bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RTA-Assisted Numerical History-Matching Workflow
Authors: Hamdi Hamidreza , Clarkson Christopher R. , Ghanizadeh Amin
Published: May 2023

Due to strong nonlinearities in the governing diffusivity equation for flow in porous media, numerically assisted rate-transient analysis (RTA) techniques have been suggested for the analysis of multiphase production data from multifractured horizontal wells (MFHWs). However, these methods are based on some limiting assumptions that cannot be generalized for three-phase flow or when relative permeability is unknown. In this study, a new RTA-assisted history-matching technique is proposed to simultaneously match production data and diagnostic plots during the calibration process.

In the proposed method, the objective function is modified to include the derivative of the integral of rate-normalized pressure for the primary phases. As such, in the history-matching process using compositional numerical simulation, the flow regimes are also matched, which can increase the reliability of the calibrated numerical model. This approach is applied to a challenging data set of production data from an MFHW completed in a Canadian shale reservoir hosting a near-critical gas condensate fluid.

The results demonstrate that when the modified objective function is used, the history-matching scheme will reject models that cannot reproduce the flow regimes even if the production data are visually matched. Another benefit of this modified history-matching workflow is that, unlike other numerically assisted RTA techniques, it is not limited to any specific conceptual model or reservoir geometry. Further, interactions between parameters are accounted for during the calibration process. Including the derivative terms in the objective function can ensure a better history-matched model with improved forecast quality. However, comparing the convergence rates of the history-matching with the standard and modified objective functions indicates that adding the derivative terms comes with an additional computational cost requiring more iterations and a slower convergence rate.

In this study, a modified objective function is introduced for the first time to enhance the numerical history-matching process to ensure the resulting calibrated model can also reproduce the observed transient flow regimes. This approach is easy to implement and is not limited to a specific model geometry or any input-output relationship.
Protocol for highly efficient and rapid generation of human pluripotent stem cells (hCiPSCs) by chemical reprogramming
Authors: Deng Hongkui , Liuyang Shijia , wang Guan , Wang Yanglu , He Huanjing , Lyu Yulin , Wang Jinlin
Published: May 2023

We recently established a highly efficient and rapid chemical reprogramming system for generation of human pluripotent stem cells (hCiPSCs) (Liuyang et al., 2023). Here, we describe steps from isolation and culture of somatic cells to the derivation of hCiPSCs cell lines. In this method, human adipose derived stromal cells (hADSCs), and human adult skin fibroblasts (hASFs) are used as starting cells, we detail the preparation of small molecules stock solution and each stage conditional mediums, followed by step-by-step procedures to induction of hCiPSCs from somatic cells.
Estimated Nutrients Intake in Complementary Feeding Methods in Brazilian infants: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Moreira Paula Ruffoni , Silveira Muriele Betencourt , Neves Renata Oliveira , Nunes Leandro Meirelles , Bernardi Juliana Rombaldi
Published: May 2023

Background
Inadequate nutrient intake is a common problem in the introduction of complementary feeding (CF), which can impair healthy infant growth.
Methods
To analyze nutrient intake in infants submitted to three different CF methods, it was conducted a randomized clinical trial comparing complementary feeding methods in mother-infant pairs. The mothers received at 5.5 months of the child an intervention on one of three distinct CF methods: (A) strict Parent-Led Weaning (PLW); (B) strict Baby-Led Introduction to SolidS (BLISS); and (C) a mixed method. The pairs were followed up at nine months, and 12–17 months of age. Food consumption was assessed by a 24-h dietary recall at nine and 12–17 months. Quantile regression was used to estimate the differences between the groups in nutrient intake. The research was approved by the Ethics Committee.
Results
A total of 127 infants were evaluated at nine months and 113 at 12–17 months. Mostly, PLW, BLISS, and mixed CF methods provided similar amounts of macronutrients and micronutrients. At nine months, infants randomized to the Mixed method had higher vitamin B9 intake compared to the other methods (p = 0.049). Infants fed by mixed method consumed significantly fewer carbohydrates (p = 0.033) and less total fiber (p < 0.001) at 12 and 17 months.
Conclusions
Infants following PLW, BLISS, or mixed showed predominantly similar amounts of nutrient intake.
Trial registration:
The trial was registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) with identifier [RBR-229scm U1111-1226-9516], [https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-229scm]. The full data of the first registration was on 24/09/2019.
Effects of remifentanil dose on surgical conditions during endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Jeong JinHyeok , Park ChanWoo , Cho SangYun , Yoon YoungJoon , Lee DoJae
Published: May 2023

Background The combination of propofol and remifentanil results in better surgical field conditions during endoscopic sinus surgery than inhalation anaesthesia. This study compared surgical field conditions between groups receiving low or high concentration of remifentanil.
Methods Fifty-four patients, ASA I or II were used to assign the patients to either the high-concentration remifentanil group (HR), targeted at 8 ng/mL or the low-concentration remifentanil group (LR), target was 4 ng/mL Surgical condition was evaluated using the Boezaart Surgical Field Grading Scale presented by Boezaart.
Discussion When comparing the HR group and the LR group, the surgeon observed a significant difference in surgical conditions. The reason was the significant decrease in cardiac output. This reduction was because of the effect of remifentanil on reducing heart rate rather than stroke volume.
Trial Registration Clinical Trial Registry of the Republic of Korea (KCT0006453)
Effects of individual differences in text exposure on sentence comprehension
Authors: Stoops Anastasia , Montag Jessica
Published: May 2023

Linguistic experience plays a clear role in accounting for variability in sentence comprehension behavior across individuals and across sentence types. We aimed to understand how individual differences in reading experience predict reading behavior. Corpus analyses revealed the frequencies with which our experimental items appeared in written and spoken language. We hypothesized that reading experience should affect sentence comprehension most substantially for sentence types that individuals primarily encounter through written language. Readers with more text exposure were faster and more accurate readers overall, but they read sentence types biased to written language particularly faster than did readers with less text exposure. We see clear effects of text exposure on sentence comprehension in ways that allow explicit links between written and spoken corpus statistics and behavior. We discuss theoretical implications of effects of text exposure for experience-based approaches to sentence processing.
Is Grand Multiparity an independent risk factor for blood transfusion?
Authors: Attali Emmanuel , Gabbai Daniel , Reicher Lee , Baruch Yoav , Lavie Anat , Yogev Yariv , Many Ariel
Published: May 2023

Background The relation between grand multiparity and poor pregnancy outcome, especially post-partum hemorrhage and blood transfusion has not been consistent. Some studies found an association between maternal and neonatal mortality more recent literature is less clear about the risks.Objectives We aimed to determine the association of grand multiparity with the need for post-partum blood transfusion.Study Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a single tertiary university-affiliated medical center between 2011 and 2019. All women were categorized into one of three groups based on the number of previous deliveries: (a) nulliparous (no previous delivery), (b) multiparous (1–4 previous deliveries), (c) grand multiparous (≥ 5 previous deliveries). We compared the demographic, clinical, and pregnancy outcomes of the study groups. The primary outcome was the need for red blood cell transfusion during the index admission.Results Overall, during the study period there were 87,343 deliveries in our center. Among the study population, 36,777 (42.1%) were nulliparous, 49,072 (56.1%) were multipara and 1,494 (1.7%) were grand multiparous. Overall, 1602 women (1.8%) were treated with RBC transfusion. Cesarean delivery, macrosomia, preterm delivery, multiple gestations, antenatal anemia, thrombocytopenia, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), and prolonged second or third stage of labor, were more prevalent among women who were treated with RBC transfusion. After controlling for potential confounders, including maternal age, preterm delivery, IUFD, mode of delivery, and antenatal thrombocytopenia grand multiparity was found to be an independent protective factor for RBC transfusion [OR = 0.2 (0.007–0.56), p-value = 0.002]Conclusion After controlling for cofounders, grand multiparity alone, after controlling for cofounders, is not associated with postpartum blood transfusion.
Predictors of Post-Discharge Mortality Among Children Aged 5-14 Years Admitted to Pediatric Wards at Mnh, Jkci, and Moi: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Meleki Elton Roman , Mongella Stella , Furia Francis Fredrick
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Globally, millions of children and adolescents die every year from treatable and preventable causes. Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for 55% of deaths of children aged 5–14 years in 2017. Despite this high burden, minimal effort has been directed toward reducing mortality among older children and adolescents in comparison to under-fives. Mortality rates of children post-discharge vary between 1–18% in limited-resource countries and is report to exceed in-hospital mortality. In Tanzania, there is limited data regarding post-discharge mortality among children aged 5–14 years. Methods and analysis: This will be a prospective observational cohort study that will be conducted among children aged 5–14 years admitted to pediatric wards at Muhimbili National Hospital, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institue, and Muhimbili Orthopedic Institue in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Data will be collected using a structured questionnaire and will include socio-demographic characteristics, clinical factors, and patients’ outcomes. Post-discharge follow-up will be done at month 1, 2, and 3 after discharge via phone call. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 23. The association of demographic, social economic, and clinical factors with the outcome of all causes, 3 months post-discharge mortality will be determined by cox regression, and survival rates will be displayed through Kaplan-Meier curves. Discussion: This study will determine post-discharge mortality among children aged 5–14 years and it’s predictors in Tanzania. This information is expected to provide baseline data that will be useful for raising awareness of clinicians on how to prioritize and plan a proper follow-up of children following hospital discharge. These data may also be used to guide policy development to address and reduce the high burden of older children and adolescent mortality and may be used for future studies including those aiming to develop prediction models for post-discharge mortality among older children and adolescents.
Functional genomics dissection of the nodulation autoregulation pathway (AON) in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Gresshoff Peter M. , Su Huanan , Hastwell April , Zhang Mengbai , Grundy Estelle B. , Chu Xitong , Ferguson Brett J.
Published: May 2023

The combination of mutation-based genetics and functional genomics allowed a detailed dissection of the nodulation-induction and Autoregulation of Nodulation (AON) pathways of soybean. Applicable to all legumes, nodulation was induced by Rhizobium/Bradyrhizobium produced lipopolysaccharides (Nod factors), perceived by Nod factor receptors (NFR1/NFR5 dimers), leading to cortical and pericycle cell divisions. These induce the production of CLE (Clavata3-like) peptides, that travel in the xylem to the shoot, where they are perceived by a receptor complex including a LRR receptor kinase, encoded by GmNARK, LjHAR1, MtSUNN and closely related receptors in other legumes like Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean), Pisum sativum (pea) and Glycine soja. This activated receptor complex negatively regulates by phosphorylation the constitutive synthesis of miR2111 in the shoot, that normally is translocated via the phloem to the entire plant body, initiating suppression of root-expressed receptor kinase ‘Too Much Love (TML)’, which in turn suppresses the nodule initiation cascade. Nodulation thus is permitted during a developmental window between the induction and progress of the nodulation/cell division/infection cascade during the first few days after inoculation and the functional ’readiness’ of the AON cascade, delayed by root-shoot-root loop. Loss-of-function mutations in GmNARK and TML result in excessive nodulation (supernodulation/hypernodulation/supernummary nodulation) as well as localised tolerance to externally applied nitrate. Recent analyses indicate interaction with gibberellin signalling, plant immunity as well as lateral root formation. Further details of the parallel functions of key points in this regulatory loop remain to be elucidated.
Comprehensive analysis of MICALL2 reveals its potential roles in EGFR stabilization and ovarian cancer cell invasion
Authors: Xia Tianxiang , Ye Fengwen , Yang Yixing , Min Pengxiang , Qi Chengxiang , Wang Qianwen , Zhao Weizhen , Wang Yueyuan , Zhang Yujie , Du Jun
Published: May 2023

Molecules interacting with CasL (MICALs) are critical mediators of cell motility that act by cytoskeleton rearrangement. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of cancer cell invasion remain elusive. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of one member of MICALs, i.e., MICAL-like 2 (MICALL2), in the invasion and function of ovarian cancer cells. Bioinformatics analysis showed that MICALL2 expression was significantly higher in tissues of advanced-stage ovarian cancer and associated with poor overall survival of patients. MICALL2 was strongly correlated with the infiltration of multiple types of immune cells and T-cell exhaustion markers. Moreover, enrichment analyses showed that MICALL2 was involved in the tumor-related matrix degradation pathway. Mechanistically, matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) was identified as the target gene of MICALL2 for the regulation of invadopodium formation and ovarian cancer cell invasion. In addition, epidermal growth factor receptor/protein kinase B/mechanistic target of rapamycin (EGFR/AKT/mTOR) signaling was identified as the downstream pathway of MICALL2 in the regulation of MMP9 expression. Furthermore, MICALL2 silencing promoted EGFR degradation; however, this effect was abrogated by treatment with autophagy inhibitors acadesine and chloroquine diphosphate. Silencing of MICALL2 resulted in a suppressive activity of Rac family small GTPase 1 (Rac1), while suppressing Rac1 activation attenuated the pro-EGFR, pro-MMP9, and pro-invasive effects induced by the overexpression of MICALL2. Collectively, our results indicated that MICALL2 participated in the process of immune infiltration and invasion by ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, MICALL2 prevented EGFR degradation in a Rac1-dependent manner, consequently leading to EGFR/AKT/mTOR/MMP9 signaling activation and invadopodia-mediated matrix degradation.
Safety and feasibility of neoadjuvant immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy for resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Delong , Xu Min , Xing Dongyang , Ma Yegang , Shi Xiang
Published: May 2023

Background
The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Methods
This study retrospectively analyzed 63 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy in our hospital from January 2022 to January 2023. The characteristics of neoadjuvant therapy and surgery were analyzed to determine the safety and feasibility of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Results
A total of 63 patients were included in the study. The most commonly used regimens of immunotherapy were camrelizumab (n = 35,55.56%), tislelizumab (n = 12,19.05%), pembrolizumab (n = 8,12.70%),and sintilimab (n = 8, 12.70%). A total of 12 patients (19.0%) experienced different grades of adverse events during neoadjuvant therapy. Grade 3 adverse events included Neutropenia (n = 2, 3.2%). Sixty of 63 patients completed minimally invasive surgical treatment, and only 3 patients were converted to thoracotomy. The PCR rate in this study was 11.1%. The downstaging of primary tumors is 57.1% and the reduction in primary tumor size is 84.1%. According to Clavien-Dindo, 14 patients (22.2%) suffered grade ≤ 3 perioperative complications and only 2 patients (3.2%) suffered grade > 3 perioperative complications. The most common complications were pneumonia and arrhythmia, which accounted for 14.3% and 6.3% respectively.
Conclusions
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy is safe and effective for resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Complications after neoadjuvant therapy and perioperative rates were also acceptable.
Contribution of Groundwater quality to the Industrialization of Textile Sector in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md. Mahabub , Takafuji Makoto , Shahruzzaman Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Water is one of the most important media which profoundly influences various processes such as pre-treatment, dyeing, printing and finishing process of textile materials. Any type of contamination or impurity in water used therefore requires maximum level of purification leading to the higher cost of finished products. Groundwater quality from various industrial zones in Bangladesh was assessed to determine whether the resource was of a suitable quality for industrial use. Parameters determining the water quality such as hardness, pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), alkalinity, chloride content, dissolved iron, and conductivity of collected groundwater were measured. It was found that the quality of groundwater from Gazipur and Mymensingh zones is significantly remarkable than other studied zones, while the groundwater of other zones are also suitable for the use of textile processing after mild treatment. This study based on the water quality can have also a great impact to find and set up cost effective and efficient textile and related industries in Bangladesh.
Immunohistological analysis of B7-H4, IDO1, and PD-L1 expression and tumor immune microenvironment based on triple-negative breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Sanuki Fumiaki , Mikami Yuka , Nishimura Hirotake , Fujita Yoshinori , Monobe Yasumasa , Nomura Tsunehisa , Taira Naruto , MORIYA TAKUYA
Published: May 2023

Background: B7-H4 and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1) are factors involved in the inhibition of antitumor activity and are new therapeutic targets for immune checkpoint therapy. However, the category of patients wherein these factors are highly expressed and how they are related to each other and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) are not yet fully clear.
Methods: Immunostaining for PD-L1, B7-H4, and IDO1 was performed on whole-slide sections of 119 cases of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC subtypes were also determined by immunohistochemistry analysis of cytokeratin 5/6 and androgen receptor (AR) expression. The tumor immune microenvironment was evaluated based on stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs) (%), pattern classification of TILs, tumor stromal ratio, and tertiary lymphoid structure. Immunostaining for CD8 and FOXP3 was also performed.
Results: B7-H4 expression was significantly high in cases with a combined positive score cutoff of 5 for PD-L1 (clone 28-8) (p = 0.021). The H-scores of AR and B7-H4 were inversely correlated (ρ = -0.509, p < 0.001). AR expression was high in cases with IDO1 < 1% (p = 0.046), while B7H4 and IDO1 expression levels were inversely correlated in cases with AR <10% (ρ = -0.354, p < 0.001).
Conclusions: In the population of TNBC, B7-H4 and PD-L1 expression were exclusively related to AR expression.B7-H4 and IDO1 expression was exclusive in the non-luminal androgen receptor subtype of TNBC. These trends in expression may help in the future selection of antiandrogenic agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors for patient treatment.
Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) canker caused by Pantoea agglomerans
Authors: Aeini Milad , Parizipour Mohamad Hamed Ghodoum , Nasab Mitra Omidi , Heidari Maede , Fazliarab Amal
Published: May 2023

Pistachio (Pistacia veraL.) is a perennial woody plant that produces edible seeds with a high nutritional value. Canker disease is one of the important diseases of pistachio, causing considerable loss globally. During 2019–2021, a series of symptoms, including tree weakness, brown to black lesions, canker, and exudation of black sap were observed on the trunk of pistachio trees from different regions of Lorestan province, western Iran. Bacterial isolation resulted in the development of uniform and yellow colonies on yeast-extract peptone glucose agar (YPGA) medium 24 hours post-inoculation (hpi). The colonies were then purified on YPGA and yeast-extract-dextrose-calcium-carbonate agar (YDC). Based on the analysis of morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics using nucleotide sequences of the gyrB, infB, atpD, and 16S rRNA, a putative pathogen was identified asPantoea agglomerans(formerlyEnterobacter agglomerans). To fulfill Koch's postulates, bacterial suspensions (107CFU/ml) were inoculated to one-year-old pistachio seedlings. Thirty days after inoculation, small necrotic lesions developed on the bark in the vicinity of inoculation sites, followed by brown necrotic streaks in the inner bark. Subsequently, the bacterial strains exhibiting the characteristic colony morphology were retrieved from lesions on inoculated pistachio seedlings and verified asP. agglomerans. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the occurrence of pistachio canker caused byP. agglomerans.
Time-dependent Inhibition of Rac1 in the VTA Enhances Long-term Aversive Memory: Implications in Active Forgetting Mechanisms
Authors: Dalto Juliana F. , Medina Jorge H.
Published: May 2023

The fate of memories depends mainly on two opposing forces: the mechanisms required for the storage and maintenance of memory and the mechanisms underlying forgetting, being the latter much less understood. Here, we show the effect of inhibiting the small Rho GTPase Rac1 on the fate of inhibitory avoidance memory in male rats. The immediate post-training micro-infusion of the specific Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766 (150 ng/0.5 µl/ side) into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) enhanced long-term memory at 1, 7, and 14 days after a single training. Additionally, an opposed effect occurred when the inhibitor was infused at 12 h after training while no effect was observed immediately after testing animals at 1 d. Control experiments ruled out the possibility that post-training memory enhancement was due to facilitation of memory formation since no effect was found when animals were tested at 1 h after acquisition and no memory enhancement was observed after the formation of a weak memory. Immediate post-training micro-infusion of Rac1 inhibitor into the dorsal hippocampus, or the amygdala did not affect memory. Our findings support the idea of a Rac1-dependent time-specific active forgetting mechanism in the VTA controlling the strength of a long-term aversive memory.
Bumble bee niche overlap along an elevation gradient: how traits can inform novel competitive pressures under climate change.
Authors: Barthell Kaitlyn , Resasco Julian
Published: May 2023

Climate change-induced range shifts can disrupt interactions between species by moving them in and out of ecological communities. These disruptions can include impacts on competition for shared resources. Bumble bees (Bombus spp.) are important pollinators shifting their range upwards in elevation in response to climate change. These shifts could lead to altered competition between species and threaten co-existence. These impacts are particularly worrying at the tops of mountains where bumble bees are “trapped” and can no longer move up to higher elevations to track climate change. To better understand this issue, we investigated changes in bumble bee diet niche overlap between species along a 2296m elevation gradient in the southern Rocky Mountains. Additionally, we investigated how morphological and phenological traits impact diet composition (flower species visited) between bumble bee species and explored how the continued upward movement of bumble bee species under climate change into the mountaintop may affect trait overlap of newly co-occurring species. We found that diet niche overlap between bumble bee species increased with elevation. We also found that differences in morphological and phenological traits (body size, tongue length, date of activity) were correlated with differences in diet composition between bumble bee species. Finally, we described how bumble bee species moving farther up mountaintops would lead to increased trait overlap for high-elevation species. These shifts could have implications for future competition for resident high-elevation species on mountaintops and exacerbate the effects of climate change on high-elevation bumble bees.
The results of 100 consecutive laparoscopic omentum-sparing gastric cancer resections with D2 lymphadenectomy
Authors: Jagric T , Kolaric Rok , Hladnik Gaja
Published: May 2023

Background
In the present paper, we intend to present the shot- and long-term results of omentum-preserving laparoscopic gastric cancer resections with D2 lymphadenectomy in 100 consecutive patients with stages 0-IV and perioperative chemotherapy.
Methods
The study's primary objectives were the perioperative results, the length of postoperative stay, and the 5-year overall and 5-year disease-specific survival.
Results
The mean age was 69 ± 11 years; the mean BMI was 26 ± 3 kg/m2. The tumors were primarily located in the middle and distal third of the stomach; 12% were actively bleeding or causing obstruction, necessitating an emergency operation. Perioperative chemotherapy was administered in 46% of the patients. Most patients received a total gastrectomy (52%), and 45% received a distal subtotal gastrectomy. The conversion rate was 16%. Perioperative complications occurred in 20%; the perioperative mortality was 1%. The median hospital stay was eight days. The most common UICC stage was Ia, followed by IIIb. Early gastric cancer was present only in 29% of patients. The 5-year overall and disease-specific survivals were 57.5% and 72.6%, respectively.
Conclusion
The results from this single high-volume center confirm the safety of laparoscopic omentum-preserving gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy in patients with advanced gastric cancer. The referral of gastric cancer patients to dedicated high-volume centers with specialized laparoscopic surgical teams might lead to similar high-quality results presented in Eastern trials.
The Significance of noninvasive therapies for cervical infection of high-risk human papilloma virus : A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhuang Yuan , Yang Hua
Published: May 2023

Objective To assess whether noninvasive therapies were related with clearance of cervical infection of high-risk human papilloma virus (hr-HPV) and regression of mild abnormal cytology related with hr-HPV. Methods Until April 2023, we identified a total of 10424 women with cervical infection of hr-HPV and 1966 women with mild abnormal cytology related with hr-HPV from 44 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results After systematic retrieving literature, we identified 2317 citations, 44 randomized controlled studies were enrolled. Cumulative results suggested noninvasive therapies benefited women who had cervical infection of hr-HPV. Both the clearance of hr-HPV (OR: 3.83, I2 = 99%, p < 0.00001) and regression of mild abnormal cytology related with hr-HPV (OR: 3.12, I2 = 63%, p < 0.00001) were significant higher than control group. Subgroup analyses stratified by systematic therapy, topical therapy, traditional chinese medicines (TCMs), presistent hr-HPV were consistent with results in the overall group.There was substantial heterogeneity between trials(I2 = 87% for clearance of hr-HPV and 63% for regression of cytology), sensitivity analysis was performed by excluding single study one by one, found the cumulative results were stable and dependable. Both the funnel plots for clearance of hr-HPV and regression of abnormal cytology were asymmetrical, significant publication bias might exist. Conclusion Noninvasive therapies benefited women who had cervical infection of hr-HPV with/without mild abnormal cytology related with hr-HPV. Both the clearance of hr-HPV and regression of abnormal cytology were significant higher than control group. More studies with less heterogeneity are needed urgently to draw a concrete conclusion.
Quality of Referrals to Specialist Palliative Care and Remote Patients’ Triage – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gradalski Tomasz , Kochan Krystyna
Published: May 2023

Purpose
Choosing the optimal moment for admission to palliative care remains a serious challenge, as it requires a systematic identification of persons with supportive care needs. Despite the screening tools available for referring physicians, revealing the essential information for preliminary admission triage is crucial for an undisturbed qualification process. The study was aimed at analysing the eligibility criteria for specialist palliative care disclosed within provided referrals, expanded when necessary by documentation and/or interview.
Methods
Referral forms with the documentation of 300 patients consecutively referred to the non- profit in-patient ward and home-care team in Poland were analysed in light of prognosis, phase of the disease and supportive needs.
Results
Half of the referrals had the sufficient information to make a justified preliminary qualification based solely on the delivered documentation. The majority lacked performance status or expected prognosis. Where some information was revealed, two-thirds were in a progressing phase of the disease, with a within-weeks life prognosis. In 53.7%, no particular reason for admission was given. Social problems were signalled as the only reason for the admission in 7.7%. Twenty-eight percent were labelled as “urgent”, however, 52.4% of them were triaged as “stable” or disqualified. Patients referred to a hospice ward received complete referral forms more often, containing all necessary information.
Conclusions
General physicians need practical tips to facilitate timely referrals and unburden the overloaded specialist palliative care. Dedicated referral forms extended by a checklist of typical patients’ concerns should be disseminated for better use of these resources.
All-Wood-Based Ionic Power Generation Triggered by Wastewater for Environmental Management
Authors: Zhang Kun , Li Xin , Shi Rongxiang , Yan Chenyang , Fang Zhiqiang , Zhou Songlin , Cao Rong , Tian Junfei
Published: May 2023

Water evaporation-aided electricity harvesting has gained much on significance for energy sustainability. All-bio-based hydrovoltaic materials increase the attractiveness of this strategy. Although promising, it faces a challenge due to its reliance on freshwater and its inherently low power output. Herein, we demonstrate the feasibility of reuse of alkaline wastewater for the first time to develop an all-wood-based water-induced electric generator (WEG) based on ion concentration gradients. The combination of evaporation-driven liquid flow and uneven distribution of electrolyte endows delignified wood with the difference of ion concentration along aligned cellulose nanochannels, thus supplying electrical power. The practice of using alkali reservoirs including industrial wastewater further contributes to electricity generation. The cubic WEG with a side length of 2 cm can produce an ultra-high open-circuit voltage of about 1.1 V, and a short-circuit current of up to 320 μA. A remarkable power output of 6.75 μW cm–2 is correspondingly realized. Series-connected WEGs can be used as an energy source for commercial electronics and self-powered systems. Our design provides a double value proposition, allowing at the same time for sustainable energy generation and wastewater reuse.
Sedimentological and geochemical characterization of the sediments in the south of Gorgan Bay
Authors: Kiani Sara , Lak Razieh , Haftani Zahra , najafiha babak , Ahmadabadi Ali
Published: May 2023

Gorgan Bay, located southeast of the Caspian Sea, has an area of 358 km2. This bay is connected with the Caspian Sea through the Ashooradeh-Chopoqli channels. The purpose of this research is to determine the water level fluctuation of the Caspian Sea with the physical and chemical characteristics of the sediments. for this purpose, sedimentological and statistical parameters were done. So field surveys were conducted to control remote sensing observations. A sedimentary core with maximum depth of 37 cm was taken using a PVC tube. A total of 7 sediment samples from the target core and 2 surface sediment samples were collected and analyzed. Sediments were separated based on texture, type of sediments, organic matter, color, and presence of plant and shell residues. Sampling was done based on changes in the sediment type and sedimentary facies. Grain size distribution of the particles equal to or greater than sand was performed using a wet sieve shaker, while smaller particles (silt and clay) were graded by a laser particle sizer. Next, the statistical parameters of sedimentology were calculated and analyzed in the SPSS software. Elemental analysis was carried out using an Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) device in the laboratory of the Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration of Iran. The results show that sedimentation in the bay increase with a decrease in the sea level, flow intensity and energy, slope, and depth. As a coastal sedimentary basin, Gorgan Bay is highly dependent on the Caspian Sea. However, large parts of these connection channels of the bay have dried up due to the seawater level decline. As a result, the water depth at the boundary of the channels has dropped to less than 50 cm, especially in the Chopoqli channel, which today is a marshy area covered with halophytic vegetation. Fluctuations in the Caspian Sea level have affected the morphology of coastal sediments in Gorgan Bay and have led to significant changes during sea level decline. According to sedimentology, sedimentary facies, and sedimentary geochemistry studies, at least two periods of sea level rise and two periods of sea level fall were identified in the studied core.
Empirical Analysis of Public Expenditures and Income Inequality among Developing Economies
Authors: Zerihun Mulatu Fekadu
Published: May 2023

Developing economies are not immune to the inequality challenges. Inequality is one of the critical challenges affecting the livelihood in developing economies and hinders their development paths. This paper investigates the World Bank development policies in achieving income inequality in selected developing economies. To achieve this objective, three types of regressions carried out for all three income groups; pooled OLS regression, random effect and fixed effect generalized least square GLS) regressions on panel data from 1980 to 2020. Findings revealed that wide-ranging World Bank initiatives in supporting low-income countries in promoting public expenditures on education, health and R&D are key factors to address the problems associated with income inequality. In addition, the study revealed that the debt service ratio, World Bank loan, international development assistance, and foreign direct investment have no significant power to reduce inequality within the analysed countries. Consequently, the study recommends authorities of developing countries be more cautious when applying for loans or aid and also have a serious evaluation before allowing foreign investors to start a business within their respective countries.
JEL Classification: D63; F68; I24; P36
New Green Williamson Hydrophobization of Cellulose: Thermodynamic Study and Application as New Process to Elaborate the Drug Delivery System Coacervates
Authors: El-Hammi Hayat , Barkany Soufian El , Jabir Loubna , Azougagh Omar , Jilal Issam , Achalhi Nafea , Salhi Amine , Idrissi Abderrahmane El , Ouardi Youssef El , Abou-Salama Mohamed , Laatikainen Katri
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the “Dispersive Coacervation (D-Coac)” was investigated as new process to elaborate new Rosemary Essential Oil (REO) dispersion-loaded biodegradable plastic coacervates. The active principle (REO) is coated using D-Coac as a model process for designing vector systems and drug delivery matrix. The REO (~ 54%w) was wrapped in Benzyl cellulose acrylate (BCac, DSBnz~1.4 and DSAcr~0.4) coacervates, which is prepared in the dispersing aqueous phase. During the reaction, the dispersive forces "generated by the grafting reaction" disturb the hydrophilic character of the water-soluble cellulose acrylate (Cac0.4). At this stage, the hydrophobic behavior, acquired by the grafted benzylic entities, increases the BCac-affinity to the organic compounds (oily dispersed phase). Therefore, the migration of the resulting polymer chains to the EO-rich (discontinuous) micellar dispersed phase is strongly suggested. As a result, the BCac0.4 chains form "Pickering" type membranes at the biphasic micellar interface, and therefore encapsulating the AP. Experimental investigations, such as the relationship between the degree of substitution (DS) and the demixing behavior of the polymer solutions, were in good agreement with the theoretical interpretations that based on the Flory-Huggins thermodynamic theory. In addition, the results showed a high DS effect on the physicochemical properties, especially the molar Gibbs free energy of mixing.
Seismic Full Waveform Inversion Accelerated by Overlapping Data Input and Computation
Authors: Zhang Junqiu , Rao Ying
Published: May 2023

Seismic full waveform inversion (FWI) is a powerful technology to obtain high-precision and high-resolution images of subsurface structures. However, FWI is a data-intensive algorithm that needs to read extensive seismic data from disks, which significantly affects its performance. We proposed a portable parallel framework to improve FWI by overlapping data input and computation (ODIC). The framework is based on POSIX threads (Pthreads) which is a standard thread API library and can create a parent thread and a child thread in the FWI process. The former is used to perform computation and the later to read data from disks, both running simultaneously. This framework has two attractive features. First, it is broadly applicable; it can run on almost any computer from a laptop to a supercomputer. Second, it is easy to implement; it can be readily applied to existing FWI programs. A 3D FWI example shows that the framework speeds up FWI considerably.
Using remote-sensing and citizen-science data to assess urban biodiversity for sustainable cityscapes
Authors: Ziliaskopoulos Konstantinos , Laspidou Chrysi
Published: May 2023

Urban biodiversity is an important and growing research area as cities continue to expand and human populations concentrate in urban centers. In order to effectively conserve urban biodiversity and inform future urban planning, a thorough understanding of the patterns and underlying factors affecting biodiversity is essential. However, a methodology of assessing urban biodiversity that would be replicable to different cities has been challenging, primarily due to data limitation on habitats and species in urban areas. In response to these challenges, our study implements a biodiversity analysis framework, adapted for the municipality of Athens, Greece, a city that is facing its own unique challenges in preserving biodiversity while accommodating urban growth. The methodology is implemented at a zipcode level. By clustering the case study on different features that explain biodiversity and validating our results using citizen science data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of urban biodiversity patterns in the city of Athens. This study incorporates a k-means clustering scheme that leads to the classification of habitats in the urban setting and utilizes citizen science-generated species occurrence data from the GBIF platform. This integrative approach allows us to account for fine-scale environmental variation, which plays a crucial role in species' abundances and distributions in urban settings. This work highlights the significance of zipcode-level analyses in understanding the complex interplay between urbanization and biodiversity. Our findings offer valuable insights for urban planning and biodiversity management in Athens and beyond, emphasizing the importance of incorporating both environmental and species information in the quest to protect and enhance urban biodiversity.
Healthcare costs for hospitalized COVID-19 patients in a Japanese university hospital: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Uno Shunsuke , Goto Rei , Honda Kimiko , Tokuda Machiko , Kamata Hirofumi , Chubachi Shotaro , Yamamoto Ryo , Sato Yukio , Homma Koichiro , Uchida Sho , Namkoong Ho , Uwamino Yoshifumi , Sasaki Junichi , Fukunaga Koichi , Hasegawa Naoki
Published: May 2023

Background: A health-economic evaluation related to COVID-19 is urgently needed to allocate healthcare resources efficiently; however, relevant medical cost data in Japan concerning COVID-19 are scarce.
Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated the healthcare cost for hospitalized COVID-19 patients in 2021 at Keio University Hospital. We calculated the healthcare costs during hospitalization using hospital claims data and investigated the variables significantly related to the healthcare cost with multivariate analysis.
Results: The median healthcare cost per patient for the analyzed 330 patients was Japanese yen (JPY) 1,304,431 (US dollars ~11,871) (interquartile range: JPY 968,349–1,954,093), and the median length of stay was 10 days. The median healthcare cost was JPY 798,810 for mild cases; JPY 1,113,680 for moderate I cases; JPY 1,643,909 for moderate II cases; and JPY 6,210,607 for severe cases. Healthcare costs increased by 4.0% for each additional day of hospitalization; 1.26 times for moderate I cases; 1.64 times for moderate II cases; 1.84 times for severe cases; and 2.05 times for cases involving ICU stay.
Conclusions: We clarified the healthcare cost for hospitalized COVID-19 patients by severity in a Japanese university hospital. These costs contribute as inputs for forthcoming health economic evaluations for strategies for preventing and treating COVID-19.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy versus Lenvatinib for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombosis: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: ji Xiaoquan , Zhang Aimin , Duan Xuezhang , Wang Quan
Published: May 2023

Background and objectives:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the survival benefit of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) versus lenvatinib as first-line therapy in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT).
Materials and Methods
147 HCC patients with PVTT were included in this retrospective study, 70 were treated with SBRT and 77 of were treated with lenvatinib. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was employed to balance the differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR) were compared between the two groups. In addition, the safety of patients in both groups was also evaluated.
Results
After PSM, 38 patients were matched in each of the two groups. The median OS was 14.5 (95% CI: 10.1–18.9) and 11.1 (95% CI: 9.3–12.9) months in the SBRT and lenvatinib groups, respectively (P = 0.014). The median PFS was 6.8 (95% CI: 5.1–8.5) and 5.0 (95% CI: 3.0–7.0) months, respectively (P = 0.010). The 1-, 2-years OS rates in the two groups were 65.8% vs. 39.5% and 31.6% vs. 10.5%, respectively. The 6-, 12-months PFS rates in the two groups were 57.9% vs. 44.7% and 28.9% vs. 10.5%, respectively. In addition, the SBRT group had a better ORR than the lenvatinib group (52.6% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.009). Patients with good response to SBRT had better survival. Cox proportional hazard model showed that SBRT was an important prognostic factor for OS and PFS. The incidence of hypertension (34.2% vs 0%) was higher in the LEN group, however, both treatment modalities were well tolerated in the two groups of patients.
Conclusion
In HCC patients with PVTT, SBRT had a better survival benefit than Lenvatinib treatment as first-line therapy.
Percentile influence of beam column cross section design on progressive collapse potential of low-rise reinforced concrete framed structure
Authors: Sheikh Tariq Ahmad , Banday J M , Pasupuleti Venkata Dilip Kumar
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate the behavior of low-rise, four-story RC framed structures when subjected to abnormal loads, specifically missing column scenarios. The study uses more than 20 unique models with varying beam and column cross sections and designs them for India's four seismic zones (Z2, Z3, Z4, and Z5) in accordance with IS 456–2000 and IS 1893–2016 using FEM based ETABS V.17 Software. The study evaluates the potential for progressive collapse of structures in all three possible cases of column removal, as per the GSA (2016) Guidelines, using the linear static analysis approach. The investigation aims to determine the progressive collapse potential of low-rise reinforced concrete framed structures designed for Indian seismic zones, and the effect of different beam and column cross sections on the structures' progressive collapse potential. The study finds that structures designed for high seismic zones (seismic zone 5 with high beam column cross sections) have greater progressive collapse resistance, while those designed for low seismic zones (seismic zone 2 with low beam column cross sections) have lower resistance. The study also analyzes and designs the structural models for seismic loading and examines the behavior of critical columns (flexure) after column missing scenarios by studying the column interaction diagrams for GSA load-generating internal forces. Additionally, the study quantifies the notable effect on the material quantities (Concrete and longitudinal reinforcement), as they have a significant influence on the ductility and flexibility of the frame behavior.