bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Radiation Attenuation of Linear Low Density Polyethylene with Iron Slag in the Range of Peak Potentials 50 kVp to 150 kVp
Authors: Alrajhi H. , Marashdeh M. W. , Almurayshid M. , Alsuhybani M. , Alarifi H.
Published: February 2023

The emergence of polymer composite materials has potential advantages for shielding application form low energy radiation. Four different samples of different ratio of iron slag (0%, 1%, 5%, and 10%) based on a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) polymer mixed were prepared and
examined in this study. The measured densities of fabricated LLDPE samples were in the range of 0.925 to 1.004 g cm−3. The distribution of ironpreserving particles in an LLDPE polymer sample was also demonstrated in this study by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The linear
and mass attenuation coefficients of the four samples were determined by using eight standard radiation qualities of different applied voltages (kVp) of 50, 60, 70, 84, 90, 105, 119, and 150 kVp. Moreover, the exposure radiation quality used with different energies was calculated through the
half value layer (HVL). It was found that the dose value for different combinations of beam quality including the HVL and kVp did not exceed the recommended values given by the IEC 61267 standard with the effective energies of 28.7, 30.0, 33.0, 36.2, 37.7, 39.6, 44.3, and 50.0 keV. The results
of the linear attenuation coefficients of four LLDPE samples were between 0.1886 cm−1 and 0.8412 cm−1. The composite that includes 10% iron slag has the highest attenuation across all incident beam energies. In addition, it exhibited the greatest mass attenuation
coefficient among the selected samples. Furthermore, when the mean free path (MFP) was measured, the LLDPE + 10% iron slag composite has a lower MFP value which indicates it is best material for shielding photons in the selected energy range in our investigation.
Study on Factors Affecting the Transparency of Serpentinite Gemstone from Tai’an, Shangdong, China
Authors: Deng Shi Die , Guo Ying
Published: February 2023

This paper mainly studied the factors affecting the transparency of a serpentinite gemstone called “Taishanyu.” The color parameters of the samples on the black and white backgrounds under the D65 standard light source were measured using an X-rite SP62 handheld spectrophotometer.
The translucency parameter TP was computed to quantitatively characterize the transparency of the samples. Experimental results on the thickness of the sample show that the TP value of the sample is linearly correlated with the thickness and that the transparency increases with the reduction
of thickness. The X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF) results show that the chemical composition changes caused by the isomorphism of “Taishanyu” do not significantly affect its transparency. The results of the thermal analysis indicate that the form and content of the water
in “Taishanyu” has an effect on its transparency. The mineral particle size, uniformity, and orientation of “Taishanyu” will affect its transparency. The color parameters and TP values of the samples were analyzed, and the results indicate that the transparency of “Taishanyu”
is closely related to its color.
Gene expression profiling and FDG-PET radiomics uncover radiometabolic signatures associated with outcome in DLBCL
Authors: Mazzara Saveria , Travaini Laura , Botta Francesca , Granata Chiara , Motta Giovanna , Melle Federica , Fiori Stefano , Tabanelli Valentina , Vanazzi Anna , Ramadan Safaa , Radice Tommaso , Raimondi Sara , Lo Presti Giuliana , Ferrari Mahila E. , Jereczek-Fossa Barbara Alicja , Tarella Corrado , Ceci Francesco , Pileri Stefano , Derenzini Enrico
Published: February 2023

Emerging evidence indicates that chemoresistance is closely related to altered metabolism in cancer. Here, we hypothesized that distinct metabolic gene expression profiling (GEP) signatures might be correlated with outcome and with specific fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) radiomic profiles in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We retrospectively analyzed a discovery cohort of 48 consecutive patients with DLBCL treated at our center with standard first-line chemoimmunotherapy by performing targeted GEP (T-GEP)– and FDG-PET radiomic analyses on the same target lesions at baseline. T-GEP–based metabolic profiling identified a 6-gene signature independently associated with outcomes in univariate and multivariate analyses. This signature included genes regulating mitochondrial oxidative metabolism (SCL25A1, PDK4, PDPR) that were upregulated and was inversely associated with genes involved in hypoxia and glycolysis (MAP2K1, HIF1A, GBE1) that were downregulated. These data were validated in 2 large publicly available cohorts. By integrating FDG-PET radiomics and T-GEP, we identified a radiometabolic signature (RadSig) including 4 radiomic features (histo kurtosis, histo energy, shape sphericity, and neighboring gray level dependence matrix contrast), significantly associated with the metabolic GEP–based signature (r = 0.43, P = .0027) and with progression-free survival (P = .028). These results were confirmed using different target lesions, an alternative segmentation method, and were validated in an independent cohort of 64 patients. RadSig retained independent prognostic value in relation to the International Prognostic Index score and metabolic tumor volume (MTV). Integration of RadSig and MTV further refined prognostic stratification. This study provides the proof of principle for the use of FDG-PET radiomics as a tool for noninvasive assessment of cancer metabolism and prognostic stratification in DLBCL.
Defining a cohort of anemia-activated cis elements reveals a mechanism promoting erythroid precursor function
Authors: Zhou Yichao , Dogiparthi Venkatasai Rahul , Ray Suhita , Schaefer Meg A. , Harris Hannah L. , Rowley M. Jordan , Hewitt Kyle J.
Published: February 2023

Acute anemia elicits broad transcriptional changes in erythroid progenitors and precursors. We previously discovered a cis-regulatory transcriptional enhancer at the sterile alpha motif domain-14 enhancer locus (S14E), defined by a CANNTG-spacer-AGATAA composite motif and occupied by GATA1 and TAL1 transcription factors, is required for survival in severe anemia. However, S14E is only 1 of dozens of anemia-activated genes containing similar motifs. In a mouse model of acute anemia, we identified populations of expanding erythroid precursors, which increased expression of genes that contain S14E-like cis elements. We reveal that several S14E-like cis elements provide important transcriptional control of newly identified anemia-inducing genes, including the Ssx-2 interacting protein (Ssx2ip). Ssx2ip expression was determined to play an important role in erythroid progenitor/precursor cell activities, cell cycle regulation, and cell proliferation. Over a weeklong course of acute anemia recovery, we observed that erythroid gene activation mediated by S14E-like cis elements occurs during a phase coincident with low hematocrit and high progenitor activities, with distinct transcriptional programs activated at earlier and later time points. Our results define a genome-wide mechanism in which S14E-like enhancers control transcriptional responses during erythroid regeneration. These findings provide a framework to understand anemia-specific transcriptional mechanisms, ineffective erythropoiesis, anemia recovery, and phenotypic variability within human populations.
Ultrasound and microbubble-mediated delivery of miR-424-5p has a therapeutic effect in preeclampsia
Authors: Wang Xudong , Wu Yan , Sun Qinliang , Jiang Zhonghui , Che Guoying , Tao Yangyang , Tian Jiawei
Published: February 2023

Objective

To determine the influence of ultrasound/microbubble-mediated miR-424-5p delivery on trophoblast cells and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

Blood pressure and 24-h proteinuria of patients with preeclampsia (PE) were measured as well as the levels of miR-424-5p and amine oxidase copper containing 1 (AOC1) in placental tissues. HTR-8/Svneo and TEV-1 cells were subjected to cell transfection or ultrasonic microbubble transfection for determination of the expression of miR-424-5p, AOC1, β-catenin and c-Myc as well as cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasiveness. The concentrations of placental growth factor (PLGF), human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured in HTR-8/Svneo and TEV-1 cells. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual luciferase reporter assay detected the binding of miR-424-5p to AOC1. A PE mouse model was induced by subcutaneous injection of L-NAME, where the influence of ultrasound/microbubble-mediated miR-424-5p delivery was evaluated.

Results

miR-424-5p was downregulated while AOC1 was upregulated in the placental tissues from PE patients. Overexpression of miR-424-5p activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and promoted the proliferation of HTR-8/Svneo and TEV-1 cells as well as enhanced the migratory and invasive behaviors. AOC1 overexpression partly eliminated the effects of miR-424-5p on HTR-8/Svneo and TEV-1 cells. Ultrasound and microbubble mediated gene delivery enhanced the transfection efficiency of miR-424-5p and further promoted the effects of miR-424-5p in trophoblast cells. Ultrasound/microbubble-mediated miR-424-5p delivery alleviated experimental PE in mice.

Conclusion

Ultrasound and microbubble-mediated miR-424-5p delivery targets AOC1 and activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thus promoting the aggressive phenotype of trophoblast cells, which indicating that miR-424-5p/AOC1 axis might be involved with PE pathogenesis.
Absence of fluctuation and inverted circadian rhythm of blood pressure increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction in cerebral small vessel disease patients
Authors: Xu Yiwen , Gong Chen , Liao Jingxian , Ge Zhonglin , Tan Yu , Jiang Yi , Liu Mengqian , Zhong Wen , Zhang Xianxian , Dong Nan , Shen Xiaozhu
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a common cause of stroke and senile vascular cognitive impairment, imposing a heavy burden on public health care systems worldwide. Hypertension and 24-hour blood pressure variability (BPV), known to be significant risk factors for cognitive dysfunction, have been found to be associated with cognitive function in CSVD patients in previous studies. However, as a derived part of BPV, there are few studies on the relationship between circadian rhythm of blood pressure and cognitive dysfunction in CSVD patients, and the relationship between them is still unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether the disturbance of circadian rhythm of blood pressure can affect the cognitive function of patients with CSVD.

Methods

A total of 383 CSVD patients hospitalized in the Geriatrics Department of the Lianyungang Second People’s Hospital between May 2018 and June 2022 were enrolled in this study. The clinical information and parameters of 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were compared between the cognitive dysfunction group (n = 224) and the normal group (n = 159). Finally, a binary logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between circadian rhythm of blood pressure and cognitive dysfunction in patients with CSVD.

Results

(1) Patients in the cognitive dysfunction group were older, had lower blood pressure on admission, and had a greater number of previous cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (P < 0.05). (2) More patients in the cognitive dysfunction group had circadian rhythm abnormalities in blood pressure, especially the non-dipper and reverse-dipper types (P < 0.001). (3) In the elderly, there was a statistical difference in the circadian rhythm of blood pressure between the cognitive dysfunction group and the normal group, but this phenomenon did not exist in the middle-aged. (4) Binary logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for confounding factors, the risk of cognitive dysfunction in CSVD patients with non-dipper type was 4.052 times higher than that of dipper type (95% CI, 1.782–9.211; P = 0.001), and reverse-dipper type was 8.002 times higher than those with dipper type (95% CI, 3.367–19.017; P<0.001).

Conclusions

The disturbance of circadian rhythm of blood pressure may affect the cognitive function of patients with CSVD, and the risk of cognitive dysfunction in non-dipper and reverse-dipper types are higher.
Prevalence and correlates of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection among senior high school students in Ghana: a latent class analysis
Authors: Ampofo Ama Gyamfua , Boyes Allison W. , Asibey Shadrack Osei , Oldmeadow Christopher , Mackenzie Lisa J.
Published: February 2023

Background

While health risk behaviours are likely to co-occur, there is dearth of studies exploring the clustering of cervical cancer and HPV infection risk factors among adolescents. This study aimed to determine: 1) the prevalence of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection, 2) the clustering of modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection, and 3) factors associated with the identified clusters.

Methods

Female students (aged 16–24 years, N = 2400) recruited from 17 randomly selected senior high schools in the Ashanti Region, Ghana completed a questionnaire assessing modifiable risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection including sexual experience, early sexual intercourse (< 18 years), unprotected sex, smoking, sexually transmitted infections (STIs); multiple sexual partners (MSP) and smoking. Latent class analysis explored separate classes of students according to their risk factor profiles for cervical cancer and HPV infection. Latent class regression analysis explored factors associated with latent class memberships.

Results

Approximately one in three students (34%, 95%CI: 32%-36%) reported exposure to at least one risk factor. Two separate classes emerged: high-risk and low-risk (cervical cancer: 24% and 76% of students, respectively; HPV infection: 26% and 74% of students, respectively). Compared to participants in the low-risk classes i) the cervical cancer high-risk class were more likely to report exposure to oral contraceptives; early sexual intercourse (< 18 years); STIs; MSP and smoking; and ii) the HPV infection high risk class were more likely to report exposure to sexual intercourse; unprotected sex and MSP. Participants with higher risk factor knowledge had significantly higher odds of belonging to cervical cancer and HPV infection high-risk classes. Participants with greater perceived susceptibility to cervical cancer and HPV infection were more likely to belong to the high-risk HPV infection class. Sociodemographic characteristics and greater perceived seriousness about cervical cancer and HPV infection had significantly lower odds of belonging to both high-risk classes.

Conclusions

The co-occurrence of cervical cancer and HPV infection risk factors suggests that a single school-based multi-component risk reduction intervention could concurrently target multiple risk behaviours. However, students in the high risk class may benefit from more complex risk reduction interventions.
Predictors of national health insurance membership among the poor with different education levels in Indonesia
Authors: Putri Nuzulul Kusuma , Laksono Agung Dwi , Rohmah Nikmatur
Published: February 2023

Background

Indonesia has made significant progress in expanding universal health coverage (UHC) through its National Health Insurance (NHI) mechanism. However, in the context of NHI implementation in Indonesia, socioeconomic disparities caused its subpopulations to have different literacy of NHI concepts and procedures, increasing the risk of healthcare access inequities. Hence, the study aimed to analyse the predictors of NHI membership among the poor with different education levels in Indonesia.

Methods

This study used the secondary dataset of the nationwide survey “Abilities and Willingness to Pay, Fee, and Participant Satisfaction in implementing National Health Insurance in Indonesia in 2019” by The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. The study population was the poor population in Indonesia and included a weighted sample of 18,514 poor people. The study used NHI membership as a dependent variable. Meanwhile, the study analysed seven independent variables: wealth, residence, age, gender, education, employment, and marital status. In the final step of the analysis, the study used binary logistic regression.

Results

The results show that the NHI membership among the poor population tends to be higher among those who have higher education, live in urban areas, are older than 17 years old, are married and are wealthier. The poor population with higher education levels is more likely to become NHI members than those with lower education. Their residence, age, gender, employment, marital status, and wealth also predicted their NHI membership. Poor people with primary education are 1.454 times more likely to be NHI members than those without education (AOR 1.454; 95% CI 1.331–1.588). Meanwhile, those with secondary education are 1.478 times more likely to be NHI members than those with no education (AOR 1.478; 95% CI 1.309–1.668). Moreover, higher education is 1.724 times more likely to result in being an NHI member than no education (AOR 1.724; 95% CI 1.356–2.192).

Conclusion

Education level, residence, age, gender, employment, marital status, and wealth predict NHI membership among the poor population. Since significant differences exist in all of those predictors among the poor population with different education levels, our findings highlighted the importance of government investment in NHI, which must be supported with investment in the poor population’s education.
Informing a European guidance framework on electronic informed consent in clinical research: a qualitative study
Authors: De Sutter Evelien , Borry Pascal , Huys Isabelle , Barbier Liese
Published: February 2023

Background

Electronic informed consent (eIC) may offer various advantages compared to paper-based informed consent. However, the regulatory and legal landscape related to eIC provides a diffuse image. By drawing from the perspectives of key stakeholders in the field, this study aims to inform the creation of a European guidance framework on eIC in clinical research.

Methods

Focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants from six stakeholder groups. The stakeholder groups included representatives of ethics committees, data infrastructure organizations, patient organizations, and the pharmaceutical industry as well as investigators and regulators. All were involved in or knowledgeable about clinical research and were active in one of the European Union Member States or at a pan-European or global level. The framework method was used for data analysis.

Results

Stakeholders underwrote the need for a multi-stakeholder guidance framework addressing practical elements related to eIC. According to the stakeholders, a European guidance framework should describe consistent requirements and procedures for implementing eIC on a pan-European level. Generally, stakeholders agreed with the definitions of eIC issued by the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration. Nevertheless, it was raised that, in a European guidance framework, it should be emphasized that eIC aims to support rather than replace the personal interaction between research participants and the research team. In addition, it was believed that a European guidance framework should include details on the legality of eIC across European Union Member States and the responsibilities of an ethics committee in the eIC assessment process. Although stakeholders supported the idea to include detailed information on the type of eIC-related materials to be submitted to an ethics committee, opinions varied on this regard.

Conclusion

The creation of a European guidance framework is a much needed factor to advance eIC implementation in clinical research. By collecting the views of multiple stakeholder groups, this study advances recommendations that may facilitate the development of such a framework. Particular consideration should go to harmonizing requirements and providing practical details related to eIC implementation on a European Union-wide level.
Health workforce perceptions on telehealth augmentation opportunities
Authors: Thomas L. T. , Lee C. M. Y. , McClelland K. , Nunis G. , Robinson S. , Norman R.
Published: February 2023

Background

The availability and use of telehealth to support health care access from a distance has expanded in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth services have supported regional and remote health care access for many years and could be augmented to improve health care accessibility, acceptability and overall experiences for both consumers and clinicians. This study aimed to explore health workforce representatives’ needs and expectations to move beyond existing telehealth models and plan for the future of virtual care.

Methods

To inform recommendations for augmentation, semi-structured focus group discussions were held (November–December 2021). Health workforce representatives with experience in health care delivery via telehealth across country Western Australia were approached and invited to join a discussion.

Results

Focus group participants included 53 health workforce representatives, with between two and eight participants per discussion. In total, 12 focus groups were conducted: seven were specific to regions, three with staff in centralised roles, and two with a mixture of participants from regional and central roles. Findings identified four key areas for telehealth augmentation: improvements required to existing service practice and processes; equity and access considerations; health workforce-focussed opportunities; and consumer-focussed opportunities.

Conclusions

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid increase in health services delivered via telehealth modalities, it is timely to explore opportunities to augment pre-existing models of care. Workforce representatives consulted in this study suggested modifications to existing process and practice that would improve the current models of care, and recommendations on ways to improve clinician and consumer experiences with telehealth. Improving experiences with virtual delivery of health care is likely to support continued use and acceptance of this modality in health care delivery.
The impact of road safety strategy and policy on admissions to a national rehabilitation hospital; a 5-year retrospective review and reflection on trauma data
Authors: Carroll Áine , Sukumar Prasanth , O’Keeffe Aisling
Published: February 2023

Background

Globally, road traffic collisions (RTCs) are a common cause of death and disability. Although many countries, including Ireland, have road safety and trauma strategies, the impact on rehabilitation services is unclear. This study explores how admissions with RTC related injuries to a rehabilitation facility has changed over 5 years and how they contrast to major trauma audit (MTA) serious injury data from the same timeframe.

Methods

A retrospective review of healthcare records with data abstraction in accordance with best practice was performed. Fisher’s exact test and binary logistic regression were used to determine associations and statistical process control was used to analyse variation. All patients discharged with an International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 10 coded diagnosis of Transport accidents from 2014 to 2018 were included. In addition, serious injury data was abstracted from MTA reports.

Results

338 cases were identified. Of these, 173 did not meet the inclusion criteria (readmissions) and were excluded. The total number analyzed was 165. Of these, 121 (73%) were male and 44 (27%) were female and 115 (72%) were under 40 years of age. The majority [128 (78%)] had traumatic brain injuries (TBI), 33 (20%) had traumatic spinal cord injuries and 4 (2.4%) had traumatic amputation The numbers varied over the time period of the study but showed normal variation and not special cause variation which suggests no significant impact of policy in the time frame. There was a large discrepancy between the number of severe TBIs reported in the MTA reports and the numbers admitted with RTC related TBI to the National Rehabilitation University Hospital (NRH). This suggests there may be many people not accessing the specialist rehabilitation services they require.

Conclusion

Data linkage between administrative and health datasets does not currently exist but offers huge potential for understanding the trauma and rehabilitation ecosystem in detail. This is required to better understand the impact of strategy and policy.
HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 reduces resistance of mutant-KRAS non-small cell lung cancer to pemetrexed through a HDAC2/miR-130a-3p-dependent mechanism
Authors: Cui Jian , Xu Fei , Bai Wei , Zhao Tiantian , Hong Junbo , Zuo Wei
Published: February 2023

Background

Histone deacetylases (HDAC) contribute to oncogenic program, pointing to their inhibitors as a potential strategy against cancers. We, thus, studied the mechanism of HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 in resistance of mutant (mut)-KRAS non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to pemetrexed (Pem).

Methods

We first determined the expression of NSCLC tumorigenesis-related HDAC2 and Rad51 in NSCLC tissues and cells. Next, we illustrated the effect of ITF2357 on the Pem resistance in wild type-KARS NSCLC cell line H1299, mut-KARS NSCLC cell line A549 and Pem-resistant mut-KARS cell line A549R in vitro and in xenografts of nude mice in vivo.

Results

Expression of HDAC2 and Rad51 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells. Accordingly, it was revealed that ITF2357 downregulated HDAC2 expression to diminish the resistance of H1299, A549 and A549R cells to Pem. HDAC2 bound to miR-130a-3p to upregulate its target gene Rad51. The in vitro findings were reproduced in vivo, where ITF2357 inhibited the HDAC2/miR-130a-3p/Rad51 axis to reduce the resistance of mut-KRAS NSCLC to Pem.

Conclusion

Taken together, HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 restores miR-130a-3p expression by inhibiting HDAC2, thereby repressing Rad51 and ultimately diminishing resistance of mut-KRAS NSCLC to Pem. Our findings suggested HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 as a promising adjuvant strategy to enhance the sensitivity of mut-KRAS NSCLC to Pem.
Majorization and semidoubly stochastic operators on $L^{1}(X)$
Authors: Manjegani Seyed Mahmoud , Moein Shirin
Published: February 2023

This paper is devoted to a study of majorization based on semidoubly stochastic operators (denoted by $S\mathcal{D}(L^{1})$
S
D
(

L
1

)
) on $L^{1}(X)$

L
1

(
X
)
when X is a σ-finite measure space. We answer Mirsky’s question and characterize the majorization by means of semidoubly stochastic maps on $L^{1}(X)$

L
1

(
X
)
. We prove some results on semidoubly stochastic operators such as a strong relation of semidoubly stochastic operators and integral stochastic operators and relatively weak compactness of $S_{f}=\{Sf : S\in S\mathcal{D}(L^{1})\}$

S
f

=
{
S
f
:
S
∈
S
D
(

L
1

)
}
for a fixed element $f\in L^{1}(X)$
f
∈

L
1

(
X
)
by proving the equiintegrability of $S_{f}$

S
f

. We present a full characterization of majorization on a σ-finite measure space X.
Attitudes toward depression among Ecuadorian physicians using the Spanish-validated version of the Revised Depression Attitude Questionnaire (R-DAQ)
Authors: Valdevilla Figueira José Alejandro , Mautong Hans , Camacho L Genesis , Cherrez Michelle , Orellana Román Carlos , Alvarado-Villa Geovanny Efraín , Sarfraz Zouina , Sarfraz Azza , Agolli Arjola , Farfán Bajaña María José , Vanegas Emanuel , Felix Miguel , Michel Jack , Espinoza-Fuentes Fernando , Maquilón Jaime Rosero , Cherrez Ojeda Ivan
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Depression is inadequately recognized and managed, and physicians’ attitudes toward this condition and its treatment may play a part in this. This study aimed to assess Ecuadorian physicians' attitudes toward depression.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted using the validated Revised Depression Attitude Questionnaire (R-DAQ). The questionnaire was delivered to Ecuadorian physicians, and the response rate was 88.8%.

Results

76.4% of participants had never received previous training in depression, and 52.1% of them indicated neutral or limited professional confidence when dealing with depressed patients. More than two-thirds of the participants reported an optimistic attitude toward the generalist perspective of depression.

Conclusion

Overall, physicians in Ecuador's healthcare settings were optimistic and held positive attitudes toward patients with depression. However, a lack of confidence in the management of depression and a need for ongoing training were found, especially among medical professionals who are not in daily contact with patients with depression.
The time cost of physiologically ineffective intravenous fluids in the emergency department: an observational pilot study employing wearable Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Kenny Jon-Émile S. , Gibbs Stanley O. , Johnston Delaney , Yang Zhen , Hofer Lisa M. , Elfarnawany Mai , Eibl Joseph K. , Johnson Amanda , Buecker Anthony J. , Lau Vivian C. , Kemp Benjamin O.
Published: February 2023

Background

Little data exist on the time spent by emergency department (ED) personnel providing intravenous (IV) fluid to ‘responsive’ versus ‘unresponsive’ patients.

Methods

A prospective, convenience sample of adult ED patients was studied; patients were enrolled if preload expansion was indicated for any reason. Using a novel, wireless, wearable ultrasound, carotid artery Doppler was obtained before and throughout a preload challenge (PC) prior to each bag of ordered IV fluid. The treating clinician was blinded to the results of the ultrasound. IV fluid was deemed ‘effective’ or ‘ineffective’ based on the greatest change in carotid artery corrected flow time (ccFT∆) during the PC. The duration, in minutes, of each bag of IV fluid administered was recorded.

Results

53 patients were recruited and 2 excluded for Doppler artifact. There were 86 total PCs included in the investigation comprising 81.7 L of administered IV fluid. 19,667 carotid Doppler cardiac cycles were analyzed. Using ccFT∆ ≥  + 7 ms to discriminate ‘physiologically effective’ from ‘ineffective’ IV fluid, we observed that 54 PCs (63%) were ‘effective’, comprising 51.7 L of IV fluid, whereas, 32 (37%) were ‘ineffective’ comprising 30 L of IV fluid. 29.75 total hours across all 51 patients were spent in the ED providing IV fluids categorized as ‘ineffective.’

Conclusions

We report the largest-known carotid artery Doppler analysis (i.e., roughly 20,000 cardiac cycles) in ED patients requiring IV fluid expansion. A clinically significant amount of time was spent providing physiologically ineffective IV fluid. This may represent an avenue to improve ED care efficiency.
The strength and microstructure of cemented sand-gravel (CSG) mixture containing fine-grained particles
Authors: Karimi Sina , Farshbaf Aghajani Hamed
Published: February 2023

The hardfill embankments are composed of cemented sand-gravel (CSG) mixtures. In some cases, however, sand and gravel used in the mixture contain fine-grained fraction. This paper aimed to study the mechanical behavior and microstructure of CSG mixtures in which the base soil contains fine-grained particles with different plasticity specifications. Various contents of kaolinite and bentonite were added to a sand-cement mixture with different cement contents and uniaxial strength and deformation modulus in the mixtures were measured at two curing ages. According to the results, in low cement mixtures, the mixture containing 10% of the additive exhibited the maximum strength and deformation modulus, regardless of the additive type. In a family of bentonite-containing mixtures with higher cement, the strength of mixtures decreased with increasing the bentonite content. However, the mixture with higher cement and 10% of kaolinite presented the best performance from in terms of strength and stiffness. Analyzing the mineralogy and SEM images of mixtures showed that the structure of base soil attained the best packing and a strong matrix was devolved inside the mixture with 10% of fine additive. Furthermore, the kaolinite particles in the mixture containing 10% kaolinite contributed to the hydration process of cement.
A case of Hirschsprung’s disease with segmental dilatation of the colon
Authors: Yokokawa Hideyuki , Yoshida Mariko , Takazawa Shinya , Kutsukake Mai , Omata Kanako , Ogawa Shoko , Fujishiro Jun
Published: February 2023

Background

Segmental dilatation of the colon (SDC) is a rare disease that is characterized by an abrupt segment of dilated colon between regions of normal-sized colon. We herein report a case of SDC associated with Hirschsprung’s disease (HD).

Case presentation

The patient developed abdominal distension soon after birth, and enema examination showed localized intestinal dilatation from the descending colon to the sigmoid colon with significant caliber changes on both the oral and anal sides of the dilated colon. The findings of the rectal mucosal biopsy were consistent with HD. We considered this case to be a combination of HD and SDC and performed laparoscopic-assisted Soave pull-through with resection of the dilated colon when the patient was 7 months old. Resected specimens showed steep caliber changes on the oral and anal sides of the dilated colon. In the pathological examination, no ganglion cells were found in the submucosa on the anal side of the dilated colon. Based on the above findings, we finally made the diagnosis of HD with SDC.

Conclusion

In HD with a characteristic dilated colon, the possibility of SDC should be considered.
Novel variants of SYNGAP1 associated epileptic encephalopathy: two cases report and literature review
Authors: Zeng Xingying , Chen Yong , Yu Xiongying , Che Yuanyuan , Chen Hui , Yi Zhaoshi , Qin Jie , Zhong Jianmin
Published: February 2023

Background

SYNGAP1 is a significant genetic risk factor for global developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder, and epileptic encephalopathy. De novo loss-of-function variants in this gene cause a neurodevelopmental disorder, for example, early-onset and drug-refractory seizures. We report two children with global developmental delay and epileptic encephalopathy, which are caused by SYNGAP1 gene novel mutations, and drug treatment is effective.

Case presentation

We report a boy and a girl presented with global developmental delay when they were young babies; as they grew up, cognitive impairment and social-communication disorder became more and more prominent; unfortunately, the patients developed into various seizure types, including eyelid myoclonia, myoclonic and absences when the boy was 1 year 8 mouths old and the girl was 3 years old. The two patients were found two previously unknown mutations by high throughput sequencing [c.3271_ c.3272insT; (p.L1091L fs*62), c.2515A > T (p.K839*)] in exon 15 of the SYNGAP in the proband. Sanger sequencing confirmed the heterozygous nature, and neither of their parents carried the same mutation. The girl treated with valproic acid and prednisone became seizure-free, and valproic acid and levetiracetam combined with clonazepam were influential in the other.

Conclusions

The global developmental delay and epileptic encephalopathy of the children were probably due to the pathogenic mutation of the SYNGAP1 gene, and prednisone and clonazepam may be effective in achieving seizure-free.
The incidence and trends of laryngeal malignancies in Sri Lanka from 2001 to 2019: a Joinpoint analysis of the national cancer database
Authors: Jayarajah Umesh , Jayasinghe Ravindri , Fernando Ashan , Seneviratne Sanjeewa
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Laryngeal cancer is the ninth commonest cancer among Asian males. Global and regional epidemiological analyses have shown varying patterns in the incidence and risk factors for laryngeal cancer. Therefore, we aimed to analyse the trends in the incidence and histological patterns of laryngeal cancers for the first time in Sri Lanka.

Methods

We used the population-based Sri Lanka cancer registry data and pooled all newly diagnosed patients with laryngeal malignancies from 2001 to 2019 (a 19-year study period). The WHO age-standardised incidence rates (ASR) were calculated using the WHO standard pollution. We used the Joinpoint regression software to calculate the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) and analysed the trends in the incidence by different age categories and sex.

Results

From 2001 to 2019, 9808 new cases of laryngeal cancers (males = 8927, 91%, mean age = 62 years) were registered. The incidence of laryngeal cancers was greatest in the 70–74-year followed by 65–69-year age groups. Around 7.9% were reported as carcinoma not otherwise specified (NOS). Squamous cell carcinoma (90.1%) was the commonest documented histology type. A rise in the WHO-ASR was noted from 1.91 per 100,000 in 2001 [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.69–2.12] to 3.59 per 100,000 in 2017 [(95% CI: 3.34–3.84); EAPC: 4.4 (95% CI: 3.7–5.2), p < 0.05 for trend] followed by a decrease in the incidence [2.97 per 100,000 in 2019 (95% CI: 2.74–3.2), EAPC: − 7.2 (95% CI: − 21.1–9.1, p > 0.05)]. From 2001 to 2017, the proportional increase in incidence was greater in males than females [EAPC: 4.9 (95% CI: 4.1–5.7 vs. 3.7 (95% CI: 1.7–5.6)].

Conclusions

We identified an increasing incidence of laryngeal cancer in Sri Lanka from 2001 to 2017 followed by a slight decrease. Further studies are essential to identify the aetiological factors. Development of laryngeal cancer prevention and screening programmes for high-risk populations may be considered.
Media-government interactions and foreign policy
Authors: Τουρή Μαρία
Published: February 2023

Η διατριβή παρέχει μια συστηματική κατανόηση της σχέσης μέσων ενημέρωσης και κυβέρνησης κατά την άσκηση της εξωτερικής πολιτικής και μια προσέγγιση του ρόλου και του αντίκτυπου των μέσων ενημέρωσης στις διαδικασίες λήψης αποφάσεων. Καλύπτει ιδιαίτερα μια έλλειψη στην υπάρχουσα βιβλιογραφία, όσον αφορά τη δυνατότητα των μέσων ενημέρωσης να επηρεάζουν τα αποτελέσματα των αποφάσεων. Η διατριβή προσεγγίζει τα μέσα ενημέρωσης στο πλαίσιο μιας αλληλεπίδρασης με την κυβέρνηση, η οποία αντανακλά μια σύνθετη διασύνδεση των μέσων ενημέρωσης και των αποφάσεων των πολιτικών και διερευνάται εδώ με την εφαρμογή της θεωρίας των παιγνίων. Η διατριβή αναπτύσσει ένα µοντέλο θεωρίας παιγνίων, το οποίο προσδιορίζει τα µέσα ενηµέρωσης ως ένα φορέα επηροής και όχι ως ένα απλό όργανο στα χέρια των πολιτικών. Εξετάζει τις απολαβές και το κόστος που συνεπάγονται οι αποφάσεις των πολιτικών στο πλαίσιο αυτής της αλληλεπίδρασης και επικεντρώνεται στην πιθανή επιρροή που ασκούν οι αποφάσεις των μέσων ενημέρωσης στις απολαβές της κυβέρνησης.
The genome sequence of the Buff Ermine, Spilarctia lutea (Hufnagel, 1766)
Authors: Boyes Douglas ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Holland Peter W. H. ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Spilarctia lutea (the Buff Ermine; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Erebidae). The genome sequence is 584.8 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,304 protein coding genes.
Performance Comparison of SOM and ACO for Travelling Salesman Problem-Case Study on the Indonesia Palapa Ring Network
Authors:   School of Electrical Engineering and Informatics Bandung Institute of Technology, Bandung, Indonesia, Negara Ridha M. , Mayasari Ratna , Syambas Nana R.
Published: February 2023

Indonesia is an archipelagic country separated by the sea, so it has unique characteristics. Building a telecommunications network that optimally connects Indonesia's islands is essential. Currently, telecommunications networks in Indonesia are connected using the Palapa Ring Indonesia network. Several adjacent islands must specify the closest point to choose a neighbouring route. This paper uses a travelling salesman problem (TSP) that uses the Self-Organizing Map (SOM) and Ant-Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithms to determine the shortest route and optimal computation time. Paper modification has several parameters: number of iterations, neuron size, and space. The measurement results show that SOM is better at measuring the shortest route length and computational time than ACO. By setting the number of iterations below 500 and the M value as much as the number of neurons, the route obtained by SOM will be shorter with a shorter time.
Accuracy and Cluster Analysis of 5.3 GHz Indoor and 285 MHz Semi-urban MIMO LOS and NLOS Propagation Multipaths
Authors:   De La Salle University, Philippines, Jr. Antipas T. Teologo , Materum Lawrence
Published: February 2023

Over the past decade, several studies have been conducted to discover a better-performing multipath clustering technique. Developing a multipath clustering technique with better accuracy performance is a big challenge considering the varying properties of the multipath propagations that change over time. In this study, several clustering techniques have been investigated and compared to the newly-developed technique for performance analysis. Using the Jaccard score as a metric for the accuracy of grouping correctly the wireless multipaths, the performance of the different clustering techniques has been determined and compared to the newly-developed technique. The proposed clustering algorithm shows improved performance in the indoor channel scenarios but needs further investigation in the semi-urban environment.
Electronic educational resource "Biochemical laboratory"
Authors: Meshchaninov V.N. , Gavrilov I.V. , Shestakova A.A.
Published: February 2023

Данный симуляционный комплекс предназначен для овладение студентами практических умений и навыков по биохимии для формирования общиго представления о биохимических реакциях, лежащих в основе физиологических процессов человека, изменениях их в онтогенезе и под влиянием различных факторов; изучения биохимических механизмов развития основных патологических процессов; знакомства с принципами метаболической терапии основных патологических процессов.
Semaglutide in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Mazurek Magdalena , Białowąs Edyta , Dybała Ewelina , Cuber Iwona , Aghadi Artur
Published: February 2023

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasing problem in the modern world due to increased morbidity and due to its clinical consequences. It is a chronic liver disease, histologically divided into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NAFL) with isolated steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is characterized by hepatocyte injury, inflammation, and variable degrees of fibrosis that can progress to cirrhosis in a fraction of patients. Data on the prevalence of NAFLD vary depending on the population studied and the method used to establish the diagnosis, but the prevalence rate ranges from 6% to 35%, with a median of 20%. The prevalence of NASH in the European population is estimated at 5-6%, which makes NAFLD a new civilizational challenge.

Aim of the study: The following article as an analysis of the current medical knowledge on the effectiveness and safety of NAFLD and NASH treatment with semaglutide based on available publications.

Methods and materials: Literature review based on PubMed data using the following key words: NAFLD; NASH; semaglutide; Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues

State of knowledge: GLP-1 receptor agonists are incretin drugs. This class of drugs has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Results: There is currently no approved therapy for NAFLD or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Beneficial effect of semaglutide on glycemia and weight loss makes them an attractive potential therapeutic form in NASH. However, there is a need for more clinical studies, on larger groups of people to recognize the effective form of semaglutide NAFLD therapy.
Ketogenic diet - a literature review
Authors: Cuber Iwona , Aghadi Artur , Białowąs Edyta , Dybała Ewelina , Mazurek Magdalena , Górna Marta
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The ketogenic diet, originally used in the treatment of epilepsy, has recently attracted increasing interest from scientists. There are more and more reports about the possible benefits of using KD.
Aim of the study: The aim of the study is to present the assumptions of the ketogenic diet and the effects of its use in weight reduction, treatment of type 2 diabetes and the treatment of cancer and dementia.
Description of the state of knowledge: Beneficial effects of the use of a ketogenic diet related to weight reduction and improvement of the lipid profile have been described. The ketogenic diet also allows  to reduce the intake of antidiabetic drugs and reduce or discontinue insulin therapy. Animal studies also suggest benefits of using KD in the treatment of cancer. However, studies involving humans are lacking. There are also reports of the effect of KD on delaying the onset of dementia symptoms.
Summary: Despite very promising scientific reports, there are no long-term studies on the impact of the ketogenic diet on cardiovascular risk. Therefore, it should be used after weighing the pros and cons.
Eficiencia técnica y sus determinantes en micronegocios manufactureros: un análisis de productividad en sección cruzada
Authors: Hoyos Pontón Carlos Enrique
Published: February 2023

Usando datos desagregados, se estiman los niveles de eficiencia técnica en micronegocios manufactureros para las seis principales áreas metropolitanas de Colombia, mediante el análisis de frontera estocástica (Aigner, Lovell & Schmidt, 1977; Meeusen & Van den Broeck, 1977). Se evalúa el efecto de algunas de las barreras al crecimiento de la productividad identificadas por Busom y Vélez-Ospina (2017) y Pagés (2010), y por el Conpes 3527 de 2008, por medio del empleo de una función de distribución de ineficiencia (Battese & Coelli, 1995). Los resultados evidencian que el nivel medio de eficiencia técnica en costes de la muestra alcanza un 61.6 %. Los índices de eficiencia de las áreas metropolitanas dentro del país son superiores a los de la periferia. El registro en cámara de comercio, el acceso a crédito, así como el uso de capital tic, se asocian con mayores niveles de eficiencia técnica. Los micronegocios con mujeres a la cabeza se relacionan con menores tasas de eficiencia en el uso de factores.