bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Comparison of Imputation Methods Using Machine Learning Techniques for Ordinal Missing Data
Authors: Son Serhim , An Hyonggin
Published: September 2022

Objectives: When missing values occur, complete case analysis can cause biased results. In this paper, we discuss imputation methods using machine learning techniques when missing values occurred in ordinal variables. Methods: We consider two machine learning techniques, the ordinal decision tree and the random forest, for the imputation of missing values. We use the ordinal decision tree treating variables as ordinal, and the random forest as nominal. In addition, we apply the cumulative logistic model. The results are compared with complete case analysis using empirical bias, empirical mean squared error and accuracy. The same methods are applied using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Results: In the case of five ordinal categories, machine learning techniques yield better performance than the cumulative logistic and complete case. The ordinal decision shows lower bias while random forest shows higher accuracy. In the case of 3 categories, random forest produces better performance in all respects. In the case study, biased results are also identified if we use complete case analysis. Random forest shows the best performance, and the parametric method shows similar performance to the ordinal decision tree. Conclusions: Missing imputation using machine learning techniques can reduce bias and improve performance. If possible, it is recommended to use the ordinal decision tree to impute missing values that reflects the meaning of order. If it is not possible, it is recommended to treat them at least as nominal variables and then impute.
Association between Second-hand Smoke and Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Korean Adolescents: Based on the 17th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Authors: Shin Hyo-Min , Lee Sang-Jun , Ko Woo-Rim , Jeong Jae-Yeon , Koh Sang-Baek , Do Kyung-Yi
Published: September 2022

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between secondhand smoke exposure at home, school, and public places and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) among Korean adolescents, and to determine whether the risk of GAD increases as the frequency of exposure to secondhand smoke increases. Methods: This cross-sectional study is based on the 17th Korean Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2021), Out of the 54,848 students who participated in the survey, 5,975 current smokers were excluded, leaving the final analysis subject as 48,873 non-smokers. Rao-Scott chi-square analysis was done to examine the difference between general characteristics depending on the GAD levels of the subject and to investigate the association between second-hand smoke exposure and GAD. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the effect of exposure to secondhand smoke in adolescents on GAD. Results: With all the confounding factors adjusted (Model IV), the risk of high GAD when exposed to secondhand smoke at home was 1.08 times higher for 1-3 days compared to “none” and 1.17 times higher when exposed to more than 4 days. In public places, the risk increased by 1.10 times and 1.49 times, when exposure was 1-3 days and more than 4 days respectively. At school, the risk increased by 1.34 times when exposed to 1-3 days, and 1.40 times when exposed to more than 4 days. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, public awareness of secondhand smoke should be improved, health policies should be developed to prevent exposure to secondhand smoke among adolescents.
The Related Factors of Adherence to Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Dental Clinics during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Epidemic
Authors: Joo Sooyeon , Shin Hyeongho , Park Sangshin
Published: September 2022

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the related factors of adherence to infection prevention and control practices (IPCPs) in dental clinics during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic. Methods: We surveyed 137 dental hygienists working in dental clinics in November 2021. We considered demographic characteristics, workplace characteristics, COVID-19 experiences, and motivation to IPCPs as independent variables. We performed multivariable regression modeling for adherence to IPCPs using the stepwise-selection method. Results: Dental hygienists properly adhered to recommended IPCPs if they were 30 years old or above (B = 0.31, p = 0.014), if their clinic employed infection control practitioners (B = 0.79, p = 0.001), and if they gained a will to adhere IPCPs after treating patients who were very conscious about hygiene (B = 0.26, p = 0.020). The interaction between dental hygienists’ age and the employment status of infection control practitioners was significant (p = 0.047). Conclusions: During the COVID-19 epidemic, dental hygienists’ age, the employment status of infection control practitioners in clinics, and their motivation to adhere IPCPs after treating patients who were very conscious about hygiene were significantly associated with their adherence to recommended IPCPs.
Factors Controlling the Flow and Connectivity in Fracture Networks in Naturally Fractured Geothermal Formations
Authors: Cao Meng , Sharma Mukul M.
Published: September 2022

The productivity and injectivity of hydraulically fractured geothermal wells in naturally fractured formations depend on the connectivity of fracture networks created by the interaction of hydraulic fractures with natural fractures. The primary objectives of this paper are (a) to define quantitatively the connectivity of the created fracture network, (b) to determine the factors that control the connectivity of fracture networks bounded by wells, and (c) to propose ways in which the flow capacity and fracture connectivity can be improved by changes to the hydraulic fracture design.

A fully 3D hydraulic fracturing simulator has been developed that considers the interaction of hydraulic fractures with natural fractures by solving for the stresses, fluid flow, heat transfer, fracture growth, and intersection. These propagated fractures, which include hydraulic fractures and reactivated natural fractures, are divided into backbone, dead-end, and isolated fractures. Different well patterns that aim to optimize the connectivity of the injector to the producer (optimize the area of the backbone fractures) are simulated. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to investigate the effect of various parameters on the connectivity of wells through fractures. An optimal well pattern is needed to maximize the connected fracture area that provides a conductive path for heat extraction from naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs. Our results show that the connectivity of fracture networks is dramatically impacted by the degree of deflection, crossing, and merging of hydraulic fractures with natural fractures. An example is used to investigate the effect of backbone and dead-end fractures on heat extraction from an enhanced geothermal system (EGS).

The detailed parametric study helps us better understand the factors that influence the geometry and connectivity of fracture networks and guide us in hydraulic fracture design and well spacing optimization in naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs.
Inverse DEA-R models for generalized restructuring analysis
Authors: Ghobadi Saeid , Zanboori Ehsan , Soleimani-Chamkhorami Khosro
Published: September 2022

A generalized restructuring refers to an action in a commercial environment in which a homogeneous set of units is restructured to create a new set of units in the same environment to achieve specific performance goals. Inverse data envelopment analysis (InvDEA) is a useful analytical tool based on multiple-objective mathematical programming to estimate the required levels of input/output to achieve given efficiency targets. This paper is devoted to develop a new InvDEA based methodology with the data in ratio form, called InvDEA-R, for modeling the generalized restructuring. The most important advantages of the proposed models are: i) Maintaining the confidentiality of data, which can strengthen the motivation of managers to participate in the process of improving efficiency through reconstruction; ii) In addition to using pure input and output data, it considers a combination of their ratios in the reconstruction process. This not only increases the more appropriate reconstruction analysis’s discrimination power, but also provides a reasonable endogenous weight restriction framework for using the expert view in the generalized units restructuring process. This paper also presents a DEA-R estimator model to determine the minimum efficiency aims that post-restructuring units can gain. The developed restructure theory is examined via a banking sector application.
Trends of Tourette Syndrome in children From 2011 to 2021: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Yang Cuiling , Zhang Jie , Zhao Qiong , Zhang Jingjin , Zhou Jiang , Wang Li
Published: September 2022

Background
Tourette Syndrome (TS) has attracted the attention of researchers worldwide. However, no bibliometric analysis of the published publications is available. This study aims to examine the present research state of TS in children by CiteSpace, as well as to identify current research hotspots and frontiers.
Methods
We chose publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database for studies related to TS in children from 2011 to 2021. We built online cooperation maps of countries, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords by CiteSpace, and identified hotspots and frontiers of study for children's TS.
Results
A total of 1232 publications about TS in children were downloaded from the WoSCC. The USA (414) was the country with the highest rate of production, and University College London (87) was the institution that had the highest publication rate. Andrea Eugenio Cavanna was the most prolific author (39 papers). There was inactive cooperation between institutions, countries, and authors. The Journal of European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry was the most active journal. Hot topics focused on epidemiology, comorbidity, deep brain stimulation, behavioral therapy, pharmacological treatment, and risk factors of TS in children.
Conclusions
According to the CiteSpace results, this study found that authors, countries, and institutions were not actively working together. Current research hotspots mainly consist of epidemiology, comorbidity, deep brain stimulation, and behavioral therapy. The main research trends include comorbidity, pharmacological treatment, and risk factors. Therefore, international cooperation should be strengthened in the future, and it should be mindful of the psychiatric comorbidities of TS, the choice of intervention measures, and early warning of risk factors.
Sexual and Gender-Based Violence victims’ satisfaction of the support services through the holistic model of care in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mugisho Gilbert M. , Maroyi Raha , Nabami Solange , Kasherwa Amani C. , Bitenga Ali , Mukwege Denis
Published: September 2022

Background The quality-of-care assessment is an important indicator of the efficiency of a healthcare system. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), despite the implementation of the holistic care model for the treatment of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) victims, little is known about the client’s perception of this model and its outcome. This study aimed to examine the expected and perceived satisfaction of service recipients through the One-Stop-Center model of health care in eastern DRC.
Methodology This descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Panzi Hospital (PH), in eastern DRC. Data were collected by a mixed-methods approach, 64 Victims of Sexual Violence (VSVs) participated in individual (in-depth) interviews and 150 completed the Survey.
Results The findings from our qualitative analysis demonstrated that the VSVs admitted at PH had various expectations and needs on arrival depending on their social identity and residence locations. For instance, the VSVs coming from remote areas with ongoing armed conflicts mentioned concerns related to their security in the post-treatment period and the risks of re-victimization that this could incur. Conversely, those who came from the urban neighborhood, with relative security raised various concerns related to their legal reparation and ongoing access to other support services. Based on their origins, the result from the quantitative analysis demonstrated the overall satisfaction of the client with the support services, 86% (p<10%) mentioned their satisfaction with the home visiting or follow-up of the support workers during and after the treatment and 88% (p<10%) of respondents mentioned the social support received both at the hospital and in their communities. In relation to the holistic care model, 89 % (p<5%) of clients mentioned that the healthcare services they received from the PH exceeded their expectations and wished that PH could continue supporting them mentally and financially for an effective reintegration into their communities.
Conclusions Results of this study suggest that victims’ satisfaction with support services is based on either the organizational frameworks of clinical or support services within the hospital and the victims’ social environment.
Assessment of cervical length in pregnant women with extreme ages
Authors: DOMICIANO Carolina B. , LIPPI Umberto G.
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: In recent years, besides affecting the baby and its relatives, prematurity has led to high costs for public health. In this sense, in order to invest in prevention policies, the literature indicates the need to investigate the relationship between cervical length and premature delivery in the first gestational trimester through transvaginal ultrasound.
Objectives: The objective was to verify whether the measurement of the cervix influenced the prematurity of the delivery of pregnant women categorized in extreme ages (20 - 34 years old and 35 - 50 years old). Another objective was to verify whether the uterine cervix measurement differs between the groups.
Study Design: This is a field study, descriptive and exploratory, quantitative and non-probabilistic in nature.
Results: Uterine cervix measurement did not statistically influence prematurity < 34 weeks in pregnant women aged between 20 and 34 years old (p = 0.781). None of the maternal characteristics statistically influenced prematurity, < 34 weeks, in pregnant women aged between 35 and 50 years old (p > 0.05). The chance of prematurity, < 37 weeks, among pregnant women aged between 20 and 34 years old (p> 0.05) decreased by 5% to every millimeter more of cervical measurement regardless of other maternal characteristics. Among pregnant women aged between 35 and 50 years old, the chance of prematurity < 37 weeks increased by 7% (p = 0.018) and to every millimeter of cervical measurement, the chance of prematurity decreased by 8% (p = 0.014) regardless of other maternal characteristics.
Conclusions: It is concluded that cervical length in the first trimester is not a predictor of prematurity. Therefore, there is no need to invest clinical or technological efforts to investigate possible prematurity by the cervical length in the first gestational trimester.
Keywords: Obstetrics. Early Diagnosis. Ultrasonography. Cervical length measurement. Cervix Uteri. Pregnancy. Fetal Medicine. Prenatal Care. Obstetric labor. Premature Birth
Prediction Of Aβ State From Brain Amyloid PET Images Using Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Simfukwe Chanda , Lee Reeree , Youn Young Chul
Published: September 2022

Background: Analyzing brain amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) images to access the occurrence of β-Amyloid (Aβ) deposition in Alzheimer’s patients requires a lot of time and effort from physicians, and also the variation of each interpreter may differ. For this reason, a machine learning model was developed using a convolutional neural network (CNN) as an objective decision to predict the Aβ positive and Aβ negative status from brain amyloid PET images.
Method: A total number of 7,344 PET images of 144 subjects were used in this study. The 18F-florbetaben (18F-FBB) PET was administered on all participants, and the criteria for differentiating Aβ positive and Aβ negative state was based on brain amyloid plaque load score (BAPL) that depended on the visual assessment of PET images by the physicians. We applied the CNN algorithm trained in batches of 51 PET images per subject directory from two classes: Aβ positive and Aβ negative states based on the BAPL scores.
Results: The binary prediction of the model average performance matrices was evaluated after 40 epochs of five trials based on test datasets. The model accuracy for predicting Aβ positivity and Aβ negativity was 82.00±0.02 in the test dataset. The sensitivity and specificity were 97.00±0.02 and 97.00±0.02 with an area under the curve (AUC) of 90.00±0.03.
Conclusion: Based on this study, the designed CNN model has the potential to be used clinically for screening amyloid PET images.
Downregulation of FABP5 suppresses mTOR -mediated autophagy via an increase in FASN to promote colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Ye Mujie , Chen Tiaotiao , Hu Chunhua , Bai Jianan , Zhong Yuan , Yan Lijun , Kan Jingbao , Chen Jinghao , Lu Feiyu , Li Xiaolin , Tian Ye , Tang Qiyun
Published: September 2022

Background
Lipid metabolism plays an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer, in particular, digestive system tumors such as colon cancer. Here, we investigated the role of the fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5) in colorectal cancer(CRC).
Methods
To this end, tissue microarray was initially used for analysis of FABP5 expression, followed by generation of stable cell lines with knockdown or overexpression of FABP5 for a series of functional assays including CCK-8, colony formation, EdU and transwell experiments. Co-IP, RNA-seq and omics-based lipid metabolism studies were further performed to explore the mechanisms of action of FABP5 in CRC. The function of FABP5 in vivo was analyzed with the aid of tumor xenograft and immunohistochemistry experiments.
Results
We observed marked downregulation of FABP5 in CRC. Data from functional assays revealed inhibitory effects of FABP5 on cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion as well as tumor growth in vivo. In terms of mechanistic insights, FABP5 interacted with fatty acid synthase (FASN) and activated the ubiquitin proteasome pathway, leading to a decrease in FASN expression and lipid accumulation, in turn, suppressing mTOR signaling and facilitating cell autophagy. Orlistat, a FASN inhibitor, exerted anti-cancer effects both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the upstream RNA demethylase ALKBH5 positively regulated FABP5 expression via an m6A-independent mechanism.
Conclusion
Our collective findings offer valuable insights into the critical role of the FABP5/FASN axis in tumor progression and uncover a potential mechanism linking lipid metabolism to development of CRC, providing novel therapeutic targets for future interventions.
Comparison of dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone as adjuvants to a single shot interscalene nerve block in arthroscopic shoulder surgery: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Zheng , Lv Lian-chao , Wu Guang-han , Wei Xiu-min , Shi Peng-cai
Published: September 2022

Study objective: The objectives of this network meta-analysis were to determine the relative efficacy of dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine as an adjunct to prolong analgesic duration for a single shot ISB.
Design: A network meta-analysis was performed for all direct and indirect comparisons based on the Bayesian framework to select the best modality, including five interventions and 24 RCTs.
Setting: Operating rooms and wards.
Patients: Twenty-four randomized controlled trials involving 2,164 patients (ASA I-III) were included in the final analysis.
Interventions: Studies were summarized into six groups, a low-dose intravenous dexamethasone (4mg), a high-dose intravenous dexamethasone (8mg), perineural dexamethasone, dexmedetomidine, combined intravenous dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine, control group (CG) undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
Measurements: The primary outcome was duration of analgesia; the secondary outcomes were pain scores and opioid consumption.
Main results: Twenty-four 24 studies enrolling a total of 2,164 patients reported duration of analgesia. Combined DEX-DEA (MD = 18.48, 95% CI 13.14, 23.69), DEX-PN (MD = 9.75, 95% CI 7.51, 12.01), High dose-DEX-IV (MD = 7.39 95% CI 4.39, 10.38), Low dose-DEX-IV (MD = 7.15, 95% CI 3.44, 10.80), DEA-PN (MD = 6.51, 95% CI 3.57, 9.42), provided significantly longer analgesic effects compared to the CG group.
Conclusions: For prolonging duration of analgesia and reducing postoperative opioid consumption and pain scores, combination of dexamethasoneand dexmedetomidine had the best analgesic effects, peripheral dexamethasone was superior to other adjuvants administered alone. All therapies showed significant effects in prolonging the analgesic duration of a single shot interscalene nerve block in shoulder arthroscopic surgery when compared to placebo.
Depression and anxiety symptoms in older adults: a joint association study of candidate genes
Authors: de Moraes Isabela Ferreira , Chile Thais , de Paula Vanessa de Jesus Rodrigues , Alexandrino-Silva Clóvis , Busatto Gerado , Brentani Helena , Vallada Homero
Published: September 2022

Introduction: As the share of elderly in the
population is increasing, so is the presence of depression and
anxiety in this group, including in Brazil. There are studies
suggesting common pathophysiological mechanisms for depressive and
anxiety disorders, as well as the existence of vulnerability genes
in the etiopathogenesis of both depression and anxiety. The
different candidate genes reported in the literature associated
with depression and/or anxiety phenotypes have rarely been
investigated together in a single
study.

Objective: To investigate candidate gene
polymorphisms, reported as associated with a higher risk of
developing depression and/or anxiety symptoms in the literature, in
an elderly population.

Methodology: Peripheral venous blood was
collected from a total of 874 elderly people aged 60 years or
older. Genotypic DNA analysis was performed by real-time PCR of 27
polymorphisms of 11 candidate genes for symptoms of depression
and/or anxiety. Depressive and/or Anxious Symptomatology Groups
(DASG) were also included in the analysis based on the median of
three applied scales: the CES-D for depression, the GAI for
anxiety, and the MMSE for cognition. For statistical analysis,
Pearson's chi-square test was performed with a significance level
of 5% (p= ≤ 0.05), both for individual analysis of polymorphisms
and for the joint analysis.

Results: Four polymorphisms showed
statistically significant results associated with DASG: rs8071667
(p=0.03) of the 5HTT gene, rs6265 (p=0.004) of the BDNF gene,
rs165599 (p=0.023) of the COMT gene, and rs1417938 (p= 0.006) of
the CRP gene. The rs165599 (COMT) and rs1417938 (CRP) variants
remained significant when analyzed together, with a p-value of
1.72E-10.

Conclusion: The COMT gene variant rs165599 and
CRP gene variant rs1417938 provided the most robust results in our
analysis. However, it is necessary to confirm the reproduction of
these preliminary results in independent samples.
Interleukin-17A released from intestinal γδT cells induces cytokine storm in mice with severe dengue
Authors: Kurosu Takeshi , Okuzaki Daisuke , Sakai Yusuke , Kadi Mohamad Al , Phanthanawiboon Supranee , Ami Yasusi , Shimojima Masayuki , Yoshikawa Tomoki , Fukushi Shuetsu , Nagata Noriyo , Suzuki Tadaki , Kamimura Daisuke , Murakami Masaaki , Ebihara Hideki , Saijo Masayuki
Published: September 2022

Blockade of TNF-α signaling protects mice from lethal infection with dengue virus (DENV); however, what causes cytokine storm or how TNF-α aggravates the disease remains unknown. Here, we performed transcriptome analysis of the liver and small intestine samples collected chronologically from DENV-3 P12/08-infected IFN-α/β and γ receptor knockout (IFN-α/β/γRKO) mice in the presence/absence of blockade of TNF-α Ab signaling. We found that TNF-α induced production of IL-17A by small intestinal γδT cells, regulated production of other cytokines such as IL-6 cooperatively with TNF-α, and played a crucial role in mortality. Also, neutrophil-derived matrix metalloprotease-8 was identified as an effector molecule causing vascular leakage. Blockade of TNF-α or IL-17A signaling strongly inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 in stroma-like cells and epithelial cells, and prevented induction of IL-6. These findings enable us to better understand cytokine storm associated with severe dengue, and may facilitate development of new therapeutic strategies.
Numeric and Morphological Studies of the African Lion (Panthera leo) Pectoral limb
Authors: Onwuama Kenechukwu Tobechukwu , Kigir Esther Solomon , Jaji Alhaji Zubair , Salami Suleiman Olawoye
Published: September 2022

Background: The Importance of the appendicular skeleton in the conformation, shape and physiology of wild animals especially carnivores for adaptation and survival cannot be overemphasized as limited and obsolete information on the bones of the forelimb necessitated this study. Matured adult African lions (Male and female) that weighed 173kg and 112kg were obtained at different times after post mortem examinations of their carcasses. Bone preparation was achieved via cold water maceration after proper skin and muscle removal to a barest minimum.
Results: The acromion process of the scapula consisted of a ventral hamate and caudal suprahamatus processes. The musculospiral groove of the humerus was more or less absent while its supracondyloid foramen and crest were positioned above the medial condyle and lateral condyle respectively. The radio-ulna presented a twisted appearance with the radius slightly curved thereby creating an extensive interosseous space that spanned its entire length. The seven (7) carpal bones were uniquely arranged in two rows while the 5 metacarpals anchored 5 digits with 3 phalanges except the first with 2 phalanges each. The 3rd phalanx had a unique appearance with a crescent plate projecting from the ventral cavity.The average total number of bones constituting the pectoral limb was 75.
Conclusion: Numerical information and detailed anatomical features of the pectoral limb bones of the African lion (Panthera leo) have added some valuable literature to science. This further serves as a baseline data for future scientific exposition on this species.
Setting the Stage for Success: Evaluating Both Partner and Patient Satisfaction with Post-Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Cimaroli Sawyer , Bichanich Miles , Adamson Karri , LoGiudice John , Doren Erin
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Few studies have looked in-depth at the relationship between patient and partner satisfaction with post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. The studies that do exist suggest that perceived partner satisfaction is an important predictor of patient satisfaction in post-mastectomy breast reconstruction.
Methods: We created a novel survey designed to look at reconstruction outcomes from a partner’s perspective. Patients with a history of mastectomy-alone or mastectomy with reconstruction at our institution from January 2011 through December 2020 were contacted electronically to complete a demographic form and the BREAST-Q©, while partners completed our novel partner survey. Sixteen mastectomy-only and 76 mastectomy with reconstruction couples completed surveys.
Results: The mean Breast-Q© and partner survey scores were 87 and 87 (maximum possible=100) respectively for mastectomy with reconstruction. There was a correlation of 0.57 between patient and partner overall satisfaction. There was no difference in overall satisfaction between patients who underwent reconstruction and those who did not p=0.19. There was a relationship between satisfaction with pre-operative counseling and overall satisfaction in both patients and partners. The partner survey was found to have high internal consistency for measuring various areas of partner satisfaction.
Conclusions: There is a relationship between patient and partner satisfaction with post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. Our data may support the positive impact of social support on recovery after breast cancer treatment, as satisfaction was high in both groups. We therefore encourage partners to attend and participate in pre-operative consultations. Finally, our novel partner survey is a reliable tool to assess partner satisfaction with post-mastectomy breast reconstruction.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Agricultural Carbon Emissions: Empirical Evidence from 31 Chinese Provinces
Authors: Tan Haixia , Zheng Xixian
Published: September 2022

A crucial part of China’s overall carbon emission reduction plan is the reduction of agricultural carbon emissions. Thus, it is important to identify the factors influencing agricultural carbon emissions in each province and explore the key to effectively reducing these emissions. Based on data from 31 provinces in China from 2007 to 2020, we analyzed the spatial and temporal trends in the evolution of agricultural carbon emissions in each province and determined the spatial autocorrelation of provincial carbon emissions. We further used the geographically and temporally weighted regression model to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution of the driving factors of provincial agricultural carbon emissions. The results showed that agricultural carbon emissions were spatially autocorrelated among provinces. The final results indicated that different provinces could achieve agricultural carbon emission reduction by adopting different strategies most suitable to their situations, such as by using green fertilizers, and adopting sustainability-oriented agricultural technology.
Gastrodin ameliorated features of MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease via activating VMAT2 maintained dopamine homeostasis
Authors: Zhao Meihuan , Xia Peng , Wang Jie , Li Ping , Ma Tengyun , Liu Panwang , Chen Qi , Xu Shijun
Published: September 2022

The vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2) plays a crucial role in maintaining dopamine (DA) homeostasis through packaged DA into vesicles, which has been suggested to being an excellent marker for presynaptic dopaminergic nerve terminals in the nigrostriatal of Parkinson's disease. Gastrodin (GTD), the major bioactive compound of Gastrodia elata, has shown neuroprotective in animal models for many neurological disorders. However, it is unclear whether GTD confers neuroprotection via activating VMAT2 to maintain DA homeostasis in an animal model of Parkinson's disease (PD) using the DA neuron-specific toxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Here, we first identified that GTD could ameliorate cell damage and the dysfunction of DA homeostasis in PC12 cells induced by MPTP via up-regulating VMAT2 expression. Moreover, GTD could enhance VMAT2 protein expression, increase striatal vesicle volume, and ameliorate DA dysregulation in MPTP-induced PD mice. Furthermore, we found that the DA homeostasis and therapeutic effect of GTD could be reversed by the VMAT2 inhibitor in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we confirmed that GTD could increase VMAT2 expression by activating MEK/ERK pathway. In summary, our data showed that GTD attenuated MPTP neurotoxicity through activating of the MEK/ERK/VMAT2 signaling pathway maintained DA homeostasis, suggesting that the manipulation of VMAT2 by GTD may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for PD.
Health Related Quality of Life and Associated Factors Among Patients With Urinary Bladder Cancer at Mulago National Referral Hospital- a Cross Sectional Study
Authors: IBINGIRA TREASURE J , ABRAHAMS OMODING , DAN NAMUGUZI
Published: September 2022

Background: Health related quality of life in patients with urinary bladder cancer is important to measure outcomes beyond morbidity and biological functioning. In 2020, Bladder cancer (BC) contributed to 3% of all cancer worldwide. Globocan 2018 estimated the prevalence of BC in Uganda at 0.8% with a mortality of 75.9%. BC affects the overall quality of life among patients with several factors influencing this outcome.
Our aim was to determine the overall health related quality of life and associated factors among patients with BC in our setting in MNRH in Uganda.
Methods: A sample of 111 patients, with histological diagnosis of BC, attending urology clinic or admitted to the urology ward in MNRH were recruited consecutively over a 4-month period. Data was collected by administering the EORTC -QLQ C-30 questionnaire which is a standard interviewer-administered, internationally accepted tool that is validated in Uganda in addition to an associated factors questionnaire. This tool assessed five domains, with symptoms scale and overall QOL. The mean and standard deviation of the overall quality of life were obtained to determine the mean HRQOL. Using simple linear regression, the factors associated with the mean HRQOL were assessed.
Results A total of 111 participants were analyzed and their mean age was 56.6 (SD± 17.3). Most were males 73 (65.8%) and most had attained a primary level of education 55 (49.5%). Most had no comorbidities 65 (58.6%). The mean HRQOL among patients with BC in MNRH was found to be 36.2%(±13.5). The mean duration with symptoms was 13.5 months (SD± 15.3)
Conclusion. Patients with bladder cancer in MNRH face a unique burden with their diagnosis and have been found to have a very low HRQOL which is significantly associated with increasing age and reduced duration of symptoms. This calls for timely interventions with holistic management and lifelong follow up of these patients.
High Dose of Metformin Decreases Susceptibility to Occlusive Arterial Thrombosis Uniquely in Type-2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Alvidrez Roberto Mota , Annarapu Gowtham , Sriniva Amudan , Liu Zeyu , Yazdani Hamza , Nolfi-Donegan Deidre , Simmons Richard , Shiva Sruti , Neal Matthew
Published: September 2022

Introduction
Metformin is the most prescribed medication in Type 2 Diabetes(T2D). Metformin has shown to decrease mean platelet volume, with promising antiplatelet effects. High doses of Metformin have also been associated with hypercoagulation. We hypothesize that Metformin will protect T2D mice from occlusive arterial thrombus formation by altering platelet activation and mitochondrial bioenergetics.
Methods
T2D was developed by low dose of Streptozotocin, non-T2D (healthy) mice are controls. Either vehicle or Metformin was administered twice daily via oral gavage for 7-days. Ferric chloride (FeCl3) arterial thrombosis and tail bleeding time were performed. Whole blood aggregometry, platelet activation/adhesion and mitochondrial bioenergetics were evaluated.
Results
Metformin decreased susceptibility of T2D mice to arterial thrombosis. Platelet bioenergetics show T2D mice have increased platelet mitochondrial respiration, but no differences were observed with Metformin treatment. Metformin modulated ADP-dependent expression of markers of platelet activation/adhesion. Metformin in non-T2D mice shortens bleeding time and increased susceptibility to thrombotic occlusion. Metformin increased platelet mitochondrial maximal respiration and spare respiratory capacity uniquely in non-T2D mice.
Conclusion
Metformin regulates platelet bioenergetics and ADP-mediated platelet function in T2D mice which attenuates susceptibility to arterial thrombosis. Future studies will evaluate clinically relevant doses of Metformin that regulates thrombotic function in diabetic platelets.
Delay Reduction in MTC Using SDN Based Offloading in Fog Computing
Authors: Arefian Zahra , Khayyambashi Mohammad Reza , Movahhedinia Naser
Published: September 2022

Fog computing (FC) brings a Cloud close to the users, and improves the quality of service and delay services. In this article, the converged FC and Software-Defined-Networking (SDN) have been proposed to implement complicated mechanisms of resource management. SDN has suited the practical standard for FC systems. The priority and differential flow space allocation has been applied to arrange this framework for the heterogeneous request Machine-Type-Communications. The delay-sensitive flows are assigned to a configuration of priority queues on each Fog. Due to limited resources in the Fog, a promising solution is offloading flows to other Fogs a decision-based SDN controller. The flow-based Fog nodes have been modeled according to the queueing theory, where polling priority algorithms have been applied to service the flows and to reduce the starvation problem in a multi-queueing model. It is observed that the proposed mechanism notably reduces the computation and transmission delay and the count of the drops.
Actuator Fault Detection, Identification, and Control of a Multirotor Using Residual Generation and Parameter Estimation Approaches
Authors: asadi Davood
Published: September 2022

Effective fault detection and identification (FDI) and fault-tolerant control for nonlinear, unstable, and underactuated systems like quad-rotor is a challenging and critical process. This paper introduces a novel two-stage structure of an FDI approach integrated with an adaptive sliding mode controller for fault-tolerant control of a quadrotor with partial actuator fault. The FDI algorithm applies the parity space concept to generate a residual signal based on the system’s states and the inputs. The residual signal is examined by the exponential forgetting factor recursive least square method to detect and identify the partial fault of the actuator. The cascade controller includes an adaptive SMC algorithm in the inner loop and a PID controller in the outer loop. Real-time testbed experiments and Monte-Carlo simulation are applied in different actuator fault scenarios to determine the FDI algorithm’s performance metrics and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the fault-tolerant control strategy in maintaining full controllability of the quadrotor in presence of partial actuator fault.
Predictors of Preterm Neonatal Mortality in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Southern Ethiopia: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Feleke Tihun , Kaweti Gudeta
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND: The issue of preterm neonates has paramount significance for achieving aims to end all preventable deaths of newborns and children below 5 years by 2030. Globally more than 1 million preterm neonates died out of 15 million babies born preterm every year and the problem is more significant in developing countries like Ethiopia.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess survival status and predictors of mortality among preterm neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia, 2021
METHODS: An Institutional based retrospective cohort study was conducted in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from May 9–30, 2021 after getting ethical clearance from the Institutional Review Board of Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences. The study population was all preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH) from May 9, 2019, to April 22, 2021. After reviewing different literature and neonatal national guideline, the data abstraction tool was developed and utilized after making some modifications. After collection, data were entered into epi data software version 3.1 and exported to STATA for data cleaning and further analysis. The level of significance was set at p<0.05 with the corresponding confidence intervals at 95% confidence. The Cox proportional hazard ratio was used to assess the association between dependent and independent variables.
RESULTS: The magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality was 33.3%. The final model revealed that early initiation of breast milk (AHR: 0.43 (95% CI: 0.29, 0.62), Early neonatal sepsis at admission (AHR: 1.34(95% CI: 1.003, 1.79), 5th minute Apgar score of less than 7 (AHR: 1.73(95% CI: 1.17, 2.55), perinatal Asphyxia (AHR: 2.25(95% CI: 1.67, 3.02) and recent multiple pregnancies (AHR: 1.66(1.22, 2.26) were significantly associated predictors of preterm neonatal mortality.
CONCLUSION: Preterm neonatal mortality remains a significant health problem in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. It is basic to revamp the current work procedures and practices through the improvement of antenatal care, early breastfeeding, and timely detection of perinatal asphyxia, early neonatal sepsis, and hypertension
School Financial Management Strategies for Improving the Quality of Education
Authors: Riinawati Riinawati , Sulistiono Dany , Jayadi Usman , Bahri Syaiful , Basir Abdul , Hasanah Mila , Huda Nadya
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine the school's financial management strategy for improving the quality of education in Islamic Senior High School Ukhuwah Banjarmasin. This research uses a qualitative approach with the type of case study, taking the research location at the Islamic Senior High School Ukhuwah Banjarmasin. Data collection methods were carried out by 1) Interviews; 2) Observation; 3) Documentation. The analysis technique uses Miles and Huberman's interactive analysis model: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Meanwhile, checking the validity of the data was carried out by extending the research time and persistence in observing, triangulating, and using references. The research findings show that the school's financial planning strategy in improving the quality of education at the Islamic Senior High School Ukhuwah Banjarmasin through a) Conducting meetings at the beginning of the school year; b) Formulating programs; c) Establishing budgets; d) Carry out revision deliberations; e) Conducting evaluation results; f) Providing solutions or inputs; g) School Revenue and Expenditure Budget Plan (RAPBS).
Standardizing the assessment of amoebicidal efficacy of contact lens solutions against Acanthamoeba species
Authors: Kroon Lieke , Randag Anna Clara , Otten Henny , Schimmer Barbara , Tehupeiory-Kooreman Marlou , Claro-Handgraaf Cindy Arias , Stelma Foekje Francina
Published: September 2022

Background
To date no standardized methods are used in order to assess the amoebicidal efficacy of commercial contact lens solutions for both trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba species. Here we present two methods that are suitable for this purpose: The Spearman-Karber log reduction method and XTT colorimetric assay.
Methods
Acanthamoeba castellanii (ATCC 50370) and A. polyphaga (ATCC 30461) trophozoites were cultured in peptone-yeast extract-glucose medium. Cysts were developed in Neff’s encystement medium for 1 week. Spearman-Karber and XTT colorimetric assay were used to evaluate trophozoite and cystocidal efficacy of multi-purpose contact lens solutions (MPS).
Results
With trophozoites, the Spearman-Karber method gave a log reduction estimate of morphological kill between log 0,83 and log 3,61 of the various contact lens solutions, enabling the differentiation between efficacious and less efficacious solutions. With cysts the maximum log reduction of 2,17 was achieved for all 3 MPS solutions at 8 hours. The XTT colorimetric assay showed reduction in trophozoite metabolic rates between 50 and 100% as provided by an optical density signal. All lens fluid solution with a reduction rate > 90% showed residual growth of Acanthamoeba after one week of incubation on nutrient agar covered with Enterobacter aerogenes.
Conclusion
Both methods give reproducible estimates of amoebicidal efficacy of contact lens solutions, however, XTT colorimetric assay should be followed by an assay for residual growth to test for viable cysts.
Novel hydrocarbon-degradation pathways in uncultured bacteria in industrial-impacted ocean waters
Authors: Landa Mirna Vázquez Rosas , De Anda Valerie , Waldram Georgia , Rohwer Robin , Angelova Angelina , Gutierrez Tony , Baker Brett J.
Published: September 2022

Background
Microbes play an active role in oil spill remediation, but little is known about the baseline hydrocarbon-degrading communities that exist before a spill occurs, or the diversity of metabolic mechanisms responsible for degradation. The Faroe Shetland Channel (FSC) is a region of the North Atlantic Ocean with prominent oil production and a diverse microbial community associated with the degradation of petroleum compounds. We characterized the baseline hydrocarbon-degrading communities of the FSC and identified potential novel molecular mechanisms for petrochemical degradation.
Results
We obtained 42 metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) from bacteria actively utilizing a major compound in oil, n-hexadecane, via stable isotope probing (SIP) from the FSC. Phylogenomics revealed that they belong to 19 genera, including two not previously shown to degrade hydrocarbons: Lentibacter(Alphaproteobacteria) and Dokdonia(Bacteroidetes). Diversity surveys indicated Lentibacter were dominant members of the FSC, constituting up to 17% of these communities. 42% of the SIP-enriched MAGs encoded a complete alkane oxidation pathway containing alkane monooxygenase (AlkB), rubredoxin reductase (AlkT), and rubredoxin-2 (AlkG). However, 40% of the Alphaproteobacteria lacked AlkG for electron transfer in alkane hydroxylation. Instead, they encoded novel disulfide isomerases with iron-binding cysteine motifs conserved across rubredoxins. Dokdonialacked AlkT and AlkG, however, their central alkane-degradation catabolic pathways were complete.
Conclusion
This study describes new bacteria capable of hydrocarbon degradation including the dominant genera Lentibacter, along with novel putative hydrocarbon degradation enzymes. These bacteria may be continuously purging hydrocarbons released from industrial activities in the FSC. This study advances our understanding of the diversity and physiologies of alkane degradation in the North Atlantic and provides evidence of new mechanisms used to metabolize alkanes.
Interaction of Low-level Dietary Supplementation of Chlorella vulgaris and Feeding Duration on Growth Hormone, Growth Performance and Biochemical Indices of Red Hybrid Tilapia
Authors: Ahmad M. T. , Shariff Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Chlorella is one of the most widely accepted Chlorophyta used by many as livestock and aquaculture feed. However, different studies on the overall performances of fish reported the unfavourable effect of high-level supplementations of Chlorella vulgaris. The current study determined the impact of low-level dietary supplementation of C. vulgaris alongside the different feeding durations and their interactions on the growth hormone, growth performances, biochemical indices, hepatic function, and some immunological parameters of red hybrid tilapia. The fingerlings were fed diets containing 0, 1%, 3%, and 5% of C. vulgaris powder kg− 1 dry diet for 90 days. Growth hormone, growth performance, biochemical indices (total serum protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase), and some immunological (respiratory burst, lysozyme activities) parameters of the fish were examined after 30, 60 and 90 days of feeding. The results demonstrated that tilapia fed C. vulgaris supplemented diets showed increased levels of respiratory burst, lysozyme, albumin and total protein, growth hormone, and growth performances (p < 0.05), and the effects were duration dependent. Following the 90 days of feeding, there was no adverse effect on the hepatic function of the fish. Besides, low survivability was observed in the control group than in the group fed the experimental diets. The group fed the diet supplemented with 5% C. vulgaris had significantly higher (p < 0.05) activity at all the duration of feeding compared to other treatments. These results indicate that C. vulgaris enhanced growth performances, growth hormone concentration, biochemical indices, and some immunological parameters of red tilapia.