bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical analysis of heat transfer of hybrid nanofluid in a porous sinusoidal channel with magnetic field and an alternating heat flux
Authors: Sheikhpour Nejat , Mirabdolah Lavasani Arash , Salehi Gholamreza
Published: January 2023

Recently, a great amount of research was done on wavy conduits due to the importance of heat and flow transfer in wavy channels and conduits, and their special use in various industries. The improvement of heat transfer in these ducts attracted the attention of many researchers, and experimental and numerical studies are devoted. The effect of the presence of a porous medium and magnetic field on forced convection heat transfer and a nanofluid flow in a complex wave-shaped channel with a special boundary condition (Non-uniform with respect to location) was studied for the first time. For this purpose, the heat transfer of a nanofluid in a two-dimensional sinusoidal channel containing a porous medium in the attendance of a magnetic field was analyzed. First, the nanoparticles were optimized using the design of the experiment method, and then modeling was performed using selected optimal particles. To improve heat transfer in a sinusoidal channel, the factors like the injection of optimized nanoparticles, porous medium, and magnetic field usage were used. The equations were discretized using the Fluent software with a finite volume method. The validation of problem outcomes was done using experimental and numerical studies. Porous medium in four different Darcys (10−5, 10−4, 10−3, and 10−2), and applying magnetic fields in four different Hartman (0, 4, 7, and 10) were examined. The results show that the channel wave, and magnetic field intensity improved heat transfer. Furthermore, using a porous medium with high Darcy can increase the Nusselt number. Hence, in the same conditions (Re = 500, Ha = 10) with Darcy number increasing from 10−5 to 10−2, Nu becomes equal to 5.011. This proposed system is an industrial-utility system that can increase heat transfer efficiency.
Morphosedimentary and geoarchaeological records during the last 1400 years in the Ebro depression (NE Spain) and their paleoenvironmental interpretation
Authors: Peña-Monné José Luis , Sampietro-Vattuone María Marta , Picazo-Millán Jesús V , Longares-Aladrén Luis Alberto , Pérez-Lambán Fernando , Sancho-Marcén Carlos , Fanlo Javier
Published: January 2023

Most studies on the geomorphological evolution of the Holocene from the Ebro depression (NE Spain) are focused on the period up to the Roman Epoch (218 BC–476 AD) while some references to medieval (476 AD–15th century) deposits are also occasionally dated. This paper focuses on the establishment of aggradation units on the valley bottoms and slopes of the Ebro depression after 1400 BP, their origin, comparison with other areas, and relationship with global paleoenvironmental changes. These units were produced after the incision phase that marked the end of the large Holocene accumulation (unit H1) around 1400 BP (at the end of the Late Roman Epoch). Morphosedimentary records enable us to establish three aggradation units during the last 1400 years: unit H2 ( ca. 1400–650 cal BP); unit H3 – with two H3A subunits ( ca. 650–500 cal BP) and H3B ( ca. 500–320 cal BP); and the H4 unit (after 320 cal BP). These units are organized following five types of aggradation/incision arrangements with differing complexities. There are also connections among these units and two slope stages in the region. Finally, the genetic relationships between these units and global paleoenvironmental changes are shown (LALIA, MCA, and LIA) and related to anthropic activity. This contribution is the first detailed and systematic approach to the study of morphosedimentary units and sedimentary arrangements during the Recent Holocene in the Mediterranean area.
Legacy archaeology: Aboriginal subsistence response to Holocene environmental changes using faunal evidence from archaeological sites on the Lower Murray, South Australia
Authors: Allen Harry , Karstens Sarah , Littleton Judith
Published: January 2023

Ngaut Ngaut (Devon Downs) and Tungawa (Fromm’s Landing) 2 and 6 are located in the Gorge Section of the Lower Murray River. They were excavated more than 60 years ago. Unusually, they preserved fauna over the 6000 or 7000 years of occupation. Assessing this record, it is concluded that Aboriginal agents were responsible for the middens in these rockshelters. Following this, Ngaut Ngaut and the Tungawa sites are compared in terms of their dating, stratigraphy and changes in the fauna through time. While the majority of species are present throughout at all three sites, there are shifts in the number of animals in concert with Holocene environmental changes. After 3000 BP, the trend is to increased attention being given to resources from the riparian and river zones and away from the dryland Murray Plains. An increase in shellfish and the presence of crayfish gastroliths support this contention. Nearby Tartanga Island provides a record of Holocene sedimentary changes in the Murray River associated with altered sea level and flood regimes, particularly the deposition of the Monoman and Coonambidgal formations. The latter creating a landscape of highly productive swamps and backwaters. The information from these legacy excavations supports the conclusion that a shift in the locus of Aboriginal hunting and gathering activities accompanied mid- and late-Holocene environmental changes on the Lower Murray River.
Invasive spindle-cell rhabdomyosarcoma with osteolysis in a dog: case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Junchao , Gao Rui , Zhang Jing , Xu Rongyi , Jia Qianhan , Ma Ying , Lu Huijun , Zhao Kui , Gao Feng , He Wenqi
Published: January 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm derived from skeletal muscle, is relatively rare in both human and veterinary medicine. Here we report an unusual case of invasive spindle-cell RMS (SCRMS) with bone infiltration and pathologic fracture in a 3.5-y-old intact female Bulldog. Radiographically, a large, predominantly osteolytic mass in the tibia and fibula of the left hindlimb had features typical of a malignant primary bone tumor. Clinically, osteosarcoma was suspected, and the leg was amputated. Histologically, the mass was composed of loosely interwoven spindle-cell fascicles; tumor cells were fusiform with cigar-shaped nuclei and abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm. The neoplastic cells were strongly immunopositive for vimentin, muscle-specific actin, desmin, myogenin, and myoD1. Invasive SCRMS with osteolysis was diagnosed based on the histologic examination and immunohistochemical (IHC) stains. The dog was alive without any evidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis 18 mo post-surgery. RMS should be included in the differential diagnosis when osteolysis occurs; IHC staining confirmation is of great value for definitive diagnosis and treatment planning.
“I Have a Wish”: Anti-Asian Racism and Facing Challenges Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Asian International Graduate Students
Authors: Dong Fanghong , Hwang Yeji , Hodgson Nancy A.
Published: January 2023

Introduction:

Although Asian international graduate students (AIGS) were at risk for mental health problems during the pandemic, little is known about the experience of international students during COVID-19. This study aimed to examine the experiences of AIGS who lived in the United States during COVID-19.

Method:

This qualitative descriptive study included 22 participants from five large universities in Philadelphia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted during September and October 2020, and a thematic analysis was used for data analyses.

Results:

Three themes were found: (a) “We are left alone here”: Being an international student; (b) “Stay busy” and “Do something”: Being a graduate student; and (c) “I have a wish”: Seeking for support, perceived support, and preferred counseling services as a self-advocator.

Discussion:

Help is needed for AIGS to navigate uncertainties, provide proper coping skills, make efforts against anti-Asian racism, and provide culturally based mental health resources.
The Innovative Use of Technological Tools (the ABCs and Ps) to Help Adult Learners Decrease Transactional Distance and Increase Learning Presence
Authors: Howell Scott L. , Johnson Michael C. , Hansen Jana C.
Published: January 2023

One of the pedagogical benefits that emerged from the pandemic period for adult learners was that teachers, in addition to supporting institutions, were more willing to consider and introduce technological innovations to the learning experience. For 2 years, teachers and institutions had no choice. Unanticipatedly, some of these innovative strategies also engaged and empowered otherwise hesitant instructors and marginalized adult learners. This article briefly introduces categories of instructional technology tools that emerged from this period to help democratize adult learning—giving all adults opportunities to be heard, manage anxiety and introverted tendencies, to work with others, and to inform learning decisions for instructor and student alike, etc. These practices are briefly contextualized and referenced within the field using both Michael Moore’s Theory of Transactional Distance and Garrison, Anderson and Archer’s Community of Inquiry theoretical framework. The four categories of instructional technology tools featured in this article include: (1) Annotation (social) tools; (2) Backchanneling tools; (3) Collaboration tools; and (4) Polling (student response systems) tools.
Review of Dual Biologics in Specialty Pharmacy Practice
Authors: Quiroga Lauren C. , Sabourin Ashley A.
Published: January 2023

Objective:

To describe and review the published evidence on use of multiple biologics within specialty pharmacy practice.

Data Sources:

A search of PubMed and Embase was conducted from October 2021 through September 2022. Keywords included biologics for immune-mediated conditions along with the terms “dual,” “add-on,” and “combination.”

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

All human studies in the English language were considered. Published abstracts, case reports, case series, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were included.

Data Synthesis:

Although evidence is limited, there are published meta-analyses of combined biologic use within gastroenterology and rheumatology. There are also numerous case reports within dermatology. Clinical trials of dual biologics for severe rheumatologic conditions and inflammatory bowel disease are in progress. Existing evidence for use in pulmonology and allergy suggest dual biologic therapy can be safe and effective, but data are limited. Literature describing use of monoclonal antibodies for other overlapping conditions is lacking.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

This article reviews the evidence describing combination biologic use and outlines remaining knowledge gaps. It also describes the essential role that specialty pharmacists play in managing therapeutic mAbs.

Conclusions:

High-quality evidence describing combination biologic use is limited and long-term safety data are lacking. Pharmacists should utilize their specialized training to assess appropriateness of therapy, provide patient counseling and monitor for safety and efficacy.
A Retrospective Cohort Study of Clinical Features and Treatment Patterns With Ustekinumab in Patients With Crohn Disease Utilizing a Health Care Database in Japan
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Goh Choo Hua , Qiu Hong , Huang Kuan-Chih , Chung Hsingwen , Saadoun Carine
Published: January 2023

Background:

Biologics are used to treat moderate-to-severe Crohn disease (CD). In Japan, ustekinumab was approved for reimbursement for CD treatment in 2017. However, limited information describes utilization of ustekinumab in real-world settings.

Objective:

To describe treatment patterns and clinical outcomes of patients with CD treated with ustekinumab in Japan.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort drug utilization study was conducted using the Japan Medical Data Center employment insurance database. Patients with a diagnosis of CD who initiated treatment with ustekinumab ( International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision [ ICD-10] K50.x) from January 1, 2017, to September 30, 2020, were enrolled. Eligible patients were followed up until disenrollment or study end (September 30, 2020).

Results:

A total of 622 patients with CD initiated ustekinumab during the study period; 45.7% had no prior history of biologic use (bio-naive) and 54.3% had previously received ≥1 biologic (bio-experienced); 82.8% of patients received an induction dose of whom 97.5% received a dose within the recommended range (260-520 mg) and 90.8% of patients received their first maintenance dose within a 42- to 70-day interval. Median treatment duration was 14.8 months and 90.2% remained on ustekinumab at study end. Compared with the 12-month period prior to ustekinumab initiation, surgical procedures decreased by 88.0%, gastrointestinal complications by 64.6%, enteral nutrition requirements by 41.9%, and CD-related hospitalizations by 62.6% within 12 months after commencing ustekinumab.

Conclusions:

These first real-world data from Japan, where ustekinumab has been used longest for CD treatment, shows that a majority of patients initiated ustekinumab as per the recommended label. Indirect evidence of clinical impact could be relevant in other settings in Asia.
Percutaneous ecoguided endovascular lithotripsy to recruit failed-to-mature arteriovenous fistula due to completely calcified radial artery
Authors: Marco Taurisano , Andrea Mancini , Filomena D’elia
Published: January 2023

The first-choice vascular access for starting dialysis is autogenous distal forearm arteriovenous-fistula (AVF); the increasing demand to create more fistulas may lead to their creation in borderline vessels and, in this setting, the early failure (EF) and failure of maturation (FTM) remain the main issues. The size of vessels or preexisting stenotic lesions of artery or vein are no longer considered absolute exclusion criteria for the creation of distal AVF, but huge arterial calcification still represents an indication to create upper arm AVF. A novel approach to treat arterial calcifications is represented by intravascular lithotripsy (IVL). This technique could represent a valid option to save failed to mature AVF due to extended calcified artery. We describe a case of a male patient, 43 years old with middle forearm AVF failed to mature with a completely calcified radial artery, low brachial flow (Qa) and small efferent vein. We treated the patient AVF with less invasive, percutaneous, endovascular, eco-guided IVL on the entire radial artery. After the procedure was observed a rapid increase of Qa, with reduction of calcification in the arterial wall, increase of arterial caliper and flow. This procedure could represent a valid alternative to surgical upper-arm AVF creation in patient with functioning but failed to mature fistula due to spread artery calcification, with a rapid, less invasive procedure.
The shape of the cloud: Contesting date centre construction in North Holland
Authors: Rone Julia
Published: January 2023

The article analyses local contestation of data centres in the Dutch province of North Holland. I explore why and how local councillors and citizen groups mobilized against data centres and demanded democratization of decision-making processes about digital infrastructure. This analysis is used as a vantage point to problematize existing policy and academic narratives on digital sovereignty in Europe. I show, first, that most debates on digital sovereignty so far have overlooked the sub-national level, which is especially relevant for decision making on digital infrastructure. Second, I insist that what matters is not only where digital sovereignty lies, that is, who has the power to decide over digital infrastructural projects: for example, corporations, states, regions, or municipalities. What matters is also how power is exercised. Emphasizing the popular democratic dimension of sovereignty, I argue for a comprehensive democratization of digital sovereignty policies. Democratization in this context is conceived as a multimodal multi-level process, including parliaments, civil society and citizens at the national, regional and local levels alike. The shape of the cloud should be citizens’ to decide.
An AI-augmented multimodal application for sketching out conceptual design
Authors: Zhou Yifan , Park Hyoung-June
Published: January 2023

The goal of this paper is to develop an interactive web-based machine learning application to assist architects with multimodal inputs (sketches and textual information) for conceptual design. With different textual inputs, the application generates the architectural stylistic variations of a user’s initial sketch input as a design inspiration. A novel machine learning model for the multimodal input application is introduced and compared to others. The machine learning model is performed through procedural training with the content curation of training data (1) to control the fidelity of generated designs from the input and (2) to manage their diversity. The web-based interface is at its work in progress as a frontend of the proposed application for better user experience and future data collection. In this paper, the framework of the proposed interactive application is explained. Furthermore, the implementation of its prototype is demonstrated with various examples.
Machine learning using Stata/Python
Authors: Cerulli Giovanni
Published: January 2023

I present two related commands, r_ml_stata_cv and c_ml_stata_cv, for fitting popular machine learning methods in both a regression and a classification setting. Using the recent Stata/Python integration platform introduced in Stata 16, these commands provide hyperparameters’ optimal tuning via K-fold cross-validation using grid search. More specifically, they use the Python Scikitlearn application programming interface to carry out both cross-validation and outcome/label prediction.
power swgee: GEE-based power calculations in stepped wedge cluster randomized trials
Authors: Gallis John A. , Wang Xueqi , Rathouz Paul J. , Preisser John S. , Li Fan , Turner Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2023

Stepped wedge cluster randomized trials (SW-CRTs) are increasingly being used to evaluate interventions in medical, public health, educational, and social science contexts. With the longitudinal and crossover natures of an SW-CRT, complex analysis techniques are often needed, which makes appropriately powering SW-CRTs challenging. In this article, we introduce a newly developed SW-CRT power calculator embedded within the power command in Stata. The power calculator assumes a marginal model (that is, generalized estimating equations) for the primary analysis of SW-CRTs, for which other currently available SW-CRT power calculators may not be suitable. The command accommodates complete cross-sectional and closed-cohort designs and includes multilevel correlation structures appropriate for such designs. We discuss the methods and formulas underlying our SW-CRT calculator and provide illustrative examples of the use of power swgee. We provide suggestions about the choice of parameters in power swgee and conclude by discussing areas of future research that may improve the command.
portfolio: A command for conducting portfolio analysis in Stata
Authors: Zhu Hongbing , Yang Lihua
Published: January 2023

Portfolio analysis is widely used in empirical asset pricing to explore the cross-sectional relation between two or more variables. In this article, we introduce the methodology of portfolio analysis and describe a new command, portfolio, that provides a one-step solution for portfolio analysis. portfolio calculates the equal- or value-weighted returns with a t statistic for the portfolio and tests the significance of a long-short strategy in portfolios. portfolio also provides the Newey–West standard-error adjustment option for alleviating the impact of potential autocorrelation and heteroskedasticity in financial time series.
Speaking Stata: Automating axis labels: Nice numbers and transformed scales
Authors: Cox Nicholas J.
Published: January 2023

Two common problems with graph axis labels are to decide in advance on some “nice” numbers to use on one or both axes and to show particular labels on some transformed scale. In this column, I discuss the nicelabels and mylabels commands, which address these problems. The first command is new to Stata, and the second is a revision of a previously published command. I also survey the myticks command for tick placement. In all commands, the main output is a local macro in the calling program’s space, in the interest of promoting automation in do-files and programs.
Can Low-Level Ionizing Radiation Do Us Any Harm?
Authors: Janiak Marek K. , Waligórski Michael P. R.
Published: January 2023

The current system of radiological protection relies on the linear no-threshold (LNT) hypothesis of cancer risk due to humans being exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). Under this tenet, effects of low doses (i.e. of those not exceeding 100 mGy or 0.1 mGy/min. of X- or γ-rays for acute and chronic exposures, respectively) are evaluated by downward linear extrapolation from regions of higher doses and dose rates where harmful effects are actually observed. However, evidence accumulated over many years clearly indicates that exposure of humans to low doses of radiation does not cause any harm and often promotes health. In this review, we discuss results of some epidemiological analyses, clinical trials and controlled experimental animal studies. Epidemiological data indicate the presence of a threshold and departure from linearity at the lowest dose ranges. Experimental studies clearly demonstrate the qualitative difference between biological mechanisms and effects at low and at higher doses of IR. We also discuss the genesis and the likely reasons for the persistence of the LNT tenet, despite its scientific implausibility and deleterious social consequences. It is high time to replace the LNT paradigm by a scientifically based dose-effect relationship where realistic quantitative hormetic or threshold models are exploited.
Unspoiling Identity: An Intersectional Expansion of Stigma Response Strategies
Authors: Winder Terrell J. A.
Published: January 2023

Sociological research has documented the various strategies employed by members of stigmatized populations to mitigate the negative social effects of these identities in everyday life. Furthermore, social and political campaigns have called for efforts toward destigmatizing identities. However, we know much less about how these groups come to aim for destigmatization and how individuals navigate multiple stigmas simultaneously or intersectional stigmas. Drawing on four years of ethnographic data, I use the case of Black gay men to articulate a form of stigma response that prioritizes the “stigmatized” rather than attending to the smoothness of interactions with a potential stigmatizer. I illustrate how the confines of multiple forms of stigma can make existing stigma response techniques, like passing and covering, untenable. I offer the term, “unspoiling” to account for the ways that some members of stigmatized populations reject the Goffmanian notion that these identities would be perpetual marks of inferiority. In so doing, I articulate an intersectional understanding of (de)stigmatization processes by attending to groups that are overlooked in mainstream efforts to focus solely on either race or sexuality. These findings add to the growing literature of stigma management response techniques and challenge the conversation of larger group destigmatization processes. This work reveals the contested process of stigma negotiation as young Black gay men debate the appropriate strategies to combat stigma in their local communities. Ultimately, unspoiling is a strategy borne out of tense discussions about the (un)acceptability of passing or covering one’s sexual identity.
Education for the Marginalized: A Narrative of Public Sphere and NGOs at the Grassroots Gujarat of India
Authors: Patil Ravindra Ramesh
Published: January 2023

The Habermasian conceptualization of the public sphere as a bourgeoisie institution of private citizens emerged in eighteenth-century Europe as a ‘discursive space’ to deliberate on critical issues of the society. It is largely based on communitarian values to promote the common good and social change in the structure of the society. Apart from European society, such institutions have emerged in various countries including India. However, in the Indian context, the public sphere has been hegemonies by the dominant social groups, consequently the benefits of the common good too largely enjoyed by them, and therefore the representation of socioculturally excluded and marginalized has been neglected and subordinated by the dominant public sphere in the Indian society. It is in this context, the present paper tried to highlight the neglect of Dalit issues and the common good for Dalit by the dominant public sphere paved the way for the emergence of Dalit public sphere and civil society in Gujarat.
Assessment of fluid removal using ultrasound, bioimpedance and anthropometry in pediatric dialysis: a pilot study
Authors: Ehlayel Abdulla M. , Okunowo Oluwatimilehin , Dutt Mohini , Howarth Kathryn , Zemel Babette S. , Poznick Laura , Morgan Xenia , Denburg Michelle R. , Copelovitch Lawrence , Back Susan J. , Otero Hansel J. , Hartung Erum A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Fluid overload is associated with morbidity and mortality in children receiving dialysis. Accurate clinical assessment is difficult, and using deuterium oxide (D2O) to measure total body water (TBW) is impractical. We investigated the use of ultrasound (US), bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), and anthropometry to assess fluid removal in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

Participants completed US, BIS, and anthropometry immediately before and 1–2 h after HD for up to five sessions. US measured inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, lung B-lines, muscle elastography, and dermal thickness. BIS measured the volume of extracellular (ECF) and intracellular (ICF) fluid. Anthropometry included mid-upper arm, calf and ankle circumferences, and triceps skinfold thickness. D2O was performed once pre-HD. We assessed the change in study measures pre- versus post-HD, and the correlation of change in study measures with percent change in body weight (%∆BW). We also assessed the agreement between TBW measured by BIS and D2O.

Results

Eight participants aged 3.4–18.5 years were enrolled. Comparison of pre- and post-HD measures showed significant decrease in IVC diameters, lung B-lines, dermal thickness, BIS %ECF, mid-upper arm circumference, ankle, and calf circumference. Repeated measures correlation showed significant relationships between %∆BW and changes in BIS ECF (rrm =0.51, 95% CI 0.04, 0.80) and calf circumference (rrm=0.80, 95% CI 0.51, 0.92). BIS TBW correlated with D2O TBW but overestimated TBW by 2.2 L (95% LOA, -4.75 to 0.42).

Conclusion

BIS and calf circumference may be helpful to assess changes in fluid status in children receiving maintenance HD. IVC diameter, lung B-lines and dermal thickness are potential candidates for future studies.
Making visible the cost of informal caregivers’ time in Latin America: a case study for major cardiovascular, cancer and respiratory diseases in eight countries
Authors: Espinola Natalia , Pichon-Riviere Andrés , Casarini Agustín , Alcaraz Andrea , Bardach Ariel , Williams Caitlin , Rodriguez Cairoli Federico , Augustovski Federico , Palacios Alfredo
Published: January 2023

Background

Informal care is a key element of health care and well-being for society, yet it is scarcely visible and rarely studied in health economic evaluations. This study aims to estimate the time use and cost associated with informal care for cardiovascular diseases, pneumonia and ten different cancers in eight Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico and Peru).

Methods

We carried out an exhaustive literature review on informal caregivers’ time use, focusing on the selected diseases. We developed a survey for professional caregivers and conducted expert interviews to validate this data in the local context. We used an indirect estimate through the interpolation of the available data, for those cases in which we do not found reliable information. We used the proxy good method to estimate the monetary value of the use of time of informal care. National household surveys databases were processed to obtain the average wage per hour of a proxy of informal caregiver. Estimates were expressed in 2020 US dollars.

Results

The study estimated approximately 1,900 million hours of informal care annually and $ 4,300 million per year in average informal care time cost for these fifteen diseases and eight countries analyzed. Cardiovascular diseases accounted for an informal care burden that ranged from 374 to 555 h per year, while cancers varied from 512 to 1,825 h per year. The informal care time cost share on GDP varied from 0.26% (Mexico) to 1.38% (Brazil), with an average of 0.82% in the studied American countries. Informal care time cost represents between 16 and 44% of the total economic cost (direct medical and informal care cost) associated with health conditions.

Conclusions

The study shows that there is a significant informal care economic burden -frequently overlooked- in different chronic and acute diseases in Latin American countries; and highlights the relevance of including the economic value of informal care in economic evaluations of healthcare.
Molecular diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis in liquid-based Papanicolaou samples in Shiraz, southern Iran
Authors: Bahreini Mohammad Saleh , Sedghi Samaneh , Badalzadeh Yalda , Motazedian Mohammad Hossein , Shirani Manouchehr , Jahromi Sareh Sami , Teimouri Aref , Agholi Mahmoud , Asgari Qasem
Published: January 2023

Background

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection of the urinary and genital tract, caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. This study aimed to investigate the molecular diagnosis of T. vaginalis infection in liquid-based Papanicolaou samples in Shiraz, southern Iran.

Materials and methods

In this cross-sectional study, 534 liquid-based Papanicolaou samples were collected from women referring to the laboratory of Motahari Clinic of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2021. Genomic DNA were extracted from the samples and examined for evidence of T. vaginalis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using TVK3 and TVK7 specific primers.

Results

The mean age of participants was 39.28 ± 9.89 with a maximum age of 65 and a minimum age of 19 years. T. vaginalis DNA fragments were detected in 4.86% (26/534) of the cases. There was significantly higher prevalence in the age groups of 21 to 30 and 41 to 50 years (46.15%, p = 0.001 and 38.46%, p = 0.015, respectively). Furthermore, the results showed an association between a history of foamy discharge and Trichomonas positivity (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

T. vaginalis infection is common in liquid-based Papanicolaou samples of women who attended regular health check-ups in the study area. Screening for trichomoniasis in populations, particularly if using highly sensitive methods such as PCR, may lead to increased detection and treatment.
Chronic pain conditions and risk of suicidal behavior: a 10-year longitudinal co-twin control study
Authors: Chen C. , Pettersson E. , Summit A. G. , Boersma K. , Chang Z. , Kuja-Halkola R. , Lichtenstein P. , Quinn P. D.
Published: January 2023

Background

Understanding the relationship between chronic pain conditions and suicidal behavior—suicide attempt, other intentional self-harm, and death by suicide—is imperative for suicide prevention efforts. Although chronic pain conditions are associated with suicidal behaviors, these associations might be attributed to unmeasured confounding or mediated via pain comorbidity.

Methods

We linked a population-based Swedish twin study (N=17,148 twins) with 10 years of longitudinal, nationwide records of suicidal behavior from health and mortality registers through 2016. To investigate whether pain comorbidity versus specific pain conditions were more important for later suicidal behavior, we modeled a general factor of pain and two independent specific pain factors (measuring pain-related somatic symptoms and neck-shoulder pain, respectively) based on 9 self-reported chronic pain conditions. To examine whether the pain-suicidal behavior associations were attributable to familial confounding, we applied a co-twin control model.

Results

Individuals scoring one standard deviation above the mean on the general pain factor had a 51% higher risk of experiencing suicidal behavior (odds ratio (OR), 1.51; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.34–1.72). The specific factor of somatic pain was also associated with increased risk for suicidal behavior (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.45–2.22]). However, after adjustment for familial confounding, the associations were greatly attenuated and not statistically significant within monozygotic twin pairs (general pain factor OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.59–1.33; somatic pain factor OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.49–2.11)

Conclusion

Clinicians might benefit from measuring not only specific types of pain, but also pain comorbidity; however, treating pain might not necessarily reduce future suicidal behavior, as the associations appeared attributable to familial confounding.
Use of almitrine in spontaneously breathing patients with COVID-19 treated with high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy and with persistent hypoxemia
Authors: Saccheri Clément , Morand Lucas , Juston Marie , Doyen Denis , Hyvernat Hervé , Lombardi Romain , Devanlay Raphaël , Panicucci Émilie , Dellamonica Jean , Jozwiak Mathieu
Published: January 2023

Background

Almitrine, a selective pulmonary vasoconstrictor in hypoxic area, improves oxygenation in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 but its effects in spontaneously breathing patients with COVID-19 remain to be determined.

Methods

We prospectively studied the effects of almitrine (16 µg/kg/min over 30 min followed by continuous administration in responders only) in 62 patients (66% of male, 63 [53–69] years old) with COVID-19 treated with high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNO) and with persistent hypoxemia, defined as a PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 100 with FiO2 > 80% after a single awake prone positioning session. Patients with an increase in PaO2/FiO2 ratio > 20% were considered as responders.

Results

Overall, almitrine increased the PaO2/FiO2 ratio by 50% (p < 0.01), decreased the partial arterial pressure of carbon dioxide by 7% (p = 0.01) whereas the respiratory rate remained unchanged and 46 (74%) patients were responders. No patient experienced right ventricular dysfunction or acute cor pulmonale. The proportion of responders was similar regardless of the CT-Scan radiological pattern: 71% for the pattern with predominant ground-glass opacities and 76% for the pattern with predominant consolidations (p = 0.65). Responders had lower intubation rate (33 vs. 88%, p < 0.01), higher ventilator-free days at 28-day (28 [20–28 ] vs. 19 [2–24] days, p < 0.01) and shorter ICU length of stay (5 [3–10] vs.12 [7–30] days, p < 0.01) than non-responders.

Conclusions

Almitrine could be an interesting therapy in spontaneously breathing patients with COVID-19 treated with HFNO and with persistent hypoxemia, given its effects on oxygenation without serious adverse effects regardless of the CT-Scan pattern, and potentially on intubation rate. These preliminary results need to be confirmed by further randomized studies.
Detection of human annexin A1 as the novel N-terminal tag for separation and purification handle
Authors: He Xiaomei , Zhang Shuncheng , Dang Dongya , Lin Tingting , Ge Yuanyuan , Chen Xiaofeng , Fan Jun
Published: January 2023

Background

Several fusion tags for separation handle have been developed, but the fused tag for simply and cheaply separating the target protein is still lacking.

Results

Separation conditions for the human annexin A1 (hanA1) tagged emerald green fluorescent protein (EmGFP) in Escherichia coli were optimized via precipitation with calcium chloride (CaCl2) and resolubilization with ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA-Na2). The HanA1-EmGFP absorbing with other three affinity matrix was detected, only it was strongly bound to heparin Sepharose. The separation efficiency of the HanA1-EmGFP was comparable with purification efficiency of the His6-tagged HanA1-EmGFP via metal ion affinity chromatography. Three fluorescent proteins for the EmGFP, mCherry red fluorescent protein and flavin-binding cyan-green fluorescent protein LOV from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were used for naked-eye detection of the separation and purification processes, and two colored proteins including a red protein for a Vitreoscilla hemoglobin (Vhb), and a brown protein for maize sirohydrochlorin ferrochelatase (mSF) were used for visualizing the separation process. The added EDTA-Na2 disrupted the Fe–S cluster in the mSF, but it showed little impact on heme in Vhb.

Conclusions

The selected five colored proteins were efficient for detecting the applicability of the highly selective hanA1 for fusion separation and purification handle. The fused hanA1 tag will be potentially used for simple and cheap affinity separation of the target proteins in industry and diagnosis.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and adherence to Mediterranean diet in an adult population: the Mediterranean diet index as a pollution level index
Authors: García Silvia , Bouzas Cristina , Mateos David , Pastor Rosario , Álvarez Laura , Rubín María , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Corella Dolores , Goday Albert , Martínez J. Alfredo , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M. , Wärnberg Julia , Vioque Jesús , Romaguera Dora , Lopez-Miranda José , Estruch Ramon , Tinahones Francisco J. , Lapetra José , Serra-Majem Lluís , Riquelme-Gallego Blanca , Pintó Xavier , Gaforio José J. , Matía Pilar , Vidal Josep , Vázquez Clotilde , Daimiel Lidia , Ros Emilio , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Guillem-Saiz Patricia , Nishi Stephanie , Cabanes Robert , Abete Itziar , Goicolea-Güemez Leire , Gómez-Gracia Enrique , Signes-Pastor Antonio José , Colom Antoni , García-Ríos Antonio , Castro-Barquero Sara , Fernández-García Jose C. , Santos-Lozano José Manuel , Vázquez Zenaida , Sorlí José V. , Pascual Maria , Castañer Olga , Zulet Maria Angeles , Vaquero-Luna Jessica , Basterra-Gortari F. Javier , Babio Nancy , Ciurana Ramon , Martín-Sánchez Vicente , Tur Josep A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Research related to sustainable diets is is highly relevant to provide better understanding of the impact of dietary intake on the health and the environment.

Aim

To assess the association between the adherence to an energy-restricted Mediterranean diet and the amount of CO2 emitted in an older adult population.

Design and population

Using a cross-sectional design, the association between the adherence to an energy-reduced Mediterranean Diet (erMedDiet) score and dietary CO2 emissions in 6646 participants was assessed.

Methods

Food intake and adherence to the erMedDiet was assessed using validated food frequency questionnaire and 17-item Mediterranean questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics were documented. Environmental impact was calculated through greenhouse gas emissions estimations, specifically CO2 emissions of each participant diet per day, using a European database. Participants were distributed in quartiles according to their estimated CO2 emissions expressed in kg/day: Q1 (≤2.01 kg CO2), Q2 (2.02-2.34 kg CO2), Q3 (2.35-2.79 kg CO2) and Q4 (≥2.80 kg CO2).

Results

More men than women induced higher dietary levels of CO2 emissions. Participants reporting higher consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole cereals, preferring white meat, and having less consumption of red meat were mostly emitting less kg of CO2 through diet. Participants with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet showed lower odds for dietary CO2 emissions: Q2 (OR 0.87; 95%CI: 0.76-1.00), Q3 (OR 0.69; 95%CI: 0.69-0.79) and Q4 (OR 0.48; 95%CI: 0.42-0.55) vs Q1 (reference).

Conclusions

The Mediterranean diet can be environmentally protective since the higher the adherence to the Mediterranean diet, the lower total dietary CO2 emissions. Mediterranean Diet index may be used as a pollution level index.
mTORC2: a multifaceted regulator of autophagy
Authors: Sun Yanan , Wang Huihui , Qu Taiqi , Luo Junjie , An Peng , Ren Fazheng , Luo Yongting , Li Yixuan
Published: January 2023

Autophagy is a multi-step catabolic process that delivers cellular components to lysosomes for degradation and recycling. The dysregulation of this precisely controlled process disrupts cellular homeostasis and leads to many pathophysiological conditions. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a central nutrient sensor that integrates growth signals with anabolism to fulfil biosynthetic and bioenergetic requirements. mTOR nucleates two distinct evolutionarily conserved complexes (mTORC1 and mTORC2). However, only mTORC1 is acutely inhibited by rapamycin. Consequently, mTORC1 is a well characterized regulator of autophagy. While less is known about mTORC2, the availability of acute small molecule inhibitors and multiple genetic models has led to increased understanding about the role of mTORC2 in autophagy. Emerging evidence suggests that the regulation of mTORC2 in autophagy is mainly through its downstream effector proteins, and is variable under different conditions and cellular contexts. Here, we review recent advances that describe a role for mTORC2 in this catabolic process, and propose that mTORC2 could be a potential clinical target for the treatment of autophagy-related diseases.

Graphical abstract
Computed tomography-detected extramural venous invasion-related gene signature: a potential negative biomarker of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Yang Hao , Gou Xinyi , Feng Caizhen , Zhang Yinli , Chai Fan , Hong Nan , Ye Yingjiang , Wang Yi , Gao Bo , Cheng Jin
Published: January 2023

Background

To investigate the association between computed tomography (CT)-detected extramural venous invasion (EMVI)-related genes and immunotherapy resistance and immune escape in patients with gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

Thirteen patients with pathologically proven locally advanced GC who had undergone preoperative abdominal contrast-enhanced CT and radical resection surgery were included in this study. Transcriptome sequencing was multidetector performed on the cancerous tissue obtained during surgery, and EMVI-related genes (P value for association < 0.001) were selected. A single-sample gene set enrichment analysis algorithm was also used to divide all GC samples (n = 377) in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database into high and low EMVI-immune related groups based on immune-related differential genes. Cluster analysis was used to classify EMVI-immune-related genotypes, and survival among patients was validated in TCGA and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohorts. The EMVI scores were calculated using principal component analysis (PCA), and GC samples were divided into high and low EMVI score groups. Microsatellite instability (MSI) status, tumor mutation burden (TMB), response rate to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), immune escape were compared between the high and low EMVI score groups. Hub gene of the model in pan-cancer analysis was also performed.

Results

There were 17 EMVI-immune-related genes used for cluster analysis. PCA identified 8 genes (PCH17, SEMA6B, GJA4, CD34, ACVRL1, SOX17, CXCL12, DYSF) that were used to calculate EMVI scores. High EMVI score groups had lower MSI, TMB and response rate of ICIs, status but higher immune escape status. Among the 8 genes used for EMVI scores, CXCL12 and SOX17 were at the core of the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and had a higher priority in pan-cancer analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the expression of CXCL12 and SOX17 was significantly higher in CT-detected EMVI-positive samples than in EMVI-negative samples (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

A CT-detected EMVI gene signature could be a potential negative biomarker for ICIs treatment, as the signature is negatively correlated with TMB, and MSI, resulting in poorer prognosis.
Edible insect biodiversity and anthropo-entomophagy practices in Kalehe and Idjwi territories, D.R. Congo
Authors: Ishara Jackson , Cokola Marcellin C. , Buzera Ariel , Mmari Mercy , Bugeme David , Niassy Saliou , Katcho Karume , Kinyuru John
Published: January 2023

Background

Located in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (South-Kivu), Kalehe and Idjwi are two relatively unexplored territories with little to no research on edible insects even though anthropo-entomophagy practice is widespread. This study therefore aimed at exploring the biodiversity, perception, consumption, availability, host plants, harvesting techniques, and processing techniques of edible insects.

Methods

Data were collected through a field survey using three techniques, namely structured interviews, direct observations, and insect collection and taxonomy. A total of 260 respondents, 130 in each territory, were interviewed. The field survey focused on inventorying commonly edible insects as well as recording consumer preferences, preference factors, seasonal availability, host plants, harvesting techniques, and processing and preservation methods. Samples for taxonomic characterization were preserved in 70% alcohol.

Results

Nine edible insects, namely Ruspolia differens Serville 1838, Gryllotalpa Africana Palisot de Beauvois 1805, Locusta migratoria Linnaeus 1758, Macrotermes subhyalinus Rambur 1842, Gnathocera trivittata Swederus 1787, Rhynchophorus phoenicis Fabricius 1801, Vespula spp. Linnaeus 1758, Apis mellifera Linnaeus 1758, and Imbrasia oyemensis Rougeot 1955, were recorded as being consumed either as larvae, pupae, and adults. Ruspolia differens and M. subhyalinus were reported as the most preferred by consumers in the studied territories. A scatter plot of matrices and Pearson's correlations showed a negative correlation between preference based on taste, size, and shape, as well as perceived nutritional value. Their seasonal availability differs from one species to another and correlated with host plants availability. Harvesting techniques and processing and preservation methods depend on species, local knowledge, and practices.

Conclusion

The huge edible insect diversity observed in Kalehe and Idjwi is evidence of anthropo-entomophagy practices in the area. In addition to being an important delicacy and traditional foods, edible insects can contribute to food, environmental, and financial security through local business opportunities. Households can rely on edible insects to meet their nutritional needs instead of conventional livestock. Indigenous practices and technologies used for harvesting, processing, and preserving edible insects must be improved to meet international standards to increase the market and capitalize on the economic potential of edible insects.