bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of an mHealth application on clinical outcomes in childhood asthma: Real-world, pragmatic trial in a primary care setting
Authors: Songnuy Theerapan , Chutiyon Wongwat , Nurak Awirut , Rungraungsilp Suppat
Published: August 2022

Medical adherence among children with asthma is a challenging problem. Mobile health applications have been increasingly used to improve adherence and clinical outcomes. Here, we compared clinical outcomes by using a mobile health application (Asmon application) with those receiving usual care, assessed the patient’s satisfaction and the usability of this tool. Methods: We conveniently allocated children with persistent asthma aged 4‒15 years and a guardian to receive the Asmon application or a usual care for 6 months. Assessments were performed at baseline and at the 6-month follow-up. Outcomes were the asthma control test score (ACT), dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), acute exacerbation, and asthma-related quality of life. Participants’ satisfaction and reasons for unengaging in long-term use of the application were also analyzed. Results: The overall drop-out rate was 24.1% (intervention 13, 16.5%; control 6, 7.6%). The mean ACT scores had increased in both groups from baseline to the 6 months follow-up (intervention, p < 0.001; control p = 0.001), but did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.784). Among those with poorly controlled asthma at baseline, the intervention group showed possibly higher improvement than the control (37.5% vs 16.7%) even though the value was not significantly different (p = 0.128). Acute exacerbation, median dose of ICS usage, and asthma-related quality of life were not significantly different between groups (p = 0.554, 0.555, and 0.627, respectively). Approximately one-third of the intervention group never used the application, while 40.5% ever used only 1‒7 times during the study period. Perception regarding the application was hard-to-use, self-judged ICS discontinuation, and change in guardians were the main obstacles for regular engagement. Nevertheless, the satisfaction score on the rating scale was high (4.5/5.0).Conclusion: The interactive Asmon application potentially improved disease control only in children with poorly controlled asthma at baseline. Acute exacerbation rate, dose of ICS, and asthma-related quality of life were not impacted by the intervention. Healthcare providers should thoroughly consider participants’ and guardians’ background characteristics before implementing an mHealth application in the real-world daily practices.
Integrated exercise program in opioid agonist therapy clinics and effect on psychological distress: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (BAReAktiv)
Authors: Furulund Einar , Madebo Tesfaye , Druckrey-Fiskaaen Karl Trygve , Vold Jørn Henrik , Nordbotn Mette Hegland , Dahl Eivin , Dyrstad Sindre Mikael , Lid Torgeir Gilje , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: August 2022

Background
Substance use disorder is associated with unhealthy lifestyle choices, resulting in adverse social and health consequences. People with opioid use disorder receiving opioid agonist therapy, in particular, have high morbidity and reduced quality of life. Physical activity is recommended as an adjunctive treatment for people with substance use disorder, but there is minimal evidence from randomized controlled trials on effect of this among people with substance use disorder receiving opioid agonist therapy.
Methods
BAReAktiv is a multicentre randomised controlled trial. The study aims to recruit 324 patients receiving opioid agonist therapy (randomised 1:1 to integrated exercise intervention or control). A 16-week group-based integrated exercise intervention with workouts twice a week. The exercise program consists of endurance and resistance training. The target group will be patients 18 years and older receiving opioid agonist therapy in outpatient clinics in several centres in Western Norway. The primary outcome of the study is the effect on psychological distress measured by Hopkins’ symptom checklist with ten items. Secondary outcome measures include physical functioning assessed with a 4-minutes step-test, activity level, fatigue symptoms, quality of life and changes in inflammation markers. This study will provide improved knowledge on the effects of an integrated exercise program in opioid agonist therapy.
Discussion
Systematically integrating exercise programs for people receiving opioid agonist therapy could lead to a shift towards a stronger focus on health behaviours in outpatient care. Integrating exercise could benefit patient recovery and reduce disease burden. Further scale-up will be considered if the provided exercise program is safe and effective.
Trial Registration
: ClinicalTrials.gov.no NCT05242848. Date of registry February 16, 2022. Integrated Exercise Program in Opioid Agonist Therapy Clinics - Full Text View - ClinicalTrials.gov
Student Performance in Medical Biochemistry and Genetics: Comparing Campus-based versus Zoom-based Lecture Delivery
Authors: Faner Martha Audra , Ritchie Raquel P. , Ruger Katherine M. , Waarala Kirsten L. , Wilkins Carol A.
Published: August 2022

Background: Study objectives were to appraise the effectiveness of Zoom delivery versus live campus-based delivery of lectures in biochemistry and genetics courses and assess the integrity of remote versus campus administered exams. Methods: Participants were 601 students entering Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019 or 2020. The former completed courses and exams on campus, while the latter completed courses online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the biochemistry and genetics courses, the same lecturers delivered the same content and used identical exam questions for assessments in 2019 and 2020. The investigators compared percent correct for each question in 2019 and 2020. Results: This study found 84/126 (~67%) of the questions yielded little difference (3% or less in % Correct) between live delivery and Zoom delivery. For questions whose % Correct index differed by 4% or more, Zoom delivery yielded a better performance for 16 questions (~13%), while 19 questions (~15%) showed live lectures performed better. Seven of the questions (~6%) had an identical mode of delivery in 2019 and 2020 (e.g. self-study exercise). These served as “control questions” for which equivalent student performance was expected. The 126 questions analyzed spanned a wide range in the % Correct index, from ~60% Correct to >90% Correct. Conclusions: The results suggest that Zoom and on-campus delivery of the content in biochemistry and genetics yielded similar achievement of course objectives. The high concordance, between 2019 and 2020, of the % Correct for individual questions also speaks to exam integrity including online proctoring.
What is the Impact of Light Curing Modes of High-Powered LED on Temperature rise in Primary Teeth Dentin: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Jabbour Obada , Alfares Reem
Published: August 2022

Background: Temperature rise in the pulp chamber is a severe stress that can cause irreversible damage to the pulp. The objective of this study was to compare the temperature rise under primary tooth dentin induced by a light emitting diode (LED) with different light curing modes.Methods: Sixty dentin discs of 0.5- 1- 1.5- and 2-mm thicknesses were prepared from human primary molars. The resin composite placed in a Teflon cavity was cured using a high-powered LED (Foshan JERRY Medical Apparatus CO., LTD, Foshan, China) for 20 s. The different modes tested in this study were standard mode, ramp mode, and pulse mode (n=5). Temperature was recorded using a k-type thermocouple in direct contact with the dentin disc. Temperature change data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test.Results: The highest temperature rise was observed under a 0.5 mm thick dentin disc with standard mode (4.7 ± 0.42), whereas the lowest values were recorded with pulse mode under 2 mm thick dentin (2.5 ± 0.23). Pulse mode produced a significantly lower temperature rise than standard mode for all dentin thicknesses (P < 0.05). Ramp mode gave significantly lower values than standard mode in the 0.5 mm group (P < 0.05). For the standard and ramp modes, the 0.5 mm thick group exhibited a higher temperature rise than the 2 mm thick group (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Temperature rise related to dentin thickness and curing modes. The standard mode led to a significantly higher temperature rise under thinner dentin than the other modes. Pulse mode gave the lowest values. Thus, it is recommended for use in deep cavities. Clinical Significance: The temperature rise during polymerization of the resin composite with the high-powered LED appeared to be below 5.5 ℃. Hence, it appears to be safe for use in pediatric dentistry.
A Study of Land-Use Changes and Its Impacts on Flood Inundation in the Konkoure River Basin, Republic of Guinea.
Authors: Bah Alhassane , Zhang Hongbo , Luo Zhumei , Hu Jimin , Zhang Zulian , Xie Yang Lin , Yang Ting , Chen Guohong , Bah Alseny
Published: August 2022

This study evaluates the land-use change in the Konkoure River basin and its impact on flood inundation. The land-use changes were assessed using Landsat image (level 1) in August 2006 and August 2021. Land-use change assessment methods geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing were utilized. Thus, land use in Landsat imagery was identified using the NDVI, NDBI, and NDWI indices. We noticed that 32.16% of the total area became built-up areas, and 35.51% was converted to other land uses in Konkoure watershed. Konkoure's most significant change is that 29.50% of forest area transformed into built-up areas and other land uses. The changing impacts were assessed using satellite-based rain; specifically, GSMaP, which was used for input for the Rainfall-Runoff-Inundation (RRI) model. The RRI-based inundation of the Konkoure River Basin was compared to the MODIS extent. Due to the change in land use from forest land to built-up area, the infiltration rate reduced from 7.498mm/h to 5.33mm/h. As a result, runoff volumes surged by more than 100%, from 2146 m3/s to 4191.7 m3/s, and the flood inundation area grew from 129.43 km2 to 182.17 km2.
Mesenteric Teratoma in Adult Female: A Rare Case
Authors: Oropeza-Duarte César , García-Marín Gustavo Emmanuel , Monraz-Alvarez Daniel , Leonher-Ruezga Karla , Suárez-Velázquez Daniela , García-Morán Karla , García-Colunga María Fernanda , Torres Quitzia Libertad
Published: August 2022

Background: Mesenteric teratomas are considered rare intra-abdominal tumours with minimum clinical symptoms, which turn difficult their preoperative diagnosis. They represent a poorly studied pathology that has been established with 1 in 26,794 to 250,000 frequency of hospital admissions. It is not frequent to think about this kind of lesion in a preoperative period, and the symptoms it presents can be very ambiguous. Therefore, in this study we present a case of acute abdomen, in a 65-year-old Mexican woman, in which a mesenteric teratoma was obtained as a surgical finding. Case presentation: 65-year-old woman who presented a clinical picture of abdominal pain and distention, nausea and constipation, as well as absence of gas channeling in the last 24 hours. After 48 hours of conservative management, without favorable results and with a diagnosis of acute abdomen, surgery was entered to perform exploratory laparotomy and an intraoperative finding of mesenteric teratoma was made. Two ovoid specimens were extracted and sent to the pathology area, who confirms the diagnosis of mature cystic teratoma.Conclusions: Teratoma is commonly a germ cell tumour that originates in the gonads and is detected in women of reproductive age. This is extremely rare, with an estimated 21 cases reported to date. Despite the low frequency, it is suggested to it considered these teratomas in the differential diagnosis against other pathologies, especially if they do not show a very clear data.
Cost-Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibition and Targeted Treatment in Combination as Adjuvant Treatment of Patient with BRAF-Mutant Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Li Sini , Wan Xiaomin , Peng LiuBao , Li YaMin , Li JianHe
Published: August 2022

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted treatments have improved the health outcomes of patients with advanced melanoma. However, due to the high cost of novel therapies, it is crucial to evaluate their value by considering both effectiveness and cost.OBJECTIVE To compare the cost-effectiveness of these novel agents (atezolizumab-vemurafenib-cobimetinib, vemurafenib-plus-cobimetinib, dabrafenib-plus-trametinib, and encorafenib-plus-binimetinib) for first-line treatment of metastatic melanoma with the BRAFV600 mutation.Methods: A patient-level model was developed to project the health outcomes of 4 strategies for patients with advanced melanoma. We estimated transition probabilities from the IMspire150 (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02908672), COMBI-AD (NCT01682083), and COLUMBUS (NCT01909453) trials using a parametric survival model. All health outcomes, including direct cost, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), were estimated from the US payer perspective. Lifetime cost, QALYs, life-years (LYs), and ICERs were calculated. Univariable and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test model robustness, along with multiple scenario analyses.Results: Of the 4 competing strategies, atezolizumab-vemurafenib-cobimetinib produced the best health outcomes, and the vemurafenib-cobimetinib strategy was the least expensive option. Atezolizumab-vemurafenib-cobimetinib, dabrafenib-plus-trametinib, and vemurafenib-cobimetinib formed the cost-effective frontier, indicating that the ordered ICERs were $325113/QALYs for dabrafenib-plus-trametinib vs. vemurafenib-cobimetinib strategies and $2247500/QALYs for atezolizumab-vemurafenib-cobimetinib vs. dabrafenib-plus-trametinib strategies. Encorafenib-plus-binimetinib was dominated by the other 3 competing strategies. The drug price and first-line utility significantly influenced the model outcomes.Conclusion: For BRAF-mutant advanced melanoma, the vemurafenib-cobimetinib strategy could be considered the most cost-effective treatment at the willingness-to-pay threshold of $150,000.
Event-based finite-time quantized synchronization for discrete Markovian neural networks
Authors: Liu Caixia , Li Ying , Shi Yan , Zhang Yingqi
Published: August 2022

This paper is investigated with the robust finite-time synchronization of discrete-time Markovian jump neural networks with partially unknown transition probabilities. Firstly, a unified framework based on event-triggering approaches and quantization, a synchronization error model is first provided for discrete-time Markovian neural networks. Secondly, with the aid of Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, sufficient conditions for the finite-time boundedness are deduced which can ensure synchronization of the system model, and the quantized finite-time controller and event-triggered parameters are co-designed so that Markovian neural networks are finite-time bounded by variable decoupled techniques. Finally, a simulation example is established to illustrate the availability of the presented methods.MSC Classification: 15A39 , 24D06 , 93B51 , 93D30 , 93E15
Screening key marker molecules of osteosarcoma using bioinformatics analysis technology
Authors: Xu Ruiqing , Wan Ningjun , Shi Jiandang
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND
The most frequent primary bone tumor in children, adults, and elderly individuals over 60 years of age is osteosarcoma (OS), which is most commonly detected in the long bone epiphysis and has a poor prognosis and a high impairment rate. The precise etiology and underlying molecular pathways, however, remain unknown. Using bioinformatics approaches to evaluate the underlying biological mechanisms, this work attempted to discover differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in OS, implicated cell signaling pathways, and associated immune infiltration.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The GSE14359 dataset's expression profiles were downloaded from the GEO database, which contains 20 samples, including 18 OS samples and 2 normal osteoblast control samples. Raw data were collected, DEGs were obtained, and bioinformatics was used to further analyze the data. The gene expression matrix was subjected to WGCNA-weighted gene co-expression network analysis using R (version 4.1.1) software, as well as gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of candidate genes. The STRING database was used to create protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks of candidate genes. Core gene network maps were created using the Cytoscape software. The R (version 4.1.1) software was used to rank key genes. Subsequently, plots of individual hub gene survival curves, expression and clinical correlation and promoter methylation and clinical correlation were produced via an online website (http://ualcan.path.uab.edu/). Finally, the infiltration of immune cells in OS was assessed using CIBERSORT.
RESULTS
A total of 625 DEGs were identified, of which 314 were up-regulated and 311 were down-regulated. Principal component analysis showed significant differences between the two tissues. WGCNA-weighted gene co-expression showed the highest absolute value of the MEgrey60 module, and a total of 247 genes were listed in the intersection of DEGs and MEgrey60 module genes taken.KEGG pathway analysis showed that these candidate genes mainly involved adherent spots, Rap1, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK, while GO pathway analysis mainly involved cellular processes such as osteogenesis, epithelial cell proliferation, osteoblast differentiation, and molecular functions such as growth factors and fibronectin binding. The 23 most closely related genes among the candidate genes were identified from the PPI network.
CONCLUSION
Our study shows that screening for DEGs, pathway enrichment and immune infiltration using bioinformatics analysis not only helps to understand the molecular mechanisms of OS occurrence but also facilitates us to better execute target gene interventions. However, this study still has limitations and subsequent clinical validation of the samples is needed.
The effect of strength training on women’s happiness and well-being: a systematic review
Authors: Pontes Glendha Bastos
Published: August 2022

Background: Despite the widespread health benefits of strength training, women are often discouraged to seek this practice due to limiting gender-constructed roles influenced by cultural ideations that resist exaggerated hypertrophy among women. The objectives of this systematic review are two-fold. Primarily, to access and summarize information from existing studies underscoring the effects of regular strength training practice on women’s well-being, published in the last 10 years. Second, to relate the findings of this study with the PERMA model of well-being from positive psychology. Methods: Two electronic databases were used in this review, namely, Google Scholar and PubMed. The inclusion criteria comprised papers published in English and dated between January 1, 2012, and May 15, 2022, yielding a total of 439 publications. Furthermore, studies were excluded if: no interventions were applied, the results did not focus on female participants, the study lacked variables related to well-being, and the study was not based on strength training. Upon screening for relevance and applicability of the studies based on the abovementioned criteria, 11 publications were selected, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2.0) was applied to assess the risk of bias. Results: In total, 457 female participants from the 11 studies were included in this review. And seven studies presented positive effects of strength training on variables related to well-being, while three studies presented no significant changes. The remaining article did not present any significant changes in sense of coherence (SoC) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL); however, it found positive effects for hope, while no negative effects were observed. Discussion: Literature underscoring the benefits of strength training on women’s happiness is limited. Furthermore, studies that comprised only female participants are also limited, and largely characterized by variations in age, physical health, cultural context, and previous relationship with sports. Moreover, the effects of mental health and well-being are often not prioritized in research, resulting in study designs that have limited use among psychologists and other mental health professionals. Nevertheless, the current review showed that strength training exerts predominantly positive effects on women’s happiness. While some effects were neutral, no negative effects were found. Possible implications of the current paper refer to the stimuli of the prescription of a program of strength training for women aiming to improve overall well-being and to call attention to the need for more scientific research on the topic.
How good gender be identified from heart rate data? Evaluation using ALLSTAR Heart rate variability big data analysis
Authors: Kaneko Itaru , Hayano Junichiro , Yuda Emi
Published: August 2022

Objective: A small electrocardiograph and Holter electrocardiograph can record an electrocardiogram for 24 hours or more. We examined whether gender could be verified from such an electrocardiogram and, if possible, how accurate it would be.Results: Ten dimensional statistics were extracted from the heart rate data of more than 420,000 people, and gender identification was performed by various major identification methods. Lasso, linear regression, SVM, random forest, logistic regression, k-means, Elastic Net were compared. The best Accuracy was 0.638 for logistic regression. Although the discrimination results based on these statistics are statistically significant, it was confirmed that they are not accurate enough to determine the gender of an individual.
Safety and efficacy of Empagliflozin in Pakistani Muslim Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (SAFE-PAK); A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Aamir Azizul Hasan , Raja Umar Yousuf , Qureshi Faisal Masood , Asghar Ali , Mahar Saeed Ahmed , Ahmed Ibrar , Ghaffar Tahir , Zafar Jamal , Hasan Mohammad Imtiaz , Riaz Amna , Raza Syed Abbas , Khosa Irshad Ahmed , Khan Jahanzeb , Baqar Jaffer Bin
Published: August 2022

Background: Sodium-Glucose-Co-Transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor (Empagliflozin) is an effective drug in controlling blood glucose through predominantly glycosuria. Glycosuria increases the risk of genitourinary infections in diabetes. This study was aimed to establish the safety and efficacy of Empagliflozin (Group-A) versus standard care (Group-B) in Pakistani Muslim individuals with type 2 diabetes.Methods: A multicenter, randomized clinical trial was conducted in five cities across Pakistan from July 2019 to August 2020. Patients of both genders aged 18-75 years, body mass index (BMI) ≤ 45 kg/m2, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 7%-10% (53 mmol/mol to 86 mmol/mol) and treatment-naive to Empagliflozin were included. Treatment was given for 24 weeks, and allocation was done through randomization.Results: Out of 745 screened patients, 333 met the eligibility criteria, and a total of 244 (73.3%) patients were enrolled. Hypoglycemic events were significantly reported more in the standard care group, whereas positive urine culture, fungal infection, dehydration, and hypotension were insignificant between the two groups. The 6 months mean HbA1c reduction was significant in both groups; (Group-A: 0.91 ± 0.15; p<0.001 vs. Group-B2: 0.79 ± 0.14; p<0.001). Efficacy comparison at 6 months revealed a significant reduction in weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) in Group A only (Group-A: 1.4 ± 0.4 kg; p<0.002 vs. Group-B: 0.01 ± 0.5 kg; p<1.00), (Group-A: 5.1 ± 1.7 mmHg; p<0.012 vs. Group-B: 2.3 ±1.7 mmHg; p<0.526).Conclusions: Empagliflozin was a safe drug compared to standard care in Pakistani Muslim patients with diabetes. It was as effective as standard care in the clinical setting but achieved glycemic control by reducing weight and SBP in type 2 diabetes patients. Trial Registration: This study was registered in the NIH US National Library of Medicine clinical trials registry at Clinicaltrials.gov with the registration number: NCT04665284 on 11/12/2020.
Americium, plutonium, cesium and cobalt uptake by earthworm Eisenia andrei in contaminated soil
Authors: Slimáková Jana , Galanda Dušan , Lacenová Adriana , Mihalík Ján
Published: August 2022

The suitability of earthworms (Eisenia andrei) for the vermiremediation of soils contaminated with radionuclides was tested after 241Am, 239Pu, 137Cs and 60Co uptake from the soil. The accumulation of radioactivity in earthworms was measured after 3, 7, 15, 30, 45, 60, 80, 100 days of establishment in the case of gamma radionuclides and after 1, 15, 79, 93, 100, 113 for alpha radionuclides. Radiochemical analysis of alpha radionuclides was performed by the extraction chromatography using commercial sorbents TEVA resin and DGA Resin. Gamma radionuclides were measured by gamma spectrometry on HPGe detector. Although the enhanced uptake 241Am, 239Pu, 137Cs and 60Co by earthworms was observed, low values of transfer factors have been achieved. However, radioecological characteristic of Am and Pu are rare, therefore, our investigation will fill some gaps in the knowledge. The calculation of transfer factors was provided for various periods of exposition. One of the findings is that Pu has a longer biological half-life than Am. Moreover, there is also confirmation that Co has a longer biological half-life than Cs. The dependence of the mentioned radionuclides on the time of contact with the contaminated medium was also observed
Comparing PM2.5, respirable dust, and total dust fractions using real-time and gravimetric samples in a human exposure chamber study
Authors: Moazami Therese Nitter , Svendsen Kristin v Hirsch , Buhagen Morten , Jørgensen Rikke Bramming
Published: August 2022

Using a human exposure chamber, we investigate the reliability of the DustTrak DXR monitor by comparing its results to those obtained from taking traditional gravimetric samples of two stone minerals commonly used in asphalt and lactose powder. We also discuss the possibility of using real-time monitors such as DustTrak for occupational exposure monitoring purposes. The results are based on 19 days of experiment, each day with measurements collected over 4 h. Compared to the gravimetric samples, the DustTrak overestimated the PM2.5 and respirable dust concentrations, while it underestimated the total dust concentration by a factor of nearly two. However, the ratios, being done for more than one material, between the DustTrak and the gravimetric sample readings varied daily and across the different exposure materials. Real-time sensors have the potential to excel at identifying exposure sources, evaluating the measured control efficiency, visualizing variations in exposure to motivate workers, and contributing to the identification of measures to be implemented to reduce exposure. For total dust, a correction factor of at least two should be used to bring its readings up to those for the corresponding gravimetric samples. Also, if the DustTrak is used in the initial profiling of occupational exposure, the exposure could be considered acceptable if the readings are well below the occupational exposure limit (OELs) after correction. If the DustTrak readings, after correction, is close to, or above, the accepted exposure concentrations, more thorough approaches would be required to validate the exposure.
Exploring the role of coal consumption, solar and wind power generation on ecological footprint: Evidence from India using Fourier ADL cointegration test
Authors: Karlilar Selin , Emir Firat
Published: August 2022

In this study, we aimed to assess whether the intensive investments done for renewable energy sources work for reducing environmental deterioration level in India to reach its sustainable development goals and raise environmental quality. To this end, using data from 1995 to 2018, a novel methodology, the Fourier ADL cointegration test, and Bounds test were employed to empirically analyze the long-term steady-state relationship between ecological footprint and renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. Our empirical findings demonstrate the long-run steady-state associations between coal consumption, solar power generation, wind power generation, and ecological footprint in India. Moreover, the magnitude of the long-term effects of these resources were estimated by employing FMOLS method and the results indicated that solar and wind power generation have a statistically significant positive effect on environmental sustainability. In other words, increasing the share of wind and solar power generation in the energy mix led to mitigating the environmental deterioration in India. The findings also revealed an adverse effect of coal consumption on environmental sustainability in India. These results suggest that the share of solar and wind power generation in the energy mix should be increased in order to mitigate the energy-import dependency and environmental pollution in India.Jel codes: P18; P48; Q28; Q42
What incentives encourage local communities to collect and upload mosquito sound data by using smartphones? A case study in Tanzania
Authors: Dam Rinita , Mponzi Winifrida , Msaky Dickson , Mwandyala Tumpe , Kaindoa Emmanuel W. , Sinka Marianne E. , Kiskin Ivan , Herreros-Moya Eva , Messina Janey , Shah Syed Ghulam Sarwar , Roberts Stephen , Willis Kathy J.
Published: August 2022

Background: To detect and identify mosquitoes using their characteristic whining sound, we have developed a smartphone application that records the acoustic signature of these sounds, along with the time and location. This data is then sent remotely to a server where algorithms identify the species according to their distinctive acoustic signature. Whilst this system works well, a key question that remains is what mechanisms will lead to effective uptake and use of this mosquito survey tool? We addressed this question by working with local communities in rural Tanzania and providing three alternative incentives: money only, Short Message Service (SMS) reminders and money, and SMS reminders only. We also had a control group with no incentive. Methods: A multi-site, quantitative empirical study was conducted in four villages in Tanzania from April 2021 to August 2021. Consenting participants were recruited and placed into one of the three intervention arms: monetary incentives only; SMS reminders with monetary incentives; and SMS reminders only. There was also a control group (no intervention). To test effectiveness of the mechanisms, the number of audio uploads to the server of the four trial groups on their specific dates were compared. Qualitative focus group discussions and feedback surveys were also conducted to explore participants’ perspectives on their participation in the study and to capture their experiences of using the HumBug sensor.Results: Qualitative data analysis revealed that for many participants (37 out of 81), the main motivation expressed was to learn more about the types of mosquitoes present in their houses. Results from the empirical study supported this finding and revealed that the provision of monetary incentives and/or sending SMS reminders did not appear to encourage greater number of audio uploads when compared to the control. Conclusion: Knowledge on the presence of harmful mosquitoes was the strongest motive for local communities to collect and upload mosquito sound data via the HumBug sensor in rural Tanzania. This finding suggests that most efforts should be made to improve flow of real-time information back to the communities on types and risks associated with mosquitoes present in their houses.
Crude Oil Spills Impact Bird Richness and Abundance Negatively in a Tropical Terrestrial Environment
Authors: Iniunam Iniunam Aniefiok , Kazeh Nanchin Winifred , Ivande Samuel Tertese , Tende Talatu , Chaskda Adams Adamanyiwa
Published: August 2022

The study aimed at understanding the temporal effects of crude oil spill on bird richness and abundance because of its relevance to species and biodiversity management and conservation. Using the single time design, we visited 57 points across 8 sites of varying crude oil disturbance history and 44 random adjacent points as control points. Our result showed that the impact of crude oil spills is highest at the initial stage. However, bird species richness and abundance increased over time and showed no significant difference with control points after 24 months. This information suggest that crude oil spills are detrimental to birds and humans. This research, to the best of our knowledge, is the first that focuses on the effects of crude oil spills on terrestrial bird species in a tropical environment. Thus, we suggest longer monitoring assessments with special attention to the various feeding guilds to ensure proper ecological monitoring that informs better management and restoration plans. We also recommend clean ups of contaminated areas after spill events to ensure quick recovery of bird populations.
Particulate Oxidative Potential Associated with Fireworks Activity during Diwali at a site in the Indo-Gangetic Plain
Authors: Goyal Isha , Verma Puneet Kumar , Kumari Kandikonda Maharaj , Lakhani Anita
Published: August 2022

The dithiothreitol (DTT) assay was used to investigate the oxidative potential (OP) of atmospheric fine particles (PM2.5) to form reactive oxygen species (ROS) during Diwali festival firework activity at a site in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, India. During the study period, the 12-hour mean PM2.5 was reported to be 263 ±151 µg m-3, which was 4.4 times higher than the NAAQS standards. Increased levels of gaseous pollutants (NOx, SO2, CO and O3), as well as metal concentrations such as Ba, Pb, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Al, and Mn, were also observed during fireworks displays. The increased PM2.5-NOx slope for fireworks, which included traffic emissions, revealed that fireworks played a significant role. The highest value of OP of PM was detected in the next morning of Diwali, with a volume-based DTT value of 1.4 nmol min-1 m-3 and a mass-based DTT value of 11.8 pmol min-1 μg-1, implying higher PM-related DTT activity due to fireworks. A positive association was found between redox-active metals like Cr, Cu, Ni, and V and DTT activity which could be due to the ability of these metals to catalyse ROS generation in ambient air. Ba and Se concentrations in the particulate matter, which are key components of firecrackers, were likewise highly linked to DTT activity. During the daytime, ozone levels were strongly correlated (r2 = 0.9) with OPv activity; this may be due to photochemical processes which may lead to the formation of tropospheric O3. Elements C, O, Al, Si, S, K, and Ba were found to be the most prevalent in elemental mappings, which suggests that fireworks may have contributed to their abundance. A comparison of the daily OPv activity and hazard index (HI) suggests that the HI may be a poor metric for measuring the health impacts of PM exposure on human health.
Deliverable Microparticles Coated With Nano-forest Like Structure To Improve Dispersion and Biofouling Resistance
Authors: Yang ChengDuan , Liang Baoming , Yang Cheng , Liu Ziqi , Li Xiangling , Xie Xi , Liu Fanmao , Wang Ji , Chen Hui-jiuan
Published: August 2022

Background
A variety of implantable microparticles have been developed to detect, diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases, but undesirable bio-fouling caused by biological substances including proteins, bacteria and cells adhesion, can easily lead to the risk of complications such as inflammation. Although most modification techniques have achieved biofouling resistance, the fragility of coatings in fluids and the particles agglomeration often caused by modification limit their applications. Here, we report deliverable microparticles coated with nano-forest like structure (NFMPs) that are exceptionally dispersed and resistant to biofouling.
Methods
The nano-forest-like microspheres were formed by the combined modification of tree-trunk like nanospikes and dendritic ‘liquid-like’ molecular brush coatings on the conventional microspheres surface. Its structure and surface characteristics were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), static contact angles (CAs), slide angles (SAs). Compared the dispersibility of nanospike-modified hydrophobic microspheres with conventional hydrophobic microspheres in water to determine nanospike-induced abnormal dispersion. Furthermore, the nano-forest-like microparticles were incubated with proteins, bacteria and cells to verify their anti-biofouling properties, and its anti-adhesion mechanisms were explored through activity tests and anti-biofouling performance tests of nanoforest structure-modified planar structures.
Results
The ‘liquid-like’ coating is reliably biocompatible and induces microparticles to exhibit long-term and robust resistance against proteins, bacterial and cells adhesion. While the microparticles were aggregated in water due to their increased hydrophobicity caused by the coating, the tree-trunk-like nanospikes induced specific dispersion of the microparticles.
Conclusion
Based on these results, our research introduces a unique modification technology for deliverable microparticles with exceptional dispersibility and anti-biofouling properties, which will facilitate the development of deliverable devices or materials to reduce inflammation or infection.
Radiomics-based machine learning model for predicting Overall and Progression-Free Survival in rare cancer: a case study for Primary CNS Lymphoma patients
Authors: Destito Michela , Marzullo Aldo , Leone Riccardo , Zaffino Paolo , Steffanoni Sara , Erbella Federico , Calimeri Francesco , Anzalone Nicoletta , De Momi Elena , Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Calimeri Teresa , Spadea Maria Francesca
Published: August 2022

In this study, we investigated whether radiomics features can improve outcome prediction in patients with Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PCNSL). 80 patients diagnosed with PCNSL were enrolled. Of these, 56 patients with complete Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) series (including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, 3D-T1 with gadolinium, and FLAIR) were selected for the stratification analysis. Following radiomic feature extraction and selection, different Machine Learning (ML) models were tested for Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-free Survival (PFS) prediction, and accuracy was computed in terms of F1-score and area under ROC curve (AUC). To assess the stability of the selected features, images from 23 patients scanned at three different time points were used to compute the Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and evaluate the reproducibility of each feature for both original and normalized images. Features extracted from Z-score normalized images resulted significantly more stable (ICC=0.80) than those extracted from non-normalized images (ICC=0.58), p-value<10 −12. For the best classifier, F1-score resulted 0.83/0.77-0.86 (median/interquartile range), and 0.80/0.67-0.88, for OS and PFS respectively. On average, AUC showed that radiomics based prediction (AUC=0.86 for OS, AUC=0.84 for PFS) overcomes prediction based on current clinical prognostic factors (AUC=0.70 for OS, AUC=0.56 for PFS). These results indicate that radiomics features extracted from normalized MR images can improve prognosis stratification of PCNSL patients and pave the way for further study on its potential role to drive treatment choise.
Concurrent Operation of Round Beam and Flat Beam in a Low- Emittance Storage Ring
Authors: Lee J. , Ahn S. , Ko J. , Oh B. , Jang G. , Yoon Y. D. , Shin S. , Kim J-H. , Chung M.
Published: August 2022

In 4th-generation storage rings, whether to operate the beam as round or flat is a critical question. A round beam has equal horizontal and vertical emittances, and is an efficient solution to reduce strong intra-beam scattering effects and lengthen the Touschek lifetimes, but a flat beam produces a brighter photon beam than a round beam. To provide both beams concurrently rather than bifurcating the beam time, this paper presents cutting-edge hardware that supports concurrent operation of round beam and flat beam.
What drives attitude towards remote palliative care among tumor patients amid the COVID-19 Pandemic ? A survey
Authors: Li Ming , Liu Weichen , Lian Siqin , Hou Xijie , Chen Guolian , Ling Ying
Published: August 2022

Background: To understand the status of cancer patients’ awareness and demand for remote palliative care service and to provide a reference for promoting the formulation of remote palliative care policy.Methods: A small across-section design involved a sample of 148 cancer adults in the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, who were conducted by self-designed questionnaire via the Questionnaire Star. The questionnaire contained basic information (14 items) and the attitude towards the remote palliative care (6 items).Results: The rate of patients who supported to take remote palliative care was 41.2%. It related with age, education level, occupation, family income, insurance type, self-care ability, smartphone and communication app using, and the using time(p＜0.05). Most of them hoped to get remote palliative care 24 hours. Almost half of the patients would like to be charged by items and they hoped the price of remote palliative care be cheap. Most of the patients didn’t really care about the working years and title of the care provider, but half of them more believed Grade 3, Class A hospital. The top three demand of remote palliative care were pain reducing, nutrition counseling, and nursing instruction.Conclusion: Remote palliative care has a good application prospect for cancer patients, but there are still some challenges, which need further exploration and development, including appropriate infrastructure, reasonable price and sufficient personnel to provide remote palliative care services.
A New Measure of Posterior Morphology in Sagittal Craniosynostosis: The Occipital Bullet Index
Authors: Bins Griffin P , Cull Deborah , Layton Ryan G , Kogan Samuel , Zhou Larry , Dunson Blake T , David Lisa R , Runyan Christopher M
Published: August 2022

Background: Sagittal craniosynostosis (SC) is associated with scaphocephaly, an elongated narrow head shape. Assessment of regional severity in the scaphocephalic head is limited by the use of serial CT imaging or complex computer programing. Three-dimensional measurements of cranial surface morphology provide a radiation-free alternative for assessing cranial shape. This study describes the creation of an Occipital Bulleting Index (OBI), a novel tool using surface morphology to assess the regional severity in patients with SC. Methods: Surface imaging from CT scans or 3D photographs of 360 individuals with sagittal craniosynostosis and 221 normocephalic individuals were compared to identify differences in morphology. Cartesian grids were created on each individual’s surface mesh using equidistant axial and sagittal planes. Area under the curve (AUC) analyses were performed to identify trends in regional morphology and create measures capturing population differences.Results: The largest differences were located in the medial regions posteriorly. Using these population trends, a measure was created maximizing AUC. The Occipital Bullet index has an AUC of 0.72 with a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 61%. When the Frontal Bossing Index is applied in tandem, the two have a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 93.1%. Correlation between the two scores in individuals with SC was found to be negligible with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.018. Severity was found to be independent of age under 24 months, sex, and imaging modality.Conclusions: This index creates a tool for differentiating control head shapes from those with sagittal craniosynostosis, and has the potential to allow for objective evaluation of the regional severity, outcomes of different surgical techniques, and tracking shape changes in individuals over time, without the need for radiation.
BET protein inhibition sensitizes glioblastoma cells to temozolomide treatment by attenuating MGMT expression
Authors: Tancredi Alessandro , Gusyatiner Olga , Bady Pierre , Buri Michelle , Lomazzi Rémy , Chiesi Davide , Messerer Mahmoud , Hegi Monika
Published: August 2022

Bromodomain and extra-terminal tail (BET) proteins have been identified as potential epigenetic targets in cancer, including glioblastoma. These epigenetic modifiers link the histone code to gene transcription that can be disrupted with small molecule BET inhibitors (BETi). With the aim of developing rational combination treatments for glioblastoma, we analyzed BETi-induced differential gene expression in glioblastoma derived-spheres, and identified 6 distinct response patterns. To uncover emerging actionable vulnerabilities that can be targeted with a second drug, we extracted the 169 significantly disturbed DNA Damage Response genes and inspected their response pattern. The most prominent candidate with consistent downregulation, was the O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene, a known resistance factor for alkylating agent therapy in glioblastoma. BETi not only reduced MGMT expression in GBM cells, but also inhibited its induction, typically observed upon temozolomide treatment. To determine the potential clinical relevance, we evaluated the specificity of the effect on MGMT expression and MGMT mediated treatment resistance to temozolomide. BETi-mediated attenuation of MGMT expression was associated with reduction of BRD4- and Pol II-binding at the MGMT promoter. On the functional level, we demonstrated that ectopic expression of MGMT under an unrelated promoter was not affected by BETi, while under the same conditions, pharmacologic inhibition of MGMT restored the sensitivity to temozolomide, reflected in an increased level of g-H2AX, a proxy for DNA double-strand breaks. Importantly, expression of MSH6 and MSH2, which are required for sensitivity to unrepaired O6-methylGuanin-lesions, was only briefly affected by BETi. Taken together, the addition of BET-inhibitors to the current standard of care, comprising temozolomide treatment, may sensitize the 50% of patients whose glioblastoma exert an unmethylated MGMT promoter.