bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial transcriptomics identified mucin-specific O-glycosylation as a key pathway in pancreatic cancer development and a promising therapeutic target
Authors: Agostini Antonio , Guerriero Ilaria , Piro Geny , Inzani Frediano , Quero Giuseppe , Roberto Luca , Esposito Annachiara , Caggiano Alessia , Larghi Alberto , Alfieri Sergio , Bria Emilio , Corbo Vincenzo , Tortora Giampaolo , Carbone Carmine
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND.
Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) are the most prevalent pancreatic cystic neoplasms which may progress to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most lethal solid malignancy. Therefore, patients suffering from this condition represent the ideal population where to address the efforts of identifying prevention or interception strategies. Here, we used spatial transcriptomics on IPMNs of different grade to identify mechanisms that are associated to the progression of those lesions toward invasive carcinomas.
METHODS.
We analysed 43 IPMNs grouped according to their dysplasia grade by digital spatial whole transcriptome analysis (GeoMX Human Whole Transcriptome Atlas). The high-resolution of the technology gave us the opportunity to define the genes activated along progression of IPMN to cancer, ruling out the background given by the non-neoplastic cells. The gene signature identified was validated for expression in an external validation cohort of IPMN patients and in TCGA dataset and as therapeutic target in in vitro 3D models and in in vivo syngeneic orthotopic model of PDAC.
RESULTS.
By spatial transcriptome profiling of IPMNs with different dysplasia grades, we identified more than 3000 genes differentially expressed between LGD-, HGD- IPMNs and during transformation into invasive carcinoma. One of the top differentially regulated gene signature, mucins-specific O-Glycosylation, was both validated in a cohort of patients (n=9) by immunofluorescence (IF) analysis and in TCGA dataset. Preclinical models of pancreatic cancer, including in vitro 3D and in vivo experiments confirmed the role of GCNT3 and mucins in protecting tumor cells from T-cells recognition.
CONCLUSIONS.
We identified more than 3000 genes differentially expressed between LGD- and HGD- IPMNs and along the transformation from IPMN into invasive carcinoma. These results shed light on the role of mucin-specific O-glycosylation in the IPMN progression and in PDAC offering suitable markers for the early diagnosis. Moreover, we demonstrated in in vitro 3D models and in vivo experiment that GCNT3, the main regulator of mucins post-translational modification, is an actionable target in PDAC, paving the way for the development of novel strategies to target the protective mucin barrier to enhance PDAC chemotherapy efficacy.
Summer Heatwaves Trends and Hotspots in the Barcelona Metropolitan Region (1914-2020)
Authors: Serra Carina , Lana Xavier , Martínez Maria-Dolors D. , Arellano Blanca , Roca Josep , Biere Rolando
Published: September 2022

Daily maximum, TX, and minimum, TN, temperatures recorded at Fabra Observatory, for the period 1914–2020 (from June to September), have permitted to identify the daytime and nighttime heatwaves, HWs, at Barcelona Metropolitan Region, BMR, along 107 years. Four indices have been computed both for maximum and minimum temperatures heatwaves: the number of events per season, HWN; their maximum duration, HWD; their frequency of occurrence, HWF; and the amplitude of the hottest day event, HWA. Trends in these indices have been obtained and their statistical significance quantified by means of the Mann-Kendall test. For the whole period (1914–2020), positive significant trends have been detected for the four indices corresponding to maximum and minimum temperatures. Nevertheless, when 30-year moving window datasets have been analysed, trends of different signs are obtained. The change in these signs, around 1960s, is outstanding, as well as the behaviour of the heatwaves since year 2000 for TX, and since 1985 for TN, when every year has at least one episode with high duration and amplitude. The convenience of using the four HW indices is evaluated applying a Principal Component Analysis, PCA. Additionally, the spatial distributions of the Modis land surface temperatures, LST, corresponding to some extreme heatwaves, permits the detection of two hotspots in the BMR, one of them for TX and the other for TN. It is also worth mentioning that correlations between Western Mediterranean Oscillation index, WeMOi, and HW episodes are detected, being notable that at the beginning of these episodes WEMOi values are usually lower.
A Framework for Transportation and Land Use Integration as a Parallel Constrained Multiple Discrete-continuous Extreme Value (PC-MDCEV) Home Production Model
Authors: Hawkins Jason , Habib Khandker Nurul
Published: September 2022

Integrated urban models (IUM) typically rely on a measure of accessibility or travel time to form the link between the transportation and land use systems. Such integration does not fully capture the tradeoffs made by households in how they spend their limited temporal and monetary budgets. We propose a microeconomic foundation for transportation and land use choice model integration based on the theory of home production. A utility function is developed that considers both household monetary expenditure and individual time use. We propose several innovations in model structure, which address the limitations of previous home production functions. First, the introduction of a parallel constrained multiple discrete-continuous extreme value (MDCEV) structure that allows for the inclusion of multi-person households in the model. Second, travel time is defined as the minimum time required to conduct an activity and deducted from the temporal budget. This assumption has several appealing features. It defines the minimum time to complete an activity as a measure of accessibility. An empirical application is provided for the Greater Toronto Area using a validated synthetic dataset. Finally, we provide several directions for future research to advance the practice of urban modeling and better capture the complex dynamics of household decision-making.
Topological Characterization of Statistically Clustered Networks for Molecular Similarity Analysis
Authors: Sambanthan Gurunathan , Thangaraj Yogalakshmi , Krishnan Balasubramanian
Published: September 2022

Statistical clustering technique is extensively employed in molecular similarity analysis where molecules can be clustered on the basis of Euclidean similarity distances derived from rules of similarity measures. Such clusters can be extremely useful in quantitative structure-property relations (QSPR) as any representative within a cluster would have properties similar to other members of the cluster. Consequently, topological techniques for the characterization of such statistical clusters can be useful in many areas including drug research. We compute distance-based topological indices of the statistical cluster networks such as Szeged, Padmakar-Ivan and Mostar indices which provide different measures such as centrality, peripherality, and other properties of the corresponding networks.
Optimization, Statistical and Adsorption Analysis of Cr(VI) using Corn Industry Sludge: Kinetic and Isotherm Studies
Authors: Kerur Shankramma S. , Hanagadakar Manjunath S. , Nandi Santosh S. , Sholapurmath Ratnamala , Hosamane Sateesh N.
Published: September 2022

A novel, cost-effective activated carbon was prepared from local corn industry waste sludge to treat chromium (VI) ions from an aqueous solution. Adsorption is one of the promising techniques for treating chromium. The adsorption efficiency depends on temperature, pH, metal ion concentrations, contact time, and adsorbent dose. Activation increase the adsorbent sites on the surface of the adsorbent, and SEM micrographs indicate the adsorption sites before and after adsorption. IR spectrum of FT-IR spectrophotometer was used for analysis Investigation of equilibrium adsorption isotherm data reveals suitability of corn industry waste for treating chromium (VI) ions. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics of chromium (VI) adsorption indicate agreement of the experimental data to Frendulich isotherm and pseudo-second-order model and chemisorption as the reason for Cr(VI) removal. The corn industry waste is thermally activated by heating in a controlled atmosphere at 500° C. Kinetic data studies elucidated that adsorption tracks a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The maximum adsorption capacity and adsorption efficiency of chromium (VI) were found to be 6.80 mg/g at were pH of 4 with a contact time of 150 min and 91.43% using 1.5 g of adsorbent. The outcomes of corn industry sludge as the advantage of low-cost material and an effective adsorbent for Cr (VI) removal. The statistical analysis of adsorption was studied through response surface methodology (RSM). The experimental and theoretical values for percentage adsorption of Cr were observed as 92.91% and 91.43%, respectively. The experimental results closely agree with the central composite design.
Investigating the Performance of low-cost millimeter wave for long-distance Front haul RoF system based on Pre-distortion & FBG techniques
Authors: Ali sevan Hussein , Al-Maqdici Raghad Zuhair Yousif
Published: September 2022

In this work, the effects of both Pre-distortion devices and fiber brag grating (FBG) techniques on the optical (mm-wave) in Front haul RoF have been investigated. The scope of this work is to design a simple and low-cost but efficient RoF mmm-wave-based system by utilizing a single Dual Drive Mach- Zehnder modulator (DDMZM) to feed up-converted baseband signals of different transmission rates 1,2.5, 5, 10 Gbps at input frequencies of 15, 30, 60, 65 GHz respectively. The Predistortion (PD) technique has been proven to enhance the linearity of transmitter amplifiers, which results in boosting the power efficiency of the proposed model and hence combats the non-linearity, which is one of the main problems in the RoF link. Two pulse generators have been tested in this work: Return-to-Zero (RZ) and Non-Return-to- Zero (NRZ). A single-mode fiber (SMF) is equipped with FBG to compensate for link dispersion along with an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) and at a far terminal, an optical Gaussian filter (GOF) is employed to mitigate attenuation and band limit the optical received signal, respectively. The simulation results revealed that a Q-factor of around 8.67, and BER of 2.05E-18 can be achieved when combining both Pre-distortion and RZ format along with Pre-FBG technologies with a fiber link of 140km at 5Gbps bitrate utilizing 15 GHz local oscillator 60 GHz mm-wave. The findings showed that a 130 GHz mm-wave is generated with Q-factor of 7.4, and BER of 5.08E-14 with fiber length of 140 km and a data rate of 1Gbps.
To molt or not to molt: The dilemma of acquiring sexual maturity while losing durability and dispersal ability in deutonymphs of Parasitus fimetorum (Gamasida; Parasitidae)
Authors: Yasui Yukio
Published: September 2022

The dispersal from birthplace is an effective strategy to cope with unpredictable environmental change. In many animals, dispersal is carried out prior to mating and reproduction to avoid inbreeding. However, this also means that the dispersers have to find mate at the new habitat. Parasitus fimetorum (Acari; Parasitidae) is a free-living predatory mite inhabiting animal dung and manures. In such ephemeral habitats, the mites quickly develop from eggs to deutonymphs as an environmentally-tolerant, dispersal stage. After the dispersal to new habitat using dung beetles as phoretic hosts, deutonymphs have to make a decision; to molt to adult with losing the tolerance and migration ability or not to molt and continue migration. Here, using the molting-suppressed deutonymphs which were developed under isolated condition, I investigated whether food conditions (amount of rearing medium bearing nematodes as prey) and the encounter with conspecifics stimulate their molting. Drastic increase of the food resources induced molting of both sexes but the responses to the pairing treatment were different between sexes. Whereas female deutonymphs molted at the encounter with males irrespective of deutonymphs or adults, molting of male deutonymphs was induced only when paired with female deutonymphs (not adult females). Because the adult females are usually non-virgin and already started oviposition, the males seemed to discriminate against them. The decision about molting is understandable as a male mate choice, which is adaptive at the limited mating opportunities in the ephemeral environments.
Effects of high-grain diet feeding on fatty acid profiles in milk, blood, muscle, and adipose tissue, and transcriptional expression of lipid-related genes in muscle and adipose tissue of dairy cows
Authors: Cui Qiaorong , Lin Limei , Lai Zheng , Mao Shengyong
Published: September 2022

Background
High-grain (HG) diets affect lipid metabolism in the liver and mammary tissue of dairy cows, but its effects on muscle and adipose tissue have not been wide evaluated. Thus, the aim of this study is to clarify this issue.
Methods
Twelve Holstein cows were randomly divided into two groups: conventional diet group (CON, n = 6) and the HG diet (n = 6). On day7 of week4, rumen fluid was sampled to measure pH, milk was sampled to measure components, and blood was sampled to measure biochemical parameters and fatty acid composition. After the experiment, cows were slaughtered to collect muscle and adipose tissue for fatty acid composition and transcriptome analysis.
Results
HG feeding decreased the ruminal pH, milk’s fat content and long-chain fatty acid proportion (P < 0.05) and increased the proportion of short- and medium-chain fatty acids in the milk (P < 0.05) as compared with CON diets. The concentrations of blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the HG cows were lower than those in CON cows (P < 0.05). In muscle tissue, HG feeding tended to increase the triacylglycerol (TG) concentration (P < 0.10). Transcriptome analysis revealed changes in the biosynthesis of the unsaturated fatty acids pathway, the regulation of lipolysis in the adipocytes pathway, and the PPAR signalling pathway. In adipose tissue, HG feeding increased the concentration of TG and monounsaturated fatty acids (P < 0.05). At the transcriptome level, the fatty acid biosynthesis pathway, linoleic acid metabolism pathway, and PPAR signalling pathway were activated.
Conclusion
HG feeding leads to subacute rumen acidosis (SARA) and a decreased milk fat content. The fatty acid profiles in the milk and plasma of dairy cows were changed by HG feeding. In muscle and adipose tissue, HG feeding increased TG concentration and up-regulated the expression of genes related to adipogenesis, while down-regulated the expression of genes related to lipid transport. These results complement our knowledge of the fatty acid composition of muscle and adipose tissue in dairy cows and expand our understanding of the mechanisms by which HG diets affect lipid metabolism in muscle and adipose tissue.
HAPLN3 Inhibits Apoptosis and Promotes EMT of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma via ERK and Bcl-2 Signal Pathways
Authors: Ding Yi , Xiong Shida , Chen Xinpeng , Pan Qiufeng , Fan Jiawen , Guo Ju
Published: September 2022

Hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 3 (HAPLN3) is a member of the hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein family expressed in the extracellular matrix closely associated with the development and occurrence of various malignant tumors; yet, its function in clear cell renal cell cancer (ccRCC) is still poorly understood. The following study investigated the progress and mechanism of HAPLN3 on ccRCC using bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments. In order to determine whether HAPLN3 is differentially expressed in ccRCC, we analyzed data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GSE40435 and further validated them in the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. Simultaneously, the TCGA dataset was utilized to study the relationship between HAPLN3 expression and the progression of ccRCC and its prognostic value in ccRCC. Gene enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to explore HAPLN3-related signaling pathways in ccRCC. The TIMER database investigates the link for both HAPLN3 and immune cell infiltration. Different ccRCC cell lines the role of HAPLN3 on cell biological behavior in vitro. HAPLN3 was increased in ccRCC, and its high expression was related to the patients' survival rates and clinical characteristics. GSEA showed that HAPLN3 is mainly enriched in proliferative and metastatic pathways. In addition, HAPLN3 was an independently associated significant predictor in patients with ccRCC. Functional experiments demonstrated that HAPLN3 could promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ccRCC cells through the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. To sum up, our data suggest that HAPLN3 may serve as a new prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for ccRCC.
Characterization and Classification of Soils at Yaballa
Authors: Arfasa Fekede , Bekele Abdissa , Sori Gedafa
Published: September 2022

This research was conducted to characterize and classify the major soil types of Yaballa sub-watershed. A total of 12 disturbed and 12 undisturbed soil samples were collected from three representative profiles. In all profiles the soil consistence of surface horizons varied from hard to soft, friable to very friable and slightly sticky to very sticky. The lower bulk densities (1.01 gcm− 3) at foot slope while the higher (1.09 gcm− 3) at back slope and summit was recorded. The surface pH ranged from 4.65 at back slope to 5.20 under summit. The low (0.26 and 1.85 cmolckg−1) exchangeable acidity at the surface horizons under summit and foot slope, respectively. The organic matter in the topsoil varied from 3.70% at foot slope to 5.23% at high altitude of summit. The highest (17.02 cmolckg−1) subsurface of exchangeable base was recorded under foot slope. The smallest value (6.07 cmolckg−1) was recorded under back slope. In the surface horizons, cation exchange capacity varied from 25.70 to 36.41cmolckg− 1 under back and foot slope, respectively. The base saturation at surface ranged from 26.09–40.67%. Therefore, this study identified Luvic Nitisol for the foot slope, Haplic Acrisol for the back slope and Haplic Cambisol for the summit. Thus, soil characterization and classification of an area is the main information generated for land resource management as well as evaluation of land suitability for specific agricultural uses. However, to provide the more actual evidence, this type research should be further conducted at different areas of the district.
Dye tracing of the Lusaka Karstified Aquifer system: Implications towards urban groundwater quality protection
Authors: Simaubi Mercy , Banda Kawawa , Levy Jonathan , Meiman Joe , Nyambe Imasiku
Published: September 2022

Management of groundwater resources requires a large amount of data, coupled with an understanding of the aquifer system behaviour. In developing countries, the scarcity in groundwater data has led to aquifers being managed according to rule-of-thumb standards, or even abandoned as unmanageable at times. Groundwater quality protection, thus has been through prescribed separation distances often without due regard for internal and boundary characteristics that effect response rates of groundwater movement, attenuation of pollutants and recharge. In this study, we examine the boundary characteristics of the highly vulnerable Karst aquifer system in the rapidly expanding city of Lusaka using a dye tracer technique. We investigate the flow dynamics (magnitude and direction) of groundwater using dye tracer dyes (Fluorescein and Rhodamine) spiked in pit latrines and observed at discharge springs. The results provide irrefutable evidence that pit latrines are a source and a pathway to contamination of groundwater. Dye tracer movement in groundwater was rapid, estimated at 340 m/day and 430 m/day for fluorescein and rhodamine, respectively, through interconnected conduit density. The vadose zone (epikarst) tends to store diffuse recharge before release to the phreatic zone. These rapid groundwater movement render regulatory separation minimum distances of 100 m between abstraction wells and pit latrines/septic tanks in such environments to be an ineffective means of reducing contamination. The policy focus in the protection of groundwater quality should hence forth focus on robust sanitation solutions especially for low-income communities that recognises the socio-economic diversity.
Fast-Response Method for E-core switched-flux permanent-magnet brushless machine with Outer Rotor to Predict Distribution of Flux density at No-Load
Authors: Shirzad Ehsan
Published: September 2022

This paper investigates a two-dimension analytical model for E-core flux-switching permanent magnet brushless machine (FSPMBM) with outer rotor. This method is used to consider the effects of teethes on both the rotor and stator with mathematical method based on integration moreover saturation effect is neglected. This analytical method is implemented for magnetic field calculations in E-core FSPMBM with outer rotor with any combination of rotor-and stator-pole number at no load. To calculate distribution of flux density, initially, the stator and rotor iron is assumed to be infinitely permeable and Maxwell equations are provided then use the boundary conditions at intersection of two sub-regions to find the unknown coefficients for extracting changes of flux density in airgap with respect to each angle and radios. In order to validate the extracted results, the proposed model results are compared with those obtained from finite element method (FEM).
Glutathione peroxidase 3 is a novel clinical diagnostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for neutrophils in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhou Zhen , Peng Minge , Hu Huifang , Sun Rui , Xu Jiayi , Zhu Chenxi , Li Yanhong , Zhang Qiuping , Luo Yubin , Yang Bin , Dai Lunzhi , Liu Yi , Muñoz Luis E. , Meng Liesu , Herrmann Martin , Zhao Yi
Published: September 2022

Background: Neutrophils have a critical role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with immune system dysfunction. However, the molecular mechanisms of this process mediated by neutrophils still remain elusive. The purpose of the present study is to identify hub genes in neutrophils for diagnosis and treatment of RA utilizing publicly available datasets.
Methods: Gene expression profiles were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus and batch-corrected and normalized expression data were obtained using the ComBat package. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis were used to conduct significantly functional analysis and crucial pathways. The resulting co-expression genes modules and hub genes were generated based on the weighted gene co-expression network analysis and visualization by Cytoscape. Flow cytometry was conducted to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in neutrophils.
Results: Neutrophils underwent transcriptional changes in synovial fluid (SF) of RA patients, different from peripheral blood of healthy controls or patients with RA. Especially, glycolysis, HIF-1 signaling, NADH metabolism, and oxidative stress were affected. These hub genes were strongly linked with classical glycolysis-related genes (ENO1, GAPDH, and PKM) responsible for ROS production. The antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), a ROS scavenger, was first identified as a hub gene in RA neutrophils. Neutrophils from patients with autoimmune diseases had markedly enhanced ROS levels, most notably in RA SF.
Conclusion: This research recognized hub genes and explored the characteristics of neutrophils in RA. Our findings suggest that the novel hub gene GPX3 is involved in the neutrophil-driven oxidative stress-mediated pathogenesis of RA. It has the potency to be a target for neutrophil-directed RA therapy.
A Pioneering Study on Spatial-Temporal Variability and Probabilistic Health Risk Assessment of Fluoride in Natural and Artificial Lakes from Turkey
Authors: Tokatlı Cem , Onur Şirin Güner , Dindar Mediha Büyükgöze , Malafaia Guilherme , I Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul
Published: September 2022

Spatial-temporal variability of fluoride in water has been a major global health concern. However, in Turkey, there has been very limited research quantifying the probabilistic health risks from fluoride accumulations in the water of natural-artificial lakes. Thus, we aim to determine the spatial-temporal variability and probabilistic health risk of fluoride exposure in the water of stagnant water bodies in the Thrace region (Turkey). A total of 33 stagnant water bodies were selected, and water samples were collected during the dry and wet seasons of 2021–2022. The fluoride levels were measured by using a spectrophotometric method, and the estimated daily intake (EDI) and hazard quotient (HQ) were calculated using the health risk model. The seasonality and spatial-temporal variability of the fluoride content in the water of natural and artificial lentic environments were examined. The fluoride accumulations varied from 0.16–0.64 mg/L for the natural lakes, 0.04–0.74 mg/L for the reservoirs, and 0.01–0.53 mg/L for the artificial ponds. The study area had a fluoride deficiency of less than 0.5 mg/L in natural water bodies during the wet season (87.87%) and the dry season (93.93%), which might be a potential health threat. All the calculated HQ values, both in the dry and wet seasons and in all age groups, were recorded as 1. Both teenagers and children living in the central part of the study area are at higher risk than infants and adults. To evaluate model uncertainty, Monte Carlo simulations were employed. The outcome of the sensitivity analysis revealed that the major risks to the health of inhabitants are the high content of fluoride and their daily intake of water. Overall, a case-sensitive study should be conducted to investigate further health impacts from drinking low fluoride-containing water in the study region.
Effects of self-directed learning on clinical competence and the mediating role of clinical learning environment among internship nursing students: A structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Vasli Parvaneh , Asadiparvar-Masouleh Hanieh
Published: September 2022

Introduction

It is crucial to recognize the factors affecting the clinical competence of internship nursing students. This study aimed to determine the effects of self-directed learning on the clinical competence of internship nursing students with the mediating role of the clinical learning environment.

Methods

This cross-sectional research was performed on 300 internship nursing students selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected in one stage using three tools of Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale for Nursing Education, Education Environment Measure, and Clinical Competence Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 21 and Smart-PLS version 3 using Partial least squares-SEM with considering a p-value of 0.05.

Results

The results showed that 20.5% of the variance in clinical competence could be explained by self-directed and clinical learning environments. Self-directed learning had a positive and significant effect on clinical competence (path coefficient = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.26; p = 0.027), and on clinical learning environment as well (path coefficient = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.52; p < 0.001). A relationship was reported between clinical learning environment and clinical competence (path coefficient = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.25, 0.50; p < 0.001). The indirect effect of self-directed learning on clinical competence was positive and significant (path coefficient = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.17; p < 0.001). Self-directed learning has a significant total effect on clinical competence (path coefficient = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.40; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

It is recommended that nursing education managers and instructors consider some plans to enhance self-directed learning among nursing students and improve the clinical learning environment.
Long Term Safety Results of LASIK Refractive Surgery: A Twenty-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Hickenbotham Adam L. , Tanehsakdi Morakot , Chansue Ekktet
Published: September 2022

Purpose:
To evaluate the 20-year safety, efficacy, and satisfaction of LASIK patients treated between 1997 and 2002.
Setting:
Private Practice
Design:
Randomized Retrospective Study
Methods:
A sample of patients who underwent LASIK between 1997 and 2002 was randomly selected during annual follow-up examinations. Study compared pre-operative refractive error and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) with measurements at most recent follow-up. Participants completed satisfaction questionnaires at last visit. Retreatments were performed when determined appropriate by both doctor and patient.
Results:
238 patients (468 eyes) had an initial average manifest refraction of -5.16 ±2.86 D sphere (median, -4.75 D) and -0.88 ±0.94 D cylinder (median, -0.75 D). Average manifest refraction at most recent follow-up was -0.33 ±1.08 D sphere (median, 0.00 D) and -0.47 ±0.45 D cylinder (median, -0.50 D).
92.1% of eyes achieved 20/20 or better CDVA at recent follow-up compared to 86.7% achieving 20/20 or better CDVA pre-operatively. 97.4% of participants reported satisfaction with having LASIK. Common problems included distance blur (4.7%), eye dryness (2.0%), and glare/halos (1.3%). All participants reported greater independence from glasses and greater convenience in daily life. Retreatment rate across 22 years was 31.2%.
Conclusions:
After over 20 years post-treatment, LASIK refractive surgery was shown to be highly effective with a high level of safety and satisfaction. Mean CDVA was higher after 20 years post-LASIK than prior to surgery. Retreatments were commonly provided to maintain good unaided distance acuity. Overall, potential long-lasting negative side effects of LASIK, such as dryness and halos, were relatively rare.
Outcomes of Malignancy in Adults with Congenital Heart Disease: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Venkatesh Prashanth , Yan Kimberly , Bravo-Jaimes Katia , Yang Eric H. , Lluri Gentian
Published: September 2022

Background
Malignancy is known to be a major cause of death in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD). However, data regarding cardiovascular and cancer-related outcomes in ACHD are lacking.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study comprising patients with ACHD and malignancy. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Key Secondary outcomes included major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), cardiotoxicity events and consequent cancer therapy modifications.
Results
Sixty-eight patients with ACHD and a history of cancer were included in the study. 82% of patients had moderate or great ACHD anatomic complexity. Over a median follow-up of 5 years after cancer diagnosis, 16 (24%) patients died, with 69% of deaths being due to cancer. Univariate predictors of mortality were baseline arrhythmia (OR 3.82, 95% CI 1.15-12.67, p = 0.028), baseline diuretic therapy (OR 3.54, 95% CI 1.04-12.04, p = 0.044) and advanced cancer stage at diagnosis (OR 2.37, 95% CI 1.32-4.25, p = 0.004). MACCE occurred in 40 (59%) patients and was independently predicted by baseline diuretic requirement (OR 9.91, 95% CI 1.12 - 87.85, p = 0.039). A14% incidence of cardiotoxicity was seen; 3 patients needed modification and 1 patient needed temporary interruption of cancer therapy for 2 weeks.
Conclusions
Considerable mortality occurred in this cohort of patients with ACHD and cancer; most deaths were cancer-related. A high rate of MACCE was observed, yet rates of obligatory modification of cancer therapy due to cardiotoxicity were low.
VMD-GAM-NNCom model for AQI prediction of three cities in Southwest China
Authors: Wang Xinlu , Luo Lijiao , Li Min , Zhu Suling
Published: September 2022

Air pollution control is significant to promote the smooth implementation of air pollution treatment and reduce the related loss of life and property. Reliable and accurate prediction can provide data support and theoretical support for air pollution control. Therefore, it is of great significance to establish reliable air pollution prediction and early warning system. Moreover, air quality index (AQI) is a comprehensive environmental pollutant monitoring index. Therefore, this research proposes a nonlinear combination based on variational mode decomposition (VMD), generalized additive model (GAM) and neutral networks for AQI, namely VMD-GAM-NNCom model. The highlight of the proposed model is introducing three nonlinear neutral networks to efficiently combine the selected individual models, which makes up for the shortage of linear combinations. What’s more, the proposed model introduces GAM to efficiently integrate decomposition modes linearly or nonlinearly. From the prediction results, it can be concluded that the proposed model VMD-GAM-beetle antennae search (BAS)-Elman has higher prediction accuracy compared with the other five comparative models, and the corresponding prediction results of the proposed model have higher consistency with the original data. Taking Baoshan as an example, the mean of absolute relative percentage error (MAPE) value of VMD-GAM-BAS-Elman is less than 6%, and reduces by over 70% on average compared with other models. Therefore, the innovative model provides an efficient and reliable nonlinear combined technique for AQI forecasting.
Identification of Pyroptosis Genes in cervical cancer and construction of a prognostic model for pyroptosis-associated mRNA
Authors: Kang Haojing , Wu Yinying , Yan Yanli , Bai Shuheng , Li Rong , Feng Zhaode , Xuan Wang , Li Guangzu , Li Wenyang , Liu Wanyi , Wu Fang , Hu Fengyuan , Zhang Xiangxiang , Yang Yiping , Ren Juan
Published: September 2022

Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma(CESC) is one of the more common tumors in women worldwide and has a higher mortality rate. However, there is a paucity of information about specific biomarkers that assist in the diagnosis and prognosis of CESC. The development of a specific prognostic model is important if we are to improve treatment strategies. Pyroptosis is a form of programmed cell death, and its different elements are related to the occurrence, invasion and metastasis of tumors. However, the role of pyroptosis in CESC progression has not been clarified. The focus of this study is to use comprehensive bioinformatics to develop pyroptosis prognostic characteristics of CESC, so as to delineate the relationship among this characteristic, tumor microenvironment and immune response of patients. In combination with clinical characteristics, risk score is an independent predictor of OS in patients with CESC. Pyroptosis Genes(PRG) score was significantly correlated with immune score, immune infiltration, immune microenvironment, cancer stem cell (CSC) index, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity. These findings may improve our understanding of PRGs in CESC and provide new avenues for assessing prognosis and developing more effective immunotherapeutic strategies.
Acoustic metamaterials driven transdermal drug delivery for rapid and on-demand management of acute disease
Authors: Xu Junhua , Cai Hongwei , Wu Zhuhao , Tian Chunhui , Li Xiang , Ao Zheng , Niu Vivian , Xiao Xiao , Jiang Lei , Khodoun Marat , Rothenberg Marc , Mackie Ken , Chen Jun , Lee Luke , Guo Feng
Published: September 2022

Transdermal drug delivery provides convenient and pain-free self-administration for personalized therapy. However, challenges remain in treating acute disease largely due to their inability to timely administrate therapeutics and precisely regulate pharmacokinetics within a short time window. Here we report the development of active acoustic metamaterials driven transdermal drug delivery for rapid and on-demand management of the acute disease. Through the integration of active acoustic metamaterials, a compact therapeutic patch is integrated for penetration of skin stratum corneum and active percutaneous transport of therapeutics with precise control of dose and rate over time. Moreover, the patch device quantitatively regulates the dosage and release kinetics of therapeutics and achieves better delivery performance in vivo than through subcutaneous injection. As a proof-of-concept application, our method can reverse life-threatening acute allergic reactions in a mouse model of anaphylaxis via a multi-burst delivery of epinephrine, showing better efficacy than a fixed dosage injection of epinephrine as the current gold standard Epi-pen strategy. This innovative method may provide a promising means to manage the acute disease for personalized medicine.
Suppression of prostate cancer cell growth by mid-infrared rays
Authors: Shima Junko , Igarashi Seiji
Published: September 2022

Experiments using rubber/resin foam (RB) have already shown that far-infrared rays suppress the proliferation of cancer cells1. We will report as a follow up to these findings. When RB was used, the temperature of the culture solution increased by about 0.4°C. This time, with a focus on this temperature rise, a new heating plate was manufactured, and culture experiments were conducted without using RB. It was determined that the suppression of growth was because of heat transfer, not due to the special action of RB. The distribution of heat was calculated using Planck's formula, and it was speculated that mid-infrared rays around 4.8 µm are involved in the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation. Furthermore, irradiation with a 4.8 µm mid-infrared free electron laser confirmed that the ratio of α-helix to β-sheet changed, providing corroborative evidence for growth suppression.
Relative cluster entropy for power-law correlated sequences
Authors: Carbone Anna , Ponta Linda
Published: September 2022

We propose an information-theoretical measure, the relative cluster entropy \mathcal{D_C}[P\|Q]𝒟𝒞[P∥Q], to discriminate among cluster partitions characterised by probability distribution functions P and Q. The measure is illustrated with the clusters generated by pairs of fractional Brownian motions with Hurst exponents H_1H1 and H_2H2 respectively. For subdiffusive, normal and superdiffusive sequences, the relative entropy sensibly depends on the difference between H_1H1 and H_2H2. By using the minimum relative entropy principle, cluster sequences characterized by different correlation degrees are distinguished and the optimal Hurst exponent is selected. As a case study, real-world cluster partitions of market price series are compared to those obtained from fully uncorrelated sequences (simple Browniam motions) assumed as a model. The minimum relative cluster entropy yields optimal Hurst exponents H_1H1=0.55, H_1H1=0.57, and H_1H1=0.63 respectively for the prices of DJIA, S and P500, NASDAQ: a clear indication of non-markovianity. Finally, we derive the analytical expression of the relative cluster entropy and the outcomes are discussed for arbitrary pairs of power-laws probability distribution functions of continuous random variables.
An Ising model on a 3D honeycomb zigzag-ladder lattice: a solution to the ground-state problem
Authors: Dublenych Yuriy , Petrenko Oleg
Published: September 2022

A complex, seven-parameter ground-state problem for an Ising model on
a 3D honeycomb zigzag-ladder lattice, containing two types of magnetic
sites, is considered in the presence of an external field using the
method of basic rays and basic sets of cluster configurations. It is
shown that the geometrical frustration due to the presence of triangle
elements leads to the emergence of a large variety of magnetic phases,
the majority of which are highly degenerate. The obtained theoretical
results are used to elucidate the sequence of phase transitions in the
family of rare-earth oxides with a honeycomb zigzag-ladder lattice,
SrRE_\mathbf{2}2O_\mathbf{4}4
and BaRE_\mathbf{2}2O_\mathbf{4}4.
New phases predicted by our model and observed experimentally do not
appear in previously considered simpler models for noninteracting
zigzag-ladders.
Impact of e-government maturity on public servants’ job satisfaction
Authors: Waladali Emad , Rabaiah Abdelbaset
Published: September 2022

While most e-government literature focuses on citizen satisfaction, that of public servants is widely ignored. The purpose of this study is to test the impact of e-government maturity level on public servants’ job satisfaction. Factors shaping the maturity level of e-government were investigated as well as those contributing to government employees’ satisfaction. Government employees working at Palestinian ministries were the target group of this study. They were the closest to the strategic use of e-government facilities. A questionnaire was designed and distributed via e-mails to a random sample of 159 employees; the survey questionnaire was divided into three parts. A 5-point Likert scale was adopted in this study. SPSS v26 was used to test the study hypotheses. The results reveal a significant impact of e-government maturity on the job satisfaction of public servants (R2 = 0.386, p = 0.000). Moreover, all dimensions of e-government maturity have a positive impact on job satisfaction. The results show the impact of e-government maturity dimensions on job satisfaction as follows: internal efficiency (R2 = 0.254, p = 0.000), external efficiency (R2 = 0.343, p = 0.000), good governance (R2 = 0.364, p = 0.000), and leadership (R2 = 0.261, p = 0.000). The findings also show no differences in job satisfaction levels among public servants due to demographic characteristics.
Predictors and Facilitators of High Viral Load in HIV Positive Persons on Antiretroviral Treatment in the East Region of Cameroon
Authors: Ebua Athanasius Fang
Published: September 2022

Viral load (VL) determination is the standard to assess the effectiveness of Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART) in people living with HIV (PLWIV). According to Cameroon national ART guidelines, VL determination in PLHIV should be done after six months of starting ART and then every 12 months. Unsuppressed VL occurs when ARV’s fails to suppress viral load and is associated with decreased survival and increased risk of HIV transmission, morbidity, and mortality. A sequential and exploratory facility and community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 391 patients on first-line ART in public health facilities in the East region of Cameroon from January 2021 to January 2022. Structural questionnaires and a review of medical records were the data source of the study. SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis, and Chi-squared (χ2) tests to explore the associations between outcome variables and the independent variables. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors and facilitators of high viral load at 95% CI and P < 0.05 statistically significant level. Age, marital status, Occupation, food insecurity, switching regimen, and non-adherence were found to be the predictors of high viral load, while the distance from the clinic, medication side effects, substance use, poverty, missing clinical appointment or ARV doses, knowledge on ARV and health personnel attitudes were found to be facilitators. Unsuppressed viral load among PLWH in the East region of Cameroon is cause by predictors and facilitators. Therefore, need for targeted interventions for patients on ART who are at high risk of becoming virally unsuppressed. Keywords. Adherence, Anti-retroviral therapy, Enhanced adherence counselling (EAC), Suppressed, Unsuppressed, Viral load.
Factors Associated with the Uptake Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus Two Vaccination in Zambia: Case of Mongu District
Authors: Hamuleya Francis Andrea
Published: September 2022

Since the vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus two (SARS-CoV-2) became accessible in Zambia, there has been limited uptake. The study aimed to determine social cognitive aspects linked with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in Mongu. A descriptive quantitative Survey was conducted from December 2021 to April 2022. Cochrane single proportion formula was used to determined sample size of 369 respondents based on 60% herd immunity criterion. Stata version 14 was used to perform Chi square and binary logistic regression. Findings indicated that, vaccination level is still below average, and most non-vaccinated people were unwilling to be vaccinated because they “simply haven’t gotten around to it”. ‘Views on Covid-19 news’, ‘worrying about getting sick/a household member getting sick from Covid-19,” real financial effect of Covid-19 at personal level,’ ‘ages of household Members,’ marital status, religion, academic qualification, and ages of respondents were associated with SAR-CoV-2 vaccination. Social cognitive predictors of vaccination were 30-49-year-old household members and worry about household members being sick. Misconceptions about SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations prevent vaccination. Therefore, there is need scale-up sensitisation, and sensitisation messages should address the need to protect household members and especially having the most mobile age groups (30-49 years) to be vaccinated to reduce on community spread of the infection. Future studies should analyze the proportions of AstraZeneca’s one-dose recipients who did not return for the second dose and the willingness of the completely vaccinated to accept a booster shot. Keywords: Mongu, SARS-CoV-2, Social cognitive Theory, Vaccine, Uptake, Zambia.
Olive and Olive Oil Production the Democratic Party in The Period (1950 – 1960)
Authors: İNCE ERDOGAN Dilsen , BERBER BABALIK Banu
Published: September 2022

Tarih boyunca toplumların yaşamlarında bölgesel tarım ürünlerinin büyük önem taşıdığı görülmüştür. Türkiye’de sahip olduğu coğrafi konumun etkisi ve iklim özellikleriyle zeytin ve zeytinyağı üretiminde önemli bir potansiyele sahip olmuştur. Millî Mücadele sonrası yeni devletin kurulmasında bağımsız ekonomi anlayışı benimsenmiştir. Ekonomisi tarıma dayanan Türkiye’de Cumhuriyet dönemi ile zeytin tarımına önem verilmiştir. Zeytinciliği geliştirmek ve zeytin ağacı sayısını artırmak amacıyla yeni kanun ve düzenlemeler yapılmış, modern zeytincilik kursları düzenlenmiş ve bu kurslara yurtdışından zeytincilik alanında uzman kişiler getirilmiştir. 1950’de iktidara gelen Demokrat Parti (DP)’nin ekonomi politikalarında tarım büyük öneme sahip olmuştur. Bu çalışmada DP’nin 10 yıllık iktidarında büyük önem taşıyan ekonomi politikaları içinde zeytin tarımı ele alınmıştır.

1950-1960 yılları arasında Türkiye’de zeytin ve zeytinyağı üretimi, zeytinciliği geliştirmek için yapılan çalışmalar, bu çalışmaların sonuçları ve zeytin üretiminin Türkiye ekonomisine etkileri çalışmanın konusunu oluşturmaktadır. Zeytin üretimi ve üretimin ekonomiye etkilerinin sayısal verilerle desteklendiği çalışmada sayısal veriler konusunda dönemin TUİK verilerinden (Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu), Başbakanlık İstatistik Yıllıklarından, tarım ve ekonomi dergilerinden yararlanılmıştır. Ayrıca zeytin ile ilgili çıkarılan kanunlar, kanun hükmünde kararnameler ve resmi düzenlemeler ile ilgili olarak Başbakanlık Cumhuriyet Arşivi, Resmî Gazete, Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi Zabıt Ceridelerinden, Kanunlar ve Tutanak Dergilerinden yararlanılmıştır.