bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of oral anticoagulants in elderly patients with stable coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wu Yangxun , Lv Chao , Zhang Shizhao , Liu Haiping , Wang Yuyan , Zou Yuting , Qin Liu’an , Zhang Junmeng , Yin Tong
Published: July 2022

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral anticoagulants (OACs) in real-world elderly patients with comorbidities of stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) and atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods: Elderly patients (aged ≥ 65 years old) diagnosed with SCAD and AF were consecutively recruited and grouped into patients with or without OAC treatment. Follow-up was performed for 5 years. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were defined as a composite of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), nonfatal stroke, and systemic embolism. Major bleeding outcomes were defined as events that were type ≥ 3 based on the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) criteria. The net clinical outcomes were defined as the combination of MACEs and bleeding of BARC type ≥ 3.Results: A cohort of 832 eligible patients (78 ± 6.70 years) was included. Compared to the patients without OAC treatment (n=531, 63.82%), the patients treated with OAC (n=301, 36.18%) were much younger, had higher BMI, and had lower prevalence of heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), renal insufficiency, and previous myocardial infarction. During the follow-up of 5 years, compared to the patients without OAC treatment, patients with OAC had a significantly lower risk of MACEs (20.60% vs. 58.95%, adjusted HR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.15-0.30, p<0.001) but a higher risk of BARC ≥ 3 bleeding events (4.65% vs. 1.32%, adjusted HR: 4.71, 95% CI: 1.75-12.64, p = 0.002). In combination, a lower risk of net clinical outcomes could be observed in the patients with OACs (23.26% vs. 58.96%, adjusted HR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.19-0.38, p<0.001). Among the patients with OAC treatment, no significant difference was found for MACEs or BARC ≥ 3 bleeding events between the patients with or without comedications of oral antiplatelet agents.Conclusions: A net clinical benefit of efficacy and safety could be observed in OAC-treated elderly patients with SCAD and AF. This benefit is independent of the comedications of oral antiplatelet treatment.
Co-design and evaluation with construction workers of a virtual reality and force feedback modalities for gesture training
Authors: Hafsia Mehdi , Monacelli Eric , Ducoulombier Laure
Published: July 2022

Construction is one of the sectors most at risk in terms of health and safety. The social security system attributes more than 14\% of the accidents recorded in 2018 to the construction sector. In addition to safety risks, construction workers are exposed to occupational diseases. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are at the top list of the most frequent occupational diseases. In order to address these issues, construction companies have implemented health and safety policy to protect their employees. This policy provides, among other things, for an improvement in the organizational aspect of work, the adaptation of work to people and training. Training is carried out according to a classic methodology: theoretical and practical training. The training represents constraints of cost, duration and organization. The content must be adapted to specific profiles, be repeatable and allow the trainers to assess the level of the trainees. For training on the right gestures and posture to avoid the risk of MSDs, the impact of virtual reality (VR) training is less relevant due to the lack of haptic feedback. In this article, we propose to evaluate with the construction workers a new training methodology based on visual immersion and a robotic platform for haptic interaction with motion tracking. This methodology is evaluated for a particular task: the formwork panel adjustment, a highly risky operation on a highly sensitive tool.We believe that this approach would allow to better engage the construction workers during training on the formwork, to ensure their safety and awareness of MSD risks. The objective through this method is to enable the construction workers to understand the risks linked to their job, to train them to avoid risks, and to enable the trainer to benefit from a tool for monitoring and supporting the construction workers. In order to validate the methodology, experiments were conducted and questionnaires were submitted to two profiles of people: novices and professionals. This experimentation shows an acceptance of the solution by the construction workers.
Cricket bat Industry in Kashmir Valley: Wood quality parameters of Salix alba var. caerulea and Populus deltoides
Authors: Ahmad Nawaz , Rafeeq Jauhar
Published: July 2022

The present investigation was conducted in the Kashmir valley, India during the year 2017–2018. The main objective of this study was to assess the quality parameters of cleft that are used for cricket bat manufacturing. The units used wood of Salix alba var. caerulea as main raw material while Populus deltoides wood was also used for low quality bats. The mean values of moisture content, wood density and fiber length of wood samples of willow and poplar were 5.58% and 4.76%, 0.498 g cm -3 and 0.372 g cm-3, and 1.45 mm and 1.35 mm, respectively. Weight of the unfinished willow and poplar cleft was 2.03 kg and 1.76 kg, respectively. Studies conducted revealed that willow made bats were better than those made from Poplar.
Physicochemical, structural, and rheological properties of Colombian hawthorn yam (Dioscorea rotundata) flour: a product for food sovereignty
Authors: Quintana Somaris E. , Pérez-Mendoza Jaime , Zapateiro Luis A. García
Published: July 2022

Colombian hawthorn yam is a well-known edible food and pharmaceutical industry of interest for its components. This study aimed to obtain Colombian Hawthorn yam flour (CHYF) and characterize its proximal composition, physicochemical, and rheological properties. The identification of chemical composition by proximal and FTIR analysis; also, steady shear test, stress test, frequency sweep, temperature sweep and pasting properties analysis were done. CHYF has a high carbohydrate content (80.47 ± 1.14%) and different functional groups (C = O, COO, N–H and O-H). Flour particles (27µm to 43µm) have spherical-oval morphology with a smooth surface; also, the sample resent a non-Newtonian fluid type shear-thinning adjusted to the Power Law model (R2 > 0.99); and a typical strong gel material when storage modulus G' was higher than loss modulus G''. CHYF shows the highest paste temperature at 81.6 ° C with a PV of 750 cP. Then, it is a potential source of natural ingredients with technological properties for the food industry and the food sovereignty of many countries in the world.
Investigation on the biodegradation properties of low density polyethylene film/plasticized cassava starch blends for optimal environmental pollution control
Authors: Nwuzor Iheoma Chigoziri , Oyeoka Henry Chukwuka , Nwanonenyi Simeon Chukwudozie , Ihekweme Gina
Published: July 2022

Recently, polyethylene bags have become the highest source of environmental pollution due to long hydrocarbons contained in their polymer chains which hinders its degradation. The present study investigated biodegradation of low density polyethylene (LDPE) film and plasticized cassava starch (PCS) blends through casting methods. Five sample blends were produced by varying composition of LDPE and cassava starch (CS) using glycerol and water as plasticizers. Biodegradation behaviour of LDPE/PCS blends were determined by soil burial analysis within a period of 75 days. The results of the soil burial revealed continuous loss of weight with increased PCS content and number of days. Microanalysis was performed to isolate microorganisms from the active soil that contained the blend samples. The biodegradation was further confirmed by investigating the physical characterizations of the blend samples before and after biodegradation using international standards. The results of the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) revealed chemical functional group changes after biodegradation. The tensile strength of the blends decreased with increased PCS content and incubation period. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed biodegraded microstructures with continuous crack dissemination, cavities and rough surfaces after soil burial. This study has revealed the environmental compatibility and biodegradability of PCS on thermoplastics. It, therefore, concludes that the rate of biodegradation exhibited by the blends in this study will eventually expedite their continuous reduction in the soil if utilized frequently.
A blockchain-based platform for trading weather derivatives
Authors: Silveira Fernando Alves , Camilo Silvio Parodi de Oliveira
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the technical and economic viability of hedging electricity consumption using weather derivatives and smart contracts. For this purpose, we priced call options to hedge against excess of temperature for 5 Brazilian cities. We also developed a distributed autonomous application (DApp) using smart contracts, which allows individuals to negotiate these financial instruments. Our findings suggest that blockchain technology can be useful in providing a low-cost infrastructure to develop financial instruments to hedge weather-related losses. The cost of providing this platform has been estimated to be less than300 USD. The price of options has been estimated under 50 USD. This is particularly useful for electricity consumers and small businesses in poor countries. In addition, this study provides a comprehensive guide for the development of financial solutions using smart contracts to mitigate climate change impacts.
Triplanar Osteotomy Combined with Proximal Tibial Transverse Transport to Accelerate Healing of Recalcitrant Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Xu Jia , Li Shanyu , Sun Yunchu , Bao Bingbo , Zhu Tianhao , Kang Qinglin , Zheng Xianyou , Wen Gen
Published: July 2022

Background: Management of recalcitrant diabetic foot ulcers remains challenging. Tibial transverse transport (TTT) has been verified as an effective method for enhancing the healing of foot ulcers. This retrospective study reported a novel triplanar osteotomy in the tibia and assessed the clinical outcomes of TTT for diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: 59 patients with recalcitrant diabetic foot ulcers were divided into the TTT (32 patients) and control (27 patients) groups. In the TTT group, the patients underwent triplanar osteotomy of the proximal tibia, followed by 2 weeks of medial distraction and 2 weeks of lateral distraction. In the control group, the patients received conventional management, including debridement, revascularisation, and reconstruction. Ulcer healing and healing time, amputation, recurrence, and complications were assessed at an 18-month follow-up visit. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) was used to evaluate vessel changes in the lower limbs of patients in the TTT group. Results: The TTT group was superior to the control group in the healing rate (29/32 vs. 18/27) and the healing time (4.6 ± 1.7 months vs. 7.4 ± 2.5 months), respectively. The proportions of amputation and recurrence in the TTT group were lower than that in the control group, without statistical difference. After triplanar osteotomy and transverse distraction, CTA showed more small vessels in the wound area and ipsilateral limb. All patients achieved satisfactory union of the osteotomized bone fragment after removal of the external fixator. Conclusions: Triplanar osteotomy combined with proximal tibial transverse distraction accelerated wound healing and limb salvage caused by severe and recalcitrant diabetic foot ulcers. Triplanar osteotomy can not only increase the bone contact area, which is beneficial for rapid bone reconstruction, but also preserve the vascularisation of the bone fragment and substantially facilitate capillary angiogenesis during distraction. These results suggest that triplanar osteotomy followed by tibial transverse distraction is an effective method for treating diabetic foot ulcers.
Association Between Enhanced Carbonyl Stress and Decreased Apparent Axonal Density in Schizophrenia by Multimodal White Matter Imaging. Running title: Carbonyl Stress and Axon in Schizophrenia
Authors: Son Shuraku , Arai Makoto , Toriumi Kazuya , Andica Christina , Matsuyoshi Daisuke , Kamagata Koji , Aoki Shigeki , Kawashima Takahiro , Hayashi Takuya , Okada Tomohisa , Fushimi Yasutaka , Nakamoto Yuji , Kobayashi Yuko , Murai Toshiya , Itokawa Masanari , Miyata Jun
Published: July 2022

Carbonyl stress is a condition featuring increased rich reactive carbonyl compounds, which facilitate the formation of advanced glycation end products including pentosidine. We previously reported the relationship between enhanced carbonyl stress and disrupted white matter integrity in schizophrenia, although which microstructural component is disrupted remained unclear. In this study, 32 patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) and 45 age-and gender-matched healthy volunteers (HC) were recruited. We obtained blood samples for carbonyl stress markers (plasma pentosidine and serum pyridoxal) and multi-modal magnetic resonance imaging measures of white mater microstructures including apparent axonal density (intra-cellular volume fraction (ICVF)) and orientation (orientation dispersion index (ODI)), myelin content (calibrated T1-weigted/T2-weighted image ratio), and inflammation (free water (FW)). In SCZ, the plasma pentosidine level was significantly increased. Group comparison revealed that mean white matter values were decreased for ICVF, increased for FW, and not different for the myelin component. We found a significant negative correlation between the plasma pentosidine level and mean ICVF values in SCZ, and a significant negative correlation between the serum pyridoxal level and mean ODI value in HC, regardless of age. Our results suggest an association between enhanced carbonyl stress and axonal abnormality in SCZ.
High RIG-I and EFTUD2 expression predicts poor survival in endometrial cancer
Authors: Beyer Susanne , Müller Lena , Mitter Sophie , Keilmann Lucia , Meister Sarah , Buschmann Christina , Kraus Fabian , Topalov Nicole E , Czogalla Bastian , Trillsch Fabian , Burges Alexander , Mahner Sven , Schmoeckel Elisa , Löb Sanja , Corradini Stefanie , Kessler Mirjana , Jeschke Udo , Kolben Thomas
Published: July 2022

Purpose
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological malignancy. The helicase RIG-I, a part of the innate immune system, and EFTUD2, a splicing factor which can upregulate RIG-I expression, are shown to influence tumor growth and disease progression in several malignancies. For endometrial cancer, an immunogenic cancer, data about RIG-I and EFTUD2 are still missing. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of RIG-I and EFTUD2 in endometrial cancer.
Methods
225 specimen of endometrial cancer were immunohistochemically stained for RIG-I and EFTUD2. The results were correlated to clinicopathological data, overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).
Results
High RIG-I expression correlated with advanced tumor stages (FIGO: p = 0.027; pT: p = 0.010) and worse survival rates (OS: p = 0.009; PFS: p = 0.022). High EFTUD2 expression correlated to worse survival rates (OS: p = 0.026; PFS: p < 0.001) and was determined to be an independent marker for survival rates.
Conclusion
Our data suggest that the expression of RIG-I and EFTUD2 correlates with survival data, which makes both a possible therapeutic target in the future.
Probability of continued local-scale warming and extreme events during and after decarbonization
Authors: Diffenbaugh Noah , Barnes Elizabeth , Keys Patrick
Published: July 2022

While achieving net-zero emissions is likely to stabilize the long-term global temperature, the possibility of continued warming and extreme events could cause those efforts to be perceived as a failure. Leveraging decarbonization scenarios from multiple global climate models, we find that much of the world faces >30% probability of decadal warming after net-zero CO2 emissions are achieved, and most areas exhibit >10% probability of exceeding the most extreme hot and wet events of the decarbonization period. Further, substantial fractions of the global population and gross domestic product could experience post-net-zero warming, including hundreds of millions of people and trillions of dollars in the United States, China and India during the decade following net-zero. This likelihood highlights the possibility that some of the most populous, wealthy, and powerful regions may experience climatic conditions that could be perceived – at least in the near-term – to indicate that climate stabilization policies have failed.
Phytest: Quality Control for Phylogenetic Analyses
Authors: Wirth Wytamma , Mutch Simon , Turnbull Robert , Duchene Sebastian
Published: July 2022

Motivation: The ability to automatically conduct quality control checks on phylogenetic analyses is becoming more important with the increase of genetic sequencing and use of real-time pipelines e.g. in the SARS-CoV-2 era. Implementations of ”nowcasting” or real-time phylogenetic analyses require automated testing to make sure that problems in the data are caught automatically within analysis pipelines and in a timely manner. Here we present Phytest (version 1.0) a tool for automating quality control checks on sequence, trees and metadata during phylogenetic analyses. Results: Phytest is a phylogenetic analysis testing program that easily integrates into existing phylogenetic pipelines. We demonstrate the utility of Phytest with real-world examples. Availability: Phytest source code available on GitHub (https://github.com/phytest-devs/phytest) and can be installed via PyPI with the command ‘pip install phytest‘. Extensive documentation can be found at https://phytest-devs.github.io/phytest/. Contact: wytamma.wirth@unimelb.edu.au
Long COVID affects home-isolated young patients
Authors: Blomberg Bjorn , Mohn Kristin , Brokstad Karl Albert , Linchausen Dagrunn , Hansen Bent-Are , Jalloh Sarah Lartey , Kuwelker Kanika , Zhou Fan , Saevik Marianne , Bartsch Hauke , Tondel Camilla , Kittang Bard , Cox Rebecca , Langeland Nina ,   Bergen COVID-19 Study Group
Published: July 2022

Long-term complications following COVID-19 are common in hospitalised patients, but the spectrum of symptoms in milder cases remains unclear. In a Norwegian prospective cohort study of 312 patients, 61% of COVID-19 patients (247 home-isolated and 65 hospitalised) had persistent symptoms at six months, most commonly fatigue (37%), impaired concentration (26%), disturbed smell and/or taste (25%), memory loss (24%) and dyspnoea (21%). In young home-isolated adults, aged 16–30, 52% had symptoms at six months, with fatigue (21%), dyspnoea (13%), impaired concentration (13%) and memory loss (11%) posing particular challenges. Pre-existing chronic lung disease and high convalescent antibody titres predicted persistent symptoms, particularly fatigue. Our finding that young, home-isolated adults with mild COVID-19 are at risk of long-lasting dyspnoea and cognitive symptoms highlights the importance of infection control measures, such as vaccination.
Ultrasound-Assisted Electrodeposition Synthesis of nZVI-Pd/AC Toward Reductive Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Long Yingtao , Liang Jianjun , Xue Yinghao
Published: July 2022

A novel composite (nZVI/Pd-AC) was prepared by loading nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) and Pd on activated carbon (AC) electrode under electrodeposition with ultrasound, which was used to conduct reductive degradation of methylene blue (MB). The loading contents of Fe and Pd were 15.84% and 2.06%, respectively. XPS results further confirmed that the resulting material contained Fe0 and Pd0. Without external conditions, MB could be degraded on the surface of nZVI/Pd-AC and reach equilibrium within 180 min. To investigate the regeneration property, re-electrodeposition strategy was effective to refresh the active sites of nZVI/Pd-AC, and the removal efficiency only reduced by 4.51% in five circles indicating the good reusability of nZVI/Pd-AC composites. GC-MS was used to identify a possible degradation pathways of MB, the results showed that the degradation products were mainly N, N-dimethylaniline and 2-amino-5-dimethylamino-benzenesulfonic acid. And the S-C, C-N bonds are the sites easier to be attacked.
A Metal-Cap Wedge Shape Hybrid Plasmonic Waveguide for Nano-Scale Light Confinement and Long Propagation Range
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Kumar Pintu , Ranjan Rakesh
Published: July 2022

A metal-cap wedge shape hybrid plasmonic waveguide (WSHPW) has been investigated, for the nano-scale light confinement and long propagation range, in order to analyze the optical properties, such as propagation length, normalized effective mode area, etc., of the fundamental hybrid mode at the wavelength of 1550 nm . Due to the wedge shape structure of high-index region (AlGaAs), the energy is mostly confined at the top of it, inside the low-index region. This results in significant improvement in the propagation length. The modal analysis has been done, using the finite element method, by varying the width of waveguide, wedge angle, permittivity of high- and low-index regions, and heights of metal, high- and low-index regions. The analysis has been further extended for different metal, such as Silver (Ag), Gold (Au) and Aluminum (Al). From the simulation results, it has been established that the propagation length (Lp) > 490 um, can be achieved for the fundamental mode propagation. Further, the investigations on coupling length (Lc) between the two parallel WSHPWs have been done, which has been achieved as small as 6.10 um, for the waveguide separation of 100 nm, and waveguide width of
Age-related heterogeneity in immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 following BNT162b2 vaccination
Authors: Ferreira Isabella A.T.M. , Datir Rawlings , Kotagiri Prasanti , Lim Eleanor , Meng Bo , Bergamaschi Laura ,   The CITIID-NIHR BioResource COVID-19 Collaboration, Elmer Anne , Kingston Nathalie , Graves Barbara , Gresley Emma Le , Caputo Daniela , McCoy Laura , Smith Kenneth GC , Bradley John R. , Ceron-Gutierrez Lourdes , Cortes-Acevedo Paulina , Barcenas-Morales Gabriela , Lyons Paul A. , McKinney Eoin , Doffinger Rainer , Wills Mark , Gupta Ravindra
Published: July 2022

Vaccines remain the cornerstone for containing the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. mRNA vaccines provide protection in clinical trials using a two-dose approach, separated by a three to four week gap. UK policy in 2021 is to extend the dosing interval from three to twelve weeks and other countries are likely to follow suit given the demand for mRNA vaccines and ongoing uncontrolled transmission. There is a paucity of data in the elderly, even though these individuals are the first to receive vaccines due to risk of severe disease. Here we assessed real world immune responses following vaccination with mRNA-based vaccine BNT162b2.
Median age was 81 years amongst 101 participants after the first dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Geometric mean neutralisation titres in participants over 80 years old after the first dose were lower than in younger individuals [83.4 (95% CI 52.0-133.7) vs 46.6 (95% CI 33.5-64.8) p 0.01]. A lower proportion of participants 80 years and older achieved adequate neutralisation titre of >1:20 for 50% neutralisation as compared to those under 80 (21% vs 51%, p 0.003). Binding IgG responses correlated with neutralisation. Sera from participants in both age groups showed significantly lower neutralisation potency against B.1.1.7 Spike pseudotyped viruses as compared to wild type. The adjusted ORs for inadequate neutralisation in the 80 years and above age group were 3.7 (95% CI 1.2-11.2) and 4.4 (95% CI 1.5-12.6) against wild type and B.1.1.7 pseudotyped viruses. We observed a trend towards lower somatic hypermutation in participants with suboptimal neutralisation, and elderly participants demonstrated clear reduction in class switched somatic hypermutation, driven by the IgA1/2 isotype. SARS-CoV-2 Spike specific T- cell IFN𝛾 and IL-2 responses were impaired in the older age group after 1 dose and although IFN𝛾 increased between vaccine doses, IL-2 responses did not significantly increase. There was a significantly higher risk of suboptimal neutralising antibody and T cell response following first dose vaccination with BNT162b2 in half of participants above the age of 80, persisting up to 12 weeks. These high risk populations warrant specific measures in order to mitigate against vaccine failure, particularly where SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern are circulating.
Why the Electron Energy Balance During the Thermo-Field Emission From Refractory Metal Micro-Protrusions Can Trigger a Thermal Instability ?
Authors: Mofakhami Darius , Seznec Benjamin , Minea Tiberiu , Landfried Romaric , Teste Philippe , Dessante Philippe
Published: July 2022

The electron emission by micro-protrusions has been studied for over a century, but the complete explanation of the unstable behaviors and their origin remains an open issue. These systems often evolve towards vacuum breakdown, which makes experimental studies of instabilities very difficult. Modeling studies are therefore necessary. In our model, refractory metals have shown the most striking results for discontinuities or jumps recorded on the electron emitted current under high applied voltages. Herein, we provide evidence on the mechanisms responsible for the initiation of a thermal instability during the field emission from refractory metal micro-protrusions. A jump in the emission current at steady state is found beyond a threshold electric field, and it is correlated to a similar jump in temperature. These jumps are related to a transient runaway of the resistive heating that occurs after the Nottingham flux inversion. That causes the hottest region to move beneath the apex, and generates an emerging heat reflux towards the emitting surface. Two additional conditions are required to initiate the runaway. The emitter geometry must ensure a large emission area and the thermal conductivity must be high enough at high temperatures so that the heat reflux can significantly compete with the heat diffusion towards the thermostat. The whole phenomenon, that we propose to call the Nottingham Inversion Instability, can explain unexpected thermal failures and breakdowns observed with field emitters.
Shared Genetic Architecture Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders: A Large-scale Genome-wide Cross-trait Analysis
Authors: Adewuyi Emmanuel O , O’Brien Eleanor K , Nyholt Dale R , Porter Tenielle , Laws Simon M
Published: July 2022

Background: Consistent with the concept of the gut-brain phenomenon, observational studies have reported a pattern of co-occurring relationship between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and a range of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) traits. However, it is not clear whether the reported association reflects a causal or shared genetic aetiology of GIT disorders with AD. While AD has no known curative treatments, and its pathogenesis is not clearly understood, a comprehensive assessment of its shared genetics with diseases (comorbidities) can provide a deeper understanding of its underlying biological mechanisms and enhance potential therapy development. Methods: We analysed large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary data (sample size = 34,652 – 456,327) to comprehensively assess shared genetic overlap and causality of GIT disorders with the risk of AD. Further, we performed meta-analyses, pairwise GWAS analysis; and investigated genes and biological pathways shared by AD and GIT disorders.Results: Our analyses reveal significant concordance of SNP risk effects across AD and GIT disorders (Ppermuted = 9.99 × 10−4). Also, we found a significant positive genetic correlation between AD and each of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), medications for GERD or PUD (PGM), gastritis-duodenitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticular disease, but not inflammatory bowel disease. Mendelian randomisation analyses found no evidence for a significant causal association between AD and GIT disorders. However, shared independent genome-wide significant (Pmeta-analysis < 5 × 10-8) loci (including 1p31.3 [near gene, PDE4B], 1q32.2 [CD46], 3p21.31 [SEMA3F], 16q22.1 [MTSS2], 17q21.33 [PHB], and 19q13.32 [APOE]) were identified for AD and PGM, six of which are putatively novel. These loci were replicated using GERD and PUD GWAS and reinforced in pairwise GWAS (colocalisation) as well as gene-based analyses. Lipid metabolism, autoimmune system, lipase inhibitors, PD-1 signalling, and statin mechanisms were significantly enriched in pathway-based analyses. Conclusions: These findings support shared genetic susceptibility of GIT disorders with AD risk and provide new insights into their observed association. The identified loci and genes—PDE4B, CD46 and APOE, especially—and biological pathways—statins and lipase inhibitors, in particular—may provide novel therapeutic avenues or targets for further investigation in AD, GIT disorders, or their comorbidity.
EFFECT OF DEXAMETHASONE AS AN ADJUVANT TO BUPIVACAINE IN ULTRASOUND GUIDED INTERSCALENE BRACHIAL PLEXUS BLOCK IN UPPER ARM SURGERIES
Authors:   Associate Professor of Anaesthesia AMCMET Medical College, LG Hospital, Maninagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat,India, 380008., Kapdi Manisha , Raj Aishwarya ,   Senior resident of Anaesthesia, AMCMET Medical College, LG Hospital, Maninagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, 380008., Modi Shreya ,   Resident of Anaesthesia, AMCMET Medical College, LG Hospital, Maninagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, 380008.
Published: July 2022

Background:Ultrasound (US) in regional anaesthesia offers a new standard in nerve location and identification, allows real-time imaging of nerves and direct needle guidance.In present study we have access efficacy and safety of Dexamethasone as adjuvant to US guided Interscalene block for Upper arm surgeries. Aims:The study was conducted to compare the efficacy of Dexamethasone as an adjuvant to Bupivacaine in ultrasound guided interscalene brachial plexus block to provide intraoperative anaesthesia and postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing upper arm surgeries and to evaluate Hemodynamic Stability Methods:Present study was conducted at tertiary care hospital on 60 patients posted for elective upper arm surgeries, with ASA grade I and II, in age group of 18-70 years. The patients were randomly divided into 2 groups â€“ Group A and Group B. All patients were given ultrasound guided interscalene block with 15 ml of 0.5% Plain Bupivacaine. Inj. Dexamethasone 8mg was added to local anaesthetic drug in Group A and 0.9% normal saline 2ml was added in Group B. All patients received 17 ml of volume of study drug perineurally. All blocks were successful to provide surgical anaesthesia and analgesia.Both the groups were evaluated for onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, duration of analgesia, perioperative haemodynamic stability, total number of analgesic requests in 24 hours and any adverse reactions/complications. Results: Both the groups were comparable with respect to patient characteristics. In our study, Onset of sensory block was faster in Group A (3.866 Â± 1.33 mins)compared to Group B (7.566 Â± 1.67 mins) (p value <0.0001). Onset of motor block was faster in Group A (7.933mins) compared to Group B (11.733 mins) (p <0.0001). Duration of mean sensory block was longer in Group A (904 mins) compared to Group B (305.33mins)(p<0.0001).Duration of mean motor block was longer in Group A (861 mins) compared to Group B (264.33mins) (p< 0.0001). Mean Duration of analgesia was longer in Group A (1455.86 mins)compared to Group B (806.16 mins) (p<0.0001). Total number of analgesic requests was less in Group A (1.2 ) compared to Group B (2.37 ) (p <0.0001).Both groups showed perioperative haemodynamic stability. And no adverse reactions or complications were observed in any patient in Group A, whereas 2 patients (6.67%) in Group B had Postoperative Nausea Vomiting.
A STUDY OF PREVALANCE OF OSA IN APPARENTLY HEALTHY ADULT POPULATION AND INDIVIDUALS WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME- CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors:   Junior Resident Department of Pulmonary Medicine Eras Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow., Singh Apoorva , Prasad Rajendra ,   Professor and Head, Department of Pulmonary Medicine Eras Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow., Fatima Jalees ,   Professor and Head, Department of Medicine, Eras Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow., Verma Anand ,   Senior Medical Officer, Department of Pulmonary Medicine Eras Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow.
Published: July 2022

Aim: To compare prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients and age, sex-matched controls without MetS. Materials & Methods: A total of 50 MetS patients (as per IDF criteria) and a total of 100 age and sex-matched individuals without MetS were enrolled in the study as cases and controls. Screening for OSA was done using Berlin Questionnaire. OSA prevalence was ascertained by polysomnography. Apnea-Hypopnea index (AHI) 5-15, 16-30 and >30 was considered as mild, moderate and severe OSA. Data was analyzed using Chi-square and Independent sample t-tests. Results: Mean age of cases was 50.80Ã‚Â±10.16 years. Majority of cases were males (80%). Mean BMI, waist circumference, SBP, DBP, FBS and TG of cases were significantly higher while mean HDL was significantly lower as compared to that of controls (p<0.001). Number of MetS factors 3, 4 and 5 were seen in 28%, 34% and 38% respectively in cases and 0, 1, 2 and 3 in 22%, 47%, 30% and 1% controls respectively (p<0.001). Prevalence of OSA was 58% in cases as compared to 20% in controls (p<0.001). Mild, moderate and severe OSA was seen in 10%, 22% and 26% of cases and 12%, 6% and 2% of controls (p<0.001). On overall evaluation and in case groups, there was a significant increase in prevalence and severity of OSA (p<0.05). Conclusion: MetS patients were at a high risk for moderate to severe OSA. Clinical Significance: Prevention and control of OSA must be targeted as the treatment goal in MetS.
Brain and Computer Interface
Authors: Kaswan Kuldeep Singh , Dhatterwal Jagjit Singh
Published: July 2022

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are defined as the science and technology
of devices and systems responding to neural processes in the brain that generate motor
movements and to cognitive processes (e.g., memory) that modify motor movements.
Advances in neuroscience, computational technology, component miniaturization, the
biocompatibility of materials, and sensor technology have led to the much-improved
feasibility of useful BCIs. Brain-Computer Interface can be developed by engineers,
neuroscientists, physical scientists, and behavioral and social scientists as a team effort.
A study on brain computers (BCI) discusses how the brain and external systems
interact. In intrusive systems, electrodes are implanted in the cortex; in non-invasive
systems, they are mounted on the scalp and use electroencephalography or
electrocorticography to monitor neuronal activity. The BCI systems can be generally
ranked based on the location of the electrodes used for detecting and measuring
neurons in the brain. This WTEC report was intended to compile and reveal to
government decision-makers and the scientific community the information on global
developments and patterns in BCI research. The design of hardware, device
architecture, functional electrical stimulation, non-invasive systems of communication,
academic and industrial cognitive and emotional neuroprosthesis has been discussed in
this chapter. The purpose of the present chapter is to review the current sensor
technologies used for invasive and non-invasive BCI approaches throughout North
America, Europe, and Asia. We have visited and/or interacted with key laboratories
with expertise in these areas. Although not completely comprehensive, this chapter
gives an overview of the major sensor technologies being developed for potential BCI
applications.
Bankruptcy Prediction Model Using an Enhanced Boosting Classifier based on Sequential Backward Selector Technique
Authors: Soui Makram , Namani Zitouni Nada , Smiti Salima , Kumar Kailash , Aljabr Ahmad
Published: July 2022

Corporate bankruptcy prediction is one of the most crucial issues that impact
the economic field, both on the local and global scale. The primary purpose of
bankruptcy prediction is to investigate the economic state of any corporation and
evaluate its distress level. Several machine learning and deep learning models have
been used to predict financial failure. However, there is still no technique that resolves
all the problems faced in this field. As such, we propose a machine learning model that
constitutes a feature selection phase and a classification phase to predict corporate
bankruptcy. This technique combines the sequential backward selector (SBS) with
AdaBoost and JRip algorithms. The first phase uses SBS to select the best subset of
features for the training. The second phase trains the AdaBoost with the JRip classifier
to predict each target class. This model is evaluated using the highly imbalanced Polish
bankruptcy dataset. The comparative analysis of our model with other techniques
proves the efficiency in predicting corporate bankruptcy with an average of 91% of the
AUC metric.
The Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of Re-Search Conducted Using Computational Intelligence for the Diagnosis or Treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Kappi Mallikarjun , S. Madhu , Biradar Balabhim Sankrappa , Kannappanavar B.U.
Published: July 2022

The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a large number of
studies targeted at understanding, monitoring, and containing the disease. However, it
is still unclear whether the studies performed so far have filled existing knowledge
gaps. We used computational intelligence (CI)/Machine Learning (ML) technologies
and alliance areas to analyse this massive amount of information at scale. This chapter
assesses the scholarly progress and prominent research domains in the use of CI/ML
technologies in COVID-19 research, focusing on the specific literature on
computational intelligence and related fields that have been employed for “diagnosis
and treatment” of COVID-19 patients.The “Web of Science” database was used to
retrieve all existing and highly cited papers published up to November 2020. Based on
bibliometric indicators, a search query (“Computational Intelligence or Neural
Networks or Fuzzy Systems or Evolutionary Computation & Diagnosis or Treatment &
Coronavirus or Corona Virus or COVID-19”) was used to retrieve the data sets. The
growth of research publications, elements of research activities, publication patterns,
and research focus tendencies were computed using ‘Biblioshiny’ software and data
visualization software ‘VOS viewer.’ Further, bibliometric/scientometrics techniques
were incorporated to know the most productive countries, most preferred sources &
their impact, three-field plot, and the most cited papers. This analysis provides a
comprehensive overview of the “COVID-19” and CI-related research, helping
researchers, policymakers, and practitioners better understand COVID-19 related CI research and its possible practical impact. Future CI / ML Studies should be committed
to filling the gap between CI / ML research.
Blockchain Based Hybrid Framework for Identity Management in Healthcare
Authors: Sharma Deepak Kumar , Khera Arjun , Gupta Koyel Datta , Dwivedi Rinky
Published: July 2022

Healthcare systems face numerous impediments due to the unavailability of
proper mechanisms to track the transactions related to patient’s medical records. The
maintenance and privacy of patient records are one of the key requirements of the
healthcare system. Blockchain can be the potential solution to these problems.
Blockchains have made a tremendous impact ever since their invention barely a decade
ago. This paper delves into how blockchain can be used to solve the problem of patient
record management by constructing scalable decentralised key systems with inbuilt
sharing of credentials in a safe, secure, and digitally verifiable way. The work presents
a hybrid scalable system capable of managing personal identity in a decentralized
manner with no dependence on central authorities along with a rapid and simplistic
way of exchanging claims among the users. The system overcomes potentially all
problems associated with SOVRIN and blockchains in general by splitting itself into
two symbiotic versions, one centralised and the other, decentralised.
Application of IoT in Patient Health Monitoring System
Authors: Dwivedi Rinky , Mittal Harshit , Agarwal Manik
Published: July 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the infrastructure that enables the process of
collecting data using various devices which in turn communicate with each other and
store this data over the cloud. This helps to retrieve, analyze, and communicate data to
any part of the world faster with great efficiency. IoT has indeed opened the doors to
endless new possibilities in different areas and industries. From smart home appliances
to remotely observing and controlling different objects to self-driven cars and whatnot.
The healthcare industry has still not leveraged the true power of this modern IoT
revolution. Specifically, when it comes to monitoring the health of elderly people, the
techniques used today are still not robust and lack conviction. This has been an area of
concern for a long time, and it is an even bigger challenge to remotely monitor the
health condition. In this paper, our goal is to depict the current situation of the
technology of the health monitoring projects based on IoT and propose an
improvement in the actual practices currently prevalent in remote monitoring of the
health of elderly people. We will also try to forecast the trend of various health
parameters demonstrated in the paper beforehand to make the concerned people aware
with precision if any alarming situation is spotted so that instant action can be taken,
thus ensuring a reduction of casualties.
IoT Based Verified and Public Vehicle Registration through BlockChain: Future Smart Cities based Applications with Sustainable Approach
Authors: Rastogi Rohit , Sharma Bhuvneshwar , Kumar Pardeep , Gupta Muskan
Published: July 2022

Blockchain technology replaces centralized applications with distributed
computing. Modern economy is estimated by the place of motor transport in the
infrastructure of the national economy. An automobile registration system is a unified
information system. This information system takes care of every information about
automobile registration. It is administrated by a national registry entity and has access
to other government and non-government services that handle automobile information.
Cyber Physical System (CPS) is defined as the combination of computation and
physical process. It is mainly used in the ICT section. It is also focused on resolving the
problems related to authors of the data regarding transparency, media, and storage
problems by technical handling.
The presented chapter uses all the above concepts in one place and integrates them to
build a useful application. The presented frame allows car manufacturers, owners,
repairing companies, and insurance agencies to register and add new car entries
through a simple method. In addition, database technology has been leveraged to cache
intermediate data. It efficiently uses the Industrial IoT and 5G technologies.
Many researchers have called for rules and applications to draw old maps based on
distributed applications into the blockchain. New protocols are available in this work
for the International Automated Vehicle Management System, called DriveLoop,
which were proposed and developed.
Het verlies van voorzieningen
Authors: Christiaanse Suzan
Published: July 2022

Wim Sonneveld zong in de jaren ‘50 over ‘ons dorp’, met de bakker en de slager en alles wat verandert. Nu sluiten de basisschool, sportclub of supermarkt, en als ik de krantenkoppen mag geloven doet de sluiting van voorzieningen nog steeds pijn. Maar waarom eigenlijk?
Vernieuwde beleidsaandacht voor het platteland
Authors: Lox Simon
Published: July 2022

De EU heeft een landbouwbeleid en een plattelandsbeleid, samen het Gemeenschappelijk Landbouwbeleid (GLB). Er wordt een nieuw GLB opgemaakt, wat hevige discussies opwekt over de te spenderen miljarden, maar ook over de toekomst van het platteland. AGORA sprak professor landbouwbeleid Guido van Huylenbroeck om te weten te komen wat er op het spel staat.
Virtueel Venetië: een succesverhaal?
Authors: Gruijthuijsen Wesley , van Broeck Anne Marie , van der Borg Jan
Published: July 2022

Corona heeft het internationaal reizen voor zowel toeristische als onderwijsdoeleinden grotendeels stilgelegd. De impact raakt niet alleen de reizigers, maar treft natuurlijk ook de bestemmingen. Veel ondernemers hebben daarom ingezet op virtueel toerisme. Maar zijn toeristen eigenlijk wel opzoek naar virtuele toeristische ervaringen?
Infographic Rurale Idylle: feit of fictie?
Authors: AGORA Hoofdredactie
Published: July 2022

De woontevredenheid is het hoogste buiten de stad. Hoge tevredenheid met de woning, maar niet omgeving, zien we dichtbij de Randstad. Voor hogere omgevingskwaliteit moeten we verder het land in. Wegen we naar inwoners, dan zien we dat Nederlanders vooral in regio's met lage woontevredenheid wonen. Ook de hechting en het thuisgevoel zijn hoger op het platteland. Voor wonen zit er toch een kern van waarheid in de rurale idylle.
The Stroke Recovery in Motion Implementation Planner: Mixed Methods User Evaluation
Authors: Reszel Jessica , van den Hoek Joan , Nguyen Tram , Aravind Gayatri , Bayley Mark T , Bird Marie-Louise , Edwards Kate , Eng Janice J , Moore Jennifer L , Nelson Michelle L A , Ploughman Michelle , Richardson Julie , Salbach Nancy M , Tang Ada , Graham Ian D
Published: July 2022

Background

As more people are surviving stroke, there is a growing need for services and programs that support the long-term needs of people living with the effects of stroke. Exercise has many benefits; however, most people with stroke do not have access to specialized exercise programs that meet their needs in their communities. To catalyze the implementation of these programs, our team developed the Stroke Recovery in Motion Implementation Planner, an evidence-informed implementation guide for teams planning a community-based exercise program for people with stroke.

Objective

This study aimed to conduct a user evaluation to elicit user perceptions of the usefulness and acceptability of the Planner to inform revisions.

Methods

This mixed methods study used a concurrent triangulation design. We used purposive sampling to enroll a diverse sample of end users (program managers and coordinators, rehabilitation health partners, and fitness professionals) from three main groups: those who are currently planning a program, those who intend to plan a program in the future, and those who had previously planned a program. Participants reviewed the Planner and completed a questionnaire and interviews to identify positive features, areas of improvement, value, and feasibility. We used descriptive statistics for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data. We triangulated the data sources to identify Planner modifications.

Results

A total of 39 people participated in this study. Overall, the feedback was positive, highlighting the value of the Planner’s comprehensiveness, tools and templates, and real-world examples. The identified areas for improvement included clarifying the need for specific steps, refining navigation, and creating more action-oriented content. Most participants reported an increase in knowledge and confidence after reading the Planner and reported that using the resource would improve their planning approach.

Conclusions

We used a rigorous and user-centered process to develop and evaluate the Planner. End users indicated that it is a valuable resource and identified specific changes for improvement. The Planner was subsequently updated and is now publicly available for community planning teams to use in the planning and delivery of evidence-informed, sustainable, community-based exercise programs for people with stroke.