bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low physical activity is the strongest factor associated with frailty phenotype and frailty index: data from baseline phase of Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS)
Authors: Sobhani Ameneh , Sharifi Farshad , Fadayevatan Reza , Kamrani Ahmad Ali Akbari , Moodi Mitra , Khorashadizadeh Masoumeh , Kazemi Toba , Khodabakhshi Huriye , Fakhrzadeh Hossein , Arzaghi Masoud , Badrkhahan Seyedeh Zahra , Hosseini Raziye Sadat , Monji Hadi , Nikkhah Amirabbas
Published: June 2022

Background

Frailty is the most complicated expression of aging that is related to disability or multi-morbidity. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of frailty and its associated factors among community-dwelling aged population.

Methods

A total of 1529 eligible community- dwelling older adults (≥ 60 years) were enrolled in the baseline phase of Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS) from 2019 to 2020. Their frailty status was assessed using the Fried’s frailty phenotype and frailty index. Sociodemographic factors, including sex, age, marital status, and education level, were collected. Health status assessment included the history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s diseases and dementia, and other health conditions. Furthermore, functional assessment (ADL, IADL) and anthropometric measurements including height, weight, waist, calf, and mid-arm circumference were made and the body mass index was calculated. The nutrition status and polypharmacy (use 3 or more medication) were also evaluated.

Results

The prevalence of frailty was 21.69% according to the frailty phenotype and 23.97% according to the frailty index. A multiple logistic regression model showed a strong association between low physical activity and frailty phenotype (OR = 36.31, CI = 16.99–77.56, P < 0.01), and frailty index (OR = 15.46, CI = 5.65–42.34, P < 0.01). Other factors like old age (≥80), female sex, malnutrition, polypharmacy, obesity, and arthritis were also associated with frailty. The Kappa coefficient of the agreement between these two instruments was 0.18.

Conclusion

It seems that low physical activity is the most important determinant of frailty. Low physical activity and some other factors may be preventable or modifiable and thus serve as clinically relevant targets for intervention.
Safety use of high frequency oscillatory ventilation in transport of newborn infants affected by severe respiratory failure: preliminary data in central Tuscany
Authors: Belli Gilda , Dovadola Ilaria , Berti Elettra , Padrini Letizia , Agostini Elisabetta , Serafini Lisa , Ingargiola Anna , Gabbrielli Gabriella , Sandini Elena , Azzarà Angelo , Catarzi Serena , Cioni Maria Luce , Petrucci Letizia , Paternoster Filomena , Moroni Marco
Published: June 2022

Background

Neonatal Emergency Transport Services play a fundamental role in neonatal care. Stabilization before transport of newborns suffering from severe respiratory failure is often a challenging problem and some critically ill infants may benefit from High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation (HFOV) as rescue treatment. In these cases, transition to conventional ventilation for transport may cause a deterioration in clinical conditions. HFOV during neonatal transport has been only exceptionally used, due to technical difficulties. Since May 2018, a new neonatal transport unit is available at the Neonatal Protected Transport Service of the Meyer University Hospital in Florence, equipped with a pulmonary ventilator capable of delivering HFOV. Therefore, we conducted an analysis on patients transferred in HFOV to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), in order to evaluate the safety and feasibility of its use during neonatal transport.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed reviewing medical records of the neonates transported by Meyer Children Hospital’s Neonatal Transport Service between May 2018 and December 2020, and newborns treated with HFOV during ground neonatal transport were identified. Safety was assessed by the comparison of vital signs, hemogas-analysis values and pulmonary ventilator parameters, at the time of departure and upon arrival in NICU. The dose of inotropes, the main respiratory complications (air leak, dislocation or obstruction of the endotracheal tube, loss of chest vibrations) and the number of deaths and transfer failures were recorded.

Results

Out of the approximate 400 newborns transported during the analysis period, 9 were transported in HFOV. We did not find any statistically significant difference in vital parameters, hemogas-analytical values and pulmonary ventilator settings recorded before and after neonatal transport of the nine patients’ parameters (p > 0,05). No patient required additional inotropes during transport. No transport-related deaths or significant complications occurred during transport.

Conclusions

The interest of our report is in the possibility of using HFOV during inter-hospital neonatal transfer. As far as our experience has shown, HFOV appears to be safe for the transportation of newborns with severe respiratory failure. Nevertheless, further larger, prospective and multicentre studies are needed to better evaluate the safety and efficacy of HFOV during neonatal transport.
Spirometry as a motivator for smoking cessation among patients attending the smoking cessation clinic of Monastir
Authors: Ben Fredj Manel , Garrach Behaeddin , Bennasrallah Cyrine , Migaou Asma , Abroug Hela , Dhouib Wafa , Zemni Imen , Kacem Meriem , Bouanene Ines , Belguith Sriha Asma
Published: June 2022

Background

The choice of spirometry, a biomarker of lung health, as a motivator for smoking cessation is based on its fidelity in emphasizing tobacco adverse effects. Yet, there is a paucity of evidence on its efficacy, and the findings are currently inconclusive. The aim of this study was to determine whether a spirometry and lung age communication has an effect on smoking cessation rates.

Methodology

We conducted a randomized controlled trial among patients who attended the smoking cessation clinic (SCC) at Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital in Monastir, from June 2017 to February 2020. Participants were assigned into two groups, a control arm receiving standard program and intervention arm receiving a spirometry and lung age announcement along with usual care. The primary outcomes were the smoking cessation rates after one year of follow-up between the intervention arm and the control arm.

Results

At one-year endpoint, a total of 456 were reachable for assessment, 236 in control group and 220 in spirometry group, which leads to a loss rate equal to 8.8%. One-year smoking cessation rate was higher among the intervention group than among control group (25.5% versus 16.5%), with a considerable statistical significance (p = 0.019). Lung age was significantly higher at paired comparison with chronological age.

Conclusion

Smoking cessation is still a challenging procedure with a high risk of relapse, making very valuable any approach that may increase motivation in both unmotivated and motivated smokers. This study is an additional evidence for spirometry and lung age announcement as motivators for smoking cessation.

Trial registration

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry database (PACTR202110595729653), 06/10/ 2021.
Quercetin treatment protects the Achilles tendons of rats from oxidative stress induced by hyperglycemia
Authors: Yoshikawa Tomoya , Mifune Yutaka , Inui Atsuyuki , Nishimoto Hanako , Yamaura Kohei , Mukohara Shintaro , Shinohara Issei , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: June 2022

Background

Quercetin, a flavonoid abundantly in vegetables and fruits, exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated the protective effects of quercetin against oxidative stress in the Achilles tendons of diabetic rats.

Methods

Cells were collected from the Achilles tendons of Sprague–Dawley rats and cultured under four conditions: regular glucose (RG) without quercetin (Quer-), RG with quercetin (Quer +), high-glucose (HG) Quer-, and HG Quer + . The expression of genes related to NADPH oxidase (NOX) and inflammation, reactive oxygen species accumulation, and apoptosis rates was analyzed. Additionally, diabetic rats were divided into two groups and subjected to quercetin (group Q) or no quercetin (group C) treatment. Histological evaluation and expression analysis of relevant genes in the Achilles tendon were performed.

Results

In rat tendon-derived cells, the expression of Nox1, Nox4, and Il6; reactive oxygen species accumulation; and apoptosis rates were significantly decreased by quercetin treatment in the HG group. The collagen fiber arrangement was significantly disorganized in the diabetic rat Achilles tendons in group C compared with that in group Q. The mRNA and protein expression levels of NOX1 and NOX4 were significantly decreased upon quercetin treatment. Furthermore, the expression of Il6, type III collagen, Mmp2, and Timp2 was significantly decreased, whereas that of type I collagen was significantly increased in group Q compared with that in group C.

Conclusions

Quercetin treatment decreases NOX expression and thus exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the Achilles tendons of diabetic rats. Quercetin treatment may be effective against diabetic tendinopathy.
Intake of whole grain foods and risk of coronary heart disease in US men and women
Authors: Hu Yang , Willett Walter C. , Manson Jo Ann E. , Rosner Bernard , Hu Frank B. , Sun Qi
Published: June 2022

Background

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated a favorable association of whole grain intake with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk, although whether such an inverse association holds true for individual whole grain foods that have various nutritional profiles has not been examined.

Methods

We followed 74,244 women from Nurses’ Health Study since 1986, 91,430 women from Nurses’ Health Study II since 1991, and 39,455 men from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study since 1984, who did not have a history of cardiovascular disease or cancer at baseline. Intake of seven individual whole grain foods was repeatedly assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire every 2–4 years since baseline. CHD diagnoses were ascertained through review of medical records or death certificates.

Results

We documented 9461 CHD cases during an average of 25.8 years’ follow-up. In the multivariable-adjusted model, the pooled hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) of CHD risk corresponding to each one serving/day consumption of total whole grains was 0.93 (0.90–0.95; p trend <0.0001). Higher consumption of most individual whole grain foods was associated with significantly lower risk of CHD. Comparing participants consuming ≥1 serving/day with those consuming < 1 serving/month, the multivariable-adjusted pooled HRs (95% CIs) of CHD were 0.83 (0.78–0.89) for whole grain cold breakfast cereal, 0.92 (0.86–0.99) for dark bread, and 1.08 (0.96–1.22) for popcorn. For other whole grain foods with lower overall intake levels, comparing intake level of ≥2 servings/week with < 1 serving/month, the pooled hazard ratios (95% CIs) were 0.79 (0.74–0.84) for oatmeal, 0.79 (0.71–0.87) for brown rice, 0.84 (0.78–0.90) for added bran, and 0.87 (0.77–0.99) for wheat germ. Cubic spline regression suggested non-linear associations for certain whole grain foods: the risk reduction plateaued approximately over 2 servings/day for total whole grains, 0.5 serving/day for both cold breakfast cereal and dark bread, 0.5 serving/week for oatmeal, 1 serving/week for brown rice, and 2 serving/week for added bran (p for non-linearity <0.01 for all associations).

Conclusions

These data suggest that higher consumption of total whole grains, as well as individual whole grain foods except popcorn, were significantly associated with lower CHD risk. The inverse associations may plateau at various intake levels for total whole grain and individual whole grain foods. This study provides further evidence in support of increasing whole grain intake for the prevention of CHD in US populations.
Single medium-sized hepatocellular carcinoma treated with sequential conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) and microwave ablation at 4 weeks versus cTACE alone: a propensity score
Authors: Zhu Zi-yi , Yuan Mu , Yang Pei-Pei , Xie Bo , Wei Jian-zhu , Qin Zhong-qiang , Qian Zhen , Wang Zhao-Ying , Fan Long-Fei , Qian Jing-yu , Tan Yu-lin
Published: June 2022

Background

Microwave ablation (MWA) is a potentially curative treatment for unresectable patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ≤ 3 cm, while its therapeutic efficacy decreases significantly for HCC > 3cm. Previous studies have demonstrated that conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) combined with MWA (cTACE-MWA) may improve local tumor control rate and reduce the recurrence rate for HCC > 3cm. However, there have been few study designs to analyze the clinical efficacy of cTACE-MWA for medium-sized HCC (3–5cm). Therefore, this study aims to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of cTACE-MWA with cTACE alone for a single medium-sized HCC of 3–5 cm in diameter.

Methods

We retrospectively investigate the data of 90 patients with a single medium-sized HCC who were referred to our hospital and underwent cTACE-MWA or cTACE alone from December 2017 to March 2020. Then, patients were identified with propensity score-matched (1:1). The local tumor response to treatment and time to progression (TTP) were compared using mRECIST criteria between the cTACE-MWA group and the cTACE group.

Results

A total of 42 patients were included after matching (cTACE-MWA: 21; cTACE: 21). Comparing with cTACE, cTACE-MWA demonstrate significantly better local tumor control (ORR: 95.2% vs 61.9%, p = 0.02; DCR: 95.2% vs 66.7%, p = 0.045) and TTP (median 19.8 months vs 6.8 months, p < 0.001). The 1- and 2-year cumulative probabilities of OS were 100% and 95% in the cTACE-MWA group, which were significantly higher than those in the cTACE group (95% and 76%) (p = 0.032). Multivariate Cox regression analysis illustrates that cTACE-MWA was associated with better TTP (hazard ratio, 0.28; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.76; p = 0.012), but tumor size was associated with worse TTP (hazard ratio, 1.71; 95% CI: 1.01, 2.89; p = 0.045).

Conclusions

cTACE followed by MWA improved TTP and OS in patients with a single medium-sized HCC, and no major complication was observed in this study.
Conversion surgery for microsatellite instability-high gastric cancer with a complete pathological response to pembrolizumab: a case report
Authors: Hidaka Yoshifumi , Arigami Takaaki , Osako Yusaku , Desaki Ryosuke , Hamanoue Masahiro , Takao Sonshin , Kirishima Mari , Ohtsuka Takao
Published: June 2022

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are reportedly effective in treating microsatellite instability (MSI)-high gastric cancer. There are a few case reports of conversion surgery (CS) with nivolumab but none with pembrolizumab. Herein, we describe a patient with MSI-high gastric cancer who was successfully treated with pembrolizumab and underwent CS with a pathological complete response.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old man was diagnosed with stage III gastric cancer (T3N2M0) based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography, which revealed a neoplastic lesion and enlarged perigastric lymph nodes in the gastric lesser curvature. The anterior superior lymph node of the common hepatic artery (CHA) was determined to be unresectable due to invasion of the pancreatic head and CHA. Histopathologically, the biopsied tissue showed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, then determined to be MSI-high. After three courses of mFOLFOX6 therapy, the patient was diagnosed with progressive disease. Since one course of paclitaxel plus ramucirumab therapy caused grade 3 fatigue, his second-line therapy was switched to pembrolizumab monotherapy. After three courses, the primary tumor and perigastric lymph nodes had shrunk, and it was determined as a partial response. The anterior superior lymph node of the CHA became resectable based on the improvement of infiltration of the pancreatic head and CHA due to shrinkage of the lymph node. Tumor markers remained low; hence, distal gastrectomy plus D2 lymphadenectomy was performed at the end of six courses. Anterior superior lymph node of the CHA was confirmed by intraoperative ultrasonography, and the resection was completed safely. The gross examination of the resected specimen revealed an ulcer scar at the primary tumor site. The histopathological examination showed no viable tumor cell remnants in the primary tumor, which had a grade 3 histological response, and resection margins were negative. The lymph nodes showed mucus retention only in the anterior superior lymph node of the CHA, indicating the presence of metastasis, but no viable tumor cells remained. The patient commenced 6 months of adjuvant pembrolizumab monotherapy 3 months after surgery. Twenty months after surgery, there was no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions

Conversion surgery following pembrolizumab monotherapy has a potential utility for the treatment of MSI-high gastric cancer.
Prognostic value of p16, p53, and pcna in sarcoma and an evaluation of immune infiltration
Authors: Cai Dechao , Ma Xiao , Guo Huihui , Zhang Haotian , Bian Ashuai , Yu Haoran , Cheng Wendan
Published: June 2022

Background

p16, p53, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (pcna) genes play significant roles in many chromatin modifications and have been found to be highly expressed in a variety of tumor tissues. Therefore, they have been used as target genes for some tumor therapies. However, the differential expressions of the p16, p53, and pcna genes in human sarcomas and their effects on prognosis have not been widely reported.

Methods

The Oncomine dataset was used to analyze the transcription levels of p16, p53, and pcna genes, and the gene expression profile interactive analysis (GEPIA) dataset was used to analyze the differential expressions of p16, p53, and pcna. The expression levels of p16, p53, and pcna were further analyzed by Western Blotting. GEPIA and Kaplan–Meier analyses were used to analyze the prognostic value of p16, p53, and pcna. Furthermore, p16, p53, and pcna gene mutations and their association with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were analyzed using cBioPortal datasets. In addition, genes co-expressed with p16, p53, and pcna were analyzed using Oncomine. The DAVID dataset was used to analyze the functional enrichment of p16, p53, pcna, and their co-expressed genes by Gene Ontology (GO) and Metascape were used to construct a network map. Finally, the immune cell infiltration of p16, p53, and pcna in patients with sarcoma was reported by Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER).

Results

p16, p53, and pcna were up-regulated in human sarcoma tissues and almost all sarcoma cell lines. Western Blotting showed that the expression of p16, p53, and pcna was elevated in osteosarcoma cell lines. The expression of pcna was correlated with OS, the expression of p16, p53, and pcna was correlated with relapse-free survival, and the genetic mutation of p16 was negatively correlated with OS and DFS. We also found that p16, p53, and pcna genes were positively/negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration in sarcoma.

Conclusions

The results of this study showed that p16, p53, and pcna can significantly affect the survival and immune status of sarcoma patients. Therefore, p16, p53, and pcna could be used as potential biomarkers of prognosis and immune infiltration in human sarcoma and provide a possible therapeutic target for sarcoma.
Effects of COVID-19 lockdown on weight in a cohort of allergic children and adolescents
Authors: Brindisi Giulia , Di Marino Vincenza Patrizia , Olivero Francesca , De Canditiis Daniela , De Castro Giovanna , Zicari Anna Maria , Anania Caterina
Published: June 2022

Background

COVID-19 lockdown caused sudden changes in people’s lifestyle, as a consequence of the forced lockdown imposed by governments all over the world. We aimed to evaluate the impact of lockdown on body mass index (BMI) in a cohort of allergic children and adolescents.

Methods

From the first of June until the end of October 2020, we submitted a written questionnaire to all the patients who, after lockdown, carried out a visit at the Pediatric Allergy Unit of the Department of Mother-Child, Urological Science, Sapienza University of Rome. The questionnaire was composed by 10 questions, referring to the changes in their daily activities. Data were extrapolated from the questionnaire and then analyzed considering six variables: BMI before and BMI after lockdown, sugar intake, sport, screens, sleep, and anxiety.

Results

One hundred fifty-three patients agreed to answer our questionnaire. Results showed a statistically significant increase in the BMI after lockdown (20.97 kg/m2 ± 2.63) with respect to the BMI before lockdown (19.18 kg/m2 ± 2.70). A multivariate regression analysis showed that the two variables that mostly influenced the increase in BMI were sleep and anxiety.

Conclusions

For the analyzed cohort of allergic children and adolescents we obtained significant gain in BMI as consequences of lockdown, which can be explained by many factors: high consumption of consolatory food, less sport activities, more time spent in front of screens, sleep alteration associated with increased anxiety. All these factors acted together, although sleep alteration and increased anxiety were the most influential factors that led to the worsening or the onset of weight gain, creating the basis for future health problems.
Diagnostic therapeutic care pathway for pediatric food allergies and intolerances in Italy: a joint position paper by the Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP) and the Italian Society for Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP)
Authors: Berni Canani Roberto , Caffarelli Carlo , Calvani Mauro , Martelli Alberto , Carucci Laura , Cozzolino Tommaso , Alvisi Patrizia , Agostoni Carlo , Lionetti Paolo , Marseglia Gian Luigi
Published: June 2022

Epidemiologic data suggest an increased prevalence of pediatric food allergies and intolerances (FAIs) during the last decades. This changing scenario has led to an increase in the overall healthcare costs, due to a growing demand for diagnostic and treatment services. There is the need to establish Evidence-based practices for diagnostic and therapeutic intervention that could  be adopted in the context of public health policies for FAIs are needed.

This joint position paper has been prepared by a group of experts in pediatric gastroenterology, allergy and nutrition from the Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP) and the Italian Society for Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP). The paper is focused on the Diagnostic Therapeutic Care Pathway (DTCP) for pediatric FAIs in Italy.
The effect of a probiotic on gastrointestinal symptoms due to menstruation in healthy adult women on oral contraceptives: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial protocol
Authors: Judkins Taylor C. , Oula Marie-Laure , Sims Shireen Madani , Langkamp-Henken Bobbi
Published: June 2022

Introduction

For many women, uncomfortable and stressful symptoms accompany the menstrual cycle each month, sometimes in a debilitating manner. Previous studies have reported that gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy women significantly differ by the day of the menstrual cycle, but few studies have assessed interventions intended to minimize these symptoms. Probiotics supplements have been shown to attenuate gastrointestinal symptom severity as well as self-reported feelings of stress in various populations. This study evaluates the effect of a probiotic on abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy women who take an oral contraceptive, have regular menses, and typically experience these symptoms during menstruation with the primary aim being change in abdominal pain intensity related to the menstrual cycle with probiotic versus placebo supplementation.

Methods and analysis

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel study, participants will receive either a probiotic or placebo supplement. Participants will begin answering questionnaires approximately 7 days before the start of menstruation (i.e., active bleeding), and 3 days later, they will begin consuming the study supplement for 8 weeks. The questionnaires administered will collect data about abdominal pain severity (primary outcome) and duration related to the menstrual cycle, digestive health, dietary intake, stress, and digestion-associated quality-of-life. A subgroup of women will provide weekly vaginal swabs and stool samples to examine the effect of the probiotic supplement on microbiota composition and diversity for exploratory purposes. Two-sided tests using a linear model and a type I error rate of α = 0.05 will be employed to test all hypotheses. Continuous variables will be presented as means with standard errors and categorical variables, as counts or proportions.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was reviewed and approved by the University of Florida Institutional Review Board 01. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to any study activities. Study findings will be disseminated at scientific conferences and publication in the trial registry or in a peer-reviewed journal. Any protocol amendments will be reported in the final manuscript of this study.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04457401. Registered prospectively on 07 July 2020. The trial was completed in December of 2021.

Protocol version

V4.0 (11-04-2020)

Trial status

Currently recruiting. Recruitment began in November 2020 and extend until December 2021.
Cellulose polymers with β-amino ester pendant group: design, synthesis, molecular docking and application in adsorption of toxic metals from wastewater
Authors: Nairat Noor , Hamed Othman , Berisha Avni , Jodeh Shehdeh , Algarra Manuel , Azzaoui Khalil , Dagdag Omar , Samhan Subhi
Published: June 2022

Background

Cellulose polymers with multidentate chelating functionalities that have high efficiency for toxic metal ions present in water were designed, synthesized, and analyzed. The synthesis was carried out by reacting microcrystalline cellulose extracted from the solid waste of the olive industry with tert-Butyl acetoacetate (Cell-AA), produced cellulose with β-ketoester functionality was then reacted with aniline and the amino acid glycine to produce Cell-β-AN and Cell-β-GL, respectively.

Results

The adsorption efficiency of the three polymers toward Pb(II) and various toxic metal ions present in sewage was evaluated as a function of adsorbent dose, time, temperature, pH value, and initial ion concentration to determine optimum adsorption conditions. The three polymers showed excellent efficiency toward about 20 metal ions present in a sewage sample collected from the sewer. The adsorption process follows the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model with a second-order of adsorption rate, the calculated qe values (2.675, 15.252, 20.856 mg/g) were close to the experimental qe values (2.133, 13.91, 18.786 mg/g) for the three polymers Cell-AA, Cell-β-AG and Cell-β-AN, respectively. Molecular Dynamic (MD) and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations were performed on the three polymers complexed with Pb(II).

Conclusion

The waste material of the olive industry was used as a precursor for making the target cellulose polymers with β-Amino Ester Pendant Group. The polymer was characterized by SEM, proton NMR, TGA, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The efficacy of adsorption was quantitative for metal ions present in a real sample of wastewater and the efficiency didn’t drop even after 7 cycles of use. The results indicate the existence of strong complexation. The thermodynamic study results showed a spontaneous bonding between of Pb(II) and the polymers pendant groups expressed by the negative value of the Gibbs free energy.
On Mann implicit composite subgradient extragradient methods for general systems of variational inequalities with hierarchical variational inequality constraints
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Yao Jen-Chih , Shehu Yekini
Published: June 2022

In a real Hilbert space, let the VIP, GSVI, HVI, and CFPP denote a variational inequality problem, a general system of variational inequalities, a hierarchical variational inequality, and a common fixed-point problem of a countable family of uniformly Lipschitzian pseudocontractive mappings and an asymptotically nonexpansive mapping, respectively. We design two Mann implicit composite subgradient extragradient algorithms with line-search process for finding a common solution of the CFPP, GSVI, and VIP. The suggested algorithms are based on the Mann implicit iteration method, subgradient extragradient method with line-search process, and viscosity approximation method. Under mild assumptions, we prove the strong convergence of the suggested algorithms to a common solution of the CFPP, GSVI, and VIP, which solves a certain HVI defined on their common solutions set.
The 2019 Mw 7.0 Banten, Indonesia, intraslab earthquake: investigation of the coseismic slip, tsunami modelling and Coulomb stress change
Authors: Gunawan Endra , Kongko Widjo , Kholil Munawar , Widyantoro Bayu Triyogo , Widiyantoro Sri , Supendi Pepen , Hanifa Nuraini Rahma , Anjasmara Ira Mutiara , Pratama Cecep , Gusman Aditya Riadi
Published: June 2022

The 2019 Mw 7.0 Banten, Indonesia, earthquake occurred at a 49 km depth in a relatively unknown region, where the geological structure did not clearly show the fault. In this study, we use the Global Navigation Satellite System data to analyse the fault source of the earthquake. Following the earthquake’s focal mechanism, we modelled a total of four fault models using two possible fault strikes, with each of the fault strikes investigated for shallow top depth and deeper top depth. This study also utilises the tide gauge data to confirm the tsunami waveform, modelled using the estimated coseismic slip. We present evidence of the shallow rupture of the 2019 Mw 7.0 Banten, Indonesia, intraslab earthquake from an ENE-WSW fault direction. The tsunami modelling of a shallow top depth of an ENE-WSW fault direction is a better fit in predicting the tide gauge waveform. We also present evidence that the 2019 Banten intraslab earthquake generated very few aftershocks for a magnitude 7-class earthquake. The stress transfer of a shallow rupture ENE- WSW fault model was able to explain the relocated two weeks of aftershocks.
Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by ruptured aneurysm of basilar trunk perforator: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wu Yao , Li Zhaoliang , Yang Dehong , Wu Tao , Chen Ailin , Dai Chungang , Zhu Qing
Published: June 2022

Background

Aneurysm of basilar perforator was rarely reported in the literature. It is difficult to treat due to its small size and deep-seated location. Excessive treatment may cause complications that resulted from ischemic events of parent perforators. Therefore, it is important to make clinical strategy for such patients to improve the prognosis.

Case presentation

One case, who presented as spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage, despite the negative result in computed tomography angiography firstly, was diagnosed angiographically as a ruptured aneurysm of the basilar perforator. A good clinical outcome of the case was achieved during the follow-up after conservative observation for 2 months, as well as the disappearance of previous lesion from angiography.

Conclusions

Aneurysm located at perforator of basilar trunk was rare and difficult to treat. Conservative observation for certain cases with periodic angiography follow-up was considered in order to prevent the patients from potential iatrogenic effects.
A nutraceutical product, extracted from Cannabis sativa, modulates voltage-gated sodium channel function
Authors: Milligan Carol J. , Anderson Lyndsey L. , Bowen Michael T. , Banister Samuel D. , McGregor Iain S. , Arnold Jonathon C. , Petrou Steven
Published: June 2022

Background

Purified cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has gained regulatory approval to treat intractable childhood epilepsies. Despite this, artisanal and commercial CBD-dominant hemp-based products continue to be used by epilepsy patients. Notably, the CBD doses used in these latter products are much lower than that found to be effective in reducing seizures in clinical trials with purified CBD. This might be because these CBD-dominant hemp products contain other bioactive compounds, including phytocannabinoids and terpenes, which may exert unique effects on epilepsy-relevant drug targets. Voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels are vital for initiation of neuronal action potential propagation and genetic mutations in these channels result in epilepsy phenotypes. Recent studies suggest that NaV channels are inhibited by purified CBD. However, the effect of cannabis-based products on the function of NaV channels is unknown.

Methods

Using automated-planar patch-clamp technology, we profile a hemp-derived nutraceutical product (NP) against human NaV1.1–NaV1.8 expressed in mammalian cells to examine effects on the biophysical properties of channel conductance, steady-state fast inactivation and recovery from fast inactivation.

Results

NP modifies peak current amplitude of the NaV1.1–NaV1.7 subtypes and has variable effects on the biophysical properties for all channel subtypes tested. NP potently inhibits NaV channels revealing half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of between 1.6 and 4.2 μg NP/mL. Purified CBD inhibits NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.6 and NaV1.7 to reveal IC50 values in the micromolar range. The CBD content of the product equates to IC50 values (93–245 nM), which are at least an order of magnitude lower than purified CBD. Unlike NP, hemp seed oil vehicle alone did not inhibit NaV channels, suggesting that the inhibitory effects of NP are independent of hemp seed oil.

Conclusions

This CBD-dominant NP potently inhibits NaV channels. Future study of the individual elements of NP, including phytocannabinoids and terpenes, may reveal a potent individual component or that its components interact to modulate NaV channels.
Spotlight on latent tuberculosis infection screening for juvenile idiopathic arthritis in two countries, comparing high and low risk patients
Authors: Piotto Daniela , Nicacio Aline , Neto Agna , Mourão Ana Filipa , Oliveira-Ramos Filipa , Campanilho-Marques Raquel , Guedes Margarida , Cabral Marta , Santos Maria José , Fonseca João Eurico , Canhão Helena , Aikawa Nádia Emi , Oliveira Sheila K. F. , Ferriani Virginia P. L. , Pileggi Gecilmara C. S. , Magalhães Claudia S. , Silva Clovis Artur , Terreri Maria Teresa
Published: June 2022

Background

Rheumatic diseases are associated with an increase in overall risks of tuberculosis (TB). The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of TB and the frequency of latent TB infection (LTBI), in clinical practice, for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients from high and low risk of TB incidence endemic countries.

Methods

This is an international, multicenter, cross-sectional, observational study of data collection from Brazil and Registry of Portugal at REUMA.PT. The inclusion criteria were patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) with age ≤ 18 years who underwent screening for Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection [tuberculin skin test (TST) and/or interferon gamma release assay (IGRA)]. Chest X-rays and history of exposure to TB were also assessed.

Results

292 JIA patients were included; mean age 14.3 years, mean disease duration 7.5 years, 194 patients (66.4%) performed only TST, 14 (4.8%) only IGRA and 84 (28.8%) both. The frequency of LTBI (10.6%) and TB was similar between the two countries. The reasons for TB screening were different; in Brazil it was performed more often at JIA onset while in Portugal it was performed when starting Disease Modified Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARD) treatment (p < 0.001). Isoniazid therapy was prescribed in 40 (13.7%) patients (31 with LTBI and 9 with epidemiologic risks and/or due to contact with sick people). Only three patients (1%) developed active TB.

Conclusion

We found nearly 10% of patients with LTBI, a small percentage of patients with treatment due to epidemiologic risks and only 1% with active TB. Distinct reasons and screening methods for LTBI were observed between the two countries.
Anisotropic three-term amplitude-variation-with-offset projections: A case study
Authors: Asaka Michinori
Published: June 2022

A seismic amplitude-variation-with-offset (AVO) analysis is an important element in seismic reservoir characterization and has been successfully applied in many fields. Traditionally, AVO studies are based on AVO intercept ([Formula: see text]) and gradient ([Formula: see text]) only; curvature ([Formula: see text]) is neglected because it is very sensitive to noise and avoiding noisy [Formula: see text] is very difficult in practice. The recently introduced concept of three-term (3T) AVO projections, combined with continuous improvements in seismic data acquisition and processing, allows interpreters to effectively use [Formula: see text] by optimizing projection angles based not only on rock physics but also on seismic noise. The effectiveness of the 3T AVO projection, in which [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] are used as the triplet of reflectivities that are summed in the projection, and the impact of random noise on the 3T AVO projection have been investigated using data from an offshore Western Australian field. The 3T AVO projection is used in the framework of the extended elastic impedance. Because the study area is known to have nonnegligible differences in anisotropy parameters between the various lithologies, its impact on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is taken into account. First, the 3T projection angle targeting lithology fraction logs is optimized using well-log data. Analyses using synthetic seismograms are then performed to investigate the impact of seismic noise. Finally, the method is applied to field data. The results find that (1) [Formula: see text] is an important component of seismic reservoir characterization even if it appears unusable and (2) seismic noise must be taken into account when optimizing the projection angle.
Searching for bridges between psychopathology and real-world functioning in first-episode psychosis: A network analysis from the OPTiMiSE trial
Authors: Dal Santo Francesco , Fonseca-Pedrero Eduardo , García-Portilla María Paz , González-Blanco Leticia , Sáiz Pilar A. , Galderisi Silvana , Giordano Giulia Maria , Bobes Julio
Published: June 2022

Background

Network analysis has been used to explore the interplay between psychopathology and functioning in psychosis, but no study has used dedicated statistical techniques to focus on the bridge symptoms connecting these domains. The current study aims to estimate the network of depressive, negative, and positive symptoms, general psychopathology, and real-world functioning in people with first-episode schizophrenia or schizophreniform disorder, focusing on bridge nodes.

Methods

Baseline data from the OPTiMiSE trial were analyzed. The sample included 446 participants (age 40.0 ± 10.9 years, 70% males). The network was estimated with a Gaussian graphical model, using scores on individual items of the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS), the Calgary depression scale for schizophrenia, and the personal and social performance scale. Stability, strength centrality, expected influence (EI), predictability, and bridge centrality statistics were computed. The top 20% scoring nodes on bridge strength were selected as bridge nodes.

Results

Nodes from different rating scales assessing similar psychopathological and functioning constructs tended to cluster together in the estimated network. The most central nodes (EI) were Delusions, Emotional Withdrawal, Depression, and Depressed Mood. Bridge nodes included Depression, Conceptual Disorganization, Active Social Avoidance, Delusions, Stereotyped Thinking, Poor Impulse Control, Guilty Feelings, Unusual Thought Content, and Hostility. Most of the bridge nodes belonged to the general psychopathology subscale of the PANSS. Depression (G6) was the bridge node with the highest value.

Conclusions

The current study provides novel insights for understanding the complex phenotype of psychotic disorders and the mechanisms underlying the development and maintenance of comorbidity and functional impairment after psychosis onset.
Next step of invasion: the Asian clam Corbicula fluminea (O. F. Müller, 1774) (Bivalvia: Cyrenidae) colonises smaller sandy rivers in Poland
Authors: Bielański Wojciech
Published: June 2022

This contribution presents a new observation of Corbicula fluminea (O. F. Müller) in Poland, found in 2021 in the Nida River, 40 km north of the nearest known locations. No species of the genus Corbicula has been previously recorded in the Nida, continuously explored for freshwater mussels since 2019. Live specimens were found in 20% of the collected sediment samples. The presence of young clams suggests that the population may be expanding rapidly through active movement or passive downstream drift. The clam was most likely introduced to the Nida by anglers as bait, but other possible pathways (e.g. transfer by kayaks or waterfowl, releases by aquarists) and the species’ impact on invaded ecosystems and native bivalves are discussed.
Developing and deploying an efficient genotyping workflow for accelerating maize improvement in developing countries
Authors: Offornedo Queen , Menkir Abebe , Babalola Deborah , Gedil Melaku
Published: June 2022

Background: Molecular breeding is an essential tool for accelerating genetic gain in crop improvement, towards meeting the need to feed an ever-growing world population. Establishing low-cost, flexible genotyping platforms in small, public and regional laboratories can stimulate the application of molecular breeding in developing countries. These laboratories can serve plant breeding projects requiring low- to medium-density markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) and quality control (QC) activities.

Methods: We performed two QC and MAS experiments consisting of 637 maize lines, using an optimised genotyping workflow involving an in-house competitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) genotyping system with an optimised sample collection, preparation, and DNA extraction and quantitation process. A smaller volume of leaf-disc size plant samples was collected directly in 96-well plates for DNA extraction, using a slightly modified CTAB-based DArT DNA extraction protocol. DNA quality and quantity analyses were performed using a microplate reader, and the KASP genotyping and data analysis was performed in our laboratory.

Results: Applying the optimized genotyping workflow expedited the QC and MAS experiments from over five weeks (when outsourcing) to two weeks and eliminated the shipping cost. Using a set of 28 KASP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) validated for maize, the QC experiment revealed the genetic identity of four maize varieties taken from five seed sources. Another set of 10 KASP SNPs was sufficient in verifying the parentage of 390 F1 lines. The KASP-based MAS was successfully applied to a maize pro-vitamin A (PVA) breeding program and for introgressing the aflatoxin resistance gene into elite tropical maize lines.

Conclusion: This improved workflow has helped accelerate maize improvement activities of IITA's Maize Improvement Program and facilitated DNA fingerprinting for tracking improved crop varieties. National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) in developing countries can adopt this workflow to fast-track molecular marker-based genotyping for crop improvement.
Validation of a lithium-ion commercial battery pack model using experimental data for stationary energy management application
Authors: Foles Ana , Fialho Luís , Horta Pedro , Collares-Pereira Manuel
Published: June 2022

Background: A cost-effective solution for the design of distributed energy storage systems implies the development of battery performance models yielding a suitable representation of its dynamic behaviour under realistic operation conditions.

Methods: In this work, a lithium-ion battery (LIB) is tested to be further modelled and integrated into an existing energy management control system. This specific LIB (5.0 kW /9.8 kWh) is integrated with a commercial inverter and solar photovoltaic (PV) system (3.3 kWp) as part of a microgrid that is also encompassing other energy storage technologies at the University of Évora, Pole of INIESC – National Research Infrastructure for Solar Energy Concentration. A testing protocol fully characterizes the battery and the inverter efficiency to describe their performance better. Then, a battery model is built upon both the existent LIB description and experimental fitting regression. The model allows obtaining the voltage curve, the internal resistance (i.e., to describe instantaneous voltage drop/rise and transients), and the state of charge (SOC) and/or energy capacity based on the current input. The developed model is validated through the comparison with the experimental results.

Results: The model approach presented a higher voltage RMSE (root mean square error) of 5.51 V and an MRE (maximum relative error) of 5.68 % in the discharge state. Regarding SOC, the MRE obtained was approximately 6.82 %. In the charge state, the highest RMSE voltage was 5.27 V, with an MRE of 6.74 %. Concerning SOC, the MRE obtained was approximately 6.53 %. 

Conclusions: The developed model is validated through the comparison with experimental results. Based on computational effort, simplicity of use and the associated model error, the approach is validated to the regular conditions of the commercial battery pack to be incorporated in the next research step, following a bottom-up modelling approach for an increasingly more complex smart grid.
Case Report: The effect of intravenous and oral antibiotics on the gut microbiome and breath volatile organic compounds over one year
Authors: Shahi Farah , Forrester Sarah , Redeker Kelly , Chong James P.J. , Barlow Gavin
Published: June 2022

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern and better understanding of the gut microbiome, a known ‘amplifier’ of AMR, may allow future clinicians to tailor therapy to minimise this risk and offer a personalised medicine approach. To examine the gut microbiome, patients are required to provide faecal samples; more convenient and cheaper solutions need to be found.

Methods: As part of a pilot study looking at how routes of administration affect the gut microbiome in NHS patients undergoing routine clinical management for infections, we hypothesised that effects on the gut microbiome varied with the route and metabolism of antibiotic used, and these changes may be reflected in breath metabolites. We present a case report of a patient with an unusual clinical history, alongside breath metabolite and gut microbiome data taken before, during and after antibiotic therapy over a period of one year.

Results: We noted a shift in the dominantBacteroidesstrain in the patient’s gut microbiome between pre- and post-therapy samples, along with an alteration in the composition of breath metabolites.

Conclusions: This study provides a framework for similar future work and highlights the need for further research on the relationships between changes in microbial gut communities and antimicrobial exposure, patient clinical status, and the metabolites of human breath.
Frontier: Eating the Metaphorical Elephant: Meeting Nitrogen Reduction Goals in Upper Mississippi River Basin States
Authors: Feyereisen Gary W. , Hay Christopher H. , Christianson Reid D. , Helmers Matthew J.
Published: June 2022

Highlights

Meeting nutrient reduction goals will be a massive effort with many challenges.

No one practice or group of practices will meet the goals; a mix of multiple practices is needed.

Edge-of-field practices become increasingly important as implementation level increases.

Understanding the scale of the challenge is a necessary step toward meeting the challenge.

Keywords: Gulf of Mexico, Hypoxia, Nitrate, Nutrient reduction, Subsurface tile drainage.