bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of randomised controlled trials of the effects of digital health interventions on postpartum contraception use
Authors: Sze Yik Yan , Berendes Sima , Russel Sophie , Bellam Laura , Smith Chris , Cameron Sharon , Free Caroline J
Published: October 2022

Background

Digital health interventions (DHI) have been used to enhance the uptake of postpartum contraception and reduce unmet contraception needs. We conducted a systematic review of the effectiveness of DHI on postpartum contraceptive use and repeated pregnancy.

Method

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL and Cochrane CENTRAL (January 1990–July 2020). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of DHI promoting contraception among pregnant or postpartum women were included. Two researchers screened articles and extracted data. We assessed the risk of bias, certainty of evidence (CoE) and conducted meta-analyses following Cochrane guidance.

Results

Twelve trials with 5527 women were included. Interventions were delivered by video (four trials), mobile phone counselling (three trials), short message services (SMS) (four trials) and computer (one trial). During pregnancy or the postpartum period, mobile phone counselling had an uncertain effect on the use of postpartum contraception (risk ratio (RR) 1.37, 95% CI 0.82 to 2.29, very low CoE); video-based education may moderately improve contraception use (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.17, low CoE); while SMS education probably modestly increased contraception use (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.23, moderate CoE). Mobile phone counselling probably increased long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) use (RR 4.23, 95% CI 3.01 to 5.93, moderate CoE). Both mobile phone counselling (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.01 to 5.77, very low CoE) and videos (RR 1.25, 95% CI 0.24 to 6.53, very low CoE) had uncertain effects on repeated pregnancy.

Conclusions

During pregnancy or in the postpartum period, videos may moderately increase postpartum contraception use and SMS probably modestly increase postpartum contraception use. The effects of DHI on repeated pregnancy are uncertain. Further well-conducted RCTs of DHI would strengthen the evidence of effects on contraception use and pregnancy.
Involving young people in sexual health research and service improvement: conceptual analysis of patient and public involvement (PPI) in three projects
Authors: Lewis Ruth , Boydell Nicola , Blake Carolyn , Clarke Zoe , Kernaghan Kirsten , McMellon Christina
Published: October 2022

Background

Although increasingly recognised as valuable within sexual and reproductive health (SRH) research and service improvement, examples of patient and public involvement (PPI) are underdocumented, including specific issues relating to young people’s involvement. This article aims to contribute to greater transparency about the practical, methodological and ethical considerations of SRH-related PPI with young people, and to offer recommendations for their meaningful involvement.

Methods

Guided by a conceptual tool for evaluating youth participation (the ‘7P’ framework), we analysed learning from PPI within three projects (two academic studies and one service improvement project) that workedwithyoung people to shape sexual health research and practice in Scotland.

Analysis

Cross-project analysis of seven interconnected domains (purpose, positioning, perspectives, power relations, protection, place and process) generated productive dialogue about the nuances of meaningfully involving young people in shaping SRH research and services. Key learning includes the importance of: young people’s early involvement in agenda-setting for SRH improvement; developing trusting partnerships that can support involvement of diverse groups of young people; creating multiple ways for young people to contribute, including those that do not rely on direct conversation; and formative evaluation of young people’s experiences of involvement.

Conclusions

Mainstreaming young people’s meaningful involvement in shaping SRH research and services requires systems-level change. Resources are required to support SRH researchers and practitioners to share learning and build sustainable multi-sector partnerships, which in turn can increase opportunities for young people from diverse groups to engage with SRH-related PPI activities.
Radiomics to evaluate interlesion heterogeneity and to predict lesion response and patient outcomes using a validated signature of CD8 cells in advanced melanoma patients treated with anti-PD1 immunotherapy
Authors: Sun Roger , Lerousseau Marvin , Briend-Diop Jade , Routier Emilie , Roy Severine , Henry Théophraste , Ka Kanta , Jiang Rui , Temar Nawal , Carré Alexandre , Laville Adrien , Hamaoui Anthony , Laurent Pierre-Antoine , Rouyar Angela , Robert Charlotte , Robert Caroline , Deutsch Eric
Published: October 2022

Purpose

While there is still a significant need to identify potential biomarkers that can predict which patients are most likely to respond to immunotherapy treatments, radiomic approaches have shown promising results. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether a previously validated radiomics signature of CD8 T-cells could predict progressions at a lesion level and whether the spatial heterogeneity of this radiomics score could be used at a patient level to assess the clinical response and survival of melanoma patients.

Methods

Clinical data from patients with advanced melanoma treated in our center with immunotherapy were retrieved. Radiomic features were extracted and the CD8 radiomics signature was applied. A progressive lesion was defined by an increase in lesion size of 20% or more. Dispersion metrics of the radiomics signature were estimated to evaluate the impact of interlesion heterogeneity on patient’s response. Fine-tuned cut-offs for predicting overall survival were evaluated after splitting data into training and test sets.

Results

A total of 136 patients were included in this study, with 1120 segmented lesions at baseline, and 1052 lesions at first evaluation. A low CD8 radiomics score at baseline was associated with a significantly higher risk of lesion progression (AUC=0.55, p=0.0091), especially for lesions larger than >1 mL (AUC=0.59 overall, p=0.0035, with AUC=0.75, p=0.002 for subcutaneous lesions, AUC=0.68, p=0.01, for liver lesions and AUC=0.62, p=0.03 for nodes). The least infiltrated lesion according to the radiomics score of CD8 T-cells was positively associated with overall survival (training set HR=0.31, p=0.00062, test set HR=0.28, p=0.016), which remained significant in a multivariate analysis including clinical and biological variables.

Conclusions

These results confirm the predictive value at a lesion level of the biologically inspired CD8 radiomics score in melanoma patients treated with anti-PD1-based immunotherapy and may be interesting to assess the disease spatial heterogeneity to evaluate the patient prognosis with potential clinical implication such as tumor selection for focal ablative therapies.
Tumoral melanosis mimicking residual melanoma in the setting of talimogene laherparepvec treatment
Authors: Park Song Y , Green Austin R , Hadi Rouba , Doolittle-Amieva Coley , Gardner Jennifer , Moshiri Ata S
Published: October 2022

Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) has become an increasingly popular treatment option for surgically non-resectable, recurrent melanoma, usually of cutaneous metastases. The complete response (CR) rate has been reported to be ~20% with a median of ~9 months to achieve it. In real-world practice, decrease of tumor size often occurs rapidly within the first 2–3 months, while improvement of the pigmentation takes several more months. Such clinical observation of lasting pigmentation could be explained by tumorous melanosis—a histopathological term referring to the presence of a melanophage-rich inflammatory infiltrate without remaining viable tumor cells. Herein, we report six patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma who were treated with T-VEC. Biopsies were performed after observing clinical responses in the injected tumors. Pathological evaluation demonstrated non-viable or absent tumor tissue with tumorous melanosis in all cases. To accurately assess response to therapy and potentially decrease unnecessary additional T-VEC treatments, serial biopsy of ‘stable’ lesions should be considered to assess the presence or absence of viable tumor.
Intravenous thrombolysis upon flow restoration improves outcome in endovascular thrombectomy
Authors: Weller Johannes M , Dorn Franziska , Petzold Gabor C , Bode Felix J
Published: October 2022

Background

We hypothesized that ongoing IV thrombolysis (IVT) at flow restoration in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treated with IVT and endovascular thrombectomy (ET) is associated with improved outcome.

Methods

We included patients with IVT and successful recanalization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score ≥2b) after ET from an observational multicenter cohort, the German Stroke Registry – Endovascular Treatment trial. Procedural characteristics and functional outcome at discharge and 90 days were compared between patients with and without ongoing IVT at flow restoration. To determine associations with functional outcome, adjusted ORs were calculated using ordinal multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for potential baseline confounder variables.

Results

Among 1303 patients treated with IVT and ET who achieved successful recanalization, IVT was ongoing in 13.8% (n=180) at flow restoration. Ongoing IVT was associated with better functional outcome at discharge (adjusted OR 1.61; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.30) and at 90 days (adjusted OR 1.52; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.18).

Conclusion

These results provide preliminary evidence for a benefit of ongoing IVT at flow restoration in patients with AIS treated with ET.
Hospice Care Access: a national cohort study
Authors: de Graaf Everlien , van der Baan Frederieke , Grant Matthew Paul , Verboeket Cathelijne , van Klinken Merel , Jobse Adri , Ausems Marieke , Leget Carlo , Teunissen Saskia
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Hospice care in the Netherlands is provided in three different types of hospice facilities: volunteer-driven hospices (VDH), stand-alone hospices (SAHs) and hospice unit nursing homes (HU). The organisational structures range from care directed by trained volunteers in VDH to care provided by multiprofessional teams in SAH and HU units.

This study aims to characterise the patient populations who access Dutch hospices and describe the patient profiles in different hospice types.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using clinical records of adult hospice inpatients in 2017–2018 from a random national sample of hospices.

Results

In total 803 patients were included from 51 hospices, mean age 76.1 (SD 12.4). 78% of patients had a primary diagnosis of cancer, 3% identified as non-Dutch cultural background and 17% were disorientated on admission. At admission, all patients were perceived to have physical needs. Psychological needs were reported in 37%, 36% and 34%, social needs by 53%, 52% and 62%, and existential needs by 23%, 30% and 18% of patients in VDH, SAH, HU units, respectively. 24%, 29% and 27% of patients from VDHs, SAHs and HUs had care needs in three dimensions, and 4%, 6% and 3% in all four dimensions.

Conclusions

People who access Dutch hospices predominantly have cancer, and have a range of physical, psychological, social and existential needs, without substantial differences between hospice types. Patients with non-malignant disease and non-Dutch cultural backgrounds are less likely to access hospice care, and future policy would ideally focus on facilitating their involvement.
Habitat use and growth of yellow-stage European eel in coastal and freshwater ecosystems in Norway
Authors: Rohtla Mehis , Daverat Françoise , Arts Michael T. , Browman Howard I. , Parzanini Camilla , Skiftesvik Anne Berit , Thorstad Eva B. , van der Meeren Terje , Vøllestad Leif Asbjørn , Durif Caroline M.F.
Published: October 2022

Many anguillid eel species display facultative catadromy. Some eel spend their entire life cycle in marine coastal areas, but the geographical extent of this, especially at the extremes of their distributional ranges, is unknown. We analysed otolith Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca from yellow-stage European eel ( Anguilla anguilla) sampled along the coast of Norway and in several freshwater lakes (58°N–63°N), to infer their initial settlement and later life movement patterns with regards to habitat salinity. Most eel (80%) sampled in marine habitats ( n = 371) had settled and remained in marine water, but 20% had moved between marine and freshwater habitats and were hence classified as inter-habitat shifters. Among freshwater sampled eel ( n = 99), 80% had settled and remained in fresh water, but 20% were classified as inter-habitat shifters. The average growth rates for marine water residents, inter-habitat shifters, and freshwater residents were 35, 27, and 17 mm·year–1, respectively. Northern European shallow marine habitats may serve as important yellow eel growth habitats and may be critical to buffer the European eel population against the general decrease in continental recruitment.
Magic square and three-zero textures for Dirac neutrinos
Authors: Minamizawa Ryota , Hyodo Yuta , Kitabayashi Teruyuki
Published: October 2022

We show a matrix decomposition of flavor mass matrix for Dirac neutrinos [Formula: see text] by sum as [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] obeys the feature of the magic square and [Formula: see text] is three-zero texture. The favorable three-zero textures in the context of magic square are explored. It turned out that the so-called normal ordering of neutrino masses is favored over the inverted ordering in the context of magic square.
New analytical solutions and efficient methodologies for DNA (Double-Chain Model) in mathematical biology
Authors: Abdou M. A. , Ouahid Loubna , Al Shahrani Jameelah S. , Alanazi Meznah M. , Kumar Sachin
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the double-chain model for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is studied analytically by taking advantage of two reliable methodologies: the new auxiliary equation method (NAEM) and the expa function method. The deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) contains the genetic information that creatures require for their survival and reproduction. The used approaches produce exact explicit solutions to the double chain model of DNA in mathematical biology, which are presented in this paper. Many novel solutions such as trigonometric, exponential, singular, and hyperbolic solutions, are obtained by using the aforementioned techniques. Numerical simulations are employed to supplement the obtained solutions, making this research biologically relevant. Eventually, kink wave, nonlinear wave, plane wave-front and doubly soliton profiles of solutions are presented in analysis and discussion section. It is indeed important to note that the solutions produced using these techniques are more generalized and can be more useful to demonstrate the internal interactions of the double chain DNA model.
Personalized Learning Path Recommendation for E-Learning Based on Knowledge Graph and Graph Convolutional Network
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Liu Shan , Wang Huiyong
Published: October 2022

In e-learning, the increasing number of learning resources makes it difficult for learners to find suitable learning resources. In addition, learners may have different preferences and cognitive abilities for learning resources, where differences in learners’ cognitive abilities will lead to different importance of learning resources. Therefore, recommending personalized learning paths for learners has become a research hotspot. Considering learners’ preferences and the importance of learning resources, this paper proposes a learning path recommendation algorithm based on knowledge graph. We construct a multi-dimensional courses knowledge graph in computer field (MCCKG), and then propose a method based on graph convolutional network for modeling high-order correlations on the knowledge graph to more accurately capture learners’ preferences. Furthermore, the importance of learning resources is calculated by using the characteristics of learning resources in the MCCKG and learners’ characteristics. Finally, by weighting the two factors of learners’ preferences and the importance of learning resources, we recommend the optimal learning path for learners. Our method is evaluated from the aspects of learner’s satisfaction, algorithm effectiveness, etc. The experimental results show that the method proposed in this paper can recommend a personalized learning path to satisfy the needs of learners, thus reducing the workload of manually planning learning paths.
Cosmology and nonadditive entropy
Authors: Martínez-Merino A. , Sabido M.
Published: October 2022

Nonadditive entropies have been proposed as alternatives to understanding the thermodynamics of Black Holes. Moreover, it has been suggested that the difficulties of quantization of gravity are an indication that gravity is an emergent phenomenon, and therefore an entropic formulation is warranted. In this work, we explore cosmologies that come from nonadditive entropies. We focus our study on the cosmologies derived from entropies in superstatistics.
Eccentric pairs: Analytic gravitational waves from binary black holes in elliptic orbits
Authors: Buskirk Dillon , Babiuc Hamilton Maria C.
Published: October 2022

Gravitational waves (GW) from eccentric binaries have intricate signals encoding important features about the location, creation and evolution of the sources. Eccentricity shortens the merger time, making the emitted GW statistically predominant in the observed data once detectors will reach the required sensitivity. We present a novel implementation of fully analytical GW templates from eccentric binary black hole (BBH) mergers within the Wolfram Mathematica software. We increase the accuracy by identifying and minimizing the possible source of errors. We start with an overview of the physics involved in eccentric mergers, then assemble the strain for the inspiral by employing up to six post-Newtonian (PN) corrections. We complete the eccentric inspiral with the quasi-circular Backwards one Body (BOB) merger model in frequency, amplitude and phase, then we build the hybrid GW strain for the whole evolution of the binary. For low eccentricity, we reach coincidence in the overlap, with no ambiguity in the time interval, a remarkable improvement from the usual matching techniques. For high-eccentricity, we compensate for the implicit quasi-circular assumption of the BOB approach, by introducing a small rescaling in amplitude. Our streamlined implementation is relevant for the new field of GW astronomy and is straightforward to understand, use and extend, offering researchers in the field a valuable open resource tool.
On maximal ideals of the polynomial ring and some conjectures on Ext-index of rings
Authors: Bouchiba Samir
Published: October 2022

Recall that a ring [Formula: see text] is a Hilbert ring if any maximal ideal of [Formula: see text] contracts to a maximal ideal of [Formula: see text]. The main purpose of this paper is to characterize the prime ideals of a commutative ring [Formula: see text] which are traces of the maximal ideals of the polynomial ring [Formula: see text]. In this context, we prove that if [Formula: see text] is a prime ideal of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a semi-local domain of (Krull) dimension [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is the trace of a maximal ideal of [Formula: see text]. Whereas, if [Formula: see text] is Noetherian and either ([Formula: see text]) or (the quotient field of [Formula: see text] is algebraically closed, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is not semi-local), then [Formula: see text] is never the trace of a maximal ideal of [Formula: see text]. Putting these results into use in investigating the Ext-index of Noetherian rings, we establish connections between the finiteness of the Ext-index of localizations of the polynomial rings [Formula: see text] and the finiteness of the Ext-index of localizations of [Formula: see text]. This allows us to provide a new class of rings satisfying some known conjectures on Ext-index of Noetherian rings as well as to build bridges between these conjectures.
Asymmetric Embedded Benzene Ring in Graphite Carbon Nitride Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution in Visible Light
Authors: Gong Ming , Wei Zhong , Cui Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2022

Preventing the high recombination rate of carriers in graphite-carbon nitride (GCN) is essential for hydrogen production. In this work, we break the original symmetry of GCN by embedding benzene ring for enhanced visible-light absorption and carriers transfer efficiency. The new catalyst was prepared by a condensation reaction using dicyandiamide and 5-amino-2,4,6-triiodoisophthalic acid as precursors. It shows photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 690.74[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]h[Formula: see text], 9.3 times enhancement than the original GCN. This work provides a new strategy for designing efficient two-dimensional photocatalytic materials for water splitting.
Dynamical behavior of a mosquito population suppression model composed of two sub-models
Authors: Huang Mingzhan , Yu Xiaohuan , Liu Shouzong , Song Xinyu
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a new mosquito population suppression model with stage and sex structure is constructed, which is composed of two sub-models switching each other. Sterile mosquitoes are released with period [Formula: see text] and remain sexually active for time [Formula: see text]. For the case [Formula: see text], three thresholds [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are determined for the release period [Formula: see text] and release amount [Formula: see text]. According to the values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in different ranges determined by these thresholds, we study the dynamical behavior of the system for different release strategies, mainly including the existence and stability of the mosquito-extinction equilibrium and positive periodic solutions. Finally, some numerical simulations are performed to illustrate our results.
Impact of Subclinical Hypothyroidism on Clinical, Biochemical, Hormonal and Anthropometrical Profile in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Reema Sumbul , Khanam Deeba
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To determine the correlation of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and to assess its impact on the clinical, biochemical and hormonal features in polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Background: PCOS is one of the most common endocrinopathies seen in women of the reproductive age group with a prevalence ranging from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] globally (Joshi et al., 2014) and [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] (Malik et al., 2014) in the Indian population. Thyroid disorders are quite commonly seen in PCOS patients, SCH are seen in up to [Formula: see text] of this population (de Medeiros et al., 2018). Its association with PCOS has been insufficiently explored and therefore this study was designed to better understand the correlation.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from November 2019 to 2021 in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, Aligarh, India, on 150 PCOS women in the age bracket of 18–35 years. They were divided in two groups: one with normal thyroid levels and the other with SCH. Measurement of clinical, anthropometrical, biochemical and hormonal profile was made in both groups and comparison was made using appropriately matched tests of significance and coefficient of correlations.

Results: Notable findings included a positive and statistically significant correlation between SCH and menstrual cycle irregularities ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), infertility ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), body mass index ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), waist to hip ratio ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), testosterone([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), total cholesterol ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), triglyceride values ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), fasting insulin ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and HOMA-IR ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). A positive but statistically insignificant correlation was found with hirsutism ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), luteinizing hormone ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), follicle-stimulating hormone ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), prolactin levels ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), high-density lipoprotein ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), low-density lipoprotein ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and fasting blood sugar values ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). No statistical significance with systolic blood pressure ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and diastolic blood pressure ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) was found.

Conclusion: The study showed a significant correlation between SCH and multiple variables in PCOS and thereby necessitating thyroid screen in PCOS population.
Speciation of trace elements in the Bowland Shale
Authors: Parnell J. , Nwoko K. , Feldmann J. , Armstrong J.
Published: October 2022

Samples of the Bowland Shale and equivalents in Ireland that represent a range of thermal maturities from the oil window to gas window contain trace elements distributed through multiple residences. The trace element distribution reflects the depositional environment, and influences subsequent element release. Measurements of Se, Cu, As, U and Mo indicate variable retention in loosely bound and strongly bound forms. The trace elements are especially associated with diagenetic pyrite. Shales from Ireland, at higher thermal maturity, have relatively high proportions of loosely bound Se, Cu and As, which may reflect expulsion from the pyrite during recrystallization. The shale samples consistently contain high organic matter contents, reflecting deposition in an anoxic environment. The Se, Mo and U in particular may be bound to organic matter, which may have adverse environmental impacts upon weathering of the shale.
Smooth muscle cell FTO regulates contractile function
Authors: Luse Melissa A. , Krüger Nenja , Good Miranda E. , Biwer Lauren A. , Serbulea Vlad , Salamon Anita , Deaton Rebecca A. , Leitinger Norbert , Gödecke Axel , Isakson Brant E.
Published: October 2022

We show a key role for the fat mass obesity (FTO) gene in regulating smooth muscle contractility, possibly by methylation of serum response factor (Srf).
Hypertension is linked to enhanced lymphatic contractile response via RGS16/RhoA/ROCK pathway
Authors: Mukohda Masashi , Mizuno Risuke , Saito Fumiyo , Matsui Toshiyasu , Ozaki Hiroshi
Published: October 2022

Lymph capillary controls interstitial electrolyte and volume balance, which may blunt increased blood pressure. However, the function of lymphatic vessel in hypertension is poorly understood. Our study showed that the lymphatic smooth muscle contractility is hyperreactive in two different hypertensive models. The lymphatic dysfunction could be mediated by dysregulation of ROCK pathway possibly through RGS16. The present finding supports a new concept showing the functional relationship between lymphatic contractile activity and hypertension.
Ultrasound Versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Shoulder Pain in End Stage Renal Disease Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Tharwat Samar , Nagy Eman , Mohsen Mohamed , Nassar Mohammed Kamal
Published: October 2022

Background. Musculoskeletal pain is common in hemodialysis (HD) patients and may be related to articular or periarticular amyloid deposition. The shoulder is one of the most common afflicted joints, but not all causes of shoulder pain are detectable on radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not always available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) to properly detect shoulder disorders in HD patients by identifying US abnormalities in the shoulder and comparing them to those identified on MRI, with MRI serving as the gold standard test. Methods. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 28 HD patients (16 males and 12 females, mean age 46.89) with either unilateral or bilateral shoulder pain. Demographic data and clinical characteristics were recruited. All patients were subjected to clinical assessment, MSUS and MRI of both shoulders. Results. US abnormalities were prevalent in almost all patients. Supraspinatus tendinopathy was the most common abnormality in symptomatic shoulders (92.1%), followed by subacromial-subdeltoid (SASD) bursitis (65.8%), humoral erosions (57.9%), and acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) osteoarthritis (52.6%). MSUS shows high sensitivity and specificity when compared to MRI in all the studied shoulder pathologies except glenohumeral joint (GHJ) effusion (sensitivity, 33.3%) and infraspinatus tendinopathy (sensitivity, 58.3%). The percentage of agreement between MSUS and MRI in detecting biceps tenosynovitis was 82.14% (kappa, 0.64), subscapularis tendinopathy 83.93% (kappa, 0.654), supraspinatus tendinopathy 91.07% (kappa, 0.617), infraspinatus tendinopathy 82.14% (kappa, 0.470), SASD bursitis 80.36% (kappa, 0.569), humeral head erosions 82.14% (kappa, 0.635), GHJ effusion 82.14% (kappa, 0.352), and ACJ osteoarthritis 76.79% (kappa, 0.539). Conclusions. Shoulder problems are common in HD patients, even in people who do not have obvious shoulder complaints. MSUS is a valuable imaging technique that assists in the diagnosis of HD patients who report shoulder pain.
Antiproliferative Effects of Ferulic, Coumaric, and Caffeic Acids in HepG2 Cells by hTERT Downregulation
Authors: Afshari Afsoon , Moein Mahmoodreza , Afsari Afshin , Sabahi Zahra
Published: October 2022

Objective. Phenolic acids are well-known phytochemicals that are detected in a wide variety of medicinal plants, and their antiproliferative effects on cancer cells are known, but their mechanisms are poorly revealed. In most of cancer cells, telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is a dominant factor of telomere length regulation. The hTERT expression promotes invasiveness in tumor cells and is a hallmark of cancer. Therefore, in this study, the probable inhibitory effects of caffeic (Caf), coumaric (Cum), and ferulic acids (Fer) are investigated on the hTERT expression pattern in HepG2 cells. Methods. The MTT, apoptosis assays, and real-time PCR analysis were applied to evaluate viability, cytotoxicity, and hTERT gene expression level, respectively. Results. All of the studied phenolic acids showed cytotoxic effects on HepG2 cells in a timely manner and presented a time-dependent inhibitory effect on the growth of HepG2 cells. They reduced percentage of viable cells and induced apoptosis. Also, these phenolic acids had significant inhibitory effects on hTERT gene expression. Conclusion. These findings suggest that cell viability along with hTERT gene expression in HepG2 cells could be reduced by Cum, Caf, and Fer. As different cancer cells are resistant to conventional chemotherapeutics, this type of results proposes the telomerase as a proper target of cancer therapy development by natural products.
Drying Characteristics and Microbiological Quality Assessment of Solar-Dried Tomato
Authors: Owureku-Asare Mavis , Oduro Ibok , Saalia Firibu K. , Tortoe Charles , Ampah Jonathan , Ambrose Kingsly
Published: October 2022

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is an important vegetable used in cooking most local foods in Ghana. At the peak season of harvesting, high loses are incurred because of the absence of tomato processing facilities to store, process, and extend the shelf life of fresh tomatoes. Solar drying has been proven to be a more efficient and low-cost method of enhancing quality and adding value to tomato and other vegetables. However, there are concerns about the functionality and quality of the dried products by consumers due to the methods of drying used. In this study, a passive mixed-mode solar dryer suitable for drying tomato was adapted and used to investigate the dehydration characteristics and microbiological quality of the dried tomato. The efficiency of a passive solar dryer was evaluated and used in the processing of fresh tomato to powder. The processing involved the pretreatment of 6 mm slices of fresh Roma variety of tomato by dipping in potassium metabisulfite solution and ascorbic acid solution. The moisture content, moisture ratio, and dehydration rate of solar-dried tomato were assessed. The 24 h dryer efficiency of 24.2% facilitated the drying process of tomato (final moisture content of 12-14%). Aerobic mesophile counts were lower in solar-dried tomato pretreated with potassium metabisulfite (3.90 CFU/g) compared with sun-dried samples (4.85 CFU/g). Solar-dried tomato powder is safer for consumption compared with open sun-dried tomato samples.
Geochemical, Mineralogical, and Geomorphological Characterization of Ash Materials as a Tracer for the Origin of Shifting Sands near Oldupai Gorge, Ngorongoro, Tanzania
Authors: Makongoro Mohamed Zengo , Vegi Maheswara Rao , Vuai Said Ali Hamad , Msabi Michael Mwita
Published: October 2022

Shifting sand (SS) is a single dune-shaped mass of black ash material moving across western Ngorongoro in northern Tanzania. The moving sand has become an important tourist destination for several decades. Despite being part of the important geosites at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the nature, origin, and behaviors demonstrated by SS remain poorly understood. This work contributes toward understanding the nature and identification of the possible origin of the SS through the correlation of geochemical, mineralogical, and geomorphological data of ash material from four selected locations in the study area. To achieve this goal, elemental, mineralogical, and morphological characterization of ash samples was performed by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence, polarized petrographic microscopy, automated sieve shaker, and binocular microscopy techniques, respectively. Correlation studies were based on magnesian-ferriferous associations, similarities in mineralogy, particle size, shape, and distribution patterns of ash materials, and weather data. There are close similarities in the chemical compositions among ash samples of SS, Ootun area, and Oldoinyo Lengai. Augite and magnetite minerals appear only in samples of SS, Ootun area, and Oldoinyo Lengai, while hornblende appears only in the samples from the Ngorongoro crater. Oldoinyo Lengai rock petrography revealed significant amounts of augite minerals. Blocky and elongated-shaped ash particles dominate the samples from SS, Ootun area, and Oldoinyo Lengai. The particle size of ash materials decreases westwards across the study site. The distribution patterns of ash material align with the west-south-west wind direction. Based on these findings, the study concludes that SS and Ootun ash could be tephra depositions resulting from past volcanic eruptions of Oldoinyo Lengai.
Logistic Entropy of Trabecular Bone Score in SLE Patients and New Type Visualizations
Authors: Kılınç Gülsen
Published: October 2022

The medical images and reference intervals, in the diagnosis and treatment process of diseases, are undoubtedly very important. Clear and easy interpretation of images and reference intervals derived from medical devices and statistical methods, respectively, are of great importance for doctors in the diagnosis and treatment process. In this article, for systemic lupus erythematosus disease, we have transformed the reference intervals into fuzzy sets and calculated the entropy values to find the uncertainty contained in the reference interval of systemic lupus erythematosus disease, so the doctors can keep in view patient treatment using entropy values. Finally, for better observations of patients, with the help of the entropy functions, new types of medical images were given for some trabecular bone diseases using Wolfram Mathematica 7.0. We should note that this type of medical images for bone mineral density is not in medicine.
Effect of TAVR Approach and Other Baseline Factors on the Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alzu’bi Hossam , Rmilah Anan Abu , Haq Ikram-UI , Kheiri Babikir , Al-abdouh Ahmad , Hasan Bashar , Elsekaily Omar , Jaber Suhaib , Qaisi Ibraheem , Yagmour Asil , Dajani Hamada , Ahmed Azza , Ahmed elhag  , Kashani Kianoush , Deshmukh Abhishek
Published: October 2022

Background. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a well-known complication following a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Objective. We aim to compare the risk of developing AKI after transfemoral (TF), transapical (TA), and transaortic (TAo) approaches following TAVR. Methods. We searched Medline and EMBASE databases from January 2009 to January 2021. We included studies that evaluated the risk of AKI based on different TAVR approaches. After extracting each study’s data, we calculated the risk ratio and 95% confidence intervals using RevMan software 5.4. Publication bias was assessed by the forest plot. Results. Thirty-six (36) studies, consisting of 70,406 patients undergoing TAVR were included. Thirty-five studies compared TF to TA, and only seven investigations compared TF to TAo. AKI was documented in 4,857 out of 50,395 (9.6%) patients that underwent TF TAVR compared to 3,155 out of 19,721 (16%) patients who underwent TA-TAVR, with a risk ratio of 0.49 (95% CI, 0.36–0.66;

p
<
0.00001

). Likewise, 273 patients developed AKI out of the 1,840 patients (14.8%) that underwent TF-TAVR in contrast to 67 patients out of the 421 patients (15.9%) that underwent TAo-TAVR, with a risk ratio of 0.51 (95% CI, 0.27–0.98; p = 0.04). There was no significant risk when we compared TA to TAo approaches, with a risk ratio of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.29–2.75; p = 0.84). Conclusion. The risk of post-TAVR AKI is significantly lower in patients who underwent TF-TAVR than those who underwent TA-TAVR or TAo-TAVR.
A Brief Review of Natural Products with Urate Transporter 1 Inhibition for the Treatment of Hyperuricemia
Authors: Yuan Qianghua , Cheng Yuan , Sheng Rong , Yuan Yan , Hu Mei
Published: October 2022

Hyperuricemia is a common disease caused by a high level of uric acid. Urate transporter 1 (URAT1) is an important protein and mediates approximately 90% of uric acid reabsorption. Therefore, the URAT1 inhibitor is a class of uricosuric medicines widely used in the clinic for the treatment of hyperuricemia. To find the new medicine with stronger URAT1 inhibition and lower toxicity, researchers have been exploring natural products. This study systematically summarizes the natural products with URAT1 inhibition. The results show that many natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, stilbenes, and steroids, among which flavonoids are the most promising source of URAT1 inhibitors. It is worth noting that most studies have focused on finding natural products with inhibition of URAT1 and have not explored their activities and mechanisms toward URAT1. By reviewing the few existing studies of the structure-activity relationship and analyzing common features of natural products with URAT1 inhibition, we speculate that the rigid ring structure and negative charge may be the keys for natural products to produce URAT1 inhibition. In conclusion, natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, and exploring the mechanism of action and structure-activity relationship will be an important research direction in the future.
Improved Distributed Multisensor Fusion Method Based on Generalized Covariance Intersection
Authors: Wang Kuiwu , Zhang Qin , Hu Xiaolong
Published: October 2022

In response to the multitarget tracking problem of distributed sensors with a limited detection range, a distributed sensor measurement complementary Gaussian component correlation GCI fusion tracking method is proposed on the basis of the probabilistic hypothesis density filtering tracking theory. First, the sensor sensing range is extended by complementing the measurements. In this case, the multitarget density product is used to classify whether the measurements belong to the intersection region of the detection range. The local intersection region is complemented only once to reduce the computational cost. Secondly, each sensor runs a probabilistic hypothesis density filter separately and floods the filtering posterior with the neighboring sensors so that each sensor obtains the posterior information of the neighboring sensors. Subsequently, Gaussian components are correlated by distance division, and Gaussian components corresponding to the same target are correlated into the same subset. GCI fusion is performed on each correlated subset to complete the fusion state estimation. Simulation experiments show that the proposed method can effectively perform multitarget tracking in a distributed sensor network with a limited sensing range.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Effects of Bimin Kang Mixture on Allergic Rhinitis: Network Pharmacology and RNA Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Qi Li-Jie , Wang Ren-Zhong , Gao Shang , Chen Xiang-Jing , Zhang Xin , Zhang Yi-Peng
Published: October 2022

Background. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract. Previous studies have demonstrated that Bimin Kang Mixture (BMK) is effective in alleviating AR symptoms and reducing the secretion of inflammatory factors and mucin; however, the precise mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. Methods. We built target networks for each medication component using a network pharmacology technique and used RNA‐seq transcriptome analysis to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for AR patients and control groups. The overlapping targets in the two groups were assessed using PPI networks, GO, and KEGG enrichment analyses. The binding ability of essential components to dock with hub target genes was investigated using molecular docking. Finally, we demonstrate how BMK can treat AR by regulating the NF‐κB signaling pathway through animal experiments. Results. Effective targets from network pharmacology were combined with DEGs from RNA‐seq, with 20 intersections as key target genes. The construction of the PPI network finally identified 5 hub target genes, and all hub target genes were in the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Molecular docking suggests that citric acid, deoxyandrographolide, quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol are structurally stable and can spontaneously attach to IL‐1β, CXCL2, CXCL8, CCL20, and PTGS2 receptors. Animal experiments have shown that BMK inhibits NF‐κB transcription factor activation, reduces the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines IL‐1β, CXCL2, IL‐8, and COX‐2, and exerts anti‐inflammatory and anti‐allergic effects. Conclusion. BMK by regulating the NF‐κB signaling pathway improves inflammatory cell infiltration, regulates mucosal immune balance, and reduces airway hypersensitivity. These findings provide theoretical support for the clinical efficacy of BMK for AR treatment.
Combination Therapy of Polydeoxyribonucleotide and Microcurrent in Muscle Regeneration on Cast‐Induced Muscle Atrophy in Rabbit
Authors: Kwon Dong Rak , Moon Yong Suk , Kwon Do Yun
Published: October 2022

Background. The aim of this study was to evaluate how polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) and microcurrent therapy (MT) functioned synergistically in a cast‐immobilized rabbit model with an atrophied calf muscle. Methods. At the age of 12 weeks, 32 male New Zealand rabbits were enrolled in four groups. After 2 weeks of cast‐immobilization, 4 procedures were performed on atrophied calf muscle [weekly two injections normal saline 0.2 ml injection group 1 (G1‐NS), weekly two injections 0.2 ml PDRN injection group 2 (G2‐PDRN), MT group 3 (G3‐MT), and 0.2 ml PDRN injection with MT group 4 (G4‐PDRN+MT)]. For 2 weeks, MT was used for 60 minutes each day. The calf circumference (CC), the thickness of gastrocnemius muscle (TGCM), and the tibial nerve compound muscle action potential (CMAP) were evaluated using ultrasound before and after 2 weeks of treatment. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), vascular endothelial growth factor, and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1) of GCM fibers (type I, type II, and total) were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA. Results. The mean atrophic alterations of right CC, CMAP, and TGCM (medial/lateral) were substantially lower in G4‐PDRN+MT than in the G1‐NS, G2‐PDRN, and G3‐MT, respectively (p < 0.05). Furthermore, mean CSAs (type I, type II, and total) of medial and lateral GCM muscle fibers in G4‐PDRN+MT were significantly higher when compared to other three groups (p < 0.05). In terms of the PCNA‐, VEGF‐, and PECAM‐1‐positive cell ratio of medial and lateral GCM muscle fibers, G4‐PDRN+MT was considerably higher than G1‐NS, G2‐PDRN, and G3‐MT (p < 0.05). Conclusions. On the atrophied calf muscle of the rabbit model, PDRN injection combined with MT was more effective than PDRN injection alone, MT alone, and normal saline injection separately.
Electroacupuncture Modulates 5-HT4R-Mediated cAMP/PKA Signaling to Improve Intestinal Motility Disorders in a Thy1-αSyn Parkinson’s Mouse Model
Authors: Shen Lin , Wang Zhaoqin , Huang Rude , Wu Luyi , Huang Yan , Qi Qin , Zhong Rui , Chen Yiyi , Li Lingjie , Wu Huangan
Published: October 2022

Constipation is one of the most common nonmotor symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and often occurs before motor symptoms. Electroacupuncture effectively improves the symptoms of constipation in patients with PD. In the present study, we used thymus cell antigen 1-α-synuclein (Thy1-αSyn) transgenic mice as a model of intestinal motility disorders in PD to determine the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture and the underlying mechanisms. Electroacupuncture significantly improved fecal excretion and accelerated the rate of small-intestinal propulsion in Thy1-αSyn mice by upregulating the serotonin concentration and the expression of the serotonin 4 receptor. Consequently, the downstream cyclic AMP/protein kinase A (cAMP/PKA) pathway was affected, and to upregulate and downregulate, the expression of substance

P

was upregulated, and the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide was downregulated. In summary, electroacupuncture improved intestinal motility in PD mice by affecting serotonin levels, serotonin 4 receptor expression, and the cAMP/PKA pathway, providing a potentially effective and promising complementary and alternative therapy for relieving constipation symptoms in patients with PD.
Identification of the Dominant Harmonic Source Type in the Distribution Network Using the Soft Computing Technique
Authors: Lenka Sasmita , Sinha Pampa , Paul Kaushik , Jena Chitrlekha , Das Swagat , Khan Baseem
Published: October 2022

An innovative technique has been proposed for determining the position and characteristics of harmonic generating resources in a distribution system. The proposed methodology is primarily based on the wavelet decomposition of power signals on the factor of dimension. Detail power or harmonic power calculation at level 1 reduces the computational burden of the algorithm. The distinguishing harmonics concept can be used to detect a harmonic generating source from the distribution network. The sampling frequency is chosen so that the appropriate harmonic data are captured at level 1 and the pseudo-frequency of the wavelet decomposition at first level is close to the characteristic frequency of the load. The proposed method has been applied in different types of distribution systems to check its validity.