bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic potential of pupilloplasty combined with phacomulsification and intraocular lens implantation against uveitis-induced cataract
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China, Lu Hui , Zhu Si-Quan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, China
Published: September 2022

AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of pupilloplasty combined with phacomulsification and intraocular lens implantation (PPI) in uveitis-induced cataract.
METHODS: Total 28 patients with uveitis-induced cataract were enrolled. Within 3mo before the PPI, 7 cases accompanied with glaucoma maintained carteolol hydrochloride for lowering intraocular pressure, and 1 case maintained glucocorticoid for anti-inflammation. The baseline characteristics, treatment processes, and outcomes of enrolled cases were retrospectively analyzed. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed to reveal the histopathological changes of iris tissues.
RESULTS: Iris hemorrhage was the only intraoperative complication observed in 2 cases. After the surgery, normal intraocular pressure, right position of intraocular lens, and improved visual gain [best corrected visual acuity (BCVA)>0.5] were achieved. Postoperative keratic precipitates was observed in 2 cases, which was recovered within 1wk. During the follow-up of 5-10y, no recurrence of uveitis was found in 27 cases (96.43%). Uveitis only recurred in one case with the onset of ankylosing spondylitis. HE staining showed iris stroma (all samples), pigment cell hyperplasia in pigment epithelium (n=9) and stroma (n=19), inflammatory cell infiltration in iris (n=7), and neovascularization in iris surface (n=2).
CONCLUSION: PPI improves the visual gain and prevents the long-term recurrence of uveitis in patients with uveitis-induced cataract, including those with preoperative intraocular pressure abnormality (glaucoma) and inflammation (active uveitis). Uveitis presents stroma atrophy, pigment cell hyperplasia, and inflammatory cell infiltration, even in a quiet state.
Microbial spectrum and risk factors of endogenous endophthalmitis in a tertiary center of Northern China
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China, Gan Lin-Yang , Zhou Hui-Ying ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China, Min Han-Yi ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China, Zheng Lin ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
Published: September 2022

AIM: To study the clinical features, microbial spectrum, associated factors and prognosis of endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) in a group of Chinese patients.
METHODS: The medical records from 32 eyes of 29 patients diagnosed with EE in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2009 to October 2019 were reviewed.
RESULTS: The initial visual acuity (VA) of 30 eyes in this study was worse than 20/400. Twenty-three eyes were diagnosed with fungal endophthalmitis and nine with bacterial endophthalmitis. The most common fungal and bacterial isolates were Candida and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. Several rare fungi and bacteria species were also isolated from our patients, including Cryptococcus, Paecilomyces, Brucella, and Bacillus licheniformis. The leading risk factor for EE was diabetes. The most common extraocular infection locus was genitourinary tract. Vitrectomy was performed on twenty-nine eyes. Eight eyes achieved final VA of 20/400 or better. EE caused by Candida had a better prognosis.
CONCLUSION: The visual outcome of EE is based on pathogens and prompt intervention. Early vitrectomy and antimicrobial treatment are beneficial for EE.
EFICIÊNCIA TÉCNICA E ECONÔMICA DO CAPIM-JIGGS (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.) SUBMETIDO A DIFERENTES DOSES DE ADUBAÇÃO MINERAL E ORGANOMINERAL
Authors: ZANROSSO Evandro , BUSNELLO Fábio José , Olias Caroline , SAUER Aline Vanessa , LAJÚS Cristiano Reschke
Published: September 2022

Para expressar seu potencial o Capim-Jiggs depende de condições edafoclimáticas específicas, além da fertilidade do associando à doses de adubação mineral e organomineral, justificando a avaliação da capacidade adaptativa  e o potencial forrageiro na região, implicando em produção animal abaixo do preconizado. A pesquisa possuiu por objetivo avaliar a eficiência técnica e econômica do Capim-Jiggs submetido a doses de adubação mineral e organomineral. O experimento foi implantado na área rural localizada no Município de Chapecó-SC, durante o segundo semestre de 2020 e primeiro semestre de 2021. O delineamento experimental foi o Delineamento em Blocos Casualizados (DBC) em esquema de parcela subdividida ao longo do tempo (5 x 4), com 5 repetições, sendo que na parcela principal foram alocadas as adubações (Testemunha; 50% da dose recomendada de adubo organomineral – 250kg de 10-10-10; 100% da dose recomendada de adubo organomineral – 500kg de 10-10-10;150% da dose recomendada de adubo organomineral – 750kg de 10-10-10 e Adubação mineral – 240 kg de 09-24-10 e nas subparcelas ao longo do tempo foram alocados os cortes (1º Corte: 02/01/21; 2º Corte: 04/02/21; 3º Corte: 25/03/21 e 4º Corte: 10/05/21). Objetivando-se determinar a máxima eficiência técnica (MET), o material coletado na área útil (0,5m²) foi identificado e pesado. Os dados coletados foram submetidos à Análise de Variância (ANOVA) pelo teste F (P≤0,05), as diferenças entre as médias foram comparadas pelo Teste de Tukey (P≤0,05). Concluindo-se que a dose recomendada de 150% de adubo organomineral se equivale a dose recomendada da adubação mineral, com base na MET e MEE do Capim-Jiggs.
Nutritious food and health risks: a review on the edible land snails of Africa
Authors: Tanyitiku Mary Nkongho
Published: September 2022

Snail meat is a source of food and livelihood for many inhabitants especially in sub-Saharan Africa. They are consumed in households or traded at local and international markets. However, African land snails are rarely farmed but picked from environments that include decaying vegetation, soil debris, and untreated human and household wastes. These ‘snail natural habitats’ may contain microbial pathogens that could easily be ingested by snails and transmitted to snail meat handlers and consumers. The objective of this study was to investigate published information that establishes the local consumption practices of African land snails as a credible source of foodborne infections. Acknowledging the nutritional benefits of consuming snails, this research revealed local practices in snail gathering, handling, preparation and preservation could significantly contribute to foodrelated disease burdens to Africans and several African snail meat-exporting countries. With this, national and international food safety regulations are required for African snail meat consumption.
Smallholder farmer's awareness and determination of aflatoxins in sesame seeds of southern district of Tanzania
Authors: Gidabedi Catherine , Kassim Neema , Matemu Athanasia
Published: September 2022

Consumption of aflatoxins contaminated foods has led to detrimental health effects worldwide, with even more severe cases in African countries including Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess awareness and aflatoxins contamination of sesame seeds in Lindi and Mtwara regions. Subsequently, a total of 70 sesame seed samples were randomly purchased from local markets for aflatoxin determination using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Qualitative data were analyzed using SPSS 20 for descriptive and correlation analysis. Results show that 82.4% of the respondents were not aware of aflatoxin contamination of agricultural produce. Awareness was negatively correlated to the levels of education (p=-0.309) and positively correlated with gender whereby men were more aware than women (p=0.03). On the other hand, 37 out of 70 sesame seed samples were contaminated with total aflatoxins at a range of 0.009 ng/g to 5.557 ng/g. Although none of these samples exceeded the Tanzania maximum limits of 10 ng/g for total aflatoxins, 2 samples exceeded the maximum limit of 4 ng/g set by the European Union. Furthermore, Aflatoxin B1 was detected in 13 samples moreover the concentration was below the Tanzania and EU maximum limits of 5 ng/g and 2 ng/g respectively. Though the contamination was below the national maximum limits and limited to one agro-ecological zone and season, these findings provide useful insights on aflatoxins contamination of sesame seeds from the two main growing regions in Tanzania.
Evaluation of Technical Efficiency of Hospitals during COVID-19 Crisis: A Case Study of Kohgiloyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Hospitals
Authors: Najafi Saman , Meshkani Zahra , Poursmad Abdollah , Barouni Mohsen
Published: September 2022

Background: Hospitals are the most important executive part of healthcare systems. During COVID-19 crisis, they faced a sudden demand, and spent the hospital resources and equipment in order to provide treatment services to COVID-19 patients. Considering that the provision of services was focused on these patients, the efficiency of hospitals during this crisis was not clear. The purpose of the current research is to investigate the efficiency of hospitals affiliated with Kohgiluyeh and Boyer Ahmad University of medical sciences, as well as the imaging units as the most important diagnostic department in the time of this pandemic.
Methods: This was a quantitative and retrospective study which examining technical efficiency of 6 hospitals affiliated with Kohgiluyeh and Boyer Ahmad University of medical sciences. In addition, the technical efficiency of the imaging units (CT scan, radiology and ultrasound) in these hospitals was evaluated. Technical efficiency was calculated and compared through different scenarios based on different inputs and outputs during the pandemic. The model used in this research was multi-stage DEA. To analyze the data, the output maximization model and variable returns to scale were used. Relevant data were collected for a one-year period, from October 2020 to October 2021. Technical efficiency was calculated using Deap 2.1.
Results: The average technical efficiency of the hospitals affiliated with Kohgiluyeh and Boyer Ahmad University of medical sciences during COVID-19 pandemic was 0.80 which was satisfactory. The average efficiency of CT scan, ultrasound and radiology units in the studied hospitals and based on the defined scenarios was 0.67, 0.44 and 0.40, respectively. This shows that the ultrasound and radiology units are far from efficient.
Conclusion: The hospitals under study as well as CT scan units were efficient during COVID-19 crisis. Examining the efficiency of the returns compared to the scale showed that increasing the number of beds as well as the equipment would not increase efficiency. Paying attention to the needs of population under study and financing them accordingly, would lead to the financial efficiency of the hospitals.
Knowledge Translation in Research Centers of Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences: Experience of Kerman University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Mahani Asma Saber , Yazdi-Feyzabadi Vahid , Bashzar Salman
Published: September 2022

Background: Despite significant expansion, indigenous research regarding health system still faces challenges in the field of research application. They include lack of reliable evidence, late arrival of evidence by policymakers or inappropriate language of evidence related to the field of knowledge exchange and translation. The aim of this study is to investigate the status of knowledge translation in research centers of Kerman University of Medical Sciences.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2020 in research centers affiliated with Kerman University of Medical Sciences. Centers entered the study through census and a standard questionnaire of self-assessment regarding knowledge-producing organizations was used. It contained 50 questions in 4 areas of research question, knowledge production, knowledge transfer and promotion of using evidence. After collecting and coding, the data were entered into SPSS 25 software and analyzed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test.
Results: 20 clinical research centers and 6 non-clinical centers participated in this study. Only 3.85 % of the centers scored more than 80 % in total. Regarding the research question, knowledge production, knowledge transfer and promotion of using evidence, the mean standard deviation of scores were 35/85 ± 9/93, 31/50 ± 7/54, 76/65 ± 16/35 and 9/31 ± 3/27, respectively. The best situation was related to knowledge production with 70 % of the score. Findings of the Mann-Whitney U test showed that the mean of all domains in the two groups were not different.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge translation. But, factors such as creating a structure for knowledge translation committee, considering the process of exchange, translation and transfer of knowledge in the process of approving student dissertations and research projects, reviewing research policies and creation of motivational mechanisms to promote the status of researchers can play an important facilitating role in achieving the appropriate level of knowledge exchange and translation.
Prevalence investigation and Comparison of Anxiety of Pre-Hospital Emergency and Hospital Emergency Personnel in Birjand in Covid-19 Epidemic
Authors: Beydokhti Tahereh Baloochi , Moghaddam Rasool Soleimani
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that may cause respiratory infections. Recently, a new coronavirus epidemic (COVID-19) has caused great anxiety worldwide. Given that pre-hospital and hospital emergency staffs are the first group of frontliners to be exposed to and fight COVID-19 infection, this study aimed to investigate the anxiety of pre-hospital and hospital emergency staff in Birjand during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 270 pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel were included in the census method in 2021. Data collection tools included a demographics form and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CDAS). Data analysis was performed in SPSS software version 21 using descriptive and inferential statistical tests.
Results: The mean score of psychological symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (20.65%) was higher than hospital emergency personnel (17.78%). Also, the mean score of physical symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (16.09%) was greater than that of hospital emergency personnel (17.73). There was a significant difference between pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel regarding the mean anxiety score (P <0.001).
Conclusion: Considering these results and the associated morbidity rate in healthcare providers caused by their presence in the first line of treatment against the COVID-19 infection, health policymakers are suggested to take the necessary steps to reduce the anxiety of the medical staff.
Comparison of the effectiveness of coping with job stress training with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on perception of work-family conflict and life satisfaction of employed retirees
Authors: Goudarzi Mohammad Hosein , Mehdad Ali , Golparvar Mohsen
Published: September 2022

Background: Retirement is a stage in life in which retirees are less satisfied with their retirement. It is essential to study the issues of the post-retirement period and the role of their re-employment on mental and physical health. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of coping with job stress training with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on the perception of work-family conflict and the life satisfaction of employed retirees.
Materials and Methods: The study is quasi-experimental with three groups and three stages. The statistical population was all retirees aged 45 to 65 who were members of Isfahan Retirement Centers in the winter of 1400. Using convenience sampling, 45 persons were selected and randomly assigned to three groups. The work-family conflict (Carlson et al., 2000) and the life satisfaction questionnaires (Diener et al., 1985) were used to collect data. Data were analyzed by analysis of covariance and SPSS 24 software.  
Results: The results showed a significant difference in the work-family conflict in the post-test stage between the experimental and control groups (p <0.05). In the follow-up stage, there is a significant difference only between the coping with job stress group and the control group. 
Moreover, there is a significant difference in life satisfaction between the experimental and control groups in the post-test and follow-up stages (p <0.05). The results of Bonferroni’s post hoc test showed that the effect of coping with job stress training is more significant than mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Conclusion: The study provides empirical support for both training to reduce work-family conflict and increase life satisfaction in employed retirees. According to Bonferroni’s post hoc test results, coping with job stress training is recommended.
Comparison of Extubation of Patients in Prone versus Supine Position in workers Undergoing Lumbar Disc Surgery
Authors: Dehghani Mohammad Hossein , Khoshrou Ali Asghar
Published: September 2022

Introduction: This study compared the extubation of patients in prone versus supine positions in patients undergoing lumbar disc surgery.
Material and Methods: In this single-blind clinical trial, 60 patients who were candidates for elective lumbar disc surgery were selected and randomly assigned into two groups of 30 patients. All patients primarily underwent surgery in the prone position. After surgery and discontinuation of anesthesia gases (T0), patients were assigned into two groups, prone and supine. From T0 to extubation time, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, Spo2, cough severity, and secondary complications after extubation such as laryngospasm and shortness of breath were measured and recorded in both groups. 
Results: The results showed that in all the variables under study, the supine group had higher values than the prone group. There was a significant difference in oxygen pressure between the two groups, and the prone group had a more suitable status than the supine group (P=0.02). The incidence of cough was higher in the supine group compared to the prone group, and the observed difference was significant (P=0.001).
 Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, maintaining the prone position after lumbar disc surgery for extubation causes the patient to be less affected by the change of position and is in a superior status in terms of coughing and oxygen pressure.
Factor V Gene Polymorphism (G1691A) Among Sudanese Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage, Khartoum State, 2022
Authors: Abd Algader Abubker Alsiddig , Alabid Tyseer , Almahy Abdallah Esraa Kamal , Siddig hasssan Manasik , Ibrahim Wessam Salah , Hamed Sawsan A. , Gassoum Alsadig , Merghani Maye  M. , Babiker Nihad alsadig
Published: September 2022

Background
Intracranial hemorrhage refers to any bleeding within the intracranial vault, including the brain parenchyma and surrounding meningeal spaces. In Sudan, there is no published data regarding factor V Leiden mutation. Therefore this study was designed to detect the possible present of factor V polymorphism (G1691A) among Sudanese patients with intercereberal hemorrhage.
Material and method
This study was a cross sectional hospital-based study, conducted at the research laboratory of the national center of neurological sciences (NCNS), Khartoum, Sudan during the period June 2022 to August 2022.It included all patients attended with Intracerebral hemorrhage, DNA extraction was done from blood of all patients and controls.PCR for factor V gene was done and thus Sanger sequencing.
Results
The PCR results showed; 100% were positive for factor V gene. Sequencing results revealed single based exchange in factor V geneG to A (G1691A).
Conclusion
Factor V gene polymorphism (G1691A) was detected and might be in association with intercereberal hemorrhage among Sudanese patients
Nowi literaci. Warsztat twórczy blogerów w kontekście współczesnych przemian kultury literackiej
Authors: Buchner Anna , Maryl Maciej
Published: September 2022

Article reconstructs the creative process of blogging on the basis of 12 interviews with dispositions, which are interpreted in the context of relational theory of culture and Goffman’s frame analysis. We discuss bloggers’ creative techniques, concentrating on following topics: anchoring of blogging activities, motivations and skills of bloggers, the role of the audience, the process of blogging. Due to the professionalization of blogging bloggers have become contemporary writers, playing an important role on the communication scene.
Incidence and Histopathology of Bacterial Leaf Spot Pathogen Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vesicatoria (Doidge) Dye in Brinjal Seeds (Solanum melongena L.) Grown in Jaipur Area of Rajasthan
Authors:   Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU), Kota, Rajasthan-324010, India, Sharma Dilip Kumar
Published: September 2022

A survey was conducted to examine seed-borne microorganisms' prevalence in the Jaipur region. On Tween-80 agar medium (semi-selective medium), 110 seed samples of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) were shown to have a 09-100 per cent incidence of bacterium Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vesicatoria (Xav). On the basis of discolorations and signs on the seed surface, these obtained seed samples were divided into three categories. Asymptomatic (06.25-97.50 per cent), moderately (shrivelled) discoloured (02.50-83.25 per cent), and highly discoloured (04.25-100 per cent) seeds were found in dry seed inspection. For histopathology examinations, two seed samples naturally infected (lab ac nos. SM001; SM011) with a 100% incidence of Xav were chosen. Necrosis was seen in the embryo and endosperm after manually bisecting severely affected seeds in third category. In non-symptomatic seeds, the pathogen was detected only in the layers of the seed coat (funiculus); however, in moderately discoloured and heavily discoloured seeds, Xav was found in the seed coat and endosperm, including the embryo. The bacterium generated necrosis, lytic cavities, and clusters of bacterium in the embryo and endosperm. Aggregation was observed in the seed decrease in cell contents and bacterial cells. The pathogen was discovered both extra- and intra-embryonic.
Effect of Dietary Incorporation of Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical Tiktaka Gritham Residue on Haemato-Biochemical Parameters of Malabari Kids
Authors:   CVAS, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, India, C. Febina , Chacko Biju
Published: September 2022

A feeding trial of 90 days duration was conducted to study the effect of dietary incorporation of ayurvedic pharmaceutical Tiktaka gritham residue based diet on various haemato-biochemical parameters of Malabari kids. Fifteen healthy three months old Malabari kids were selected and divided into three groups of five each, as uniformly as possible regarding body weight, sex and age. The dietary treatments were T1 (control diet), T2 and T3 kid starter incorporated with 10 and 20 per cent of ayurvedic pharmaceutical Tiktaka gritham residue, respectively. Haematobiochemical parameters of the experimental kids were analyzed at the start and end of the feeding trial. On 1st day all the blood parameters were similar among treatment groups. On 90th day tiktaka gritham residue had a significant effect on the concentration of cholesterol, which was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T3 than T1 and T2, with T1 and T2 being similar (P>0.05). All the remaining blood parameters, viz., RBC, WBC, Hb, MCH, MCV and biochemical parameters, viz., total Protein, AST, ALT and total triglycerides were similar between the treatments.
Self-efficacy and motivation predict leisure time physical activity
Authors: Garg Shalini
Published: September 2022

Correlates of physical activity are relatively less understood in India. This study was conducted in the state of Kerala which suffers from a high burden of chronic diseases in the country due to epidemiological transition. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 adults in Kottayam district of Kerala. Multivariable logistic regression analysis determined that high fitness motives (OR=8.45, 95%CI 1.58-11.34), high self-efficacy (OR=3.71, 95%CI 1.75-8.08), support from friends and family (OR=4.46, 95%CI 1.09-18.20) and being married (OR=2.59,95%CI 1.08-6.23) were key predictors of leisure time physical activity than their counterparts.
Urban Green Equity
Authors: Maira Muniz Almeida Wanda , Guaraldo Eliane
Published: September 2022

The growing concern with the impacts of climate change and the fast urbanization of cities has led international policies to guide changes in attitudes by governments and civil society, directing effective models of sustainable governance aimed at environmental health and equal access for society environmental benefits. In this study, we seek to understand the evolution of research and scientific production on a topic of great relevance today – green equity. Through scientometric analysis based on a systematic literature review, we analyzed articles published in the period between 1992 and 2021. We used the open source R-tool Biblioshiny, which processes information from academic databases to carry out the analyses. Through this methodology it was possible to identify the main fields of research and relate the results obtained with important historical milestones for sustainable development. We also seek to highlight the evolution of research lines and highlight the significant flows in the global collaboration network. We found that the theme of green equity was driven by international agendas such as the SDG and has been gaining more space in scientific production, linked to a greater variety of issues such as climate change, accessibility to green spaces, ecosystem services, green infrastructure and socioeconomic issues.
Rethinking Xenophobia and Medical Xenophobia
Authors: BAŞARAN Cem Hakan
Published: September 2022

With the increasing refugee population in our country, which has faced an intense wave of migration since 2011, xenophobia is increasing day by day. During the delivery of health services, the immorality of xenophobia, which grows usually by hiding behind the increasing average number of patients and unsolvable communication problems, was discussed from the perspective of the medical profession, which has ethical codes and deontology. First of all, the medical and social science literature on xenophobia, the current, historical and psychopathological background of this phenomenon, and its explicit or implicit relationship with medicine were investigated. The xenophobic attitudes and actions of physicians, who are the main actors of health care delivery all around the world, were evaluated from the perspective of medical ethics and history. In this article, the findings of the socioeconomic, political, and psychological foundations of xenophobia, its relationship and context with new racism theories, and the historical existence of medical xenophobia, which is discussed as a current phenomenon in health services, and especially in South Africa, and what it can cause today are tried to be revealed. The fact that xenophobia may arise against a vulnerable subject who is about to lose his self-respect in the society in a place and encounter, with where all kinds of identity and biographical information are of no importance except for medical reasons, not only puts all kinds of ethical contexts of the patient-physician and physician-physician relationship (confidentiality, secrecy, intimacy, mutual respect, professional solidarity, courtesy, etc.) at risk but also it turns the issue into a morality one. Medicine should be practiced by the physician in a neutral space where all kinds of knowledge and identity, except for illness, are ignored.
The use of functional programming library to parallelize on graphics accelerators with CUDA technology
Authors: Krasnov Mikhail Mikhailovich , Feodoritova Olga Borisovna
Published: September 2022

Modern graphics accelerators (GPUs) can significantly speed up the execution of numerical tasks. However, porting programs to graphics accelerators is not an easy task, sometimes requiring their almost complete rewriting. CUDA graphics accelerators, thanks to technology developed by NVIDIA, allow you to have a single source code for both conventional processors (CPUs) and CUDA. However, in this single source code, you need to somehow tell the compiler which parts of this code to parallelize on shared memory. The use of the functional programming library developed by the authors allows you to hide the use of one or another parallelization mechanism on shared memory within the library and make the user source code completely independent of the computing device used (CPU or CUDA). This article shows how this can be done.
Platonic Ontology as Form-Giver of Ethics and Politics
Authors: ELMAS Mehmet Fatih
Published: September 2022

From the very first ancient Greek thinkers on, it has always been a philosophically central activity to think on the universe, man and society comprehensively. These three problem nets were scrutinized also in Plato’s work exhaustively. Platonic system supposes the philosopher to philosophize by drawing on Ideas and this activity is on the one hand deals with the universe and with the man and social order on the other. In this regard, emergence of the existing things (ta onta) is examined in a way that links these to Demiurgos’ activity, who itself is not an existing thing. Nevertheless, there is a resemblance between Demiurgos’ deeds and the philosopher king’s duty, who is supposed to conceive the latter via reason: Both agents are masters of giving a form. Just as Demiurgos had projected Ideas upon the natural material and thus given the universe an order and done well, the philosopher king should, upon that ontological ground, form a city-state, where its settlers are able to live a just and happy life. In this essay, Plato’s thoughts on being and becoming are examined by including the ethical and political motivation behind these metaphysical conclusions.
Fixed-Bearing Trabecular Metal Total Ankle Arthroplasty Using the Transfibular Approach for End-Stage Ankle Osteoarthritis
Authors: D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Tiusanen Hannu Tapani , Ellington John Kent , Kraus Fabian , Younger Alastair , Usuelli Federico Giuseppe
Published: September 2022

Background:

This multicenter prospective cohort study assessed the safety and performance of the Trabecular Metal Total Ankle System (TM Ankle; Zimmer) for primary total ankle arthroplasty (TAA).

Methods:

One hundred and twenty-one consecutive patients qualifying for primary TAA were enrolled in the study. All patients received the TM Ankle implant. Clinical outcome examinations and radiographic evaluations were conducted at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were evaluated with use of the EuroQol-5 Dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D), Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society questionnaire (AOFAS), and patient satisfaction at each time point. Complications were classified according to the Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (COFAS) system.

Results:

The average AOFAS, EQ-5D, AOS pain, and AOS difficulty scores showed significant improvement at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years as compared with the preoperative baseline (p < 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier survival estimate for revision when used in primary cases was 97.35% at 3 years. During the 3 years of follow-up, 9 patients showed abnormal radiographic findings. Two ankles had intraoperative complications, 38 had complications that were non-surgical or device-related, and 3 ankles underwent revision.

Conclusions:

The results of the present study indicated that patient well-being significantly increased following TAA with use of the TM Ankle. Radiographic parameters also demonstrated a low incidence of abnormal findings.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Component of the TAC Complex, TCD7, Controls Rice Chloroplast Development at the Early Seedling Stage under Cold Stress
Authors: Lin Dongzhi , Kang Licheng , Zhou Wenhao , Wang Yulu , Chen Yu , Xu Jianlong , Dong Yanjun
Published: September 2022

Transcriptionally active chromosome (TAC) is a component of protein-DNA complexes with RNA polymerase activity found in chloroplasts. Although TAC in Arabidopsis thaliana has been extensively investigated, how the rice (Oryza sativaL.) TAC complex functions remain largely unknown. We report the characterization of the mutant thermosensitive chlorophyll-deficient7 (tcd7) and the cloning of TCD7. tcd7 mutant seedlings displayed an albino phenotype specifically at low temperatures and before the four-leaf stage. We identified TCD7 by map-based cloning followed by transgenic rescue and genome editing tests, showing that TCD7 encodes the putative TAC component FRUCTOKINASE-LIKE 2 (OsFLN2). TCD7 transcripts were highly abundant in green tissues, and the protein localized to chloroplasts. In agreement with the albino phenotype, transcript levels of genes controlling chloroplast development and the establishment of photosynthetic capacity were severely reduced in tcd7 seedlings at low temperatures, but were expressed as in the wild type at high temperatures, implying that TCD7 regulates the PEP pathway and chloroplast development. Moreover, TCD7 interacted with the thioredoxin OsTRXz to form an OsTRXz-TCD7 regulatory module, which might regulate plastid transcription under cold stress. Our results demonstrate that the nucleus-encoded TAC protein TCD7protects chloroplast development from cold stress via a TRXz-FLN regulatory module.
An improved cooperation search algorithm for the multi-degree reduction of Ball Bézier surfaces
Authors: Cao Huanxin , Zheng Hongchan , Hu Gang
Published: September 2022

Cooperation search algorithm (CSA) is a new metaheuristic algorithm inspired from the team cooperation behaviors in modern enterprises and is characterized by fast convergence. However for some complex problems, it may get trapped into local optima and suffer from premature convergence for the shortcoming of population updating guided only by leading individuals. In this paper, an improved cooperation search algorithm (CCSA) is proposed by incorporating the mutation and crossover operators in DE algorithms to alleviate the shortcoming. The two operators can be used to increase population's diversity significantly, and thus improve population's exploration capability and accuracy significantly. CCSA has been tested on 23 benchmark functions and CEC 2017 benchmark suite. Experimental results demonstrate the better performance of CCSA on convergence speed and accuracy as compared to other existing optimizers. Furthermore, aiming at the problem that there is no universal approach for the multi-degree reduction of Ball Bézier surfaces under different interpolation constrains, we propose a new method to solve this problem by introducing metaheuristic methods, where the change of interpolation constrains are treated as the change of decision variables. The modeling examples show that the proposed method is effective and easy to implement under different interpolation constrains, which achieves the automatic and intelligent degree reduction of Ball Bézier surfaces.
Strong Conformable Structure via Tension Activated Kirigami
Authors: Corrigan Tom , Fleming Patrick , Eldredge Charlie , Langer-Anderson Delony
Published: September 2022

Kirigami, the cutting and folding of sheets, creates three-dimensional shapes from flat material. Known for centuries by artists and the subject of recent research, practical application of kirigami is limited by the complexity of the folding step. One kirigami pattern, a series of staggered slits, has been used for expanded metal gratings and packaging material. Because it deploys with simple tension, not complex folding, we call it Tension Activated Kirigami (TAK). In this paper, we introduce a new TAK pattern that drives flat material into rows of vertical, accordion-like, folded walls. This array of walls has a stiffness and strength comparable to a full honeycomb core, yet it self-deploys under tension. The structure is also conformable, allowing it to wrap around objects. These attributes enable a new paradigm for low-cost structural panels and a sustainable alternative to plastic cushion wrap.
Power analyses for response shift detection with structural equation modeling
Authors: Verdam Mathilde G. E.
Published: September 2022

Purpose. Statistical power for response shift detection with structural equation modeling (SEM) is currently underreported. The present paper addresses this issue by providing worked-out examples and syntaxes of power calculations relevant for the statistical tests associated with the SEM approach for response shift detection.
Methods. Power calculations and related sample-size requirements are illustrated for two modelling goals: 1) to detect misspecification in the measurement model, and 2) to detect response shift. Power analyses for hypotheses regarding (exact) overall model fit and the presence of response shift are demonstrated in a step-by-step manner. The freely available and user-friendly R-package lavaan and shiny-app ‘power4SEM’ are used for the calculations.
Results. Using the SF-36 as an example, we illustrate the specification of null-hypothesis (H0) and alternative hypothesis (H1) models to calculate chi-square based power for the test on overall model fit, the omnibus test on response shift, and the specific test on response shift. For example, we show that a sample size of 506 is needed to reject an incorrectly specified measurement model, when the actual model has two-medium sized cross loadings. We also illustrate an alternative power calculation based on the RMSEA index for approximate fit, where H0 and H1 are defined in terms of RMSEA-values.
Conclusion. By providing accessible resources to perform power analyses and emphasizing the different power analyses associated with different modeling goals, we hope to facilitate the uptake of power analyses for response shift detection with SEM and thereby enhance the stringency of response shift research.
R3-MYB repressor Mybr97 is a candidate gene associated with the Anthocyanin3 locus and enhanced anthocyanin accumulation in maize
Authors: Paulsmeyer Michael N. , Juvik John A.
Published: September 2022

Anthocyanins are colorful molecules receiving recent attention due to their numerous health benefits and applications as natural colorants and nutraceuticals. Purple corn is being investigated as a more economical source of anthocyanins. Anthocyanin3 (A3) is a known recessive intensifier of anthocyanin pigmentation in maize. In this study, anthocyanin content was elevated 100-fold in recessive a3 plants. Two approaches were used to discover candidates involved with the a3 intense purple plant phenotype. First, a large-scale transposon-tagging population was created with a Dissociation (Ds) insertion in the nearby Anthocyanin1 gene. A de novo a3-m1::Ds mutant was generated and the transposon insertion was found to be located in the promoter of Mybr97, which has homology to R3-MYB repressor CAPRICE in Arabidopsis. Second, a bulk segregant RNA-sequencing population found expression differences between pools of green A3 plants and purple a3 plants. All characterized anthocyanin biosynthetic genes were upregulated in a3 plants along with several genes of the monolignol pathway. Mybr97 was highly downregulated in a3 plants, suggesting its role as a negative regulator of the anthocyanin pathway. Photosynthesis-related gene expression was reduced in a3 plants through an unknown mechanism. Numerous transcription factors and biosynthetic genes were also upregulated and need further investigation. Mybr97 may inhibit anthocyanin synthesis by associating with basic-helix-loop-helix transcription factors like Booster1. Overall, Mybr97 is the most likely candidate gene for the A3 locus. A3 has a profound effect on the maize plant and has many favorable implications for crop protection, human health, and natural colorant production.
Effects of peppermint oil in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Ziqing , Huang Xiaomei , Wan Ying
Published: September 2022

Backgroud: The purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate the clinical effects of peppermint oil (PO) on the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome（IBS).
Methods: Randomized controlled trials of PO for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome were retrieved by computer from PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE, and Web of science until December 30, 2021, and a meta-analysis was performed using Revman5.3 software.
Results: Seven high-quality studies included a total of 722 participants. PO improved both IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) and IBS quality of life (IBS-QOL) scores, although not significantly better than placebo(IBS-SSS ：MD = 15.35, 95% CI: -25.16-55.86, P = 0.46;IBS-QOL：MD = 0.78, 95% CI: -0.18-1.74, P = 0.11)；IBS-Global improvement in symptoms (IBS-GIS）of the PO group improved significantly compared with the placebo group (RR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.20-2.17, P = 0.002). The PO group had significantly higher adverse events than the placebo group (RR 1.48, 95% CI: 1.48-1.89, P = 0.0002).
Conclusions: While PO can significantly alleviate the clinical symptoms of IBS, the occurrence of adverse events will increase, and whether it will enhance IBS-SSS or IBS-QOL scores has to be researched further.
Can patient registries contribute to guideline-based healthcare? A retrospective analysis of the CEDATA-GPGE registry for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Leiz Maren , Knorr Melanie , Moon Kilson , Tischler Luisa , Sohrabi Keywan , Cantez Serdar , Däbritz Jan , de Laffolie Jan , Berg Neeltje van den
Published: September 2022

Background: Early diagnosis is mandatory for the medical care of children and adolescents with pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD). International guidelines (‘Porto criteria’) of the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition recommended adequate medical diagnostic procedures in PIBD. Since 2004, German and Austrian pediatric gastroenterologists document diagnostic and treatment data in the patient registry CEDATA-GPGE. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze whether the registry CEDATA-GPGE reflects the Porto criteria and to what extent diagnostic measures of PIBD according to the Porto criteria are documented.
Methods: Data of CEDATA-GPGE were analyzed for the period December 2013 to December 2018. Variables representing the Porto criteria for initial diagnostic were identified and categorized. The average of the number of measures documented in each category was calculated for the diagnoses CD, UC, and IBD-U. Differences between the diagnoses were tested by Chi-square test. Data on possible differencesbetween data documented in the registry and diagnostic procedures that were actually performed were obtained via a sample survey.
Results: There were 547 patients included in the analysis. The median age of patients with incident CD (n=289) was 13.6 years (IQR: 11.2-15.2), of patients with UC (n=212) 13.1 years (IQR: 10.4-14.8) and of patients with IBD-U (n=46) 12.2 years (IQR: 8.6-14.7).
The variables identified in the registry fully reflect the recommendations by the Porto criteria. Only the disease activity indices PUCAI and PCDAI were not included. The category ‘Case history’ were documented for the largest part (78.0%), the category ‘Imaging of the small bowel’ were documented least frequently (39.1%). In patients with CD, the categories ‘Imaging of the small bowel’ (χ2=20.7, Cramer-V=0.2, p<0.001) and ‘Puberty stage’ (χ2=9.8, Cramer-V=0.1, p<0.05) were documented more often than in patients with UC and IBD-U.
Conclusion: The registry fully reproduces the guideline’s recommendations for the initial diagnosis of PIBD. The proportion of documented diagnostic examinations varied within the diagnostic categories and between the diagnoses. Despite technological innovations, time and personnel capacities at participating centers and study center are necessary to ensure reliable data entry and to enable researchers to derive important insights into guideline-based care.
Challenges and Innovation in Community-Based Organization HIV/AIDS Services During COVID-19 in China
Authors: Bouey Jennifer Z.H. , Han Jing , Liu Yuxuan , Vuchovic Myriam , Zhu Keren , Zhou Kai , Su Ye
Published: September 2022

Introduction

People living with HIV relied on community-based organizations (CBOs) in accessing HIV care and support during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. However, little is known on the impact of, and challenges faced by Chinese CBOs supporting PLHIV during lockdowns.

Methods

A mixed methods study was conducted among 29 CBOs serving PLHIV in China between November 10 and November 23, 2020. Participants were asked to complete a 20-minute online survey on their routine operations, organizational capacity building, service provided, and challenges during the pandemic. A focus group interview was conducted with CBOs after the survey to gain further insights on data interpretations. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using STATA 17.0 while qualitative data was examined using thematic analysis.

Results

HIV-focused CBOs in China serve diverse clients including PLHIV, high-risk groups, and the general public. The scope of services provided is broad, ranging from HIV testing to peer support. All CBOs maintained their services during the pandemic, many by switching to online or hybrid mode. Many CBOs reported adding new clients and services, such as mailing medications. Top challenges faced by CBOs included service reduction due to staff shortage, lack of PPE for staff, and lack of funding during COVID-19 lockdowns. In addition to the staff and funding needs, the ability to better network with other CBOs and other sectors (e.g., clinics, governments), a standard emergency response guideline, and ready strategies to help PLHIV build resilience are critical for future emergency preparation.

Conclusions

Chinese CBOs serving vulnerable populations affected by HIV/AIDS are instrumental in building resilience in their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they can play significant roles in providing uninterrupted services during emergencies by mobilizing resources, creating new services and operation methods, and utilizing existing networks. Chinese CBOs’ experiences, challenges, and their policy recommendations can inform policy makers on how to support future CBO capacity building to bridge service gaps during crises and reduce health inequalities in China and globally.