obtained, and the relationship between alkali metal density ratio and pump laser power density and the system noise response is theoretically analyzed and experimentally tested. The results show that when the product of pumping rate and alkali metal density ratio is greater than the electron spin relaxation rate, there is a longitudinal electron spin polarization point that minimizes the system error. In addition, the range of minimum error calculated results obtained by changing the pumping rate for the cells with different alkali metal density ratios is within 5% of the average value, that is, their minimum error potential is roughly the same within a certain range. Under the experimental conditions in this paper, due to the limitation of the electron spin relaxation rate and the operating capacity of the pump laser, the optimal alkali metal density ratio range is about 1/100-1/300.
Design of a three-phase amplitude macro-pixel full-color complex spatial light modulator with an in-cell geometric phase retardation layer
Authors: Na Sehwan , Kim Soobin , Lee Jonghyun , Kim Yunhee , Kim Hwi
Published: October 2022

Complex spatial light modulation, which can simultaneously control the amplitude and phase of light, is an essential optical technology for holographic display. We propose a twisted nematic liquid crystal (TNLC) mode with an in-cell type embedded geometric phase (GP) plate for full-color complex spatial light modulation. The proposed architecture provides an achromatic full-color complex light modulation capability in the far-field plane. The feasibility and working characteristics of the design are validated through numerical simulation.
Compact acousto-optical Q-switched Yb:ScBO3 laser with giant pulse energy
Authors: Li Xiaoheng , Lu Dazhi , Yu Haohai , Zhang Huaijin
Published: October 2022

In this Letter, a continuous-wave Yb:ScBO3 laser was enhanced with a maximum output power of 1.63 W and a slope efficiency of 48.97%, pumped by a continuous-wave 965 nm diode laser. Subsequently, the first, to the best of our knowledge, acousto-optically Q-switched Yb:ScBO3 laser was realized with an output wavelength of 1022 nm and repetition rates ranging from 0.04 to 1 kHz. The characteristics of pulsed lasers modulated by a commercial acousto-optic Q switcher were comprehensively demonstrated. With a low repetition rate of 0.05 kHz, the pulsed laser was generated under an absorbed pump power of 2.62 W, having an average output power of 0.44 W and giant pulse energy of 8.80 mJ. The pulse width and peak power were 80.71 ns and 109 kW, respectively. The findings manifest that the Yb:ScBO3 crystal is a gain medium with great potential for Q-switched laser generation with high pulse energy.
Deep mendelian randomization: Investigating the causal knowledge of genomic deep learning models
Authors: Malina Stephen , Cizin Daniel , Knowles David A.
Published: October 2022

Multi-task deep learning (DL) models can accurately predict diverse genomic marks from sequence, but whether these models learn the causal relationships between genomic marks is unknown. Here, we describe Deep Mendelian Randomization (DeepMR), a method for estimating causal relationships between genomic marks learned by genomic DL models. By combining Mendelian randomization within silicomutagenesis,DeepMRobtains local (locus specific) and global estimates of (an assumed) linear causal relationship between marks. In a simulation designed to test recovery of pairwise causal relations between transcription factors (TFs),DeepMRgives accurate and unbiased estimates of the ‘true’ global causal effect, but its coverage decays in the presence of sequence-dependent confounding. We then applyDeepMRto examine the global relationships learned by a state-of-the-art DL model, BPNet, between TFs involved in reprogramming.DeepMR’s causal effect estimates validate previously hypothesized relationships between TFs and suggest new relationships for future investigation.
Classifying ball trajectories in invasion sports using dynamic time warping: A basketball case study
Authors: Yu Yu Yi , Wu Paul Pao-Yen , Mengersen Kerrie , Hobbs Wade
Published: October 2022

Comparison and classification of ball trajectories can provide insight to support coaches and players in analysing their plays or opposition plays. This is challenging due to the innate variability and uncertainty of ball trajectories in space and time. We propose a framework based on Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) to cluster, compare and characterise trajectories in relation to play outcomes. Seventy-two international women’s basketball games were analysed, where features such as ball trajectory, possession time and possession outcome were recorded. DTW was used to quantify the alignment-adjusted distance between three dimensional (two spatial, one temporal) trajectories. This distance, along with final location for the play (usually the shot), was then used to cluster trajectories. These clusters supported the conventional wisdom of higher scoring rates for fast breaks, but also identified other contextual factors affecting scoring rate, including bias towards one side of the court. In addition, some high scoring rate clusters were associated with greater mean change in the direction of ball movement, supporting the notion of entropy affecting effectiveness. Coaches and other end users could use such a framework to help make better use of their time by honing in on groups of effective or problematic plays for manual video analysis, for both their team and when scouting opponent teams and suggests new predictors for machine learning to analyse and predict trajectory-based sports.
The global polarisation of remote work
Authors: Braesemann Fabian , Stephany Fabian , Teutloff Ole , Kässi Otto , Graham Mark , Lehdonvirta Vili
Published: October 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to the rise of digitally enabled remote work with consequences for the global division of labour. Remote work could connect labour markets, but it might also increase spatial polarisation. However, our understanding of the geographies of remote work is limited. Specifically, in how far could remote work connect employers and workers in different countries? Does it bring jobs to rural areas because of lower living costs, or does it concentrate in large cities? And how do skill requirements affect competition for employment and wages? We use data from a fully remote labour market—an online labour platform—to show that remote platform work is polarised along three dimensions. First, countries are globally divided: North American, European, and South Asian remote platform workers attract most jobs, while many Global South countries participate only marginally. Secondly, remote jobs are pulled to large cities; rural areas fall behind. Thirdly, remote work is polarised along the skill axis: workers with in-demand skills attract profitable jobs, while others face intense competition and obtain low wages. The findings suggest that agglomerative forces linked to the unequal spatial distribution of skills, human capital, and opportunities shape the global geography of remote work. These forces pull remote work to places with institutions that foster specialisation and complex economic activities, i. e. metropolitan areas focused on information and communication technologies. Locations without access to these enabling institutions—in many cases, rural areas—fall behind. To make remote work an effective tool for economic and rural development, it would need to be complemented by local skill-building, infrastructure investment, and labour market programmes.
A contemporary baseline of Madagascar’s coral assemblages: Reefs with high coral diversity, abundance, and function associated with marine protected areas
Authors: Randrianarivo Mahery , Guilhaumon François , Tsilavonarivo Johanès , Razakandrainy Andriamanjato , Philippe Jacques , Botosoamananto Radonirina Lebely , Penin Lucie , Todinanahary Gildas , Adjeroud Mehdi
Published: October 2022

Madagascar is a major hotspot of biodiversity in the Western Indian Ocean, but, as in many other regions, coral reefs surrounding the island confront large-scale disturbances and human-induced local stressors. Conservation actions have been implemented with encouraging results for fisheries, though their benefit on coral assemblages has never been rigorously addressed. In this context, we analyzed the multiscale spatial variation of the composition, generic richness, abundance, life history strategies, and cover of coral assemblages among 18 stations placed at three regions around the island. The potential influences of marine protected areas (MPAs), algal cover, substrate rugosity, herbivorous fish biomass, and geographic location were also analyzed. Our results highlight the marked spatial variability, with variation at either or both regional and local scales for all coral descriptors. The northeast coastal region of Masoala was characterized by the high abundance of coral colonies, most notably of the competitiveAcroporaandPocilloporagenera and stress-tolerant taxa at several stations. The southwest station of Salary Nord was distinguished by lower abundances, with depauperate populations of competitive taxa. On the northwest coast, Nosy-Be was characterized by higher diversity and abundance as well as by high coral cover (~42–70%) recorded at unfished stations. Results clearly underline the positive effects of MPAs on all but one of the coral descriptors, particularly at Nosy-Be where the highest contrast between fished and unfished stations was observed. Biomass of herbivorous fishes, crustose coralline algae cover, and substrate rugosity were also positively related to several coral descriptors. The occurrence of reefs with high diversity, abundance, and cover of corals, including the competitiveAcropora, is a major finding of this study. Our results strongly support the implementation of locally managed marine areas with strong involvement by primary users, particularly to assist in management in countries with reduced logistic and human resources such as Madagascar.
Effects of the FIFA 11+ and a modified warm-up programme on injury prevention and performance improvement among youth male football players
Authors: Asgari Mojtaba , Alizadeh Mohammad Hossein , Shahrbanian Shahnaz , Nolte Kevin , Jaitner Thomas
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The effects of the FIFA11+ programme (the 11+) on ankle and groin injuries and performance have remained questionable. The latter, particularly, has potentially reduced the implementation rate and applicability of the programme. This study aimed to evaluate the mid-to-long-term effects of the 11+ and a modified programme including football-specific exercises on injury prevention and performance improvement.

Materials and methods

Three teams of the Iranian Youth League (division two) volunteered to participate in this study and were randomly assigned to two intervention groups (F11+; n = 29, M11+; n = 31) and a control group (n = 30). The F11+ followed the FIFA 11+ programme, whereas the M11+ performed modified exercises three times weekly as a warm-up protocol before training and competition through a football season. The control group carried out its routine warm-ups, including joggings, basic football drills, and static stretches, while having no injury prevention approaches. Lower extremity injuries, as well as exposure time for each player, were recorded. The football-specific performance was assessed using the Illinois Agility and Slalom Dribbling tests. ANOVA, Fisher Freeman Halton, and chi-square tests were used to analyze the data.

Results

Injury incidences differed significantly between groups (p = 0.02, C = 0.40), with M11+ reporting the lowest incidence. Significant differences between the pre- and posttest as well as differences between the groups for development over time were revealed for the Illinois agility and dribbling speed (p≤0.01). Both performance tests demonstrated a large time effect, as the effect sizes for time in agility and dribbling speed were 0.74 (CI = [0.66; 0.79]) and 0.86 (CI = [0.79; 0.87]), respectively. The effect size for the interaction can be categorized as medium, with 0.38 (CI = [0.25; 0.49]) for agility and 0.52 (CI = [0.40; 0.61]) for dribbling speed. M11+ showed the largest improvement in both.

Discussion

Mid-to-long-term application of a structured dynamic warm-up that integrates injury prevention and performance approaches may lower injury incidences and improve youth subelite players’ performance. Although additional studies with larger samples are needed to prove the results of the current study, the amateur clubs/teams could integrate such twofold dynamic warm up into their routine training plan and benefit its advantages on injury prevention and performance improvement.
Identification of putative transcriptomic biomarkers in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Differential gene expression and regulation of TPH1 and SERT by vitamin D
Authors: Grozić Aleksandra , Coker Keaton , Dussik Christopher M. , Sabir Marya S. , Sabir Zhela , Bradley Arianna , Zhang Lin , Park Jin , Yale Steven , Kaneko Ichiro , Hockley Maryam , Harris Lucinda A. , Lunsford Tisha N. , Sandrin Todd R. , Jurutka Peter W.
Published: October 2022

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders and affects approximately 4% of the global population. The diagnosis of IBS can be made based on symptoms using the validated Rome criteria and ruling out commonly occurring organic diseases. Although biomarkers exist for “IBS mimickers” such as celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), no such test exists for IBS. DNA microarrays of colonic tissue have been used to identify disease-associated variants in other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In this study, our objective was to identify biomarkers and unique gene expression patterns that may define the pathological state of IBS. Mucosal tissue samples were collected from the sigmoid colon of 29 participants (11 IBS and 18 healthy controls). DNA microarray analysis was used to assess gene expression profiling. Extraction and purification of RNA were then performed and used to synthesize cDNA. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to identify differentially expressed genes in patients diagnosed with IBS compared to healthy, non-IBS patient-derived cDNA. Additional testing probed vitamin D-mediated regulation of select genes associated with serotonergic metabolism. DNA microarray analyses led to the identification of 858 differentially expressed genes that may characterize the IBS pathological state. After screening a series of genes using a combination of gene ontological analysis and RT-qPCR, this spectrum of potential IBS biomarkers was narrowed to 23 genes, some of which are regulated by vitamin D. Seven putative IBS biomarkers, including genes involved in serotonin metabolism, were identified. This work further supports the hypothesis that IBS pathophysiology is evident within the human transcriptome and that vitamin D modulates differential expression of genes in IBS patients. This suggests that IBS pathophysiology may also involve vitamin D deficiency and/or an irregularity in serotonin metabolism.
Bat dynamics modelling as a tool for conservation management in subterranean environments
Authors: Măntoiu Dragoş Ştefan , Mirea Ionuţ Cornel , Şandric Ionuţ Cosmin , Cîşlariu Alina Georgiana , Gherghel Iulian , Constantin Silviu , Moldovan Oana Teodora
Published: October 2022

Bat species inhabit subterranean environments (e.g., caves and mines) in small areas with specific microclimatic conditions, during various periods of their life cycle. Bats can be negatively influenced by microclimatic changes within their roosts if optimal habitat patches become unavailable. Therefore, proper management solutions must be applied for the conservation of vulnerable bat populations, especially in show caves. We have pursued an ensemble species distribution modelling approach in subterranean environments to identify sensible patches for bats. Using multi-annual temperature monitoring and bat distribution surveys performed within ten caves and mines, including show caves, we modelled relevant habitat patches for five bat species. The temperature-based variables generated from this approach proved to be effective when processed via species distribution models, which generated optimal validation results, even for bats that were heavily clustered in colonies. Management measures are proposed for each show cave to help in long-time conservation of hibernation and maternity colonies. These measures include creating suitable microclimatic patches within the caves by ecological reconstruction measures, tourist management practices in relation to bats, and show cave fitting recommendations. This approach has never been performed at this scale due to the complex geostatistical challenges involving subterranean environment mapping and can be further used as best practice guidelines for future conservation projects.
Perceived empowerment and the impact of negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of life of persons with severe mental illness
Authors: Mueller-Stierlin Annabel Sandra , Meixner Friedrich , Lehle Jutta , Kohlmann Anne , Schumacher Mara , Woehler Stefanie , Haensel Anke , Reuter Sabrina , Herder Katrin , Bias Nicole , Becker Thomas , Kilian Reinhold
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Beyond its direct effects on physical health the COVID-19 pandemic has been shown to have negative effects on the living situation of people with severe mental illness (SMI). To date, there has been little research on resilience factors preventing people with SMI from experiencing negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of perceived empowerment (PE) as a resilience factor, preventing people with SMI from experiencing negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on daily living.

Methods

We investigated negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on daily living in 931 persons with SMI at two times within six month between June 2020 and Mai 2021. To take into account the longitudinal structure of the data we applied mixed effects regression analyses and longitudinal path models.

Results

A majority of participants experienced negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on several dimensions of daily living. Negative effects increased with rising levels of illness-related impairment but decreased as the level of PE rose. While negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic at follow-up were negatively associated with overall subjective quality of life baseline, PE was negatively associated with the negative impact of the pandemic and positively with quality of life.

Conclusion

Patients with SMI need support to reduce negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on their quality of life. The promotion of PE could help strengthen resilience in this target group.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register, DRKS00019086, registered on 3 January 2020. (https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00019086).
The effect of worked material hardness on stone tool wear
Authors: Rodriguez Alice , Yanamandra Kaushik , Witek Lukasz , Wang Zhong , Behera Rakesh K. , Iovita Radu
Published: October 2022

The identification of ancient worked materials is one of the fundamental goals of lithic use wear analysis and one of the most important parts of understanding how stone tools were used in the past. Given the documented overlaps in wear patterns generated by different materials, it is imperative to understand how individual materials’ mechanical properties might influence wear formation. Because isolating physical parameters and measuring their change is necessary for such an endeavor, controlled (rather than replicative) experiments combined with objective measurements of surface topography are necessary to better grasp how surface modifications formed on stone tools. Therefore, we used a tribometer to wear natural flint surfaces against five materials (bone, antler, beech wood, spruce wood, and ivory) under the same force, and speed, over one, three, and five hours. The study aimed to test if there is a correlation between surface modifications and the hardness of the worked material. We measured each raw material’s hardness using a nano-indentation test, and we compared the surface texture of the flint bits using a 3D optical profilometer. The interfacial detritus powder was analyzed with a scanning electron microscope to look for abraded flint particles. We demonstrate that, contrary to expectation, softer materials, such as wood, create a smoother surface than hard ones, such as ivory.
Three-dimensional fractal dimension and lacunarity features may noninvasively predict TERT promoter mutation status in grade 2 meningiomas
Authors: Won So Yeon , Lee Jun Ho , Lee Narae , Park Yae Won , Ahn Sung Soo , Kim Jinna , Chang Jong Hee , Kim Se Hoon , Lee Seung-Koo
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The 2021 World Health Organization classification includes telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (TERTp) mutation status as a factor for differentiating meningioma grades. Therefore, preoperative prediction of TERTp mutation may assist in clinical decision making. However, no previous study has applied fractal analysis for TERTp mutation status prediction in meningiomas. The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of three-dimensional (3D) fractal analysis for predicting the TERTp mutation status in grade 2 meningiomas.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with surgically confirmed grade 2 meningiomas (41 TERTp-wildtype and 7 TERTp-mutant) were included. 3D fractal dimension (FD) and lacunarity values were extracted from the fractal analysis. A predictive model combining clinical, conventional, and fractal parameters was built using logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to assess the ability of the model to predict TERTp mutation status.

Results

Patients with TERTp-mutant grade 2 meningiomas were older (P = 0.029) and had higher 3D FD (P = 0.026) and lacunarity (P = 0.004) values than patients with TERTp-wildtype grade 2 meningiomas. On multivariable logistic analysis, higher 3D FD values (odds ratio = 32.50, P = 0.039) and higher 3D lacunarity values (odds ratio = 20.54, P = 0.014) were significant predictors of TERTp mutation status. The area under the curve, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the multivariable model were 0.84 (95% confidence interval 0.71–0.93), 83.3%, 71.4%, and 85.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

3D FD and lacunarity may be useful imaging biomarkers for predicting TERTp mutation status in grade 2 meningiomas.
Comprehensive analysis of the immune implication of FABP4 in colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Dabin , Xiang Ling , Peng Linglong , Gu Haitao , Tang Yunhao , Luo Haoyun , Liu Hang , Wang Yaxu
Published: October 2022

Background

Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) has been reported to be associated with tumor progress and poor prognosis in various cancers. However, the relationship between FABP4 expression and tumor immunity in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is still poorly understood.

Methods

FABP4 mRNA expression was analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-COAD data. FABP4 protein staining was performed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in our 10 paired COAD samples and corresponding adjacent noncancerous tissues. The association between FABP4 and immune cell infiltration was evaluated by Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) database. FABP4 coexpressed genes were identified based on Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) database, which were employed for further enrichment analysis. FABP4 related immunomodulators was identified by Tumor and Immune System Interaction Database (TISIDB) database, and a prognostic risk signature was constructed based on FABP4-related immunomodulators using stepwise Cox regression analysis. A nomogram consists of FABP4 related immunomodulators signature and clinical parameters was developed to predict the overall survival (OS).

Results

In TCGA data, we found that the decreased FABP4 mRNA expression in COAD samples compared with normal samples, and low FABP4 mRNA expression was associated with B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, myeloid dendritic cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In our 10 paired samples, the protein levels of COAD were lower in all COAD tissues than in their adjacent noncancerous tissues. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that FABP4 coexpressed genes were mostly enriched in immune-related pathways. Based on 54 FABP4-related immunomodulators, a 2-gene FABP4-related prognostic risk signature was developed, and the signature stratified the patients into the high-risk and low-risk groups with statistically different survival outcomes. The Nomogram consists of the prognostic signature and clinical parameters had a certain predictability for prognosis of COAD patients.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that FABP4 is associated with 2-gene immune signature which also correlate with the prognosis of COAD patients.
Phylogeography of the striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius Pallas, 1771) in light of new data from central part of Northern Eurasia
Authors: Yalkovskaya Lidia , Sibiryakov Petr , Borodin Aleksandr
Published: October 2022

A phylogeographic analysis of A. agrarius based on the complete mtDNA cytochrome b and control region sequences has been performed using data obtained for the first time for the species from large regions of the central part of Northern Eurasia (23 localities of Altai, Western Siberia, and the Urals). The obtained results have demonstrated a complex intraspecific differentiation of A. agrarius, which has manifested not only in the isolation of the isles populations in Southeast Asia (Jeju and Taiwan), but also in the genetic heterogeneity of mainland populations, which has reflected the history of the modern intraspecific genetic diversity formation against the background of changing physiographic conditions of Eurasia in the Quaternary. The divergence of genetic lineages has taken place apparently simultaneously (in mid-Pleistocene) on the territory of the Eastern part of the modern disjunctive range, where all the identified lineages are present today. The demographic history and possible evolutionary scenarios for A. agrarius in the Western part of the range have been considered. TMRC reconstructions have shown that the lifetime of the common ancestor of the lineage that expanded in the Western Palearctic is about 17.7 [95% HPD 13.2–22.5] kyr. This suggests that the transcontinental expansion of A. agrarius is a relatively recent event that has occurred after the LGM.
Ultrasonography can replace chest X-rays in the postoperative care of thoracic surgical patients
Authors: J. Jakobson Daniel , Cohen Ornit , Cherniavsky Evgenia , Batumsky Moris , Fuchs Lior , Yellin Alon
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Lung ultrasound accurately identifies pulmonary and pleural pathologies. Presently it has not been accepted as a routine examination in the postoperative follow-up of thoracic surgical patients. The present study aimed to compare thoracic ultrasonography with chest X-ray for detecting and clinical relevance of pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and lung consolidation and determine whether ultrasonography could replace chest X-ray as the standard examination after surgery.

Methods

In this blinded, prospective, single-center study, lung ultrasound images were obtained within 2 hours of post-operative routine chest X-ray. A severity score was given to each examination in each technique. Lung ultrasound and chest X-ray results were compared by three methods: absolute comparison of normal to abnormal, the degree of pathology, and the clinical findings’ relevance.

Results

Eighty patients were enrolled from 2013 to 2017, and 215 ultrasonography images were obtained. For pneumothorax, the precise overlap was found in 129/180 (72%) images. In 24% of examinations, X-ray missed ultrasonography findings. There was an agreement between studies in 80/212 (38%) images for pleural effusion. 60% of pleural effusions were missed by chest X-ray and detected by ultrasonography, and only 2.4% were missed by ultrasound, all very small. Clinically relevant fluid accumulation found a precise match in 80%, and 20% were found only by lung ultrasound. For lung consolidation, a 100% overlap was found with both methods.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that lung ultrasound may replace chest X-ray as the standard examination in the postoperative care of patients undergoing thoracic surgical procedures.