bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of visceral adiposity index with incident nephropathy and retinopathy: a cohort study in the diabetic population
Authors: Wu Zhiyuan , Yu Siqi , Kang Xiaoping , Liu Yue , Xu Zongkai , Li Zhiwei , Wang Jinqi , Miao Xinlei , Liu Xiangtong , Li Xia , Zhang Jingbo , Wang Wei , Tao Lixin , Guo Xiuhua
Published: February 2022

Background

The association between visceral adiposity index (VAI) and diabetic complications has been reported in cross-sectional studies, while the effect of VAI on complication development remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the longitudinal association of VAI and Chinese VAI (CVAI) with the incidence of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy using a Chinese cohort.

Methods

A total of 8 948 participants with type 2 diabetes from Beijing Health Management Cohort were enrolled during 2013–2014, and followed until December 31, 2019. Nephropathy was confirmed by urine albumin/creatinine ratio and estimated glomerular filtration rate; retinopathy was diagnosed using fundus photograph.

Results

The mean (SD) age was 53.35 (14.66) years, and 6 154 (68.8%) were men. During a median follow-up of 4.82 years, 467 participants developed nephropathy and 90 participants developed retinopathy. One-SD increase in VAI and CVAI levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of nephropathy, and the adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were 1.127 (95% CI 1.050–1.210) and 1.165 (95% CI 1.003–1.353), respectively. On contrary, VAI and CVAI level were not associated with retinopathy after adjusting confounding factors.

Conclusion

VAI and CVAI are independently associated with the development of nephropathy, but not retinopathy in Chinese adults with diabetes.
Prognostic biomarkers of malignant patients with pleural effusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Peng , Yang Yuan , Du Juan , Zhai Kan , Shi Huan-Zhong
Published: February 2022

Background

Pleural effusion is a common clinical problem in patients with cancer. We aimed to summarize all the known prognostic indicators of malignant pleural effusion.

Methods

We did a systematic review and meta-analysis with a systematic literature search. All prospective or retrospective cohort studies that estimated the prognostic factors of malignant pleural effusion were enrolled. Mantel–Haenszel method was used to calculate the pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Eventually, we identified 82 studies with a total of 10,748 patients that met our inclusion criteria. The LENT score showed a good prognostic value (HR 1.97, 95% CI 1.67–2.31) so did the LENT score item. In addition, clinical parameters like stage (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.25–2.25), distant metastasis (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.38–1.89), EGFR mutation (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.56–0.74), serum biological parameters like hemoglobin (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.17–2.06), albumin (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.25–2.34), C-reaction protein (HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.49–2.29), VEGF (HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.18–2.43) and pleural effusion biological parameters like PH (HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.46–2.60), glucose (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.18–2.61), VEGF (HR 1.99, 95% CI 1.67–2.37), and survivin (HR 2.90, 95% CI 1.17–7.20) are also prognostic factors for malignant pleural effusion.

Conclusions

For malignant pleural effusion, LENT score and its items are valuable prognostic biomarkers, so do the clinical parameters like stage, distant metastasis, EGFR mutation, the serum biological parameters like hemoglobin, albumin, C-reaction protein, VEGF and the pleural effusion biological parameters like PH, glucose, VEGF and survivin.
Integration of liquid biopsy and pharmacogenomics for precision therapy of EGFR mutant and resistant lung cancers
Authors: Kolesar Jill , Peh Spencer , Thomas Levin , Baburaj Gayathri , Mukherjee Nayonika , Kantamneni Raveena , Lewis Shirley , Pai Ananth , Udupa Karthik S. , Kumar AN Naveena , Rangnekar Vivek M. , Rao Mahadev
Published: February 2022

The advent of molecular profiling has revolutionized the treatment of lung cancer by comprehensively delineating the genomic landscape of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. Drug resistance caused by EGFR mutations and genetic polymorphisms of drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters impedes effective treatment of EGFR mutant and resistant lung cancer. This review appraises current literature, opportunities, and challenges associated with liquid biopsy and pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing as precision therapy tools in the management of EGFR mutant and resistant lung cancers. Liquid biopsy could play a potential role in selection of precise tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapies during different phases of lung cancer treatment. This selection will be based on the driver EGFR mutational status, as well as monitoring the development of potential EGFR mutations arising during or after TKIs treatment, since some of these new mutations may be druggable targets for alternative TKIs. Several studies have identified the utility of liquid biopsy in the identification of EGFR driver and acquired resistance with good sensitivities for various blood-based biomarkers. With a plethora of sequencing technologies and platforms available currently, further evaluations using randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in multicentric, multiethnic and larger patient cohorts could enable optimization of liquid-based assays for the detection of EGFR mutations, and support testing of CYP450 enzymes and drug transporter polymorphisms to guide precise dosing of EGFR TKIs.
Effect of aerobic exercise intensity on health-related quality of life in severe obesity: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Berge Jarle , Hjelmesæth Jøran , Kolotkin Ronette L. , Støren Øyvind , Bratland-Sanda Solfrid , Hertel Jens Kristoffer , Gjevestad Espen , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Helgerud Jan , Bernklev Tomm
Published: February 2022

Background

Aerobic exercise is an important part of obesity treatment and may improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The objective of this study was to compare the effect of two different exercise programs on health-related quality of life in patients with severe obesity.

Methods

This was a single-center, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study comparing the effects of a 24-week moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) program and a combined high-intensity interval training program with MICT (HIIT/MICT). The primary objective (specified secondary outcome) was to assess HRQOL by using the general health dimension of the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). The secondary objectives were to assess other dimensional SF-36 scores, the impact of weight on the physical and psychosocial aspects of quality of life (IWQOL-Lite), and the burden of obesity-specific weight symptoms (WRSM).

Results

73 patients were enrolled and reported patient reported outcome measures, with 71 patients (55% females) allocated to either MICT (n = 34) or HIIT/MICT (n = 37). In the intention-to-treat analysis, general health scores increased between baseline and 24-week follow-up in both the HIIT/MICT group and the MICT group, with a mean change of 13 (95% CI 6–21) points and 11 (95% CI 5–17) points, respectively, with no difference between the groups. The effect sizes of these changes were moderate. The vitality and social functioning scores of SF-36, and the physical function and self-esteem scores of IWQOL-Lite increased moderately in both groups, with no difference between groups. The tiredness, back pain, and physical stamina scores based on WRSM showed moderate to strong changes in both the groups.

Conclusions

Patients who had completed a combined HIIT/MICT program did not experience larger improvements in general health compared with those completing a clean 24-week MICT program. Exercise may confer general health benefits independent of intensity.

Trials registration

Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics south east, Norway, October 23, 2013 (identifier: 2013/1849) and ClinicalTrials.gov December 8, 2014 (identifier: NCT02311738).
Kidney function and daily emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV: results from the real-life multicentric demonstrative project PrEP Brazil
Authors: Petruccelli Karla Cristina Silva , Baía-da-Silva Djane Clarys , Val Fernando , Valões Monica Santos , Cubas-Vega Nadia , Silva-Neto Alexandre Vilhena , Sampaio Vanderson , Alencar Aline , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Moreira Rodrigo Carvalho , Cardoso Sandra Wagner , Moreira Ronaldo I. , Leite Iuri Costa , Madruga José Valdez , Kallas Esper G. , Alencastro Paulo R. , Hoagland Brenda , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Santos Valdiléa Gonçalves Veloso , Lacerda Marcus Vinícius Guimarães
Published: February 2022

Background

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated efficacy in the reduction of sexually transmitted HIV infections. The prolonged use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC) co-formulation (TDF/FTC), however, may result in augmented risk of renal toxicity. We aimed to evaluate changes in the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) in a real-world population setting of participants enrolled in PrEP Brazil, a 48-week prospective, open-label, demonstration study to assess the feasibility of daily oral TDF/FTC used by men who have sex with men and transgender women at high-risk of HIV infection, all over 18 years old.

Methods

Kidney function was assessed by serial measurement of serum creatinine and eGFR with the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (MDRD) formula on weeks 4, 12, 24, 36 and 48. Adherence to PrEP was assessed by dosing TDF concentration in dried blood spots at weeks 4 and 48, measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry or mass spectrometry.

Results

Of 392 participants completing the 48-week follow-up protocol with TDF blood detectable levels and eGFR measures, 43.1% were young adults, of Caucasian ethnic background (57.9%), with BMI below 30 kg/m2, without arterial hypertension. At screening, median eGFR was 93.0 mL/min/1.73 m2. At week 4 follow-up, 90 (23% of the study population) participants presented reductions in eGFR greater than 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 as compared to baseline eGFR, some as large as 59 mL/min/1.73 m2, but with no clinical outcomes (adverse events and renal adverse events) severe enough to demand TDF/FTC discontinuation. A negative relationship was observed between TDF blood levels and eGFR at weeks 4 (r = − 0.005; p < 0.01) and 48 (r = − 0.006; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the renal function profile in individuals on TDF/FTC may be assessed on week 4 and then only annually, allowing a more flexible medical follow-up in primary care centers.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00930 promotes PFKFB3-mediated tumor glycolysis and cell proliferation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: He Baoyu , Pan Hongli , Zheng Fengque , Chen Saiqiong , Bie Qingli , Cao Jinghe , Zhao Rou , Liang Jing , Wei Li , Zeng Jianchao , Li Hui , Cui Xing , Ding Yixuan , Chao Wei , Xiang Tiantian , Cheng Yuhe , Qiu Gui , Huang Shishun , Tang Libo , Chang Jiansheng , Luo Delan , Yang Jie , Zhang Bin
Published: February 2022

Background

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer. However, the roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer metabolism, especially glucose metabolism remain largely unknown.

Results

In this study, we identified and functionally characterized a novel metabolism-related lncRNA, LINC00930, which was upregulated and associated with tumorigenesis, lymphatic invasion, metastasis, and poor prognosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Functionally, LINC00930 was required for increased glycolysis activity and cell proliferation in multiple NPC models in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, LINC00930 served as a scaffold to recruit the RBBP5 and GCN5 complex to the PFKFB3 promoter and increased H3K4 trimethylation and H3K9 acetylation levels in the PFKFB3 promoter region, which epigenetically transactivating PFKFB3, and thus promoting glycolytic flux and cell cycle progression. Clinically, targeting LINC00930 and PFKFB3 in combination with radiotherapy induced tumor regression.

Conclusions

Collectively, LINC00930 is mechanistically, functionally and clinically oncogenic in NPC. Targeting LINC00930 and its pathway may be meaningful for treating patients with NPC.
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on TH1/TH2 polarization in individuals with high exposure to particulate matter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
Authors: Wang Xiaomin , Li Shuiqin , Wu Yongcan , Huang Demei , Pei Caixia , Wang Yilan , Shi Shihua , Wang Fei , Wang Zhenxing
Published: February 2022

Background

Long-term exposure to high concentrations of PM2.5 may cause immune system dysfunction and damage to the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. PM2.5 may cause CD4 + T helper cells to polarize toward TH1 or TH2 cell types, which may be associated with the onset and progression of many human diseases. Recent studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can regulate human immune function and reduce physiological damage caused by air pollution; however, only limited research has examined the therapeutic effects of omega-3 fatty acids on subjects with high exposure to PM2.5 in mass transit systems such as subways.

Methods

This study was designed as a prospective, randomized, double-blinded (to participants and researchers), placebo-controlled clinical trial. The research plan is to randomly select 120 eligible adults based on the difference in PM2.5 exposure in the Chengdu subway station. They should be aged 20–65 years old and work in the subway station more than or equal to 3 times a week, each time greater than or equal to 8 h, and had worked continuously in the subway station for more than 2 years. All participants will receive omega-3 fatty acids or placebo for 8 weeks. The primary outcomes will be changes in the TH1/TH2 cell polarization index and changes in serum cytokine concentrations. Secondary outcomes will be changes in early indicators of atherosclerosis, pulmonary function, COOP/WONCA charts, and scores on the Short-Form 36 Health Survey for quality of life. Results will be analyzed to evaluate differences in clinical efficacy between the two groups. A 6-month follow-up period will be used to assess the long-term value of omega-3 fatty acids for respiratory and cardiovascular disease endpoints.

Discussion

We will explore the characteristics of the TH1/TH2 cell polarization index in a population with high exposure to PM2.5. Omega-3 fatty acids and placebo will be compared in many ways to test the effect on people exposed to PM2.5 subway stations. This study is expected to provide reliable evidence to support the promotion of omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice to protect individuals who are highly exposed to PM2.5.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000038065. Registered on September 9, 2020
The “Blood pressure and oxygenation targets in post resuscitation care, a randomized clinical trial”: design and statistical analysis plan
Authors: Kjaergaard Jesper , Schmidt Henrik , Møller Jacob E. , Hassager Christian
Published: February 2022

Background

Comatose patients admitted after resuscitation from cardiac arrest have a significant risk of poor outcome due to hypoxic brain injury. While numerous studies have investigated and challenged the target temperature as the efficacious part of the guideline endorsed Targeted Temperature Management (TTM) protocols, our knowledge and how the remaining parts of the TTM are optimized remain sparse. The present randomized trial investigated two aspects of the TTM protocol: target blood pressure during the ICU stay and oxygenation during mechanical ventilation. Furthermore, the efficacy of device-based post-TTM fever management is addressed.

Methods

Investigator-initiated, dual-center, randomized clinical trial in comatose OHCA patients admitted to an intensive cardiac care unit. Patients are eligible for inclusion if unconscious, older than 18 years of age, and have return of spontaneous circulation for more than 20 min.

Intervention: allocation 1:1:1:1 into a group defined by (a) blood pressure targets in double-blind intervention targeting a mean arterial blood pressure of 63 or 77 mmHg and (b) restrictive (9–10 kPa) or liberal (13–14 kPa) of arterial oxygen concentration during mechanical ventilation. As a subordinate intervention, device-based active fever management is discontinued after 36 h or 72. Patients will otherwise receive protocolized standard of care according to international guidelines, including targeted temperature management at 36 °C for 24 h, sedation with fentanyl and propofol, and multimodal neuro-prognostication. Primary endpoint: Discharge from hospital in poor neurological status (Cerebral Performance category 3 or 4) or death, whichever comes first. Secondary outcomes: Time to initiation of renal replacement therapy or death, neuron-specific enolase (NSE) level at 48 h, MOCA score at day 90, Modified Ranking Scale (mRS) and CPC at 3 months, NT-pro-BNP at 90 days, eGFR and LVEF at 90 days, daily cumulated vasopressor requirement during ICU stay, and need for a combination of vasopressors and inotropic agents or mechanical circulatory support.

Discussion

We hypothesize that low or high target blood pressure and restrictive and liberal oxygen administration will have an impact on mortality by reducing the risk and degree of hypoxic brain injury. This will be assessment neurological outcome and biochemical and neuropsychological testing after 90 days.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03141099. Registered on May 2017 (retrospectively registered)
The effect of probiotic cheese consumption on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers, disease severity, and symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Asoudeh Farzaneh , Djafarian Kurosh , Akhalghi Maassoumeh , Mahmoudi Mahdi , Jamshidi Ahmad Reza , Farhadi Elham , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: February 2022

Background

In recent decades, several studies have shown changes in the intestinal microflora among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therapeutic measures using probiotics have shown favorable effects on the recovery of these patients. However, most studies have used probiotic supplements. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of probiotic cheese consumption on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, disease severity, and symptoms in these patients.

Methods

This study is a randomized, double-blind clinical trial, in which forty patients with mild to moderate severity of RA will be randomly allocated to receive either 30 g/day probiotic cheese (n = 20) or only low-salt and low-fat cheese without any added probiotic (n = 20) for 12 weeks. Assessment of anthropometric measures and biochemical indicators, including serum concentrations of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10), will be done at the study baseline and end of the trial. In addition, disease severity and disability will be assessed by DAS-28 and the HAQ-DI questionnaire, respectively.

Discussion

Diet is the leading environmental factor affecting the gut microbiota. A prebiotic-rich diet and probiotics might be beneficial in this regard. To the best of our knowledge, the effect of probiotic supplements on inflammation in these patients has widely been assessed; however, there is only one study that examined the effect of probiotic-containing food in these patients. Further studies are needed to investigate the effect of probiotic-containing foods on inflammatory markers and symptoms in patients with RA.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20201120049449N1. Registered on 14 February 2021
Tackling the increasing contamination of the water supply by iodinated contrast media
Authors: Dekker Helena M. , Stroomberg Gerard J. , Prokop Mathias
Published: February 2022

Contrast media are essential for diagnostic and interventional procedures. Iodinated contrast media are the most commonly used agents, with CT requiring the largest overall quantities. Data show that these iodinated contrast media are found in sewage water, surface water and drinking water in many regions in the world. Because standard drinking water purification techniques only provide poor to moderate removal of iodinated contrast media, these substances pose a problem for drinking water preparation that has not yet been solved. There is a growing body of evidence supporting the negative environmental effects of iodinated contrast media via their breakdown products. The environmental impact of iodinated contrast media can be mitigated by measures focusing on the application of contrast media or the excretion of contrast media. Measures with respect to contrast application include reducing the utilization of contrast media, reducing the waste of contrast media and collecting residues of contrast media at the point of application. The amount of contrast media excreted into the sewage water can be decreased by introducing urine bags and/or special urine collection and waste-water processing techniques in the hospital. To tackle the problem of contrast media in the water system in its entirety, it is necessary for all parties involved to cooperate, from the producer of contrast medium to the consumer of drinking water. This paper aims to make health professionals aware of the opportunity to take the lead now in more conscious decisions regarding use of contrast media and gives an overview of the different perspectives for action.
Multiplicity of solutions for an anisotropic variable exponent problem
Authors: Tavares Leandro S.
Published: February 2022

In this manuscript an existence result for an anisotropic variable problem which is related to several applications is proved. By considering suitable hypotheses, the multiplicity of solutions is obtained. Examples of applicability of the results are also presented. The arguments are based on appropriated $L^{\infty }$

L
∞

estimates, sub-supersolutions, and the mountain pass theorem.
Forming a medicines pricing policy for low and middle-income countries (LMICs): the case for Pakistan
Authors: Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din
Published: February 2022

Equitable access to medicines has played a vital role to improve patient health outcomes and reducing mortality globally. However, it is important to note that medicines pricing is a key determinant in promoting access to medicines. The studies and empirical data have shown that there are wide variations in prices across countries for the same brand of medicines. World Health Organisation (WHO) has provided guidelines to formulate country pharmaceutical pricing policies. However, little is known how these guidelines will be used in the country-specific setting. This commentary provides guiding principles and outlines the basis to form a medicines pricing policy in a low and middle-income country, Pakistan. It discusses the current medicines pricing policy and provides suggestions for future work. The suggested medicines pricing structure and lessons learned in this commentary can also be applied in other low-resource settings.
The Surrounds
Authors: Simone AbdouMaliq
Published: February 2022

In The Surrounds renowned urbanist AbdouMaliq Simone offers a new theorization of the interface of the urban and the political. Working at the intersection of Black studies, urban theory, and decolonial and Islamic thought, Simone centers the surrounds—those urban spaces beyond control and capture that exist as a locus of rebellion and invention. He shows that even in clearly defined city environments, whether industrial, carceral, administrative, or domestic, residents use spaces for purposes they were not designed for: schools become housing, markets turn into classrooms, tax offices transform into repair shops. The surrounds, Simone contends, are where nothing fits according to design. They are where forgotten and marginalized populations invent new relations and ways of living and being, continuously reshaping what individuals and collectives can do. Focusing less on what new worlds may come to be and more on what people are creating now, Simone shows how the surrounds are an integral part of the expansiveness of urban imagination.
Context-dependent influence of threat on honey bee social network dynamics and brain gene expression
Authors: Traniello Ian M. , Hamilton Adam R. , Gernat Tim , Cash-Ahmed Amy C. , Harwood Gyan P. , Ray Allyson M. , Glavin Abigail , Torres Jacob , Goldenfeld Nigel , Robinson Gene E.
Published: February 2022

Adverse social experience affects social structure by modifying the behavior of individuals, but the relationship between an individual's behavioral state and its response to adversity is poorly understood. We leveraged naturally occurring division of labor in honey bees and studied the biological embedding of environmental threat using laboratory assays and automated behavioral tracking of whole colonies. Guard bees showed low intrinsic levels of sociability compared with foragers and nurse bees, but large increases in sociability following exposure to a threat. Threat experience also modified the expression of caregiving-related genes in a brain region called the mushroom bodies. These results demonstrate that the biological embedding of environmental experience depends on an individual's societal role and, in turn, affects its future sociability.
An Organic Quantum Spin Liquid with Triangular Lattice: Spinon Fermi Surface and Scaling Behavior
Authors: Kusamoto Tetsuro , Ohde Chie , Sugiura Shiori , Yamashita Satoshi , Matsuoka Ryota , Terashima Taichi , Nakazawa Yasuhiro , Nishihara Hiroshi , Uji Shinya
Published: February 2022

Quantum spin liquid (QSL) is a novel quantum state of matter, where spins are strongly entangled and highly fluctuating even at very low temperature. In this study, an organic QSL was newly synthesized, and the structure and physical properties were investigated. The antiferromagnetic interaction (J ≈ 24 K) detected between the spins was much smaller than that in the other organic QSLs, while the χ0 and γ values were larger. The results enable significant scalings, γ, χ0 ∝ 1/J for all the organic QSLs, which show the formation of the spinon energy band with the width of J. These findings provide good evidence of the spinon Fermi surface in the QSLs, where the spinon excitation follows the Fermi liquid behavior.
Informed consent for stochastic effects of ionising radiation in diagnostic imaging
Authors: Mendelson Richard
Published: February 2022

The ethical and legal principles underpinning the requirement for informed consent for medical procedures are widely accepted. A recent BJR article has applied these principles to the issue of consent to ionising radiation (IR) from diagnostic imaging (DI), but the authors chose to put aside the practical problems associated with this. These problems should not be underestimated and arise from: uncertainties about the existence and magnitude of risk of stochastic effects of IR exposure in DI; the delayed manifestation of its effects; the heterogeneity of risk related to factors associated with individual sensitivity to IR, and dose variation even within examination classes and across clinical indications; and the difficulty of communication of these uncertainties and variations to patients. This article discusses these practical issues associated with consent for IR in DI.
EMI radiation of power transmission lines in Malaysia
Authors: Fikry Azhan , Lim Siow Chun , Ab Kadir Mohd Zainal Abidin
Published: February 2022

Background: There has been rising concern amongst the public regarding their home's proximity to high tension power transmission lines. The primary cause of fear is the impact of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) radiation on the nearby occupants' health. Despite the presence of national permissible limits of EMI radiation, there is still lack of information with regards to the EMI radiation of the types of power lines configuration in Malaysia.

Methods: The electric and magnetic fields of several selected power transmission lines were simulated using the EMFACDC software program from the recommendation ITU-T K.90. Five types of power transmission lines available in Malaysia are considered.

Results: It was found that the simulated electric and magnetic field levels at all the power lines' right of way (ROW) boundary complies with the prescribed exposure limit. However, the electromagnetic fields (EMF) level increases significantly as the separation distance is reduced from 30m. For a more conservative approach, the ROW can be set at 30m across all transmission voltage level and corridor area condition.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that Malaysia's power transmission lines are within the prescribed exposure limits. To further minimize the electric and magnetic field level, it is recommended that the residential building should be built at least 30 meters away from the power transmission lines, especially for the 275kV double circuit, 275/132kV quadruple circuit, and 500kV double circuit lines.
Case Report: Purtscher-like retinopathy in a patient with lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Mahmoud Anis , zaghdoudi Asma , Boucharb Soumaya , Abid Fatma , Mbarek Sameh , Ibn Hadj Amor Hassan , Braiek Sawssen , Keskes Boudawara Nadia , knani Jalel , Messaoud Riadh
Published: February 2022

This case report describes an unreported case of  Purtscher-like retinopathy in a patient with pulmonary adenocarcinoma. A 39-year-old man was hospitalized for exploration of a hemoptysis and bilateral blurry vision. Fundoscopic examination showed multiple areas of retinal whitening in the peripapillary area. A chest computed tomography scan then showed a ground glass opacity in the right upper lobe associated to a hilar lymphadenopathy.

A thoracotomy and lung biopsy were performed concluding with the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. The patient was treated with high-dose corticosteroids and received Taxol-Carboplatin chemotherapy with good visual outcomes.

The article discusses furthermore the importance of including pulmonary adenocarcinoma to the list of systemic conditions for Purtscher-like retinopathy.
Negative opinion on work as variable of career shift among doctors in Poland. Are we running out of doctors in post-COVID times?
Authors: Pruszyński Jacek , Cianciara Dorota , Engel Janusz , Zgliczyński Wojciech
Published: February 2022

Wprowadzenie i cel pracy. Warunki i ocena pracy, stres, wypalenie zawodowe wśród lekarzy są przedmiotem analiz i badań w Polsce. Mniej uwagi skupia problem odejścia od zawodu. Celem badania było określenie związku między cechami społeczno-demograficzno-zawodowymi lekarzy i subiektywną oceną ich aktualnej pracy a chęcią podjęcia kariery alternatywnej.

Materiał i metody. Przeprowadzono badanie ankietowe wśród 315 lekarzy odbywających kursy w Centrum Medycznym Kształcenia Podyplomowego w roku 2018/19. Kwestionariusz składał się z 14 pytań. Zmienną objaśnianą była deklaracja chęci zmiany zawodu lekarza na inny, jeśli utrzymanie dochodów byłoby możliwe. Zmiennymi objaśniającymi były cechy społeczno-demograficzno-zawodowe: płeć, wiek i wykonywanie zabiegowej i niezabiegowej specjalności lekarskiej oraz subiektywna ocena aktualnej pracy zawodowej w aspekcie 10 atrybutów pracy lekarza. W analizie wykorzystano test χ2 Pearsona, współczynnik korelacji rang Spearmana oraz klasteryzację.

Wyniki. Zdecydowana większość lekarzy przyznała, że ich praca jest interesująca (95,9%), ale nerwowa (90,5%) i zagrażająca (77,8%). Nerwowość była istotnie częściej wskazywana przez młodych lekarzy. Chęć zmiany zawodu zadeklarowało 18,1% lekarzy. Chęć zmiany zawodu była najsilniej związana z opinią, że praca jest nieprzyjemna i odrażająca.

Wnioski. Więcej lekarzy zgłaszało wady swojej pracy niż jej zalety. Co piąty zadeklarował chęć zmiany zawodu. Chęć zmiany zawodu była silnie związana z całościowo negatywną oceną własnej pracy. Przypuszczalnie w wyniku pandemii COVID-19 coraz więcej lekarzy będzie negatywnie oceniać swoją pracę, co może skłaniać do zmiany zawodu. Sytuacja ta wymaga monitorowania wpływu COVID-19 na kadrę oraz podejmowania środków zaradczych.
Optimal Use and Replenishment of Two Substitutable Raw Materials in a Stochastic Capacitated Make-to-Order Production System
Authors: Chen Qi (George) , Duenyas Izak , Jasin Stefanus
Published: February 2022

Problem definition: We study a multiperiod, nonstationary, make-to-order, joint production and inventory model where two kinds of input raw materials with availability uncertainties and different output conversion rates can be blended and then processed in a production line with stochastic capacity to produce the output product. Academic/practical relevance: The problem is motivated by the practice in coal-fired power plants, an important part of the energy sector, where two types of coal with different energy content per unit mass are blended for electrical power generation. Our model is the first to capture the key operational features in this context. Methodology: We model the problem as a Markov decision process and develop a novel approximate optimization approach to analyze and characterize the structure of the optimal policy. Results: We show that a use-down-to/balancing production policy and modified order-up-to ordering policy is optimal. We also propose a heuristic policy based on piece-wise linear value function approximation. Whereas computing the value function approximation via brute-force is time-consuming because of the curse of dimensionality, we leverage the structure of the optimal policy to develop an algorithm that greatly improves the computational time of the value function approximation. Our numerical studies on both a synthetic data set and real-world data show that the proposed heuristic provides significant profit improvement over three simpler straw policies, some of which are used in practice. Managerial implications: Our paper suggests the significant profit improvement opportunity of using our proposed policy and demonstrates how one can develop computationally more efficient heuristic policies by leveraging the structure of the optimal policy.
Postexercise hypotension and heart rate variability response after water- and land-based high-intensity interval exercise in prehypertensive obese men
Authors: Sriton Bhuwanat , Ruangthai Ratree , Phoemsapthawee Jatuporn
Published: February 2022

A randomized crossover trial was carried out in prehypertensive obese men to compare postexercise hypotension and heart rate variability (HRV) following water-based and land-based high-intensity interval exercises (HIIEs). Nine prehypertensive obese participants, aged 23.6 ± 2.4 years, were randomly assigned to one of three interventions: no-exercise control, HIIE with immersion up to the chest, or HIIE on dry land. In the evenings of three separate days, participants performed either of the interventions. Matched with exercise volume, both HIIEs composed of 5 repetitions of 30-sec sprints at maximum effort followed by a 4-min rest. Ambulatory blood pressure and HRV were measured before the interventions and over the 24-hr following period. Both HIIEs resulted in significant reductions of average 24-hr mean arterial pressure (-6.7 mmHg). Notably, the water-based HIIE resulted in a significantly higher reduction of 24-hr systolic blood pressure (SBP) (-9 mmHg) than the land-based HIIE, particularly at night, in addition to a significantly longer duration of postexercise hypotension. Finally, the water-based HIIE was more effective at restoring HRV during recovery. Our findings demonstrated postexercise hypotension following the HIIEs, particularly the water-based HIIE. During recovery, the water-based HIIE was remarkably effective at restoring HRV. These findings indicate that water-based HIIE is more effective at reducing SBP and requires less recovery time than land-based HIIE in prehypertensive obese men.
Effect of regular endurance exercises on management of cardiovascular health in middle-aged men
Authors: Lee Bo-Ae , Kim Young-Joo
Published: February 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of regular endurance exercises on the management of cardiovascular health in middle-aged men. The following conclusions were drawn as the result of comparatively analyzing middle-aged men who regularly performed triathlon and cycling exercises for more than 5 years. The effect of regular endurance exercises on cardiovascular health management in middle-aged men was found to be relatively positive. However, prolonged endurance exercises can cause cardiovascular disease which can adversely affect the cardiac function, and to date, no defining limit is known about the amount of exercise that improves the cardiovascular function while reducing the cardiovascular events. Therefore, aiming for exercises at moderate intensity that befit the individual’s fitness level as well as conducting regular examinations to predict and manage the risk of sudden cardiac death from exercising were considered as the more effective method of cardiovascular health management.
Association among cognitive function, physical fitness, and health status in older women
Authors: Kang Suh-Jung , Kim Byung-Hoon , Lee Hyo , Wang Jinsung
Published: February 2022

This study examined the association among cognitive function, physical fitness, and health status in healthy older women. Ninety-four females aged from 62 to 86 years (72.66 ± 5.38 years) from community healthcare centers and an exercise club in Seoul, South Korea. Cognitive function was assessed using the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery. Physical performance comprised cardiorespiratory endurance, lower extremity strength, active balance ability, and walking speed. Health status included blood pressure and waist circumference. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship among cognitive function, fitness components, and health status, with age and educational attainment as covariates. In the unadjusted model, attention was significantly associated with cardiovascular endurance (B = 0.19, P < 0.05). Memory was significantly associated with lower limb strength (B = 0.77, P < 0.05) and active balance ability (B = 2.35, P < 0.05). In the adjusted model, attention was significantly associated with cardiovascular endurance (B = 0.15, P < 0.05). Memory was significantly associated with lower limb strength (B = 0.87, P < 0.05). In both models, cognitive function was not significantly associated with any health status variable. Though limited by a relatively small sample of female participants, who were healthy registrants of a community exercise program with normal cognitive function, the current study demonstrates that cognitive function is significantly associated with physical fitness, but not with health status, in healthy older women.
Aerobic exercise is an independent determinant of levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in middle-aged obese females
Authors: Park Kyung-Shin , Nickerson Brett S.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a 4-week moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on changes of body composition and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress independent from weight loss in middle-aged obese females. Thity-five obese females were randomly assigned to either an exercise (EX, N = 16) or control (CON, N = 19) group. The EX performed moderate intensity aerobic exercise on the treadmill for 60 min at 55% of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) for 4 weeks (3 days/wk). Body composition measurement with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and blood collection were conducted before and after the 4-weeks intervention. Blood samples were used to measure levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein, adiponectin, total antioxidant status (TAS), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine. Four weeks of aerobic exercise intervention significantly increased VO2max in EX (P < 0.001). EX also observed a decrease in TNF-α (P = 0.033) and an increase in TAS (P = 0.028) without changes in body weight and fat mass after 4 weeks of aerobic exercise training. No changes were observed in CON after the intervention. Results of this study indicate that moderate aerobic exercises may contribute, at least a part, to reductions of inflammation and oxidative stress independently from fat loss. Therefore, it may reduce risks of obesity-associated disorders in middle-aged obese females.
Paracrine effects of adipose-derived stem cells in cutaneous wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Luo Hua , Wang Yongjian , Su Yongwei , Liu Danping , Xiao Haijun , Wu Ming , Zhao Yong , Xue Feng
Published: February 2022

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to explore the paracrine effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) on cutaneous wound healing in diabetic rats

Method:

The ASCs were isolated and identified by immunofluorescent staining. The ASCs-conditioned medium (ASCs-CM) was harvested. Cell counting kit (CCK)-8 assay, scratch experiments, western blot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed to observe the effects of ASCs-CM on fibroblasts. A full-thickness skin wound diabetic rat model was prepared, using 34 male, Sprague Dawley rats. ASCs-CM or negative-control medium (N-CM) was injected around the wound surface. The existing wound area was measured on days 4, 8, 12 and 16 after the postoperative day, and the wound tissues were collected for immunohistochemical staining and qPCR quantitative study.

Results:

In this experiment, the isolated cells were characterised as ASCs. The results of CCK-8 assay, cell scratch test, western blot and qPCR showed ASCs-CM could significantly promote the proliferation, migration and differentiation of fibroblasts. Simultaneously, the healing rate of full-thickness skin wounds in diabetic rats was significantly higher in the ASCs-CM group than the N-CM group on days 4, 8, 12 and 16. Immunohistochemical staining and qPCR results showed that the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, days 4 and 8), α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) (days 4 and 16), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 (days 4, 8 and 12) were higher in the ASCs-CM group than that of the N-CM group (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

This experiment demonstrated that ASCs-CM may accelerate wound healing in diabetic rats by promoting the secretion of TGF-β1, VEGF and the proliferation, migration and differentiation of fibroblasts.
Bid from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Authors: Kirsner Robert S
Published: February 2022

The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine sets out its bid for the WUWHS 2026 Congress to be held in Miami, US.
On decompositions of matrices into products of commutators of involutions
Authors: Nam Son Tran , Huu Dung Truong , Thi Thai Ha Nguyen , Hoang Bien Mai
Published: February 2022

Let $F$ be a field and let $n$ be a natural number greater than $1$. The aim of this paper is to prove that if $F$ contains at least three elements, then every matrix in the special linear group $\mathrm{SL}_n(F)$ is a product of at most two commutators of involutions.
An intersectional analysis of domestic abuse perpetrator service adaptation during COVID-19: findings from the UK, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Romania
Authors: Healy Jane , Levell Jade , Cole Terri
Published: February 2022

This research draws upon an international study investigating domestic violence perpetrator support services from five European countries, which was conducted during 2020. Front-line professionals from the partner countries took part in focus groups which focused on the positives and negatives of perpetrator support provision. This article reports specifically on findings that pertained to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. All of the participating countries, the UK, Italy, Romania, Greece and Cyprus, reported increases in domestic violence and abuse, as a result of ‘lockdowns’, home quarantines and restrictions of movement on the general population. Alongside this increasing level of reported gender-based violence, many perpetrator intervention and prevention programmes have had to adapt to online or alternative methods of service provision. In this article we use intersectionality to analyse the impact of remote service delivery. We raise key equality issues in the shift to remote working, which risks having ableist ramifications. We conclude by emphasising the importance of increased and sustained funding that acknowledges the service increases during the pandemic.
Teachers 3.0: Patterns of use of five digital tools.
Authors: García Martín Sheila , Cantón-Mayo Isabel
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, improvements in teaching are closely related to the use of technologies which have been defined as unprecedented educational tools. This study analyzes the use that 118 Spanish teachers make of five digital tools; Google, Wikis, Blogs, YouTube and WhatsApp in the educational center and the impact of the socio-labor variables of these teachers on the greater or lesser use of digital tools for teaching and evaluation. To this end, a questionnaire is designed and validated, in both its versions, printed and online, and two types of analysis are carried out, one descriptive and the other multivariate, using General Linear Model. The results show different patterns in the use of digital tools by teachers according to their age, gender, professional experience, type of school and performance of academic positions. The implications of these results are discussed and evaluated.
Estudio comparativo de la evaluación a través de ejercicios sobre texto y vídeo para la identificación de elementos de una investigación científica
Authors: Cebrián-Robles Daniel , Pérez-Galán Rafael , Quero-Torres Natalia
Published: February 2022

En la evaluación se utiliza cada vez más tecnologías como el vídeo digital por sus funcionalidades (anotaciones, ontologías y etiquetado social). Este trabajo pretende experimentar y evaluar el impacto de estas tecnologías emergentes en la formación inicial de docentes, comparando modelos tradicionales de evaluación en papel versus vídeo digital para evaluar competencias científicas en contenidos de vídeo que profusamente encontramos en las redes. La evaluación con anotaciones en el vídeo es una funcionalidad muy reciente e innovadora que ha sido poco investigada. Esta investigación responde a la pregunta ¿existen diferencias en cuanto a cantidad y calidad de elementos científicos identificados por los estudiantes cuando se utilizan procedimientos de evaluación en papel versus vídeo digital? Para evaluar la calidad de las respuestas se aplicó una rúbrica digital analizando 549 anotaciones y se utilizó la prueba estadística de Wilcoxon para la correlaciones. Se encuentra que no había diferencias significativas en cuanto a la cantidad de elementos identificados, pero sí en cuanto a la calidad, siendo mejores las respuestas realizadas con el vídeo. También se ofrece un modelo de utilización de anotaciones de vídeos para la adquisición de competencias científicas y una rúbrica para evaluar estas competencias.