bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel secured Euclidean space points algorithm for blind spatial image watermarking
Authors: Basha Shaik Hedayath , B Jaison
Published: September 2022

Digital raw images obtained from the data set of various organizations require authentication, copyright protection, and security with simple processing. New Euclidean space point’s algorithm is proposed to authenticate the images by embedding binary logos in the digital images in the spatial domain. Diffie–Hellman key exchange protocol is implemented along with the Euclidean space axioms to maintain security for the proposed work. The proposed watermarking methodology is tested on the standard set of raw grayscale and RGB color images. The watermarked images are sent in the email, WhatsApp, and Facebook and analyzed. Standard watermarking attacks are also applied to the watermarked images and analyzed. The finding shows that there are no image distortions in the communication medium of email and WhatsApp. But in the Facebook platform, raw images experience compression and observed exponential noise on the digital images. The authentication and copyright protection are tested from the processed Facebook images. It is found that the embedded logo could be recovered and seen with added noise distortions. So the proposed method offers authentication and security with compression attacks. Similarly, it is found that the proposed methodology is robust to JPEG compression, image tampering attacks like collage attack, image cropping, rotation, salt-and-pepper noise, sharpening filter, semi-robust to Gaussian filtering, and image resizing, and fragile to other geometrical attacks. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve is drawn and found that the area under the curve is approximately equal to unity and restoration accuracy of [67 to 100]% for various attacks.
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for relapsed and refractory thyroid cancer
Authors: Ding Jing , Li Deyu , Liu Xingchen , Hei Hu , Sun Baoxi , Zhou Dongmin , Zhou Keshu , Song Yongping
Published: September 2022

The prognosis of most thyroid cancer patients is excellent, but for those with advanced or metastatic thyroid cancer, effective treatments are still lacking. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has gained remarkable achievements in hematologic malignancy but shown limited efficacy in solid tumors. In this report, we showed a relapsed and refractory thyroid cancer patient treated with TSHR + CD19 CAR-T, a combination of two 2nd generation CAR-T molecules targeting both TSHR and CD19. This patient finally achieved partial remission at 3 months and was tolerate well to the regimen. Our study suggested that the CAR-T therapy could be a feasible way in treating relapsed and refractory thyroid cancer.
Investigating the effects of flipped vocabulary learning via an online dictionary on EFL learners' listening comprehension
Authors: Ebadi Saman , Nozari Fouzhan , Salman Ahmed Rawdhan
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the impact of flipped vocabulary learning on the listening achievement of EFL learners. The study participants included 60 English language learners selected based on their performance on the Michigan Test of English Language Proficiency and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group was taught based on flipped vocabulary learning, while the students in the control group received no such instruction. For treatment in the experimental group, the teacher taught the unknown and new vocabulary in the listening text from the TACTICS textbook using an online dictionary to flip the classroom. The teacher offered an online dictionary and encouraged learners to check out words, synonyms, and antonyms to become more familiar with new words. Before each listening class, students memorized 20 target words, prior to taking on the listening tasks. The obtained data were analyzed using the ANCOVA procedure. The study results demonstrated that the experimental group performed significantly better than the control group. Also, the findings suggested that flipped vocabulary learning can be used as an effective instructional tool to help learners improve their listening achievement. The theoretical and practical implications for learners, teachers, and syllabus designers are discussed.
Oxygen tank for synergistic hypoxia relief to enhance mitochondria-targeted photodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Xianghui , Wang Haoran , Li Zhiyan , Li Dandan , Lu Xiaofeng , Ai Shichao , Dong Yuxiang , Liu Song , Wu Jinhui , Guan Wenxian
Published: September 2022

Background

Mitochondria play an essential role in cellular redox homeostasis maintenance and meanwhile serve as an important target for organelle targeted therapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising strategy for organelle targeted therapy with noninvasive nature and highly spatiotemporal selectivity. However, the efficacy of PDT is not fully achieved due to tumor hypoxia. Moreover, aerobic respiration constantly consumes oxygen and leads to a lower oxygen concentration in mitochondria, which continuously limited the therapeutic effects of PDT. The lack of organelle specific oxygen delivery method remains a main challenge.

Methods

Herein, an Oxygen Tank is developed to achieve the organelle targeted synergistic hypoxia reversal strategy, which not only act as an oxygen storage tank to open sources and reduce expenditure, but also coated with red blood cell membrane like the tank with stealth coating. Within the oxygen tank, a mitochondrion targeted photosensitizer (IR780) and a mitochondria respiration inhibitor (atovaquone, ATO) are co-loaded in the RBC membrane (RBCm) coated perfluorocarbon (PFC) liposome core.

Results

Inside these bio-mimic nanoparticles, ATO effectively inhibits mitochondrial respiration and economized endogenous oxygen consumption, while PFC supplied high-capacity exogenous oxygen. These Oxygen modulators reverse the hypoxia status in vitro and in vivo, and exhibited a superior anti-tumor activity by mitochondria targeted PDT via IR780. Ultimately, the anti-tumor effects towards gastric cancer and colon cancer are elicited in vivo.

Conclusions

This oxygen tank both increases exogeneous oxygen supply and decreases endogenous oxygen consumption, may offer a novel solution for organelle targeted therapies.
The effects of monetary policies on foreign direct investment inflows in emerging economies: some policy implications for post-COVID-19
Authors: Karahan Özcan , Bayır Musa
Published: September 2022

Expansionary monetary policies, which started to be implemented after the global crisis in 2008 and became widespread during the COVID-19 period, lowered global interest rates and increased the stock market indexes. This study aims to investigate the effects of expansionary monetary policies implemented before and during COVID-19 on foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to emerging economies. In this context, the effect of expansionary monetary policies on FDI has been tried to be determined through the changes created in financial indicators such as interest rate and stock market index. Accordingly, the effects of the developments in the global stock market index and interest rates on the FDI for Brazil, China, Turkey, and Poland were estimated using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model for the period 2008–2021. Empirical findings show that expansionary monetary policy practices before and during COVID-19 causing high global stock market index and low-interest rates encourage FDI inflows to developing countries. The empirical results on the effects of expansionary monetary policies applied before and during COVID-19 on FDI allow important implications to be made when considered together with the contractionary monetary policies to be implemented after COVID-19. So much so that our empirical results in favour of FDI flows to developing countries regarding the expansionary monetary policies implemented before and during COVID-19 imply that the transition to contractionary monetary policy in the post-COVID-19 period may cause significant constraints on the FDI inflows to developing countries. Therefore, it may be expected that favourable financial conditions for foreign direct capital inflows to developing countries will disappear in the post-COVID-19 period. In other words, the falling global stock market index and increasing interest rates along with the contractionary monetary policies implemented in the post-COVID-19 period will be able to have the potential to cause a significant change in the investment preferences of international companies towards developing economies. The general policy prescription obtained from the results of the study shows that developing countries would need much more FDI-attracting policies in order to compensate for the negative financial effects of contractionary monetary policies implemented in the post-COVID-19 period.
Paradoxes of Nostalgia
Authors: Von Eschen Penny M.
Published: September 2022

In Paradoxes of Nostalgia; Penny M. Von Eschen offers a sweeping examination of the cold war’s afterlife and the lingering shadows it casts over geopolitics, journalism, and popular culture. She shows how myriad forms of nostalgia across the globe—from those that posit a mythic national past to those critical of neoliberalism that remember a time when people believed in the possibility of a collective good—indelibly shape the post-cold war era. When Western triumphalism moved into the global South and former Eastern bloc spaces, many articulated a powerful sense of loss and a longing for stability. Innovatively bringing together diplomatic archives, museums, films, and video games, Von Eschen shows that as the United States continuously sought new enemies for its unipolar world, cold war triumphalism fueled the ascendancy of xenophobic right-wing nationalism and the embrace of authoritarian sensibilities in the United States and beyond. Ultimately, she demonstrates that triumphalist claims that capitalism and military might won the cold war distort the past and disfigure the present, undermining democratic values and institutions.
Analysis on efficacy of compound dextran combined with atorvastatin calcium in patients with CVS caused by SAH based on TCD blood flow indexes
Authors: Zhang Yu , Ma Feifan , Gan Ning , Su Fei , Song Zhaoyan
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To analyze the effects of compound dextran combined with atorvastatin calcium on blood flow indexes, peroxidase 2 (Prx2) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in patients with cerebral vasospasm (CVS) caused by subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

Methods: One hundred patients with CVS caused by SAH treated in Baoding No.1 Central Hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 were divided into observation group and control group. The control group was treated with atorvastatin calcium tablets, while the observation group was additionally treated with compound dextran. The hospital stays, Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) levels before and five days after treatment were recorded. The hemodynamic parameters of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and the serum levels of Prx2 and ET-1 were detected.

Results: After treatment, GOS and Hct levels in the observation group were both higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the mean and peak velocities of the MCA in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the serum levels of Prx2 and ET-1 in the observation group were significantly lower compared with those in the control group (P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found in the incidences of adverse reactions between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: Compound dextran combined with atorvastatin calcium can effectively enhance clinical efficacy, improve cerebral blood flow and reduce serum Prx2 and ET-1 levels in patients with CVS caused by SAH.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.5504

How to cite this:Zhang Y, Ma F, Gan N, Su F, Song Z. Analysis on efficacy of compound dextran combined with atorvastatin calcium in patients with CVS caused by SAH based on TCD blood flow indexes. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(8):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.5504

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Revealing the extent of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya based on serological and PCR-test data
Authors: Ojal John , Brand Samuel P. C. , Were Vincent , Okiro Emelda A. , Kombe Ivy K. , Mburu Caroline , Aziza Rabia , Ogero Morris , Agweyu Ambrose , Warimwe George M. , Uyoga Sophie , Adetifa Ifedayo M. O. , Scott J. Anthony G. , Otieno Edward , Ochola-Oyier Lynette I. , Agoti Charles N. , Kasera Kadondi , Amoth Patrick , Mwangangi Mercy , Aman Rashid , Ng’ang’a Wangari , Tsofa Benjamin , Bejon Philip , Barasa Edwine , Keeling Matt J. , Nokes D. James
Published: September 2022

Policymakers in Africa need robust estimates of the current and future spread of SARS-CoV-2. We used national surveillance PCR test, serological survey and mobility data to develop and fit a county-specific transmission model for Kenya up to the end of September 2020, which encompasses the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the country. We estimate that the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic peaked before the end of July 2020 in the major urban counties, with 30-50% of residents infected. Our analysis suggests, first, that the reported low COVID-19 disease burden in Kenya cannot be explained solely by limited spread of the virus, and second, that a 30-50% attack rate was not sufficient to avoid a further wave of transmission.
New Forms of Work with Juniors in the International Environment of Olympiad Informatics
Authors: Tsvetkova Marina
Published: September 2022

The article describes the problem of creating an accessible Olympiad environment to support the creativity of students in grades 5-10 based on digital programming competencies and digital project tracks in specialized subjects based on international experience in partnership with the participating countries of the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI).

The infrastructure of the International Junior School of Informatics (ISIJ) and the organizational and technological model of the Olympiad environment are presented as an online network of reference sites in the regions of Russia and partner countries of the Olympiad environment not only for participation in the ISIJ Cup, but also for the systematic preparation of students and coaches to participate in the international level Olympiad movement.
Design of Platform Reputation Systems: Optimal Information Disclosure
Authors: Shi Zijun (June) , Srinivasan Kannan , Zhang Kaifu
Published: September 2022

This paper studies the amount of information disclosure in a reputation system that optimizes the platform’s profit.
EquineReview
Authors: Bowen Mark
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

This edition of the Equine Review looks at the use of basal adrenocorticotropic hormone testing for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, rifampicin in the treatment of Rhodoccocus equi and a new approach to managing persistent strangles carriers.
A Report of a Rare Case of Multiple Fibro adipose Venous Anomaly
Authors: Kumar L Dhruva , Gopurathingal Anto , Chinder Pramod , Hindiskere Suraj
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Although not described more than a decade ago, fibro adipose vascular anomaly has grown of increasing importance as conventional management of arterio venous malformation with interventional radiology measures carry little success and cause significant morbidity in pediatric age groups like the case report we present here. Surgical resection, even though requiring significant loss of muscle bulk, is the mainstay of the treatment. Case Report: An 11-year-old patient presented with equinus deformity and intensely tender calf and foot swellings in the right leg. Magnetic resonance imaging showed presence of two distinct lesions, one involving the gastrocnemius and soleus, and the other in the Achilles tendon for which en bloc resection of the tumor was performed. Histopathology of the specimens confirmed the diagnosis of fibro adipose venous anomaly. Conclusion: As per our knowledge, this is the first case of multiple fibro adipose venous anomaly confirmed by clinical features, radiology, and histopathology.
A Rare Hoffa Fracture with Sagittal Split and Intra-articular Comminution: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Schapira Benjamin , Li Lily , Patel Akash , Deierl Krisztian
Published: September 2022

Introduction: A Hoffa fracture is a rare coronal plane, intra-articular fracture of the femoral condyle involving the weight-bearing portion of the posterior distal femur. The anatomy of this fracture lends it to be an inherently unstable injury, requiring surgical fixation to achieve stability. To date, research describing Hoffa fractures is limited to small case series and case reports. This article aims to describe the first case discussion of a unique type of Hoffa fracture with a sagittal split within the fragment and intra-articular comminution. We review the etiology, management, and follow-up of this case with respect to the existing literature. Case Presentation: A 40-year-old man involved in a high-speed motorcycle collision presented with a displaced coronal plane, intra-articular fracture of the lateral femoral condyle (Hoffa fracture). Cross-sectional imaging with MRI identified a sagittal split in the Hoffa fragment and partial anterior cruciate ligament rupture. This was managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) through a lateral parapatellar approach with cannulated compression screws and a distal radius plate used in buttress mode. Postoperatively, the patient was rehabilitated with graduated increase in range of knee movement range of motion (ROM) and weight-bearing. Five months after surgery, he had regained independent motion of the knee but suffered residual stiffness, which required arthroscopic adhesiolysis. At 6-month follow-up, the patient was pain free and had resumed normal activities with knee ROM 5–90°. Conclusion: This article highlights a unique and rare subtype of Hoffa fracture not illustrated in current classifications. Management is notoriously challenging with little consensus as to the optimal approach, implants, and post-operative rehabilitation. ORIF provides the best choice for maximal post-operative knee function. In our case, a buttress plate was utilized to stabilize the sagittal fracture component. Post-operative rehabilitation may be complicated by soft-tissue and/or ligamentous injury. Choice of approach, technique, implant, and rehabilitation are dependent on fracture morphology. Close follow-up is required with strict physiotherapy to ensure sufficient long-term range of movement, patient satisfaction, and return to activity.
Chronic Osteomyelitis Secondary to Hydatid Disease of Bone – A Case Report
Authors: Paul Nirvin , Roy Alfred Cyril
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Osseous hydatidosis is a rare orthopedic condition. Osseous hydatidosis leading to chronic osteomyelitis is rarer with very few articles published on it. This presents a challenge in diagnosis and treatment. Here, we report a patient with chronic osteomyelitis secondary to Echinococcal infection. Case Report: A 30-year-old lady with fracture left femur operated elsewhere presented with a draining sinus. She underwent a debridement and sequestrectomy. The condition was quiescent until 4 years later when symptoms recurred. She again underwent debridement, sequestrectomy, and saucerisation. The biopsy showed hydatid cyst. Conclusion: The diagnosis and treatment are challenging. The chances of recurrence are very high. Multimodality approach is recommended.
Management of a Gap Non-union Patella Fracture Using Encirclage Wire and Tension Band Wiring with Quadriceps V-Y Plasty in an Elderly Patient: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mahajan Neetin P , Kondewar Pranay , Ghoti Santosh , Chaudhari Kunal , Bagimani Pramod
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The management of gap non-union patella fractures continues to be a challenge in orthopedics. The incidence of these cases ranges between 2.7% and 12.5%. The quadriceps muscle attached to the proximal fractured fragment pulls it proximally leading to the gap at fracture site. If the gap is too large, there won’t be any fibrous union resulting in failure of quadriceps mechanism and extension lag. The primary aim is to bring the fracture fragments together and restore the extensor mechanism. Most of the surgeons prefer single-stage procedure, in which mobilization of the proximal fragment, followed by fixing with the lower fragment is done using V-Y plasty or x lengthening with or without pie Crusting. Others use of pre-operative traction to the proximal fragment using pins or ilizarov method. In our case, we used single-stage procedure whose results were encouraging. Case Report: A 60-year-old male patient presented with pain in the left knee with difficulty in walking since 3 months. The patient had road traffic accident 3 months back and sustained trauma to left knee. On clinical examination, there was palpable gap of more than 5 cm between the fracture fragments, anterior surface of femur and condyles was palpated through fracture site and knee range of motion was between 30° and 90° of flexion, and X-ray suggests of patella fracture. Midline 15 cm longitudinal incision was taken. The insertion of the quadriceps tendon over proximal pole of patella was exposed and pie crusting was done on medial and lateral side and V-Y plasty was done. SS wire was used to hold the reduction of the fragments by encirclage wiring and anterior tension band wiring done. Retinaculum was repaired and wound closed in layers. Postoperatively, long rigid knee brace was given for 2 weeks and walking with partial weight-bearing started. After suture removal at 2 weeks, full weight-bearing initiated. At 3 weeks, knee range of motion started and continued till 8 weeks. At 3 months post-operative, the patient is able to do flexion up to 90° and no extension lag is present. Conclusion: Adequate quadriceps mobilization during the surgery along with pie crusting and V-Y plasty with TBW and encirclage combined gives good functional outcome in patella gap non-unions.
Wide angle imaging system image simulation for accurate neural network performances prediction.
Authors: Buquet Julie , Larouche Raphael , Parent Jocelyn , Lalonde Jean-François , Thibault Simon
Published: September 2022

We developed a simulation pipeline of realistic wide-angle systems and compare the relative influence of optical characteristics used for design optimization (distortion, PSF) on single-image depth estimation accuracy using neural networks.
A new silicon based microelectromechanical resonator for photoacoustic gas sensing
Authors: Trzpil W. , Charensol J. , Seoudi T. , Ayache D. , Kniazeva E.I. , Vicet A. , Bahriz M.
Published: September 2022

A new silicon based capacitive sensor is developed for photoacoustic gas detection. It is precisely designed to overcome damping losses and enhance signal-to-noise ratio. For methane detection, we obtained a limit of detection of 667 ppmv.
Generation of a sub-wavelength sized optical needle with arbitrary longitudinal rotation
Authors: Miao Yu , Wang Guanxue , Li Ziyan , Wang Lingyu , Liu Baolin , Gao Xiumin
Published: September 2022

We show that under tight focusing conditions, arbitrarily rotating the longitudinally polarized optical needle in space is possible. Applying the Richards and Wolf vector diffraction methods, the explicit expressions underlying the simultaneous control depth of focus (DoF), intensity suppression of the sidelobes, as well as the orientation of the optical needle can be obtained, and then the strength vectors of the three-dimensional electromagnetic fields can be calculated. Calculations reveal that the sidelobe suppression ratio reaches 5.35% of the principal lobe, the optimal DoF is

5.1

λ

, and the maximum length is about

18.2

λ

. In addition, we specify the necessary conditions for rotating the sub-wavelength sized optical needle in the longitudinal field. Such an optical needle with controllable length, purity, and orientation can provide a flexible approach and additional degree of freedom for 3D precise fabrication and some other potential application areas.
Laser Ablation Spectroscopy Techniques for Nuclear Applications
Authors: Hartig Kyle C. , Latty Kyle S. , Kwapis Emily H.
Published: September 2022

Rapid, in-field, and standoff analysis of radiological materials is extremely important to nuclear applications and is possible with laser ablation spectroscopy techniques; however, applying optical spectroscopy to the measurement of radiological materials presents numerous challenges.
High-performance infrared photodetectors based on InAs/InAsSb/AlAsSb superlattice for 3.5 µm cutoff wavelength spectra
Authors: Jiang Junkai , Wang Guowei , Wu Donghai , Xu Yingqiang , Chang Faran , Zhou Wenguang , Li Nong , Jiang Dongwei , Hao Hongyue , Cui Suning , Chen Weiqiang , Xu Xueyue , Ni Haiqiao , Ding Ying , Niu Zhi-Chuan
Published: September 2022

High-performance infrared p-i-n photodetectors based on InAs/InAsSb/AlAsSb superlattices on GaSb substrate have been demonstrated at 300K. These photodetectors exhibit 50% and 100% cut-off wavelength of ∼3.2 µm and ∼3.5 µm, respectively. Under -130 mV bias voltage, the device exhibits a peak responsivity of 0.56 A/W, corresponding to a quantum efficiency (QE) of 28%. The dark current density at 0 mV and -130 mV bias voltage are 8.17 × 10−2 A/cm2 and 5.02 × 10−1 A/cm2, respectively. The device exhibits a saturated dark current shot noise limited specific detectivity (D*) of 3.43 × 109 cm·Hz1/2/W (at a peak responsivity of 2.5 µm) under -130 mV of applied bias.
Plug-in tip sensor based on upconversion fluorescence in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped tellurite glass for thermal monitoring of a miniature winding coil
Authors: Liu Wei , Song Dianchang , Yin Zhiyuan , Zhang Fan , Li Bin , Wang Fang , Zhang Xuenan , Yan Xin , Suzuki Takenobu , Ohishi Yasutake , Cheng Tonglei
Published: September 2022

We demonstrate a plug-in tip sensor with a maximum cross section diameter of only 1 mm for real-time thermal monitoring of a high-density miniature winding coil, which can meet the miniaturization development needs of electromagnetic actuators. Due to the high upconversion luminescence efficiency, tellurite glass with an optimized Er3+/Yb3+ doping ratio is adhered to the end face of silica fiber for a temperature-sensitive tip. Temperature information is demodulated using the fluorescence intensity ratio technique, yielding a nonlinear response with R2 up to 0.9978. Within a wide temperature range of 253.55–442.45 K, the tip sensor exhibits good repeatability, excellent stability, high sensitivity of 52.7 × 10−4 K−1, small absolute error within ±1 K, and fast time response of 2.03 s. It has been successfully proven to be a miniaturized device with strong anti-interference ability for the health management of high-density winding coils.
Rain Intensity Detection and Classification with Pre-existing Telecom Fiber Cables
Authors: Ding Yangmin , Tian Yue , Ozharar Sarper , Jiang Zhuocheng , Wang Ting
Published: September 2022

For the first time, we demonstrate detection and classification of rain intensity using Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS). An artificial neural network was applied for rain intensity classification and high precision of over 96% was achieved.
Association analyses of rare variants identify two genes associated with refractive error
Authors: Patasova Karina , Haarman Annechien E. G. , Musolf Anthony M. , Mahroo Omar A. , Rahi Jugnoo S. , Falchi Mario , Verhoeven Virginie J. M. , Bailey-Wilson Joan E. , Klaver Caroline C. W. , Duggal Priya , Klein Alison , Guggenheim Jeremy A. , Hammond Chris J. , Hysi Pirro G. ,   the CREAM Consortium; the UK Biobank Eye; Vision Consortium
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Genetic variants identified through population-based genome-wide studies are generally of high frequency, exerting their action in the central part of the refractive error spectrum. However, the power to identify associations with variants of lower minor allele frequency is greatly reduced, requiring considerable sample sizes. Here we aim to assess the impact of rare variants on genetic variation of refractive errors in a very large general population cohort.

Methods

Genetic association analyses of non-cyclopaedic autorefraction calculated as mean spherical equivalent (SPHE) used whole-exome sequence genotypic information from 50,893 unrelated participants in the UK Biobank of European ancestry. Gene-based analyses tested for association with SPHE using an optimised SNP-set kernel association test (SKAT-O) restricted to rare variants (minor allele frequency < 1%) within protein-coding regions of the genome. All models were adjusted for age, sex and common lead variants within the same locus reported by previous genome-wide association studies. Potentially causal markers driving association at significant loci were elucidated using sensitivity analyses by sequentially dropping the most associated variants from gene-based analyses.

Results

We found strong statistical evidence for association of SPHE with the SIX6 (p-value = 2.15 x 10−10, or Bonferroni-Corrected p = 4.41x10-06) and the CRX gene (p-value = 6.65 x 10−08, or Bonferroni-Corrected p = 0.001). The SIX6 gene codes for a transcription factor believed to be critical to the eye, retina and optic disc development and morphology, while CRX regulates photoreceptor specification and expression of over 700 genes in the retina. These novel associations suggest an important role of genes involved in eye morphogenesis in refractive error.

Conclusion

The results of our study support previous research highlighting the importance of rare variants to the genetic risk of refractive error. We explain some of the origins of the genetic signals seen in GWAS but also report for the first time a completely novel association with the CRX gene.
Uncovering anthocyanin diversity in potato landraces (Solanum tuberosum L. Phureja) using RNA-seq
Authors: Riveros-Loaiza Luis Miguel , Benhur-Cardona Nicolás , Lopez-Kleine Liliana , Soto-Sedano Johana Carolina , Pinzón Andrés Mauricio , Mosquera-Vásquez Teresa , Roda Federico
Published: September 2022

Potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) is the third largest source of antioxidants in the human diet, after maize and tomato. Potato landraces have particularly diverse contents of antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins. We used this diversity to study the evolutionary and genetic basis of anthocyanin pigmentation. Specifically, we analyzed the transcriptomes and anthocyanin content of tubers from 37 landraces with different colorations. We conducted analyses of differential expression between potatoes with different colorations and used weighted correlation network analysis to identify genes whose expression is correlated to anthocyanin content across landraces. A very significant fraction of the genes identified in these two analyses had annotations related to the flavonoid-anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway, including 18 enzymes and 5 transcription factors. Importantly, the causal genes at the D, P and R loci governing anthocyanin accumulation in potato cultivars also showed correlations to anthocyanin production in the landraces studied here. Furthermore, we found that 60% of the genes identified in our study were located within anthocyanin QTLs. Finally, we identified new candidate enzymes and transcription factors that could have driven the diversification of anthocyanins. Our results indicate that many anthocyanins biosynthetic genes were manipulated in ancestral potato breeding and can be used in future breeding programs.
Direct habitat descriptors improve the understanding of the organization of fish and macroinvertebrate communities across a large catchment
Authors: Picard Coline , Floury Mathieu , Seyedhashemi Hanieh , Morel Maxime , Pella Hervé , Lamouroux Nicolas , Buisson Laëtitia , Moatar Florentina , Maire Anthony
Published: September 2022

In large-scale aquatic ecological studies, direct habitat descriptors (e.g. water temperature, hydraulics in river reaches) are often approximated by coarse-grain surrogates (e.g. air temperature, discharge respectively) since they are easier to measure or model. However, as biological variability can be very strong at the habitat scale, surrogate variables may have a limited ability to capture all of this variability, which may lead to a lesser understanding of the ecological processes or patterns of interest. In this study, we aimed to compare the capacity of direct habitat descriptors vs. surrogate environmental variables to explain the organization of fish and macroinvertebrate communities across the Loire catchment in France (105 km2). For this purpose, we relied on high-resolution environmental data, extensive biological monitoring data (>1000 sampling stations) and multivariate analyses. Fish and macroinvertebrate abundance datasets were considered both separately and combined to assess the value of a cross-taxa approach. We found that fish and macroinvertebrate communities exhibited weak concordance in their organization and responded differently to the main ecological gradients. Such variations are probably due to fundamental differences in their life-history traits and mobility. Regardless of the biological group considered, direct habitat descriptors (water temperature and local hydraulic variables) consistently explained the organization of fish and macroinvertebrate communities better than surrogate descriptors (air temperature and river discharge). Furthermore, the organization of fish and macroinvertebrate communities was slightly better explained by the combination of direct or surrogate environmental variables when the two biological groups were considered together than when considered separately. Tied together, these results emphasize the importance of using a cross-taxa approach in association with high-resolution direct habitat variables to more accurately explain the organization of aquatic communities.
Therapeutic exercise versus other modalities for prevention and treatment of low back, pelvic girdle, and lumbopelvic pain during pregnancy: A review protocol
Authors: Ribeiro Lira Silvia Oliveira , Soares de Sousa Vanessa Patrícia , Viana Elizabel de Souza Ramalho
Published: September 2022

Background

The female body changes during pregnancy to create a favorable environment for fetal development which may result in musculoskeletal disorder and painful symptoms in the lumbopelvic region.

Objective

To analyze the evidence of therapeutic exercise versus other modalities to prevent and treat LBP, LGP, and LPP during pregnancy.

Methods

Full text randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating interventions to prevent or treat LBP, PGP, and LPP during pregnancy (any gestational age) that comparing therapeutic exercises with usual care or other modalities to reduce the incidence or severity of LBP or PGP or both during pregnancy will be included. 5 electronic databases will be searched to identify studies. Assess risk of bias in each study using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and quality of overall body of evidence for all primary outcomes will be assessed for all comparisons using the approach outlined in GRADE Handbook.
The polymorphism and tradition of funerary practices of medieval Turks in light of new findings from Tuva Republic
Authors: Chan Annie , Sadykov Timur , Blochin Jegor , Hajdas Irka , Caspari Gino
Published: September 2022

The medieval Turks of the eastern Asian steppe are known for funerary finds exalting horsemanship and military heroism that thrived on intertribal warfare. Existing bodies of research on various categories of objects—which include architecture, stelae, grave goods and inhumations—are in depth but highly regionalized. As a result, our understanding of the archaeological culture of the Turks on a spatio-temporal scale commensurate with territorial shifts in their political dominion throughout the period of the Turk khaganates (mid-6th to mid-8th centuries CE) remains disjunct. The present paper addresses this problem of disparate data. We present a synthesis of the archaeological research of medieval Turks spanning Mongolia, southern Siberia, and Xinjiang in view of results of the excavation of medieval burials at Tunnug 1 in Tuva Republic—where Turkic remains are dispersed and not easily distinguishable from other funerary cultures of connecting time periods. We argue that Turkic funerary culture can be better characterized as polymorphic–the presence of different regional amalgams of burial traditions. The horse-and-human burials and commemorativeogradkaknown to be quintessentially Turkic are but one of the more dominant amalgams. This pattern of differential practices is congruent with the history of medieval Turks evolving as peoples of mixed lineages and political groupings, rather than people of a unitary culture.
A stakeholder engagement strategy for an ongoing research program in rural dementia care: Stakeholder and researcher perspectives
Authors: Morgan Debra , Kosteniuk Julie , O’Connell Megan E. , Stewart Norma J. , Kirk Andrew , Cammer Allison , Dal Bello-Haas Vanina , Minish Duane P. , Elliot Valerie , Bayly Melanie , Froehlich Chow Amanda , Bracken Joanne , Parrott Edna , Bronner Tanis
Published: September 2022

Participatory research approaches have developed in response to the growing emphasis on translation of research evidence into practice. However, there are few published examples of stakeholder engagement strategies, and little guidance specific to larger ongoing research programs or those with a rural focus. This paper describes the evolution, structure, and processes of an annual Rural Dementia Summit launched in 2008 as an engagement strategy for the Rural Dementia Action Research (RaDAR) program and ongoing for more than 10 years; and reports findings from a parallel mixed-methods study that includes stakeholder and researcher perspectives on the Summit’s value and impact. Twelve years of stakeholder evaluations were analyzed. Rating scale data were summarized with descriptive statistics; open-ended questions were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. A thematic analysis was also used to analyze interviews with RaDAR researchers. Rating scale data showed high stakeholder satisfaction with all aspects of the Summit. Five themes were identified in the qualitative data: hearing diverse perspectives, building connections, collaborating for change, developing research and practice capacity, and leaving recharged. Five themes were identified in the researcher data: impact on development as a researcher, understanding stakeholder needs, informing research design, deepening commitment to rural dementia research, and building a culture of engagement. These findings reflect the key principles and impacts of stakeholder engagement reported in the literature. Additional findings include the value stakeholders place on connecting with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, how the Summit was revitalizing, and how it developed stakeholder capacity to support change in their communities. Findings indicate that the Summit has developed into a community of practice where people with a common interest come together to learn and collaborate to improve rural dementia care. The Summit’s success and sustainability are linked to RaDAR’s responsiveness to stakeholder needs, the trust that has been established, and the value that stakeholders and researchers find in their participation.
Dental health in patients with and without HPV-positive oropharyngeal and tongue cancer
Authors: Jouhi Lauri , Sikiö Jenna , Suomalainen Anni , Mroueh Rayan , Mäkitie Antti , Meurman Jukka H.
Published: September 2022

Background

Human papilloma virus is associated with oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Our aim was to examine oral health in patients with oropharyngeal (OPSCC) and oral tongue cancer (OTSCC), expecting better oral health among OPSCC patients.

Material and methods

Fifty-five OPSCC patients with known HPV status and 59 OTSCC patients were randomly selected from a list of consecutive patients of the Helsinki University Hospital, Finland. Oral health was assessed from panoramic jaw radiographs. Total Dental Index (TDI) summarizing the dental health status was calculated and Finnish population study data were used for comparison. Descriptive statistics were used for analyses.

Results

Patients with HPV-positive OPSCC had higher periapical lesion index compared with HPV-negative OPSCC patients or with OTSCC patients. Residual roots were more common among OPSCC patients compared with OTSCC patients, because of their higher occurrence among HPV-negative OPSCC patients compared with OTSCC patients. Similarly, modified TDI score was significantly higher among OPSCC patients than among OTSCC patients, because of higher TDI score among HPV-negative OPSCC patients compared with OTSCC patients. OPSCC patients more often used a removable prosthesis than OTSCC patients. Dental health of the cancer patients was poorer when compared with the population data.

Conclusions

Our study hypothesis was only partly confirmed. Periapical lesions were more prevalent among HPV-positive OPSCC patients, compared with the other groups. The number of residual roots was higher among HPV-negative subgroup. Thus, OPSCC patients had worse oral health parameters than OTSCC patients.
Weightlifting derivatives vs. plyometric exercises: Effects on unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance
Authors: Berton Ricardo , Silva Demostenys David da , Santos Marcel Lopes dos , Silva Claudio Machado Pinto e , Tricoli Valmor
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of weightlifting derivatives (WL) and plyometric exercises (PLYO) on unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance. Initially, 45 resistance-trained men underwent a 4-week WL learning period. Then, the participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (WL (n = 15), PLYO (n = 15), and control group (CG) (n = 15)) and followed a training period of 8 weeks. The WL group performed exercises to stimulate the entire force-velocity profile, while the PLYO group performed exercises with an emphasis in vertical- and horizontal-oriented. The CG did not perform any exercise. Pre- and post-training assessments included peak power output (PPO) and jump height (JH) in the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), CMJ with 60% and 80% of the body mass (CMJ60% and CMJ80%, respectively), and mean sprinting speeds over 5, 10, 20, and 30 m distances. From pre- to post-training, PLYO significantly increased (p≤0.05) PPO and JH in the SJ, PPO during CMJ, and PPO and JH in the CMJ60%; however, no significant changes were observed in JH during CMJ, and PPO and JH in the CMJ80%. For WL and CG, no significant changes were observed in the unloaded and loaded vertical jumps variables. PLYO also resulted in significant improvements (p≤0.05) for 5, 10, and 20 m sprint speeds, but not for 30 m. For WL and CG, no significant changes were observed for all sprint speeds. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that PLYO was more effective than a technically-oriented WL program to improve unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance.
Workplace violence, bullying, burnout, job satisfaction and their correlation with depression among Bangladeshi nurses: A cross-sectional survey during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chowdhury Saifur Rahman , Kabir Humayun , Mazumder Sinthia , Akter Nahida , Chowdhury Mahmudur Rahman , Hossain Ahmed
Published: September 2022

Background

Depression is one of the most serious yet understudied issues among Bangladeshi nurses, bringing health dangers to this workforce. This study aimed to investigate how workplace violence (WPV), bullying, burnout, and job satisfaction are correlated with depression and identify the factors associated with depression among Bangladeshi nurses.

Methods

For this cross-sectional study, data were collected between February 26, 2021, and July 10, 2021 from the Bangladeshi registered nurses. The Workplace Violence Scale (WPVS), the Short Negative Acts Questionnaire [S-NAQ], the Burnout Measure-Short version (BMS), the Short Index of Job Satisfaction (SIJS-5), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to measure WPV, bullying, burnout, job satisfaction, and depression, respectively. Inferential statistics include Pearson’s correlation test, t-test, one-way ANOVA test, multiple linear regression, and multiple hierarchal regression analyses were performed.

Results

The study investigated 1,264 nurses (70.02% female) with an average age of 28.41 years (SD = 5.54). Depression was positively correlated with WPV, bullying, and burnout and negatively correlated with job satisfaction (p <0.001). According to the multiple linear regression model, depression was significantly lower among nurses with diploma degrees (β = -1.323, 95% CI = -2.149 to -0.497) and bachelor’s degrees (β = -1.327, 95% CI = -2.131 to– 0.523) compared to the nurses with master’s degree. The nurses who worked extended hours (>48 hours) had a significantly higher depression score (β = 1.490, 95% CI = 0.511 to 2.470) than those who worked ≤ 36 hours. Depression was found to be significantly higher among those who did not receive a timely salary (β = 2.136, 95% CI = 1.138 to 3.134), rewards for good works (β = 1.862, 95% CI = 1.117 to 2.607), and who had no training on WPV (β = 0.895, 95% CI = 0.092 to 1.698).

Conclusions

Controlling burnout, bullying, and workplace violence, as well as improving the work environment for nurses and increasing job satisfaction, are the essential indicators of reducing depression. This can be accomplished with integrative support from hospital executives, policymakers, and government officials.
Agradecimento
Authors: CFF Cebrim /
Published: September 2022

Agradecimento
Nearly Abolished Dopamine Transporter Uptake in a Patient With a Novel FBXO7 Mutation
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Kim Seon Young , Seo Youngduk , Shin Chaewon
Published: September 2022

Mutations in the F-box only protein 7 (FBXO7) gene are the cause of autosomal recessive parkinsonian-pyramidal syndrome. Herein, we report a patient with a novel FBXO7 mutation with a unique clinical presentation. A 43-year-old male visited our hospital with complaints of progressing gait disturbance since a generalized tonic clonic seizure. There were no past neurological symptoms or familial disorders. Neurological examination revealed bradykinesia, masked face, stooped posture, parkinsonian gait, and postural instability. The bilateral uptake by dopamine transporters was nearly abolished, as determined by N-(3-[18F]fluoropropyl)- 2β-carbon ethoxy-3β-(4-iodophenyl) nortropane positron emission tomography (18F-FP-CIT PET). Next-generation sequencing revealed a heterozygous c.1066_1069delTCTG (p.Ser356ArgfsTer56) frameshift variant and a heterozygous c.80G>A (p.Arg27His) missense variant of the FBXO7 gene. The patient’s specific clinical features, medication-refractory parkinsonism and seizures further broaden the spectrum of FBXO7 mutations. The nearly abolished dopamine transporter uptake identified by 18F-FP-CIT PET is frequently found in patients with FBXO7 mutations, which is different from the usual rostrocaudal gradient that is observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease.