bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESPs in High Productivity Wells and Use of Pressure Derivatives to Understand Behavior
Authors: Dowling M. , Lemus A.
Published: September 2023

Operators and manufacturers of ESP equipment have generally overlooked the consequences of high productivity on the operation of Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESP's). The high productivity itself causes issues such as the difficulty to identify correct rotation when starting an ESP in a well for the first time. This issue manifests itself as a small drop in intake pressure, even at high flowrates, which can make it difficult to be certain that the pump is running in the proper rotation, even after both directions have been tried. In some cases, this ambiguity causes pumps to run for lengthy periods in the wrong direction until other symptoms, such as a rise in motor temperature suggest that the performance is not correct and reverse rotation is possibly the reason for the higher temperature rise. Hence, in this paper we will introduce the application of pressure derivatives as an approach to identify the correct rotation direction when a rotation check has been conducted and also, as a strategy to aim at identifying the correct rotation much more quickly than traditional methods. In both scenarios, pressure derivatives create a signature that unmistakably differentiates the correct from the reverse rotation, which demonstrates a sound basis for determining proper operation on start-up. Furthermore, since pressure derivatives allow calculation of flowrate in the tubing and annulus based on the rate of change of pressure, they can be used to detect events such as no-flow conditions caused by gas lock, or a closed valve on surface, or a change in productivity, for example from zone bridging and plugging/unplugging.

High well productivity can create other complex situations linked to ESP's such as what the authors call ‘negative apparent productivity’. In this situation, a high productivity index, along with a high gas-to-liquid ratio (GLR), and a large distance between the pump and the producing zone, can combine to produce a counterintuitive behaviour in intake pressure at start-up, frequency change and stop. This is the effect of a significant difference in the pressure profiles in static and flowing conditions. Likewise, in this situation, we will provide an example of an offshore well where this behaviour was observed and will explain the underlying mechanism that produces it.
Reverse engineering the control law for schooling in zebrafish using virtual reality
Authors: Li Liang , Nagy Mate , Amichay Guy , Wang Wei , Deussen Oliver , Rus Daniela , Couzin Iain
Published: September 2023

Revealing the evolved mechanisms that give rise to collective behavior is a central objective in the study of cellular and organismal systems1-12. In addition, understanding the algorithmic basis of social interactions in a causal and quantitative way offers an important foundation for subsequently quantifying social deficits13-16. Here, we employ immersive Virtual Reality (VR)17 to reverse-engineer the sensory-motor control of social response during schooling in a vertebrate model: juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio). In addition to providing a highly-controlled means to understand how zebrafish translate visual input to movement decisions, networking our systems allows real fish to swim and interact together in the same virtual world. Together, this allows us to directly test models of social interactions in situ. A key feature of social response is shown to be single- and multi-target-oriented pursuit. This is based on a quasi-2D egocentric representation of the positional information of conspecifics, and is highly robust to incomplete sensory input. We demonstrate, including with a 'Turing test' for pursuit behavior, that all key features of this behavior are accounted for by individuals following a simple experimentally-derived proportional derivative control law, which we term 'BioPD'. Since target pursuit is key to effective control of autonomous vehicles, we evaluate—as a proof of principle—the potential utility of this simple evolved control law for human-engineered systems. In doing so, we find close-to-optimal performance in autonomous vehicles (terrestrial, airborne, and watercraft) pursuit, while requiring limited system-speciﬁc tuning or optimization.
Poor Sleep Quality Increases Gestational Weight Gain Rate in Pregnant People: Findings from the MADRES Study
Authors: Bastain Theresa , Naya Christine , Yang Tingyu , Vigil Mario , Chen Cindy , Chavez Thomas , Toledo-Corral Claudia , Farzan Shohreh , Habre Rima , Lerner Deborah , Lurvey Nathana , Grubbs Brendan , Dunton Genevieve , Breton Carrie , Eckel Sandrah
Published: September 2023

Background
Poor sleep quality is associated with weight gain in non-pregnant populations, but evidence in pregnant people is lacking. Our study examined the association between early-to-mid pregnancy sleep quality and weekly gestational weight gain (GWG) rate during mid-to-late pregnancy by pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI).
Method
Participants were 316 pregnant participants from the Maternal and Developmental Risks from Environmental and Social Stressors (MADRES) study. During early-to-mid pregnancy, participants reported their sleep quality which was used to construct four categories: very poor, poor, good, and very good. Linear growth curve models examined the association between early-to-mid pregnancy sleep quality and weekly rate of GWG (kg/week) during mid-to-late pregnancy (> 20 weeks gestation), with a three-way cross-level interaction between gestational age, sleep quality, and pre-pregnancy BMI category. Models adjusted for ethnicity by birthplace, hypertensive disorders, perceived stress score, and physical activity level.
Results
Overall, poorer early-to-mid pregnancy sleep quality was associated with increased weekly weight gain during mid-to-late pregnancy. For example, amongst normal weight participants, mid-to-late pregnancy weight gain was, on average, 0.39 kg (95% CI: 0.29, 0.48) per week for those with very good sleep quality, 0.53 kg (95% CI: 0.44, 0.61) per week for those with poor sleep quality, and 0.54 kg (95% CI: 0.46, 0.62) per week for those with very poor sleep quality during early-to-mid pregnancy. This difference in GWG rate was statistically significantly comparing very good to poor sleep (0.14 kg/week, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.26) and very good to very poor sleep (0.15kg/week, 85% CI: 0.02, 0.27). This association between sleep quality and GWG rate did not statistically differ by pre-pregnancy BMI.
Conclusion
Our study found very poor early-to-mid pregnancy sleep quality was associated with higher mid-to-late pregnancy GWG rate. Incorporating pregnancy-specific sleep recommendations into routine obstetric care may be a critical next step in promoting healthy GWG.
Influence of isotretinoin on orthodontic tooth movement in rats: microtomographic and histomorphometric analysis
Authors: Ferreira Mayra Fernanda , Silva Cristina Antoniali , Ervolino Edilson , Costa Luy de Abreu , Santos José Ricardo Prando dos , Delbem Alberto Carlos Botazzo , de Mendonça Marcos Rogério
Published: September 2023

Objective
Isotretinoin, also known as 13-cis-retinoic acid, is an isomer of tretinoin, the oxidized form of Vitamin A. Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is the result of a cascade of inflammatory responses stimulated by a physical element that is the force generated by orthodontic appliances. Considering that there are individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment while also using isotretinoin, and that there is limited information on the effects of this combination in the literature, we are proposing this study to evaluate the influence of isotretinoin on OTM.
Materials and Methods
Thirty-five animals were used, and they were randomly divided into 7 groups, containing 5 animals in each group. Group 1: Control; Group 2: OTM for 7 days; Group 3: OTM for 14 days; Group 4: Treated with isotretinoin for 14 days; Group 5: Treated with isotretinoin for 21 days; Group 6: Treated with isotretinoin for 14 days and undergoing OTM for 7 days; Group 7: Treated with isotretinoin for 21 days and undergoing OTM for 14 days. In Groups 6 and 7, the animals were treated with isotretinoin at a dosage of 1.0mg/kg/day for 7 days before OTM and maintained during the movement period in the respective groups.
Results
There was no significant difference on microtomographic parameters [Trabecular Volume (BV/TV), Trabecular Thickness (Tb.Th), Number of Trabeculae (Tb.N) and Trabecular Separation (Tb.Sp)] and tooth displacement between groups.
Conclusion
Isotretinoin did not cause a reduction in tooth displacement during OTM when administered at a dose of 1.0mg/kg/day and isotretinoin did not change the microtomographic parameters of animals treated with isotretinoin + OTM.
A click-based electrocorticographic brain-computer interface enables long-term high-performance switch-scan spelling
Authors: Candrea Daniel N. , Shah Samyak , Luo Shiyu , Angrick Miguel , Rabbani Qinwan , Coogan Christopher , Milsap Griffin W. , Nathan Kevin C. , Wester Brock A. , Anderson William S. , Rosenblatt Kathryn R. , Uchil Alpa , Clawson Lora , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Vansteensel Mariska J. , Tenore Francesco V. , Ramsey Nicolas F. , Fifer Matthew S. , Crone Nathan E.
Published: September 2023

Background Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can restore communication in movement- and/or speech-impaired individuals by enabling neural control of computer typing applications. Single command “click” decoders provide a basic yet highly functional capability.Methods We sought to test the performance and long-term stability of click-decoding using a chronically implanted high density electrocorticographic (ECoG) BCI with coverage of the sensorimotor cortex in a human clinical trial participant (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03567213) with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We trained the participant’s click decoder using a small amount of training data (< 44 minutes across four days) collected up to 21 days prior to BCI use, and then tested it over a period of 90 days without any retraining or updating.Results Using this click decoder to navigate a switch-scanning spelling interface, the study participant was able to maintain a median spelling rate of 10.2 characters per min. Though a transient reduction in signal power modulation interrupted testing with this fixed model, a new click decoder achieved comparable performance despite being trained with even less data (< 15 min, within one day).Conclusion These results demonstrate that a click decoder can be trained with a small ECoG dataset while retaining robust performance for extended periods, providing functional text-based communication to BCI users.
Study on the influence of structural characteristics of urban green space plant communities on carbon sequestration and its optimal regulation
Authors: Zhang Xuguang , Huang Hengshuo , Tu Ke , Li Rui , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Peng , Li Yonghua , Yang Qiusheng , Acerman Aidan C , Guo Nan , Liu Yang
Published: September 2023

Plant communities serve as the fundamental components of urban green spaces and play a critical role in mitigating climate change by reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The structural characteristics of plant communities have a significant impact on their carbon sequestration function. This study utilized aboveground carbon storage, soil carbon storage, and maintenance carbon emissions as quantifiers of carbon income and expenditure and examined 106 plant communities (20 m×20 m) in Zhengzhou Green Expo Park. The aim was to establish a statistical relationship model between the plant community structural characteristics and total annual carbon sequestration, providing a quantitative basis for regulating community structure to improve the carbon sequestration ability of urban green spaces. The results showed that density and coverage characteristics were significant factors positively correlated with the annual carbon sequestration of the plant communities. The fastest increase in annual carbon sequestration in the plant community reached 44%, from 183.04 kg CO2-eq/y− 1 to 327.67 kg CO2-eq/y− 1/400 m2, with density ranging from 0.1 to 0.15 and coverage from 0.5 to 1. The carbon sequestration amount did not increase significantly following continuous increases in density and coverage characteristics. Density played a key structural role in regulating the total carbon sequestration of the plant communities, being 27.24 times more effective than coverage. This study provides valuable data for increasing the carbon sink ability of urban green spaces through plant structure regulation and supporting low-carbon development strategies in urban management and also has positive implications for reducing the atmospheric carbon content and mitigating climate warming potentials in urban green spaces.
The lncRNA Snhg11, a new candidate contributing to neurogenesis, plasticity and memory deficits in Down syndrome
Authors: Dierssen Mara , Sierra Cesar , Sabariego Miguel , Fernández-Blanco Alvaro , Cruciani Sonia , Zamora-Moratalla Alfonsa , Novoa Eva Maria
Published: September 2023

Down syndrome (DS) stands as the prevalent genetic cause of intellectual disability, yet comprehensive understanding of its cellular and molecular underpinnings remains limited. In this study, we explore the cellular landscape of the hippocampus in a DS mouse model through single-nuclei transcriptional profiling. Our findings demonstrate that trisomy manifests as a highly specific modification of the transcriptome within distinct cell types. Remarkably, we observed a significant shift in the transcriptomic profile of granule cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) associated with trisomy. We identified the downregulation of a specific small nucleolar RNA host gene, Snhg11, as the primary driver behind this observed shift in the trisomic DG. Notably, reduced levels of Snhg11 in this region were also observed in a distinct DS mouse model, the Dp(16)1Yey, as well as in human postmortem tissue, indicating its relevance in Down syndrome. To elucidate the function of this long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), we knocked down Snhg11 in the DG of wild-type mice. Intriguingly, this intervention alone was sufficient to impair synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis, resembling the cognitive phenotypes associated with trisomy in the hippocampus. Our study uncovers the functional role of Snhg11 in the DG and underscores the significance of this lncRNA in intellectual disability. Furthermore, our findings highlight the importance of the DG in the memory deficits observed in Down syndrome.
The ARIA trial protocol; A randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical, technical and cost effectiveness of a cloud-based, ARtificially Intelligent image fusion system in comparison to standard treatment to guide endovascular Aortic aneurysm repair (ARIA)
Authors: Budge James , Carrell Tom , Yaqub Medeah , Wafa Hatem , Waltham Matt , Pilecka Izabela , Kelly Joanna , Murphy Caroline , Palmer Stephen , Wang Yanzhong , Clough Rachel
Published: September 2023

Background
Endovascular repair of aortic aneurysmal disease is established due to perceived advantages in patient survival, reduced postoperative complications, and shorter hospital lengths of stay. High spatial and contrast resolution 3D CT angiography images are used to plan the procedures and inform device selection and manufacture but in standard care the surgery is performed using image-guidance from 2D X-ray fluoroscopy with injection of nephrotoxic contrast material to visualise the blood vessels. This study aims to assess the benefit to patients, practitioners and the health service of a novel image fusion medical device (Cydar EV), which allows this high resolution 3D information to be available to operators at the time of surgery.
Methods
The trial is a multi-center, open label, two-armed randomised controlled clinical trial of 340 patient, randomised 1:1 to either standard treatment in endovascular aneurysm repair or treatment using Cydar EV, a CE-marked medical device comprising of cloud computing, augmented intelligence and computer vision. The primary outcome is procedural time, with secondary outcomes of procedural efficiency, technical effectiveness, patient outcomes and cost effectiveness. Patients with a clinical diagnosis of AAA or TAAA suitable for endovascular repair and able to provide written informed consent will be invited to participate.
Discussion
This trial is the first randomised controlled trial evaluating advanced image fusion technology in endovascular aortic surgery, and is well placed to evaluate the effect of this technology on patient outcomes and cost to the NHS.
Trial registration
: ISRCTN13832085
Emerging many-to-one weighted mapping in hippocampus-amygdala network underlies memory formation
Authors: Wang Dong , Liu Jun , Hall Arron
Published: September 2023

Memories are crucial for our daily lives, yet the network-level organizing principle that governs neural representations of our experiences remains to be determined. Employing dual-site electrophysiology recording in freely behaving mice, we discovered that hippocampal dorsal CA1 (dCA1) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) utilize distinct coding strategies to represent novel experiences. A small assembly of BLA neurons rapidly emerged during memory acquisition and remained active during subsequent consolidation, whereas the majority of dCA1 neurons engaged in the same processes. Machine learning decoding revealed that dCA1 population spikes predicted the BLA assembly firing rate. This suggests that most dCA1 neurons concurrently index an episodic event by rapidly establishing weighted communications with a specific BLA assembly, a process we call “many-to-one weighted mapping.” Furthermore, we demonstrated that closed-loop optoinhibition of BLA activity triggered by dCA1 ripples after new learning resulted in impaired memory. These findings highlight hippocampus-amygdala communication underlying memory formation and provide new insights into how the brain creates and stores memories.
Iranian medical students' experiences, perceptions, and psychological conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nedaei Abolfazl , Alehashemi Alireza , Farajpour Arezou , Roodbraki Narjes
Published: September 2023

Background and aim:Quarantine and social distancing caused by the 2019 coronavirus disease have posed significant challenges for various aspects of the healthcare system including medical students. On the other hand, being exposed to COVID-19 is associated with a high risk of depression and anxiety among healthcare workers. In this study, we attempt to examine the psychological effects and perceptions of medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: This national cross-sectional study was conducted on Iranian medical students in 2021. The data collection tool is an electronic questionnaire that includes demographic characteristics, the PHQ-9 and the GAD-7 standard questionnaires, and a researcher-designed questionnaire on medical students' educational experience.Results: 2176 medical students participated in our study. The results showed that the satisfaction of e-learning among Iranian medical students is below average. Additionally, we observed a high prevalence of depression (40.1%) and anxiety (23.9%). Also men were less depressed and anxious than women (p < 0.01). Although there are higher levels of anxiety among students in clinical years than non-clinical years (p = 0.005), there is no significant difference in the levels of depression and satisfaction of electronic education (p > 0.05). On the other hand, increase in depression and anxiety rates, as well as poor internet quality, were associated with a decrease in the satisfaction of e-learning (p < 0.001). Additionally, 62.1% of people agreed that blended learning is better to be continued after the pandemic.Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of depression and anxiety among students and its impact on e-learning satisfaction, it is recommended to establish effective strategies to provide support for medical students, especially during times of crisis.
Designing and testing low-cost solar water heater using date palm fibers and starch
Authors: Ziani Lotfi , Khemissat Mohamed Anis , Ziani Zakarya
Published: September 2023

Solar water heaters are a type of renewable energy technology that converts solar energy into heat to warm water. Solar water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance requirements. In this study, we focused on developing low-cost solar collectors using date palm waste as thermal insulation. Date palm waste is a readily available and abundant resource in many regions and using it in solar collectors can help reduce waste and promote sustainability. We created two solar collectors using crushed date palm waste, with one collector using the waste alone and the other mixed with starch. We conducted tests in accordance with the European standard EN 12975-2-2006 and modeled the thermal behavior of the collectors. Our results showed that our solar collectors performed well and exhibited behavior comparable to that of a commercial solar collector, with a production cost up to three times less. The use of date palm waste as thermal insulation in solar collectors is an innovative approach that aligns with the principles of sustainability and environmental friendliness. Furthermore, our study provides valuable insights into the development of low-cost solar water heaters, which could potentially increase the adoption of renewable energy technologies in various settings.
RETRACTED: Dietary supplementation of olive pomace in lactating buffaloes: effects on milk and yogurt composition and fatty acid profile toward heart health
Authors: Mohammadabadi Tahereh , Amindavar Siamak , Chaji Morteza , Direkvandi Ehsan
Published: September 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Study on the correlation between calprotectin level in children with simple obesity
Authors: Junlong Hu , Li Zhang
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum and fecal calprotectin levels in children with simple obesity, and to analyze the correlation of calprotectin with body mass index, inflammatory factors, and insulin resistance. Fifty-four children with simple obesity who visited the Department of Pediatrics of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from August 2018 to October 2020 were selected as the experimental group, and 60 healthy children with normal weight were selected as the control group. Height, weight, and body mass index were measured in the experimental and control group. Serum and fecal calprotectin, serum TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8,C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose and insulin were measured. Differences between the two groups were compared. The differences in body mass index, serum and fecal calprotectin, serum cytokines, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance between the two groups were statistically significant (p > 0.05). Serum calprotectin was correlated with body mass index, serum cytokines, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance, whereas fecal calprotectin was only correlated with body mass index. Obese children were in a state of metabolic disorders and chronic inflammation, including an intestinal inflammation. Calprotectin may be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-associated chronic inflammation and insulin resistance.
Airborne influenza virus in daycare centers
Authors: Zhang Jia Lin , Wang Yu-Chun , Lee Yi Lien , Yang Chun-Yuh , Chen Pei-Shih
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the concentration of airborne influenza virus in daycare centers and influence factors, such as common colds prevalence, air pollutants, meteorological factors. A total of 209 air samples were collected from daycare centers in Kaohsiung and influenza virus was analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Air pollutants and metrological factors were measured using real-time monitoring equipment. Winter had the highest positive rates of airborne influenza virus and the highest prevalence of the common cold, followed by summer and autumn. The concentration of CO was significantly positively correlated with airborne influenza virus. Daycare center A with natural ventilation and air condition systems had the higher concentration of airborne influenza A virus, airborne fungi, and airborne bacteria, as well as prevalence of the common cold than those in daycare center B with a mechanical ventilation system and air purifiers, while the concentrations of CO2, CO, UFPs in daycare center A were lower than those in daycare center B. We successfully detected airborne influenza virus in daycare centers, demonstrating that aerosol sampling for influenza can provide novel epidemiological insights and inform the management of influenza in daycare centers.
Pica practice during pregnancy is associated with low maternal haemoglobin levels and gestational age among women in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Ayensu Jessica , Essuman Mainprice Akuoko , Nyavowoyi Ernestina Elikplim Atsupi , Russell Nicholas , Agyapong Nana Ama Frimpomaa , Mohammed Awal Seidu , Nsiah-Asamoah Christiana , Klevor Moses Kwashie
Published: September 2023

Background:Pica during pregnancy poses substantial harm to the mother and the unborn baby. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of pica practice and its associations with pregnancy and birth outcomes among mothers in Cape Coast, Ghana.Methods:A cross-sectional study involving 580 nursing mothers receiving postnatal care in three health facilities in the Cape Coast Metropolis was undertaken from July to September 2021. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on pica prevalence, knowledge of pica, pica practice, and pregnancy and birth outcomes.Results:The mean age of the participants was 28.63 ± 5.97 years.Prevalence of pica was 42.9%. White clay and ice were the most commonly consumed pica items. Statistically significant associations were found between pica behaviour and maternal haemoglobin levels at the first ANC visit (X2=13.568; p<0.001), 28thweek (X2=36.103; p<0.001) and 36thweek (X2=65.022; p<0.001) of pregnancy; infants’ gestational age (X2= 23.697; p = 0.004); maternal age (X2= 13.15; p = 0.004); occupation (X2= 10.50; p = 0.015); and maternal knowledge of pica and its effects (X2= 8.26; p = 0.004). Regression analysis revealed that pregnant women who practiced pica were more likely to have low haemoglobin levels at the first ANC visit (OR =1.878; 95% CI 1.341 -2.631, p<0.001), 28thweek (OR =2.853; 95% CI 2.018 - 4.032, p<0.001) and 36thweek of pregnancy (OR =4.255; 95% CI 2.967- 6.101, p<0.001). M mothers who practiced pica were more likely to deliver before 37 weeks of gestation (OR =2.404; 95% CI 1.682 – 3.436, p<0.001).Conclusion:Pica is a common practice among the study participants and was significantly associated with lower maternal haemoglobin levels and gestational age. Counselling and education on pica and its effects should be intensified and prioritized during the prenatal period.
Pre- and Peri-Pandemic Deployment Trajectories of Mental Health:Any Different?
Authors: Bühler Antje , Willmund Gerd-Dieter
Published: September 2023

Background
With the purpose of preventing the troops from becoming a contagion vector of SARS-Cov-2, pre-deployment and post-deployment quarantine have been mandatory for the military worldwide. This study investigates if deployment-related quarantining has impacted on the mental health trajectory across the deployment cycle. Pandemic-specific studies of mental health are criticized for lacking a pre-pandemic reference point. In this study, we address this shortcoming.
Method
We pooled pre-pandemic data and peri-pandemic data: The pre-pandemic sample, 156 soldiers, and a sub-sample of the pandemic sample, 130 soldiers, completed the BSI/Mini-SCL three times, two weeks before deployment, two weeks after deployment and at a follow-up, three to six months after deployment. This pandemic sub-sample had undergone pre-deployment and post-deployment quarantining. Soldiers in this subsample completed the Mini-SCL five times.
Results
Using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA, we found significant main effects for the within-subjects factor, showing a decrease in mental health symptoms over time, a significant main effect for the between subject factor, with the pandemic sample displaying a higher General Severity Index (GSI) of the Mini-SCL/BSI than the pre-pandemic sample, and a significant interaction between both factors indicating different mental health trajectories across the deployment cycle.
Conclusions
Though the impact of the pandemic and specific containment measures are difficult to disentangle, this study suggests an impact of the pandemic rather than a health-adverse impact of the specific deployment-related quarantining. It illustrates how important it is for future studies to collect representative samples, select the critical timing of measurement and choosing the same economic measures.
Analysis of factors related to the use of analgesics in patients with acute pancreatitis
Authors: He Qiongyao , He Wu , Gong Jing , Lu Fu-Er
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas accompanied by abdominal pain, and analgesics are usually used to treat the pain of AP. We sought to identify factors associated with analgesic administration and independent risk factors for the increased frequency of analgesics administered in AP patients.
Methods: In this retrospective single-center observational study, we included eligible adult patients admitted with AP between 2018 and 2022. Patients were classified into 2 groups based on the use of analgesics: analgesic group and non-analgesic group.
Results: We included 600 AP patients and 40.6% received analgesia drug, of which 72.1% were treated with dizoxin and 54.4% with diclofenac sodium. Patient-related factors (history of gallstones, puncture and drainage, hyperlipidemia, severe pancreatitis, pancreatic injury, high infection index, liver and kidney dysfunction, hospital stay >14 days) were related to the use of analgesics. Severe pancreatitis and low-dose administration of diclofenac sodium were independent risk factors for the increased frequency of analgesics administered. The drug dependence was reduced when the patients were ≥ 65 years or had received diclofenac sodium at high dose.
Conclusions: In addition to the characteristics of patients, the prescription patterns of analgesics and the treatment methods of AP also have an impact on patients' analgesics use and dependence.
Validity and test-retest reliability of the Swedish version of the Geriatric Depression Scale among very old adults
Authors: Snellman Sandra , Hörnsten Carl , Olofsson Birgitta , Gustafson Yngve , Lövheim Hugo , Niklasson Johan
Published: September 2023

Background:
The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) has shown good validity and reliability, but few studies have examined the GDS among very old adults or the Swedish translation.
Objectives:
Evaluate the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of GDS-15 among very old adults.
Methods:
In the Umeå85+/GErontological Regional DAtabase (GERDA) study, 387 participants were assessed with both the GDS-15 and the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The mean age was 91 years. Concurrent validity between the scales was calculated using Spearman's correlation. We used the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) V symptom criteria for depression based on MADRS item scores to define depression. We calculated Area Under the Curve (AUC) and found an optimal cut off.
A convenience sample with 60 individuals was used to calculate test-retest reliability with Cohen’s kappa and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Results:
Spearman's correlation coefficients between total scores for GDS-15 and MADRS were 0.60. Cronbach's alpha for the whole scale was 0.73. The AUC was 0.90 for distinguishing major depression, and the recommended cut off of ≥ 5 showed a sensitivity of 95.2% and specificity of 65.8%. The test-retest showed that Cohen’s kappa was substantial (0.71) and the ICC was excellent (0.95).
Conclusions:
The Swedish version of the GDS-15 showed good validity and reliability among very old adults. The generally recommended cut-off of ≥ 5 seems reasonable to use with the Swedish version and among very old adults.
Dental caries status and related factors of 5-year-old children in Shanghai
Authors: Liu Yanchen , Zeng Xiaoli , Zhang Hao , Jiang Yiwei , Wang Huning , Yu Jin , Da Dongxing , Chen Qiwen , Su Hongru , Wu Zhengang , Shi Hongyan , You Jiangtao , Zhang Ying
Published: September 2023

Background
Dental caries in young children is a difficult global oral health problem. In the last decade, China has put much effort into reducing the prevalence of caries. This study, which is part of the China Population Chronic Disease and Nutrition Surveillance 2021, aims to investigate the prevalence of dental caries among children aged 5 in Shanghai, China, and investigate the factors affecting the incidence of caries and the direction for future improvement.
Methods
A total of 1281 children aged 5 years from 6 districts in Shanghai were selected by a stratified sampling method. The survey consisted of an oral health questionnaire and an oral health examination. The questionnaire included questions on oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. Oral health examination using WHO standards. After screening, the data were input and analysed. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were used to study the relevant factors affecting dental caries.
Results
The prevalence of caries in 1281 children was 51.0%, the dmft was 2.46±3.45, the Significant Caries Index (SiC) score was 6.39±2.40 and the SiC10 score was 10.35±3.17. Caries experience was related to the frequency of intaking sweet drinks, the age of starting tooth brushing, eating habits after brushing, whether they had received an oral examination provided by the government, and the mother's education level but was not related to gender, the use of fluoride toothpaste, the frequency of brushing, whether the parents assisted brushing, or the frequency of flossing. Logistic regression analysis showed that the region of young children, eating after brushing and the age of starting brushing were associated with caries.
Conclusions
The caries prevalence of 5-year-old children in Shanghai has been gradually reduced with the support of government investment and various policies, but it is still higher than that of developed countries. The government still needs to further increase investment and improve the oral awareness of the whole society.
Assessment of 3.0 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Madelung's Deformity: Findings and Implications
Authors: Ma Yimin , Guo Zhe , Wang Ling , Wang Qianqian , Cheng Xiaoguang , Yan Dong
Published: September 2023

Objective
The aim of the study was to investigate the 3.0 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of Madelung’s deformity.
Materials and Methods
The wrist MRI scans of 19 patients clinically diagnosed with Madelung’s deformity and 20 patients without deformity were consecutively selected from Beijing Jishuitan Hospital between April 2019 and December 2022 for observation, in the case group and control group, respectively.
Results
Madelung’s deformity significantly contributed to the tilt and thickening of the triangular fibrocartilage (TFC). In the case group, the tilting angle and thickness of TFC were (51.48 ± 9.78)° and (0.23 ± 0.06) cm, respectively, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001); the radial attachment of the TFC significantly shifted to the proximal side (χ2 = 39.00, p < 0.001), with a mean displacement of (0.97 ± 0.38) cm. Furthermore, the case demonstrated abnormally developed Vickers ligament (χ2 = 35.19, p < 0.001) and radiotriquetral ligament (χ2 = 25.66, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
MRI provides a notable advantage in diagnosing Madelung’s deformity. Compared with the control group, patients with Madelung's deformity exhibited thickening and tilting of the TFC. Additionally, the radial attachment of the fibrocartilage was significantly shifted to the proximal side with abnormal development of Vickers and radiotriquetral ligaments.
Comparative study of advanced exergy analysis of parabolic trough and linear Fresnel collectors
Authors: Maghsoudizadeh Mahdi , Ameri Mehran , Javaran Ebrahim Jahanshahi
Published: September 2023

Parabolic Trough collectors and Linear Fresnel reflectors are considered the most commonly used types of solar thermal systems. Numerous theoretical and practical research studies have been conducted on these collectors. The aim and the novelty of this research is to investigate and compare the performance of linear Fresnel and parabolic trough collectors from the perspective of advanced exergy analysis in order to determine the main irreversibility sources in each collector component and the potential for improving each component of the collector. The behavior of these two types of collectors in response to changes in solar radiation, collector length, flow rate, and fluid type is also analyzed. For this purpose, commercial collectors (Eurotrough ET100) and (LF-11) were selected for investigation. Simple and improved thermodynamic process methods were used to calculate the internal exergy destruction values for each component. Energy and exergy equations were solved using MATLAB software. The results indicate that the highest internal exergy destruction in both collectors is attributed to the absorber tube, but only a very small portion of it is avoidable. On the other hand, the highest avoidable internal exergy destruction occurs in the concentrator, making it the highest priority for technological improvements.
The causality between telomere length and chronic lung diseases: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Zhan Yuan , Gu Yiya , Yang Ruonan , Deng Zhesong , Chen Shanshan , Huang Qian , Wu Jixing , Chen Jinkun , Xie Jungang
Published: September 2023

Background
Previous studies have observed the abnormality in telomere biology and function during the process of chronic lung diseases (CLDs). However, whether alteration of telomere length (TL) causally facilitates the incidence of CLDs remains to be determined. Therefore, we here aim to estimate the causal effect of TL on the risk of CLDs using mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Methods
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) strongly associated with TL and CLDs were selected as genetic variables from the genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A bidirectional two-sample MR analysis primarily based on inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was then conducted to infer the causality between TL and CLDs. Cochran’s Q test and MR-Egger regression analysis were performed to assess the heterogeneity and pleiotropy, and leave-one-out analysis was tested to determine the stability of MR results.
Results
The forward MR analysis indicated that among non-neoplastic CLDs, elevated TL was causally related to reduced risk of asthma (OR = 0.9986, 95%CI 0.9972–0.9999, P = 0.035), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR = 0.9987, 95%CI 0.9975–0.9999, P = 0.040), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) (OR = 0.9971, 95%CI 0.9961–0.9980, P < 0.001), and sarcoidosis (OR = 0.6820, 95%CI 0.5236–0.8884, P = 0.005). For neoplastic CLDs, increased TL genetically predicted higher risk of non-small cell lung cancer (OR = 1.8485, 95%CI 1.4074–2.4279, P < 0.001) and lung adenocarcinoma (OR = 1.9636, 95%CI 1.2275–3.1412, P = 0.005). However, there presented no significant causality between TL and pulmonary arterial hypertension, pneumoconiosis, small cell lung cancer and squamous cell lung cancer. Moreover, reverse MR analysis all showed no obvious causalities of CLDs with TL, except for sarcoidosis (OR = 0.9936, 95%CI 0.9887–0.9984, P = 0.010). Sensitivity analyses suggested the robustness of MR results with no horizonal pleiotropy despite of partial heterogeneity in reverse MR analysis.
Conclusions
Our study demonstrates that TL is causally associated with decreased risk of several non-neoplastic CLDs (asthma, COPD and IPF), whereas associated with increased risk of non-small cell lung cancer (especially adenocarcinoma). There’s mutual causality between TL attrition and sarcoidosis onset. This study comprehensively elucidated the causal associations between TL and CLDs, and might provide a promising target for the prevention of these CLDs.
The influence of widowhood and social engagement on cognitive impairment among Chinese older adults: mediation relations explored
Authors: Sheng Mingyuan , Young Kathleen , Ying Li , Zhang Yeyuan , Wang Jiale , Jiang Shuhan
Published: September 2023

Background:
The transition from marriage to widowhood involves an unavoidable role adjustment, which is one of the most traumatic and difficult life experiences for older adults. Studies on the impact of widowhood on cognitive impairment in later life continue to be explored and assessed, however, most of these studies have taken place in the United States and Europe. Although there are several studies focusing on the Chinese population, the role of how lifestyle changes after widowhood in this relationship are less studied. The objective of this study was to explore the mediating role of social engagement, health behaviors, and subjective well-being underlying the association between widowhood and cognitive impairment.
Method:
This study was conducted with 7,796 older individuals from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy and Longevity Study (2018). We employed logistic regression models to analyze the effect of widowhood situation effect on cognitive health among older adults, and designed a mediation analysis to determine this possible mediator role.
Results:
The results showed widows and widowers had a much higher risk of having cognitive impairment than married older adults (95%CI = 1.312,2.279). The results from SEM provided a good fit to the observed data (χ2 = 24.909, p = 0.003, CMIN/DF = 2.768, CFI = 0.996, TLI = 0.986, RMSEA = 0.015, RMR = 0.007 and SRMR = 0.010)and indicated the effect of widowhood on cognitive impairment was partially mediated by social engagement, lifestyle behaviors and subjective-wellbeing (β = 0.075,p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
This study contributes to the existing knowledge on the mechanisms underlying the association between widowhood and cognitive impairment among older individuals. Consequently, it is imperative to formulate policies that cater to the distinct requirements of this vulnerable population, encompassing the maintenance of social interaction, adoption of a healthy lifestyle, enhancement of subjective well-being, and provision of necessary support systems.
Causal Association Between Multiple Sclerosis and Psoriasis: A Genetic Correlation and Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: ZHOU HAO , Qi Yajie , Qi Hui
Published: September 2023

Observational studies found a potential bidirectional positive association between multiple sclerosis and psoriasis, but are susceptible to confounding factors. We examined the directionality of causation using Mendelian randomization and estimated the genetic correlation using the linkage disequilibrium score. we performed Mendelian randomization analysis using large-scale genome-wide association studies datasets from the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium (IMSGC, 115,803 individuals of European ancestry) and FINNGEN Consortium (252,323 individuals of European ancestry). We selected several Mendelian randomization methods including Causal Analysis Using Summary Effect (CAUSE), inverse variance-weighted (IVW), and pleiotropy-robust methods. CAUSE and IVW indicated that MS reduces the risk of psoriasis (CAUSE OR = 0.93, p = 0.045; IVW OR = 0.93, p = 2.51×10− 20), or vice versa (CAUSE OR = 0.72, p = 0.001; IVW OR = 0.71, p = 4.80×10− 26). Pleiotropy-robust methods with all p-values < 0.05. The linkage disequilibrium score showed no genetic correlation between psoriasis and MS (rg = − 0.071, P = 0.2852). In summary, we provide genetic evidence that MS reduces the risk of psoriasis, and vice versa.
Changing Trends in HIV Prevalence and Risk Factors Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Mozambique: Implications for Targeted Interventions and Public Health Strategies
Authors: Banze Auria Ribeiro , Muleia Rachid , Nuvunga Samuel , Boothe Makini , Baltazar Cynthia Semá
Published: September 2023

Background: Men who have sex with Men (MSM) are known to contribute to increased HIV prevalence as an integral part of key populations with high vulnerability to HIV/AIDS due to their sexual behaviours and lifestyles. Mozambique conducted two rounds of bio-behavioral surveys (BBS) in this population with the main objective of estimating HIV prevalence and associated risk behaviors among MSM in Mozambique. The present study aims to estimate the trend of HIV prevalence and determine the correlations of HIV infection among MSM.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from secondary data from the first and second rounds of BBS in Mozambique conducted in 2011-2012 and 2020-2021 respectively. Each round used a similar methodology which allowed for comparison between the two surveys. Chi-square test and logistic regression was used to compare the HIV prevalence between the BBS round, identify factors associated with HIV and assess the evolution of HIV prevalence across selected risk factors.
Results: There was a significant increase in HIV prevalence among MSM (7.1% to 14.9%), living in Maputo (9.3% to 14.7%), uncircumcised (11.7% to 25.1%), and those who reported two sexual partners in the last year (5.2% to 14.4%). In contrast, there was a decrease in prevalence among adult men aged between 25 and 29 years (4.7% to 13.9%), aged 30 years or older (45.7% to 27.7%), married (29.1% to 16.8%), with higher education (16.7% to 5.9%) and moderate perception of HIV risk (10.9% to 3.4%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that factors such as age, marital status, religion, sexual identity, circumcision, and the use of lubrication during anal sex had significant effects on the risk of HIV infection.
Conclusions: This study underscores the continuing need for HIV prevention and education efforts. The rise in prevalence among specific population segments and the sustained presence of risk factors emphasize the requirement for holistic strategies tailored to the unique requirements of each subgroup. Understanding trends and risk factors is crucial to guiding public health policies and designing efficacious prevention programs that aim to curtail HIV transmission while enhancing the well-being of those impacted by the condition.