bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional differences and mortality-associated risk factors among older patients with septic shock: Administrative data analysis with multilevel logistic regression modeling
Authors: Yoshida Shinichiro , Babazono Akira , Liu Ning , Yamao Reiko , Ishihara Reiko , Fujita Takako
Published: December 2022

Background Older patients with septic shock are generally difficult to treat, have poor outcomes because of frailty and vulnerability, and may be highly sensitive to the quality of clinical care. Therefore, differences in treatment that arise from variations in intensive care unit (ICU) policies and each physician may influence mortality. We hypothesized that regional variability exists in mortality among older patients with septic shock, and investigated mortality-associated factors. Methods Administrative medical claims data were analyzed; participants were enrolled from April 2015 to March 2020. In Japan, engagement of at least one ICU physician exclusively at the ICU is a mandatory requirement to claim governmental incentive. In this study, ICU physicians were differentiated as “intensivist” and “ICU-dedicated physician” based on whether they were board-certified or not, respectively, in intensive care medicine. The primary outcome was the 28-day mortality after ICU admission. Data from nine secondary medical areas with ICU facilities were analyzed. We calculated and compared the 28-day mortality by each area. To adjust for patient characteristics and hospital profiles, multilevel logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results Among our 1,238 participants, mortality varied from 18.3–41.4% across nine areas. Based on multilevel logistic analyses, the model including variables on patient characteristics and hospital profiles was best-fitted, and these variables did not vary significantly across the nine areas. Age group, post-surgical admission, and the number of ICU beds per intensivist were significantly associated with mortality. The adjusted odds ratio for the ratio of ICU beds to intensivist was 2.25 (95% CI [1.36–3.72],p < 0.01), compared with no intensivist versus one or more intensivists for four ICU beds. Conclusions Regional mortality variability of older patients with septic shock was ascertained through our analysis. Mortality may be influenced by whether the ICU physicians are board-certified in intensive care medicine. To ensure quality care of older patients with septic shock, standard criteria, similar to those applied to intensivists, should be considered and applied to ICU physicians.
Population Size Estimation of Female Sex Workers Using Network Scale-Up Method in Kermanshah City
Authors: Olfati Lida , Safari-Faramani Roya , Najafi Farid , Nazar Mehdi Moradi , Shakiba Ebrahim
Published: December 2022

Background: Appropriate estimate of size of the female sex workers as well as the other hard-to-reach-populations plays a crucial role in reaching them with effective preventive measures. This study aimed to estimate the population size of female sex workers in Kermanshah City using the network scale-up method.
Method: In this cross-sectional study, of the 1000 pedestrians aged between 18 and 65 years, selected from the population of Kermanshah City via a multistage sampling, were recruited in the study. Face-to-face interview using a questionnaire including the number of FSWs in the social network of the respondent was used to collect the data.
Results: The overall estimated number of female sex workers in the general population was 4247(UI 95%: 3987, 4447). Accordingly, the prevalence of FSWs among women 18 years and older in Kermanshah in 2018 was about 10.5 in one thousand. More than half of the female sex workers in the respondent’s social network were unmarried and were in the age range of 18 to 29, and had a high school or university degree. Among high-risk behaviors, a history of alcohol consumption accounted for the highest percentage.
Conclusion: The number of female sex workers estimated in this study is considerable, which highlights the importance of planning harm reduction interventions in order to alleviate the burden of HIV infection in the population.
Production of Oligosaccharides from Pine Nut Shells by Autohydrolysis
Authors: Torrado Ivone , Dionísio Ana , Fernandes Maria C. , Roseiro Luísa Bivar , Carvalheiro Florbela , Pereira Helena , Duarte Luís C.
Published: December 2022

Pinus pinea nuts are commercial relevant Mediterranean edible forest nuts, whose industrial processing yields a lignocellulosic by-product, the shells (PNS), currently only used for combustion. This work aims at its integrated upgrade within the biorefinery framework. Autohydrolysis was explored in the temperature range between 150 and 230 ºC (corresponding to severity factors 2.13–4.63). Oligosaccharides, mainly xylo-oligosaccharides (95% of the total), were the key soluble products, reaching 28.74 g/100 g of xylan of the feedstock at the optimal conditions (log R0 4.01). Other products were monosaccharides and phenolic compounds, that reached 7.8 and 4.7 g/L, respectively, under the most severe conditions. The stability of the oligosaccharides at room temperature, 37º and 100°C and in the pH range between 1 and 11, grant them significant market potential in the food and pharma sectors. Pre-treated PNS presented an improved, but yet low, enzymatic digestibility (14%), and an improved high-heating value.
The Impact of Utilizing Inclusive Leadership on Nurses during Crises: A Multisite Comparative Study
Authors: Abualruz Hasan , El-Gazar Heba , Al-Ghabeesh Suhair , Tabar Nazih Abu , Alshariah Hussein , Abousoliman Ali
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Nurses' psychological wellness and satisfactionare threatened by the exposure to many stressors that have been increased during the COVID 19 pandemic. Adopting a promising leadership style have beneficiary impacts at different levels, especially during crises.
Objective:The study aimed to examine the impact of utilizing inclusive leadership on nurses' satisfaction and psychological distress during the COVID 19 pandemic in three Arabic countries.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was utilized to meet the study goal. Data were collected electronically in the three countries by adoptingKessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Carmel's inclusive Leadership Scale.A total of 274 participants fully responded: 90 from Egypt, 82 from Saudi Arabia, and 102 from Jordan. Descriptive statistics, Pearson R, Spearman Rho, Point biserial, and ANOVA tests were used to answer the research questions.
Results:Statistically significant differences in inclusive leadership and psychological distress means between countries were found. Statistically significant relationships between inclusive leadership, psychological distress, and job satisfaction were found as well.
Conclusion: Thestudy focused onthe importance of approaching inclusive leadership to increase employees' satisfaction, reduce psychological distress, and achieve organizational goals.
Self-perceived stress and job satisfaction among Lebanese dentist
Authors: DAOU Maha , Jaoude Samar Abou , Khazaka Sara
Published: December 2022

Background.
Dentists face numerous daily pressure that can lead to stress, as are most people who work in the health care field.
Objectives.
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of stress among a sample of Lebanese dentists to understand their probable causes and propose solutions to reduce their occurrence.
Material and methods.
A total of 314 Lebanese dentists, who practiced different specialties of dentistry, after giving verbal consent, completed an anonymous questionnaire that focused on occupational health problem. This study was approved by the ethics committee of Saint-Joseph University (USJ) of Beirut, Lebanon. The statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software for Windows. The alpha error was set to 0.05.
Results.
The mean age of the participants was 39.2 (± 11.66) years (58.6% male). The results showed that 90.8% (n = 285) were satisfied with their work, 23.2% (n = 73) had sleep disorders, 21.3% (n = 67) of Lebanese dentists have relationship problems with dental technician, 14% (n = 44) Lebanese dentists have misunderstanding with the assistant, 42.7% (n = 134) had concerns related to work accident, 5.7% (n = 18) are dealing with aggressive patient, 51.9% (n = 163) had payment issue, 3.8% (n = 12) have unsatisfied patients, 24.8% (n = 78) have anxious patients while 14% (n = 44) had financial concerns.
Conclusions.
Our findings indicate a potential stress of Lebanese dentists, for that we must encourage them to practice sport, cultural and outdoor activities, improve their quality of sleep. In addition, preventive programs should be initiated to help professionals to cope with their professional duties without hazardous effects on their mental health.
Comparison of video laryngoscope, video stylet, and flexible videoscope for transoral endotracheal intubation in patients with difficult airways: A randomized, parallel-group study
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhao Kaiyuan , Cheng Xiangxiang , Zhang Ping , Hu Huizhong , Zhang Guanglei , Li Renhu
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND: According to the 2022 American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) guidelines on difficult airway management, video laryngoscope, video stylet, and flexible videoscope are recommended for intubation of complex difficult airways. Here we compare the advantages of three airway devices when intubating patients with difficult airways.
METHODS: For a comparative study on transoral intubation, 170 patients were selected and randomized into the following three groups: the video laryngoscope group (Group VL, n=59), video stylet group (Group VS, n=59), and flexible videoscope group (Group FV, n=59). The success rate of the first-pass intubation, time of tracheal intubation, level of glottic exposure and occurrence of intubation-related adverse events were recorded and analyzed.
RESULTS: A total of 177 patients were enrolled, 59 of whom were randomized to each group. All patients were successfully intubated with three devices. The first-pass intubation success rate was significantly higher in Groups VS and FV than in Group VL (96.61% vs. 93.22% vs. 83.05%, P<0.01), but the difference in the first-pass intubation success rate between Groups VS and FV was not significant(P>0.05). The number of patients categorized as Wilson-Cormack-Lehane(W-C-L) class I-II was lower in Group VL than in Groups VS and FV (77.97% vs. 98.30% vs. 100%, P=0.0281). The mean time to intubation was 44.56 ± 4.42 seconds in Group VL, 26.88 ± 4.51 seconds in the Group VS and 95.20 ± 4.01 seconds in Group FV, and the time to tracheal intubation was significantly longer in Group FV than in Groups VL and VS. Obviously, the Group VS had a significant advantage in intubation time (P < 0.01). No significant differences were found among the three groups in terms of adverse intubation reactions (P > 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: In patients with difficult airways requiring intubation, use of the video stylet has the advantage of a relatively shorter intubation time, and the flexible videoscope and video stylet yield a higher first-pass intubation success rate and clearer glottic exposure than the use of the video laryngoscope.
Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. No: ChiCTR2200061560. Prospective registration.
The relationship between dietary patterns and blood mineral concentration among children in Hunan Province of China.
Authors: Yin Xiaochen , Wang Weifeng , Li Zimin , Duan Yujie , Chen Ming , Wu Yuanni , Hu Yuming
Published: December 2022

Background Minerals play important biological roles in metabolism. They are mainly absorbed from the diet and therefore, different dietary patterns may relate to blood mineral levels. The objective was to verify associations between dietary patterns and the blood concentration of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. Methods 380 healthy children (53.7% male) were recruited in a region of Hunan Province in September 2019. Basic information and anthropometric indices were recorded, and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was completed. Dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis (PCA). The blood levels of minerals were analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Linear regression models were used to examine whether specific dietary patterns are associated with the concentration of minerals. Results Three dietary patterns were identified, namely, ‘Health-conscious’, ‘Snacks/Beverages’, and ‘Cereal/Beans’. Children from high-income families (annual average income > 50000 yuan) prefer the ‘Health-conscious’ dietary pattern (P = 0.004), while those from low-income families (annual average income < 20000 yuan) prefer the ‘Snacks/Beverages’ dietary pattern (P = 0.03). Following adjustment for age, gender, guardian’s identity, education level, and annual household income. We found that an increase in the ‘Health-conscious’ pattern score (β = 0.153, CI: 0.053 ~ 0.253;P = 0.003) and ‘Snacks/Beverages’ pattern score (β = 0.103, CI: 0.002 ~ 0.204;P = 0.033) were significantly associated blood copper concentration. Conclusions Household income was found to be associated with dietary behavior. Furthermore, higher blood copper concentration was significantly correlated with the ‘Health-conscious’ dietary pattern and ‘Snacks/Beverages’ dietary pattern, but the correlation is extremely low.
Visual conscious awareness depends on a temporary filter based on representational similarity
Authors: Tang Matthew , Shapiro Kimron , Enns James , Visser Troy , Mattingley Jason , Arabzadeh Ehsan
Published: December 2022

Our visual perception seems effortless, but the brain has a limited processing capacity which curtails the amount of sensory information that can be brought into conscious awareness at any moment in time. A widely studied exemplar of this limitation is the ‘attentional blink’ (AB), in which observers are unable to report the second of two rapidly sequential targets if it appears within 200-500 ms of the first. Despite the apparent ubiquity of the AB effect, its computational and neurophysiological underpinnings have remained elusive. Here we propose a simple computational model of temporal attention that unifies the AB with spatial and feature-based attention. We took a novel, integrative approach involving human psychophysics and functional brain imaging, along with neuronal recordings in mice to test this model. Specifically, we demonstrate that the AB only arises when visual targets have dissimilar representations in the brain but is absent when both targets have the same representation. Similarity in this context can be determined either by elementary features such as edge orientation, or by acquired, high-level factors such as numerical or alphabetical order. In this parsimonious model of the AB, attention to an initial target establishes a perceptual filter that is tuned to its unique representation in the brain. Subsequent items that match the filter remain available for conscious report, whereas those that do not match elude awareness altogether.
The effect of tracheal occlusion in congenital diaphragmatic hernia in the nitrofen rat lung explant model
Authors: Miyake Yuichiro , Tse Wai Hei , Wang Jia Qi , Leon Nolan , Mourin Muntahi , Patel Daywin , Aptekmann Arzu Ozturk , Yamataka Atsuyuki , Keijzer Richard
Published: December 2022

Purpose:
Here, we establish a tracheal occlusion (TO) model with rat lung explants in nitrofen-induced pulmonary hypoplasia in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).
Methods:
We extracted lungs from rats on embryonic day 18. We mimicked TO in the lung explants by tying the trachea. We assessed lung weight, morphometry, and abundance of Ki-67, Active caspase-3, and Prosurfactant Protein C (proSP-C) with immunofluorescence.
Results:
Lung weight was higher in TO+ than TO– on day 1. Abundance of Ki-67 was higher in TO+ than TO– (0.15 vs. 0.32, p=0.009 for day 1, 0.07 vs. 0.17, p=0.004 for day 2, 0.07 vs. 0.12, p=0.044 for day 3), and Active caspase-3 was higher in TO+ than TO– on day 2 and day 3 (0.04 vs. 0.03 p=0.669 for day 1, 0.03 vs. 0.13 p<0.001 for day 2, 0.04 vs. 0.17 p=0.008 for day3). However, proSP-C protein abundance was lower in TO+ than TO– (67.9 vs. 59.1 p=0.033 for day 1, 73.5 vs. 51.6 p=0.038 for day 2, 83.1 vs. 56.4 p=0.009 for day 3).
Conclusions:
The TO model in lung explants mimics the outcomes of current surgical models of TO and further studies can reveal the cellular and molecular effects of TO in CDH lungs.
Invasion strategies and establishment of Ceratium dinoflagellate in subtropical watersheds of Southern Brazil and its interaction with Microcystis cyanobacteria: I. Hydrographic Region of Uruguay
Authors: Silva Ruan Dutra da , Müller Carla Cristine , Scherer Karen Dornelles , Rosa Luana Morais da , Frizzo Juliana Karl , Cardoso Luciana de Souza
Published: December 2022

Ceratium furcoides is a dinoflagellate that exhibits invasive behavior in aquatic ecosystems of Southern Brazil. Because of this, the study had as objectives to determine the factors that drive dinoflagellate populations as well as identifying temporal and spatial patterns of these populations, relating to Microcystis and propose actions against the invasion and establishment of Ceratium. Data (physical and chemical water and phytoplankton density) came from the monitoring carried out by CORSAN (Riograndense Sanitation Company), in reservoirs in the Hydrographic Region (HR) of Uruguay, from 2013 to 2019 (weekly to monthly sampling); climatic data were obtained through INMET (National Meteorological Institute). Seasonally, maximum precipitation occurred in autumn and spring, temperatures followed a subtropical pattern. Regarding phytoplankton, maximum density occurred in autumn and summer, in 2018 and 2013 (except Ceratium, with maximum in 2014). The analysis indicated that the highest values of density of phytoplankton, cyanobacteria, and Microcystis occurred in U20 basin, in Erechim (autumn 2018) and Passo Fundo (summer 2013); Ceratium peaks were found at U70 in Dom Pedrito (summer 2014) and U80 in Aceguá (autumn 2015). Usually, the populations of dinoflagellate and Microcystis did tend to stabilization, however showed classic relations, such as competition and coexistence, and dominance of the dinoflagellate. The results suggest that local environmental characteristics (temperature, phosphorus, nitrate, organic matter, pH) are key for the development of C. furcoides in this HR, and as is in an environment susceptible to its invasion, studies like this are important in understanding and eventually combating species with this character.
Post-feeding molecular responses of cobia (Rachycentron canadum): RNA-sequencing as a tool to evaluate postprandial effects in hepatic lipid metabolism
Authors: Araújo Bruno C. , Barbosa David A. , Honji Renato M. , Branco Giovana S. , Menegidio Fabiano B. , Marques Victor H. , Moreira Renata G. , Kitahara Marcelo V. , Rombenso Artur N. , de Mello Paulo H. , Hilsdorf Alexandre W.S.
Published: December 2022

We used transcriptome sequencing to investigate the hepatic postprandial responses of Rachycentron canadum (cobia), an important commercial fish species. In total, 150 cobia juveniles (50 per tank, triplicate) were fed ad libitum with a commercial diet for 7 days, fasted for 24 h and fed for 10 min. Liver samples were sampled 10 min before and 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h after the feed event. Posteriorly, it was evaluated liver fatty acid profile, transcriptome sequencing, and differential gene expression focusing on fatty acid synthesis and oxidation pathways. In general, liver fatty acid profile reflected the diet composition. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) levels increased at 8 to 12 h and decreased at 24 h after the feed event. It was observed a high number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) comparing fish fasted by 8 h with those fasted by 30 min and 24 h, while a reduced number of DEGs was observed comparing individuals fasted by 30 min compared with those fasted by 24 h. Similarly, the main differences in the expression of genes related to the fatty acid biosynthesis and oxidation pathways were noticed in individuals fasted by 8 h compared with those fasted by 30 min and 24 h. The results suggested that the adequate time to sample the individuals ranged between 8 and 12 h after meal, since apparently, after 24 h, differential gene expression was not necessarily influenced by feed intake.
Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT 2 R) activation prevents the loss of megalin in the kidney and the onset of proteinuria in high salt fed rats
Authors: Kulkarni Kalyani , Patel Sanket , Ali Riyasat , Hussain Tahir
Published: December 2022

Proteinuria is a risk factor for and consequence of kidney injury. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) is an emerging reno-protective target and is anti-proteinuric under pathological conditions, including high salt-fed obese animals. However, the mechanisms remain unknown, particularly whether the anti-proteinuric activity of AT2R is independent of its anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, obese Zucker rats were fed high sodium (4%) diet (HSD) for 48 hours, a time in which blood pressure does not change. HSD caused proteinuria without affecting glomerular slit diaphragm proteins (nephrin and podocin), glomerular filtration rate and inflammatory (TNFα, IL-6, and TGF-β), ruling out glomerular injury and inflammation but indicating tubular mechanisms of proteinuria. At cellular and molecular levels, we observed a glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β-mediated megalin phosphorylation, and its subsequent endocytosis and lysosomal degradation in HSD-fed rat kidneys. Megalin is a major proximal tubular endocytic protein transporter. The AT2R agonist C21 (0.3 mg/kg/day, i.p.) administration prevented proteinuria and rescued megalin surface expression potentially by activating Akt-mediated phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK-3β in HSD-fed rat kidneys. Overall, AT2R has a direct anti-proteinuric activity, potentially via megalin regulation, and is suggested as a novel target to limit kidney injury.
Detection of lung cancer using modified co-learning technique based on ten Convolutional Neural Network models in PET/CT image
Authors: R Kishore , R Suresh babu
Published: December 2022

Background: A proposed Lung Cancer Detection System (LCDS) lacks sensitivity and accuracy due to low spatial resolution in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) image and low contrast in Computed Tomography (CT) image.
Method: Such an issue has been resolved by creating a modified co-learning learning technique which will be based on ten Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) (Alexnet, Vgg16, Vgg19, Squeezenet, Googlenet, Inceptionv3, Mobilenetv2, Densenet201, Resnet18, Xception) models. This technique encodes modality specific features and utilizes them to acquire a spatially varying fusion map. These fusion maps are multiplied using modality feature map for an utilization of image analysis.
Result: By the use of modified co-learning technique, this system attained (Densenet201) 97.3% sensitivity, 98.2% accuracy and 1.6 false positives per scan in PET/CT.
Conclusion: A proposed LCDS attained tremendously minimum false positive rate and it is a promising technique in support of cancerous recognition due to improved sensitivity and accuracy.
WITHDRAWN: A Comparative Study of Life-Years Lost Attributable to Air Particulate Matter in Asia-Pacific and European Countries in 2019
Authors: Somboonsin Pattheera , Vardoulakis Sotiris , Canudas-Romo Vladimir
Published: December 2022

Air particulate matter (PM) and its harmful effects on human
health are of great concern globally due to all-cause and
cause-specific mortality impacts across different population
groups. This study has three aims: (1) to investigate life-years
lost (LYL) attributable to PM by causes of death; (2) to assess LYL
across different socio-demographic index (SDI) countries; and (3)
to compare LYL due to PM between Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Europe.
The data used comefrom IHME and Health Effects Institute. Our
results showthat average LYL due to PM in APAC was greater than in
Europe, with some Island countries particularly affected by the
exposure to household air pollution (HAP). Three quarters of LYL
came from premature deaths by ischemic heart disease and stroke, in
both continents. There were significant differences between SDI
groups for causes of death due to ambient PM and HAP. Our findings
call for urgent improvement of clean air to reduce indoor and
outdoor air pollution-related mortality.
Influencing Factors Analysis of Adaptability of Cancer Patients to Return-to-work
Authors: Li Jia-mei , Su Xiao-qin , Xue Ping , Guo Yu-jie
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To clarify the adaptability of cancer patients to return to work and explore its influencing factors.

Design:

A cross-sectional study

Settings/participants:

From March to October 2021, 283 cancer patients in the follow-up period were recruited from the oncology departments of four secondary and above hospitals and cancer friendship associations in Nantong city using self-developed scale of adaptability to return to work for cancer patients by convenience sampling method.

Methods

The contents included general sociodemographic data, disease-related data, cancer patients' readability to work Scale, Medical Coping Style Questionnaire, Social Support Rating Scale, Family Closeness and Readability Scale, General self-efficacy Scale and Social impact Scale. Paper questionnaires were used for face-to-face data collection, and SPSS17.0 was used for statistical analysis. Univariable analyses and multiple linear regression analysis were conducted.

Results

The overall score of cancer patients' adaptability to return to work was (87.05 ± 20.255), (22.54 ± 4.234) for the dimension of focused rehabilitation, (32.02 ± 9.013) for the dimension of reconstruction effectiveness, and (32.49 ± 9.023) for the dimension of adjustment planning. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the current return to full-time work (β = 0.226, P 0.05), the current return to non-full-time work (β = 0.184, P 0.05), yield response (β = -0.132, P 0.05), and general self-efficacy (β = 0.226, P 0.05) could affect their return to work adaptation.

Conclusion

The results of status quo and influencing factors showed that the adaptability of cancer patients to return to work was generally higher in this study. Patients who had returned to work, had lower yield coping score and higher general self-efficacy had better adaptability to return to work.

Ethical approval

It has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University (Project No.202065)
IVUS-guided zero-contrast percutaneous coronary intervention with rotational atherectomy: a case report
Authors: Stajic Zoran , Milicevic Dusan , Neskovic Aleksandar N. , Jagic Nikola
Published: December 2022

We hereby presented a case of absolute zero-contrast IVUS-guided PCI with rotational atherectomy of heavily calcified left circumflex stenosis in a patient with previous episode of CI-AKI. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of zero-contrast IVUS-guided PCI based on previously 6-month old coronary angiogram, considering the fact that the patient has had a previous episode of CI-AKI and did not have any coronary event in the meantime.
Prospective Observational Study on Clinical and Epidemiological Profile of Adult Patients Presenting to the Emergency Medicine department with Upper Gastrointestinal Bleed
Authors: Raj Alok , Kaeley Nidhi , Prasad Hari , Patnaik Itish , Bahurupi Yogesh , Joshi Shrirang , Shukla Krishna , Galagali Santosh , Patel Sanket
Published: December 2022

Background and objective

Bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract is one of the common medical emergencies. In this study, we assessed patients' socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and the association of clinical characteristics with treatment outcomes among patients with upper gastrointestinal bleed (UGIB) presenting to the emergency medicine department. At present, there is a scarcity of data on upper GI bleed in Northern part of India.

Material and method

The study was a single-center, prospective observational study conducted at an urban tertiary care center. Consecutive patients with UGIB were enrolled in the study from August 2020 to February 2022. A detailed history was obtained, including demographic data such as age and sex, presenting complaints, history of presenting illness, history related to co-morbidities, addiction, and drug history. Pre-endoscopic Rockall and Glasgow-Blatchford Score were calculated for each patient. The patients were subsequently followed up till discharge from the hospital. The final outcomes with regard to mortality, need for blood transfusion, length of emergency department (ED), and hospital stay and discharge were noted.

Result

141 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients with UGIB was 48.62 ± 14.63 years. 115(81.6%) patients were male compared to 26(18.4%) Females. The most common co-morbidity was chronic liver disease (40;28.4%). The most frequent presenting complaint in this study was hematemesis (96; 68.1%), followed by melena (76;53.9%). The mean (SD) of the Rockall Score was 2.46 ± 1.75. The mean (SD) of the Glasgow Blatchford Score was 12.46 ± 3.15 in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleed.

Conclusion

In our study, hematemesis was the most prevalent symptom of an upper GI bleed, followed by melena. Portal hypertension was the more common cause of upper GI bleed. Alcohol intake, NSAIDs abuse, and co-morbidities such as underlying chronic liver disease, hypertension, and diabetes are independent risk factors in patients with upper GI bleed. Early upper GI endoscopy can lower the morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay in patients with upper GI bleed.
Effects of Saline Soil Characteristics on Plant Growth Environment in Cultivated Depth of the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Qin Peng , Liu Zihao , Luan Yiquan , Liu Chuanxiao
Published: December 2022

This study combines the soil salinity determination, pH determination, ion content determination, particle size distribution (PSD), X-ray diffraction and Mercury intrusion Porosimetry (MIP) were used to quantitatively analyze the characteristics of saline-alkali soil within the cultivation depth of the Yellow River Delta, to explore the influence of the characteristics of saline-alkali soil in the coastal area on the plant growth environment. The results showed that the salinity content of surface saline-alkali soil in the Yellow River Delta was as high as 11.39 g/kg, which was 10 times higher than that of normal soil. The extremely high salinity affected plant growth through direct and indirect salinity damage. Soil pH, ion content, soil texture and mineral composition all affect plant growth. In the coastal saline-alkali soil of the Yellow River Delta, 98% of pores are inactive pores and capillary pores with a pore size of 0.1 to 10 and the pore distribution is regular. The study on the characteristics of saline-alkali soil in the Yellow River Delta can analyze the effects of saline-alkali soil on plant growth environment from physical, chemical and microscopic properties, and is of great significance to the treatment of saline-alkali soil in coastal areas.
AMPK Activation Improves Recovery from Pneumonia-Induced Lung Injury via Reduction of ER-Stress and Apoptosis in Alveolar Epithelial Cells
Authors: Becker Eugene , Husain Maroof , Bone Nathaniel , Smith Samuel , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W.
Published: December 2022

Background
Bacterial pneumonia and related lung injury are among the most frequent causes of mortality in intensive care units, but also inflict serious and prolonged respiratory complications among survivors. Given that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a hallmark of sepsis-related alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) dysfunction, we tested if AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) affects recovery from ER stress and apoptosis of AECs during post-bacterial infection.
Methods
In a murine model of lung injury by P. aeruginosa non-lethal infection, therapeutic interventions included AMPK activator metformin or GSK-3β inhibitor Tideglusib for 96 hours. Recovery from AEC injury was evidenced by accumulation of soluble T-1α (AEC Type 1 marker) in BAL fluids along with fluorescence analysis of ER-stress (CHOP) and apoptosis (TUNEL) in lung sections. AMPK phosphorylation status was determined via Immunoblot analysis from lung homogenates. Macrophage-dependent clearance of apoptotic cells was determined using flow cytometry assay.
Results
P. aeruginosa-induced lung injury resulted in accumulation of neutrophils and cellular debris in the alveolar space along with persistent (96 hours) ER-stress and apoptosis of AECs. While lung infection triggered AMPK inactivation (de-phosphorylation of Thr172-AMPK), metformin and Tideglusib promptly restored the AMPK activation status. In post infected mice, AMPK activation reduced indices of lung injury, ER stress and related apoptosis of AECs, as early as 24 hours post administration of AMPK activators. In addition, we demonstrate that the extent of apoptotic cell accumulation is also dependent on AMPK-mediated clearance of apoptotic cells by macrophages.
Conclusions
Our study provides important insights into AMPK function in the preservation of AEC viability after bacterial infection, in particular due reduction of ER-stress and apoptosis, thereby promoting effective recovery from lung injury after pneumonia.
The overexpression of ATPS1 gene, a homodimeric enzyme involved in sulfur assimilation, confers Fe-deficient tolerance in Malus halliana
Authors: Cheng Jiao , Zhang Zhongxing , Gao Yanlong , Dong Yongjuan , Xian Xulin , Li Cailong , Ding Liang , Wang Yanxiu
Published: December 2022

Iron (Fe) deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies limiting crop production globally, especially in arid regions because of decreased availability of iron in alkaline soils. S supply increases Fe availability to plants, ATP sulphatase plays an important role in the synthesis of organic sulfur in plants, which is considered to be an important rate-limiting enzyme in sulphur uptake. However, the mechanism of whether it responds to Fe deficiency in plants remains unclear. Here, we identified a ATP sulphatase gene MhATPS1 from Malus hallinan based on qRT-PCR and then genetically transformed it into tobacco and apple calli, which showed that transgenic tobacco and overexpressed apple calli secreted more H+ content compared to the wild type (WT), resulting in increased inter-root acidification. In addition, the transgenic tobacco and apple calli showed better growth under Fe deficiency conditions. Furthermore, increased Fe2+ content and ferric chelate reductase (FCR) activity in the transgenic tobacco and overexpressed calli indicated improved Fe uptake, which is also confirmed by up-regulation of Fe uptake genes, e.g. FRO2, IRT1, FER and FIT. Under Fe deficiency stress, having more strengthened antioxidant capacity in transgenic tobacco, and the same results were shown in overexpressed apple calli. At last, the NBT and DAB staining results also verified the greater scavenging capacity of reactive oxygen species in transgenic tobacco. In summary, the MhATPS1 gene may play a positive role in Fe deficiency stress both tobacco and apple calli.
Cloud Computing and Security in Virtualization Platform
Authors: Shaan Shaan Ishfar Ann , Rumi Masba Uddin Rumi , Anik Anik Dutta , Rubayet Md. Rubayet Hasan , Alauddin Md Alauddin Mazumder
Published: December 2022

Despite of fast advancements in the field of cloud computing, still security is one of the primary barriers to cloud computing adoption. Security as well as effective management of data center are also major concerns. Because virtualization is a basic technology for cloud computing, any cloud vulnerabilities and threats have an impact on virtualization. This paper proposes a secured data center design with cloud virtualization that offers user end protection. It also incorporates the load balancing feature, microservice with containerization and storage management with scalability. Moreover, this paper will also focus on managing the cloud data center effectively and eliminating inside and outside attacks by using zero trust security model. The proposed design ensures disaster recovery, data redundancy, and high availability of data. Access for the militarized and demilitarized zones are filtered to enhance the security of the data center. All the components used in the design of the data center are described elaborately. This design will overcome the current challenges that the industry is facing.
Increased risk of arrhythmias in active acromegaly with complications and persistent uncontrolled active acromegaly
Authors: Fang Qiuyue , Liu Yulou , Li Chuzhong , Gui Songbai , Zhang Yazhuo
Published: December 2022

Objective: Previous studies showed acromegaly have significant higher prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias and often complicated by diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT). Both HT and DM are notoriously associated with the development of arrhythmias. However, the effect of complication (DM and/or HT) in acromegaly on ventricular arrhythmias and the risk of ventricular arrhythmias in acromegaly accept therapy but no control is largely unknown.
Methods: A cross-sectional study with 307 acromegaly and 303 patients with non-functional pituitary adenoma as control group. All subjects were divided into acromegaly with/without complication and controls with/without complication. In the longitudinal study, 30 persistent uncontrolled active acromegaly with at least three months follow-up. Electrocardiographic Measurements, laboratory examination, and clinical data collection were performed in all subjects. QT interval corrected for heart rate (QTc) was analyzed among groups.
Results: QTc in acromegaly population significantly increased compared to controls (p<0.001). Factorial design two-way ANOVA correcting age revealed significant main effects of complication (p=0.016) and acromegaly (p<0.0001), as well as positive interactions between complication and acromegaly (P<0.038) on QTc. Persistent uncontrolled active acromegalic patients after therapy showed QTc significantly increase in follow-up relative to pre-treatment (p<0.0001). The normalized GH level (r=0.11, p<0.05) and complication (r=0.25, p<0.0001) have a significant positive correlation with QTc in acromegaly.
Conclusions: Acromegaly is an independent risk factor for ventricular arrhythmias and acromegaly with complication have an elevated risk for ventricular arrhythmia. Persistent uncontrolled acromegaly, who have significantly decreased in serum GH/IGF-1 levels relative to pre-treatment, also enhance the risk of ventricular arrhythmia.
Intravenous injection of allogenic canine mesenchymal stem cells in 40 dogs: A safety assessment in veterinary clinical trials
Authors: Cho Hee-Seon , Song Woo-Jin , Li Qiang , An Ju-Hyun , Park Su-Min , Nam Aryung , Ahn Jin-Ok , Youn Hwa-Young
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the adverse effects of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplanted via intravenous infusion in dogs and examine their long-term safety, including tumorigenesis. This study conducted a retrospective analysis of various clinical assessments, including physical examination, blood tests, and radiographs, and monitored the formation of neoplasms during a 6-month follow-up period in 40 client-owned dogs that received intravenous infusion of adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) for the treatment of various underlying diseases between 2012 and 2018. No significant adverse effects of MSC therapy were detected by clinical assessment, blood tests, or radiographic examination in the 6-month follow-up period after the first MSC treatment. Additionally no new neoplasms were observed during this period. This study is the first to evaluate the long-term (≥ 6 month) safety aspects and risk of tumorigenesis for intravenous allogenic AT-MSC infusion. These results suggest that allogenic AT-MSC infusion can be relatively safe therapeutic approach in dogs.
Research on the relative characteristics of the application of relative criterion
Authors: Liu Jingang
Published: December 2022

Based on the mathematical quantification principle of the relative criterion idea of discrete quantity system, this paper studies the relative characteristics of the application of the relative criterion idea, and summarizes the relative characteristics of the relative group, time and space. Relative characteristics are inherent and ubiquitous in the application of relative criterion ideas to solve problems. In solving the simple and basic problems, the relative characteristics of different conclusions from the traditional thought show that the cognitive standard of the traditional thought is not an objective standard. It is accidental to use subjective absolute standards to solve objective problems and get correct results, not inevitable. In this paper, the theoretical basis of the relative characteristics is clarified by means of the theoretical formula of the relative criterion, and the different types of relative characteristics are illustrated by three examples. In order to clarify the application method of the relative criterion formula, the calculation process is given. The idea of relative criterion makes people re recognize the importance of standards and other relativity and objectivity. The formula of relative criterion theory lays a theoretical foundation for correctly solving practical problems.
Surface texturing of cutting inserts for turning of aluminium
Authors: Meliani Hasnaa , Gilbin Alexandre , Fontaine Michaël , Assoul Mohamed , Monteil Guy
Published: December 2022

This paper presents wet machining of wrought aluminium alloys with textured and non-textured tools. To improve the machining performance, textures were produced on rake face of uncoated cemented carbide by using femtosecond laser machining. Experiments were conducted on a computer numerical controlled lathe with each textured tool and then compared to conventional cutting tool. To evaluate the cutting performance of tested tools, the following criteria were considered: cutting forces evolution, rake face wear, flank face wear and chip formation. A significant decrease of flank wear about 90% is observed with textured tools with nanometric Laser Induced Periodical Surface Structures (LIPSS) and of 80% with double-scale structure (LIPSS + Dimples). Double-scale structured tool presents a lower cutting force in comparison with conventional cutting tool. An increase of shear angle value with tool textured with micrometric structure (Lines) is observed. A lower height of adhesion on rake face of the tool with LIPSS compared to other tested tools is found too. These results constitute another step in the purpose to design a new generation of tools for precision turning of aluminium alloys.
Factors associated with benefit finding in patients with lung cancer: a structural equation model analysis
Authors: Chen Chen , Chen Wen , Gu Hang , Wang Zheyun , Su Yunyan , Zhu Pingting
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to test a hypothesized model of benefit finding (BF) of patients with lung cancer to explore how resilience, social support and coping affect BF.
Methods: 301 lung cancer patients hospitalized in two tertiary hospitals in Jiangsu pronvice were selected by convenient sampling method from July 2020 to February 2021. General information questionnaire, benefit finding scale, the Connor-Davidson resilience scale, social support rating scale and medical coping modes questionnaire were used to conduct in the investigation. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the effects of related factors on BF.
Results: The fit index of the hypothesized model was satisfactory. Resilience, social support, confrontation coping and acceptance-resignation coping had direct effects on BF. Moreover, social support had an indirect effect on BF through resilience, confrontation coping, acceptance-resignation coping and resilience-acceptance coping, resilience also had an indirect effect on BF through acceptance coping.
Conclusions: our results showed that the level of BF of lung cancer patients is low. Based on the results of model, medical staff should help them make good use of the social support system, enhance their resilience, correctly recognize the disease and face it positively, so as to improve the level of patients' BF and improve their quality of life.
Effects of Palladium Precursors on the Activity and Stability of Pd Catalysts for the Oxidation of Volatile Organic Components (VOCs)
Authors: Li Qingtao , Cai Qi , Li Xiaoyun , Han Enshan , Sun Yanmin , Cai Zhe , Lu Yanfei , Yu Haibin
Published: December 2022

To screen a suitable precursor, the effects of palladium salts on performance of Pd catalysts for the oxidation of volatile organic components (VOCs) were investigated. A series of catalysts were prepared by impregnating different palladium salts on alumina-coated cordierite. These catalysts were characterized by XRF, ICP, XRD, N2 adsorption-desorption, TEM, EDS Mapping, Raman spectroscopy, pulse-CO chemisorption, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD and XPS. Pulse-CO chemisorption and TEM showed that Pd species formed by Pd(NO3)2 have the highest metal dispersion, while the other two are aggregating. H2-TPR and XPS results showed that the catalyst prepared by Pd(NO3)2 has the most active sites. The catalytic oxidation activities of these catalysts were evaluated by ethane and propane. And the catalyst performed the best activity for ethane and propane was prepared by Pd(NO3)2. The chloride species in precursors can promote the aggregation of Pd species and poison the catalysts. The results show that Pd(NO3)2 is more suitable as the precursor of VOCs catalytic oxidation catalyst than PdCl2 and Pd(NH3)4Cl2.
Morphodynamical cell-state description via live-cell imaging trajectory embedding
Authors: Copperman Jeremy , Gross Sean , Chang Young Hwan , Heiser Laura , Zuckerman Daniel
Published: December 2022

Time-lapse imaging is a powerful approach to gain insight into the dynamic responses of cells, but the quantitative analysis of morphological changes over time is a challenge. Here, we exploit the concept of "trajectory embedding" to analyze cellular behavior using morphological feature trajectory histories, i.e., multiple time points simultaneously, rather than the more common practice of examining morphological feature time courses in single timepoint (snapshot) morphological features. We apply this approach to analyze live-cell images of MCF10A mammary epithelial cells after treatment with a panel of microenvironmental perturbagens that strongly modulate cell motility, morphology, and cell cycle behavior. Our morphodynamical trajectory embedding analysis constructs a shared cell state landscape revealing ligand-specific regulation of cell state transitions and enabling quantitative and descriptive models of single-cell trajectories. Additionally, we show that incorporation of trajectories into single-cell morphological analysis enables (i) systematic characterization of cell state trajectories, (ii) better separation of phenotypes, and (iii) more descriptive models of ligand-induced differences as compared to snapshot-based analysis. This morphodynamical trajectory embedding is broadly applicable for the quantitative analysis of cell responses via live-cell imaging across many biological and biomedical applications.