bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterising the outcomes, impacts and implementation challenges of advanced clinical practice roles in the UK: a scoping review
Authors: Evans Catrin , Poku Brenda , Pearce Ruth , Eldridge Jeanette , Hendrick Paul , Knaggs Roger , Blake Holly , Yogeswaran Gowsika , McLuskey John , Tomczak Philippa , Thow Ruaridh , Harris Peter , Conway Joy , Collier Richard
Published: August 2021

Objectives

In response to demographic and health system pressures, the development of non-medical advanced clinical practice (ACP) roles is a key component of National Health Service workforce transformation policy in the UK. This review was undertaken to establish a baseline of evidence on ACP roles and their outcomes, impacts and implementation challenges across the UK.

Design

A scoping review was undertaken following JBI methodological guidance.

Methods

13 online databases (Medline, CINAHL, ASSIA, Embase, HMIC, AMED, Amber, OT seeker, PsycINFO, PEDro, SportDiscus, Osteopathic Research and PenNutrition) and grey literature sources were searched from 2005 to 2020. Data extraction, charting and summary was guided by the PEPPA-Plus framework. The review was undertaken by a multi-professional team that included an expert lay representative.

Results

191 papers met the inclusion criteria (any type of UK evidence, any sector/setting and any profession meeting the Health Education England definition of ACP). Most papers were small-scale descriptive studies, service evaluations or audits. The papers reported mainly on clinical aspects of the ACP role. Most papers related to nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy and radiography roles and these were referred to by a plethora of different titles. ACP roles were reported to be achieving beneficial impacts across a range of clinical and health system outcomes. They were highly acceptable to patients and staff. No significant adverse events were reported. There was a lack of cost-effectiveness evidence. Implementation challenges included a lack of role clarity and an ambivalent role identity, lack of mentorship, lack of continuing professional development and an unclear career pathway.

Conclusion

This review suggests a need for educational and role standardisation and a supported career pathway for advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) in the UK. Future research should: (i) adopt more robust study designs, (ii) investigate the full scope of the ACP role and (iii) include a wider range of professions and sectors.
Randomised controlled trial comparing two group-based exercise programmes (team sport vs circuit training) on men’s health: study protocol
Authors: Blake Henry T , Stenner Brad J , Buckley Jonathan David , Crozier Alyson J
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Physical activity promotes physical, psychological and social health. Despite this, almost half of middle-aged (35–54 years) Australian men are insufficiently active. Exercise adherence is increased with social interaction in a group setting. Team sport can leverage the power of groups and has shown to be more intrinsically motivating than discrete exercise modes. Evaluation of the effect of team sport compared with traditional group exercise on health, particularly psychological and social health, and physical activity levels of middle-aged men is limited. This study aims to compare the effects of team sport participation and group circuit training on physical activity levels and health in insufficiently active middle-aged men.

Methods and analysis

In this parallel randomised controlled trial, n=128 men aged 35–54 years will complete a 12-week team sport or group circuit exercise programme. Participants must self-report to not be meeting Australian physical activity guidelines or participating in team sport before recruitment. Health-related quality of life, exercise motivation, psychological needs satisfaction, sleep and physical activity levels (accelerometry), blood lipids, glucose and metabolic syndrome risk score will be assessed at baseline, end of the programme and 12 weeks follow-up. Linear mixed effect models will be used.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received ethical approval from the University of South Australia’s Human Research Ethics Committee (Ethics Protocol 203274). Study results will be disseminated via publication in disciplinary-specific journals, conference presentations, and as part of a Doctoral thesis.

Trial registration number

ANCTRN12621000483853.
Retrograde thrombectomy of basilar artery thrombus through the posterior communicating artery
Authors: Kass-Hout Omar , Becske Tibor
Published: August 2021

Transcirculation thrombectomy through the communicating arteries of the circle of Willis has been previously described as a bailout in cases where direct thrombectomy is not feasible.1–3 Here we present a unique case where a retrograde thrombectomy of the proximal basilar artery was performed using the right posterior communicating artery (PCOM) in a patient with bilateral occlusions of the vertebral arteries, believed to be chronic. This was done using a quadriaxial system with multiple concentric catheters to minimize the ledge effect and achieve smooth and safe transition of the catheters from anterior to posterior circulations. A combination of stent retrieval, aspiration and balloon occlusion guide catheters helped retrieve the thrombus, while minimizing emboli in new territory (ENT). The patient had complete resolution of symptoms. The thrombus is believed to be due to stasis at the vertebrobasilar junction and competing flow, hence, the patient was started on anticoagulation. (video 1)

Video 1

Disclaimer: this video summarises a scientific article published by BMJ Publishing Group Limited (BMJ). The content of this video has not been peer-reviewed and does not constitute medical advice. Any opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors. Viewers should be aware that professionals in the field may have different opinions. BMJ does not endorse any opinions expressed or recommendations discussed. Viewers should not use the content of the video as the basis for any medical treatment. BMJ disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the content.
The correspondence between shadow and test field in a four-dimensional charged Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet black hole
Authors: Chen Deyou , Gao Chuanhong , Liu Xianming , Yu Chengye
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we investigate the photon sphere, shadow radius and quasinormal modes of a four-dimensional charged Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet black hole. The perturbation of a massless scalar field in the black hole’s background is adopted. The quasinormal modes are gotten by the 6th order WKB approximation approach and shadow radius, respectively. When the value of the Gauss–Bonnet coupling constant increase, the values of the real parts of the quasinormal modes increase and those of the imaginary parts decrease. The coincidence degrees of quasinormal modes derived by the two approaches increases with the increase of the values of the Gauss–Bonnet coupling constant and multipole number. It shows the correspondence between the shadow and test field in the four-dimensional Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet–Maxwell gravity. The radii of the photon sphere and shadow increase with the decrease of the Gauss–Bonnet coupling constant.
Elemental analysis of particles emitted from aircraft using in-vacuum PIXE
Authors: Saitoh Katsumi , Sera Koichiro , Nakazawa Koyomi , Nagafuchi Osamu
Published: August 2021

To comprehend the elemental characterization of the particles emitted from an aircraft, we performed element analysis using in-vacuum PIXE for particles emitted from the carbon disc brakes and tires in addition to the exhaust particles produced by the jet engine. As for the elemental characteristics of aircraft source particulate matter, engine reversers mainly consisted of Al, Si, Ca, and Fe, and also included Ti, Cr, Mo, and W. The disc brakes mainly contained Si, Ca, and Fe, and also contained S, K, Ti, Cr, Ni, and Cu. In tires, Na, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, and Zn were mainly found, and S, K, and Ti were also detected. Thus, there was a difference in the trace elements found in the aircraft source particulate matter. These results aid in determining the component features of particles emitted from an aircraft.
Study on positive threshold voltage shift and DC characteristics of HEMTs using gate recess technique
Authors: Lee Hsin Che , Lee Cheng-Che , Lee Hsin Jung , Lee Wei Yu , Chuang Wei Ching
Published: August 2021

In the present study, AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) were fabricated through metal–organic chemical vapor deposition. Gate recess etching, combined with inductively coupled plasma reactive ion etching, was adopted, and etching time was controlled to manipulate the threshold voltage [Formula: see text]. The DC characteristics of devices etched for 0–25 s were investigated. [Formula: see text] exhibited a 1.9-V positive shift in the device with the AlGaN layer etched for 25 s. The effect of an AlN buffer layer on the [Formula: see text] shift was also investigated. The [Formula: see text] of the HEMT etched for 25 s and without an AlN buffer layer exhibited a positive shift of 3.1 V.
Chosen applications and approaches to modeling lasers in dentistry
Authors: Mirjanić Vladan , Srećković Milesa , Mirjanić Ðorđe , Bugarinović Aleksandar , Druzijanić Dragan , Mitić Vojislav V.
Published: August 2021

Historically, although the first indications for the use of lasers in general were in dentistry, coming as a relief from the sound of the drill and mechanical contacts, it still seems somewhat that the entry in various ways of lasers in dentistry has been slower. This is somewhat true for the situation at the continents (e.g. USA much later approved the application relative to Europe). This paper analyzes the potential and existing applications of lasers in dentistry in a wide range of existing types, including interaction with dental tissues, in terms of surgical applications, on living tissue, the prosthetic area of applications and therapeutic doses. There is another special feature that can be recognized is the precise determination of the color of the material (teeth and prosthetics) and in general the determination of the composition of the material including classic, but also modern laser techniques (LIBS, complimentary techniques, tooth tissue, bone) and especially in the case of the first Q switch systems related to pain reduction, because the short pulse favors the intervention rate (ns, ps and fs). Special attention should be paid to modeling of interaction and analysis with the appropriate software support.
Bigdata Assisted Energy Conversion Model for Innovative City Application
Authors: Zhu Jie , Vadivel Thanjai , Sivaparthipan C. B.
Published: August 2021

Centrally controlled energy conversion schemes in intelligent residential microgrids are a difficult optimization challenge because of their range of processing and power devices accessible. Typical steps to shrink the weight and seriousness of the issues are decreasing modelling precision, adding several weights, or adjusting the measurement accuracy. Nevertheless, because these interventions modify the specialization issue and thus result in various approaches as expected, this article introduces a Bigdata assisted energy conversion model (BD-ECM) and evaluates a decomposition approach to solve the initial problem recursively. Compared to the initial compact version, the decayed approach is tested to demonstrate that all versions differ less than 18.8%. Moreover, both methods contribute to the use of roughly similar structures. The results reveal that because of the existing constraints on computational capital and simulation techniques, condensed development of the common law can only be extended to moderate and limited intelligent grids. However, decentralized approaches can be dealing with sizeable dispersed generation structures. To assess the month’s environmental and strategic advantages as part of the system, researchers extend the decompiled approach to a massive smart grid. The data reveal that prices can be lowered by 14.0% in local energy exchanges and pollution by 23.9% in the situation studied.
Advancing Socioeconomic Rights Through Interdisciplinary Factfinding: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Knuckey Sarah , Fisher Joshua D. , Klasing Amanda M. , Russo Tess , Satterthwaite Margaret L.
Published: August 2021

The human rights movement is increasingly using interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, mixed-methods, and quantitative factfinding. There has been too little analysis of these shifts. This article examines some of the opportunities and challenges of these methods, focusing on the investigation of socio-economic human rights. By potentially expanding the amount and types of evidence available, factfinding's accuracy and persuasiveness can be strengthened, bolstering rights claims. However, such methods can also present significant challenges and may pose risks in individual cases and to the human rights movement generally. Interdisciplinary methods can be costly in human, financial, and technical resources; are sometimes challengingto implement; may divert limited resources from other work; can reify inequalities; may produce “expertise” that disempowers rightsholders; and could raise investigation standards to an infeasible or counterproductive level. This article includes lessons learned and questions to guide researchers and human rights advocates considering mixed-methods human rights factfinding.
A Rare Case of Bilateral Achilles Tendon Xanthomas in a Teenager, Successfully Treated with Tendon Sparing Technique
Authors: Appuhamy G. A. P. K. , Munasinghe B. M. , Soysa L. M. , Nelson D. , Ranmini P. G. P. , Pavithra W. T. , Sajini W. M. , Anthony C. D. N.
Published: August 2021

Background. Xanthoma of the Achilles tendon, even though being benign, is a surgically challenging orthopaedic condition. Causality is believed to be due to a pathological error in the metabolism of low-density lipoprotein and their resultant accumulation, as foam cells within the tendon. Tendon xanthomas are often found to accompany heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Case Presentation. A 19-year-old girl presented to our institution (a District General Hospital), with soft tissue lumps over posterior aspect of the ankle on both sides for several years. She had noticed a rapid increase in size in recent 3 months and sought medical advice. During investigation, she was diagnosed having bilateral Achilles tendon xanthomas clinically, confirmed by ultrasound scan and magnetic resonance imaging, and familial hypercholesterolemia concomitantly. The former was managed with intralesion subtotal resection where the histology further confirmed the diagnosis. The patient was commenced on statins and followed up while assessing the functional outcome and recurrences up to 2 years, with favourable results. Conclusion. Subtotal resection of Achilles tendon xanthoma (tendon sparingly) offers cosmetically and functionally acceptable outcomes, with faster recovery and no recurrences over 2 years.
The Role of Biomaterials and Biocompatible Materials in Implant-Supported Dental Prosthesis
Authors: Eftekhar Ashtiani Reza , Alam Mostafa , Tavakolizadeh Sara , Abbasi Kamyar
Published: August 2021

The dental implant is one of the appropriate instances of the different dental materials and their application, which is the combined procedure of technology and science in physics, biomechanics, and surface chemistry from macroscale to nanoscale surface engineering and manufactured technologies. In recent decades, biomaterials in implant therapy promote bone response and biomechanical ability, which is long-term from surgical equipment to final prosthetic restoration. Biomaterials have a crucial role in rehabilitating the damaged structure of the tooth and supplying acceptable outcomes correlated with clinical performance. There are some challenges in implantation such as bleeding, mobility, peri-implant infections, and the solution associated with modern strategies which are regarded to biomaterials. Various materials have been known as promising candidates for coatings of dental implants which contain polyhydroxyalkanoates, calcium phosphate, carbon, bisphosphonates, hydroxyapatite, bone stimulating factors, bioactive glass, bioactive ceramics, collagen, chitosan, metal and their alloys, fluoride, and titanium/titanium nitride. It is pivotal that biomaterials should be biodegradable; for example, polyhydroxyalkanoates are biodegradable; also, they do not have bad effects on tissues and cells. Despite this, biomaterials have important roles in prosthetic conditions such as dental pulp regeneration, the healing process, and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. In this review study, the role of biocompatible materials in dental implants is investigated in in vitro and in vivo studies.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Subcritical CO2 Extract of Lepidium latifolium L. (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Azimkhanova Balzhan B. , Ustenova Gulbaram O. , Sharipov Kamalidin O. , Rakhimov Kayrolla D. , Sayakova Galiya M. , Jumagaziyeva Ardak B. , Flisyuk Elena V. , Gemejiyeva Nadezhda G.
Published: August 2021

The genus Lepidium L. from Brassicaceae Burnett. family covers over 150 species with an almost cosmopolitan spread. In Kazakhstan, 21 species are described, of which four species are characterized by medicinal properties (L. crassifolium Waldst. et Kit., L. perfoliatum L., L. ruderale L., and L. latifolium L.), used in folk medicine as means of antibacterial, irritant, laxative, antitumor, analgesic, and anthelmintic action. Methods. Raw materials were collected from Almaty region (Republic of Kazakhstan). Lepidium latifolium L. herb’s carbon dioxide extract (CO2 extract) was obtained by subcritical carbon dioxide extraction. A gas chromatograph with a mass spectrometric detector was used to determine the component composition of the extract. Antimicrobial activity was determined by two methods: the micromethod of serial dilution and the disc-diffusion method. Four microbial test strains were used: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538-P, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 10031, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. Results. The technology of carbon dioxide extraction has undoubted advantages over traditional methods of extraction: it has a controlled selectivity in relation to groups of biologically active substances, allows deep extraction, and maximizes the release of rich complexes of compounds contained in plants. In this study, firstly, the CO2 extract was obtained under subcritical conditions from the aerial part of L. latifolium L., and the composition was determined. Hexane was the best solvent for CO2 extract, and 40 components were identified. Screening of antimicrobial activity of the L. latifolium’s CO2 extract showed the essential activity of all clinically significant strains tested: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Candida albicans. Conclusions. This research showed that the CO2 extract of the raw material of Lepidium latifolium L. contains biologically active compounds exhibiting an essential antimicrobial effect, and therefore it is possible to recommend for the development of various drugs for use in medical practice.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Survey toward Skin Cancer among Ecuadorian Population
Authors: Pinos-León Victor H. , Sandoval César , Cabrera Franklin , Terán Esmeraldas , Garnica Ana , Kellendonk Ana , Alvear Mery , Rosero Carla , Vaca Lorena , Bonifaz Jorge , Buestán Anita , Armas Claudia , Trujillo Raquel , Freire Patricio , León Tamara , Erazo Giselle , García Liliana , Alzate Marcela , Toapanta Vicente , Ortega Myriam , Caicedo Daniela , Pereira Alicia , Gómez-Barreno Lenin , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. , Charlie Merry , Ortiz-Prado Esteban , Simbaña-Rivera Katherine
Published: August 2021

Background. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, and melanoma is a highly preventable cancer. In Ecuador, few studies have evaluated the awareness levels of the population about the disease. For this reason, the objective of this study was to measure the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding skin cancer and its determining factors. Methods. A cross-sectional analysis using an online self-assessment questionnaire containing 40 questions was delivered. A total of 537 participants were included in this study. Knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were assigned to each participant based on the number of correct or appropriate responses. Logistic regression analysis was used to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios. Results. In total, 75% of participants referenced knowledge of the harmful effects related to noncontrolled solar exposure. Concerning sunscreen, 76.7% knew the reason for using it. The female group was 1.68 times more likely to get a higher score than the male group, and the groups between 61–70 and 71–80 years were 0.30 and 0.17 times less likely to get a higher score compared with the less than 20-years-old group, respectively. Conclusions. The findings of this study indicate the requirement to increase the population’s knowledge about skin cancer and possible protection measures. For this reason, the prevention and health promotion programs at a national level from primary healthcare centers are recommended. Due to the limitation of the representativeness of the sample, the use of more studies among Ecuadorian residents of the low socioeconomic level and replication in different provinces of Ecuador is justified.
Differential Proteomic Analysis of the Hippocampus in Rats with Neuropathic Pain to Investigate the Use of Electroacupuncture in Relieving Mechanical Allodynia and Cognitive Decline
Authors: Gong Degui , Yu Xiangmei , Jiang Menghong , Li Changzheng , Wang Zhifu
Published: August 2021

Abnormal changes in hippocampal function and neuroplasticity are involved in neuropathic pain, which induces hyperalgesia and learning and memory deficits. Previous studies from our group have shown that electroacupuncture at Huantiao (GB30) and Yanglingquan (GB34) has an obvious analgesic effect on neuropathic pain. However, the central regulatory mechanism occurring in the hippocampus remains to be investigated. In this study, behavioral and proteomic analyses were performed to identify differentially expressed hippocampal proteins involved in electroacupuncture-induced analgesia. Our results showed both upregulated (TMEM126A, RDH13, and Luc7L) and downregulated proteins (Mettl7A, GGA1 RTKN, RSBN1, and CDKN1B). Further protein verification revealed for the first time that hippocampal TMEM126A plays an important anti-inflammatory role in the treatment of neuralgia by electroacupuncture.
Effect of Tai Chi on Cognitive Function among Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gu Renjun , Gao Yujia , Zhang Chunbing , Liu Xiaojuan , Sun Zhiguang
Published: August 2021

Background. Cognitive decline occurs in all persons during the aging process and drugs can only alleviate symptoms and are expensive. Some researches demonstrated that Tai Chi had potential in preventing cognitive decline while others’ results showed Tai Chi had no influence on cognitive impairment. Therefore, we conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of cognitive impairment patients practicing Tai Chi. Methods. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo (Ovid), CKNI, Wan Fang, VIP, SinoMed, and ClinicalTrails, from their inception to 1 July 2020 to collect randomized controlled trials about practicing Tai Chi for patients with cognitive impairment. Primary outcomes included changes of cognitive function and secondary outcomes included changes of memory functions. Data were extracted by two independent individuals and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2.0 was applied for the included studies. Systematic review and meta-analysis were performed by RevMan 5.3 software. Results. The results included 827 cases in 9 studies, of which 375 were in the experimental group and 452 were in the control group. Meta-analysis showed that Mini-Mental State Examination WMD = 1.52, 95% CI [0.90, 2.14]; Montreal Cognitive Assessment WMD = 3.5, 95% CI [0.76, 6.24]; Clinical Dementia Rating WMD = −0.55, 95% CI [−0.80, −0.29]; logical memory delayed recall WMD = 1.1, 95% CI [0.04, 2.16]; digit span forward WMD = 0.53, 95% CI [−0.65, 1.71]; and digit span backward WMD = −0.1, 95% CI [−0.38, 0.19]. No adverse events were reported in the included articles. Conclusion. There is limited evidence to support that practicing Tai Chi is effective for older adults with cognitive impairment. Tai Chi seems to be a safe exercise, which can bring better changes in cognitive function score.
A Novel Method for Differential Prognosis of Brain Degenerative Diseases Using Radiomics-Based Textural Analysis and Ensemble Learning Classifiers
Authors: Jain Manju , Rai C. S. , Jain Jai
Published: August 2021

We propose a novel approach to develop a computer-aided decision support system for radiologists to help them classify brain degeneration process as physiological or pathological, aiding in early prognosis of brain degenerative diseases. Our approach applies computational and mathematical formulations to extract quantitative information from biomedical images. Our study explores the longitudinal OASIS-3 dataset, which consists of 4096 brain MRI scans collected over a period of 15 years. We perform feature extraction using Pyradiomics python package that quantizes brain MRI images using different texture analysis methods. Studies indicate that Radiomics has rarely been used for analysis of brain cognition; hence, our study is also a novel effort to determine the efficiency of Radiomics features extracted from structural MRI scans for classification of brain degenerative diseases and to create awareness about Radiomics. For classification tasks, we explore various ensemble learning classification algorithms such as random forests, bagging-based ensemble classifiers, and gradient-boosted ensemble classifiers such as XGBoost and AdaBoost. Such ensemble learning classifiers have not been used for biomedical image classification. We also propose a novel texture analysis matrix, Decreasing Gray-Level Matrix or DGLM. The features extracted from this filter helped to further improve the accuracy of our decision support system. The proposed system based on XGBoost ensemble learning classifiers achieves an accuracy of 97.38%, with sensitivity 99.82% and specificity 97.01%.
Study on the Effect of Continuity and Load Angle of Prefabricated Cross‐Flaws on Crack Initiation and Coalescence
Authors: Liang Dongxu , Zhang Nong , Rong Haoyu
Published: August 2021

In this study, a model that is closer to the state of fracture presentation in natural rocks has been developed, which is different from the previous. The cross‐flaws can be characterized by the joint persistency (k) and the angle between the primary flaws and axial load (α). The two parameters were varied individually and, by combining them, nine specimens with different nodal parameters were formed. Laboratory specimens and numerical simulations were performed on these specimens to investigate the crack extension process and the variation of crack initiation and coalescence stresses. It is found that a new category of crack coalescence is discovered according to the experimental results besides those reported before, and the angle α affects whether tensile‐shear cracks appear. Also, α has an impact on the location where crack first occurs. The joint persistency k alters rock failure mode and has a substantial effect on crack initiation stress. However, the effect on the aggregation stress is not significant. The crack initiation stress decreases in the case of cross‐flaws in contrast to flat fissures. In addition, the flat‐joint model in PFC2D is used for numerical simulation. It is possible to conduct a study that is difficult to achieve experimentally by using simulations, i.e., only changing one macroparameter without changing others and thus studying the changes in the effect on cracking during fracture. The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results. At the same time, the connection mode and the width of the crack coalescence zone of the primary defect, which is difficult to observe in the experiment, are found out from the numerical simulation.
Free Span Analysis for Submarine Pipelines
Authors: Mohaddes Pour Mehrdad , Razavi Taheri Seyed Sina , Amirhosein moniri abyaneh
Published: August 2021

Pipelines are one of the most important and key elements that align with transferring hydrocarbon products in coastal and offshore industries which are exposed at various risks during their servicing. In this project, we are studding and describing free spanning of marine pipeline based on DNVGL‐RP‐F‐105 regulation applying the finite element method by Abaqus software. For modeling, case studies of Gorze to Kish oil pipeline have been used. In order to provide and study the integrity of the structure against fatigue, the exact place as well as the free span length using software under environmental loading based on DNVGL‐RP‐F205 has been determined. Since based on DNVGL‐TS‐F101 free span causes local buckling, fatigue, and pipe burst then given to the servicing as well as environmental conditions, pipe condition has been monitored. Finally, using sensitivity analysis, the effect of different soil classes, elasticity module, and temperature on the pipe condition has been studied. At the end, the question if it is allowed to use a cross model for bed has been answered in previous studies.
Coronavirus Disease in Children: A Single-Center Study from Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mosalli Rafat M. , Kobeisy Sumayyah Ahmed Nezar , Al-Dajani Nawaf M. , Ateeg May Abu , Ahmed Mostafa A. , Meer Wael M. , Al-Saeedi Hussain Y. , Al-Harbi Saleh A.
Published: August 2021

Introduction. Local data in Saudi Arabia regarding pediatric SARS-CoV-2 infection is limited. This study is aimed at adding insight regarding the effect of the novel coronavirus on pediatric patients by studying the presentation, laboratory parameters, and disposition of SARS-CoV-2-infected pediatric patients in one center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methodology. A retrospective study was conducted at the International Medical Center (IMC) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to assess features of pediatric patients admitted with COVID-19 from April 2020 to September 2020. Results. A total of 43 patients were found to meet the study inclusion criteria. The most common presenting symptom was fever (53.5%) in study participants followed by complaints of cough, runny nose, and shortness of breath (37.2%). Lymphocytopenia was evident among 60% of those studied. Elevated C-Reactive Protein was remarkable in 24.9%. More than half of those (53.5%) studied required only supportive treatment. Conclusion. COVID-19 disease for the most part is mild in children with a varying clinical picture and nonspecific laboratory parameters. Further, large-scale national-based studies are needed to help in the early identification of pediatric cases at risk of complication due to COVID-19 infection hence providing proper and timely management, identifying population-specific disease pattern and perhaps targeted immunization.
Improving the Accuracy in Classification of Blood Pressure from Photoplethysmography Using Continuous Wavelet Transform and Deep Learning
Authors: Wu Jiaze , Liang Hao , Ding Changsong , Huang Xindi , Huang Jianhua , Peng Qinghua
Published: August 2021

Background. Continuous wavelet transform (CWT) based scalogram can be used for photoplethysmography (PPG) signal transformation to classify blood pressure (BP) with deep learning. We aimed to investigate the determinants that can improve the accuracy of BP classification based on PPG and deep learning and establish a better algorithm for the prediction. Methods. The dataset from PhysioNet was accessed to extract raw PPG signals for testing and its corresponding BPs as category labels. The BP category of normal or abnormal followed the criteria of the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Hypertension Guidelines. The PPG signals were transformed into 224 ∗ 224 ∗ 3-pixel scalogram via different CWTs and segment units. All of them are fed into different convolutional neural networks (CNN) for training and validation. The receiver-operating characteristic and loss and accuracy curves were used to evaluate and compare the performance of different methods. Results. Both wavelet type and segment length could affect the accuracy, and Cgau1 wavelet and segment-300 revealed the best performance (accuracy 90%) without obvious overfitting. This method performed better than previously reported MATLAB Morse wavelet transformed scalogram on both of our proposed CNN and CNN-GoogLeNet. Conclusions. We have established a new algorithm with high accuracy to predict BP classification from PPG via matching of CWT type and segment length, which is a promising solution for rapid prediction of BP classification from real-time processing of PPG signal on a wearable device.
The Predictive Value of Baseline Target Lesion SYNTAX Score for No-Reflow during Urgent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Gao Guofeng , Xu Han , Zhang Dong , Song Chenxi , Guan Changdong , Xu Bo , Yin Dong , Dou Kefei
Published: August 2021

Objectives. To evaluate the predictive value of target lesion SYNTAX score (TL-SS) for no-reflow in the patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing urgent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Background. Risk assessment, prevention, and prompt management of no-reflow in urgent PCI are crucial but remain challenging. SYNTAX score emerged as a tool for prediction, but may contain redundant information. Methods. After screening of consecutive patients who underwent urgent PCI in Fuwai Hospital from January 2013 to December 2013, 487 patients with 528 lesions were involved. The endpoint was no-reflow during the PCI procedure. Results. No-reflow occurred in 52 patients (10.7%) and 53 lesions (10.0%). High TL-SS levels were strongly associated with increased risks of no-reflow in the urgent PCI procedure (all adjusted

P
<
0.05

). TL-SS displayed good discrimination ability for no-reflow (C-statistics = 0.76, 95% CI 0.72–0.80), which was better than that of SYNTAX score (

P
=
0.016

). Following categorizing the lesions into two groups according to the Youden Index, the high-risk group (TL-SS ≥8) showed significantly higher no-reflow rate compared with the low-risk group (TL-SS <8) (20.6% vs. 3.6%, odds ratio 6.86, 95% confidence interval 3.50–13.41,

P
<
0.001

). In the target lesions that underwent balloon predilation, maximum predilation pressure >10 atm was associated with higher rate of no-reflow in the high-risk group (odds ratio 3.81, 95% confidence interval 1.10–13.17). Conclusions. TL-SS is a potential predictor for risk stratification of no-reflow in urgent PCI. In the high TL-SS lesions that underwent balloon predilation, maximum predilation pressure >10 atm was associated with higher risk of no-reflow.
LncRNA POU3F3 Promotes Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Renal Cell Carcinoma by Downregulating LncRNA GAS5
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Cezheng , Ma Min
Published: August 2021

Background: LncRNAs play regulatory roles in diverse nephrological disorders, including renal cancer. Overexpression of lncRNA POU3F3 (POU3F3) has only been reported in esophageal squamous-cell carcinomas, indicating POU3F3 may be an oncogene in this disease. LncRNA GAS5 (GAS5) was reported to be a suppressor in various tumors. However, the roles and underlying mechanism of POU3F3 and GAS5 involved in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remain unknown. Methods: Real-time quantitative PCR and in situ hybridization were performed to determine the expression of POU3F3 and GAS5 in paired tumor and adjacent healthy tissues donated by 68 RCC patients. The prognostic values of POU3F3 and GAS5 for RCC were analyzed by performing a 5-year follow-up study. Overexpression of POU3F3 and GAS5 was achieved in RCC cells to explore the interactions between them. Transwell assay and cell proliferation assay were performed to evaluate the role of POU3F3 and GAS5 in regulating RCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Results: In the present study, we found that POU3F3 was upregulated while GAS5 was downregulated in tumor tissues than that in adjacent healthy tissues of patients with RCC. In situ hybridization analysis showed that POU3F3 was mostly expressed in tumor tissues, while GAS5 was mostly expressed in adjacent healthy tissues. High level of POU3F3 and low level of GAS5 were closely correlated with poor prognosis of RCC patients. Expression levels of POU3F3 and GAS5 were significantly and inversely correlated in tumor tissues but not in adjacent healthy tissues of RCC patients. Overexpression of POU3F3 mediated the downregulation of GAS5 in RCC cells, while GAS5 overexpression failed to significantly affect POU3F3 expression. Overexpression of POU3F3 led to promoted, while GAS5 overexpression led to inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of RCC cells. In addition, GAS5 overexpression attenuated the enhancing effects of POU3F3 overexpression on cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Conclusion: POU3F3 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in RCC possibly by downregulating GAS5.
LncRNA XIST Contributes to Cisplatin Resistance of Lung Cancer Cells by Promoting Cellular Glycolysis through Sponging miR-101-3p
Authors: Hua Gang , Zeng Zhao-long , Shi Yi-ting , Chen Wei , He Li-feng , Zhao Guo-fang
Published: August 2021

Background: Non-small-cell lung carcinoma is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers. Cisplatin (CDDP) is a currently applied standard anticancer agent for advanced lung cancers. Although effectively clinical response was achieved initially, a large fraction of lung cancer patients developed cisplatin resistance. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance is crucial for anti-lung cancer therapy. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-X-inactive-specific transcript (XIST) has been reported to be positively associated with multiple cancers. Currently, the precise role and mechanism of XIST in cisplatin resistance of lung cancer have not been elucidated. Methods: The expression levels of miR-101-3p and lncRNA XIST were detected by qRT-PCR. Cisplatin-resistant lung cancer cell line was established by selecting the survival cells under gradually increased cisplatin treatments. The cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay, and the cellular glucose metabolism rate was evaluated by Seahorse metabolic flux analysis and glucose uptake and lactate product assays. Glycolysis-related protein expression levels were detected by Western blot. Dual luciferase reporter was constructed to determine the lncRNA-miRNA interaction. Results: Here, we report XIST is significantly upregulated in lung cancer tissues compared with normal lung tissues. In addition, cisplatin-resistant lung cancer cells displayed remarkably elevated XIST expression. We demonstrated that miR-101-3p functioned as a tumor suppressor in lung cancer and sensitized lung cancer cells to cisplatin. Bioinformatics analysis predicted miR-101-3p could be a potential target of XIST through direct binding with it as a competing endogenous RNA, which was further validated from lung tumor tissues and cell lines by luciferase assay. Intriguingly, XIST significantly promoted cellular glycolysis rate of lung cancer cells. The extracellular acidification rate, glucose uptake, and lactate product were elevated by XIST overexpression. On the contrary, miR-101-3p effectively suppressed glycolysis rate. Finally, we demonstrated silencing XIST significantly recovered miR-101-3p expression and downregulated expression of glycolysis key enzymes, a phenotype could be further overridden by miR-101-3p inhibition. Conclusions: This study reveals a new molecular mechanism for the lncRNA-XIST-promoted cisplatin resistance via sponging miR-101-3p, leading to de-repression of cellular glycolysis. Moreover, these findings warrant further in vivo investigations to study XIST as a potential target to overcome cisplatin resistance.
Astragalus Polysaccharide Regulates miR-182/Bcl-2 Axis to Relieve Metabolic Memory through Suppressing Mitochondrial Damage-Mediated Apoptosis in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Gao Li-Mo , Fu Shun , Liu Fen , Wu Han-Bing , Li Wen-Jie
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Metabolic memory is one of the causes of diabetic retinopathy, and astragalus polysaccharide (APS) has great advantages in the treatment of diabetes. However, the effect of APS on metabolic memory remains to be investigated. Methods: Retinal pigment epithelial cell line ARPE-19 and primary retinal pigment epithelial cells were used to verify the effect of APS on mitochondria damage and apoptosis induced by high glucose-induced metabolic memory. The relationship between miR-182 and Bcl-2 was confirmed by a luciferase activity assay. Western blotting and quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction were conducted to investigate the changes in mitochondrial damage- and apoptosis-associated markers. The cell mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed by JC-1 fluorescence. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling staining and flow cytometry assays were performed to determine the occurrence of apoptosis. Results: Treatment with high glucose followed by normal glucose significantly upregulated the expression of miR-182 and downregulated the expression of its target Bcl-2, and APS treatment reversed the above effects. Additionally, APS treatment restored mitochondrial function and inhibited apoptosis in cells in a state of metabolic memory. The effects of APS against mitochondrial damage and apoptosis were partially inhibited after miR-182 overexpression. Conclusion: APS alleviated mitochondrial damage and apoptosis induced by metabolic memory by regulating the miR-182/Bcl-2 axis, which might serve as a new strategy for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
The Role of Obesity in Predicting the Clinical Outcomes of COVID-19
Authors: Sahin Serdar , Sezer Havva , Cicek Ebru , Yagız Ozogul Yeliz , Yildirim Murat , Icli Tevhide Betul , Polat Korkmaz Ozge , Durcan Emre , Sulu Cem , Somay Kayra , Bekdemir Bahar , Borekci Sermin , Yazici Dilek , Deyneli Oguzhan , Ergonul Onder , Tabak Fehmi , Dikmen Yalim , Ozkaya Hande Mefkure , Gonen Mustafa Sait , Damci Taner , Ilkova Hasan , Yumuk Volkan Demirhan
Published: August 2021

Introduction: The aim of this was to describe the predictors of mortality related to COVID-19 infection and to evaluate the association between overweight, obesity, and clinical outcomes of COVID-19. Methods: We included the patients >18 years of age, with at least one positive SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Patients were grouped according to body mass index values as normal weight <25 kg/m2 (Group A), overweight from 25 to <30 kg/m2 (Group B), Class I obesity 30 to <35 kg/m2 (Group C), and ≥35 kg/m2 (Group D). Mortality, clinical outcomes, laboratory parameters, and comorbidities were compared among 4 groups. Results: There was no significant difference among study groups in terms of mortality. Noninvasive mechanical ventilation requirement was higher in group B and D than group A, while it was higher in Group D than Group C (Group B vs. Group A [p = 0.017], Group D vs. Group A [p = 0.001], and Group D vs. Group C [p = 0.016]). Lung involvement was less common in Group A, and presence of hypoxia was more common in Group D (Group B vs. Group A [p = 0.025], Group D vs. Group A [p < 0.001], Group D vs. Group B [p = 0.006], and Group D vs. Group C [p = 0.014]). The hospitalization rate was lower in Group A than in the other groups; in addition, patients in Group D have the highest rate of hospitalization (Group B vs. Group A [p < 0.001], Group C vs. Group A [p < 0.001], Group D vs. Group A [p < 0.001], Group D vs. Group B [p < 0.001], and Group D vs. Group C [p = 0.010]). Conclusion: COVID-19 patients with overweight and obesity presented with more severe clinical findings. Health-care providers should take into account that people living with overweight and obesity are at higher risk for COVID-19 and its complications.
Prognostic and Clinicopathologic Significance of Discoidin Domain Receptors in Different Human Malignancies: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ferns Gordon A. , Shabanian Sheida , Shams Abadi Milad Shahini , Farhat Ahmadshah , Arjmand Mohammad-Hassan
Published: August 2021

Background: Discoidin domain receptors (DDRs) belong to the receptor tyrosine kinases family and are activated by different types of collagens, which play roles in various physiological processes. An abnormal expression of DDRs is reported in different types of cancers. Despite many reports about the association and roles of high DDR expression levels in cancers, the prognostic values of DDRs are still unclear. This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic effect of DDRs in different tissue cancers. Method: A literature search was performed in several related databases to find eligible English articles. Based on our research, 20 appropriate studies with 2,602 patients were selected till October 5, 2020. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was computed to evaluate the strength of correlation between DDRs and survival of cancer patients. Result: Pooling results showed that a high DDR expression was significantly associated with poorer overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.304, 95% CI 1.007–1.69, p = 0.04). Subgroup analysis based on cancer type revealed a significant link between a high DDR expression level and poor OS both in gastrointestinal (pooled HR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.214–2.624, p = 0.003) and urological cancers (pooled HR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.062–1.82, p = 0.018). Conclusion: Our meta-analysis results suggest that high DDRs expression has the potential to be used as a biomarker of poor prognosis in cancers.
Is Tumor Budding a New Predictor for Early Cystectomy in pT1 High-Grade Bladder Cancer?
Authors: Raventós Busquets Carles X. , Semidey M. Eugenia , Lozano Palacio Fernando , Carrión Puig Albert , Aula Olivar Ana , De Torres Ramírez Inés M. , Trilla Herrera Enrique
Published: August 2021

Background & Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the risk of progression in high-grade T1 (HGT1) tumors using tumor budding (TB) and other standard clinical and histological features. TB is defined as an isolated cancer cell or a cluster composed of fewer than 5 cells scattered in the stroma and is usually used as a strong predictor of lymph node metastasis in T1 colorectal cancer. Methods: This is an observational longitudinal cohort study involving 168 consecutive patients with HGT1 between 2013 and 2016. Cox regression was performed to analyze the relationship between the clinical and histological features and progression. All slides were blindly assessed by 2 genitourinary pathologists. Budding was determined to be positive when the number of buds was equal to or greater than 6. Results: The median age was 75 years; 152 (90.5%) patients were men, and 49 (29.2%) were positive for TB. At a median follow-up time of 35 months, 33 patients (19.6%) showed progression. Progression was observed in 32.7% of the patients positive for TB and in only 14.3% of those who were negative (p = 0.006). TB was significantly associated with the endoscopic tumor pattern (TP) (papillary/solid) and lymphovascular invasion (LVI). Univariate analysis showed that TB, carcinoma in situ (CIS), TP, LVI, sub-staging, and BCG induction predict progression. The multivariate analysis showed that TB (p = 0.032, hazard ratio 2.1), CIS, TP, and lack of BCG induction were significant for progression. Conclusions: TB is a new and significant pathological variable for predicting progression in HGT1 tumors and can be easily introduced in clinical practice. Its inclusion in the TNM system should be carefully considered, as it may aid early cystectomy decisions.