bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TECHNOLOGICAL COMPONENT OF ECONOMIC AND NATIONAL SECURITY OF THE STATE IN THE CONDITIONS OF NEW (DIGITAL) INDUSTRIALIZATION
Authors: Baynev V. , Gorayeva. T.
Published: January 2023

In the article, on the basis of a new resource-useful approach to the assessment
of socio-economic processes, the problems of ensuring and increasing the competitiveness and security of economic systems are considered, and the role of the technological factor in overcoming them is revealed. The methodology and methods of quantitative and qualitative determination of the level of manufacturability of economic systems are characterized; on their basis, the dynamics of technical and technological development of the national economy of Belarus and China is analyzed. The key factors, conditions, principles of ensuring (improving) the technological, and hence the economic and national security of the state in the modern conditions of new (digital) industrialization are determined, recommendations for achieving this goal are substantiated.
Evaluation of screening parameters and machine learning models for the prediction of neonatal sepsis: A systematic review
Authors: Ezeobi Dennis Peace , Musiimenta Angella , Wasswa William , Kyoyagala Stella
Published: January 2023

About 2.9 million neonates die every year worldwide, and most of these deaths occur in low-resource settings. Neonatal sepsis occurs when there is a bacterial invasion in the bloodstream; the immune system begins a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) damaging to the body and can quickly advance to severe sepsis, multi-organ failure, and finally, death. Sepsis in neonates can progress more rapidly than in adults; therefore, a timely diagnosis is critical. The standard gold test for diagnosing neonatal sepsis is blood culture, which takes at least 72 hours. Hence, identifying key predictor variables and models that work best can help reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality. The matching articles were identified by searching the PubMed, IEEE, and Cochrane bibliography databases. For the inclusion of articles, the abstract and titles were first screened based on some predetermined criteria and then, the full-text articles were screened. Thirty-one studies met the full inclusion criteria. The duration of ROM was found to be more significant than other maternal risk factors. Heart rate and heart rate variability were found to be more significant than other neonatal clinical signs. C reactive protein and I/T ratio were found to be more significant than other laboratory tests. The main limitation is the variation in the performance measures used in the studies, which made it difficult to perform a quantitative assessment. A combination of predictor variables has been shown to strengthen neonatal sepsis prediction, as shown by some of the reviewed studies. Predictive algorithms that combine multiple variables are urgently needed to improve models for early detection, prognosis, and treatment of neonatal sepsis.
A Clustering-Based Surrogate-Assisted Evolutionary Algorithm (CSMOEA) for Expensive Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Wang Wenxin , dong huachao , Wang Peng , Shen Jiangtao
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we present a novel surrogate-assisted evolutionary algorithm CSMOEA for multi-objective optimization problems (MOPs) with computationally expensive objectives. Considering most surrogate-assisted evolutionary algorithms do not make full use of the population information, which only use population information in the objective space or design space independently for tackling expensive MOPs, we propose a new strategy to comprehensive utilization of population information of objective and design space. The proposed algorithm adopts an adaptive clustering strategy to divide the current population into ‘good’ and ‘bad’ groups, and the clustering centers in the design space are obtained respectively. Then, a bi-level sampling strategy is proposed to select the best samples in the design space and objective space, where new samples are screened out according to their distance to the clustering centers and approximated objective values of radial basis functions. After the comparison with five state-of-the-art algorithms on 21 widely-used benchmark problems, CSMOEA shows high efficiency and good balance between convergence and diversity. Finally, CSMOEA is applied on the shape optimization of blend-wing-body underwater glider with 14 decision variables and two objectives, and the results show its effectiveness on the engineering problem.
Prolonged usage of fosaprepitant for prevention of delayed CINV in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy
Authors: Gao# Ai , Guan# Shasha , Sun Yinjuan , Wang Lingling , Meng Fanlu , Liu Xia , Gu Liyan , Li Guo , Zhong Diansheng , Zhang Linlin
Published: January 2023

Background: Even though chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) can be well controlled in the acute phase, the incidence of delayedCINV remains high. In this study, we intend to investigate whether prolonged use of NK-1 receptor antagonist (RA) in addition to 5-HT3 RA and dexamethasone (DEX) was more effective in preventing delayed CINV.
Methods: This study was designed to compare the efficacy and safetyof fosaprepitant 150 mg given on days 1,3 (prolonged group) versus on day 1 (regular group) in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC). All patients also treated withpalonosetron on day 1 and DEX on days 1-3. The primary endpoint was the incidence of delayed nausea and vomiting. The second endpoint was related AEs. All the above endpoints were defined according to CTCAE 5.0.
Results: Seventy-seven patients were randomly assigned to prolonged group and seventy-nine to regular group. Prolonged group demonstrated superiority in controlling delayed CINV to regular group, with statistically significant lower incidence of nausea (6.17% vs 12.66%, P=0.0056), and slightly lower incidence of grade 1 vomiting (1.62% vs 3.80%, P=0.0953) in the delayed phase. In addition, prolonged use of fosaprepitant was safe. No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding constipation, diarrhea, hiccough, fatigue, palpitation and headache in delayed phase.
Conclusions: Prolonged use of fosaprepitant can effectively and safely prevent delayed CINV in patients receiving HEC.
Machine Learning Approach to Differentiate Excitation Failure in Synchronous Generators from Power Swing
Authors: Hemavathi R. , Geethanjali M.
Published: January 2023

Loss of Excitation (LOE) is the most considerable fault in Synchronous generators since it affects both the generators and power network. The traditional protection method for LOE is based on impedance trajectory of the machine with negative offset mho relay. Meanwhile the traditional method experiences malfunctions and speed dip in LOE detection. This paper presents machine learning approach to detect LOE fault as well as classification logic to discriminate LOE fault from power swing conditions due to Line fault. This paper utilizes Hotelling’s-T2 statistical method to calculate Hotelling’s-T2 based Fault Indices (HT2 -FI) for fault detection and Support Vector Machine (SVM) for classification. The time series data of electrical quantities such as Terminal voltage and Reactive Power of the generator are extracted from simulated Single Machine Infinite Bus test system and used as input data. This data is involved in calculation of HT2 –FI and in development of classification logic. The proposed method is simulated and verified for complete, partial LOE conditions and power swing conditions. Simulation outcomes depict the remarkable signs of the proposed method in LOE identification from power swing. Comparative assessment also reports that the method is capable of saving time in detecting LOE.
Intervention of pharmacist included in multidisciplinary team to reduce adverse drug event: a systematic review
Authors: ZAIJ Sarah , MAIA Kelly PEREIRA , LEGUELINEL-BLACHE Géraldine , ROUX-MARSON Clarisse , KINOWSKI Jean Marie , RICHARD Hélène
Published: January 2023

Background

Preventable harm in healthcare is a growing public health challenge. In addition to the economic costs of safety failures, adverse drug events (ADE) may lead to complication or even death. Multidisciplinary care team involving a pharmacist appears to be an adequate response to prevention of adverse drug event. This systematic review aims to identify and describe multidisciplinary planned team-based care involving at least one pharmacist to limit or prevent adverse drug events in the adult patients.

Methods

To determine the type of interprofessional collaboration to prevent adverse drug event in which a pharmacist was involved, we conducted a systematic review of the literature of randomized controlled trials. Two independent reviewers screened trials in three databases: Medline, Web of Science, ScienceDirect. Prospective studies of at least three different health professionals’ interventions, one of whom was a pharmacist in the last five years were included. Two reviewers performed data extraction and quality appraisal independently. We used TIDieR checklist to appraise articles quality.

Results

In total 803 citations were retrieved, 34 were analysed and 16 full-text articles were reviewed. Only 3 studies published an implementation evaluation. More than half of the interventions (62%) targeted elderly patients including 6 whom lived in nursing homes. Studies outcomes were heterogeneous, and we did not perform a statistical analysis of the impact of these interventions. Most teams are composed of a physician/pharmacist/nurse trio (94%; 100%; 88%). Half of the teams were composed of the primary care physician. Other professionals were included such as physical therapists (25%), social worker (19%), occupational therapists (12%), and community health educator (6%). Multidisciplinary medication review was the most common intervention and was generally structured in four steps: data collection and baseline assessment, appraisal report by health professionals, a multidisciplinary medication review meeting and a patient follow-up.

Conclusions

The most common multidisciplinary intervention to prevent ADE in the adult population is the multidisciplinary drug review meeting at least the physician/pharmacist/nurse trio. Interventions target mostly elderly people in nursing homes, although complex chronic patients could benefit from this type of assessment.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration: CRD42022334685
CORO2A is a pan-cancer prognostic biomarker and correlates with immune infiltration
Authors: Xie Mingjie , Wang Peng , Zhu Donghui , Wang Xingchao , Ding Xiaoling , Chen Erlin
Published: January 2023

Background.Coronin 2A (CORO2A) is a member of the coronin family and reportedly functions as an oncogene in certain malignancies, although its correlation with prognosis and immune infiltration in different cancers remains unclear.
Methods.Data were collected from the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC), Human Protein Atlas (HPA), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), Tumor-Immune System Interactions (TISIDB) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) databases. The differential expression of CORO2A, survival, clinical parameters, tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), mismatch repair (MMR) genes, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), tumor microenvironment (TME), immune-related genes (IRGs), immune infiltration, pathways and functions were analyzed using the R language software.
Results.CORO2A was overexpressed in various malignancies, and correlated with clinical parameters, overall survival, disease-specific survival and progression-free survival in certain cancers. Furthermore, CORO2A was significantly correlated to the TMB, MSI, MMR genes, DNMTs, immune and stromal scores, IRGs and immune infiltration. GSEA further showed that CORO2A was associated with various immune-related pathways and functions in different cancer types.
Conclusion.CORO2A is a promising prognostic and immunological marker for human cancers.
Characteristics of suicidal emergency room patients before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan
Authors: Otani Kyohei , Yoshikawa Ryohei , Naito Atsumi , Fukushima Haruko , Matsuishi Kunitaka
Published: January 2023

Background: Owing to the stress caused by the behavioral restrictions and lifestyle changes during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, suicide rates have increased in Japan, especially among young people. This study identified the differences in the characteristics of patients hospitalized for suicide attempts in the Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital’s emergency room, requiring inpatient care before and during the pandemic over two years.
Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis. Data were collected from 201 patients’ medical records. Patient interviews were conducted bedside or in an interview room in the emergency ward. Data collected from the electronic medical records included sex, age, COVID-19 infection status, admission to a ward with physical complications, psychiatric liaison team intervention, presence or absence of a previous department of psychiatry visit and diagnosis, prescription history of antipsychotic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic or sleeping medication, presence of physical complications, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score to compare the severity of comorbidities. A descriptive survey was conducted to examine changes in the pattern of suicide attempts during the COVID-19 outbreak. Two-sample independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and Fisher’s exact test were used for data analysis.
Results: No significant differences were found in the number of patients hospitalized for suicide attempts, average age, or sex ratio between the pre- and post-pandemic periods. Acute drug intoxication and overmedication in patients increased significantly during the pandemic. The self-inflicted means of injury with high fatality rates were non-significantly different in the two periods. The rate of physical complications significantly increased during the pandemic, while the proportion of unemployed individuals significantly decreased.
Conclusion: Despite studies predicting an increase in suicides based on past statistics of young people and of women, no significant changes were observed. This may have been owing to the effect of suicide prevention measures and mental health measures implemented by the Japanese government after an increase in suicides and after past natural disasters as well as infectious disease pandemics such as the H1N1 influenza.
DMA2022-Topological Design of a Nanosatellite Structure with Optimal Frequency Responses Filled by Non-Uniform Lattices
Authors: Wang Cunyi , Zhang Bin , Huang Songhua , Dou Weiyuan , Xin Shengzhen , Yan Jiayong
Published: January 2023

Traditional structural forms are difficult to meet the lightweight requirements of subsequent spacecraft for load-bearing structures. In the aerospace industry, filling structure with lattices is a popular approach to reduce the weight of a spacecraft. However, this design strategy has deficiencies in the spatial distribution of lattice cells as well as its affection on the mechanical properties. In this study, a two-step topology optimization technique is proposed to solve the spatial distribution problem of nanosatellite. Firstly, an entire nanosatellite box composed of panels which filled with uniform lattices is sent to the vibration test to obtain the frequency data. Then, a finite element (FE) model of the nanosatellite structure which contains the same uniform lattices is built and validated with the obtained frequency data above. For the subsequent calculation of topology optimization. An equivalent model of the verified FE model is established by replacing the lattice cells in the sandwich layer with equivalent fictional elements. Subsequently, a topology optimization problem under the mass constraints is formulated for maximize the nature frequency, and a new light weighted nanosatellite which filled with non-uniform lattices is established by applying the density mapping method and the previous topology configuration result. By separating the design problem of nanosatellite into two steps, the proposed optimization design method achieves the maximum frequency design under the weight constraint. Furthermore, the frequency is also guaranteed to be around the nature frequency. The results reveal that the mass of the new structure with non-uniform lattices is reduced by 50.32% and the frequency is increased by 1.19%. An important technical importance and application value of this proposed technique is that it improves the performance and design efficiency of the load-bearing structures of a nanosatellite, and this method has significant technical significance and application value.
Covariate dependent Markov chains constructed with gradient boost modeling can effectively generate long-term predictions of obesity trends
Authors: Huang Alexander , Huang Samuel Y.
Published: January 2023

Importance: The prevalence of obesity among United States adults has increased from 30.5% in 1999 to 41.9% in 2020. However, despite the recognition of long-term weight gain as an important public health issue, there is a paucity of studies studying the long-term weight gain and building models for long-term projection. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional cohort study using the publicly available National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2017–2020) was conducted in patients who completed the weight questionnaire and had accurate data for both weight at time of survey and weight ten years ago. Multistate gradient boost modeling classifiers were used to generate covariate dependent transition matrices and Markov chains were utilized for multistate modeling. Results: Of the 6,146 patients that met the inclusion criteria, 3,024 (49%) of patients were male and 3,122 (51%) of patients were female. There were 2,252 (37%) White patients, 1,257 (20%) Hispanic patients, 1,636 (37%) Black patients, and 739 (12%) Asian patients. The average BMI was 30.16 (SD = 7.15), the average weight was 83.67 kilos (SD = 22.04), and the average weight change was a 3.27 kg (SD = 14.97) increase in body weight (Fig. 1). A total of 2,411 (39%) patients lost weight, and 3,735 (61%) patients gained weight (Table 1). We observed that 87 (1%) of patients were underweight (BMI < 18.5), 2,058 (33%) were normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25), 1,376 (22%) were overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30) and 2,625 (43%) were obese (BMI > 30). From analysis of the transitions between normal/underweight, overweight, and obese, we observed that after 10 years, of the patients who were underweight, 65% stayed underweight, 32% became normal weight, 2% became overweight, and 2% became obese. After 10 years, of the patients who were normal weight, 3% became underweight, 78% stayed normal weight, 17% became overweight, and 2% became obese. Of the patients who were overweight, 71% stayed overweight, 0% became underweight, 14% became normal weight, and 15% became obese. Of the patients who were obese, 84% stayed obese, 0% became underweight, 1% became normal weight, and 14% became overweight. Conclusions: United States adults are at risk of transitioning from normal weight to becoming overweight or obese. Covariate dependent Markov chains constructed with gradient boost modeling can effectively generate long-term predictions.
Preparation of biochar derived from waste cotton woven by low-dosage Fe(NO3)3 activation: characterization, pore development and adsorption
Authors: Xu Zhihua , Wang Yongheng , Wu Mingzhen , Chen Weifang
Published: January 2023

Currently, researchers are looking for efficient and sustainable methods to synthesize biochar for the adsorption of pollutants. In this study, biochar with high specific surface area, tunable pore structure, and abundant functional groups were prepared from waste cotton woven (WCW) using low-dosage Fe(NO3)3 activation at 400-900°C. The biochar obtained at 800°C possessed the excellent specific surface area of 1167.37 m2/g with a unique micro-mesoporous structure. XRD analysis showed that the Fe species changed from Fe2O3 to Fe3O4 and then Fe0 with the increase of pyrolysis temperature. TEM images further confirmed the template effect of iron oxides for mesoporous formation. The effect of Fe(NO3)3 on the pyrolysis pathway of waste cotton woven was systematically investigated by TG and XPS analyses to explore the pore development of biochar. The results indicated that Fe(NO3)3 could enhance the dehydration, decarbonylation and dehydroxylation of WCW components, thereby reducing the temperature required for WCW pyrolysis. Moreover, the synergistic effect of Fe and N species improved the development of microporous and mesoporous structure through carbon structure corrosion and reorganization, and volatile release. Additionally, satisfactory adsorption capacity for Eriochrome Black T (456.01 mg/g) of the prepared biochar was obtained at 25°C. This study demonstrated that low-dosage Fe(NO3)3 activation of waste cotton woven could be used as a facile method to prepare promising inexpensive biochar for contaminants removal.
Multi-objective Optimization with Majority Voting Ensemble of Classifiers for Prediction of HIV-1 Protease Cleavage Site
Authors: Palmal Susmita , Saha Sriparna , Tripathy Somanath
Published: January 2023

HIV-1 protease cleavage site prediction of an amino acid sequence of Human Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV- 1) type 1 has been the subject of intense research for decades to increase the AUC value of the prediction without placing much attention to the accuracy metric by many researchers. Knowledge of the substrate specificity of HIV-1 protease has significant application in HIV-1 protease inhibitors development and in studying novel drug targets. Motivated by this, a multi-objective optimization (MOO) based majority voting ensemble framework combining the outputs from multiple classifiers has been proposed in the current paper to increase both the prediction accuracy and AUC values simultaneously. The optimal set of classifiers that are considered for voting purposes at the time of combining the outputs is determined automatically using the search capability of MOO. Comparatively better results have been attained using various benchmark data sets with average accuracy and AUC (area under the ROC curve) values of 0.92 and 0.96, respectively.
Impact of a recognition package as an incentive to strengthen the motivation, performance, and retention of village health teams in Uganda: A study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Agarwal Smisha , Tweheyo Raymond , pandya shivani , Obuya Emmanuel , Kiyomoto Arisa , Mitra Paloma , Schleiff Meike , Nagpal Tanvi , Macis Mario , Rutebemberwa Elizeus
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Uganda’s community health worker (CHW), or village health team (VHT), program faces significant challenges with poor retention and insufficient financial and program investment. Adequate compensation comprising of financial and non-financial components is critical to retaining any workforce, including CHWs. This study evaluates the impact of a recognition-based non-financial incentives package on the motivation, performance, and retention of VHTs, as well as on the utilization of health services by the community. The incentives package and intervention were developed in collaboration with the District-level leadership and awards VHTs who have met predetermined performance thresholds with a certificate and a government branded jacket in a public ceremony.
Methods: A two-armed cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT), conducted at the parish-level in Uganda’s Masindi District, will evaluate the effects of the 12-month intervention. The cluster-RCT will use a mixed-methods approach, which includes a baseline/endline VHT survey to assess impact of intervention on key outcomes, with a sample of 304 VHTs per study arm; VHT performance data will be validated using monthly phone surveys tracking key performance indicators and through abstraction of VHT-submitted health facility data; VHT retention will be tracked through a VHT listing activity; and focus group discussions will be conducted with VHTs and community members to understand how intervention was received. Data collection activities will be administered in local languages. A linear regression analysis (adjusting for cluster-effect) and a difference-in-differences analysis will be utilized to assess impact of the intervention.
Discussion: This study utilized a cluster-RCT design to assess the impact of a recognition-based incentives intervention on the motivation, performance, and retention of VHTs in Uganda’s Masindi District. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study will provide insights on the effectiveness and limitations of the intervention, VHT perspectives on perceived value, and critical insights on how non-financial incentives might support the strengthening of the community health workforce.
Trial Registration: This trial was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration Number: NCT05176106) on January 4, 2022.
High prevalence of lack of knowledge and unhealthy lifestyle practices among Saudi population toward Premature Coronary Artery Disease and its risk factors
Authors: Al-khlaiwi Thamir , Alshammari Hessah , Habib Syed Shahid , Alobaid Razan , Alrumaih Lama , Almojel Alaa , Sendi Faye , Almuqbil Shahad , Alkhodair Majdoly
Published: January 2023

Objective
Literature regarding coronary artery disease and awareness of its risk factors is available in Saudi Arabia. However, it is lacking with respect to premature coronary artery disease (PCAD). Therefore, it is of high value to evaluate the lack of knowledge of this underrepresented critical issue and to devise a well-constructed strategy for PCAD. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of PCAD and its risk factors in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was performed in the Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between July 01, 2022, and October 25, 2022. A validated proforma was sent to the Saudi population. The sample size was 1046 participants.
Results
Showed that 46.1% (n = 484) of participants believe that coronary artery disease can occur in people who are under the age of 45, whereas 18.6% (n = 196) do not believe, and 34.8% (n = 366) do not know. There was a highly statistically significant association present between gender and the belief that coronary artery disease can affect people who are under the age of 45, with a p-value < 0.001, with 355 (73.3%) females believing that coronary artery disease can affect people below the age of 45, compared to 129 (26.7%) males. It also showed a highly statistically significant relationship between educational status and the belief that coronary artery disease can affect people who are under the age of 45 (bachelor's degree, 392 participants, representing 81.1% with a p-value of < 0.001). Furthermore, employed participants revealed a notable positive association, with a p-value of 0.049. In addition, health specialty participants appeared to have a positive association, with a p-value less than < 0.001. In addition, it showed that 62.3% (n = 655) are not aware of their lipid profile, 49.1% (n = 516) prefer using vehicles to get to nearby places, 70.1% (n = 737) do not undergo regular medical checkups, 36.3% (n = 382) take medications without consultations, 55.9% (n = 588) do not exercise weekly, E-cigarette smokers 69.5% (n = 112), and astonishingly 77.5% (n = 810) consume fast food weekly.
Conclusions
Saudi Arabia has an evident lack of public knowledge and poor lifestyle practices regarding premature coronary artery disease (PCAD), which demonstrates the need for health authorities to take a more targeted and attentive approach toward PCAD awareness. In addition, extensive media involvement is required to highlight the severity and the risk factors of PCAD to the population.
Divergence in functional traits in seven species of neotropical palms of different forest strata
Authors: Avalos Gerardo , Cambronero Milena , Alvarez-Vergnani Carolina
Published: January 2023

Functional traits are morphological and physiological characteristics that determine growth, reproduction, and survival strategies. The leaf economics spectrum proposes two opposing life history strategies: species with an "acquisitive" strategy grow fast and exploit high-resource environments, while species with a "conservative" strategy emphasize survival and slow growth under low resource conditions. We analyzed interspecific variation in nine functional traits related to biomass allocation and tissue quality in seven Neotropical palm species from three forest strata (understory, subcanopy, and canopy). We expected that the level of resources of a stratum that a species typically exploits would determine the dominance of either the exploitative or conservative strategy, as well as the similarity in functional traits between species. If this is correct, then canopy and subcanopy species will show an acquisitive strategy emphasizing traits targeting a larger size, whereas understory species will show a conservative strategy with traits promoting efficient biomass allocation. Two principal components (57.22% of the variation) separated palm species into: a) canopy and subcanopy species whose traits were congruent with the acquisitive strategy and that emphasized large size (i.e., height, carbon content, and leaf area), and b) understory species whose traits were associated with efficient biomass allocation (i.e., dmf and tissue density). Since palms are one of the most abundant life forms in tropical forests, exploring the variation in functional traits within this group could significantly improve our understanding of plant adaptation to environmental gradients.
Application of Fibula/Iliac Flap Surgical Techniques to Mandibular Defects
Authors: Gao Ning , Fu Kun , Cai Jinghua , He Wei
Published: January 2023

This study group consists of a total of 61 patients who underwent fibula flap and iliac flap surgeries to repair mandibular defects. The EORTC-QLQ-H&N and OHIP-14 have been adopted to investigate and compare the difference of patients’ QOL at 6 and 24 months after surgery. SPSS 20.0 statistical software was used to conduct statistical analysis on the base data of the two groups of patients. Independent sample t test was conducted for EORTC-QLQ-H&N and OHIP-14 scores at two time points in each group.The 61 cases of free flap all survived, with statistically significant difference in the location of the primary tumor between the two groups. The EORTC-QLQ-H&N showed that speech, diet, social contact, and teeth scored higher at 6 months after surgery, but decreased significantly at 24 months after surgery. The OHIP-14 showed that the functional limitation reduced significantly at 24 months after surgery, with statistical significance (p < 0.05) between the groups of iliac flap (19.16 ± 5.33) and fibula flap (33.77 ± 7.71). It is therefore recommended that patients with mandibular defects receive surgery utilizing the iliac flap, while those suffering from a larger range of defects or lesions involving the condyle and chin should receive corrective surgery utilizing the fibular flap.
Scheduling optimization of wind-thermal interconnected low-carbon power system integrated with hydrogen storage
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Ma Xiaoran , Zhao Xingyu , Wang Weijun
Published: January 2023

To improve the consumption of wind energy and reduce carbon emission, this paper proposes a wind-thermal interconnected low-carbon power system integrated with hydrogen storage. An energy scheduling optimization model aiming at minimizing the daily operation cost of the system is constructed considering environmental operation cost quantification, and Whale Optimization Algorithm is used to optimize multiple variables. Finally, in simulation example, various scenarios are set considering the application way of hydrogen and the scenarios with and without the carbon capture and storage (CCS) are optimized respectively. The horizontal comparison results show that the system with hydrogen production (S2) and the system with hydrogen fuel cell (S3) have higher economic operation cost than that of wind-thermal interconnected power system only (S1), but the environmental cost is reduced. The wind curtailment rate decreases from 11.0% (S1) to 3.8% (S2 and S3) without CCS, and from 9.0% (S1) to 2.1% (S2 and S3) with CCS. The longitudinal comparison shows that the thermal power output is reduced and the wind power consumption is improved with CCS. The total operating cost increases, but the environmental cost decreases significantly. Configuring hydrogen storage system in the wind-thermal interconnected power system can effectively promote the consumption of wind energy and reduce the system operation cost, however, the utilization of CCS is economic unfriendly at present.
Sex hormone receptor expression in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Sun Ruoyu , Guo Pi , Sun Tao , Yu Hong , Liao Yanwei , Xie Jieqi , Zeng Jiaying , Xie Xiaoyun , Huang Saijun
Published: January 2023

Background
Sex hormones, especially estrogen, which binds to estrogen receptor β (ERβ), play a vital role in the pathogenesis of mental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this study was to analyze the serum levels of hormone receptors, including ERβ, progesterone receptor (PGR) and androgen receptor (AR), and compare these levels between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) children. We also investigated the relationships of ERβ mRNA levels with ASD core symptoms, sleep, and developmental quotients (DQs) from the Gesell Developmental Schedules (GDS) among children with ASD.
Methods
We compared the mRNA levels of ERβ, AR, and PGR between 56 children with ASD and 37 TD children by using quantitative real-time PCR. Then, a correlation analysis was performed to determine the correlations of ERβ mRNA levels with Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CHSQ) scores as well as DQs among ASD children.
Results
We found that serum mRNA levels of ERβ in ASD children were significantly lower than those in the TD group. However, we found no correlations of the ERβ mRNA level with CARS, ABC, and CHSQ scores as well as DQs on each GDS domain among ASD children.
Conclusions
Elevated ERβ mRNA levels in peripheral blood may be related to ASD but this association needs to be validated with a larger sample size.
Comparison of surgical and radio-chemotherapy oncology outcomes for cervical adenocarcinoma FIGO2018 stage Ⅱ B
Authors: Wu Minling , Yin Zhaohong , Chen Biliang , Zhao Weidong , Lin Lihong , Liang Wentong , Wang Li , Sun Linxin , Dai Encheng , Ji Mei , Kang Shan , Hao Min , Wang Wuliang , Wang Shaoguang , Lv Qiubo , Cui Zumei , Chen Chunlin , Liu Ping
Published: January 2023

Objective This study aimed to explore the optimal treatment strategy for International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics 2018 stage ⅡB cervical adenocarcinoma patients. Methods cervical adenocarcinoma patients who underwent radical hysterectomy and radical radio-chemotherapy were screened from the clinical diagnosis and treatment for cervical cancer in China database. The 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared using the overall population study and propensity score matching. Results 68 FIGO2018 stage Ⅱ B cervical adenocarcinoma patients were eligible for inclusion. In the overall population study, there was no statistical difference in 5-year OS between the surgery group (n = 41) and the radical radio-chemotherapy group (n = 27), but their DFS was better than that of the radical radio-chemotherapy group (OS: 85.7%vs.62.8%, P = 0.058; DFS: 83.7%vs.59.2%, P = 0.035), the difference was statistically significant. Cox multivariate analysis showed that patients with FIGO2018 stage Ⅱ B cervical adenocarcinoma had worse 5-year OS (HR = 2.036, 95%CI: 0.451–9.21, P = 0.355) and DFS (HR = 1.296, 95%CI: 0.344–5.030, P = 0.708). After 1:1PSM, there were no significant differences in OS and DFS between the surgery group (n = 16) and the radical radio-chemotherapy group (n = 16)(OS: 79.8%vs.92.3%, P = 0.292; DFS: 85.6%vs.68.8%, P = 0.228). Cox multivariate analysis showed that treatment was not an independent risk factor for worse 5-year OS (HR = 0.346, 95%CI: 0.035–3.441, P = 0.365) or DFS (HR = 0.399, 95%CI: 0.075–2.216, P = 0.282). In terms of recurrence after treatment in patients with FIGO2018 stage Ⅱ B cervical adenocarcinoma, the results were consistent before and after matching, and there was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of recurrence, recurrence time, recurrence site after recurrence. Conclusion For patients with FIGO 2018 stage Ⅱ B cervical adenocarcinoma, radical chemoradiotherapy did not result in better oncology outcome.
Phase II Clinical trial of Sequential Treatment with Systemic Chemotherapy and Intraperitoneal Paclitaxel for Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Peritoneal Carcinomatosis - STOPGAP Trial
Authors: Senthil Maheswari , Dayyani Farshid
Published: January 2023

Background: Studies from Asia indicate that normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (NIPEC) may confer survival benefit in patients with gastric peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). However, data regarding this approach is lacking in western population. The current STOPGAP trial is intended to assess 1-year progression-free survival benefit of sequential systemic chemotherapy and paclitaxel NIPEC in patients with gastric/ gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma PC.
Methods:This is a prospective, single center, single arm, phase II investigator-initiated clinical trial. Patients with histologically proven gastric/GEJ (Siewert 3) adenocarcinoma with positive peritoneal cytology or PC will be eligible to participate after three months of standard of care systemic chemotherapy and with no evidence of visceral metastasis on restaging scans. The primary treatment is iterative paclitaxel NIPEC with systemic paclitaxel and 5-fluorouracil, which will be administered on days1 and 8 and repeated every three weeks for 4 cycles. Patients will undergo diagnostic laparoscopy both before and after NIPEC to assess peritoneal cancer index (PCI). Patients with PCI less than or equal to 10 in whom complete cytoreduction (CRS) is feasible may opt to undergo CRS with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The primary endpoint is 1-year progression free survival and secondary endpoints are overall survival and patient reported quality of life outcomes measured by EuroQol- 5 dimensions-5 level (EuroQol-5D-5L) questionnaire.
Discussion:If the sequential approach of systemic chemotherapy followed by paclitaxel NIPEC proves beneficial, then this approach could be used in larger, muti-institutional randomized clinical trial of gastric PC.
Trial Registration: The trial was registered on 21/02/2021, under clinical trials.gov; Identifier: NCT04762953
Acetylcysteine and budesonide for the treatment of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a clinical observation
Authors: Wang Yanli , Liu Kai , Chen Chuangui , Zhang Chengyun
Published: January 2023

Background To examine the clinical impact of bronchoscope alveolar lavage (BAL) combination with budesonide, ambroxol + budesonide, or acetylcysteine + budesonide in the treatment of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP).
Methods Eighty-two RMPP patients admitted to Pediatrics at The First People's Hospital of Zhengzhou were retrospectively evaluated between August 2016 and August 2019. All patients were administered BAL in addition to intravenous Azithromycin, expectoration, and nebulizer inhalation. The medications added to the BLA separated the patients into the Budesonide group, Ambroxol+budesonide group, and acetylcysteine+budesonide group. Analyzed were the variations in laboratory examination indices, improvement in lung imaging, overall effective rate, and adverse responses in the three groups.
Results The laboratory test indices of patients in all three groups improved significantly relative to pre-treatment levels, and the results were statistically significant. After therapy, there were no significant differences between the three groups in terms of white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and serum ferritin (SF) varied significantly across the three groups (P0.05). In the acetylcysteine + budesonide group, the absorption rate of lung imaging lesions and clinical efficacy were superior to those of the other two groups. There were no significant differences between the three groups in the occurrence of adverse events (P>0.05).
Conclusions BLA-coupled acetylcysteine+ budesonide was superior to the other two groups in enhancing the effectiveness of RMPP in children, which might increase lung opacity absorption and minimize lung inflammation.
Prevalence of Lower Back Pain and its Associations with Lifestyle Behaviors among College Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshehri Mohammed M , Alqhtani Amjad M , Gharawi Shahd H , Sharahily Raghad A , Fathi Wajd A , Alnamy Shahad G , Alothman Shaima A , Alshehri Yasir S. , Alhowimel Ahmed S. , Alqahtani Bader A. , Alenazi Aqeel M.
Published: January 2023

Research question

Lower back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that may affect the daily living of students. Recent psychological research showed a relevant connection between LBP and multidimensional health. However, the association between LBP and lifestyle behavior was not established yet in which improving the knowledge in this area of research may help in establishing preventive strategies and optimizing the quality of life of college students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 1420 college students in Saudi Arabia was conducted and recruited from May 2021 to November 2021. An established online survey was utilized to assess LBP, sleep quality, sedentary duration, health responsibility, physical activity, nutrition, spiritual growth, interpersonal relationships, and stress management.

Results

LBP was prevalent among college students from Saudi Arabia. There were significant differences between students with and without LBP in age, BMI, sex, marital status, pain severity, overall lifestyle behavior, health responsibility, physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and global sleep quality. After controlling for Age, BMI, sex, and marital status, there were significant associations between pain severity and global sleep quality (ß=.2, p < .001), and sedentary duration (ß=.03, p = .01)

Conclusions

The study helped in defining the prevalence of LBP in college students in Saudi Arabia, and evaluating the association between LBP and lifestyle behaviors. Promoting sleep quality and sedentary behavior may help in establishing preventive strategies of LBP for college students.
Moderate-intensity Aerobic Exercise Training as an Adjunct to Trauma-focused Psychotherapy in Traumatized Refugees and Asylum Seekers: Study Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lüder Charina C. , Michael Tanja , Lass-Hennemann Johanna , Schanz Christian G. , Venhorst Andreas , Meyer Tim , Equit Monika
Published: January 2023

Background
Refugees with exposure to multiple traumatic events are at high risk for developing trauma-related mental disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression. Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is an effective treatment for the core symptoms of PTSD, but many studies did not find that it significantly reduces depressive symptoms. Endurance exercise on the other hand was consistently found to be effective in treating symptoms of depression, thereby making it a promising adjunct to NET. Up to date, no studies exist investigating the combination of NET and endurance exercise in a sample of refugees with PTSD and relevant comorbid depressive symptoms.
Methods/ Design
In the proposed Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) we aim to investigate whether a combination of NET and Moderate-intensity Aerobic Exercise Training (MAET) enhances treatment outcome for refugees with PTSD and comorbid depressive symptoms. Therefore, we hypothesized a greater improvement in psychopathology in participants who receive the combined treatment.
According to power calculation assuming a moderate adjuvant effect, 68 refugees and asylum seekers with a confirmed PTSD diagnosis and clinically relevant depressive symptoms will be recruited in the proposed study. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either NET only (NET-group; n = 34) or NET plus MAET (NET+-group; n = 34). All participants will receive ten NET sessions (100 minutes each). Participants in the NET+-group will additionally take part in MAET (running exercises à 45min three times weekly). Primary (PTSD, depression) and secondary (general mental distress, sleep quality, agoraphobia) outcome measures will be assessed before treatment, directly after treatment, and at six-month follow-up. The hypotheses are planned to be tested with multiple 2x3 mixed ANOVA’s.
Discussion
The proposed study will be the first RCT assessing whether NET, which is currently the first-line treatment for PTSD in refugees, can be enhanced by endurance exercise. If the results will be in line with the hypotheses, the psychotherapeutic care of traumatized refugees with PTSD and comorbid depressive symptoms could be improved. Potential challenges include participant recruitment and retention.
Trial registration: The present clinical trial is pre-registered in German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) on 29 July 2020; DRKS ID: DRKS00022145).