bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlating the stress-strain behavior of the ring expansion technique with the conventional tensile test
Authors: Abdelgawad Khaled , Nassef Ahmed , Eraky Mohamed , Saber Mohammed
Published: January 2023

Background
The ring expansion technique is a non-standardized material testing used to evaluate round tubes’ mechanical properties such as burst pressure and stress-strain behavior, however, this technique has limitations such as lack of suggested specimen geometry, strain measurement technique, and friction coefficient(s) estimation.
Objective
This study primarily aims to evaluate the stress-strain property in the hoop direction for seamless pipes with a further correlation with the tensile stress-strain curve. Moreover, investigating the specimen’s geometry effect on the results was also considered throughout the study.
Methods
Experimental, simulation, and analytical techniques were carried out and through their conjunction, it was applicable to estimate hard-to-measure coefficients, identify and evaluate new correction factors, and validate the simulation and analytical results.
Results
Experimental strain measurements were performed by derived analytical equation rather than an external measuring device, novel evaluation of the hoop stress correction value (K) was performed by the comparison between experimental and simulation work, in addition to a convenient similarity between the standard tensile test and the non-conventional proposed technique results.
Conclusion
The ring expansion test is a promising technique to evaluate the seamless pipes' burst pressure, stress-strain behavior, and other mechanical properties. Furthermore, the authors recommend future work regarding estimating both pressure dissipation factor (α) in terms of friction coefficients and hoop stress correction value (K) in terms of ring’s geometry.
Persistent incisional pain at 1 year after craniotomy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Phoowanakulchai Sirima , Ida Mitrusu , Naito Yusuke , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: January 2023

Background
There have been few reports on persistent incisional pain at 1 year after craniotomy. Hence, this study aimed to explore the distribution of pain at 1 year after elective craniotomy and its related factors.
Methods
This retrospective study included data prospectively collected to assess postoperative functional disability. We included patients aged > 55 years at the time of recruitment for our initial study and who had complete data regarding the pain numeric rating scale (NRS) score at 1 year post craniotomy. The primary outcome was the pain NRS score, which was assessed at the postanesthetic clinic as well as at 3 months and 1 year after craniotomy. Multivariable negative binomial regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between the pain NRS score at 1 postoperative year and 12 clinically meaningful covariates. These included the Short Form-8 scores for bodily pain and mental health, with higher scores indicating better health.
Results
We analyzed data from 102 patients. The mean (95% confidence interval) pain NRS scores at the three measurement points were 2.8 (2.3–3.3), 1.2 (0.8–1.6), and 0.6 (0.3–0.8), respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed that preoperative bodily pain (risk ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.88–0.98) and the pain NRS score at the postanesthetic clinic (risk ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–1.52) were associated with the risk of persistent pain at 1 postoperative year.
Conclusions
The pain score at 1 year after elective craniotomy was minor; however, preoperative bodily pain and postoperative pain scores were significantly related factors.
The Relationship Between Attachment Styles and Loneliness: The Mediating Role of Early Maladaptive Schemas
Authors: Jalilian Kosar , Momeni Khodamorad , Jebraeili Hashem
Published: January 2023

As with the increasing prevalence of loneliness among college students, it seems necessary to investigate the early grounds of its formation. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between attachment styles and loneliness through the mediating role of early maladaptive schemas (EMS). This was a correlational research, of structural equations modeling (SEM) type. The statistical population included all the college students of the universities of Kermanshah in the academic year 2020–2021, of whom 338 were selected using convenience sampling. The measures used in this study included DiTomasso et al’s social and emotional loneliness of adults, Hazan and Shaver’s adult attachment, and Young’s schema scales. For data analysis, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and SEM were used in Lisrel 8.8 and SPSS-22 software. The results illustrated that the hypothesized model of the study has a good fit in the studied sample. It was also found that both the avoidant and ambivalent attachment styles are related to loneliness through two EMS of disconnection-rejection and other-directedness. Based on this, measures are recommended to increase information regarding the basic and underlying factors affecting loneliness for therapists and psychological specialists.
Cardiovascular and psychosocial risks among young patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Faresjo Ashild , Karlsson Jan-Erik , Segerberg Henrik , Faresjo Tomas , Lebena Andrea
Published: January 2023

Background: Despite improvements in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease since the 1960s, the incidence of cardiovascular diseases among young people has remained the same for many years. This study aimed to compare the clinical and psychosocial attributes of young persons affected by myocardial infarction under the age of 50 years compared to middle-aged myocardial infarction patients 51-65 years old.
Methods: Data from patients with a documented STEMI or NSTEMI elevated acute myocardial infarction in the age groups up to 65 years, were collected from cardiology clinics at three hospitals in southeast Sweden. The Stressheart study comprised a total of 213 acute myocardial infarction patients, of which n=33 (15.5%) were under 50 years of age and n=180 (84.5%) were middle-aged, (51-65 years). These acute myocardial infarction patients filled in a questionnaire at discharge from the hospital and further information through documentation of data in their medical records.
Results: Blood pressure was significantly higher in young compared to middle-aged patients. For diastolic blood pressure (p=0.003), systolic blood pressure (p=0.028), and mean arterial pressure (p=0.005). Young AMI patients had a higher (p=0.030) body mass index (BMI) than the middle-aged. Young AMI patients were reported to be more stressed (p=0.042), had more frequently experienced a serious life event the previous year (p=0.029), and felt less energetic (p=0.044) than middle-aged AMI patients.
Conclusions: This study revealed, that persons under the age of 50 affected by acute myocardial infarction exhibit traditional cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure, and higher BMI, and were more exposed to some psychosocial risk factors. The risk profile of these young persons affected by AMI was in some respects more exaugurated than for middle-aged persons with AMI. This study underlines the importance of the early discovery of those at increased risk and encourages preventative actions to focus on both clinical and psychosocial risk factors.
Reducing anastomotic leakage in TaTME by mucosal coverage of staple lines: a pilot study with preliminary results.
Authors: Deguchi Katsuya , Hirano Yasumitsu , Okazaki Naoto
Published: January 2023

Purpose
We have performed a single stapled anastomosis with double purse-string sutures as a Trans anal Total Mesorectal Excision (TaTME) reconstruction for low rectal cancer. We report an attempt to control local infection and reduce anastomotic leakage (AL) at this anastomotic site.
Patients and Methods
Fifty-one patients who underwent TaTME for low rectal cancer from April 2021 to October 2022 were included. TaTME was performed by two teams, and reconstruction was performed by anastomosis with a single stapling technique (SST). After the anastomosis was thoroughly cleaned, Z sutures were placed parallel to the staple line to suture the mucosa on the oral and anal side of the staple line and to cover the staple line circumferentially. Data on operative time, Distal Margin (DM), recurrence and postoperative complications including AL were prospectively collected.
Results
The mean age of patients was 67 years. There were 36 males and 15 females. The overall mean operative time was 283.1 minutes, and the mean Distal Margin was 2.2 cm. Postoperative complications were observed in 5.9% of the patients, but no AL was observed, nor any serious complications with Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 grade. Of the 49 cases excluding Stage 4, postoperative recurrence was observed in 2 cases (4.9%).
Conclusion
In patients with lower rectal cancer who underwent TaTME, additional mucosal coverage of the anastomotic staple line by transanal manipulation after reconstruction may be associated with a reduction in the incidence of postoperative AL. Further studies including late anastomotic complications are needed.
Prevalence, risk and spatial distribution of schistosomiasis among adults to promote Universal Health Coverage: a cross-sectional study in Madagascar
Authors: Gruninger Sarah Katharina , Rasamoelina Tahinamandranto , Rakotoarivelo Rivo Andry , Razafindrakoto Anjarasoa , Rasolojaona Zaraniaina Tahiry , Rakotozafy Rodson Morin , Soloniaina Patrick Richard , Rakotozandrindrainy Njary , Rausche Pia , Doumbia Cheick Oumar , Jaeger Anna , Zerbo Alexandre , von Thien Heidrun , Klein Philipp , Dam Govert van , Tannich Egbert , Schwarz Norbert Georg , Lorenz Eva , May Jürgen , Rakotozandrindrainy Raphael , Fusco Daniela
Published: January 2023

Background: The goal to eliminate the parasitic disease of poverty schistosomiasis as a public health problem is aligned with the 2030 United Nations agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, including Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Current control strategies focus on school-aged children, systematically neglecting adults. We aimed at providing evidence for the need of shifting the paradigm of schistosomiasis control programs from targeted to generalized approaches as key element for both the elimination of schistosomiasis as a public health problem and the promotion of UHC.
Methods: In a cross-sectional study we determined prevalence and risk factors for schistosomiasis by a semi-quantitative PCR assay from specimens collected from 1,482 adult participants at three primary health-care centers in north-western and central areas of Madagascar.
Results: The highest prevalence of S. mansoni, S. haematobium and co-infection of both species was 59.5%, 61.3% and 3.3%, respectively. Higher prevalence was observed among males and main contributors to the family income. Not working as a farmer and higher age were found to be protective factors for infection.
Conclusions: Our findings provide evidence that adults are a high-risk group for schistosomiasis. The general focus on children and the exclusion of adults from control strategies for schistosomiasis in high endemic countries may hamper the achievement of both the schistosomiasis elimination goal and UHC. Our data suggests that, for ensuring basic health as a human right, current public health strategies for schistosomiasis prevention and control need to be re-addressed towards more context specific, holistic and integrated approaches.
Potential effect of Chloroquine and Propranolol combination to treat colorectal and triple-negative breast cancers
Authors: Emanuel Anselmino Luciano , Virginia Baglioni María , Georgina Reynoso , Rosa Rozados Viviana , Graciela Scharovsky Olga , José Rico María , Mauricio Menacho-Márquez
Published: January 2023

Drug repositioning explores the reuse of non-cancer drugs to treat tumors. In this work, we evaluated the effect of the combination of chloroquine and propranolol on colorectal and triple-negative breast cancers.
Using as in vitromodels the colorectal cancer cell lines HCT116, HT29, and CT26, and as triple-negative breast cancer models the 4T1, M-406, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, we evaluated the effect of the drugs combination on the viability, apoptosis, clonogenicity, and cellular migratory capacity. To explore the in vivo effects of the combination on tumor growth and metastasis development we employed graft models in BALB/c, nude, and CBi mice.
In vitro studies showed that combined treatment decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner and increased apoptosis. Also, we demonstrated that these drugs act synergically and that it affects clonogenicity and migration. In vivo studies indicated that this drug combination was effective on colorectal models but only partially on breast cancer. These results contributed to the search for new and safe treatments for colorectal and triple-negative carcinomas.
Simultaneous multi-crop land suitability prediction from remote sensing data using semi-supervised learning
Authors: Bhullar Amanjot , Nadeem Khurram , Ali R. Ayesha
Published: January 2023

This study presents an artificial neural network based model that can simultaneously estimate land suitability for barley, peas, spring wheat, canola, oats, and soy in Canada leading to more accurate predictions than single-crop models. The novelties in the modelling method include using an indicator function which allows for a multivariate model to be trained, and a semi-supervised learning approach which allows for training with unlabelled data. The model performs well on land not used in the training set, as demonstrated by both K-fold cross-validation and a visual comparison of crop inventory to predicted land suitability in northern Alberta. The predicted suitability of crops correspond with a region's growing season length; this is in line with literature. Northern Canada is almost completely unused for agriculture, but this may change in the coming decades due to the climate becoming more favorable for agriculture. The model presented in this work can allow for a precise cost benefit analysis regarding environmental damage and economic benefits of cultivating new lands in Canada.
An oral cancer vaccine using a Bifidobacterium vector enhances the efficacy of combination therapy with anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 antibodies in a mouse renal cell carcinoma model
Authors: Ueki Hideto , Kitagawa Koichi , Kato Mako , Yanase Shihoko , Okamura Yasuyoshi , Bando Yukari , Hara Takuto , Terakawa Tomoaki , Furukawa Junya , Nakano Yuzo , Fujisawa Masato , Shirakawa Toshiro
Published: January 2023

Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) based combination therapies, including anti-PD-1 antibody, nivolumab with anti-CTLA-4 antibody, and ipilimumab have become the primary treatment option for metastatic or unresectable renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, despite the combination of two ICIs, 60 to 70% of patients are still resistant to first-line cancer immunotherapy.
In the present study, undertook combination immunotherapy for RCC using an oral cancer vaccine (Bifidobacterium longum displaying WT1 tumor associated antigen (B. longum 420)) with anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 antibodies in a mouse syngeneic model of RCC to explore possible synergistic effects. We found that B. longum 420 significantly improved the survival of mice bearing RCC tumors treated by anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 antibodies compared to the mice treated by the antibodies alone. This result suggests that B. longum 420 oral cancer vaccine as an adjunct to ICIs could provide a novel treatment option for RCC patients.
Our microbiome analysis revealed that the proportion of Lactobacilli was significantly increased by B. longum 420. Although the detailed mechanism of action is unknown, it is possible that microbiome alteration by B. longum 420 enhances the efficacy of the ICIs.
A Smartphone-based Zero-Effort Method for Mitigating Epidemic Propagation
Authors: Wang Qu , Fu Meixia , Wang Jianquan , Sun Lei , Huang Rong , Li Xianda , Jiang Zhuqing
Published: January 2023

A large number of epidemics, including COVID-19 and SARS, spread through droplets, quickly swept the world and claimed the precious lives of large numbers of people. Building a low-cost and real-time epidemic early warning system to identify individuals who have been in contact with infected individuals and determine whether they need to be quarantined is an effective means to mitigate the spread of the epidemic. In this paper, we propose a smartphone-based zero-effort epidemic warning method for mitigating epidemic propagation. Firstly, we recognize epidemic-related voice activity relevant to epidemics spread by hierarchical attention mechanism and temporal convolutional network. The hierarchical attention mechanism is used to find local important information through global scanning, then enhances useful information and suppresses useless information. Subsequently, we estimate the social distance between users through sensors built-in smartphone. Furthermore, we combine Wi-Fi network logs and social distance to comprehensively judge whether there is spatiotemporal contact between users and determine the duration of contact. Finally, we estimate infection risk based on epidemic-related vocal activity, social distance, and contact time. We conduct a large number of well-designed experiments in typical scenarios to fully verify the proposed method. The proposed method does not rely on any additional infrastructure and historical training data, which is conducive to integration with epidemic prevention and control systems and large-scale applications.
Responsive manganese-based nanoplatform amplifying cGAS-STING activation for immunotherapy
Authors: He Qingbin , Zheng Runxiao , Ma Junchi , Zhao Luyang , Shi Yafang , Qiu Jianfeng
Published: January 2023

Background: The activation of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) signaling pathway has attracted great attention for its ability to up-regulate innate immune response and thus enhance cancer immunotherapy. However, many STING agonists limit the further advancement of immunotherapy due to weak tumor responsiveness or low activation efficiency. The responsive and effective activation of cGAS-STING signaling in tumors is a highly challenging process.
Methods: In this study, a manganese-based nanoplatform (MPCZ NPs) was constructed that could responsively and efficiently generate more manganese ions (Mn2+) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to activate cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Briefly, manganese dioxide (MnO2) was loaded with zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZPP) molecule and coated by polydopamine (PDA) embedded with NH4HCO3 to obtain MPCZ NPs. Additionally, MPCZ NPs were evaluated in vitro and in vivo for their antitumor effects by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay and TUNEL assays, respectively.
Results: In this system, tumor responsiveness was achieved by exogenous (laser irradiation) and endogenous (high levels GSH) stimulation, which triggered the collapse or degradation of PDA and MnO2. Moreover, the release of Mn2+ augmented the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and enhanced the conversion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to hydroxyl radical (·OH) under NIR laser irradiation. Furthermore, the release of ZPP and the elimination of GSH by MPCZ NPs inhibited HO-1 activity and prevented ROS consumption, respectively.
Conclusions: This adopted open source and reduce expenditure strategy to effectively generate more ROS and Mn2+ to responsively activate cGAS-STING signaling pathway, providing a new strategy for improving immunotherapy.
Association Between Hypertension and the Prevalence of Liver Steatosis and Fibrosis
Authors: Fu Huanjie , Yu Hao , Zhao Yisheng , Chen Jinhong , Liu Zhaochao
Published: January 2023

Background
Hypertension (HTN) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) usually occur together and have some common pathophysiological symptoms. In this study, we determined the relationship between HTN status and the rates of liver steatosis and fibrosis based on the liver stiffness measurement and controlled attenuation parameter obtained by performing liver transient ultrasound elastography (TUE).
Methods
To perform this cross-sectional study, data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2017-March 2020 Pre-pandemic cycle. The relationship between HTN and the rates of liver steatosis and fibrosis was analyzed by constructing a multivariate logistic regression model. We also conducted subgroup analyses based on the age, gender, ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI) of the patients.
Results
In total, 4,837 participants were recruited, including 2,375 participants with HTN and 2,462 participants without HTN. After adjusting possible confounders, HTN was positively related to the liver steatosis rate (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.8). Such HTN-associated incidences were higher among males (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1–2.3), non-Hispanic African American individuals (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.5), and participants with BMI ≥ 25 < 30 kg/m2 (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1–2.5). Additionally, HTN was positively associated with the fibrosis rate (OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3–3.0), especially among females (OR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.3–5.1), among individuals who were 40–59 years old (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1–4.6), 60–80 years old (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2–4.1), non-Hispanic Caucasian (OR = 3.0, 95% CI: 1.6–5.9), among those with BMI ≥ 25 < 30 kg/m2 (OR = 3.0, 95% CI: 1.1–8.1), and those with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2–3.3).
Conclusions
The results of this study showed that HTN status was positively associated with liver steatosis and fibrosis rates, especially for subjects with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. The relationship was also affected by the ethnicity of the participants.
Predicting ambient PM2.5 concentrations via time series models in Anhui Province, China
Authors: Hasnain Ahmad , Hashmi Muhammad Zaffar , Ahmed Zulkifl , Bhatti Uzair Aslam , Akhter Zaeem Hassan , Min Xiangqiang , Yue Yin , He Yufeng , Nadeem Basit , Wei Geng
Published: January 2023

Due to rapid expansion in the global economy and industrialization, PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter) pollution has become a key environmental issue. The public health and social development directly affected by high PM2.5 levels. In this paper, ambient PM2.5 concentrations along with meteorological data are forecasted using time series models, including random forest (RF), prophet forecasting model (PFM) and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) in Anhui province, China. The results indicate that the RF model outperformed the PFM and ARIMA in the prediction of PM2.5 concentrations, with cross-validation coefficients of determination R2, RMSE and MAE values of 0.80, 11.50 µg/m3 and 8.13 µg/m3, respectively. PFM achieved the average results (R2 = 0.73, RMSE = 13.21 µg/m3 and MAE = 9.17 µg/m3), while the predicted results by ARIMA are comparatively poorer (R2 = 0.63, RMSE = 15.56 µg/m3 and MAE = 10.64 µg/m3) than RF and PFM. These findings reveal that the RF model is the most effective method for predicting PM2.5 and can be applied to other regions for new findings.
Consensus insertion/deletions and amino acid variations of all coding and noncoding regions of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron clades, including the XBB and BQ.1 lineages
Authors: Soeharsono Hamong , Mahardika Bayu K. , Sudipa Putu H. , Sari Tri K. , Suardana Ida B. K. , Mahardika Gusti Ngurah
Published: January 2023

The currently dominant Omicron variant of the severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has swiftly diverged into clades. To predict the probable impact of clades, the consensus insertions/deletions (indels) and amino acid substitutions of the whole genome of clades were compared with original SARS-CoV-2. The indels and polymorphic amino acids were clade specific or shared among clades. The 21K clade has unique indels and substitutions, which probably represents reverted indels/substitutions. Three observed probable indirect evidences of SARS-CoV-2 attenuation in Omicron clades were deletion in Nucleocapsid, deletion in 3’-untranslated region, and truncation in open reading frame 8.
Structural and functional analysis of 31 HbMYB gene family members in rubber tree leaves
Authors: Liu Mingyang , Fan Songle , Yang Hong , Guo Bingbing , Dai Longjun , Wang Lifeng
Published: January 2023

The plant MYB transcription factor family participates in growth, differentiation, metabolism, and biotic and abiotic stress responses. The functions of HbMYBs in rubber tree leaves remain to be elucidated. In this study, molecular biology, bioinformatics and plant pathology techniques were used to identify and analyze HbMYB gene family members in rubber tree leaves. According to the results, 31 members of the HbMYB gene family were identified in the rubber tree. They were divided into 10 subgroups and were characterized by 3 unique motifs, in which 25 HbMYB members have R2R3-MYB conserved structural domains. Expression analysis revealed that the members of the HbMYB family were mainly expressed in flowers. The expression of the S22 and S20 subgroups increased significantly in powdery mildew-infected leaves. The expression of 10 HbMYBs was significantly induced by ethylene treatment. These results provide fundamental knowledge for further studying the response of the HbMYB family to biotic and abiotic stresses in rubber tree.
Longitudinal relationships among career adaptability, resilience, and career commitment in Chinese nursing undergraduates: Testing differences in career interest between cross-lagged models
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Zhao chengjia , Li Feiyue , Wang Xiaoyi , Xu Huihui , Zhou Miaomiao , Huang Yiru , Yang Yeqin , Yu Guoliang , Zhang Guohua
Published: January 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A phosphorylation-deficient mutant of Sik3, a homolog of Sleepy, alters circadian sleep regulation by PDF neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Kobayashi Riho , Nakane Shin , Tomita Jun , Funato Hiromasa , Yanagisawa Masashi , Kume Kazuhiko
Published: January 2023

Sleep behavior has been observed from non-vertebrates to humans. Sleepymutation in mice resulted in a notable increase in sleep and was identified as an exon-skipping mutation of the salt-inducible kinase 3 (Sik3)gene, conserved among animals. The skipped exon contains a serine residue that is phosphorylated by protein kinase A. Overexpression of a mutant gene with the conversion of this serine into alanine (Sik3-SA) increased sleep in both mice and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. However, the mechanism how Sik3-SA increases sleep remains unclear. Here, we found, in Drosophila, that Sik3-SA overexpression in all neurons increased sleep both under light-dark (LD) conditions and constant dark (DD) conditions, and its overexpression only in PDF neurons, which is the center of circadian clock, increased sleep during subjective daytime with decreasing the amplitude of circadian rhythm. Moreover, suppression of Sik3-SA overexpression only in PDF neurons in flies overexpressing Sik3-SA in all neurons reversed sleep increase during subjective daytime. In addition, Sik3-SA overexpression in all neurons did not affect the circadian rhythmicity of clock gene expression. These results indicate that Sik3-SA altered the circadian function of PDF neurons and resulted in the increase in sleep during subjective day under constant dark condition.
The effect of cognition in combination with an active cycle of breathing technique on dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: CAI Shasha , YAO Jinlan , HAN Maomao , LUO Xiaolin , YU Yudi , LU Xiaorong , XIANG Xinyue , HUANG Lihua
Published: January 2023

Background

The majority of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have a catastrophic perception of dyspnea and avoid physical activity, with moderate to severe COPD patients exhibiting more pronounced kinesiophobia. The fear-avoidance model suggests that kinesiophobia can be alleviated by reducing dyspnea symptoms and altering the catastrophic perception of dyspnea as an illness. However, we discovered that single inspiratory muscle training and cognitive change have limitations. This study combined cognition and exercise to examine the efficacy of cognitive therapy based on social cognitive theory combined with an active cycle of breathing technique in reducing dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in patients with moderate to severe COPD.

Methods

This research involved 106 participants. The control group (N = 53) got standard nursing, whereas the intervention group (N = 53) received cognitive combined with active cycle of breathing technology intervention for 8 weeks. Lung function, the breathlessness beliefs questionnaire, and other secondary outcomes were measured before and after the intervention. The breathlessness beliefs questionnaire was administered one, two and three months following the intervention. This study's statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 22.0 software.

Results

The between-group effects, within-group effects, and interaction effect of BBQ, BBQ-SF, and BBQ-AA scores in the intervention group were statistically significant (P<0.05) when compared to the control group. At the conclusion of the 8-week intervention, the intervention group's FVC, FEV1, and 6-minute walk distance were considerably greater than the control group's, while the intervention group's mMRC, BODE index, and CAT score were significantly lower (P<0.05). However, no significant change in FEV1% or FEV1/FVC was seen between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The misconception of dyspnea in COPD patients served as the starting point for this study, which integrated cognitive and exercise training. The combined intervention substantially improved dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in patients with moderate to severe COPD, and the effect remained significant when the intervention duration was extended. Furthermore, it may enhance dyspnea and quality of life, increase exercise capacity, and lower the BODE index.

Trial registration:

Code: ChiCTR2200058498, Date: 10/04/2022, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=164225
Psychometric Properties of the Environmental Factors’ Questionnaire for Undergraduate Medical Students Taking Online Learning during COVID 19 Pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Taleb Ola K. , Hamid Siti Azrin Ab , Abdullah Sarimah , Abusafia Ali H. , Baharuddin Kamarul Aryffin , Adnan Wan Nor Asyikeen Wan
Published: January 2023

Background
Environmental factors are important for students learning during online classes, especially during COVID-19. This study aimed to validate the environmental factors’ questionnaire during online learning.
Methods
A total of 218 undergraduate medical students at the Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia participated in a cross-sectional study that involved an online survey. Environmental factors scales were assessed with the 9-items Lighting, Noise and Temperature (LNT) scale and the 6-items Technology scale. Analysis was performed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA).
Results
The English version of LNT with nine items and three factors showed a good fit to the data with no item deleted. For lighting, noise and temperature, the Composite Reliability (CR) was 0.81, 0.81 and 0.84, respectively while the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) was 0.61, 0.59 and 0.6, respectively. The English version of the Technology scale with six items and one factor also showed a good fit to the data with no item deleted. The CR was 0.84, and AVE was 0.51.
Conclusions
The results give psychometric evidence for environmental questionnaire scales in evaluatingthe factors associated with online learning among Malaysian university medical students. All items were retained and confirmed to be fit for sample data.
Node importance evaluation in multi-platform avionics architecture based on TOPSIS and PageRank
Authors: Chang Liu , JinYan Wang , Rui Xia
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a node importance evaluation method for multi-platform avionics architecture oriented to collaborative task capability is proposed, aiming at the evaluation problem of node contribution under the air combat collaborator, focusing on the influence brought by collaborative task information activities, considering the charged relationship between nodes, link networking relationship, collaborative task style relationship, data information processing, storage mode, and other factors. The evaluation results mainly reflect the contribution and importance of nodes to collaborative tasks. First, the TOPSIS method was used to evaluate the overall contribution of nodes under different indicator scales. 2) Secondly, a PageRank evaluation method is proposed to reflect the node-pointing relationship. The comprehensive weight of nodes considers the rationality of TOPSIS and PageRank algorithms. 3) Finally, the information entropy method is used to evaluate the overall combat capability.
FBXW7 inhibits the Progression of ESCC by directly inhibiting the Stemness of Tumor Cells
Authors: Yang Yanfang , Bi Yanghui , Cheng Caixia , Tang Peisen , Xiao Heng , Yuan Fajia , Wu Weiwei , Yang Bin
Published: January 2023

Background
F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7), is an aboriginal and high frequency mutant gene associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study was designed to determine the clinical value and molecular mechanisms of FBXW7 in the development of ESCC.
Methods
The clinical significance of FBXW7 was analyzed in ESCC from TCGA data. The effects of FBXW7 on proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, angiogenesis and apoptosis were tested in ESCC cells. PCR-array, sphere formation assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR) were used to explore the mechanism of FBXW7.
Results
FBXW7 was a significantly mutated gene in ESCC. It was an independent and potential predictor for survival in ESCC patients. In addition, FBXW7 overexpression significantly inhibited ESCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and promoted cell apoptosis. PCR-array revealed that FBXW7 overexpression leads to a significant change of genes expression associated with angiogenesis, cell senescence and DNA damage and repair. Sphere formation assay and qPCR showed FBXW7 was associated with ESCC stem cell formation.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that FBXW7 may act as a tumor suppressor by repressing cancer stem cell formation and regulating tumor angiogenesis, cell senescence, DNA damage and repair in ESCC.
The Effect of Recombinant Fusion Peptide Capsular Biosynthesizing Enzymes A, C Streptococcus agalactiae and Anti-Cancer Peptide against Cell Line Hela by Real-time RT- PCR and Flow cytometry
Authors: Babakanrad Elmira , Mohammadian Taher , Esmaeili Davoud , Behzadi Payam
Published: January 2023

There have been numerous reports of the effect of the Streptococcus agalactiae peptide and its capsule products on cervical cancer. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of the recombinant anti-cancer protein CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN on the HeLa cell. The CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN sequence construction was obtained from NCBI. The Structure of CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN was examined using various bioinformatics software programs. After creating and cloning into the expression vector pET-22b (+), CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN was transferred to E. coli BL21(DE3). Nickel column chromatography and Western blotting were used to perform purification and confirmation of CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN. The 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) approach was utilized for investigating the cell-killing effect of different concentrations of CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN against the HeLa cell. Moreover, using Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (Real-time RT-PCR), the expression of apoptotic genes, like Bcl-2, caspase-3, and Bax before and after exposure to CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN was measured. Then, CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN impact on HeLa cells was examined by flow cytometry. The antibacterial properties of the CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN were evaluated by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test and the disk diffusion test. CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN at a concentration of 64µg/ml killed 50% of cancer cells in 24 hours and after the treatment of Hela cells with CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN protein, the expression of apoptosis genes, caspase-3 and Bax increased 16 and 6 times, respectively. Also, the expression of bcl-2 by 0.176 times decreased. According to the results of the flow cytometry test, after treatment with CpsA-CpsC-L-ACAN, the cancer cell population transitioned from the living phase to the apoptotic phase.
Optical coherence tomography angiography features in patients with idiopathic macular holes before and after vitrectomy
Authors: Qi Xuemin , Gao Fengjie , Gao Xiaoming , Liu Hongfei
Published: January 2023

Purpose
Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a novel noninvasive imaging tool for retinal and optic nerve head (ONH) perfusion. The study aimed to explore OCTA features in patients with idiopathic macular holes (IMHs) before and after vitrectomy.
Methods
The retrospective case series study included patients with IMHs diagnosed by OCT between June 2019 and June 2021 in our hospital. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), superficial and deep foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, blood flow density within 300µm width of FAZ (FD300) and the state of external limiting membrane (ELM) were examined by OCTA.
Results
Totally 26 patients (9 men and 17 women) aged 65.08 ± 5.09 years were included, with an average disease course of 154.15 ± 206.26 days. Visual acuity showed no improvement at 1 month but was improved at 6 months (P < 0.05). FAZ, superficial FAZ, deep FAZ, and FD300 showed a decreasing tendency at 1 month, indicating an amelioration following surgery. Though data within 6 months showed decreased efficacy over time, there were significant improvements compared with preoperative parameters (P < 0.05). The 1-month FAZ in the deep layer (P < 0.01) and FD300 (P < 0.01) were significantly increased in the ELM (+) group. The differences were more pronounced at 6 months (FAZ in the deep layer: P < 0.01; FD300: P < 0.01).
Conclusion
OCTA may dynamically monitor the neurovascular repair process of IMH and predict the prognosis of visual function after IMH operation.
Translation into Spanish and cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Problem Areas in Diabetes – Pediatric version (PAID-Peds) survey: study protocol
Authors: Casanovas-Marsal Josep-Oriol , Monzón Elisa Civitani , Duce Maria-Pilar Ferrer , Cuesta Delia González de la , Valverde Rosa Yelmo , Repiso Victoria Pérez , Manterola Irune Goicoechea , Muñoz Antonio de Arriba
Published: January 2023

Background
The metabolic and psychological management of pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can be challenging over time given that T1DM may cause a negative emotional burden and, consequently, result in poor metabolic control of the disease. The objectives of this study are to translate the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey–Pediatric version (PAID-Peds) into Spanish, adapt it culturally and validate it.
Methods
A multicenter, observational, prospective and analytical study based on a sample of 636 patients aged 8–17 years, diagnosed with T1DM, under treatment with insulin and follow-up at the Miguel Servet University Hospital in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain), the Ramón y Cajal University Clinical Hospital in Madrid (Spain) and at the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2024.
The study will consist of two phases: 1) Translation and cultural adaptation of the original PAID-Peds® survey into Spanish following eight steps; 2) Validation of the Spanish version of the PAIS-Peds® survey. The statistical analysis will be performed using Jamovi® 2.1.23, the reliability or internal consistency will be calculated using Cronbach’s alpha index (considering an index higher than 0.8 to be good) and the test-retest will be evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient. This study has been approved by the ethics and research committees at each center.
Discussion
Detecting the burden of having diabetes could favor early interventions to reduce anxiety and prevent the worsening of distress, exhaustion, and depressive symptoms, and subsequent poor diabetes control. Therapeutic education in diabetes—recommended by the WHO and the Diabetes Education Study Group—has shown encouraging results in glycemia and psychosocial and behavioral factors in T1DM.
Evaluation of colonic anastomosis healing using hybrid nanosheets containing Molybdenum disulfide (MOS2) scaffold of human placental amniotic membrane and Polycaprolactone (PCL) In rat animal model
Authors: Soltani Zahra Ebrahim , Elahi Mohammad , Tashak-Golroudbari Hasti , Nazari Hojjatollah , Heirani Asieh , Asbagh Reza Akbari , Ohadi Mohammad Amin Dabbagh , shabani Moojan , Sarzaeim Mojdeh , Kazemeini Alireza , Keramati Mohammad Reza , Behboudi Behnam , Tafti Seyed Mohsen Ahmadi
Published: January 2023

Purpose
Anastomosis is a standard technique following different conditions, such as obstruction, tumor, and trauma. Obstruction, adhesion, or anastomosis leakage can be some of its complications. To improve healing and prevent postoperative complications, we design a hybrid scaffold containing acellular human Amniotic membranes and Polycaprolactone-Molybdenum disulfide nanosheets for colon anastomosis.
Methods
The animal model of colocolonic anastomosis was performed on two groups of rats; control and scaffold. The hybrid scaffold was warped around the anastomosis site in the scaffold group. Samples from the anastomosis site were resected on the third and seventh postoperative days for histopathological and molecular assessment.
Results
Histopathologic score and burst pressure had shown significant improvement in the scaffold group. No mortality and anastomosis leakage was reported in the scaffold group. In addition, inflammatory markers were significantly decreased, while anti-inflammatory cytokines were increased in the scaffold group.
Conclusion
The result indicates that our hybrid scaffold is a proper choice for colorectal anastomosis repair by declining postoperative complications and accelerating healing.
Folic Acid Deficiency in severe hypothyroidism: a Case Report and a Review of Literature
Authors: Adan Abdisamad Mohamed , Siyad Mohamed Osman , Jeele Mohamed Osman Omar
Published: January 2023

Folate deficiency can be caused by an insufficient diet, conditions that impede folate absorption, certain medications, and congenital problems. It may also be resulted from alcoholism, pregnancy, breastfeeding, hemolytic anemia, and dialysis. According to the European prevalence estimates, hypothyroidism affects up to 5% of the population, while up to 5% of the community may very well have unrecognized thyroid insufficiency. Although, it’s widely accepted that the most common type of anemia in hypothyroidism patients is normocytic normochromic anemia as reported by various studies, macrocytic anemia in case of folic acid deficiency can also occur. Folic acid deficiency can present with a newly diagnosed hypothyroidism as in our case. Despite the relationship between hypothyroidism and folic acid deficiency, it has not been studied deservedly and the case reports with this combination are scarce in the literature. In this case report, we present a case of 22-year- old woman who presented with folic acid deficiency anemia and hypothyroidism. The patient symptoms improved after treatment with folic acid and thyroid replacement therapy.
Selection signatures and population dynamics of transposable elements in Lima bean
Authors: Lozano-Arce Daniela , Garcia Tatiana , Gonzalez-Garcia Laura , Guyot Romain , Sanchez Maria , Duitama Jorge
Published: January 2023

The domestication process in Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) involves at least two independent events, within the Mesoamerican and Andean gene pools. Both processes produced similar phenotypic changes in landraces, making Lima bean an excellent model to understand convergent evolution. Despite recent research efforts, the mechanisms of adaptation followed by Mesoamerican and Andean landraces are largely unknown. The genes related to these adaptations can be selected by identification of selective sweeps within gene pools. Most of the previous genetic analyses in Lima bean have relied on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) loci and have ignored transposable elements (TEs) which are a major source of variation in plant genomes. The current availability of high-throughput sequencing technologies enables the collection of whole-genome resequencing (WGS) data to approach intraspecies population dynamics of TEs. The present research collected WGS data from 60 wild and domesticated Lima bean accessions to generate the most complete characterization developed to date of transposable elements and SNP loci in the Lima bean genome. We generated an updated annotation of 223,780 transposable elements in the Lima bean genome. Furthermore, we identified genes and variable TEs affected by selective sweeps. Combining three different approaches, selective sweeps were predicted to generate a set of domestication candidate genes. A small percentage of genes under selection (1.6%) were shared among gene pools, suggesting that domestication followed different genetic avenues in both gene pools. Up to 25% of the genes with previously reported selective sweeps in common bean were also detected in Lima bean. We also built a catalog of 39,459 TEs with presence-absence variation (PAV). The fact that 75% of these TEs were located close to genes shows their potential to affect gene functions in Lima bean. The genetic structure inferred from variable TEs was consistent with that obtained from SNP markers, suggesting that TE dynamics can be related to the demographic history of wild and domesticated Lima bean and its adaptive processes, in particular selection processes during domestication.
Predicting Radiation Esophagitis using 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT in Patients with LA-ESCC Treated with Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Hu Xinying , Han Xiao , Zhang Mingquan , Mu Zhengshuai , Fu Zheng , Ren Jiazhong , Qiao Kailin , Jia Jing , Yu Jinming , Yuan Shuanghu , Wei Yuchun
Published: January 2023

Purpose:
This prospective study examined whether 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT can predict the development and severity of radiation esophagitis (RE) in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (LA-ESCC) treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
Methods:
From June 2021 to March 2022, images were prospectively collected from LA-ESCC patients who underwent 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT examinations before and during radiotherapy. The development of RE was evaluated weekly according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group criterion. The target-to-background ratio in blood (TBRblood) was analyzed at each time point and correlated with the onset and severity of RE. Factors that predicted RE were identified by multivariate logistic analyses.
Results:
Thirty patients (median age, 66.5 years [interquartile range: 56–71 years]; 22 men) were evaluated. Significantly higher TBRblood (during radiotherapy, mean: 3.06 vs 7.11, P = 0.003) and change in TBRblood compared with pre-RT (ΔTBRblood, mean: 0.67 vs 4.81, P = 0.002) were observed in patients with RE than patients without RE. Those with grade 3 RE had a significantly higher TBRblood (during radiotherapy, mean: 4.55 vs 9.66, P = 0.003) and ΔTBRblood (mean: 2.16 vs 7.50, P = 0.003) compared with those with RE < grade 3. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified TBRblood (during radiotherapy, AUC = 0.902; AUC = 0.912) and ΔTBRblood (AUC = 0.911; AUC = 0.922) as significant predictors of the development of RE and specifically grade 3 RE. On multivariate analysis, ΔTBRblood was identified as a significant predictor of both RE (P = 0.021) and grade 3 RE (P = 0.038).
Conclusion:
The ΔTBRblood on 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT may be effective at identifying patients at risk for the development of RE, especially grade 3 RE.