bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, radiographic characterizations and complications of maxillary molar in a non-agomphiasis periodontitis population: a retrospective study based on CBCT three-dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Jiang Yue , Cui Wenxiao , Wu Qingheng , Wang Hanjiao , Zheng Lihe , Chen Jialu , Wang Xiaoqian , Li Lu , Guo Shuyu , Xu Yan
Published: July 2022

Objective
This study was aimed to delineate the clinical, 3-dimentional radiographic characteristics and complications of maxillary molar in a non-agomphiasis periodontitis population.
Materials and methods
Medical records and CBCT images were utilized to identify adult patients with periodontitis in a tertiary referral dental hospital between June 2019 and December 2020. CBCT scan coupled with 3-dimentional reconstruction were used to characterize the detailed bone thickness, absorbing height and position of maxillary molar as well as their associated conditions. All relevant descriptive epidemiological data, clinical information, radiographic details and associated complications were recorded and statistically analyzed.
Results
According to the above criteria, 577 eligible periodontitis patients were enrolled and defined as research cohort here with mean age 45 ± 4.8 years. Male patients outnumbered females with a gender ratio of 1.23:1. Our results demonstrated that the bone loss of maxillary first molar was more serious than that of second molar with tooth position symmetry. The occurrence of various complications (periodontal abscess, pulp lesions, furcation lesion and mucosal thickening) was significantly correlated to periodontal-related clinical parameters of maxillary molar.
Conclusions
Our results demonstrated the more serious bone loss of maxillary first molar with tooth position symmetry. The occurrence of various complications was significantly correlated to periodontal-related clinical parameters. Our findings offer valuable information concerning the clinical, radiographic characteristics and complications of maxillary molar in a non-agomphiasis periodontitis population.
Clinical relevance:
These findings are beneficial for clinicians to comprehensively understand the bone status, pathogenesis, and clinical management of maxillary molar in periodontitis.
The prevalence and associated risk factors of low birth weight in singleton term pregnancies
Authors: Ranjbar Amene , Jahromi Maliheh Shirzadfard , Shekari Mitra , Darsareh Fatemeh , Mehrnoush Vahid
Published: July 2022

Background: Numerous studies in various parts of the world have revealed the factors contributing to low birth weight (LBW), classified as maternal, paternal, and obstetrical factors. However, the risk factors for LBW varied greatly across geographical settings. Thus, the main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of LBW among term newborns in Bandar Abbas, Iran.Methods: We retrospectively assessed singleton term pregnant mothers who gave birth at Khaleej-e-Fars Hospital (a tertiary hospital) in Bandar Abbas, Iran, between January 1st, 2020, and January 1st, 2022. Demographic factors (age, educational level, residency place, medical insurance, access to prenatal care facilities, smoking status), obstetrical factors (gestational age, parity, newborn sex, oligohydramnios, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), abnormal placentation, placenta abruption) and maternal comorbidities (overt diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension, cardiovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, drug addiction, hepatitis, anemia, infertility, and COVID-19 at the time of admission) were extracted from electronic data of each mother. The Chi-square test was used to compare differences between the groups for categorical variables. Logistic regression models were used to assess the LBW risk factors.Results: Of 7440 singleton term deliveries during the study period, 460 (6.2%) were LBW. Maternal age was the only demographic factor that was significantly different between groups. In bivariate analysis, maternal age, parity, newborn sex, and preeclampsia were significantly associated with LBW. Mothers at the age of 13-19 aOR 1.97 (CI 1.26-12.98), primiparous mothers aOR 2.44 (CI 2.01-3.17), mothers with female fetus aOR 3.79 (CI 2.13-3.99), and mothers diagnosed with preeclampsia aOR 1.71 (CI 1.35-2.99) were at higher risk of having LBW in multivariate analysis.Conclusions: LBW has been linked to several factors. Significant predictors of LBW were found to be maternal age, parity, newborn sex, and preeclampsia. Health care providers should focus on identifying factors to address the problem of LBW.
Human Papillomavirus 16 E6 Promotes Angiogenesis of Lung Cancer by SNHG1
Authors: Nie Zhenkai , Zhang Kaihua , Li Zhantao , Bing Xiaohan , Jin Shan , Li Mingru
Published: July 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for lung cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying is not known. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been found to play an important part in the occurrence and development of lung cancer due to their particular characteristics. HPV induced lung carcinogenesis are incompletely defined. We aim to screen and clarify the functions of lncRNAs that are differentially expressed in HPV related lung cancer. We find that lncRNA SNHG1 is upregulated in lung cancer cells infected with HPV16 E6 by qRT-PCR. Further results demonstrate that SNHG1 overexpression facilitates the tube formation of lung cancer cells in vitro. Our results also indicate that SNHG1 might function in lung cancer by binding with EGFR. Further studies indicate that SNHG1 overexpression can activate nuclear factor κb (NF-κB) pathway which increases the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6). We also find IL-6 can activate STAT3 pathway which promote the VEGF-D expression. These results expanded our understanding of SNHG1 as a new avenue for therapeutic intervention against lung cancer progression. Upregulation of SNHG1 by HPV infection might be an undefined link between lung cancer and HPV.
Calprotectin as a non-invasive biomarker for Acute Noninfectious Granulomatous Anterior Uveitis in Egyptian Patients
Authors: Nage Sara Abd El meged , Esmail Ahmed
Published: July 2022

Purpose
To study the relation between serum calprotectin level and acute noninfectious anterior uveitis in Egyptian patients.
Methods
An observational prospective study carried out at Menoufia University Hospital during the period from march 2021 till June 2022, after informed consent from all studied patients. This study included 20 eyes of patients with Acute Anterior Uveitis (AAU) and 20 eyes healthy individuals matched sex and age as the control group. Full history taking, ophthalmological examination and serum calprotectin levels were performed for both patients and controls.
Results
The majority of AAU patients' eyes (55%) had a moderate grade, followed by a faint grade (30%) and a pronounced grade (15%). Serum calprotectin levels were substantially higher in patients with acute anterior uveitis than in healthy eyes (61.45 ± 7.89 vs. 32.50 ± 11.64; 95% CI: 22.58–35.32; P < 0.001). In comparison to negative previous uveitis and mild to moderate anterior uveitis, serum calprotectin levels were substantially higher with positive previous uveitis (64.75 ± 4.65) and notable grade (67.00 ± 2.65). The serum calprotectin cutoff point for diagnosing AAU was 58.0, with sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 43%. Serum calprotectin had a cutoff value in the prognosis of AAU of 63.0, with a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 37.5%.
Conclusion
Serum calprotectin levels was significantly higher with positive previous uveitis and marked grade indicating a possible role of calprotectin in the pathogenesis of noninfectious AAU. Finally, we discovered serum calprotectin as a possible biomarker for predicting patients' mortality risk and the likelihood of developing anterior uveitis, whose prompt monitoring may enhance the prognosis of anterior uveitis.
Sources and chronology of soluble salt formation in a medieval dovecote caught up in urbanization: a resilience story?
Authors: Chabas Anne , Kloppmann Wolfram , Sizun Jean-Pierre , Wille Guillaume , Coman Adriana , Petitmangin Aline , Nowak Sophie , Martin Erwan , Jurgens Marie-Ange
Published: July 2022

The dovecote is one of the last two witnesses of the medieval history of the city of Creteil (11 km SE of Paris). Classified as a historical monument by the French Ministry of Culture in 1972, it was moved away from its original location the same year and restored between 1980 and 1987. Fifty years after its displacement, the dovecote still shows salt efflorescence on the inner and outer wall surface. The aim of this study is to determine the composition and the ancient or modern source of these salts and whether their presence is harmful to the preservation of the dovecote. A combination of low- to non-invasive methods associating microclimatic measurements, mineralogical, petrophysical, chemical, and isotopic analyses on micro-samples with historical documentation are used to find the causes of salt enrichment and migration throughout and after the service life of this monument.
Prevalence and correlates of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection among senior high school students in Ghana: A latent class analysis
Authors: Ampofo Ama Gyamfua , Boyes Allison W , Asibey Shadrack Osei , Oldmeadow Christopher , Mackenzie Lisa
Published: July 2022

BackgroundWhile health risk behaviours are likely to co-occur, there is a dearth of studies exploring the clustering of cervical cancer and HPV infection risk factors among adolescents. This study aimed to determine: 1) the prevalence of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection, 2) the clustering of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection, and 3) factors associated with the identified clusters. MethodsFemale students (aged 16-24 years, N=2400) recruited from 17 randomly selected senior high schools in the Ashanti Region, Ghana completed a questionnaire assessing modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection including early sexual intercourse (>18 years), unprotected sex and smoking. Latent class analysis explored separate classes of students according to their risk factor profiles for cervical cancer and HPV infection. Latent class regression analysis explored factors associated with latent class memberships. ResultsApproximately one in three students (34%, 95%CI: 32%-36%) reported exposure to at least one risk factor. Two separate classes emerged: high-risk and low-risk (cervical cancer: 24% and 76% of students, respectively; HPV infection: 26% and 74% of students, respectively). Participants with higher risk factor knowledge had significantly higher odds of belonging to cervical cancer and HPV infection high-risk classes. Participants with greater perceived susceptibility to cervical cancer and HPV infection were more likely to belong to the high-risk HPV infection class. Sociodemographic characteristics and greater perceived seriousness about cervical cancer and HPV infection had significantly lower odds of belonging to both high-risk classes. ConclusionsThe distinction between high and low-risk classes for cervical cancer and HPV infection risk factors suggests the need to tailor different health interventions targeting students who are at risk, especially in resource-constrained situations and settings.
Moral Universals: A machine-reading analysis of 256 societies
Authors: Alfano Mark , Cheong Marc , Curry Oliver
Published: July 2022

What is the cross-cultural prevalence of the seven moral values posited by the theory of “Morality-as-Cooperation”? Previous research, using hand-coding of ethnographic accounts of ethics from 60 societies, found examples of most of the seven morals in most societies, and observed these morals with equal frequency across cultural regions. Here we extend this analysis, by developing a new Morality-as-Cooperation Dictionary (MAC-D), and using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) to machine-code ethnographic accounts of ethics from an additional 196 societies (the entire HRAF corpus). Again, we find evidence of most of the seven morals in most societies, across all cultural regions. The new method allows us to detect minor variations in morals across region and subsistence strategy. And we successfully validate the machine-coding against the previous hand-coding. These findings lend further support to the theory of ‘morality-as-cooperation’. And MAC-D emerges as the most comprehensive and well-validated tool for machine-reading moral corpora. We discuss the limitations of the current study, as well as prospects for future research.
Paternal methotrexate exposure affects sperm small RNA content and causes craniofacial defects in the offspring
Authors: Jimenez Nagif Alata , Castellano Mauricio , Santillan Emilio , Boulias Konstantinos , Boan Agustin , Padilla Luisa Arias , Fernandino Juan , Greer Eric , Tosar Juan , Cochella Luisa , strobl-mazzulla Pablo
Published: July 2022

Folate is an essential vitamin for vertebrate embryo development. Methotrexate (MTX) is a folate antagonist that is widely prescribed for autoimmune diseases, blood and solid organ malignancies, and dermatologic diseases. Although it is highly contraindicated for pregnant women, because it is associated with an increased risk of multiple birth defects, the effect of paternal MTX exposure on their offspring has been largely unexplored. Here, we found MTX treatment of adult medaka male fish (Oryzias latipes) causes cranial cartilage defects in their offspring. Small non-coding RNA (sncRNAs) sequencing in the sperm of MTX treated males identify differential expression of a subset of tRNAs, with higher abundance for specific 5’ tRNA halves. Sperm RNA methylation analysis on MTX treated males shows that m5C is the most abundant and differential modification found in RNAs ranging in size from 50 to 90 nucleotides, predominantly tRNAs, and that it correlates with greater testicular Dnmt2 methyltransferase expression. Overall, our data suggest that paternal MTX exposure alters sperm sncRNAs expression and modifications that may contribute to developmental defects in their offspring.
Management of Penile Post-circumcision Ischemia by Pentoxifylline Infusion and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Authors: Fahmy Mohamed A. Baky , Sabra Tarek Abdelazeem , Abdelmohsen Sarah Magdy , Gad Dalia
Published: July 2022

Background: Post-circumcision penile ischemia is a devastating complication. We will present our experience in managing children with various forms of penile ischemia.Material and methods: This cohort prospective observational study was performed on all male children with post-circumcision penile ischemia between April 2017 and October 2021. A designed and approved protocol includes a combination of early pentoxifylline infusion, hyperbaric oxygen inhalation, early catheterization, and appropriate surgical debridement were applied for all cases. Data of patient age, anesthesia method, monopolar diathermy use, early presentation and positive wound culture were collected and analyzed statistically.Results: During the study period a 3,382 child were circumcised for non-medical reason; 23 children were diagnosed with penile ischemia (0.7%), among other complications (9%) Most of the penile ischemia is associated with use of monopolar diathermy (74%), compressive wound dressing to control post-circumcision bleeding and infections are responsible for ischemia in 52.2% and 43.5% of cases. Inexperienced physicians were commonly responsible for ischemia (73.9%). Patients managed at first 24 hours had better outcomes than those who were presented later (p = 0.001).Conclusion: In children with post-circumcision penile ischemia, a combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and pentoxifylline is effective, and reduces penile tissue loss.
Characteristics and Outcome of Mechanically ventilated Children aged 1month-18rs at the University of Gondar Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit ,Northwest Ethiopia,from June 1,2015 to September 30,2021
Authors: Kokeb Mehretie , Biazen Mulualem
Published: July 2022

Background: It is mandatory for the clinicians to understand the events occurring in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and outcome of mechanically ventilated children for improving the quality of care of the critically ill child. There are many factors which are associated with increased magnitude of mortality in ventilated children. Therefore this study will assess the overall characteristics and outcome of mechanically ventilated children aged 1month-18years at the University of Gondar Hospital, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.Methods: Institution based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 115 children admitted and mechanically ventilated at PICU of the University of Gondar Hospital from June2015 to September 2021.Data were collected by a structured data extraction tool from the medical records. Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 20. Both descriptive and analytical statistical procedures were utilized. To identify associated factors with the outcome, both bivariate and multi-variate logistic regression analysis were applied. The results of the regression analysis were reported as OR with their 95% confidence interval and significance of p-value below 0.2 and 0.05 in Bivariate and multi variate logistic regressions, respectively..Result: The overall mortality was reported to be 54.8% and clinical characteristics of ventilated children showed that neurologic emergencies (coma)41(35.7%) and Mmalignancies which found in 20(17.4%) were the major reasons for mechanical ventilation. Frequently used mode was SIMV (79.1%) and CPAP was the preferred method of weaning (50%).Conclusion and recommendation: The mortality rate of mechanically ventilated pediatric patients at the University of Gondar Hospital ,PICU was 54.8%. The main cause of death was Acute Respiratory Distress syndrome. SIMV was the main mode and ETT was the only way to access the airway. Severe Acute Malnutrition ,extubation during night and duration of PICU stay were significant predictors of PICU mortality.
Cerebral Fat Embolism Syndrome Case Series
Authors: thangavel saraswathi
Published: July 2022

Fat embolism is the presence of fat particles within the microcirculation, while FES is the systemic manifestation of fat emboli within the microcirculation. FES commonly presents with ards, altered mental status, and dermatological manifestations which occur commonly after traumatic long-bone fractures, though the incidence reported by varies studies range from 1–33%. Here we discuss the two young patients presented with cerebral fat embolism syndrome. Cerebral FES may manifest from minimal changes in mentation to deep coma. Early suspicion in patients with no traumatic neuro parenchymal injury and MRI of brain will be helpful for the early diagnosis
The Clinical Outcomes of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Liver Metastasis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Canyu , Yi Qing , Han Xu , Zhou Xuerong , tan cheng , Jiang Rui
Published: July 2022

Purpose
This retrospective clinical study expounded the clinical application details of stereotactic radiotherapy for liver cancer established in our center.
Method
The therapeutic effect and prognosis of liver cancer patients treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) from 2011 to 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. The clinical and radiotherapy data were collected and analyzed. Overall survival (OS), local control (LC) rates and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated using Kaplan Meier analysis and log-rank test. Local progression was defined as irradiated tumor growth in dynamic computed tomography follow-up. Treatment-related toxicities were assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.3.
Results
Thirty-six patients with liver cancer were enrolled in this study. The median follow-up time was 21.4 months. The median OS time was 20.4 (95% confidence interval [CI]:6.6–34.2) months, and the 1- and 2-OS rates were 59.6 and 44.2%, respectively. The median PFS time was 17.3 (95% CI:11.8–22.8) months, and the 1- and 2-year PFS rates were 65.6% and 39.1%, respectively. The 1- and 2-year local control rates were 94.2% and 83.4%, respectively. The most common grade IV toxicity was AST/ALT elevation (5.6%) followed by thrombocytopenia (2.8%). There were no cases of grade III/IV radiation pneumonia and digest discomfort.
Conclusion
The SBRT technology applied in our center for liver cancer is safe and effective. The prescribed dosage (14Gy × 3 Fractions/16Gy × 3 Fractions) we used was reliable and efficient.
Effects of Recreational Dance on the Attention Span and Quality of Life of Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: AIYEJUSUNLE COZENS BANKOLE , OLAWALE OLAJIDE AYINLA , OSHODI YEWANDE OLUFUNMILAYO , AJAKAIYE DEBORAH ERIOLUWA
Published: July 2022

Background/ objectives The aim of this study was to determine the effects of recreational dance on the attention span (AS) and quality of life (QoL) of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Methods Eighteen participants were recruited for this study. Both control and intervention groups participated in ball catching/throwing together for 30 minutes, with extra 30minutes sessions of recreational dance in the intervention group. Both attention span and QoL were measured using the manual stopwatch and the Quality of Life In Autism (QoLA) questionnaire, respectively before and after each treatment session. Results AS improved significantly in both groups but the intervention group had greater improvement (from p= 0.036 to p=0.004). Conclusion Recreational dance is beneficial for individuals with ASDs.
Advanced Fashion Recommendation System for Different Body Types using Deep Learning Models
Authors: Wazarkar Seema , Patil Shruti , Gupta Pratik S. , Singh Kriti , Khandelwal Mukund , Vaish C. V. Sri , Kotecha Ketan
Published: July 2022

The fashion industry is rapidly expanding and playing a critical role in driving global economies. Due to this ever-growing industry, application of computer science is rising rapidly to solve different problems in this industry. Many e-commerce sites around the world allow their customers to purchase clothing items over the internet predominantly using recommender systems for shoppers based on the customer's purchase history, similar buying patterns of other shoppers, items in the wishlists and latest trends. These recommendation models lack personalization based on the user's body demographics. Since fashion is a way, one chooses to express themselves, it is important that each piece is carefully selected to suit the buyer. In this paper, an improved recommendation system is developed using a deep learning model for customers with different body shapes/types. It helps users to select clothing items based on their body shape. Proposed system is evaluated with respect to multiple deep learning models as well as traditional machine learning approaches. Xception model out performed by achieving 94% accuracy and a loss of 0.02%.
Infectious side effects of baricitinib: a big data analysis based on VigiBase
Authors: Mahroum Naim , Ozkan Mehmet Fatih , Abali Tunahan , Yilmaz Mesut , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi
Published: July 2022

Background and aim: baricitinib is an inhibitor of Janus-associated kinase (JAK) subtypes 1 and 2 with various effects on intracellular signaling pathways. Approved for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and recently used for severe COVID-19, the prevalence of infections associated with baricitinib treatment has not been widely reported. We aimed to analyze the prevalence of infectious side effects in patients treated with baricitinib. Methods: using the WHO global pharmacovigilance database (VigiBase), we carried out an extensive data analysis of approximately 300 patients treated with baricitinib. The prevalence of infectious side effects was our main focus. Patients treated with baricitinib for the indication of severe COVID-19 were excluded.Results: the most prevalent infectious side effect of baricitinib was oral herpes (IC025 of 4.36) and herpes zoster infection (IC025 of 4.159). On the contrary, gastrointestinal viral infections, infectious pleural effusions and various viral pneumonias had low prevalence rates (IC025 values of 0.173; 0.093; and 0.188, respectively). Conclusion: based on a big data analysis, baricitinib was associated with infectious complications where oral herpes and herpes zoster infections shown to be more prevalent than previously reported. The immunomodulatory effect of baricitinib including cytokine effects on immune cells and the inhibition of numerous growth factors and cytokines such as IL-2, suppressing both innate and adaptive immune responses, are the most comprehensive mechanisms behind such side effects. Given the clinical indications for baricitinib (RA) and the current use in severe COVID-19, cautious approach should be taken before introducing baricitinib particularly in immunosuppressed patients.
Shore Protection Using Special Perforated Breakwater with Generating Renewable Energy
Authors: saie Yasser El
Published: July 2022

This paper presents an innovative vertical perforated breakwater for protecting shore line from Sea water wave energy and meanwhile converting the transmitted water wave energy to a renewable energy through some vents inside the body. This structure is composed of a vertically-faced shaped as rectangular with number of vents differ to be some ratios of porosities tested firstly as a wave energy dissipater by sign up the reading of the sensors of wave height before and after the seawall, and analyze the total energy transmitted to pushed it to an innovative system producing renewable electric energy, by adapting the location of these vents and changing the dimensions of these holes in three models with dimensions (8×4, 4×4, & 7×6 respectively, dimensions in cms). By choosing five heights of water depths (15, 19, 23, 27 & 31 cms) and four eccentricities of the wave maker, also recording the volt and ampere and finally the total percentage of wave energy that can be converted. These experiments were carried out in a recirculating open channel flume located at the Hydraulics Engineering Laboratory, at the Higher Institute of Engineering in El Shorouk City.
High-Performance and Balanced Parallel Graph Coloring on Multicore Platforms
Authors: Giannoula Christina , Peppas Athanasios , Goumas Georgios , Koziris Nectarios
Published: July 2022

Graph coloring is widely used to parallelize scientific applications by identifying subsets of independent tasks that can be executed simultaneously. Graph coloring assigns colors the vertices of a graph, such that no adjacent vertices have the same color. The number of colors used corresponds to the number of parallel steps in a real-world end-application. Therefore, the total runtime of the graph coloring kernel adds to the overall parallel overhead of the real-world end-application, whereas the number of the vertices of each color class determines the number of the independent concurrent tasks of each parallel step, thus affecting the amount of parallelism and hardware resource utilization in the execution of the real-world end-application.In this work, we propose a high-performance graph coloring algorithm, named ColorTM, that leverages Hardware Transactional Memory (HTM) to detect coloring inconsistencies between adjacent vertices. ColorTM detects and resolves coloring inconsistencies between adjacent vertices with an eager approach to minimize data access costs, and implements a speculative synchronization scheme to minimize synchronization costs and increase parallelism. We extend our proposed algorithmic design to propose a balanced graph coloring algorithm, named BalColorTM, with which all color classes include almost the same number of vertices to achieve high parallelism and resource utilization in the execution of the real-world end-applications.We evaluate ColorTM and BalColorTM using a wide variety of large real-world graphs with diverse characteristics. ColorTM and BalColorTM improve performance by 12.98x and 1.91x on average using 56 parallel threads compared to prior state-of-the-art approaches. Moreover, we study the impact of our proposed graph coloring algorithmic designs on a popular end-application, i.e., Community Detection, and demonstrate the ColorTM and BalColorTM can provide high performance improvements in real-world end-applications across various input data given.
Fracture, friction and damage processes in earthquake rupture zones
Authors: Ben-Zion Yehuda , Dresen Georg
Published: July 2022

We discuss properties and processes of earthquake rupture zones based on field studies, laboratory observations, theoretical models and simulations, with the goal of assessing the possible dominance of different processes in different parts of the rupture and validity of commonly used models. Rupture zones may be divided into front, intermediate, and tail regions that interact to different extents. The rupture front is dominated by fracturing and granulation processes and strong dilatation, producing faulting products that are reworked by subsequent sliding behind. The intermediate region sustains primarily frictional sliding with relatively high slip rates that produce appreciable stress transfer to the propagating front. The tail region further behind is characterized by low slip rates that effectively do not influence the propagating front, although it (and the intermediate region) can spawn small offspring rupture fronts. Earthquake ruptures are often spatially discontinuous and intermittent with a hierarchy of asperity and segment sizes that radiate waves with different tensorial composition and frequency bands. While different deformation processes dominating parts of the rupture zones can be treated effectively with existing constitutive relations, a more appropriate analysis of earthquake processes would require a model that combines aspects of fracture, damage-breakage, and frictional frameworks.
Acute Toxicity of Two Commonly Used Fungicides to Midwestern Amphibians
Authors: Hopkins Andrew , Hoverman Jason
Published: July 2022

Fungicide usage has increased globally in response to the rise in fungal pathogens, especially in the agricultural sector. Consequently, fungicides are not only increasingly found in water quality surveys, but they are also often the most detected pesticide type. However, research examining the toxicity of fungicides is still limited for many aquatic species. In this study, we examined the acute toxicity of two widely used fungicides, chlorothalonil and pyraclostrobin, on six larval amphibian species across multiple families using 96-h LC50 tests. We found that pyraclostrobin was approximately 3.5x more toxic than chlorothalonil; estimated LC50 values ranged from 5–18 µg/L for pyraclostrobin and 15–50 µg/L for chlorothalonil. Comparing across amphibian groups, we found that salamanders were 3x more sensitive to pyraclostrobin than anuran species and equally as sensitive to chlorothalonil. Notably, our estimated LC50 values are close in magnitude to the expected environmental concentration for these fungicides suggesting environmental exposures could lead to direct mortality in these species. Given the widespread and increasing usage of fungicides, additional work should be conducted to assess the general risk posed by these chemicals to amphibian and their associated aquatic habitats.
Associations between saliva and plasma cytokines and YKL-40 in cognitively-normal, older adults
Authors: Parkin Georgia M. , Kim Soyun , Mikhail Abanoub , McMillan Liv , Malhas Rond , Hollearn Martina , Granger Douglas A. , Mapstone Mark , Yassa Michael A. , Thomas Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2022

Inflammatory responses play key roles in the development and progression of many pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative conditions. Accurate quantification of inflammatory factors in saliva would be highly advantageous, given its convenience and non-invasive nature, enabling use as biomarkers for disease processes especially in older adults. However, few studies have attempted to validate salivary assays by directly comparing cytokine levels in blood and saliva samples the same individuals. In this study, we measured levels of 10 cytokines, interferon gamma (IFNg), interleukin (IL)-1 beta (IL-1b), IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFa), as well as the inflammatory glycoprotein, YKL-40, in blood and saliva samples from a cohort of nondemented older adults (n = 71; 62% female; mean age 70.3 +/- 6.4 yrs; ) using sensitive electrochemiluminescence-based immunoassays. We found that the mean levels of all cytokines were higher in saliva compared to plasma, and specifically that levels of IL-1b, IL-2, IL-4, IL-12p70 and IL-13 in plasma were below the instrument detection limit for more than 50% of the subjects. We found strong sex differences in both saliva and plasma cytokines, with levels of several salivary cytokines, as well as YKL-40, showing higher concentrations in males compared to females. Comparing each cytokine between the two biofluids, we found that levels of IFNg, IL-6 and TNFa in blood were significantly correlated with their respective levels in saliva. We further observed that levels of these cytokines in blood were significantly correlated with additional cytokines in saliva, including IL-1b, IL-10, IL-8, IL12p70 and IL-13. These findings show that inflammatory markers in saliva are associated with those found in circulation, suggesting that inflammatory mechanisms between these two fluids are, at least to some extent, related. Consistent with prior work, several salivary markers were more likely to surpass the detection threshold than plasma markers, suggesting that salivary assays may, at least in some cases, be more useful for detecting physiological changes. Further our findings of robust sex differences in several salivary cytokines could have important implications for their potential use as health or disease biomarkers.
Dynamical behaviour of non-linear Kuramoto-Sivashinskyequation using integrated radial basis function networks
Authors: Bhanot Rajeev P.
Published: July 2022

In this research work, we implement the 1D-IRBFN method to find approximate solution of a very important non-linear partial differential equation (NLPDE) known as Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation (KSE). The Crank–Nicolson formulation is used for time integration and the radial basis functions are used for the space discretization for KSE. We use the IRBFN method to solve two versions of KS equation, and then we compare numerical results with the exact solutions to demonstrate the accuracy of the method. The obtained solutions are in good agreement with the exact solutions. To visualize the dynamical behavior of KSE with different parameter values, we show graphical solutions and also compare the numerical solutions with few of results given in the recent research papers. To express the efficiency of the method, we calculate two types of errors in the numerical experiments (a) global relative error and (b) L2 error.Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 74Sxx · 35G20
Identification of a novel immune-related gene prognostic index in pancreatic adenocarcinoma and its implication on tumor immunology
Authors: Zhou Shujing , Huang Xufeng , Gábor Szöllősi Attila , Chien Yi Che Chang
Published: July 2022

PurposePancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is one of the deadliest cancers, with less than 10% of patients surviving more than 5 years. Existing biomarkers for accurate prediction of survival rate remain to be improved. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to develop a novel immune-related gene prognostic index (IRGPI) for enhanced overall survival (OS) estimation and to investigate the molecular subtypes based on this index. Materials and proceduresRNA sequences and matching clinical data were obtained from publicly accessible sources and processed by different R packages. Through the approach of machine learning, a novel IRGPI and optimal risk model were developed to classify patients into high- and low-risk groups. Our model's predictive ability was then compared to that of previously proposed gene signatures. Furthermore, a correlation analysis between the immunological tumor microenvironment and risk groups and IRGPI genes was performed. In addition, using the K-mean algorithm, we classified PAAD into various molecular subtypes based on IRGPI genes and investigated their properties in tumor immunology.ResultsA 12-gene (FYN, MET, LRSAM1, PSPN, ERAP2, S100A1, IL20RB, MAP3K14, SEMA6C, PRKCG, CXCL11, and GH1) IRGPI was established along with a risk model and verified. Compared to earlier gene signatures, our model exhibited superior prediction performance. Different risk groups showed distinct immune-related scores, according to the results of the correlation studies. IRGPI genes were revealed to be highly relevant to the microenvironment of tumors. On the basis of the IRGPI genes, PAAD was further subdivided into discrete, immunologically unique molecular subtypes.ConclusionA novel IRGPI was established and validated in the present study. In addition, our study highlights its association with the immune microenvironment of tumors. According to the IRGPI genes, PAAD was subdivided into distinct molecular subgroups that respond variably to immunotherapy. These findings may benefit future immune therapy-based interventions for PAAD patients, sharing new insight for precision and translational medicine to discover a more innovative immunotherapy strategy.
Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite as a Side Effect of Fingolimod
Authors: Etemadifar Masoud , Khorvash Reza , Zolfagharifard Hamed , Sedaghat Nahad , Nouri Hosein , Salari Mehri
Published: July 2022

Background and Purpose: Fingolimod, a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator, is a drug for treatment multiple sclerosis. Since S1P receptors are highly expressed in various tissues, it could cause broad range of side effects. We investigated the effect of fingolimod on appetite and body weight.Methods: This study evaluated 218 MS patients on fingolimod in Isfahan MS center (IMSC) from 2016 to 2020. They were requested to fill out the relevant questionnaires for this study, and Proper examinations were performed on patients with a history of appetite changes after taking fingolimod.Result: Among 218 patients, 33 cases reported changes in their appetite after taking fingolimod. Of these, 25 cases were associated with clinically important IWL. Furthermore, these 33 patients recuperated from loss of appetite and weight, after stopping fingolimod therapy. Conclusion: the percentage of decreased appetite in patients on fingolimod is noticeable. Therefore, it is necessary to refer patients taking this drug to a nutritionist, and advise them to pay more attention to their diet.
Evaluation of Predictive capability of Bayesian Spatio-temporal models for Covid-19 spread
Authors: Lawson Andrew
Published: July 2022

Bayesian models have been applied throughout the Covid-19 pandemic especially to model time series of case counts or deaths. Fewer examples exist of spatio-temporal modeling, even though the spatial spread of disease is a crucial factor in public Health monitoring. The predictive capabilities of infectious disease models is also important. In this study, the ability of Bayesian hierarchical models to recover different parts of the variation in disease counts is the focus. It is clear that different measures provide different views of behavior when models are fitted prospectively. A particularly important result is that the peak intensity of case load is often under-estimated, while random spikes in case load can be mimicked using time dependent random effects.
Dirac Equation Redux by Direct Quantization of the 4-Momentum Vector
Authors: Andoni S.
Published: July 2022

The Dirac equation (DE) is a cornerstone of quantum physics. We prove that direct quantization of the 4-momentum vector p with modulus equal to the rest energy m (c =1) yields a manifestly covariant equation with the frame-free operator p. In coordinate representation, this is equivalent to DE with spacetime frame vectors eu replacing Dirac’s gamma-matrices. Recall that standard DE is not manifestly covariant. Adding an independent Hermitian vector e5 to the spacetime basis {eu} allows to accommodate the momentum operator in a real vector space with a complex structure arising alone from vectors and multivectors. The real vector space generated from the action of the Clifford or geometric product onto the quintet {e0, e1, e2, e3, e5} has dimension 32, the same as the equivalent real dimension for the space of Dirac matrices. e5 proves defining for the C& CPT symmetries, distinction of axial vs. polar vectors, left and right handed rotors & spinors, etc. Therefore, we name it reflector and {e0, e1, e2, e3, e5} a basis for spacetime-reflection (STR). The pentavector I = e05123 commutes with all elements of STR and depicts the pseudoscalar in STR. We develop the formalism by deriving all essential results from the novel STR DE: spin ½ magnetic angular momentum, conserved probability currents, symmetries and nonrelativistic approximation. In simple terms, we demonstrate how Dirac matrices are a redundant representation of spacetime-reflection frame vectors. All properties of the Dirac electron / positron spring in STR from the special relativistic 4- momentum and the postulate of quantization.
THE MONETARY TRANSMISSION MECHANISM: THE THEORETICAL ASPECT
Authors: Kubakh T. , Kovalova Ye.
Published: July 2022

The main task of monetary policy is the implementation of management decisions in the direction of regulating the processes in the financial market and the speed of cash flows with the necessary exchange rate or inflation. At the same time, the indirect goal or main task is sustainable economic growth. Accordingly, the study of the principles of operation, features of the application of certain instruments of monetary policy at different stages of development of the financial system and the state of the real sector of the economy determines the importance of transmission (transmission) mechanism. The practical value of the transmission mechanism lies in the reflection of the relationship between monetary policy pursued by the central bank and economic growth of the state. The aim of the research is to analyze the existing approaches to the essence of monetary policy in particular and the transmission mechanism in order to identify the most effective channels for economic growth under the current conditions of the financial system. Methodology and scientific approaches: methods of systematization, comparison, structural analysis, logical generalization, bibliometric analysis were used (using VOSviewer 1.6.15). The analysis of scientific publications allowed to determine the tools and methods of monetary policy, as well as the main transmission channels and directions of their impact on the economy.
The results of the study made it possible to assert the lack of a single effective approach to the implementation of monetary policy that would clearly increase the rate of economic growth. A number of measures depend primarily on the targeting regime chosen by the central bank and the stated principles of monetary policy. With the right tool chosen and the channel of influence determined, the state's economy will respond with positive changes, which will be reflected in increasing GDP, welfare, and as a consequence of increasing domestic consumption and increasing the number of investment processes.
Intensive development of the economy with parallel targeting of inflation will create additional jobs, increase wages, which contributes to the accumulation of resources for investment in the real sector of the economy. Further empirical research will determine the most effective channels of the transmission mechanism, taking into account the stage of development and strategy of the state, which will allow it to strengthen its position in the global environment and mitigate the impact of negative factors.
ENTERPRISE CROP CAPACITY MANAGEMENT BASED ON THE USE OF FORECASTING MEANS
Authors: Sheremet A. , Bondar T.
Published: July 2022

The planning function is one of the basic management functions. Improving business planning is an extremely important task in a dynamic, heterogeneous and uncertain environment. Improving the planning function through the use of modern forecasting tools is of particular importance for agricultural enterprises, as many external factors of activity and development are stochastic and complex, related to natural conditions. Forecasting will increase the efficiency of the enterprise in the current period, as well as develop and implement long-term development plans. The purpose of the study is to determine and study the forecast indicators of enterprise crop capacity, study the degree of its dependence on factors of influence − the cost of fertilizers, average temperature, number of sunny days, rainfall and soil pH, and develop measures to improve management to increase enterprise productivity. A system approach, general scientific methods (analysis, synthesis, abstraction, specification), as well as forecasting methods using the tools of Microsoft Excel have been used in the research process.
The results of the study are the development of measures to improve the planning of the enterprise on the basis of the cycle of forecast calculations of the selected management parameter − the crop capacity of the enterprise. Promising areas of further research are the development of productivity forecasts using other methods of mathematical statistics, construction of more complex mathematical models (eg, simulation models), justification of their practical application and dissemination of their use among other businesses at other levels of the economic system (regional, etc.). The results of the study can be implemented in the practice of agricultural enterprises, including the development of forecast models for other indicators of the object of management. The results of the study are also of social significance, as ensuring the success of agricultural enterprises solves food problems, environmental problems and more.
Metodologias Ativas no Ensino de Enfermagem: Impactos no Desempenho dos Estudantes
Authors: Dalgallo Lidia , Monteiro Castilho Foggiatto Silveira Rosemari
Published: July 2022

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a aplicação de metodologias ativas de ensino-aprendizagem nas disciplinas da Graduação em enfermagem e o seu impacto no desempenho dos estudantes e no desenvolvimento do Estágio Curricular Supervisionado. O estudo foi realizado a partir da revisão integrativa da literatura, utilizando-se a técnica Pico para embasamento na definição da composição do tema e da questão norteadora. A amostra obtida em 36 artigos demonstra a aplicação de metodologias ativas de aprendizagem em disciplinas variadas na Graduação em Enfermagem. Os estudos analisados mostram que a aplicação de metodologias ativas de ensino-aprendizagem contribui para o desenvolvimento de competências técnicas, cognitivas e comportamentais. Considera-se, no entanto, necessário expandir a aplicação de metodologias ativas em diversos momentos da formação, visando a contribuir para a aquisição e o desenvolvimento de habilidades e competências intrínsecas aos processos assistenciais necessárias à atuação prática.