bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Candidate Genes for Twinning Births in Dezhou Donkeys by Detecting Signatures of Selection in Genomic Data
Authors: Xie Taifeng , Zhang Shuer , Shen Wei , Zhang Guoliang , Guo Rong , Zhang Wei , Cao Yanhang , Pan Qingjie , Liu Fengxin , Sun Yujiang , Liu Shuqin
Published: October 2022

Twinning trait in donkeys is an important manifestation of high fecundity, but few reports are available elucidating its genetic mechanism. To explore the genetic mechanism underlying the twin colt trait in Dezhou donkeys, DNA from 21 female Dezhou donkeys that had birthed single or twin colts were collected for whole-genome resequencing. FST, θπ and Tajima’s D were used to detect the selective sweeps between single and twin colt fecundity in the Dezhou donkey groups. Another set of 20 female Dezhou donkeys with single or multiple follicles during estrus were selected to compare concentrations of reproductive hormone including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). Four candidate genes including ENO2, PTPN11, SOD2 and CD44 were identified in the present study. The CD44 gene had the highest FST value, and ENO2, PTPN11 and SOD2 were screened by two joint analyses (FST and θπ, θπ and Tajima’s D). There was no significant difference in the LH, FSH and P4 levels between the two groups (p > 0.05); however, the serum E2 content in the multi-follicle group was significantly higher than that in the single-follicle group (p < 0.05). The identified candidate genes may provide new insights into the genetic mechanism of donkey prolificacy and may be useful targets for further research on high reproductive efficiency.
Comparison of Geogases in Two Cenozoic Sedimentary Basins
Authors: Berberich Gabriele M. , Berberich Martin B.
Published: October 2022

We investigated fault gases (helium, radon, CO2) in two seismically active Cenozoic sedimentary basins: (a) Meinweg (in 2015), at a tectonically quiescent horst structure in the Lower Rhine Embayment; and (b) Bodanrück (in 2012; Lake of Constance), in the Molasse Basin and part of the seismically active Freiburg–Bonndorf–Bodensee Fault Zone (FBBFZ). Both study areas were selected because recent “GeoBio-Interactions” findings showed that red wood ants (RWA) are biological indicators of otherwise undetected degassing systems. We combined presence/absence data of RWA nests, their spatial pattern analysis (prototype lines), seismicity and known tectonic settings with soil gas analyses (a total of 817 samples) to unveil geochemical anomalies related to tectonic developments unknown so far. Currently, Meinweg can be considered “no ants land” due to the very low background-level of geogas concentrations. Thus, anomalies (Rn-CO2) weakly trending in NE-SW extension direction emerged. This could probably indicate the onset of (re)activation of the NE-SW-trending (Variscan) structures or the development of new fractures as an aftershock process of the 1992 Roermond earthquake that occurred about 15 km to the west. Results at Bodanrück (three RWA clusters and two RWA-free corridors) revealed degassing patterns in NW-SE and NNE-SSW directions in the clusters corresponding to re-activated and recent strike-slip fault systems. No gas anomalies were found in RWA-free corridors. The RWA nest distribution was shown to be a valuable tool for identifying areas of even actively degassing spotty anomalies caused by macro- and microscale brittle deformation masked by sediment cover.
The Effect of Learning Burnout on Sleep Quality in Primary School Students: The Mediating Role of Mental Health
Authors: Qin Lulu , Chen Si , Luo Bangan , Chen Yiwei
Published: October 2022

Due to the growth of research on sleep, mental health, and learning burnout on healthy growth and its related public health significance of adolescents, this study aimed to provide a deeper understanding of the effect of mental health and learning burnout on sleep among primary school students. The sleep quality (subjective sleep quality, sleep time, sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbance, and daytime dysfunction), mental health, and learning burnout (exhaustion, learning cynicism, and reduced efficacy) of 900 students of grades 3–6 in primary schools were assessed in 2020. The PSQI scores of participants were 4.19 ± 2.545, of which a number of 322 (39.03%) students had sleep disturbance (PSQI scores ≧ 5). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that screen time (OR = 1.518, 95% CI: 1.164–1.980), ranking status (OR = 0.659, 95% CI: 0.480–0.907), learning burnout (OR = 1.088, 95% CI: 1.067–1.108), and mental health (OR = 4.672, 95% CI: 1.954–11.173) were the influencing factors for sleep quality of grade 3–6 students. According to the mediation effect analyses, mental health played a mediating effect (58.73% of the total effect) on the relationship between learning burnout and sleep quality. In conclusion, primary school students in Hunan of China have prominent sleep problems, and the daytime dysfunction caused by sleep problems is the most serious. Learning burnout positively predicted poorer sleep quality, and mental health played a mediating effect on the relationship between learning burnout and sleep quality.
A Long-Term National Survey of Compliance with the Ban on Selling Tobacco Products to Adolescents of Taiwan’s Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act
Authors: Li Shan-Ru , Chiu Yu-Lung , Lai Ching-Huang , Tzeng Ya-Mei , Lai Yi-Yin , Liao Wan-Lu , Chang Kuei-Chia , Wu Rong-Dar , Lei Li-Fen , Huang I-Teng , Kao Senyeong
Published: October 2022

The data on long-term trends and factors of tobacco retailers’ compliance in Taiwan are limited. The new regulations of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act were established in 2009. Now, the government is planning to raise the minimum legal age (MLA) for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 20, so the results of this study will be an important reference to promote new regulations in the future. We carried out an observational mystery shopping study design and data were collected from 2009 to 2019. In total, 6320 undercover tests were conducted to investigate selling by tobacco retailers to persons aged less than 18 years by an impartial third party annually. Logistic regression was used to analyze the factors influencing compliance by adjusting test variables and independent variables. The compliance rate increased by 8.4% annually and was better among tests conducted during summer vacation (AOR = 1.324), chain convenience stores (AOR = 3.651), supermarkets or hypermarkets (AOR = 1.973), and verifications with age (AOR = 15.345). It is the first study to explore long-term and national tobacco retailers’ enforcement effects by an impartial third party in Asia. The findings suggest that local health agencies should enhance enforcement on those stores which were tested during non-summer holidays and weekends, betel nut stands, and grocery stores.
Analysis of Antidepressants Utilization for Patients Visiting Psychiatric Out-Patient Clinic in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Mehdi Seema , Manohar Kishor , Shariff Atiqulla , Wani Shahid Ud Din , Almuqbil Mansour , Alshehri Sultan , Shakeel Faiyaz , Imam Mohammad T. , Krishna Kamsagara L.
Published: October 2022

Depression is a prevalent mental health condition treated with antidepressants and other psychotropic medications. This study aimed to assess the utilization pattern of antidepressants among patients visiting the outpatient clinic of the psychiatry department of a tertiary care hospital. The study included the patients who visited the study site and fulfilled the mental and behavioral diagnostic criteria for depression. The demographic and clinical details, including drugs prescribed, were documented in a study-specific data collection form. The ratio of Prescribed Daily Dose to Defined Daily Dose (PDD: DDD) was calculated to assess the adequacy of antidepressant utilization. Data total of 154 patients were collected. A total of 22 psychotropic drugs were used among the study patients as mono (n = 70), dual (n = 69), triple (n = 10), or quadruple therapy (n = 1). Escitalopram was the most often prescribed antidepressant out of the nine antidepressants alone and in combination and was used in slightly high doses (PDD: DDD ratio 1.6). Sertraline, paroxetine, and desvenlafaxine, were used in adequate doses (PDD: DDD between 1 and 1.1), and fluoxetine, duloxetine, amitriptyline, imipramine, and mirtazapine, were used in inadequate doses (PDD: DDD <0.5). Our study findings reveal the need for continuous assessment of antidepressants medications usage in a hospital set up.
Fibroid Removal after Myomectomy: An Overview on the Problems of Power Morcellation
Authors: Sparić Radmila , Andjić Mladen , D’Oria Ottavia , Babović Ivana , Milovanović Zagorka , Panese Gaetano , Licchelli Martina , Tomašević Đina , Morciano Andrea , Tinelli Andrea
Published: October 2022

The authors reviewed uterine fibroid (UF) morcellation and its potential consequences, notably a hypothetical spread and dissemination of occult uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) tissue, evaluating the effect of laparoscopic versus open myomectomies with and without morcellation on patients’ outcomes, as well as related medical-legal issues. MEDLINE and PubMed search was performed for the years 1990–2021, using a combination of keywords on this topic. Relevant articles were identified and included in this narrative review. There is an individual risk, for all patients, for LMS diagnosis after myomectomy. However, the risk for occult LMS diagnosis during a laparoscopic myomectomy is generally reduced when the guidelines of scientific societies are followed, with an overall benefit from the laparoscopic approach with morcellation in appropriate cases. Gynecological societies do not ban morcellation and laparoscopic hysterectomy/myomectomy per se, but recommend their use on the basis of the patients’ clinical characteristics. It is suggested for gynecologists to provide detailed information to patients when obtaining an informed consent for open or laparoscopic hysterectomy/myomectomy. A detailed preoperative assessment of patients and the risk benefit ratio of laparoscopic morcellation of uterine mass could overcome the “a priori” banning of the morcellation technique.
Groundwater Temperature Modelling at the Water Table with a Simple Heat Conduction Model
Authors: Pekárová Pavla , Tall Andrej , Pekár Ján , Vitková Justína , Miklánek Pavol
Published: October 2022

This study aimed at the analysis and modelling of the groundwater temperature at the water table in different regions of Slovakia. In the first part, the analysis of the long-term trends of air and soil/ground temperature to a depth of 10 m is presented. The average annual soil/groundwater temperatures at different depths were the same but lower than the annual average air temperature by about 0.8 °C. The long-term trend analysis of the air temperature and soil temperature at a depth of up to 10 m in Slovakia showed that the air and soil/ground water temperature have risen by 0.6 and 0.5 °C, respectively, per decade over the past 30 years. The second part of the study aimed at modelling the daily groundwater temperatures at depths of 0.6–15 m below the surface. The simple groundwater temperature model was constructed based on a one-dimensional differential Fourier heat conduction equation. The given model can be used to estimate future groundwater temperature trends using regional air temperature projections calculated for different greenhouse gas emission scenarios.
Comparative Review of Environmental Audit Tools for Public Open Spaces from the Perspective of Children’s Activity
Authors: Meng Xue , Wang Mohan
Published: October 2022

Public open spaces are important venues for children’s participation in outdoor activities and social life. This study performs a comparative and qualitative review of the tools that can be used to audit the environments of children-focused public open spaces. The analysis reviews 25 studies involving 11 tools for comparison. The results reveal that (1) the tools were developed in different fields; (2) the tools use two data resources, field investigation and geographic databases; (3) the tool dimensions are diverse, as are the number of items covered, and are generally related to four categories: surrounding environment and accessibility, activity and perceived safety, children’s sports and play opportunities, and aesthetic and comfort of the environment; (4) the reliability of most tools has been verified, with some validity still to be confirmed; (5) there are differences in tool users, settings, and aims. Among the tools, the CPAT and the EAPRS are the most comprehensive. Comparative analysis of the tools provides a reference for studies on children-focused public open spaces and for the development and improvement of corresponding tools in the future.
Effect of Travel Expenditure on Life Satisfaction for Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Korea: Moderating Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Moon Joonho , Lee Won Seok , Shim Jimin
Published: October 2022

The aim of this research was to examine the effects of travel expenditures on life satisfaction in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the research, a curvilinear relationship was established between life satisfaction and travel expenditures that was then compared between 2018 and 2020. The study subjects were middle-aged and older adults who completed the 2018 and 2020 waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. Demographic, travel expenditure, and life satisfaction data were collected, and quadratic regression analysis was conducted to examine the effects of travel expenditures on life satisfaction before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first-order condition was computed to determine the optimal level of travel expenditures to maximize life satisfaction, and the results exhibit that the utility of travel expenditure decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Polydrug Definition and Assessment: The State of the Art
Authors: Font-Mayolas Sílvia , Calvo Fran
Published: October 2022

Polydrug use is a very common phenomenon and represents an important public health problem. The definition of the term has varied since its inception, and consequently so have forms of self-report evaluation. The aim of this review is to offer an overview of how the concept has evolved and its forms of evaluation through self-reporting. A search of the term polydrug was conducted on the PubMed portal up to August 2022, with a total of 2076 publications detected containing the word polydrug in their title, abstract or keywords. This includes publications that represent an advance in the definition and assessment of this construct through self-reports, which may be useful for researchers carrying out future studies in the field. The importance of distinguishing between concurrent and simultaneous polydrug use and the need to employ comparable measures in parameters for the frequency, magnitude and combination of psychoactive substances involved in polydrug use are two of the main recommendations emerging from this review.
An Explanatory Model of Sport Motivation, Physical Self-Concept and Anxiety as a Function of the Degree of Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Future Physical Education Teachers
Authors: Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo , Puertas-Molero Pilar , González-Valero Gabriel , Alonso-Vargas José Manuel
Published: October 2022

The present research has the objectives of establishing the relationship between motivational climate towards sport, anxiety, and physical self-concept, and identifying the existing relationships between anxiety, motivational climate, and physical self-concept, broken down into (a) developing an explanatory model of the motivational climate towards sport and its relationship with anxiety and physical self-concept, and (b) contrasting the structural model by means of a multi-group analysis according to the degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A quantitative, comparative, non-experimental (ex post facto), cross-sectional study was carried out with a total sample of 556 participants (23.06 ± 6.23). The instruments used were an ad hoc questionnaire and the Spanish versions of the Perceived Motivational Climate in Sport Questionnaire 2, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Self-Concept Form-5, and the PREDIMED questionnaire. The data reveal that participants who show high adherence to the Mediterranean diet attain higher scores on physical self-concept and anxiety, as well as ego-climate. As a conclusion, it is observed that participants who show a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet show higher scores in physical self-concept and anxiety, as well as in all the variables that make up the ego-climate.
The Association between Ambient PM2.5 and Low Birth Weight in California
Authors: Lee Jasmine , Costello Sadie , Balmes John R. , Holm Stephanie M.
Published: October 2022

Previous studies have shown associations between air pollutants and low birth weight. However, few studies assess whether poverty and race/ethnicity are effect modifiers for this relationship. We used publicly available data on 7785 California census tracts from the California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool (CalEnviroScreen). Multivariable linear regression was used to examine the association between outdoor PM2.5 and low birth weight (LBW), including stratification by poverty and race/ethnicity (as a proxy for experienced racism). A 1 µg m−3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with a 0.03% (95% CI: 0.01, 0.04) increase in the percentage of LBW infants in a census tract. The association between PM2.5 and LBW was stronger in census tracts with the majority living in poverty (0.06% increase; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.08) compared to those with fewer people living in poverty (0.02% increase; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.03). Our results show that exposure to outdoor PM2.5 is associated with a small increase in the percentage of LBW infants in a census tract, with a further increase in tracts with high poverty. The results for effect modification by race/ethnicity were less conclusive.
Capital Formation, Green Innovation, Renewable Energy Consumption and Environmental Quality: Do Environmental Regulations Matter?
Authors: Meng Xueying , Li Tianqing , Ahmad Mahmood , Qiao Guitao , Bai Yang
Published: October 2022

The world economy continues to witness a steady rise in carbon emissions, which makes it challenging to fulfill the terms of the Paris agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, countries worldwide enact environmental regulations to curtail environmental pollution to promote sustainable development. However, the importance of environmental regulations has not been fully validated in the previous literature. In addition, the concurrent roles of capital formation, green innovation, and renewability cannot be overlooked. Against this backdrop, this study selects data from G7 countries from 1994 to 2019 to explore the effect of environmental regulations, capital formation, green innovation, and renewable energy consumption on CO2 emissions. In order to achieve the above research objectives, we employ the Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MM-QR) for empirical analysis. The results reveal that capital formation significantly enhances environmental quality by reducing CO2 emissions across all quantiles (10th–90th). Environmental regulations show a significant and negative impact on CO2 emission mainly at the middle and higher emissions quantiles, while the effect is insignificant at lower quantiles (10th). Moreover, green innovation and renewable energy consumption mitigate CO2 emissions across all quantiles (10th–90th), while economic growth deteriorates environmental quality in G7 countries. The panel granger causality results indicate the unidirectional causality running from capital formation, environmental regulations, and renewable energy towards CO2 emissions, which implies that any policy related to these variables will Granger cause CO2 emissions but not the other way round. Based on the findings, important policy implications are proposed to promote sustainable development in G7 countries.
Factors Influencing Treatment Outcome and Proprioception after Electrocoagulation of the Femoral Insertion of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Pogorzała Adam , Kądzielawska Ewa , Kubaszewski Łukasz , Dąbrowski Mikołaj
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Studies have established that exercises shaping the sense of deep sensation are an important element of medical rehabilitation of patients after vaporization of the femoral insertion of the anterior cruciate ligament and affect the restoration of correct movement patterns, thus reducing the risk of injuries. The aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the treatment outcome and deep-feeling function after applying a specific rehabilitation scheme 12 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament electrocoagulation surgery. (2) Methods: The study group consisted of 41 patients after partial rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, who underwent electrocoagulation of the femoral cruciate ligament attachment and microfracture of the femoral attachment area. All patients were operated on by the same surgeon and then rehabilitated according to the same medical rehabilitation protocol. The anthropometric and clinical data were collected through an anterior drawer test, Lachman test, assessment of the range of movements in the knee joint, muscle strength test, Unterberger test and Lysholm questionnaire. The assessment was performed before the surgery, and then on days 7–10, after 6 and 12 weeks of rehabilitation treatment. (3) Results: Statistical improvement of the parameters was demonstrated by strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings muscle, the Unterberger test, and the Lysholm scale after surgery. A negative correlation was found between the Unterberger test and Lysholm scale at the end of the research period and it differed depending on the gender and the dominant limb. The Lysholm scale and muscle strength were independent of sex, dominant extremity and associated damage of the meniscus and cartilage. The Lysholm scale 6 weeks after surgery negatively correlated with BMI. (4) Conclusions: Stability of the knee joint and improvement of proprioception were demonstrated 12 weeks after treatment with an ACL electrocoagulation and rehabilitation regimen. The factors contributing to a better treatment outcome were greater muscle strength, less thigh asymmetry, better sense of depth, younger age and lower body weight.
GIS Based Procedural Modeling in 3D Urban Design
Authors: Zhang Ming , Wu Jielin , Liu Yang , Zhang Ji , Li Guanyao
Published: October 2022

Traditional urban design is time-consuming and laborious. We propose a computer-generated architecture (CGA)-based workflow in this work, with the goal of allowing designers to take advantage of a high level of automation. This workflow is based on procedural modeling. A three-step CGA rule was applied to implement 3D urban procedural modeling, (1) parcel subdivision and clustering, (2) building extrusion, and (3) texture mapping. Parcel subdivision and clustering is the key step of layout modeling, giving the modeler flexibility to adjust the placement and size of the inner building lots. Subsequently, a land-use-based combination of eight common building types and layouts was used to generate various urban forms for different urban functional zones. Finally, individual buildings were decorated by creating texture maps of a planar section of the building facade or, alternatively, decomposing facades into sets of repeating elements and texture maps. We employed the proposed workflow in the H-village urban redevelopment program and an air–rail integration zone development program in Guangzhou. Three design proposals were generated for each project. The results demonstrated that this workflow could generate multiple layout proposals and alternative facade textures quickly and, therefore, address most of the collaborative issues with its analysis functions, including a flexible adjustment mechanism and real-time visualization.
Dynamic Soil Structure Interaction of a High-Rise Building Resting over a Finned Pile Mat
Authors: Bariker Pankaj , Kolathayar Sreevalsa
Published: October 2022

High-rise building safety is generally supported by pile-mat systems. They must be sturdy enough to withstand potential lateral loads brought on by earthquakes, wind, dredging, and machine vibrations, in addition to increased axial loads. An innovative piled-mat foundation system is required to deal with these impacts because standard pile foundation systems only have lateral capacities that are 10% of their axial capacities. This study aims to reduce the damage caused by seismic impacts on high-rise buildings using shear walls supported by piled mats, thereby minimizing vibrations within the structure. Compared with conventional pile systems, the finned-pile foundation is a proven method that can withstand a 65% to 80% higher lateral load; hence, a series of SSI analyses were performed on a 25-story high-rise building, with the shear wall resting on a finned-pile mat (FP-Mat), under a far-field earthquake excitation, using ABAQUS software. The seismic responses were studied by performing a time–history analysis on the FP-Mat, with varying fin-lengths (Lf) of 0.2Lp, 0.4Lp, 0.6Lp, and 0.8Lp, which was compared with an analysis of a conventional piled-mat (RP-Mat). The seismic responses for RP-Mat and FP-Mats were studied with peak-acceleration, maximum horizontal displacement, and inter-story drifts acting as the damage parameters. The provision of FP-Mats significantly reduced the vibrations and seismic effects on the building, and as the fin-length increased, the vibrations and seismic effects reduced further. The drifting bound was also reduced as the fin-length increased. The optimum fin-length for FP-Mats is suggested to be 0.6Lp in terms of seismic performance and construction efficiency. This study helps one understand the seismic behaviors of high-rise buildings resting on finned pile mats.
Revision of the Assassin Bug Genus Sigicoris stat. nov. Based on Morphological Study and Molecular Phylogeny (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Peiratinae)
Authors: Liu Yingqi , Li Hu , Cai Wanzhi
Published: October 2022

Peiratinae is a cosmopolitan subfamily within Reduviidae with more than 300 known species in 34 genera. There are also some taxa endemic to islands, but their taxonomic status and biology require further study. After examining type specimens of the peiratine species distributed in New Guinea, we found that some of them share many morphological characters, though they were previously assigned in different genera. The phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome oxidase I, 16S ribosomal RNA and 18S ribosomal RNA genes involving 38 species in 25 genera also supports the result of the morphological study that these species should be involved in a separate genus. In the present study, the subgenus Ectomocoris (Sigicoris) Miller, 1958 is elevated to genus level, Sigicoris stat. nov. Three new combinations, S. brumalis comb. nov., S. gracilis comb. nov., S. sexguttatus comb. nov. and one new species, S. dominiqueae sp. nov. are described or redescribed. The lectotype of Brachysandalus sexguttatus is designated, and Pirates concinnus syn. nov. is treated as the junior synonym of S. sexguttatus comb. nov. A key is provided to separate the four species of this genus. The systematic relationships, diagnosis, distribution and habitat of Sigicoris stat. nov. are briefly discussed.
Laboratory Evaluation of Storage Bags for Infestations in Wheat Caused by Rhyzopertha dominica F. (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) and Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) and Their Control Using Phosphine Fumigation
Authors: Waheed Hafiz Waqas , Hassan Muhammad Waqar , Sarwar Ghulam , Jamil Moazzam
Published: October 2022

Bag storage of wheat is common in Asian countries, and common types of such bags include jute bags, woven plastic bags, and hermetic plastic bags. In order to assess infestation by two serious pests, namely Rhyzopertha dominica (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) and Trogoderma granarium (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in these bags, two experiments were performed. In the first experiment, three popular wheat varieties, namely Akbar, Dilkash, and Bakhar star were filled in above-mentioned miniature-size bags which were then placed in jars with three replicates per bag type and variety. Forty insects (adults for R. dominica and larvae for T. granarium) were released in the center of the jars for a period of 30 d in two different setups for both species. Data were recorded twice: after 15 d and 30 d. Results showed insects entered the jute bags only (made invasions due to its loose fibers and openings). Inside the bags, R. dominica caused more weight loss and live insects in Dilkash and Akbar varieties, while T. granarium preferred Bakhar star and Dilkash compared with their third variety. In the second experiment, only two bags, namely woven plastic bags and hermetic plastic bags filled with one variety, were tested to check damage (penetrations because no openings are present in these bags as in jute bags) to the bags. Results showed both species created holes in woven plastic bags but not in hermetic plastic bags. These results showed hermetic plastic bags remained safe from external infestation compared with the other two bags. Sometimes if insects are already present in the grains inside the bags, fumigation is needed from outside to kill the pests inside. To evaluate this, all three bags were filled with a wheat variety and were also infested with both insect species and placed in a fumigation container with nine replicates per bag type. A phosphine tablet (3.0 g) wrapped in muslin cloth was placed in a container which was then sealed, and the fumigation-induced mortality after 24 h was recorded. Results showed mortality was >95% to 100% in woven and jute bags, respectively, while mortality in hermetic plastic bags remained very low (<3%). These results revealed the least fumigant gas permeation in hermetic plastic bags compared with jute and woven plastic bags. Results of all three experiments demand immediate alteration in creation of all three bags to curtail infestation from outside (jute and woven plastic bags) as well as to generate maximum fumigation efficacy when the source of infestation is with the grains (hermetic bags).
The Dysfunctional Right Ventricle in Dilated Cardiomyopathies: Looking from the Right Point of View
Authors: Iovănescu Maria L. , Florescu Diana R. , Marcu Andreea S. , Donoiu Ionuț , Militaru Sebastian , Florescu Cristina , Istrătoaie Octavian , Militaru Constantin
Published: October 2022

Dilated cardiomyopathies (DCMs) are a heterogenous group of primary myocardial diseases, representing one of the leading causes of heart failure, and the main indication for heart transplantation. While the degree of left ventricular dilation and dysfunction are two key determinants of adverse outcomes in DCM patients, right ventricular (RV) remodeling and dysfunction further negatively influence patient prognosis. Consequently, RV functional assessment and diagnosing RV involvement by using an integrative approach based on multimodality imaging is of paramount importance in the evaluation of DCM patients and provides incremental prognostic and therapeutic information. Transthoracic echocardiography remains the first-line imaging modality used for the assessment of the RV, and newer techniques such as speckle-tracking and three-dimensional echocardiography significantly improve its diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. Nonetheless, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is considered the gold standard imaging modality for the evaluation of RV size and function, and all DCM patients should be evaluated by CMR at least once. Accordingly, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomy and function of the RV, and the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and prognostic value of RV dysfunction in DCM patients, based on traditional and novel imaging techniques.
Comprehensive Analysis of a Novel Immune-Related Gene Signature in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Feng Hongxiang , Liang Chaoyang , Shi Yuhui , Liu Deruo , Zhang Jin , Zhang Zhenrong
Published: October 2022

Lung cancer is the major cause of cancer-related deaths around the world. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), the most common subtype of lung cancer, contributed to the majority of mortalities and showed different clinical outcomes in prognosis. Tumor-infiltrated immune cells at the tumor site are associated with better survival and immunotherapy response. Thus, it is essential to further investigate the molecular mechanisms and new prognostic biomarkers of lung adenocarcinoma development and progression. In this study, a six-gene signature (CR2, FGF5, INSL4, RAET1L, AGER, and TNFRSF13C) was established to predict the prognosis of LUAD patients, as well as predictive value. The prognostic risk model was also significantly associated with the infiltration of immune cells in LUAD microenvironments. To sum up, a novel immune-related six-gene signature (CR2, FGF5, INSL4, RAET1L, AGER, and TNFRSF13C) was identified that could predict LUAD survival and is highly related to B cells and dendritic cells, which may provide a theoretical basis of personalized treatment for targeted immunotherapy.
Pregnancy and Prenatal Management of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Cera Gianluca , Locantore Pietro , Novizio Roberto , Maggio Ettore , Ramunno Vittoria , Corsello Andrea , Policola Caterina , Concolino Paola , Paragliola Rosa Maria , Pontecorvi Alfredo
Published: October 2022

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive diseases that may cause cortisol insufficiency together with other hormonal alterations. The most common form is 21-hydroxylase deficiency, in which the lack of pituitary negative feedback causes an increase in ACTH and adrenal androgens. Classical forms of CAHs can lead to severe adrenal failure and female virilization. To date, the appropriate management of pregnant CAH patients is still debated regarding appropriate maternal therapy modifications during pregnancy and the risks and benefits of prenatal treatment of the fetus. We conducted a literature search of relevant papers to collect current evidence and experiences on the topic. The most recent and significant articles were selected, and current international guidelines were consulted to update current recommendations and guide clinical practice. Given the lack of randomized clinical trials and other high-quality scientific evidence, the issue is still debated, and great heterogeneity exists in current practice in terms of risk/benefit evaluation and pharmacological choices for pregnancy and prenatal treatment. Glucocorticoid therapy is advised not only in classical CAH patients but also in non-classical, milder forms. The choice of which glucocorticoid to use, and the safety and benefits of dexamethasone therapy aimed at preventing genital virilization are still debated issues. Several advances, however, have been made, especially in terms of fertility and reproduction. This review aims to present the most recent scientific and real-world updates on pregnancy and prenatal management of CAH, with the presentation of various clinical scenarios and specific case-by-case recommendations.
Knee Cartilage Change within 5 Years after Aclr Using Hamstring Tendons with Preserved Tibial-Insertion: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Liu Shaohua , Sun Yaying , Xie Yuxue , Chen Jiwu
Published: October 2022

Background: Comparing to anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions (ACLR) with free hamstring tendon (FHT), ACLR with preserved tibial-insertion hamstring tendon (HT-PTI) could ensure the blood supply of the graft and avoid graft necrosis. Yet, whether HT-PTI could protect the cartilage and clinical outcomes in mid-long period after ACLR was still unclear. Purpose: To compare the cartilage change and clinical results between the HT-PTI and FHT in 5 years after ACLR. Study design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 45 patients who underwent isolated ACLR with the autograft of hamstring tendons were enrolled and randomized into 2 groups. The study group undertook ACLR with HT-PTI, whereas the control group had FHT. At pre-operation, and 6, 12, 24, and 60 months post-operation, all cases underwent evaluation with Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and MR examination. The knee cartilage was divided into 8 sub-regions of which the T2 value and cartilage volume on MRI were measured and documented. The data of two groups were compared and their correlations were analyzed. Results: A total of 18 patients in the HT-PTI group and 19 patients in the FHT group completed the follow-up. The KOOS scores were improved at each follow-up time point (p < 0.001), reached the most superior at 12 months and maintained until 60 months but had no significant difference between the two groups. At 60 months, the cartilage in most subregions in FHT group had higher T2 values than those of pre-operation (p < 0.05) and also higher than HT-PTI group; The cartilage volume changes (CV%) are positive at 6 months and negative from 12 to 60 months in the FHT group, while being negative at all time points in the HT-PTI group. The values of absolute CV% in most subregions in FHT group were significantly higher than those in the HT-PTI group at 6 and 60 months (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The improvement of KOOS score peaked at 12 months in all cases and had no difference between the two groups. The cartilage in the FHT group had more volume loss, earlier and wider damage than that in the HT-PTI group within 5 years. No significant correlation was found among KOOS score, CV%, and T2 value.
Acute Changes in Serum Creatinine and Kinetic Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimation in Early Phase of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Dumnicka Paulina , Mazur-Laskowska Małgorzata , Ceranowicz Piotr , Sporek Mateusz , Kolber Witold , Tisończyk Joanna , Kuźniewski Marek , Maziarz Barbara , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata
Published: October 2022

In patients with acutely changing kidney function, equations used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) must be adjusted for dynamic changes in the concentrations of filtration markers (kinetic eGFR, KeGFR). The aim of our study was to evaluate serum creatinine-based KeGFR in patients in the early phase of acute pancreatitis (AP) as a marker of changing renal function and as a predictor of AP severity. We retrospectively calculated KeGFR on day 2 and 3 of the hospital stay in a group of 147 adult patients admitted within 24 h from the onset of AP symptoms and treated in two secondary-care hospitals. In 34 (23%) patients, changes in serum creatinine during days 1–3 of the hospital stay exceeded 26.5 µmol/L; KeGFR values almost completely differentiated those with increasing and decreasing serum creatinine (area under receiver operating characteristic curve, AUROC: 0.990 on day 3). In twelve (8%) patients, renal failure was diagnosed during the first three days of the hospital stay according to the modified Marshall scoring system, which was associated with significantly lower KeGFR values. KeGFR offered good diagnostic accuracy for renal failure (area under receiver operating characteristic—AUROC: 0.942 and 0.950 on days 2 and 3). Fourteen (10%) patients developed severe AP. KeGFR enabled prediction of severe AP with moderate diagnostic accuracy (AUROC: 0.788 and 0.769 on days 2 and 3), independently of age, sex, comorbidities and study center. Lower KeGFR values were significantly associated with mortality. Significant dynamic changes in renal function are common in the early phase of AP. KeGFR may be useful in the assessment of kidney function in AP and the prediction of AP severity.
Knowing the Enemy Is Halfway towards Victory: A Scoping Review on Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia
Authors: Sampaio-Cunha Tiago J. , Martins Isabel
Published: October 2022

Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a paradoxical effect of opioids that is not consensually recognized in clinical settings. We conducted a revision of clinical and preclinical studies and discuss them side by side to provide an updated and renewed view on OIH. We critically analyze data on the human manifestations of OIH in the context of chronic and post-operative pain. We also discuss how, in the context of cancer pain, though there are no direct evidence of OIH, several inherent conditions to the tumor and chemotherapy provide a substrate for the development of OIH. The review of the clinical data, namely in what concerns the strategies to counter OIH, emphasizes how much OIH rely mechanistically on the existence of µ-opioid receptor (MOR) signaling through opposite, inhibitory/antinociceptive and excitatory/pronociceptive, pathways. The rationale for the maladaptive excitatory signaling of opioids is provided by the emerging growing information on the functional role of alternative splicing and heteromerization of MOR. The crossroads between opioids and neuroinflammation also play a major role in OIH. The latest pre-clinical data in this field brings new insights to new and promising therapeutic targets to address OIH. In conclusion, although OIH remains insufficiently recognized in clinical practice, the appropriate diagnosis can turn it into a treatable pain disorder. Therefore, in times of scarce alternatives to opioids to treat pain, mainly unmanageable chronic pain, increased knowledge and recognition of OIH, likely represent the first steps towards safer and efficient use of opioids as analgesics.
Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy Mid-Term Oncologic Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vartolomei Mihai Dorin , Remzi Mesut , Fajkovic Harun , Shariat Shahrokh F.
Published: October 2022

Background: Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is used more and more in present days as a therapy option for surgical treatment of cT1 renal masses. Current guidelines equally recommend open (OPN), laparoscopic (LPN), or robotic partial nephrectomy (PN). The aim of this review was to analyze the most representative RAPN series in terms of reported oncological outcomes. (2) Methods: A systematic search of Webofscience, PUBMED, Clinicaltrials.gov was performed on 1 August 2022. Studies were considered eligible if they: included patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) stage T1, were prospective, used randomized clinical trials (RCT) or retrospective studies, had patients undergo RAPN with a minimum follow-up of 48 months. (3) Results: Reported positive surgical margin rates were from 0 to 10.5%. Local recurrence occurred in up to 3.6% of patients. Distant metastases were reported in up to 6.4% of patients. 5-year cancer free survival (CFS) estimates rates ranged from 86.4% to 98.4%. 5-year cancer specific survival (CSS) estimates rates ranged from 90.1% to 100%, and 5-year overall survival (OS) estimates rated ranged from 82.6% to 97.9%. (4) Conclusions: Data coming from retrospective and prospective series shows very good oncologic outcomes after RAPN. Up to now, 10-year survival outcomes were not reported. Taken together, RAPN deliver similar oncologic performance to OPN and LPN.
Evaluation of the Efficacy Duration of Topical Therapies in Eyes with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Lanza Michele , Leone Angelo , Scognamiglio Gabriele , Serra Luigi , Iodice Clemente Maria , Melillo Paolo , Simonelli Francesca
Published: October 2022

Background: To investigate the efficacy interval of the topical therapies available for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and the ocular and systemic features potentially associated. Methods: This retrospective study included 190 patients with POAG undergoing first topical therapy, throughout a follow-up of 15 years. The patients started one topical intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering drug within single molecules such betablockers, prostaglandin or dorzolamide, or fixed combinations such as betablockers + prostaglandin, betablockers + dorzolamide, or betablockers + brimonidine. Efficacy duration was measured as the time between the start of the therapy and the change due to IOP increase or visual field worsening. For each patient, ocular and systemic features and comorbidities were analysed to detect any significant correlation with the length of effectiveness of every drug used. Results: The molecules explored showed some discrepancies in terms of mean duration of efficacy; however, no significant differences were demonstrated (p > 0.05). Furthermore, when evaluating the overall cohort, no systemic or ocular features correlated significantly with the effectiveness of the molecules explored. However, the same analysis carried out upon stratifying the different groups according to the IOP-lowering drops they received, demonstrated that the drug efficacy could be influenced by several ocular and systemic features. Conclusion: Data observed in this study suggest that there is no difference in using one of the medications evaluated as first choice of treatment of POAG if the patients are accurately evaluated and the most recent guidelines are adopted.
Belt Electrode-Skeletal Muscle Electrical Stimulation in Older Hemodialysis Patients with Reduced Physical Activity: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Homma Midori , Miura Misa , Hirayama Yo , Takahashi Tamao , Miura Takahiro , Yoshida Naoki , Miyata Satoshi , Kohzuki Masahiro , Ebihara Satoru
Published: October 2022

Background: Although patients receiving hemodialysis are more likely to develop metabolic disorders and muscle weakness at an earlier stage than healthy individuals, many older dialysis patients have difficulty establishing exercise habits to prevent these problems. Therefore, we evaluated the use of belt electrode-skeletal muscle electrical stimulation (B-SES), which can stimulate a wider area than conventional electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), to examine its application and safety in older hemodialysis patients as a means to improve lower extremity function without voluntary effort. Methods: This study was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 20 older dialysis patients (>65 years old) with reduced physical activity. The control group received 12 weeks of routine care only and the intervention group received 12 weeks of B-SES during hemodialysis in addition to routine care. The primary endpoint was the 6 min walk test (6MWT) distance, while the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), body composition, Functional Independence Measure (FIM), biochemistry test, and blood pressure/pulse measurements were used as secondary endpoints. Results: As a result of the 12-week B-SES intervention, no increase in creatine kinase or C-reactive protein levels was observed after the intervention in either group, and no adverse events attributed to the B-SES intervention were observed in the intervention group. Furthermore, the intervention group showed a significant improvement in the 6MWT and SPPB scores after the intervention. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that a 12-week B-SES intervention during hemodialysis sessions safely improves 6MWT distance and SPPB scores in older patients with a reduced level of physical activity.