bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Internal Control System and Spirituality on Fraud Prevention in Village Fund Management
Authors: Budiarto Dekeng Setyo , Isnaeni Rochmatul
Published: April 2022

This study examines whether the internal control system, spirituality, and community participation prevent fraud in managing village funds.This study uses a survey method by distributing questionnaires offline. The objects used are 17 villages that receive village funds in Nusawungu District, Cilacap Regency. The number of respondents in the study was 85 village officials. Hypothesis testing using a structural equation model.The results showed that the internal control system and spirituality affected fraud prevention. Furthermore, fraud prevention involves the success of village fund management. However, community participation does not affect fraud prevention.This study was limited to one area with small number of sample, so the results may not be generalizable.Several previous research findings tested the internal control system, spirituality and community participation on the successful management of village funds partially. This research builds on previous findings with the structural method.
Upper Cretaceous and Cenozoic Stratigraphy of the Gydan Peninsula
Authors: Marinov V.A. , Kurchatova A.N. , Gnibidenko Z.N. , Kuzmina O.B. , Potapova E.A. , Rogov V.V. , Khamzin R.B.
Published: April 2022

—The post-Cenomanian sedimentary sequence of the East Messo-Yakha oil and gas field in the southern Gydan Peninsula comprises twelve lithological units (beds) correlated to Upper Cretaceous, Paleogene, and Quaternary regional stratigraphic stages and formations. The facies of the sedimentary units are constrained from lithology and microfossils. The stratigraphic division is based on bio-stratigraphy (fauna and spore-pollen assemblages), paleomagnetism, and geochronology (quartz and feldspar grains dated by optically stimulated luminescence). The deposition record is interrupted by six large stratigraphic unconformities. The obtained data provide new insights into the Late Cretaceous, Paleogene, and Quaternary paleogeography of the area.
Automated Well Models Improve PCP Surveillance and Optimization
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: April 2022

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 207290, “Intelligent Operating Envelope Integrated With Automated Well Models Improves Assetwide Progressing-Cavity-Pump Surveillance and Optimization,” by Mohammed Al Sawafi and Antonio Andrade, Petroleum Development Oman, and Nitish Kumar, Weatherford, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

The operator has completed a project in which the progressing-cavity-pump (PCP) well-modeling process is automated. Models are built and sustained automatically in a well-management system (WMS) for all active PCP wells, with a major effect on day-to-day operational activities. The complete paper discusses use of physics-based well models from the WMS to automatically update operating envelopes (OE), identify daily oil-gain potential, and enable real-time PCP performance through a well-management-visualization system (WMVS).

Introduction

PCPs have gained popularity in recent years and, thus, have increased their footprint within the operator’s assets. At the time of writing, PCP wells contribute 19% of the operator’s net oil production, with a minimal water-cut rate per well in comparison with all other artificial-lift wells. The number of PCPs has almost doubled since the inception of an exception-based-surveillance (EBS) system in 2015, and the effort in configuring and managing EBS alerts had become more challenging, with each engineer handling an average of 30 EBS alerts per week.

In 2018, the operator’s PCP team completed a Lean project for sustainable PCP well modeling by automating the complete process in the WMS (a nodal-analysis-based real-time application) and delivering 100% real-time models for all active PCP wells. This was achieved by building and integrating the operator’s corporate database for PCP wells with the WMS. The system was developed for performing PCP well modeling by collecting well information automatically from various corporate databases such as an artificial-lift database, a subsurface database, a production database, and reservoir and pressure/volume/temperature databases, among others (Fig. 1).
Thermochemical Fluid Used in Field Application of Sandstone Stimulation
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: April 2022

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 207702, “Novel Sandstone Stimulation Using Thermochemical Fluid: Successful Field Application,” by Amjed Mohammed Hassan, SPE, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals; Ayman Raja Al-Nakhli, SPE, Saudi Aramco; and Mohamed Ahmed Mahmoud, SPE, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Sandstone acidizing is implemented to remove damage from the near-wellbore region. Different techniques are used to remove the formation damage and improve reservoir productivity. This paper presents a novel sandstone stimulation technique using thermochemical fluids. The used chemicals are not reactive at surface conditions and react only at the downhole conditions. The reservoir temperature or pH controller can be used to activate the chemical reaction. A successful field application of the proposed method is reported in the complete paper.

Background

The literature indicates that strong acids [such as hydrofluoric acid (HF)] can create concerns not only from the reservoir-formation but also from the environmental point of view. HF can lead to severe corrosion downhole and for the surface facility. However, developing a new technique of generating acids inside the reservoir can minimize the negative effects of acid injection significantly. Several approaches can be used for generating acids within the formation of interest, such as capsulation or in-situ acid generation. Different chemicals can be injected to react at downhole conditions to produce acids such as HF. The reservoir temperature or triggering agent can be used to activate the chemical reaction.

In this study, the acid foam will be generated in situ in the reservoir formation for the purpose of sandstone stimulation using thermochemical fluids. Different techniques were used to assess the efficiency of the proposed technique. A compatibility study, coreflooding, permeability measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were performed. Also, the treatment was applied in the field successfully. The in-situ generation of the foam acid can improve well injectivity, eliminate risks associated with environmental concerns, and mitigate corrosion issues.
Reducing Rig Days & Optimizing Overall Drilling Process by Implementing Managed Pressure Drilling Technique in Unconventional Reservoir Field
Authors: Muhammad Muhammad Jamal Uddin , Shaarawi Amjad , Iturrios Carlos , Kadadha Abdallah
Published: April 2022

Recently, the MPD Constant bottom hole pressure (CBHP) technique was successfully implemented by Saudi Aramco to drill and complete gas wells through a new exploration unconventional drilling field with low permeable high hydrocarbon sandstone formation. While drilling this formation using conventional drilling and completion methods, several challenges were encountered on a regular basis, such as differential sticking, total lost circulation with high hydrocarbon gas % at the same time leading to complicated well control situations.

The approach of ‘Prevention is always better than cure’ was adopted by Saudi Aramco, since MPD prevents/mitigates a lot of hazards before they actually happen. This publication summarizes the details of how the MPD CBHP technique, early kick detection system & advanced gas detection & control system made it possible to efficiently and successfully execute the drilling process safely, in MPD CBHP mode. It was proved that real time monitoring and instant reactions are necessary to be able to adjust the BHP to keep the well under control throughout the drilling phase.

This paper highlights a few milestones achieved during a MPD well recently drilled in the unconventional drilling campaign field.

Hence MPD enabled to drill the un-drillable wells without any NPT for well control situations with the value added benefit of better ROP at the same time.
Oblique Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion at L2-L5: Proposal of a New CT-based Preoperative Assessment to Minimize Risks
Authors: Quillo-Olvera Javier , Kim Jin-Sung , Quillo-Olvera Diego , Quillo-Reséndiz Javier , Barrera-Arreola Michelle
Published: April 2022

Objective: Oblique anterior to psoas (ATP) lumbar fusion is associated with advantages such as sufficient indirect decompression and restoration of lordosis. However, the ATP approach risks damaging the vascular elements anterior to the spine, and it requires a complicated left oblique surgical corridor that puts the contralateral neural elements at risk. Therefore, a thorough preoperative assessment of the location of entry into the disc space, a feasible trajectory to complete the intervertebral space procedure, and the possible retraction of the psoas muscle under these conditions are considered in this article.Methods: From January 2019 to January 2020, 160 lumbar CT scans were evaluated. Only 124 images from the L2-L3, L3-L4, and L4-L5 levels met the inclusion criteria. The length of the anterior vertebral line (AVL) and the middle-third of the disc in the anteroposterior axis were measured to localize the entry point (EP). The distance between the anterior arterial vessel (AV) and the EP was also measured. The trajectory commonly used to set the surgical instruments into the disc space was called α, and a new proposed trajectory termed β was calculated. The psoas cross-sectional area anterior to the β angle trajectory was measured to determine any possible retraction using this parameter. Results: The AVL-EP distances were L2-L3 11.49±0.89 mm, L3-L4 11.54±0.88 mm, and L4-L5 11.57±0.87 mm. The AV-EP lengths were 17.64±5.62 mm, 19.36±5.49 mm, and 16.48±6.47 mm at L2-L3, L3-L4, and L4-L5, respectively. The average α and β trajectory angles reported were 39.91º and 14.48º, respectively. Psoas muscle retraction was primarily noted at the L4-L5 level. Conclusion: This article’s proposed parameters represent a routine preoperative safety assessment in patients previously selected for oblique ATP lumbar fusion.
Human embryonic organoids to recapitulate periodic somitogenesis in vitro
Authors: Sanaki-Matsumiya Marina , Ebisuya Miki
Published: April 2022

Somites are epithelial structures that are periodically formed on both sides of the neural tube during vertebrate embryogenesis. Here we describe a protocol to generate human embryonic organoids, somitoids, that recapitulate periodic somitogenesis from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in one week (Sanaki-Matsumiya et al., 2022). Somitoids display the oscillations and waves of the segmentation clock, and the presomitic mesoderm (PSM) undergoes epithelialization and forms pairs of somite-like structures according to the segmentation clock.
Standardized Measure for Performance Assessment of Athletes in The CrossFit Open: Theoretical Structuring and Item Response Theory
Authors: Fernandes Rafael da Silva , Biffe Bruna Gabriele , Louzada Mário Jefferson Quirino , Bornia Antônio Cézar , de Andrade Dalton Francisco
Published: April 2022

In its competitive form, CrossFit® intends on assessing the performance of athletes in a wide variety of aspects that determine their conditioning. CrossFit Games is an official competition and intends to recognize the best conditioned athlete in the world to each class. Thus, measuring an athlete’s Physical Conditioning is, in a sense, assigning a set of performance outputs that can determine the efficiency and efficacy of the athlete, discriminating the performance of one or more athletes. Since the scores obtained by the athletes in the various workouts are directly identifiable, the conditioning can be seen through the performance in a competition, it is, therefore, a result of the interpretation and scope of the workouts in measuring the performance. This work analyzed data form “CrossFit Open” and has as an objective to propose a new theoretical arrangement to the sport discipline while being of the Item Response Theory which is capable of providing data such as, discriminatory capacity and difficulty level of the workouts, as well as, an assessment of the competition. In other words, intends to describe the probability of an athlete performing a workout and obtaining a score, given his/her physical conditioning. Analysis of the main indications that refer to a good quality of the measurement tool indicates it is a high quality competition. Lastly, this work accomplished both objectives proposed, methodological as well as practical, and recognizes the limitations derived from the reduced amount of qualitative data on the topic and the little use of applied probability models.
Outcome prediction for patients assessed by the medical emergency team: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Adielsson Anna , Danielsson Christian , Forkman Pontus , Karlsson Thomas , Pettersson Linda , Herlitz Johan , Lundin Stefan
Published: April 2022

Background: Medical emergency teams (METs) have been implemented to reduce hospital mortality by the early recognition and treatment of potentially life-threatening conditions. The objective of this study was to establish a clinically useful association between clinical variables and mortality risk, among patients assessed by the MET, and further to design an easy to use risk score for prediction of death within 30 days. Methods: Observational retrospective register study in a tertiary university hospital in Sweden, comprising 2,601 patients, assessed by the MET from 2010 to 2015. Patient registry data at the time of MET assessment was analysed from an epidemiological perspective, using univariable and multivariable analyses with death within 30 days as endpoint. Identified factors independently associated with mortality were then used to develop a prognostic risk score for mortality. Results: The overall 30-day mortality was high (29.0%). We identified thirteen factors independently associated with 30-day mortality concerning; age, type of ward for admittance, vital parameters, biomarkers, previous medical history and acute medical condition. A MET risk score for mortality based on the impact of these individual thirteen factors in the model yielded a median (range) AUC of 0.780 (0.774-0.785) with good calibration. When corrected for optimism by internal validation, the score yielded a median (range) AUC of 0.768 (0.762-0.773). Conclusions: Among clinical variables available at the time of MET assessment, thirteen factors were found to be independently associated with 30-day mortality. By applying a simple risk scoring system based on these individual factors, patients at higher risk of dying within 30 days after the MET assessment may be identified and treated earlier in the process. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
CTGF promotes cementogenesis and cementum repair via Cx43/β-catenin axis
Authors: wu Zuping , HE yuying , chen sirui , Zhu Li , Wang Jiahe , Zhang Demao , Xie Jing , Zou Shujuan , Zhou Chenchen
Published: April 2022

Background: Orthodontic tooth movement always induces cementum resorption inevitably, which is an urgent problem for orthodontists to confront. Human Periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) possess multidirectional differentiation ability. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is an important extracellular matrix proteins for bone homeostasis and cell differentiation. The purpose is to explore the role of CTGF in cementum repair and cementogenesis, and to elucidate its underlying mechanism.Methods: The cementum defect model was established by the gravity tooth movement, and the cementum repair effect of CTGF was observed by Micro CT, HE staining and immunohistochemical staining. RT-qPCR, Western bolt (WB), alizarin red and ALP activity experiments verified the mineralization ability of hPDLSCs stimulated by CTGF. In vivo and in vitro experiments, the expression of Cx43 in periodontal ligament cells was detected after CTGF stimulation by WB and immunofluorescence (IF) experiments. Subsequently, the mineralization ability of hPDLSCs were observed after the application of small interfering RNA Si-Cx43 and CTGF. Additionally, the co-intervention of small interfering RNA Si-CTGF and Cx43 agonist ARAT on hPDLSCs was applied to deepen the mechanism. Next, WB, IF experiments and co-immunoprecipitation were applied to confirm whether CTGF triggered Cx43/β-catenin axis to regulate cementoblast differentiation of hPDLSCs.Results: Local oral injection of CTGF to the cementum defects in vivo facilitated cementum repair. CTGF facilitated the cementogenesis of hPDLSCs in concentration-dependent manners. Cx43 acted as a CTGF downstream effector protein to regulate cementoblast differentiation. Si-Cx43 diluted CTGF-induced cementoblast differentiation. Cx43 agonists ATRA restored the low differentiation capacity induced by Si-CTGF. Further mechanistic studies showed that CTGF triggered the activation of β-catenin in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, colocalization analysis by IF and co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated that Cx43 interacted with β-catenin at the cell-cell connection. Si-Cx43 attenuated the enormous expression of β-catenin induced by CTGF. Cx43 agonists reversed the Si-CTGF-induced inhibition of β-catenin. IF demonstrated that the nuclear importation of β-catenin is related to the immense expression of Cx43 at cell-cell junctions. Conclusions: Taken together, these data demonstrated that CTGF promoted cementum repair and cementogenesis through activation of the Cx43/β-catenin signaling axis.
Educational needs in the management of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis: results of a US-based multispecialty case survey
Authors: Stacy Sylvie , Belcher Emily , Salinas Gregory
Published: April 2022

BackgroundGiven that the incidence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has been increasing, it is crucial that physicians are able to identify EoE, begin appropriate treatment, adjust treatment as needed, and work with patients to ensure adherence.AimsThe purpose of this study was to understand physician practice patterns and perceptions relating to EoE management.MethodsA patient case-based survey was developed to investigate physician practices related to the management of EoE. It was distributed to primary care physicians, allergists, gastroenterologists, and emergency physicians in January 2021.ResultsWhen respondents (n = 652) were presented a patient with newly diagnosed EoE who had trialed a proton pump inhibitor, only about half would begin combination pharmacotherapy and dietary therapy. Of those beginning pharmacotherapy, 75% would recommend a topical glucocorticoid and 68% would continue a PPI. There was no consensus regarding specific recommendations for dietary therapy. In refractory EoE, more allergists (39%) would begin a biologic agent than other physicians (14%). Though the majority of pediatricians (62%) would defer to a gastroenterologist specialist, fewer PCPs (43%) or allergists (9%) would do so. More allergists and gastroenterologists than other specialty types indicated that their EoE management is guided by a standard approach. The most significant barrier to optimal management was felt to be poor patient adherence, though 25% of physicians would not routinely assess adherence at follow-up.ConclusionsResults highlight current gaps in managing EoE, which can inform areas of focus for future educational activities, potentially leading to less practice variation and increased use of evidence-based decision-making.
Adsorption of Methylene Blue on Babassu Coconut (Orbignya speciosa) Mesocarp Commercial Biochar
Authors: Kasemodel Mariana Consiglio , Romão Erica Leonor , Papa Thiago Bueno Ruiz
Published: April 2022

Removal of organic dyes from wastewater by adsorption has advantages over conventional materials due to its low cost, abundance, adsorption capacity, and recycling. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the adsorption capacity of methylene blue in commercial babassu coconut mesocarp biochar. For this, biochar was characterized using physico-chemical parameters, proximate analysis, specific surface area (SBET) and surface functional groups. Batch-tests were carried out to identify the influence of biochar dose, initial dye concentration, granulometric fraction and time in the adsorptive process. The mixture was kept on a rotary shaker at room temperature, and the concentration was determined in a UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Results were analyzed using kinetic and isotherm models. The SBET of the commercial biochar was of 484.9 m² g− 1. The optimal conditions were using a biochar dose of 5 g L− 1, initial dye concentration inferior to 300 mg L− 1 and biochar granulometric fraction inferior to 0.15 mm. Elovich kinetic model (R2 > 0.8742) was most suitable to represent the MB adsorption onto babassu coconut mesocarp biochar. The equilibrium adsorption data were best described by the Langmuir model (R2 > 0.9897), with qm = 67.6 mg g− 1.
A novel route for the synthesis of 2-chloro-3-[trans-4-(4-chlorophenyl) cyclohexyl]-1,4-naphthoquinone and its process development studies
Authors: S SANJAY S
Published: April 2022

Present work reports a novel and commercially viable method for the synthesis of 2-chloro-3-[trans-4-(4-chlorophenyl) cyclohexyl]-1,4-naphthoquinone 1, a renowned intermediate of Atovaquone (an antimalarial drug). Majority of the prior arts disclose the synthesis of this intermediate from the expensive starting material 2-chloro-1,4-naphthoquinone 2, in relatively low yield. In this regard, it was considered worthwhile to synthesize 1 by a novel route using cheaper starting material 2,3-dichloro-1,4-naphtoquinone 5, in high yield and purity. In the present study, emphasis was given for selecting the reagents and solvents, optimizing the reaction conditions, recovery and reuse of solvents and silver salt. This optimized novel process is cost effective and generate less effluents.
Coasting along the effects of climate change: the challenges of adapting our anthropogenic shorescapes to new uncertain conditions
Authors: Brugnach Marcela , Hoek Ronald van den
Published: April 2022

Nature Based Solutions (NbS) are mainstreamed as an innovative and adequate approach to climate change. Combining natural dynamics and materials with technical knowledge, NbS are seen as a promising venue for coastal adaptation. However, little still is known about the role that the many uncertainties associated with such projects play in the effectiveness of these solutions, and about how to cope with these uncertainties, considering the impacts NbS may have for our society. Here, we investigate, if and how, managing uncertainties via the cascades of interrelated uncertainties conceptual framework improves the governance capacity for implementing NbS coastal management projects. To this end, we conduct an ex-post analysis of the uncertainties in two NbS study cases: Sand Engine and Safety Buffer Oyster Dam BwN projects in The Netherlands, critically analyzing through the conceptual framework, how uncertainties were addressed and proposing better fit supporting alternatives. Our results indicate major benefits for uncertainty management, supporting project development and implementation: generating more flexibility in managing under unknown conditions, being able to anticipate conflict, providing opportunities of creating new supporting relationships and alternative solutions.
Prognostic Biomarker DPY19L1 Reduces Survival in Glioma Patients
Authors: Lin Po-Chun , Chung Ming-Hsuan , Wang Peng-Wei , Huang Li‑Chun , Chen Ssu‑Han , Hueng Dueng-Yuan , Hung Kuang-Chen
Published: April 2022

Four homologous genes of C. elegans dpy-19 had been recognized in human. DPY19L1 is critical in neuronal migration of cerebral corticogenesis. However, there is no study investigated in the correlation between DPY19L1 and human gliomas. We performed analyses of Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) which revealed overexpression of DPY19L1 in higher-grade gliomas. Moreover, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of TCGA and CGGA datasets demonstrated that higher DPY19L1 level shortened survival outcome in glioma patients (P < 0.05 by log-rank test). Furthermore, the gene expression, protein level of DPY19L1 were higher in glioma cell lines than in normal brain control corroborated by quantitative RT‑PCR and Western blot. Immunohistochemical staining of human glioma samples showed enhancement of DPY19L1 expression in high-grade glioma than in low-grade glioma. Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) was studied to explore the protein-protein interaction of DPY19L1. In conclusion, elevation in DPY19L1 expression associates with higher WHO pathological grading and poor prognosis, and DPY19L1 might serve as a predictive biomarker of disease progression in gliomas.
Deficiency of murine UFM1-specific E3 ligase causes microcephaly and inflammation
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhu Huabin , Liu Siyang , Quintero Michaela , Zhu Tianyi , Xu Renshi , Cai Yafei , Han Ye , Li Honglin
Published: April 2022

The UFM1 conjugation system is a Ubiquitin (Ub) -like modification system that is essential for animal development and normal physiology of multiple tissues and organs. It consists of UFM1, a Ub-like modifier, and the UFM1-specific enzymes (namely E1 enzyme UBA5, E2 enzyme UFC1 E2, and E3 ligases) that catalyze conjugation of UFM1 to its specific protein targets. Clinical studies have identified rare genetic variants in human UFM1, UBA5 and UFC1 genes that were linked to early-onset encephalopathy and defective brain development, strongly suggesting the critical role of the UFM1 system in the nervous system. Yet the phsyiologica function of this system in adult brain remains not defined. In this study, we investigated the role of UFM1 E3 ligase in adult mouse and found that both UFL1 and UFBP1 proteins, two components of UFM1 E3 ligase, are essential for survival of mature neurons in adult mouse. Neuron-specific deletion of either UFL1 or UFBP1 led to significant neuronal loss and elevation of inflammatory response. Interestingly, loss of one allele of UFBP1 genes caused occurance of seizure-like events. Our study has provided genetic evidence for the indispensable role of UFM1 E3 ligase in mature neurons and further demonstrated the importance of the UFM1 system in the nervous system.
The Effects of Different Endodontic Cavities on the Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Mandibular First Molars- A Three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Wang Xiao , Wang Wei , Wang Dan , Wang Yirong , Qiu Xinyu , Cheng Xiaogang , Ni Longxing , Tian Yu
Published: April 2022

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to predict the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular first molars (MFMs) with diverse minimally invasive endodontic access cavities using finite element models.Materials and Methods: Based on microcomputed tomographic data of an MFM, five three-dimensional finite element models representing a natural tooth (NT) and 4 endodontically treated MFMs were generated using finite element analysis software (HyperWork 14.0, Altair, USA). Treated MFM models were with a traditional endodontic cavity (TEC) and minimal invasive endodontic (MIE) cavities, including a computer-aided designed guided endodontic cavity (GEC), contracted endodontic cavity (CEC) and truss endodontic cavity (TREC). Three loading conditions were applied, simulating a maximum bite force of 600 N vertically and a normal masticatory force of 225 N vertically and laterally. The distributions of von Mises (VM) stress and peak VM stress were calculated.Results: The peak VM stresses of the NT model were the lowest under normal masticatory forces. In endodontically treated models, the distribution of VM stress in GEC model under all loads was the most similar to NT model. The peak VM stresses of the GEC and CEC models under different forces were lower than those of TREC and TEC models. The peak VM stresses of the GEC were lower than those of the CEC under normal masticatory loads but higher under maximum bite load. Under two vertical loads, the peak VM stresses of the TREC model were the highest, while under the lateral load, the peak VM stress of the TEC model was the highest. However, the VM stress in most part of the TEC model was higher than that in TREC model under all loads. Conclusions: Compared with TEC, GEC and CEC could better improve the fracture resistance of teeth. TREC may have a limited effect on fracture resistance enhancement when compared to GEC and CEC.Clinical Relevance: Our data demonstrated that compared with TEC and TREC, GEC and CEC access could better improve the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth, which may be an alternative balancing biomechanical properties and clinical convenience.
Comprehensive Analysis of Prognostic Value and Immune Infiltration of Src Family Kinases in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yao Dingjin , Deng Yiran , Zhang Si , Liang Limiao , Zhang Li , Weng Shuqiang , Chen She
Published: April 2022

Background: Src family kinases (SFKs) belong to the non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases family which are generally dysregulated in a variety of tumors. This study aims to thoroughly investigate the mutation status, expression level, prognostic value and relationship with immune infiltration of SFKs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: TIMER2.0, UALCAN, cBioPortal, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan-Meier Plotter, STRING, GeneMANIA and XIANTAO platform were utilized to analyze differential expression, genetic alteration, prognostic value and immune cell infiltration of SFKs in HCC patients. Furthermore, we used quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and western blot analysis to measure SFKs mRNA and protein expression in matching specimens of normal tissue versus HCC. We analyzed the biological effects of overexpressing FYN in Huh7 cells and subcutaneous xenograft tumor model. Results: The mRNA expression levels of LYN, SRC and SRM were elevated in HCC tissues, whereas FYN was reduced. Around 10% genetic alterations rate of SFKs was observed in HCC. The mRNA levels of BLK, BRK, FRK, FYN, LCK, LYN, SRC, SRM and YES were correlated with clinical cancer stage. Elevated FYN mRNA level in HCC was positively correlated with overall survival (OS), while SRC was negatively correlated with OS. The interaction network and functional enrichment analysis implied that SFKs were closely associated with the regulation of immune cells, cell adhesion molecules and signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis and development. And all SFKs members in HCC were significantly relevant to at least half of the six imune-infiltrating cells, including B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, we confirmed that the protein expression level of FYN was decreased in HCC patients and human hepatoma cell line. Overexpression of FYN suppressed Huh7 cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis in xenografts nude mice.Conclusion: Dysregulated FYN and SRC expression in HCC is associated with poor prognosis and might be used as novel potential prognostic biomarkers in HCC patients.
Harm reduction implementation among HIV service organizations (HSOs) in the U.S. South: a policy context analysis and results from a survey of HSOs.
Authors: Stanton Megan , McCormick Katie , Ali Samira
Published: April 2022

Background. HIV service organizations are integral to serving communities disproportionately impacted by the HIV and opioid epidemics in the U.S. South. Addressing these intersecting epidemics requires implementation of evidence-based approaches, such as harm reduction. However, little is known about the extent to which Southern HIV service organizations implement harm reduction. This manuscript examines: 1) the implementation context of harm reduction in the South, 2) Southern HIV service organization implementation of harm reduction, and 3) the impact of different contexts within the South on HIV service organization implementation of harm reduction. Methods. To examine implementation context, authors analyzed nation-wide harm reduction policy and drug-related mortality data. To examine HIV service organization implementation of harm reduction, authors performed frequency distributions on survey data (n=207 organizations). Authors then constructed logistic regressions, using state mortality data and policy context as predictors, to determine what contextual factors predicted HIV service organization implementation of harm reduction.Results. Drug-related mortality data revealed an increased need for harm reduction, and harm reduction policy data revealed an increased political openness to harm reduction. Frequency distributions revealed that approximately half of the HIV service organizations surveyed reported that their organizations reflect a harm reduction orientation, and only 26% reported providing harm reduction services. Despite low utilization rates, HIV service organizations indicated a strong interest in harm reduction. Logistic regressions revealed that while increased mortality rates do not predict HIV service organization implementation of harm reduction, a harm reduction-friendly policy context does. Discussion. This study highlights how regions within high-income countries can face unique barriers to healthcare and therefore require a unique understanding of implementation context. Study findings indicate a rapidly changing implementation context where increased need meets increased political opportunity to implement harm reduction, however there is a lag in HIV service organization adoption of harm reduction. Financial resources, capacity building, and continued policy advocacy are required for increased HIV service organization adoption of harm reduction.
Integrated Optical Frequency Comb for 5G NR Xhauls
Authors: Lima Eduardo Saia , Borges Ramon Maia , Andriolli Nicola , Conforti Evandro , Contestabile Giampiero , S Arismar Cerqueira.
Published: April 2022

We experimentally demonstrate the use of optical frequency combs (OFC), generated by a photonic integrated circuit (PIC), in a flexible optical distribution network based on fiber-optics and free-space optics (FSO) links, aiming the fifth generation of mobile network (5G) Xhauls. The Indium Phosphide (InP) monolithically integrated OFC is based on cascaded optical modulators and is broadly tunable in terms of operating wavelength and frequency spacing. Particularly, our approach relies on applying the PIC in a centralized radio access network (C-RAN) architecture, with the purpose of optically generating two low-phase noise mm-waves signals for simultaneously enabling a 12.5-km of single-mode fiber (SMF) fronthaul and a 12.5-km SMF midhaul, followed by a 10-m long FSO fronthaul link. Moreover, the demonstrator contemplates two 10-m reach 5G wireless access networks operating in the 26 GHz band, i.e. over the frequency range 2 (FR2) from the 5G NR standard. The proposed integrated OFC-based 5G system performance is in accordance to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 15 requirements, achieving a total wireless throughput of 900 Mbit/s.
The role of pornography in the sex life of young adults - a cross-sectional cohort study on female and male German medical students
Authors: Jahnen Matthias , Zeng Leopold , Kron Martina , Meissner Valentin H. , Korte Alexander , Schiele Stefan , Schulwitz Helga , Dinkel Andreas , Gschwend Jürgen E. , Herkommer Kathleen
Published: April 2022

Background: Due to easy online accessibility of pornography its consumption is popular among adolescents and young adults. Considering recently developed frameworks on the effects of sexual media, we assessed how increased consumption of pornography is associated with the experience of certain aspects of offline and online sexual activity in German medical students. Methods: Between April 2018 and March 2020 medical students from the Technical University of Munich in Germany were anonymously surveyed with regards to their sexual behavior, consumption of pornography, and use of social media. 468 students (female: n=293; male: n=175) were included in the current analysis. Data was analyzed using simple and multiple Poisson regression analysis.Results: Only 7.3% of female students but the majority of male students (79.1%) consumed pornography more than 4 times in the last 4 weeks. Female and male students who reported to be inspired by pornography (female: 52.0%, male: 74.6%) and who have enjoyed the experience of anal intercourse in their life (female: 17.1%, male: 32.2%) consumed pornography more frequently. Female students who have experienced a “threesome” (9.0%), have sent erotic pictures of themselves (33.5%), or use social media in their dating life (27.6%) consumed pornography more frequently. Male students who did not experience a sexual transmitted disease (82.9%) and did not cheat on their partner (68.0%) consumed pornography more frequently (results of multiple Poisson regression analysis; all p < 0.05).Conclusions: Many students consider pornography as inspiration for their sex life and frequent consumption of pornography seems to be associated with gender specific characteristics congruent with short-term sexual quality . The desire of adolescents and young adults for practical information about sexual intercourse should be addressed openly and a proper understanding of the sexuality shown in pornography should be taught.
How Does Random Spike Timing Code Anything?
Authors: Gilbert Mike
Published: April 2022

Nerve cells send signals to each other by discharging action potentials (spikes), the fast and brief depolarisation of cell membrane potential which propagates away from the cell body (soma). Traditionally, the two main candidates to code information in signals are spike frequency (firing rate) and spike timing. However, some cells – including Purkinje cells in the cerebellum – spike with unpredictably irregular timing, so that it is not obvious how it could be either, or indeed how it codes anything at all. Purkinje cells powerfully modulate firing of the output cells of the cerebellum. This paper argues that information is coded in the millisecond-to-millisecond probability of a Purkinje cell spike. Coded this way, firing of a single cell is meaningless, but the probability is synchronised at the level of functional groups of Purkinje cells – microzones – which form part of the cerebellar circuit. Around forty Purkinje cells converge on a cerebellum output cell. Because spike probability, but not timing, is synchronised among microzone-grouped Purkinje cells, the combined spike rate received by an output cell accurately and smoothly represents the group-coded probability. In this manner, irregular spike timing of single Purkinje cells is turned into analog modulation of output cell firing.
Analysis and prediction of COVID-19 using growth analysis models: A case study
Authors: Lone Kalimullah , Sofi Shabir Ahmad
Published: April 2022

The recent corona virus disease 2019 outbreak has added to the development of novel methods to study the epidemiological and predictive nature of the pandemic. Mining such data is necessary as this data is full of trends and information. Use of data mining techniques allows us to extract and process such data in order to predict the trends and behaviour of the pandemic. Analysis, evaluation and prediction is performed on Jammu and Kashmir’s data during the period 09th of March 2020 to 10th of February 2021. The work is done on the dataset of patients provided by department of information and public relations, Government of Jammu and kashmir. Various mathematical models and techniques were used to predict the virus spread and occurrence with the help of symptoms. Our aim is to propose a model to predict the virus occurrence based on the symptoms and epidemiological nature of the pandemic. The trends and behaviour of the virus in Jammu and Kashmir was studied. People under observation, number of people tested for the virus, positive, negative, recovered, active and deaths were keenly observed. The prediction to find an infected patient was carried out with the help of symptoms. The results obtained from the prediction model are verified with the actual results.
Epidural Failure Among Junior Residents: Should the First Stage of Practical Skill Acquisition be Developed in a Skills Lab? A retrospective cohort study.
Authors: Farsi Sara
Published: April 2022

BackgroundEpidural insertion is one of the more complex skills that anesthesia residents must master by the end of their training.MethodsWe performed a retrospective cohort study investigating the relationship between labor epidural failure and anesthesia residents’ level of training.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference in success rate (p = 0.04), number of pricks (p = 0.001), and time to insertion (p = 0.04) between senior and junior anesthesia residents.ConclusionsThese findings may be a result of the resident passing through the cognitive and integrative stages of skill development. In an effort to improve anesthesia residents’ training experience and provide a safe environment for both patients and trainees, simulation should be used when possible, to develop the basic techniques required for epidural insertion.
Risk Stratification of Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Complicated with Sepsis Using Lactate Trajectories
Authors: Zhang Haoyue , Li Ziping , Zheng Weiqiang , Zhang Linlin , Yang Tianqi , Xie Keliang , Yu Yonghao
Published: April 2022

Background
No consensus has been reached on an optimal blood lactate evaluation system although several approaches have been reported in the literature in recent years. A group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) method could better stratify patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) complicated with sepsis in the intensive care unit (ICU).
Methods
762 patients from the comprehensive ICU of Tianjin Medical University General Hospital with ARDS complicated with sepsis were eligible for analysis. Serial serum lactate levels were measured within 48 h of admission. In addition to the GBTM lactate groups, the initial lactate, peak lactate level, the area under the curve of serial lactate (lactate AUC), and lactate clearance were also considered for comparison. The short- and long-term outcomes were the 30- and 90-day mortality rates, respectively.
Results
Three lactate groups were identified based on GBTM, with group 3 exhibiting the worse short- (hazard ratio (HR): for 30-days mortality: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.75 to 2.92, P < 0.001) and long term (HR for 90-day mortality: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.78 to 5.27, P < 0.001) outcomes followed by group 2 [HR for 30-day mortality: 1.79, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.30 to 2.47, P < 0.001] and HR for 90-days mortality: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.30 to 2.31, P < 0.001). GBTM lactate groups exhibited significantly improved diagnostic performance of initial lactate + SOFA scores/APACHE II scores models. Based on the multivariable fractional polynomial interaction (MFPI) approach, GBTM lactate groups could better differentiate high-risk patients than the initial lactate groups in short- and long-term outcomes.
Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that GBTM-based serial blood lactate evaluations significantly improve the diagnostic capacity of traditional critical care evaluation systems and bring many advantages over previously documented lactate evaluation systems.
Serum Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Phenylketonuria Patients
Authors: Karimpour Farouq , Roushanbakht Nazanin , Abdoli Amirabbas , Mousavi Zahra , Ebrahimi Soltan Ahmad , Najafizadeh Parvaneh
Published: April 2022

Background: Neurological damage is one of the main challenges faced by patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) which is partly caused by oxidative stress and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition to that, high concentration of phenylalanine or its metabolites and destruction of enzymatic antioxidant systems may result in such a damage. The present study sought to evaluate oxidative stress parameters in the plasma of PKU patients (PKU group) and compare them with those of healthy individuals (control group).Methods: A total of 123 plasma samples obtained from both PKU and control groups were randomly selected. The concentration of 19 essential amino acids was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Enzymatic and non-enzymatic oxidative biomarkers, including thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBA-Rs), catalase activity (CAT), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured in the samplesResults: Evaluation of 19 amino acids in the two groups showed that phenylalanine (Phe) concentration was significantly higher in PKU group, compared with the control (p<0.0001). Moreover, GSH-Px, CAT, and SOD activities significantly decreased, while TBA-RS increased (p<0.0001) in PKU serums. There was also a significant positive correlation between Phe concentration and the values of GSH-Px (p<0.001), CAT (p<0.001), and SOD (p<0.001). Finally, a significant negative correlation was observed between Phe concentration and TBA-Rs value (p<0.001).Conclusion: Oxidative stress could be one of the causes of intellectual disability in patients suffering from PKU. The accumulation of Phe and neurotoxic derivatives decreases antioxidant defense and heightens oxidative stress by increasing ROS.
The change of genetic diversity and isolation-by-distance pattern in Qinling pandas
Authors: Huang Jiqin , Hu Simin , Zhu Qifeng , Li Fangfang , Zhang Ximing , Jin Xuelin
Published: April 2022

Due to geographic isolation and habitat disturbance, Qinling pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca qinlingensis) were divided into six geographical subpopulations in the Fourth National Survey on Giant Pandas. The habitat fragmentation hinders giant pandas’ spread and gene flow and reduces this species’ genetic diversity. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether such geographical demarcation of Qinling panda subpopulations can be reflected on the genetic level. In this study, we conduct a microsatellite analysis with 12 loci based on 90 individuals identified via fecal samples collected from March 2017 to January 2018 in Qinling Mountains. The level of observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranges from 0.330 to 0.898 with a mean Ho of 0.578; the level of expected heterozygosity (He) is between 0.288 and 0.721 with an average value of 0.529. The analysis of isolation-by-distance (IBD) pattern finds genetic distance has a significantly positive correlation with geographic distance in close distance levels (p = 0.001). To conserve the Qinling panda’s genetic diversity, measures need to be taken to help genetic exchanges between different habitat patches, especially for those with very few individuals.