bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue Integration and Chondroprotective Potential of Acetabular Labral Augmentation with Autograft Tendon
Authors: Su Tiao , Ao Yunong , Yang Liu , Chen Guang-xing
Published: February 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to explore the tissue healing process and changes in articular cartilage following acetabular labral augmentation in a porcine model.

Methods:

The labrum was resected unilaterally from 10 o’clock to 1 o’clock on the capsular side in 36 pigs. Eighteen pigs underwent labral augmentation (AUG group) using autologous Achilles tendon. No additional procedures were performed in the remaining pigs (control group). The pigs were killed at 6, 12, or 24 weeks postoperatively for histological assessment and measurement of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in synovial fluid.

Results:

All autografts were well placed in the labral defect in the AUG group, and good integration of the autograft with the remnant chondrolabral junction was observed at 24 weeks; only scar tissue was observed in the control group at 6, 12, and 24 weeks. Fibrochondrocytes were concentrated at the transition between the autograft and native labrum at early time points, and the cells within the autograft labrum were predominantly fibrochondrocytes at 24 weeks. Rough and irregular articular cartilage surfaces were observed in 3 of the 6 samples in the AUG group at 24 weeks; the others appeared smooth. Focal cartilage erosion (predominantly in the acetabulum) occurred in all samples in the control group at 12 and 24 weeks. The Mankin score at 24 weeks was significantly lower in the AUG group than in the control group (mean [95% confidence interval]: 2.33 [1.06 to 3.6] versus 9 [8.06 to 9.94], p < 0.001). Likewise, the concentrations of all cytokines (in pg/mL) were significantly lower in the AUG group than in the control group at 24 weeks (IL-6: 166.6 [155.22 to 177.94] versus 245.9 [242.66 to 249.14], p < 0.001; IL-1β: 122.1 [116.4 to 127.83] versus 282.9 [280.29 to 285.51], p < 0.001; and TNF-α: 56.22 [53.15 to 59.29] versus 135 [131.66 to 138.24], p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Autograft tendon used for labral augmentation was able to integrate well with the native labrum, which may help to preserve the articular cartilage.

Clinical Relevance:

Labral augmentation with autograft tendon may be a feasible option in cases of viable labral remnants.
Cost Analysis of Conversion Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Denyer Steven , Eikani Carlo , Bujnowski Daniel , Farooq Hassan , Brown Nicholas
Published: February 2023

Background:

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after prior knee surgery, also known as conversion TKA (convTKA), has been associated with higher complications, resource utilization, time, and effort. The increased surgical complexity of convTKA may not be reflected by the relative value units (RVUs) assigned under the current U.S. coding guidelines. The purpose of this study was to compare the RVUs of primary TKA and convTKA and to calculate the RVU per minute to account for work effort.

Methods:

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (NSQIP) database was analyzed for the years 2005 to 2020. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code 27447 alone was used to identify patients who underwent primary TKA, and 27447 plus 20680 were used to identify convTKA. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 1,600 cases were assigned to each cohort. The 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule RVU-to-dollar conversion factor from the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) was used to calculate RVU dollar valuations per operative time. Complication rates were compared using a multivariate logistic regression model controlling for baseline characteristics.

Results:

The mean operative time for TKA was 97.8 minutes, with a corresponding RVU per minute of 0.25, while the mean operative time for convTKA was 124.3 minutes, with an RVU per minute of 0.19 (p < 0.0001). Using the conversion factor of $33.06 per RVU, this equated to $8.11 per minute for TKA versus $6.39 per minute for convTKA. ConvTKA was associated with higher overall complication (10.9% versus 6.5%, p < 0.0001), blood transfusion (6.6% versus 3.7%, p < 0.01), reoperation (2.3% versus 0.94%, p < 0.0001), and readmission (3.7% versus 1.8%, p < 0.001) rates.

Conclusions:

The current billing guidelines lead to lower compensation for convTKA despite its increased complexity. The longer operative time, higher complication rate, and increased resource utilization may incentivize providers to avoid performing this operation. CPT code revaluation is warranted to reflect the time and effort associated with this procedure.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Analysis of Transient Characteristics of Induced Polarization in Innovative Mineral Exploration Solutions (from Case Studies of Gold Deposits)
Authors: Gurin G.V. , Tarasov A.V. , Titov К.V.
Published: February 2023

—The paper discusses current state of the spectral approach to analysis of induced polarization (IP), its possibilities and limitations, along with directions for the method development. Reviewed are the main methods and approaches for estimation of spectral IP parameters and their specific features. Our practical experiments have shown the advantages of analysis of transient IP characteristics over standard approaches to the IP data analysis and processing. Results of the standard and spectral approaches application to analysis of IP data when solving mineral exploration problems at the Maletoyvayam gold deposit (Kamchatka Peninsula) and the Yasnoe gold occurrence (Taimyr Peninsula) are compared. Here, we demonstrate that low efficiency of works is erroneously regarded as one of the main factors hindering a broad adoption of the spectral IP method in mineral exploration activities. Rather, it is a lack of automated techniques for analysis of transient IP characteristics. We propose a new approach to spectral analysis of IP data, based on the algorithms for image recognition of a reference object, and describe pioneering efforts of its practical application.
Interference Patterns Within a Circular Boundary
Authors: Korula Aswan
Published: February 2023

In this paper we conduct a simple experiment within a circular ripple tank that conceals a paradox of unequal path lengths equivalent to the Michelson-Morley experiment of 1887. Leveraging on the equivalence of aqueous and optical interferometry, we analyse the outcome of our experiment to uncover a conflict between the predictions of general relativity and the symmetry of nature. Most astoundingly, it may be possible that this everyday
phenomena and its analysis has somehow escaped the attention of rational thinkers from
antiquity to the present day.
Automated western blot analysis of ototoxin-induced prestin burst in the blood after cyclodextrin exposure
Authors: Harrison Megan S , Driscoll Brittany G , Farnsworth Jason , Hinton Ashley , Peppi Marcello , McLean Will , Parham Kourosh
Published: February 2023

In the clinical realm, we primarily rely on audiological measures for diagnosis and surveillance of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and have limited therapeutic options. We have proposed a blood-based biomarker approach to overcome this challenge by measuring the outer hair cell’s (OHC) electromotile protein, prestin, in the blood. In a guinea pig model of cyclodextrin (CDX) ototoxicity, using western blots, we show that prestin in the blood may have several different forms and specifically the ~ 134 kDa form spikes after ototoxin ablation of OHCs. This form appears to be a glycosylated dimer likely secreted by the inner ear as exosomes reflecting increased expression after ototoxin exposure. These results suggest that the ~ 134 kDa dimer may serve as a biomarker for early detection of ototoxicity in the clinical setting. However, because prestin can still be measured in the blood after total ablation of OHCs, its ability to inform on OHC health is restricted to a narrow window after ototoxin-induced injury. Monitoring prestin, when using therapeutics with ototoxic properties, could guide dosage and administration schedule to minimize damage.
Extending the speed range of super-high-speed electric air compressor based on erosion analysis of the stator voltage stability domain
Authors: hu donghai , Hu Leli , Zhou Jiaming , Yang Qingqing , Zhang Jiongzhi , Li Jianwei
Published: February 2023

Fuel cell vehicles have high energy conversion efficiency, which can completely replace gasoline and diesel in fuel. The development of super-high-speed electric air compressor (SHSEAC) has become one of the important guarantees for the high power output performance of fuel cells. The maximum rotational speed and rotational speed fluctuation of the SHSEAC have become the key factors affecting the power output of the super-high-speed electric air compressor. When the SHSEAC reaches a certain limit during the actual speed-up process, it will enter the chaotic region, and the phenomenon of speed fluctuation will occur, which inhibits the maximum speed that can be achieved. The purpose of this paper is to study the influence of the d-axis stator voltage (Ud) and q-axis stator voltage (Uq) of the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) on the speed stability domain, and to suppress the speed fluctuation by optimizing the voltage stability domain, thereby expanding the speed range of the SHSEAC. First, the nonlinear dynamic model of the SHSEAC is established and the Ud and Uq balance points are calculated; secondly, the mutual erosion phenomenon of the Ud and Uq stability domains is revealed; finally, a stability migration control method based on rotational speed fluctuation is proposed. The experimental results show that after optimization, the speed fluctuation is reduced from 247.93 rpm to 18.56 rpm, and the maximum speed is increased from 152,155 rpm to 154,336 rpm.
Vascular epiphytes on large old-growth trees: the influence of ecological zones in epiphyte species composition
Authors: Scipioni Marcelo , Fischer Vera Lúcia de Souza Teixeira , Melo Edilaine Andrade , Caglioni Eder , Santos Vanderlei dos
Published: February 2023

The over time establishment of epiphyte communities on large old-growth trees has shown that epiphyte numbers tend to rise in relation to the size of their phorophytes. The objective of our study was to perform a floristic survey of vascular epiphytes on last large old-growth trees in a subtropical forest and to compare species richness between conifers and hardwood trees. Nine phorophytes (0.9 - 2.1 m in diameter and 22 - 40 m in height) in one of the last remaining old-growth forests were selected for study. Epiphyte locations on the trees were divided into the following ecological zones: base of the trunk: first 1.30 m above ground; mid-section of the trunk: from the trunk base to the crown base; crown base: 1.30 m below the crown; and crown. We found 30 species of epiphytes, distributed in 21 genera and 11 families. Among the distribution patterns of the epiphytes there were species predominantly occurring in the basal or mid-trunk region of the phorophytes (e.g., Billbergia nutans); other species occupied the upper portion of the phorophyte, between the mid-trunk and the crown (e.g., Vriesea reitzii). The relationship between size in large old host trees and vascular epiphyte species richness is not positive and linear. Vascular epiphyte species richness by host trees species was indifferent among large old trees species, even though Ocotea porosa (hardwood) has an apparently larger crown greater and show more abundance of epiphytes than that of Araucaria angustifolia (conifer).
A Novel Method to Dynamically Observe the Three-dimensional Global Oceanic Dissolved Organic Carbon Reservoir
Authors: Yan Mingquan , Liu Zhongli , Mo Shansheng , zhang chenyang , Liu Fei , Korshin Gregory
Published: February 2023

The current ex situ analytical methods to determine concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) are largely inadequate to form a dynamic understanding of the global carbon cycling, especially given the urgent need to understand how the oceans are responding to increasing concentrations of atmospheric CO2 and climate change. Here we establish a DOC algorithm, referred to as DOCUVFW, that is based on absorption characteristics of dissolved organic matter in the wavelength range of 275-443 nm. The algorithm performs uniformly for coastal and pelagic waters, as well as inland waters with DOC concentrations varying by several orders of magnitude. By applying the DOCUVFW algorithm, the three-dimensional distribution of oceanic DOC could be quantified via ocean color observed complementarily using field-observation spectral data and satellite remote-sensing images.
BaoShenTongLuo formula protects against podocyte injury by regulating AMPK-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in diabetic kidney disease.
Authors: Guo Yifan , Wang Mengdi , Liu Yufei , Pang Yanyu , Tian Lei , Zhao Jingwen , Liu Mengchao , Shen Cun , Meng Yuan , Wang Yuefen , Cai Zhen , Zhao Wenjing
Published: February 2023

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered to be an important contributor in podocyte injury under diabetic conditions. The BaoShenTongLuo (BSTL) formula has been shown to reduce podocyte damage and postpone the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The potential mechanisms underlying the effects of BSTL, however, have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the effects of BSTL are related to the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis via the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway.
Methods:HPLC-ESI-MS analysis was performed to investigate the characteristics of pure compounds in BSTL. db/db mice and mouse podocyte clone-5 (MPC5) cells were exposed to high glucose (HG) to induce DKD and podocyte damage. Body weight, random blood glucose, urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR), indicators of renal function and renal histological lesions were measured. Markers of podocyte injury, mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) content, mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes activities, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels were assessed. Protein expressions of AMPK, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α), transcription factor A (TFAM), mitochondrial fusion protein 2 (MFN2) and dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) were also detected. MPC5 cells were transfected with AMPKα small interfering RNA (AMPKα siRNA) to determine the underlying mechanisms of BSTL improvement of mitochondrial function under diabetic conditions.
Results: In vivo, treatment with BSTL reduced the UACR levels, reversed the histopathological changes in renal tissues, and alleviated the podocyte injury observed in db/db mice. After BSTL treatment, the decreased mtDNA content and mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I, III, and IV activities were significantly improved, and these effects were accompanied by maintenance of the protein expression of p-AMPKαT172, PGC-1α, TFAM and MFN2. The in vitro experiments also showed that BSTL reduced podocyte apoptosis, suppressed excessive cellular ROS production, and reversed the decreased in MMP that were observed under HG conditions. More importantly, the effects of BSTL in enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and reducing podocyte apoptosis were inhibited in AMPKα siRNA-treated podocytes.
Conclusion: BSTL plays a crucial role in protecting against podocyte injury by regulating the AMPK-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in DKD.
Efficacy and safety of carnitine supplementation on NAFLD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Aiping , Cai Yitong , Yuan Yuan , Liu Ming , Zhang Zhengjing , Xu Yongquan , Jiao Pingzu
Published: February 2023

Background & Objective: The efficacy and safety of L-carnitine supplementation on Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of L-carnitine supplementation on NAFLD.
Methods: We searched in four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) from inception to 1 November 2022 for potentially relevant records without language restrictions. We collected information on first author, publication year, country, setting, study design, population characteristics, duration of follow-up, outcome variables of interest, and sources of funding. We using a modified Cochrane risk of bias tool assessed the risk of bias, and using GRADE assessed the certainly of evidence, and using the Credibility of Effect Modification Analyses (ICEMAN) tool assessed the credibility of any apparent subgroup effect.
Results:This systematic review and meta-analysis included eight eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Low certainty evidence show that L-carnitine supplementation significantly changes (reduced) in the AST levels and ALT levels (MD: -26.38, 95%CI: -45.46 to -7.30). Moderate certainty evidence show that L-carnitine supplementation significantly changes in the HDL-cholesterol levels (MD: 1.14, 95%CI: 0.21 to 2.07) and the Triglyceride levels (MD: -6.92, 95%CI: -13.82 to -0.03). Moderate credibility of ICEMAN result show that L-carnitine supplementation no difference on changes of AST and ALT levels in younger (MD: 0.5, 95%CI: -0.70 to 1.70), but have significantly changes (reduced) in the adults (MD: -20.3, 95%CI: -28.62 to -12.28).
Conclusion: L-carnitine supplementation may improve liver function and regulates triglyceride metabolism in patients with NAFLD, and with no significant adverse effects.
Influence of feeding mustard oil cake and soybean meal in calf starter on growth and blood metabolites of crossbred dairy calves
Authors: Sarker Md. Abid Hasan , Hossain Nobin , Arefin Sumaiya , Bari Md. Sadakatul , Habib Md. Rezwanul , Khandakar Md. Mehedi Hasan , Islam Md. Zakirul , Islam Mohammad Ashiqul , Rashid Md. Harun-ur- , Siddiki Mohammad Shohel Rana
Published: February 2023

The study was designed to envisage the changes in growth measurements and blood metabolites of crossbred dairy calves in response to calf starters feeding with different protein sources. All calves up to three days of age were kept on colostrum feeding. Then, calves were given 2.5 L of fresh whole milk for up to 10 days and 3 L of fresh whole milk for up to 56 days. Calves were fed a farm starter (control), other dietary groups starter containing mustard oil cake (MOC), soybean meal (SM), and a mixture of MOC and SM as MOCSM protein sources. Starting on day 21, all of the calves received starter feeds. On day 56, they were weaned, and the study included calves until day 70. Data were recorded on dry matter intake, growth measurements and blood nutrients profile. Calves consumed greater DM when MOC in the starter was supplied, which was 22.5% more than that of the control-fed group. Calves feeding with SM and MOCSM consumed almost similar quantities of DM at 220.87 and 224.87 g/head/day, respectively. The BWG of calves increased significantly by 5.04 and 4.06% more in the MOC-fed group than in the SM and MOCSM groups. MOC, SM, and MOCSM-fed calves had similar (p > 0.05) BLG; however, the control diet had significantly lower BLG. Blood glucose levels did not vary among the calves fed the control, MOC, SM, and MOCSM diets. Significantly higher serum albumin, urea, and BUN concentrations were found in MOC diet-fed calves than in others. Calcium and phosphorus concentration varied significantly among dietary groups and was noticeably lower in the control group compared to the other dietary groups. The results revealed that calf starters endowed with MOC as a protein source and in combination with SM were found advantageous in improving body growth and development.
Study on Collection and Retention Efficiencies of a New Integrated Collector Storage Solar Water Heating System Using a Planar Thermal Diode: An Experimental Study
Authors: farzan hadi , Yousefelahi Mohammad Javad
Published: February 2023

Thermal diodes are a novel method to rectify the heat transfer mechanism, and this technique helps reduce heat losses in solar thermal collectors. The current study introduced a new planar thermal diode integrated collector storage (ICS) solar water heating system to analyze the effectiveness of the newly introduced thermal diode in reducing heat losses. This thermal diode ICS system utilizes water as phase change materials to transfer heat through evaporation and condensation. Three scenarios were considered to assess the dynamics of the thermal diode ICS: atmospheric-pressure and depressurized thermal diodes, Ppartial = 0, -0.2, -0.4 bar. The water temperature reached 40 oC, 46 oC, and 42 oC in Ppartial = 0, -0.2, and − 0.4 bar, respectively. The heat gain coefficients are 38.61, 40.65, and 39.26 W/K, while the heat loss coefficients are 9.56, 5.16, and 7.03 W/K in Ppartial = 0, -0.2, and − 0.4 bar, respectively. The optimum heat collection and retention efficiencies are 45.3% and 33.5% in Ppartial = -0.2 bar. Hence, there is an optimum partial pressure to achieve the best performance, equal to -0.2 bar. The acquired results illustrate the robustness of the planar thermal diode in reducing heat losses and rectifying the heat transfer mechanism.
Dental arch spatial changes after premature loss of first primary molars: A systematic review and meta-analysis of split-mouth studies
Authors: Zhao Jingzi , Jin Hua , Li Xiaoning , Qin Xiurong
Published: February 2023

Background This study aimed to evaluate spatial changes in dental arches resulting from premature loss of first primary molars and assess the necessity of a space maintainer. Methods We searched the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials, and EMBASE. Split-mouth studies involving unilateral premature loss of a primary first molar were included. Quality assessment of selected studies made use of the Newcastle Ottawa scale. Mean space differences were calculated for the D + E and D spaces, arch width, arch length, arch perimeter. Results Of the 329 studies considered, 11 split-mouth studies were selected, including 246 cases in the maxilla and 217 in the mandible from 477 individuals aged 5–10 years. Over the medium-term follow-up period (6–24 months), space loss was 0.65 mm in the maxillary D + E (MD 0.65, 95% CI 0.15–1.16, P = 0.01), 1.24 mm in the mandibular D + E (MD 1.24, 95% CI 0.60–1.89, P < 0.01), and 1.47 mm in the mandibular D (MD 1.47, 95% CI 0.66–2.28, P < 0.01). There was no significant change in arch width, length, or arch perimeter between the initial and follow-up examinations (P > 0.05). Factors such as age, time since tooth extraction, facial types, dental arches, eruptive status of the first permanent molar and molar relationships influenced the space change . Conclusions It is advisable to assess related factors such as age, time since tooth extraction, facial types, dental arch, eruptive status of the first permanent molar, and molar relationships before using a space maintainer after premature loss of first primary molars.
Implementation framework for Income Generating Activities identified by community heath volunteers: a strategy to reduce CHV attrition rate in Kilifi County Kenya
Authors: Riang’a Roselyter Monchari , Nyanja Njeri , Lusambili Adelaide , Mwangi Eunice Muthoni , Ehrlich Joshua R. , Clayde Paul , Mostert Cyprian , Ngugi Anthony
Published: February 2023

Background
Strategy Implementation has increasingly become a focus of scientific studies. Failure of strategy implementation may result in high monetary costs, wasted time and human resources, and reduced community enthusiasm and diminished trust in project sponsors. This study sought to investigate viable modalities for implementing Income Generating Activities (IGAs) for Community Health Volunteers (CHV) in Kilifi County Kenya as a strategy to improve their livelihoods, increase motivation and reduce attrition.
Methods:
This was an exploratory qualitative research study. Key informant in-depth interviews were conducted among sub-county Ministry officials and multi-lateral stakeholder representatives. A further 10 Focus group discussions with CHVs were conducted. The data were thematically analysed using MAXQDA 20.2 software. Data codding, analysis and presentation was guided by the Okumu’s (2003) Strategy Implementation framework on factors to consider when implementing strategic decisions: 1) Need for Strategy (Income Generating activities) development, 2) Operational process [ (i) IGAs selection strategy, ii) Resources, iii) people & iv) controls. A new variable, however, emerged from the findings; namely, networks.
Results:
A need for stable income was identified as the driving factor for CHVs seeking IGAs, as their health volunteer work is non-remunerative. Contextualized projects that acknowledged diversity of CHVs in terms of environmental conditions of origin, experience, culture, and market viability, informed their IGA selection strategy. Self-savings through table-banking, seeking funding support through loans xx from government funding agencies (e.g., Uwezo Fund, Women Enterprise fund, Youth Fund), grants from corporate agencies, politicians, and other donors were proposed. Formal registration of IGAs with a Government Ministry, developing a guiding constitution, empowering CHVs with leadership skills, project and group diversity management, and entrepreneurial skills, and connecting them to support agencies, were the control measures proposed by the CHVs & Key Informants to enhance sustainability of IGAs. Group owned and managed IGAs were preferred over individual IGAs.
Conclusion:
CHVs are in need of IGAs and proposed their own implementation strategies informed by local context. Agencies supporting IGAs should therefore be guided by the modalities proposed by CHVs and local stakeholders.
Identification of a Novel and Stable QTL for Seed Oil Content in Soybean
Authors: Li Bing , Peng Jinyu , Wu Yueying , Hu Quan , Huang Wenxuan , Yuan Zhihui , Tang Xiaofei , Cao Dan , Xue Yongguo , Luan Xiaoyan , Hou Jingjing , Liu Xinlei , Sun Lianjun
Published: February 2023

Soybean oil content is one of the most valuable quantitative traits. The improvement in seed oil contents is very important for breeding application. In this study, we constructed a high-density single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) linkage genetic map by using two genetically similar parents, Heinong 84 (HN 84) and Kenfeng 17 (KF 17), and performed QTL mapping of seed oil content based on recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations from a cross between two parents. QTL analysis showed that five QTLs related to seed oil content were identified, distributing on Gm05, Gm07, Gm10, Gm15, and Gm18 chromosomes, respectively. Of which, a novel QTL for seed oil content on Gm15, named qOil_15, was notably detected, both explaining over 10.00% phenotypic variation explained (PVE) in two years. In addition, twenty candidate genes were identified in the oil-related QTL region, and the key candidate gene is identical to previously reported gene GmRNF1a, encoding an E3 ubiquitin ligase. Two insertions in the coding regions of KF 17 resulting in protein elongation variant, which speculated GmRNF1a is a potential seed oil content related gene. These results provided an enrichment of QTLs and potential candidates for seed oil content, as well as useful new information for genetic mechanism and genetic improvement of seed oil content in soybean.
International Cooperation and the Challenge of Internet Accessibility in Caribbean Territories: Example of a Collaborative Platform Between the University Hospital of Martinique and Ramón González Coro Hospital in Cuba, Through the French PRPH-3 Program
Authors: Houpert Rémi , Almont Thierry , Mésenge Christian , Kleinebreil Line , Forlini Laurence , Magnone Bruno , Leroux Vincent , Vestris Mylène , Montabord Christelle , Carmenate Jaylin , Galán Yaima , Rubio Maria Caredad , Burte Carol , Gatimel Nicolas , Bujan Louis , Kara Norelyakin , Enriquez Rodolfo , Edwige Olivier , Huyghe Éric , JOACHIM Clarisse , VERONIQUE-BAUDIN Jacqueline
Published: February 2023

Background: Martinique shares specific public health problems with other Caribbean countries, particularly in cancer patients' diagnostic and therapeutic management. In order to support cooperation initiatives, France has set up a "Hospital Network and Partnership Projects" (PRPH) program to finance collaborative projects between a French hospital and a foreign hospital identified. This program contributes to improving the quality of care and management of developing hospitals. Sexuality and fertility disorders are frequent and long-lasting sequelae of cancer and its treatment. A digital collaborative platform seemed to be the most appropriate solution for the Caribbean ecosystem due to the specificities of the islands.
Methods: We propose the implementation of an open-source platform based on a Learning Content Management System (LCMS), with an operating system developed by UNFM. The infrastructure is based on the LO (Learning Objects) model, which is composed of learning objectives, assessments and content.
This training management platform is based on: a TCC learning system (Training, Coaching, Communities); a web-hosting with pedagogical engineering appropriate to low bandwidth; a reporting system and a responsibility for processing.
Results: We have set up a flexible, multilingual and accessible digital learning strategy functionality called e-MCPPO in a Caribbean ecosystem.
The learning features aligned with the e-learning strategy are
- A multidisciplinary team;
- An appropriate training program for expert health professionals;
- A responsive design.
The proposed solution guarantees a perennial, simple and free access in low bandwidth considering innovative digital technologies, on any type of device.
Discussion and Conclusion: This web-based infrastructure allows communities of experts to cooperate in creating, validating, publishing and managing academic learning content. The self-learning modules provide the digital layer for each learner to extend their skills. Learners, as well as trainers, would gradually take ownership of this platform and encourage its promotion. This collaborative digital platform is unique in its form and content. Through bilateral exchanges, French and Cuban professionals will share their expertise in fertility preservation and sexual rehabilitation after cancer. Indexing such audio-visual pedagogical resources is a major challenge for expert practice community. This challenge could contribute to the digital transformation of the Caribbean ecosystem.
Investigating anabolic-androgenic steroid dependence and muscle dysmorphia with network analysis
Authors: Scarth Morgan , Westlye Lars T. , Havnes Ingrid A. , Bjørnebekk Astrid
Published: February 2023

Background
Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) dependence has numerous adverse health consequences, and may be driven in part by body image concerns, primarily muscle dysmorphia. This study aims to further understanding and identify potential clinical targets using network analyses of AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms in males who used AAS and weightlifting controls.
Methods
A sample of 153 men who had used AAS and 88 weight-lifting controls were recruited through social media and relevant online forums, and via posters and flyers distributed in select gyms in Oslo, Norway. Symptoms of AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia were assessed using clinical interviews and standardized questionnaires. Severity of muscle dysmorphia symptoms were compared between the groups using independent samples t-tests. The following symptom networks were computed using Gaussian graphical modeling or mixed graphical modeling: 1) AAS dependence symptoms among men who has used AAS 2) muscle dysmorphia symptoms among men who had used AAS and weight-lifting controls in two separate networks, which were compared using a network comparison test, and 3) AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms among men who had used AAS.
Results
In a network of AAS dependence symptoms, continuing use despite physical and mental problems, using longer than planned, tolerance, and work/life interference were the most central symptoms. When comparing symptom structures of muscle dysmorphia between those who used AAS and controls, the most central symptoms in each group were exercise dependence and size/symmetry concerns, respectively. Men who had used AAS demonstrated elevated muscle dysmorphia symptoms compared to controls, indicating that both the severity and structure of symptoms differ between these groups. In a network including both AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms among men who had used, no significant connections between symptom groups were identified.
Conclusions
AAS dependence is complex, with correlated somatic and psychological challenges driving the symptom network, indicating that alleviating physical and mental health concerns during both AAS use and cessation is an important clinical target.
S-oph enzyme for efficient degradation of Polyvinyl alcohol: Soluble expression and Catalytic properties
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Li Jiaxuan , Lin Xiaoshan , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2023

Background
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is one of the most widely used water-soluble polymers with great mechanical properties. However, water-soluble polymers are one of the major organic pollution sources in streams, river, and marine ecosystems. Once dispersed in aqueous systems, they can directly interfere with the life cycle of aquatic organisms due to their direct toxicity. Therefore, it is urgent to develop efficient microorganisms or enzyme to degrade it. The oxidized PVA hydrolase (OPHase) plays an important role in the pathway of PVA biodegradation. It is the key enzyme in the second step of PVA completely degradation.
Methods and Results
The s-oph gene was cloned from laboratory isolated strain Sphingopyxis sp. M19. The s-oph gene was expressed in the E. coli system pET32a/s-oph expression vector in the form of an inclusion body. By binding with the molecular chaperone, pET32a/s-oph/BL21 (DE3)/pGro7 was constructed successfully, which enabled the s-oph gene to achieve soluble expression in E. coli. The s-oph gene expressed protein was purified at the yield of 16.8 mg L− 1, and its catalytic activity reached 852.71 U mg− 1. In the s-oph enzyme reaction system, the degradation efficiency of PVA can be increased to 233.5% compared to the controls.
Conclusion
The s-oph enzyme had PVA degradation characteristics, high efficiency, specificity, and stability. The s-oph enzyme has good practical application potential in alleviating plastic pollution and protecting the environment.
Student nurses as a future General Practice Nursing workforce. Implementing Collaborative Learning in Practice: implications for placement learning and patient access. A mixed methods study.
Authors: Williamson Graham Richard , Kane Adele , Evans Sharon , Attrill Lisa , Cook Fiona , Nash Katy
Published: February 2023

BackgroundThere is a global shortage of nurses, with particularly acute shortfall in General Practice Nursing in the United Kingdom estimated at as high as 50% vacancy rate by 2031 by some sources. There has previously been some reluctance for GP practices to host student nurses on placement, but it has become imperative to increase placement capacity in GP placements for student nurses if practices are to be able to recruit a future workforce. Collaborative Learning in Practice is a means of organising placement learning for student nurses using a coaching model, that allows for leadership development, peer support and earlier engagement in patient care, and increases placement capacity.MethodsThis was a mixed methods study using qualitative data from focus groups to evaluate the implementation of CLIP, and routinely collected audit data on numbers of clinic appointments to investigate the potential impact an increased capacity of student nurses might have on patient access to services. The aims of this study were: to implement and evaluate CLIP in GPN settings; to explore issues of interprofessional learning; to explore patient access to services related to increased student nurse capacity.ResultsOur qualitative data indicated the following themes as important to students and staff: Peer Support; Interprofessional Learning; and the Importance of ‘own clinics’ for students to see patients. The routinely collected audit data indicated that having students leading their own clinics increased the clinic numbers available by approximately 20% compared to when students were not in placement.ConclusionsThis study shows that student nurses increased clinic capacity and improved access for patients. Students valued their General Practice Nursing placement, felt that they were more ‘part of the team’ than in other placements and consequently had a greater sense of belonging. This was multifaceted, coming in part from the welcoming practice staff, in part from the opportunities for peer support engendered by the collaborative leaning in practice model, and in part from the interprofessional learning opportunities available. General Practice Nursing placements for students are important for future workforce recruitment and can help meet Quality and Outcomes Framework targets for General Practices.
Blow up of solutions of Kirchhoff type viscoelastic wave equations with logarithmic nonlinearity of variable exponents
Authors: Wu Yuyu , Gao Yunzhu
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a new Kirchhoff type viscoelastic wave equation with logarithmic nonlinearity of variable exponents is studied. By constructing auxiliary functions and using Young’s inequality and Gagliardo-Nirenberg inequality, the energy identity and finite blow up of the solution for the problem are given. These results extend and improve the previous results on logarithmic nonlinearity with variable exponents.
Physical mechanisms of internal seiche attenuation for non-ideal stratification and basin topography
Authors: Bueno Rafael de Carvalho , Bleninger Tobias , Boehrer Bertram , Lorke Andreas
Published: February 2023

The dynamics of vertical mixing and the occurrence of basin-scale internal waves (internal seiches) in lakes and reservoirs are often classified and described based on the force balance of wind shear and horizontal pressure gradients resulting from wind-generated currents (the Wedderburn number). The classification schemes consider specific time scales that are derived from a simplified vertical density distribution, a rectangular basin shape, and a constant water depth. Using field measurements and numerical simulations with a validated hydrodynamic model, we analyzed the transfer of energy from wind to the internal seiche field in a small reservoir. Our results demonstrate that the basin shape has a strong influence on the energy dissipation and on the transfer of energy to high-frequency internal waves, thereby attenuating the generation of basin-scale internal seiches. Most of the energy loss of the internal seiche occurs at the sloping boundary, where the internal seiche is susceptible to shoaling and breaking. These findings suggest that the Wedderburn number can be used to predict the occurrence of internal seiche activity in continuously stratified systems. As the Wedderburn number and derived mixing classifications are widely applied also for the interpretation of observed ecological and biogeochemical processes, its application to basins with sloping bathymetry and complex shape should be critically scrutinized, and deviations from predicted dynamics, including the presence of hotspots of turbulent mixing, should be considered.
Lung-sparing decortication pleurectomy with intraoperative adjuvant therapy for malignant mesothelioma: a single institute experience in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hwailuh , Pai Jih-Tung , Lee Cho-Yin , Hsieh Yei-San
Published: February 2023

Background: This study aimed to analyze outcomes and overall survival (OS) rates in patients undergoing cytoreductive lung-sparing decortication pleurectomy surgery and intraoperative adjuvant therapy (hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy [HITHOC] or photodynamic therapy [PDT]) for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) at a single center in Taiwan.
Methods: This was a retrospective review of patients who underwent cytoreductive lung-sparing decortication pleurectomy surgery and intraoperative adjuvant therapy for MPM from April 2013 to December 2021.
Results: A total of 17 patients with MPM underwent surgery. There was one case of surgical mortality due to intraoperative uncontrolled bleeding. The subtypes according to histology were epithelioid mesothelioma (58.8%), pleomorphic subtype of epithelioid malignant mesothelioma (5.9%), biphasic mesothelioma (11.8%), and sarcomatoid mesothelioma (23.5%). The median survival was 14.0 months. However, for the epithelioid type, the median survival was 20.0 months.
Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first report from a single center in Taiwan devoted to lung-sparing decortication pleurectomy with intraoperative adjuvant therapy for MPM. MPM is a rare disease in Taiwan. Although our hospital did the most operations for patients with MPM in Taiwan, we were still far away from a high-volume center in the world. The outcome is not satisfactory, but still slightly better than patients who received chemotherapy alone, especially those with epithelial type. One of our patients survived for more than 6 years. We provided an option for the treatment of patients with MPM in Taiwan.
A Verifiable, Multi-Secret, Multi-Use Secret Sharing Scheme using Sponge functions and Cellular Automata
Authors: John Anita , Binoy Abel Paul , Samuval Edvin Basil , R Nikhil Nath R Nath , Jose Jimmy
Published: February 2023

Trusting a single person in a team and revealing a secret only to that person incurs risk in highly confidential applications. Secret Sharing (SS) schemes provide a solution to this situation, whereby the secret(s) is distributed as shares to an authorized subset of team members. The secret will be revealed only when we pool all the shares from this authorized subset. The strength of this scheme relies on the computational infeasibility of an unauthorized member to guess the share of an authorized member. This emphasizes the need for efficient techniques for the generation, distribution and re-usability of shares. This paper proposes a verifiable, multi-secret, multi-use SS scheme based on sponge functions and Cellular Automata (CA). The strength of this scheme depends on the strength of the sponge function used. We show that the use of CA in sponge functions strengthens the message digest, which in turn randomizes the shares generated by our proposed scheme. This helps to prevent the guessing of shares by unauthorized members, thereby making the SS scheme strong and secure.
Rnf-213 knockout induces pericyte reduction and blood-brain barrier impairment in mouse
Authors: Sheng Wenli , Li Wei , Niu Xingyang , Dai Yuanyuan , Wu Xiaoxin , Li Jiaoxing
Published: February 2023

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder characterized by progressive occlusion of the internal carotid artery and the formation of an abnormal compensatory capillary network at the base of the brain. Genomics studies identified Ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) as a common genetic factor that increases the susceptibility to MMD in East Asian people. However, the function of RNF213 and its roles in pathogenesis of MMD is unclear. Here, we showed that genetic knockout of Rnf213 in mice causes significant pericytes reduction and blood-brain barrier impairment in the cortex. These phenotypes are accompanied with microglia activation and elevated level of proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, Rnf213 deficient mice showed reduced expression of tight junction proteins, including Occludin, Claudin-5 and ZO-1. Together, these data suggested that RNF213 might contribute to the pathogenesis of MMD through disruption of pericyte homeostasis and blood-brain barrier integrity by dysregulation of inflammatory responses and tight junction formation.
Byzantine Consensus is Θ(n2): The Dolev-Reischuk Bound is Tight even in Partial Synchrony!
Authors: Civit Pierre , Dzulfikar Muhammad Ayaz , Gilbert Seth , Gramoli Vincent , Guerraoui Rachid , Komatovic Jovan , Vidigueira Manuel
Published: February 2023

The Dolev-Reischuk bound says that any deterministic Byzantine consensus protocol has (at least) quadratic communication complexity in the worst case. While it has been shown that the bound is tight in synchronous environments, it is still unknown whether a consensus protocol with quadratic communication complexity can be obtained in partial synchrony. Until now, the most efficient known solutions for Byzantine consensus in partially synchronous settings had cubic communication complexity (e.g., HotStuff, binary DBFT). This paper closes the existing gap by introducing SQuad, a partially synchronous Byzantine consensus protocol with quadratic worst-case communication complexity. In addition, SQuad is optimally-resilient and achieves linear worst case latency complexity. The key technical contribution underlying SQuad lies in the way we solve view synchronization, the problem of bringing all correct processes to the same view with a correct leader for sufficiently long. Concretely, we present RareSync, a view synchronization protocol with quadratic communication complexity and linear latency complexity, which we utilize in order to obtain SQuad.
Behavior of Atmospheric Air Pollutants during Diwali Fireworks Emission over Western Tropical Semi-Arid and Sub-Urban site, Udaipur, India
Authors: VYAS B M , Saxenna Abhishek
Published: February 2023

Influence of fireworks emissions activity during “The Festival of Lights” or Diwali Episode on the simultaneously measured atmospheric trace gases including suspended materials as air pollutants, i.e., Surface ozone (O3), Nitrogen Oxides (NOX), Carbon monoxide (CO), Particulate Matters of size less than 2.5µm (PM2.5) along with derived sources identification parameters concerning to atmospheric pollution, i.e., angstrom absorption coefficient of Black Carbon aerosol (αabs) and CO/NOx values have been investigated during Diwali and prior as well as in post-Diwali days over Udaipur. From induced ambient air pollution effect during Diwali episode on air pollutant strength and the source discrimination parameters, the following main interesting facts are obtained: (i) a significant amount of enhancement by two to three-time folds in PM2.5 level (peak up to 165 µgm− 3) noticed in Diwali festival day relative to background condition level, i.e., greater than the double value of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) of PM2.5, (ii) specifically, during after sunset to pre-midnight hours, air pollutants along with their source identification parameters values revealed an enhancement by ~ 1.5 to 3 times more during the festival days relative to their non-festival levels resulting from the impact of extra intense spontaneous fireworks and sparklers emission activities in a coincidence of their period with the peak festival celebration. However, their highest magnitude did not go beyond their healthy prescribed limit values, (iii) only temporal day hour O3 variations showed almost appreciable enhancement (varied from 10 to 68 ppb) in conjunction with a remarkable reduction in NOX (spanned from 20 to 2 ppb) in Diwali period and (v) about 40% enhancement in source discrimination parameters values displayed a clear demonstration of majority source type as bio-mass burning activity in Diwali episode and fossil fuel combustion activity in non-festival days. Results are also explained basis on bringing air pollutants by backward airmass trajectory starting from IGP source to receptor site as regional atmospheric air pollution effect.