bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of dental pain and psychosocial factors on the relationship between dental caries and oral health-related quality of life in children
Authors: Ribeiro Junior Cilio Antonio , Vettore Mario Vianna , Rebelo Vieira Janete Maria , Corrêa de Queiroz Ana Paula , de Queiroz Adriana Corrêa , Pereira Juliana Vianna , Herkrath Fernando José , Rebelo Maria Augusta Bessa
Published: August 2022

Background

To examine the role of dental pain, sense of coherence (SOC) and social support on the relationship between dental caries and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged 12 years.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 400 schoolchildren selected from public schools in a socioeconomically disadvantaged region in the city of Manaus, Brazil was carried out. The predictors of OHRQoL were selected according to the Wilson and Cleary theoretical model, including number of decayed teeth and its clinical consequence (component D of the DMFT index and PUFA/pufa index), dental pain (symptom status), and SOC and social support (individual and environmental characteristics). Statistical analysis was conducted through structural equation modelling and multivariable negative binomial regression. The significance level established for all analyses was 5%.

Results

Number of dental caries was indirectly linked with OHRQoL (β = 0.19, 95% CI 0.11/0.29) through dental pain, SOC and social support. Clinical consequences of untreated caries directly predicted poor OHRQoL (β = 0.12, 95% CI 0.01/0.23). Dental pain, SOC and social support did not moderate the effect of dental caries measures on OHRQoL.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest the role of dental pain, SOC and social support as mediator factors on the link between dental caries and OHRQoL. Tackling dental caries along with psychosocial factors may attenuated the impact of oral health on OHRQoL in children.
Organizational arrangements as a key to enhancing innovativeness and efficiency – analysis of a restructuring hospital in Finland
Authors: Kajamaa Anu , Hurmelinna-Laukkanen Pia
Published: August 2022

Background

Challenged to innovate and improve efficiency both at the policy level and in everyday work, many health care organizations are undergoing radical change. However, in many earlier studies, the significance of individuals’ perceptions of their organization and its innovativeness and efficiency during restructuring is not well acknowledged. Our study examines how various organizational arrangements; performance-, hierarchy-, tradition-, and leader-focused types, as well as collaborative and fragmented ones, connect to reaching innovativeness and efficiency in health care during restructuring.

Method

We built on previous organization and management research, innovation studies, and on research focusing in health care restructuring, and conducted an exploratory quantitative case study in a public sector hospital in Finland. Data comprising 447 responses from 19 professional groups across the hospital was analyzed using hierarchical regression analysis.

Results

Our results demonstrate that multiple, co-existing organizational arrangements can promote innovation and efficiency. The perceptions of the organizational members of the nature of their organization need to be generally positive and reflect future-orientation to show positive connections with efficiency and innovativeness; fragmentation in the members’ perceptions of the character of their organization and their inability to go beyond established organizational traditions pose risks of inefficiency and stagnation rather than fruitful exploration. Our study further shows, somewhat surprisingly, that while collaborative organizational arrangements are positively related to increases in perceived efficiency, the same does not apply to innovativeness.

Conclusions

Our study addresses understudied, yet inherently important aspects in providing high-quality health care: the relationships between different organizational arrangements and exploitation and exploration-related outcomes. In particular, examination of individuals’ perceptions (that may have even more weight for the subsequent developments than the actual situation) adds insight to the existing knowledge that has addressed more objective factors. Implications on how to support high levels of performance are drawn for management of professional and pluralistic organizations undergoing restructuring. Our findings also generate information that is useful for policy making concerned with public sector health care.
A qualitative descriptive study of a novel nurse-led skin cancer screening model in rural Australia
Authors: Glenister Kristen , Witherspoon Sophie , Crouch Alan
Published: August 2022

Background

People residing in rural areas have higher rates of skin cancer and face barriers to accessing care. Models of skin cancer care addressing the specific needs of rural communities and overcoming specific challenges are required, but literature is scarce. This study aimed to describe the elements of a nurse-led skin cancer model in rural Victoria using qualitative methodology and programme logic to inform implementation and ongoing sustainability.

Methods

Qualitative descriptive design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders involved in the skin cancer model, namely health service executive management, clinical staff, and administration staff. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were thematically analysed independently by two researchers before themes were compared and refined. A programme logic model was developed to organise themes into contextual elements, inputs, activities and anticipated outcomes; it was also used as a visual tool to aid discussions with key stakeholders. Member checking of the logic model occurred to verify interpretation. This programme logic model will be refined throughout the implementation phase, and again after three years of service delivery.

Results

Eight stakeholders participated in interviews. Thematic analysis identified three major themes: the influence of the local rural context, the elements of the model, and “making it happen’. These major themes and accompanying sub-themes were mapped to the programme logic model by contextual elements (rural locale, health service access barriers, burden of disease), key inputs (promotion, human resources including appropriate nurse training and leadership) and ‘making it happen’ (governance including referral pathways, flexible and sustained funding, and partnerships). The anticipated outcomes identified include skin cancer care delivered locally, timely access, career development for nurses, and decreased skin cancer burden.

Conclusion

An initiative that is place-based and community driven in response to consumer demand addresses key system barriers to earlier detection of skin cancers. It is anticipated to result in flow-on reductions in skin cancer disease burden. Programme logic was useful to both describe the initiative and as a visual tool for discussions, with the potential to inform wider health service efforts to address system barriers and bottlenecks.
Retraction Note to: Linc00210 drives Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation and liver tumor progression through CTNNBIP1-dependent manner
Authors: Fu Xiaomin , Zhu Xiaoyan , Qin Fujun , Zhang Yong , Lin Jizhen , Ding Yuechao , Yang Zihe , Shang Yiman , Wang Li , Zhang Qinxian , Gao Quanli
Published: August 2022

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12943-018-0783-3.
Mental health in Italy after two years of COVID-19 from the perspective of 1281 Italian physicians: looking back to plan forward
Authors: Cuomo Alessandro , Amore Mario , Arezzo Maria Felice , De Filippis Sergio , De Rose Alessandra , La Pia Silvestro , Pirani Alessandro , Torta Riccardo , Fagiolini Andrea
Published: August 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has generated an unprecedented global crisis that is profoundly affecting mental health and mental health care. The aim of this study was to survey a relatively large group of Italian physicians about their perceived impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of the Italian population and about their suggestions on the best strategies to address the current and future challenges.

Methods

One thousand two hundred eighty-one (1,281) physicians were surveyed between November 2021 and February 2022.

Results

Eighty-one percent of respondents reported an increase in the number of people with mental illness presenting to their practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-four percent reported a 26–50% increase in the number of people with mental illness in their community; approximately 33% reported a 1–25% increase; and 26.9% reported a 51–75% increase. The most commonly reported mental issues that increased because of COVID-19 were agitation, mood and anxiety disorders. Regarding the suggested strategies to address future challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, 34.6% of respondents recommended providing psychoeducation to the general population for early detection of mental illness and developing strategies to reduce the impact of COVID-19-related stress. In addition, 12.6% of respondents suggested improving telehealth services, while 12.3% suggested the need for increased funding for community-based care. When asked about physicians' opinion on the possibility of an increased prevalence of mental illness in the next 12 months, more than 30% of them predicted an increase in stress-related illnesses, while 25.2% were more concerned about a worsening of the ongoing clinical conditions of patients with previous psychiatric disorders. However, 21% of respondents believed that people's ability to cope with the pandemic would increase in the next 12 months.

Conclusions

This study confirmed a strong and negative impact on the mental health of the past 2 years of COVID-19 pandemic in the Italian population. Providing psychoeducation to the general population and improving the availability of telemedicine services could reduce the impact of future challenges related to the pandemic.
Changes in physical fitness and body composition of pilot cadets before and after a process of directed flight preparation
Authors: Prokopczyk Adam , Wochyński Zbigniew
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The aim of the study was to check the changes in the level of physical fitness and body composition after a directed training process in cadets—pilots, in relation to control group.

Material and methods

The study involved 29 cadets studying at the Air Force Military Academy in Dęblin. Group A (study group)—second year pilots (n = 17), male, with an average age of 19.94 ± 1.3 years, studying to become an aircraft pilot, who realized 35-h directed training process based on the Aviation Synthetic Efficiency Test (ASET) and group B (control group)—second year in the field of ground navigation (n = 12), male, with an average age of 19.83 ± 1.27 years, completing the standard physical education process. In both groups, the fitness tests and physiological studies were conducted twice time: before starting the training process—study I; after the training process—study II. Fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), muscle mass (MM), total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW) and intracellular water (ICW) were measurement with using the bioimpedance method with using body composition analyzer the AKERN 101 type BIA 101SE.

Results

In group A in study II, fitness was at a good level, while in group B it was below the standard expected for pilots. There was statistically significant decrease in fat mass (FM) and increase in fat-free mass (FFM), muscle mass (MM), total body water (TBW) in group A compared to group B. In study II, group A showed no significant correlation between ASET and FM, FFM, MM, TBW while group B showed statistically significant correlations.

Conclusions

The results obtained in study II showed an increase in directed physical fitness in groups A and B, as measured by ASET. In both groups A and B, the training process decreased FM and increased FFM, MM, and TBW, but a greater effect of these changes was observed in group A.
Virtual screening and molecular dynamic simulations of the antimalarial derivatives of 2-anilino 4-amino substituted quinazolines docked against a Pf-DHODH protein target
Authors: Ibrahim Zakari Ya’u , Uzairu Adamu , Shallangwa Gideon Adamu , Abechi Stephen Eyije , Isyaku Sulaiman
Published: August 2022

Background

The processes of drug development and validation are too expensive to be subjected to experimental trial and errors. Hence, the use of the insilico approach becomes imperative. To this effect, the drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties of the ten (10) previously designed derivatives of 2-anilino 4-amino substituted quinazolines were carried out. Their predicted ligand binding interactions were also carried out by docking them against thePlasmodium falciparumdihydroorotate dehydrogenase (Pf-DHODH) protein target, and the stability of the complex was determined through dynamic simulations. The drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic characteristics were estimated using the online SwissADME software, while the Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) software was used for molecular docking. And the dynamic simulation was performed for the duration of 100 ns to verify the stability of the docked complex, with the aid of a Schrödinger program, Desmond.

Results

The designed derivatives were all found to pass the Lipinski test of drug likeness, while the pharmacokinetic studies result that the skin permeability and molar refractivity values of the derivatives are both within the limits. In addition, except for derivative C-01, most of the derivatives have strong gastrointestinal absorptions and lack Pgp substrate. Furthermore, no derivative inhibited CYP1A2, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19. The docking studies show the better binding affinities between the ligands andPf-DHODH than those between the atovaquone or chloroquine standards. The derivative C-02, {5-((6,7-dimethoxy-4-((3-nitrobenzyl)amino)quinazolin-2-yl)amino)-2-fluorobenzaldehyde} was found to be the most stable derivative, with a re-rank docking score of − 173.528 kcal/mol and interaction energy of − 225.112 kcal/mol. The dynamic simulation analysis shows that the derivative C-02 forms a stable complex with the protein target over the simulation time.

Conclusions

The ability of these ligands to form hydrogen bonds, as well as various other interactions, was cited as a factor responsible for their better binding affinity. These findings could aid further the development of enhanced antimalarial drugs.
Effects of sleep quality on the association between problematic internet use and quality of life in people with substance use disorder
Authors: Saffari Mohsen , Chen Hsin-Pao , Chang Ching-Wen , Fan Chia-Wei , Huang Shih-Wei , Chen Jung-Sheng , Chang Kun-Chia , Lin Chung-Ying
Published: August 2022

Background

Problematic internet use, especially in people with substance use disorder, may negatively affect their quality of life (QoL). However, it is unclear whether sleep quality is a key mediator in the association between problematic internet use and QoL among people with substance use disorder.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between problematic internet use and QoL and how sleep quality may mediate the association between these two variables.

Method

Overall, 319 people (85% male) with substance use disorder (mean age 42.2 years, s.d. 8.9) participated in a cross-sectional study in Taiwan. The Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale, Bergan Social Media Addiction Scale, Internet Gaming Disorder-Short Form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire Brief Version were used.

Results

The prevalence of sleep problems was 56%. There were significant and direct associations between sleep quality and two types of problematic internet use, and between sleep quality and different dimensions of QoL. All types of problematic internet use were significantly and negatively correlated with QoL. Mediated effects of sleep quality in relationships between the different types of problematic internet use and all dimensions of QoL were significant, except for problematic use of social media.

Conclusions

Different types of problematic internet use in people with substance use disorder may be directly associated with reduced QoL. Sleep quality as a significant mediator in this association may be an underlying mechanism to explain pathways between problematic internet use and QoL in this population.
Improving treatment of patients with psychosis in low-and-middle-income countries in Southeast Europe: Results from a hybrid effectiveness-implementation, pragmatic, cluster-randomized clinical trial (IMPULSE)
Authors: Jovanović N. , Russo M. , Pemovska T. , Francis J. J. , Arenliu A. , Bajraktarov S. , Džubur Kulenović A. , Injac Stevović L. , Novotni A. , Andrić Petrović S. , Radojičić T. , Ribić E. , Konjufca J. , Marić N. P.
Published: August 2022

Background

In Southeast Europe (SEE) standard treatment of patients with psychosis is largely based on pharmacotherapy with psychosocial interventions rarely available. DIALOG+ is a digital psychosocial intervention designed to make routine care therapeutically effective. This trial simultaneously examined effectiveness of DIALOG+ versus standard care on clinical and social outcomes (Aim 1) and explored intervention fidelity (Aim 2).

Methods

A hybrid type II effectiveness–implementation, cluster-randomized trial was conducted in five SEE countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The intervention was offered to patients six times across 12 months instead of routine care. The outcomes were subjective quality of life (primary), clinical symptoms, satisfaction with services, and economic costs. Intervention fidelity was operationalized as adherence to the protocol in terms of frequency, duration, content, and coverage. Data were analyzed using multilevel regression.

Results

A total of 81 clinicians and 468 patients with psychosis were randomized to DIALOG+ or standard care. The intervention was delivered with high fidelity. The average number of delivered sessions was 5.5 (SD = 2.3) across 12 months. Patients in the intervention arm had better quality of life (MANSA) at 6 months (p = 0.03). No difference was found for other outcomes at 6 months. Due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, 12-month data were not interpretable.

Conclusions

DIALOG+ improved subjective quality of life of individuals with psychosis at 6 months (after four sessions), albeit with small effect size. The intervention has the potential to contribute to holistic care of patients with psychosis.
Exercise is Medicine on Campus: A Scoping Review of Evidence 2009 to 2021 and Call to Action
Authors: Peterson Neil E. , Zera Jacquelyn N. , Tompkins Connie L. , Rothermel Megan A. , Davidson Carrie , Mandla Shelby , Jeffreys-Heil Renee , Shirazi Zainab , Stuhr Robyn M. , Winters Carena S.
Published: August 2022

The Exercise is Medicine On Campus (EIM-OC) program began in 2009 at Chatham University by Dr. Robert Sallis, Dr. Carena Winters, and ACSM leadership. The vision of EIM-OC is “to see all campus and community members across multiple disciplines discover, share, and adopt the principles of EIM that will help change the culture of physical activity and chronic disease prevention and management campus wide.” Although EIM-OC maintains close track of programmatic details, such as the number of registered and recognized institutions, a comprehensive review of EIM-OC publications has not been previously reported. The purpose of this scoping review was to 1) identify and examine all peer-reviewed evidence of EIM-OC, including scholarly articles and published abstracts of presentations; 2) analyze the key themes of EIM-OC implementation and outcomes; and 3) identify gaps in the literature. The scoping review covered all peer-reviewed publications, including scholarly articles and published abstracts, from 2009 to December 2021. In total, 9 scholarly articles and 46 published abstracts were included in this review. The articles and abstracts covered a wide range of topics, including gold level (physical activity assessment and exercise referral), silver level (physical activity education), and bronze level (physical activity awareness and promotion) activities, as well as evaluation of EIM-OC programming. Now that EIM-OC programming is firmly established, we now call on campuses and leaders to strengthen their reporting of EIM-OC outcomes at all levels: gold, silver, and bronze. Publishing research evidence will strengthen EIM-OC programming and initiatives. Specifically, we encourage publishing scholarly articles and using broad means for increasing dissemination.
Radiomics based on diffusion-weighted imaging for differentiation between focal-type autoimmune pancreatitis and pancreatic carcinoma
Authors: Shiraishi Megumi , Igarashi Takao , Hiroaki Fujioka , Oe Rika , Ohki Kazuyoshi , Ojiri Hiroya
Published: August 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the parameters of support vector machine (SVM) using imaging data generated from the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) to differentiate between focal-type autoimmune pancreatitis (f-AIP) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) when using SVM based on diffusion-weighted imaging.

Methods:

The 2D-ADCmean and texture parameters (16 texture features × [non-filter+17 filters]) were retrospectively segmented by 2 readers in 28 patients with f-AIP and 77 patients with pathologically proven PDAC. The diagnostic accuracy of the SVM model was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and calculation of the area under the curve (AUC). Interreader reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:

The 2D-ADCmean and 3D-ADCmean were significantly lower in cases of f-AIP (1.10–1.15 × 10–3 mm2/s and 1.21–1.23× 10–3 mm2/s, respectively) vs PDAC (1.29–1.33 × 10–3 mm2/s and 1.41–1.43 × 10–3 mm2/s, respectively), with excellent and good interreader reliability, respectively (ICC = 0.909 and 0.891, respectively). Among the texture parameters, energy with exponential filtering yielded the highest AUC (Reader 1: 74.7%, Reader 2: 81.5%), with fair interreader reliability (ICC = 0.707). The non-linear SVM, a combination of 2D-ADCmean, object volume and exponential-energy showed an AUC value of 96.2% in the testing cohorts.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that non-linear SVM using a combination of 2D-ADCmean, object volume, and exponential-energy may assist in differentiating f-AIP from PDAC.

Advances in knowledge:

The radiomics based on an apparent diffusion coefficient value may assist in differentiating f-AIP from PDAC.
Physical therapists’ use of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Elsayed Walaa , Albagmi Faisal , Alghamdi Mohammed , Farrag Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Background: Physical therapy (PT) services can be essential for recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Maintaining an efficient healthcare service is achieved by ensuring the safety of a well-informed healthcare practitioner. This study aimed to assess the sources of knowledge, attitude, experience, and accessibility to the personal protective equipment (PPE) of the physical therapists working in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to survey on-duty PT practitioners using a web-based questionnaire. Licensed PT practitioners were invited to participate, and a sample of 424 therapists responded. The questionnaire comprised of 22 questions covering the demographic data and the following domains: sources of knowledge regarding the pandemic, experience, and attitude of the therapists during the pandemic, and accessibility to the PPE.

Results: Around 83% of the participants (352) completed all the survey questions. Governmental websites were the most used source of knowledge (39%). Hand sanitization was implemented by the majority of participants (81%). Participants, mainly males and experienced therapist, were willing to treat COVID-19 patients. The COVID-19 complications of prolonged ventilation and immobilization were successfully treated by 91.2% of participants who treated positive cases. About a third of the participants were part of COVID-19 management planning teams or received training to deal with the pandemic. Most of the necessary PPE was adequately accessible during the pandemic.

Conclusions: Therapists implemented the recommended hygienic practices and had no problems accessing the necessary PPE. More efforts should target therapists’ education about the social media misleading information and involving the therapists in the pandemic management planning teams.
Lessons from Indonesia, a country with highest COVID-19 mortality rate in the world: dissecting multiple aspects
Authors: Miftahussurur Muhammad , Savitri Camilia Metadea Aji , Waskito Langgeng Agung , Rezkitha Yudith Annisa Ayu , Dhamanti Inge , Indriani Diah , Suyanto Bagong , Rianda Raissa Virgy , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: August 2022

COVID-19 has been infecting every continent and Indonesia had suffered greatly as it ranked first for confirmed cases in Southeast Asia region with almost 100,000 deaths. We summarized Indonesian population demographic, socio-behavior, multiple government policy and public health interventions contributed to the high mortality.

Although the virulence of COVID-19 strain was found to be similar as other countries, it might be inaccurate due to the low amount of sequenced genome and publicly accessible data of the virus’ strain. As Indonesia recorded higher testing number than WHO’s target, there were imbalances of testing capacity between capital cities and remote areas, hence the actual case number would be larger. The availability of healthcare facilities and skilled healthcare workers were also dispersed unequally, causing Indonesian health systems near collapsing. Moreover, individual sense of urgency and hazard of the pandemic were low, as shown by the low compliance of wearing masks and social distancing. Even though Indonesia was unprepared early in the pandemic, currently these systems are being improved.

Indonesia has experienced an extensive problem in conquering the pandemic, hence, the country needed a comprehensive approach from the government, citizens, even private sectors to cease the pandemic.
Case Report: Extensive digital gangrene as a primary manifestation of late-onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Boussaid Soumaya , Ben Majdouba Marouene , Rekik Sonia , Jemmali Samia , Zouaoui Khaoula , Rahmouni Safa , Sahli Hela , Elleuch Mohamed
Published: August 2022

Background: Digital gangrene is a rare but serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It occurs usually in middle-aged patients with longer disease duration.

Case: Herein we report the case of a 56-year-old man (with no history suggestive of Raynaud’s phenomenon, diabetes mellitus, smoking, trauma, infection, or chemical exposure), who presented with SLE and digital gangrene was among the first signs. He presented with a one-month history of joint pain, hair loss, photosensitivity, mouth ulcers, malar rash, dyspnea, and digital pain. Physical examination revealed painful and diffuse erythematous skin lesions in the extremities and back, as well as cyanosis in the fingers. We noted lymphocytopenia (600 cells/mm3), and an elevated C-reactive protein (15.1 mg/l) on laboratory tests. Immunological tests were positive for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) with Title 1:400. Pulmonary computed tomography revealed pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary function tests revealed the restrictive pulmonary disease. Diagnosis of SLE with lung involvement was retained. The immunological assessment in search of elements in favor of a vascular origin of the patient's skin lesions was negative. Treatment was initiated with 200 mg/day hydroxychloroquine. For dermal and pulmonary involvement, intravenous (IV) pulse therapy was used with methylprednisolone (1,000 mg/d for three consecutive days monthly) and cyclophosphamide (1 g/month). Calcium blocking agents were also prescribed. However, the lesions did not improve. The patient was given two infusions of rituximab (1 g) at a 14-day interval with a marked improvement of the majority of vasculitis lesions, and a partial improvement of dyspnea.

Conclusions: Digital gangrene is a rare complication of late-onset SLE, especially as a primary manifestation.
Serum levels of α1-antitrypsin, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 in Iraqi COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Abd Hayder A. , Kasim Ali A. , Shareef Laith G.
Published: August 2022

Background: More than half of the individuals diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been found to have high levels of interleukin (IL)-6. A recent report showed that more elevated serum IL-6 level predicts COVID-19 disease severity and patients’ clinical outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the serum levels of α1-antitrypsin (AAT), IL-1β, and IL-6 between COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals.

Methods: During the data collection phase, 90 individuals were enrolled, 45 healthy controls, and 45 patients confirmed with COVID-19 using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) at a specialized isolation hospital in Baghdad between November 2021 and March 2022. In this cross-sectional research, venous blood samples were taken, and serum was isolated and stored for quantitative ELISA measurements of AAT, IL-1β, and IL-6 (ELISA). IBM SPSS version 24 was used to analyze the data.

Results: This study revealed a significant increase in the serum levels of AAT, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the COVID-19 patients' group compared to the healthy control group with p-values < 0.001 for each of these markers.

Conclusions: AAT concentrations were higher during COVID-19; this elevation is essential during infection. IL-1β and IL-6 levels were also elevated during the infection period; however, dysregulated high levels may lead to cytokine release syndrome. Therefore, these three biomarkers can be regarded as diagnostically crucial parameters.
RESISTANCE OF WINTER WHEAT VARIETIES TO THE MAIN DISEASES IN THE FOREST CLIMATIC ZONE OF THE RYAZAN REGION
Authors: Levakova Olga , Kostanyants Margarita
Published: August 2022

Phytopathological studies of 31 varieties of soft winter wheat were carried out in 2017-2021 in the forest-steppe agro-climatic zone of the Ryazan region. The study of the material took place on a natural infectious background in a collection nursery on plots of 3.0 m2, without repetition. The soil of the experimental site is dark gray forest, heavy loamy in granulometric composition, average fertility level. Among the studied set of varieties, not a single variety with complete absence of signs of damage has been identified for all the years of research. In general, most of the studied varieties had fairly good resistance to pathogens. Thus, a significant majority of the studied samples for resistance to powdery mildew (disease development up to 30...45%), brown rust (degree of disease development <5...10 %) and septoria (disease development <10...20%) are attributed to the group of highly resistant varieties. But of particular value for breeding are varieties of winter wheat that exhibit complex resistance. A group of varieties has been formed that has complex resistance to two diseases simultaneously: powdery mildew and septoria - Amber 50, Moskovskaya 56, Isctar; to septoria and brown rust - Nemchinovskaya 24, Viola, Scepter, Dolya, Poem, Isctar; to powdery mildew and brown rust – Isctar. The Isctar variety had complex resistance to three types of phytopathogens. High resistance to lodging (more than 8.0 points) was noted in the varieties Tambor, Isztar, MV Nador, Mironovskaya 29, Mirleben, Anka, MV-27-12, Dmitry. On average, over the years of research, the protein content in the grain was at a high level and amounted to 15.0...18.2%, gluten 27.5 ...34.0%. Thus, a variety of the German selection Isctar has been identified, which most advantageously combines resistance to three types of phytopathogens, has high productivity indicators and resistance to lodging
EROSION CONTROL RECLAMATION IN THE REPUBLIC OF TATARSTAN
Authors: Khismatullin Marsel , Valiev Ayrat , Hismatullin Mars , Mukhametgaliev Farit , Asadullin Nail , Ullah Rahim
Published: August 2022

One of the most acute problems of agriculture in the Republic of Tatarstan in modern conditions is the progressive degradation of soil cover. Every year the scale of water erosion increases, causing huge damage not only to agriculture, but also to large and small rivers of the region. The territory of the republic is characterized by a large dissection, which serves as the basis of soil erosion. The research was carried out to analyze the impact of soil erosion on the efficiency of agricultural production and the development of science-based measures to combat soil erosion in agriculture of the Republic of Tatarstan. In general, in the subject of the Federation it is necessary to carry out erosion control works on the area of more than 2 million hectares of agricultural land. Every year spring melt water and storm water runoff on average washes away up to 22 tons of fertile soil from one hectare of arable land, which leads to an annual loss of up to 700 thousand tons of humus in the scale of the Republic of Tatarstan. This is comparable to the introduction of 10 million tons of organic fertilizers. Complex of anti-erosion measures depending on the relief and objective conditions of terrain includes organizational-economic, agromeliorative, forest-meliorative and hydromeliorative works, which ensure effective regulation of storm and melt water runoff, increase moisture reserve in soil cover and reduce washout of fertile soil layer, prevent new and expansion and spread of existing erosion centers and thereby contribute to improvement of fertility of agricultural lands. Thus, in the course of scientific research it is established that on average in the Republic of Tatarstan one set of anti-erosion measures protects up to 120 hectares of land from further development of erosion processes. The cost of the complex of anti-erosion measures, including anti-erosion pond - 2.5 million rubles, the payback period is 2 years.
Effects of Triple-Pass Drum Dryer on Enzyme Activity and Quality of Forage Oats
Authors: Guo Ziwen , Li Chong , Wang Liuqing , Wang Guanghui , Wang Zhiqin , Wang Decheng
Published: August 2022

Highlights

Oats retain better quality under outlet conditions of 100°C to 110°C and 0.169 to 0.172 kg water/kg dry air.

Inactivation of POD maintaining the pectin content increases the oats’ hardness.

The color-changing is alleviated when higher RH and high-temperature drying.

DARE-EM method can evaluate the forage oats’ overall quality.

Abstract. Mechanical drying processing influences the quality changing of the materials. To investigate the differences, the qualities of mechanical dried and naturally dried forage oats were evaluated. The changes in dried oats' enzyme activity, color, texture, and nutritional value were analyzed. A combined analysis of the decision alternative ratia evaluation system (DARE) and entropy weight method (EM) were adopted to evaluate the overall qualities of oats. The results showed that the drum drying process performed better than the natural drying process. Compared with natural drying, oat grass can inactivate enzymes such as CAT and POD quickly during drum drying, shorten the time of browning reaction, and further reduce the loss of color and nutrients. Research showed that the dryer's outlet air temperature and relative humidity severely affected the quality of dried oats. The most suitable conditions were the outlet air temperature of 100°C to 110°C and humidity ratio of 0.169 to 0.172 kg water/kg dry air. Under these conditions, the dried oats’ color change was alleviated, and antioxidant enzymes were inactivated. The retention of the plant cell wall and pigment ensured the quality of oat hay. These results can provide the reference for producing high-quality forages. Keywords: Color, DARE-EM, Enzyme activity, Forage oats, Nutrient content, Triple-pass drum drying.
MANAGMENT STRATEGY OF 2nd and 3rd CLASS FISH AUCTION LOCATIONS IN PATI REGENCY, INDONESIA
Authors: Damayanti Herna Octivia , Saputra Suradi Wijaya , Wijayanto Dian , Mudzakir Abdul Kohar , Rudiyanto Alin Fithor
Published: August 2022

Fisheries management policies are needed to achieve the prosperity of society in Indonesia. The auction process at fisheries in Indonesia does not run optimally; therfore, the impact of the role and function of fish auctions is not yet the best it could be in some areas. This study aimed to formulate a strategy for managing 2nd and 3rd class fish auction places in Pati Regency. The research locations were the Puncel, Banyutowo, Alasdowo, Sambiroto, Margomulyo, and Pecangaan fish auctions in the Pati Regency. The research was conducted from January 2021 to November 2021. The research respondents, namely a sample of critical figures (key persons), were determined by purposive sampling of as many as 15 people. Data was analyszed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process and Expert Choice 11.0 software. The study results prioritize the most critical management strategies, namely fish production with a weight of 0.309 (30.9%), infrastructure with a weight of 0.295 (29.5%), institutions with a weight of 0.206 (20.6%), and human resources with a weight 0.190 (19.0%). The priority of alternative management strategies is as follows: (1) maintaining the existence of businesses run by fishermen, with a weight of 0.172 (17.2%), (2) improving facilities and infrastructure to support fish auction place operations, with a weight of 0.164 (16.4%), and (3) increasing the number of catches landed, with a weight 0.145 (14.5%).
Comparison of a high-power 3.75  µm BaGa4Se7 OPO based on a plane-parallel resonator and an unstable resonator with a Gaussian reflectivity mirror
Authors: Liu Gaoyou , Zhang Zenan , Li Chunxiao , Meng Jun , Li Tao , Zhao Zhigang , Cong Zhenhua , Yao Jiyong , Liu Zhaojun
Published: August 2022

Using a homemade Nd:YAG laser with a pulse repetition frequency of 300 Hz as a pump source, we demonstrated a tunable

B
a
G
a

4

S
e

7

(BGSe) optical parametric oscillator (OPO). Wavelength-tuning ranges of 1.42–1.59 µm and 3.21–4.22 µm were realized, and a maximum average output power of 1.03 W at 3746 nm was achieved in a plane-parallel resonator. To date, this is the highest output power at around 4 µm obtained from a BGSe OPO pumped by a 1 µm laser, to our knowledge. Moreover, the BGSe OPO employing a plano–convex Gaussian reflectivity mirror (GRM) as an output coupler (OC) was demonstrated for the first time, to our knowledge. At the same pump power, the corresponding output power and

M
2

value of the idler at 3746 nm were 0.86 W and 10.2 (

x

direction) and 11.6 (

y

direction), respectively. The results indicate that the beam quality factor

M
2

of the idler has an over 30% improvement in comparison with the BGSe OPO based on a conventional flat OC of a plane-parallel resonator. Limited by the beam quality of the pump source, there is little room for improvement in the beam quality of the BGSe OPO with a GRM OC, which could be improved in the future by optimizing the pump beam.
Hybrid diffractive optics design via hardware-in-the-loop methodology for achromatic extended-depth-of-field imaging
Authors: Pinilla Samuel , Miri Rostami Seyyed Reza , Shevkunov Igor , Katkovnik Vladimir , Egiazarian Karen
Published: August 2022

End-to-end optimization of diffractive optical elements (DOEs) profile through a digital differentiable model combined with computational imaging have gained an increasing attention in emerging applications due to the compactness of resultant physical setups. Despite recent works have shown the potential of this methodology to design optics, its performance in physical setups is still limited and affected by manufacturing artefacts of DOE, mismatch between simulated and resultant experimental point spread functions, and calibration errors. Additionally, the computational burden of the digital differentiable model to effectively design the DOE is increasing, thus limiting the size of the DOE that can be designed. To overcome the above mentioned limitations, a co-design of hybrid optics and image reconstruction algorithm is produced following the end-to-end hardware-in-the-loop strategy, using for optimization a convolutional neural network equipped with quantitative and qualitative loss functions. The optics of the imaging system consists on the phase-only spatial light modulator (SLM) as DOE and refractive lens. SLM phase-pattern is optimized by applying the Hardware-in-the-loop technique, which helps to eliminate the mismatch between numerical modelling and physical reality of image formation as light propagation is not numerically modelled but is physically done. Comparison with compound multi-lens optics of a last generation smartphone and a mirrorless commercial cameras show that the proposed system is advanced in all-in-focus sharp imaging for a depth range 0.4-1.9 m.
Simulation and compensation of thermal lensing in optical systems
Authors: Rall Phillip Lino , Förster Daniel , Graf Thomas , Pflaum Christoph
Published: August 2022

High-power optical systems are used in a number of industrial applications. One difficulty in designing such systems is that the beam itself is a significant source of heat, which changes the optical properties of the system. To reduce this effect, we propose a new thermal lensing compensation technique based on a detailed analysis of the optical properties of the high-power optical system. To this end, we have developed a new ray tracing simulation technique that accurately models optical propagation through inhomogeneous, anisotropic, and deformed media. This model enables the performance of systems in physically realistic situations to be evaluated efficiently. Experimental comparisons were conducted to validate the simulation. We found excellent agreement between the simulation and the measured data. We have validated the simulation technique for a single lens setup and a complex optical scanner system.
Transparent organic photodiodes for high-detectivity CMOS image sensors
Authors: Park Sungjun , Lim Younhee , Heo Chul-Joon , Yun Sungyoung , Leem Dong-Seok , Kim Sunghan , Choi Byoungki , Park Kyung-Bae
Published: August 2022

The demand for high-definition complementary metal-oxide–semiconductor
(CMOS) image sensors has increased considerably over the past few
years in industry as well as in academia. Here we propose transparent
green-sensitive organic photodetectors (TG-OPDs) with both
dark-current-based high detectivity (over

10

14

c
m

H
z

1

/

2

W

−
1

at a wavelength of 550 nm under 3 V)
and high responsivity (

0.34

A

W

−
1

under 3 V) for organic–silicon hybrid
CMOS image sensors. A

b
a
t
h
o
c
u
p
r
o
i
n
e

:

C

60

electron-transporting layer provided
the fabricated TG-OPDs with a minimal junction resistivity, smooth
morphology, and desirable energy level modulation, resulting in
exceptional light sensitivity, a low dark current (below

10

−
11

A

c
m

−
2

), and a high rectification ratio
spanning 10 orders of magnitude. The TG-OPDs had high-temperature
endurance (up to 150°C for 2 h) and operational stability under
intense heat (above 85°C) for 50 d. We expect this performance to
enable the industrialization of these TG-OPDs for optoelectronic
sensor applications, such as photoplethysmography, fingerprint
recognition, proximity sensing, and imaging.
Clinical criteria for Mucosal Leishmaniasis diagnosis in rural South America: A systematic literature review
Authors: Bezemer Jacob M. , Meesters Kevin , Naveda Cristhian L. , Machado Paulo R. L. , Calvopiña Manuel , Leeflang Mariska M. G. , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , de Vries Henry J. C.
Published: August 2022

Background

Mucosal Leishmaniasis (ML), a neglected tropical disease caused by Leishmania parasites, impairs the quality of life of under-resourced populations in South America. If not treated promptly, this disease progresses to facial deformities and death. The low sensitivity of microscopy results and the unavailability of other accurate tests hamper the diagnosis. As clinical criteria are readily available in any setting, these may be combined in a syndromic algorithm, which in turn can be used as a diagnostic tool. We explore potential clinical criteria for a syndromic diagnostic algorithm for ML in rural healthcare settings in South America.

Methodology/Principal findings

The protocol for this systematic review was pre-registered in PROSPERO with the number: CRD42017074148. In patients with ML, described in case series identified through a systematic retrieval process, we explored the cumulative ML detection rates of clinical criteria. Participants: all patients with active mucosal disease from an endemic area in South America. Any original, non-treatment study was eligible, and case reports were excluded. PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science, SCIELO, and LILACS databases were searched without restrictions. The risk of bias was assessed with the JBI checklist for case series. We included 10 full texts describing 192 ML patients. Male gender had the highest detection rate (88%), followed by ulcer of the nasal mucosa (77%), age >15 (69%), and symptom duration >4 months (63%).

Significance

Within this selection of patients, we found that the male gender, ulcer of the nasal mucosa, age >15, and symptom duration >4 months lead to the highest detection rates. However, higher detection comes -naturally- with a higher rate of false positives as well. As we only included ML patients, this could not be verified. Therefore, the criteria that we found to be most promising should be validated in a well-designed prospective study.
BlotIt—Optimal alignment of Western blot and qPCR experiments
Authors: Kemmer Svenja , Bang Severin , Rosenblatt Marcus , Timmer Jens , Kaschek Daniel
Published: August 2022

Biological systems are frequently analyzed by means of mechanistic mathematical models. In order to infer model parameters and provide a useful model that can be employed for systems understanding and hypothesis testing, the model is often calibrated on quantitative, time-resolved data. To do so, it is typically important to compare experimental measurements over broad time ranges and various experimental conditions, e.g. perturbations of the biological system. However, most of the established experimental techniques such as Western blot, or quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction only provide measurements on a relative scale, since different sample volumes, experimental adjustments or varying development times of a gel lead to systematic shifts in the data. In turn, the number of measurements corresponding to the same scale enabling comparability is limited. Here, we present a new flexible method to align measurement data that obeys different scaling factors and compare it to existing normalization approaches. We propose an alignment model to estimate these scaling factors and provide the possibility to adapt this model depending on the measurement technique of interest. In addition, an error model can be specified to adequately weight the different data points and obtain scaling-model based confidence intervals of the finally scaled data points. Our approach is applicable to all sorts of relative measurements and does not need a particular experimental condition that has been measured over all available scales. An implementation of the method is provided with the R package blotIt including refined ways of visualization.