bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Expression of Mitochondrial Autophagy-Related Gene FUNDC1 is Associated with Poor Prognosis of Colon Cancer and Defective Immune Cell Infiltration
Authors: Guo Yu , Shi Jian , Wang Shuang , Zhao Zeyun , Shang An , Li Donglin , Wang Min
Published: July 2021

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction is related to the occurrence and development of many diseases. FUNDC1 has attracted attention as a receptor related to mitochondrial autophagy. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer. This article uses bioinformatics analysis to study the relationship between FUNDC1 and immune cell infiltration and prognosis of colon cancer. Methods: The RNA sequencing data and detailed clinical prognostic information resources of 478 COAD samples in the TCGA database were included in the study. Two data sets (GSE37364, GSE110224) from the GEO database were selected for verification. Using Kaplan - Meier curves, univariate analysis and multivariate survival analysis to assess the relationship FUNDC1 level of expression and clinicopathological parameters and overall survival. The protein-protein interaction network of FUNDC1 was constructed by String and GeneMANIA databases. Screen the genes co-expressed with FUNDC1 in Oncomine and GEPIA. And use the TIMER database and GEPIA to explore the relationship between FUNDC1 and immune cell infiltration and surface markers. Results: FUNDC1 is obviously highly expressed in tumor samples and is related to the poor prognosis of patients. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that FUNDC1 was related to advanced TNM staging. FUNDC1 mainly interacts with mitochondrial autophagy-related proteins. FUNDC1 is related to immune infiltration and mainly affects CD8+ T cells and macrophages. Conclusion: The research has proved that FUNDC1 is closely related to the infiltration of tumor microenvironment immune cells in COAD samples and to the poor prognosis of COAD patients, which may provide new treatment ideas and targets.
Prognostic Significance of Metastatic Lymph Node Ratio in Patients with Gastric Cancer After Curative Gastrectomy: A Large sample, Single center Retrospective Study
Authors: He Zhipeng , Li Dongchang , Liu Siyu , Song Endong , Lu Yida , Zhang Zhigong , Chen Ke
Published: July 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic value of Metastatic lymph node ratio (MLNR) in patients with gastric cancer (GC) after curative gastrectomy and the potential for new indicators to strengthen the current guidelines.Methods:We retrospectively examined 3864 patients with GC who underwent curative gastrectomy between February 2011 and February 2016. Patients were classified into low-MLNR (L-MLNR), and high-MLNR (H-MLNR) groups according to adjusted X-tile cutoff-value of 0.25 for MLNR, and their clinicopathological characteristics and survival rates were compared.Results: Survival analysis indicated that MLNR was negatively associated with overall survival (OS) (P<0.001) and was an independent prognostic predictor in 3864 GC patients (P<0.001). Stratum analysis and univariate COX proportional hazards analysis were performed to validate the prognostic value of MLNR in various subgroups with clinicopathological characteristics (gender, age at surgery, tumor location, tumor size, type of gastrectomy, T stage, N stage, ELN, perineural invasion, vascular invasion, and TNM stage). MLNR is a prognostic indicator for patients with GC, regardless whether the number of lymph nodes examined is <16 or ≥16.Conclusions:The MLNR may become a new indicator for evaluating prognosis of patients with curative gastrectomy and complement the current guidelines.
Right Basal Ganglia Germinoma: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tian Pu , Zhang Hongbo , Liang Yaqian , Bian Bingyang , Xu Shujia , Li Dan
Published: July 2021

Background: Among intracranial germinomas, germinoma of basal ganglia has been rarely reported. We discuss a new case of basal ganglia germinoma(BGG) and perform the literature review over the last two decades, with the aim of emphasizing the diagnosis and treatment in early-stage BGG.Case presentation: A seven years old Chinese boy presented with 4 months history of left limb movement disorder and oblique right mouth corner. The human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG) level in cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) was slightly increased. Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) showed ipsilateral brain and brainstem atrophy. Susceptibility weighted imaging(SWI) revealed obvious hypointensity in right globus pallidus. Pathological diagnosis on biopsy was confirmed with germinoma. The patient had a favorable relief of symptoms after chemoradiotherapy.Conclusion: Intracranial germinoma, a potentially curable tumor, the early diagnosis is essential for the prognosis. An elevated HCG level of CSF or serum can be used as a reference indicator. MRI, especially SWI, plays an important role in early diagnosis. Patients should be treated with standardized chemoradiotherapy early rather than surgery.
Emotional Reactivity to Binge Food and Erotic Cues in Women With Bulimia Nervosa Symptoms
Authors: Hernández-Rivero Isabel , Blechert Jens , Miccoli Laura , Eichin Katharina Naomi , Fernández-Santaella M. Carmen , Rodríguez Rafael Delgado
Published: July 2021

Background: Studies on food cue reactivity have documented that altered responses to high-calorie food are associated with bulimic symptomatology, however, alterations in sexual motivations and behaviors are also associated clinical features for this population, which justify their inclusion as a research target. Here, we study responses to erotic cues – alongside neutral and aversive cues – to gain an understanding of specificity to food vs. a generalized sensitivity to primary reinforcers. Methods: We recorded peripheral psychophysiological indices –the startle reflex, zygomaticus, and corrugator responses– and self-reported emotional responses (valence, arousal, and dominance) in 75 women that were presented with the Spanish version of the Bulimia Test-Revised (BULIT-R). Multiple regression analysis tested whether BULIT-R symptoms were predicted by self-reported and psychophysiological responses to food vs. neutral and erotic vs. neutral images. Results: The results showed that individuals with higher bulimic symptoms were characterized by potentiated eye blink startle response during binge food (vs. neutral images) and more positive valence ratings during erotic (vs. neutral) cues. Conclusions: The results highlight the negative emotional reactivity of individuals with elevated bulimic symptoms toward food cues, which could be related to the risk of progression to full bulimia nervosa and thereby addressed in prevention efforts. Results also point to the potential role of reactivity to erotic content, at least on a subjective level. Theoretical models of eating disorders should widen their conceptual scope to consider reactivity to a broader spectrum of primary reinforcers, which would have implications for cue exposure-based treatments.
Marked Reductions in Pediatric Outpatient Antibiotic Prescribing in Portugal During the Pandemic
Authors: de Alarcão José Miguel Cunha , Gil Ana Teresa , Oliveiros Bárbara , Rodrigues Fernanda
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected effects on healthcare systems access and usage. Some of the measures implemented by governments to try and contain it, such as confinement periods, social distancing, widespread use of masks and other hygiene practices led to unprecedented epidemiological changes in several common infectious diseases.We describe changes in antibiotic prescribing in pediatric outpatients before and during the pandemic in a dynamic population analysis context during a study period of three years in mainland Portugal.There was a marked reduction in antimicrobial prescribing in all regions, particularly in younger children and during the lockdown periods.This reduction was much sharper for those antimicrobials most commonly used to treat respiratory-tract infections, as Amoxicillin (with and without β-lactamase inhibitor) and Macrolides, and considerable less accentuated in other commonly prescribed antibiotics as Co-Trimoxazole and Fosfomycin, usually associated with the treatment of urinary tract infections.Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic has had profound effects on antibiotic use in ambulatory care in children in Portugal.Further monitoring is necessary to ascertain whether this reduction in antibiotic prescription will persist and whether these changes may impact antimicrobial resistance.
A Stepwise Laboratory Manual for the Dissection and Illustration of Major Limbic Structures. Evidence from the Klingler’s Technique.
Authors: Komaitis Spyridon , Kalamatianos Theodosis , Drosos Evangelos , Kalyvas Aristotelis , Piagkou Maria , Troupis Theodore , Mazarakis Nektarios , Stranjalis George , Koutsarnakis Christos
Published: July 2021

OBJECTIVE: To provide an educational, comprehensive, systematic and stepwise manual for the dissection and illustration of major limbic structures since there is a gap in the pertinent literature. Further, we aim to offer a thorough yet simplified roadmap for laboratory and intraoperative dissections.METHODS: Twenty (20) normal adult, formalin-fixed cerebral hemispheres were studied through the fiber dissection technique and under the microscope. Stepwise and in tandem medial to lateral and lateral to medial dissections were performed in all specimens aiming to reveal the morphology and spatial relationships of major limbic and paralimbic areas RESULTS: Twelve (12) consecutive, discrete and easily reproducible laboratory anatomical steps are systematically described to reveal the intricate anatomy of the structures of the limbic system.CONCLUSION: Surgical approaches for lesions or functional resections in and around limbic areas pose a challenging task for the neurosurgeon. By employing the fiber dissection technique, we were able to provide a stepwise and thorough laboratory guide for the gradual dissection and better comprehension of the morphology and spatial relationships of this specific system. Anatomical manuals like the present study raise interest and enrich anatomical knowledge on complex cerebral areas with the overarching goal to inform surgical practice.
Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients With Stages I-III Colon Cancer Based on Seer Data
Authors: Zhao Fuqiang , Sun Ying , Ge Jie , Zheng Chunlei , Ning Kepeng , Zhao Jingying , Zhu Fangxu
Published: July 2021

Objective: This study analyzes the clinical features and prognosis of stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon cancer, and constructs a nomogram to predict the prognosis of patients. Methods: We included data from patients with stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon cancer confirmed by pathology after surgical treatment in the United States SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database from 2010-2015. The included patients are randomly divided into training cohorts and validation cohorts (ratio 1:1).The independent related factors of the prognosis of colon cancer patients were used to construct the nomogram and the web-based probability calculator.Concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve are used to evaluate the accuracy of the model. Results: After univariate and multivariate analysis, it was indicated that age, marital status, tumor grade, t-stage and n-stage were independent factors affecting prognosis of patients with stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon cancer. We built a nomogram and the web-based probability calculator based on this, and its C-index was 0.781 (95% CI: 0.77414–0.78786), and were superior to that of AJCC TNM Stage (C-index: 0.734, 95%CI: 0.72616–0.74184). The consistency test showed that the nomogram can effectively predict the prognosis of patients. The validation cohort confirms the reliability of the model. Conclusion: Age, marital status, tumor grade, t-stage and n-stage are independent factors affecting the prognosis of patients with stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon cancer. The nomogram we constructed in this way can better predict the prognosis of patients with stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon cancer.
Cancer-Secreted Exosomal HSPC111 Promotes Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis By Reprogramming Lipid Metabolism in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Zhang Chong , Wang Xiang-Yu , Zhang Peng , He Tao-Chen , Han Jia-Hao , Zhang Rui , Lin Jing , Fan Jie , Lu Lu , Zhu Wen-Wei , Jia Hu-Liang , Zhang Ju-Bo , Chen Jin-Hong
Published: July 2021

Background: Metastasis and metabolic deregulation are two of the major hallmarks of cancer. Recent studies have revealed the critical driving role of metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. However, little is known about the metabolic alterations of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the pre-metastatic niche and how these changes facilitate CRC metastasis.Methods: Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and Isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantitation (i-TRAQ) method were performed to identify the comparative metabolites and proteins expression in CAFs treated with exosomes derived from CRC cells, respectively. Tissue Microarray (TMA) was used to evaluate the level of HSPC111 in patient’s primary CRC tissues with or without liver metastasis. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), RNA-seq, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) migration and wound healing assay and immunofluorescence staining were employed to explore the expression regulation mechanism of exosomal HSPC111 in CAFs. Xenograft models were used to determine whether exosomal HSPC111 can remolding pre-metastatic niche of CAFs to promote CRC liver metastasis (CRLM) in vivo.Results: Here, we demonstrate that CRC cell-secreted exosomal HSPC111 induces a lipid metabolism reprogramming process in CAFs. Importantly, our results indicate that CRC patients with liver metastasis had significantly high level of HSPC111 in CRC tissues than CRC patients without liver metastasis. Mechanistically, HSPC111 upregulate the level of acetyl-CoA and histone acetylation by phosphorylating of ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY) in CAFs. This lipid metabolism reprogramming in CAFs facilitates CXCL5 secretion in vitro and pre-metastatic niche formation in the liver to promote CRLM in an exosomal HSPC111-dependent manner in vivo. In addition, conditioned medium (CM) from CAFs induce EMT of CRC cells by down-regulating E-cadherin levels and up-regulating Vimentin and Snail levels, which could be abolished by CXCL5-neutralizing antibody and CXCR2 inhibitor navarixin. Moreover, the HSPC111-ACLY association in CAFs was reinforced by CXCL5-CXCR2 axis, further promoting exosomal HSPC111 secretion from CRC cells to form a feedforward regulatory loop.Conclusion: Our present study reveals a novel insight into the pro-metastatic role of lipid metabolism reprogramming in CAFs and suggests the CXCL5-CXCR2 axis may be a promising target for halting CRLM.
QSOFA and SOFA scores are valuable tools for predicting postoperative sepsis resulting from ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL)
Authors: Laih Chun-Yo , Hsiao Po-Jen , Hsieh Po-Fan , Wang Yu-De , Lai Chun-Ming , Yang Chao-Tung , Lin Chu-Hsing , Huang Chi-Ping
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The SOFA and qSOFA scores are new tools which are used to assess sepsis based on the Third International Consensus Definitions for Sepsis and Septic Shock Task Force. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using the SOFA and qSOFA to predict post-ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) sepsis.
Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent URSL due to ureteral stone obstruction were retrospectively reviewed using SOFA and qSOFA scores. Patient characteristics including age, gender, comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists Classification (ASA), stone burden, stone location, hydronephrosis status, infectious status, preoperative SOFA and qSOFA score were collected. Preoperative factors were analyzed to determine if they were correlated with postoperative sepsis.
Results

A total of 830 patients were included in this study, of whom 32 (3.9%) had postoperative sepsis. Multivariate analysis revealed that older age, proximal ureteral stones, severe hydronephrosis, and high preoperative qSOFA or SOFA score were significantly associated with postoperative sepsis. The areas under the curves of a qSOFA score ≥ 1 and SOFA score ≥ 2 for predicting postoperative sepsis were 0.754 and 0.823, respectively.
Conclusions

Preoperative qSOFA and SOFA scores are convenient and effective for predicting post-URSL sepsis. Further preventive strategies should be performed in these high-risk patients.
A Study To Evaluate The Bioactivity Behavior And Electrical Properties of Hydroxyapatite/Ag2O-Borosilicate Glass Nanocomposites For Biomedical Applications
Authors: Alturki Asma M. , Abulyazied Dalia E. , Taha Mohammed , Abomostafa H. M. , Youness Rasha A.
Published: July 2021

The aim of this work is to prepare nanocomposites with excellent bioactivity and appropriate mechanical properties. In this regard, the nanocomposites, with different contents of borosilicate glass (BG) and carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA), were mixed and milled using a high-energy ball mill. Then, these milled powders were subjected to sintering at 750 ºC. In order to examine their phase composition, molecular structure and microstructure, X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively were used. Moreover, the DC electrical conductivity, and physical and mechanical properties of the prepared nanocomposites were also measured. In addition, the in vitro bioactivity of the sintered samples was evaluated using XRD and SEM. Unexpectedly; the results indicated that the successive increase in BG contents promoted the partial decomposition of CHA molecules at this lower sintering temperature. Also, it was responsible for the enhanced bioactivity behavior along with giving CHA better mechanical properties. However, the electrical conductivity of the examined samples exhibited an opposite trend where it decreased significantly with increasing BG content. According to the results obtained, the prepared samples are suitable for use in various biomedical applications.
Is Routine Chest X-ray After Ultrasound and Intracavitary Electrocardiogram Guided Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Insertion Choosing Wisely? A Population-based Retrospective Study of 2857 Patients With Cancer
Authors: Shen Yan-Fen , Dong Jing , Wang Xin-Peng , Wang Xiao-Zheng , Zheng Yuan-Yuan , Chen Jie , Wang Guo-dong
Published: July 2021

Background: In China, routine chest X-ray (CXR) is generally required for peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICC) to determine the position of the catheter tip. The aim of this study is to assess the value of a routine post-procedural CXR in the era of ultrasound and intracavitary electrocardiography(IC-ECG) -guided PICC insertion. Methods: A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted to review the clinical records of all patients who had PICCs in the Venous Access Center of Beijing Cancer Hospital between January 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. The incidence of catheter misplacement after insertion was measured. A logistic regression analysis was performed to examine potential risk factors associated with PICC-related complications and a cost analysis to assess the economic impact of the use of CXR.Results: There were 2,857 samples from 2,647 patients included. The overall incidence of intraoperative and postoperative catheter misplacement was 7.4% (n=210) and 0.67% (n=19), respectively. There was a high risk of postoperative catheter misplacement when the left-arm was chosen for placement (OR: 10.478; 95% CI: 3.467-31.670; p<0.001). The cost of performing CXR for screening of PICC-related complications was $23,808 per year, and that of using CXR to diagnose one case of catheter misplacement was $1253.Conclusion: This study confirms that misplacement of PICCs guided by ultrasound and IC-ECG is rare and that postoperative CXR is very costly. In our setting, routine postoperative CXR is unnecessary and not a wise option.
Low-Frequency Exercise Training Improves Cardiovascular Fitness and Strength During Treatment for Breast Cancer: A Single-Arm Intervention Study
Authors: Bell Kirsten , Pfeiffer Amanda , Schmidt Schuyler , Bos Lisa , Russell Caryl , Barnes Tyler , Sebastiano Katie Di , Avrutin Egor , Gibson Marielle , Dubin Joel , Mourtzakis Marina
Published: July 2021

Recent guidelines recommend exercising ≥ 3 times/week during and after cancer treatment, however treatment-specific barriers may inhibit adherence. We explored the effect of a flexible exercise program on fitness, body composition, and metabolism in a group of recently diagnosed breast cancer patients. Fifty-two females ≥ 18 years with stage I-IIIB breast cancer were instructed to target 2 cardiovascular and strength training sessions/week over 12 weeks, but program length was expanded as needed to accommodate missed sessions. Pre- and post-intervention, we measured: 1) cardiovascular fitness, 2) isometric strength, 3) body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), and 4) fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, and lipids. Pre-intervention, participants were 53 ± 10 years old (mean ± SD) and overweight (BMI: 27.5 ± 5.4 kg∙m− 2, 40.1 ± 6.5% body fat). Forty participants completed the program over a median 20 weeks (range: 13–32 weeks, median frequency: 1.2 sessions/week). Final workrate during a graded exercise test improved by 13% (10[5–15] W) (delta[95% CI]), and strength increased by 7–9% (right arm: 2.3[0.1–4.5] N∙m; right leg: 7.9[2.1–13.7] N∙m; left leg: 7.8[1.9–13.7] N∙m). Body composition and metabolic markers were unchanged. An exercise frequency of 1.2 sessions/week, while below recommendations, stimulated significant improvements in fitness, and may represent a more realistic target for patients during active treatment.
Reduction in Crosstalk Using Uniform Germanium Strips for Dense Integration of Photonic Waveguides
Authors: Chandra Veer , Kumar Dablu , Ranjan Rakesh
Published: July 2021

The requirement of low crosstalk between the neighboring waveguides should be considered essentially, in order to achieve the compact photonic integrated circuit (PIC), which includes photonic waveguides. Literature shows that the lower crosstalk can be realized by using the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) based waveguide, having an appropriate separation between them. The current work is focused on reducing the waveguide separation to further improve the photonic integration over the PICs. This has been achieved by inserting the germanium strips between the photonic waveguides. The investigations of the impact of variations in heights and widths of germanium strip have demonstrated that the crosstalk can be reduced by a significant amount, which provides noteworthy improvement in coupling length. The maximum coupling lengths of 81578 µm, 67099 µm, and 66810 µm have been achieved at their respective end-to-end separations of 300 nm, 250 nm, and 200 nm, and their corresponding minimum crosstalk values have been noted as -29.40 dB, -27.71 dB, and − 27.70 dB. Moreover, the analysis to realize the coupling length for Ge-strip, have been compared with the Si-, and SiN-strips. The approach presented in the current work can be utilized for the design of many compact photonic applications, such as polarization splitter, integrated photonic switches, etc.
Medical Image Detection & Privacy Management With Elliptic Curve GOPSO Cryptographic Optimization Technique on the Internet of Health Things
Authors: B Anthony Vincent , A Cecil Donald , Shanthan B J Hubert , Bist Ankur Singh , mehraj Haider , VijendraBabu D.
Published: July 2021

The advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) is to transform the health care sector and lead to the development of the Internet of Health Things (IoHT). This technology exceeds existing human services mechanically, financially, and socially. This paper used an advanced cryptographic framework that includes optimization strategies to look at IoHT medical image protection. The patient data kept on a cloud server which was detected and sensed from the IoHT Healthcare devices. It's critical to ensure the safety and privacy of patient clinical images in the cloud; here, an enhanced security framework for health information promotes trust. Next, we presented health care providers who could provide the full range of medical facilities for IoHT participants. In the process of encrypting/decrypting elliptical curves, the optimal key is selected using the Grasshopper Particle Swarm Optimization (GOPSO) to increase the security standard of medical images. Medical images are protected within IoHT by using this approach.The implementation results were analyzed and compared with a variety of encryption algorithms and their optimization techniques. The effectiveness of the proposed methods and the results show that the medical image is secure and prevents attacks in IoHT-based health care systems.
Identifying the Mechanisms of DO-scale Oscillations in a Gcm: a Salt Oscillator Triggered by the Laurentide Ice Sheet
Authors: Armstrong Edward , Izumi Kenji , Valdes Paul
Published: July 2021

The driver mechanisms of Dansgaard-Oeschger (DO) events remain uncertain, in part because many climate models do not show similar oscillatory behaviour. Here we present results from glacial simulations of the HadCM3B coupled atmosphere-ocean-vegetation model that show stochastic, quasi-periodical DO-scale variability. This variability is driven by variations in the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in response to North Atlantic salinity fluctuations. The mechanism represents a salt oscillator driven by the salinity gradient between the subtropical gyre and the Northern North Atlantic. Utilising a full set of model salinity diagnostics, we identify a complex ocean-atmosphere-sea-ice feedback mechanism that maintains this oscillator, driven by the interplay between surface freshwater fluxes (tropical P-E balance and sea-ice), advection, and convection. The key trigger is the extent of the Laurentide ice sheet, which alters atmospheric and ocean circulation patterns, highlighting the sensitivity of the climate system to land-ice extent. This, in addition to the background climate state, pushes the climate beyond a tipping point and into an oscillatory mode on a timescale comparable to the DO events.
Clinico-epidemiological spectrum of thyroid illness after salt iodination program in Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Arabinda Mohan , Pandeya Dipendra Raj , Parajuli Sulochana , Pradhananga Salina
Published: July 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Seismic Hazard Levels in Guinea, West Africa
Authors: Stephen A Irinyemi
Published: July 2021

The occurrence of seismic activities in Guinea is infrequent, although located in a stable continental region. The hazard assessment level in Guinea, West Africa was determined by a probabilistic approach for 10 sites across the region. The calculation was carried out for 10%, 2% and 0.5% probability of exceedance in 50 years using a homogenized 100-year catalogue compiled from different seismic sources; Three prediction relations, developed for Eastern and Central North America for the stable continental region; and the R-CRISIS program. The levels of hazard estimated were high in the Palaeozoic area of Guinea. A uniform b-value of 0.70 ± 0.12, and individual activity rate (λ) were calculated for the three seismic zones. The maximum PGA values estimated for the study region are 0.08 g, 0.27 g, and 0.57 g for 475, 2475 and 9975 years return periods, respectively. Finding from this study will be useful in planning for the regional infrastructure.
Improved Outcome in Young Children Compared to Adolescents and Adults After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: a Retrospective Study From Francophone Society of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy (SFGM-TC) (SFGM-TC)
Authors: POCHON Cécile , Detrait Marie , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Michel Gérard , Dhédin Nathalie , Chalandon Yves , Brissot Eolia , Forcade Edouard , Sirvent Anne , Izzadifar-Legrand Faezeh , Michallet Mauricette , Renard Cécile , Yakoub-Agha Ibrahim , Gonzales Fanny , Bay Jacques- Olivier , Kanold Justyna , Cornillon Jérome , Bulabois Claude Eric , Angoso Marie , Nguyen Stéphanie , Labussière-Wallet Hélène , Chevallier Patrice , Rialland Fanny , Bazarbachi Ali , Beguin Yves , Huynh Anne , Ménard Anne-Lise , Schneider Pascale , Neven Bénédicte , Paillard Catherine , Raus Nicole , Albuisson Eliane , Remen Thomas , Rubio Marie-Thérèse
Published: July 2021

Background: There are currently few data on the outcome of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) after allogeneic HSCT. The aim of this study is to describe the outcome and its specific risk factors for children, AYAs and adults after a first allogeneic HSCT for AML. Methods: In this retrospective study, we compared the outcome of AML patients receiving a first allogeneic HSCT between 2005 and 2017 according to their age at transplantation’s time: children (<15 years, n=564), AYAs (15-25 years, n=647) and adults (26-40 years; n= 1434). Results: With a median follow-up of 4.37 years (min-max 0.18 – 14.73 years), the probability of 2 year-overall survival (OS) was 71.4% in children, 61.1% in AYAs and 62.9% in adults (p=0.0009 for intergroup difference). Both relapse and non-relapse mortality (NRM) Cumulative Incidence (CI) estimated at 2 years were different between the age groups (30.8% for children, 35.2% for AYAs and 29.4% for adults - p=0.0254, and 7.0% for children, 10.6% for AYAs and 14.2% for adults, p<0.0001; respectively). Whilst there was no difference between the 3 groups for grade I to IV acute GVHD CI at 3 months, the chronic GVHD CI at 2 years was higher in AYAs and adults (31.4% and 36.4%, respectively) in comparison to the children (17.5%) (p<0.0001). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with death were AML cytogenetics (HR1.73 [1.29-2.32] for intermediate risk 1, HR 1.50 [1.13-2.01] for intermediate risk 2, HR 2.22 [1.70-2.89] for high cytogenetics risk compared to low risk), use of TBI ≥ 8 Grays (HR 1.33 [1.09-1.61]), disease status at transplant (HR 1.40 [1.10-1.78] for second Complete Remission (CR), HR 2.26 [1.02-4.98] for third CR and HR 3.07 [2.44-3.85] for active disease, compared to first CR), graft source (HR 1.26 [1.05-1.50] for Peripheral Blood Stem Cells compared to Bone Marrow) and donor age (HR 1.01 (1-1.02] by increase of one year). Conclusion: Age is an independent risk factor for NRM and extensive chronic GVHD. This study suggests that AYAs AML patients should be treated with chemotherapy-based MAC regimen and bone marrow as stem cells source.
All are equal, but some are more equal than others: Social determinants of leisure time physical activity through the lens of intersectionality
Authors: Mielke Gregore I , Malta Deborah C , Nunes Bruno , Cairney John
Published: July 2021

Background
To date, no research has investigated social determinants of leisure time physical activity through the lens of intersectionality in a low- and middle-income country. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the intersectionality in leisure time physical activity in a nationwide sample of Brazilian adults.
Methods
Data from the Brazilian National Health Survey conducted in 2013 were analysed (N = 58,429). Prevalence of leisure-time physical activity (150 + minutes per week in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity) was estimated according to gender, racial identity, education and income, and according to multiple combinations of these sociodemographic characteristics (i.e., multiple jeopardy index).
Results
The prevalence of leisure time physical activity was 22.9% (95%CI: 22.3 to 23.6). Overall, the prevalence of leisure time physical activity was highest among men, individuals with white skin colour, and among those in the highest group of education and income. Among men, white, with a university degree and in the highest quartile of income (3% of the population), the prevalence of physical activity was 48%. Among non-white women with low education and low income (8.1% of the population), the prevalence of leisure time physical activity was 9.8%.
Conclusion
Informed by the theory of intersectionality, findings of this study have shown that intersections of gender, racial identity and socioeconomic position of the Brazilian society strongly influence leisure-time physical activity at the individual level. Targeted interventions to increase leisure-time physical activity should address the complexities of social status intersections.
Tocovid, a tocotrienol-rich vitamin E in preventing atrial fibrillation in post-coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery: A preliminary result
Authors: Musa Ahmad Farouk , Dillon Jeswant , T Mohamed Ezani Md , Yunus Alwi Mohamed , Sanusi Abdul Rais , Nordin Mohd Nazeri , Nordin Rusli Bin
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is associated with poor outcome, increased resource utilisation, morbidity and mortality. Its pathogenesis is initiated by systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. It is hypothesised that a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent such as tocotrienol, an isomer of Vitamin E, could prevent POAF.Aims: The aim of this study is to determine whether a potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory agent, Tocovid, a tocotrienol-rich capsule, could reduce the incidence of POAF and affect the mortality and morbidity as well as the duration of ICU, HDU and hospital stay. Methods: This study was planned as a prospective, randomised, controlled trial with parallel groups. The control group received placebo containing palm superolein while the treatment group received Tocovid capsules. We investigated the incidence of POAF, the length of hospital stay (LoHS) after surgery and the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Results: The recruitment started in January 2019 but the preliminary results are unblinded since the study is still ongoing. 202 patients have been recruited out of a target sample size of 250 as of January 2021. About 75% have completed the study and 6.4% were either lost during follow-up or withdrawn; 4% of them died. The mean age group was 61.44 ± 7.30 with no statistical difference between them, with males having a preponderance for AF. The incidence rate of POAF was 24.36% and the mean time for developing POAF was 55.38 ± 29.9 hours post-CABG. Obesity is not a predictive factor. No statistically significant difference was observed when comparing left atrial size, NYHA group, ejection fraction and the premorbid history. The mean cross-clamp time was 71 ± 34 minutes and the mean bypass time was 95 ± 46 minutes, with no statistical difference. There was a three-fold increase in death among patients with POAF (p=0.008) and an increase in the duration of ICU stay (p=0.01), the total duration of hospital stay (p=0.04) and reintubation (p=0.045).Conclusion: A relatively lower incidence rate of POAF was noted though the study is still ongoing. It remains to be seen if our prophylactic intervention using Tocovid would reduce the incidence of AF.
Conflict communications in modern media
Authors: Chumikov A. N.
Published: July 2021

The author traces the dynamics of ideas about conflict communications in the media in the conditions of a revolutionary change in the information space. These changes are so global that they have led to the emergence of the term «mediatization of public life», which is defined as the process of creating virtual politics and economics and establishing a serious dependence of real spheres on their presentation in the media. In the context of the information and communication explosion, there is a phenomenon called «disappearance of fact», «meaning instead of fact», when the model of narrative presentation of facts is increasingly replaced by their interpretation and construction of meanings. The author notes that analysts are keen on fact-checking – methods of recognizing factoids, fakes; identifying other forms of manipulation of information. However, it is equally important not only to «expose» implicit influences, but also to understand that the so-called «manipulations» that characterize unacceptable methods in the media are becoming objectively inherent in media communications.

Semantic interpretation of the received information and the confrontation of meanings become the inevitable and dominant forms of communication behavior in the media field of conflict. Semantic positioning involves the orientation of the audience on how to perceive this content, what it means now and in the future. In the framework of this process, according to the author, such a term as «relevance» is acceptable. It is necessary to rethink the content in the direction that is relevant for the subject of political communication, as well as to position the relevant information that does not contradict the legal acts of the state and the ethical standards of the professional community.
Perturbative and nonperturbative studies of CFTs with MN global symmetry
Authors: Henriksson Johan , Stergiou Andreas
Published: July 2021

Fixed points in three dimensions described by conformal field
theories with \ensuremath{M N}_{m,n} = O(m)^n\rtimes S_nMNm,n=O(m)n⋊Sn
global symmetry have extensive applications in critical phenomena.
Associated experimental data for m=n=2m=n=2
suggest the existence of two non-trivial fixed points, while the
\varepsilonε
expansion predicts only one, resulting in a puzzling state of affairs. A
recent numerical conformal bootstrap study has found two kinks for small
values of the parameters mm
and nn,
with critical exponents in good agreement with experimental
determinations in the m=n=2m=n=2
case. In this paper we investigate the fate of the corresponding fixed
points as we vary the parameters mm
and nn.
We find that one family of kinks approaches a perturbative limit as
mm
increases, and using large spin perturbation theory we construct a large
mm
expansion that fits well with the numerical data. This new expansion,
akin to the large NN
expansion of critical O(N)O(N)
models, is compatible with the fixed point found in the
\varepsilonε
expansion. For the other family of kinks, we find that it persists only
for n=2n=2,
where for large mm
it approaches a non-perturbative limit with
\Delta_\phi\approx 0.75Δϕ≈0.75.
We investigate the spectrum in the case \ensuremath{M N}_{100,2}MN100,2
and find consistency with expectations from the lightcone bootstrap.
Influence of the substrate composition on the yield and nutritional value of the fruiting bodies of the edible mushrooms Pleurotus citrinopileatus and Cyclocybe aegerita
Authors: Bandura I.I. , Kulyk A. S. , Makohon S. V. , Khareba O. V. , Khareba V. V.
Published: July 2021

Purpose. To reveal the influence of the substrate compositions on technical indicators and the chemical composition of the fruiting bodies of the golden oyster mushroom and poplar mushroom.
Methods. The experimental design included cultivation of two species of wood-decay fungi Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer (strain 2161 IVK) and Cyclocybe aegerita (V.Brig.) Vizzini (strain 2230 IVK) on three variants of substrate composition. Laboratory, laboratory-production methods for evaluating the effectiveness of growing technology, chemical composition of the obtained raw materials, statistical methods of analysis were applied.
Results. The structure and composition of substrates affect the technological characteristics of the culture, physical and chemical properties of fruiting bodies. The shortest fruiting cycle of 35.2 ± 1.7 days was determined for C. aegerita under growing conditions on SC1 substrate which formula included «straw, husks, pellet, rapeseed, corn, and CaCO3» in the ratio of 30: 40: 70: 20: 20: 1. The highest yield (170.5 ± 15.2 g per 1 kg of substrate) in the experiment was determined for P. citrinopileatus on the SC1 substrate composed of «straw / pellets  / rapeseed / corn / CaCO3» in the ratio 40: 90: 20: 25: 1. Fruiting bodies of P. citrinopileatus obtained from the SC3 substrate composed of  «pellets / rapeseed / corn / CaCO3» in the ratio 60: 110: 20: 30: 1 had the highest protein content – 22.47 ± 0.19%, and fruiting bodies from the SC1 substrate had the least amount of proteins – 17.38 ± 2.60%. Fruiting bodies of C. aegerita contained more lipids than those of P. citrinopileatus, but the factor of the influence of the substrate composition on the total amount of lipids for some cultivars was insignificant. The largest amount of endopolysaccharides was isolated from the fruiting bodies of C. aegerita (6.81 ± 0.41%) cultivated on SC3 substrate, and the smallest in the SC1 variant (1.38 ± 0.25%). The content of endopolysaccharides in the fruiting bodies of P. citrinopileatus had less variability from 2.54 ± 0.54 (SC3) to 4.72 ± 0.61% (SC1).
Conclusion. Substrate compositions significantly affect the biological efficiency of cultivars and the content of nutrients in fruiting bodies of the studied species. The obtained results enable producers of mushrooms to predict the production efficiency and quality of grown mushrooms in accordance with the use of available raw materials.
Assessment of smallholder farmers’ perception and adaptation response to climate change in the Olifants catchment, South Africa
Authors: Olabanji Mary Funke , Davis Nerhene , Ndarana Thando , Kuhudzai Anesu Gelfand , Mahlobo Dawn
Published: July 2021

Climate change is expected to affect the livelihood of rural farmers in South Africa, particularly the smallholder farmers, due to their overwhelming dependence on rain-fed agriculture. This study examines smallholder farmers' perception of climate change, the adaptation strategies adopted and factors that influence their adaptive decisions. The unit of data collection was household interview and focus group discussion. Climate data for the Olifants catchment (1986–2015) were also collected to validate farmers' perception of climate change with actual climate trend. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Kendall trend, Sen's slope estimator and multinomial logit regression model. Results revealed that smallholder farmers are aware of climate change (98%), their perception of these changes aligns with actual meteorological data, as the Mann–Kendall test confirms a decreasing inter-annual rainfall trend (−0.172) and an increasing temperature trend (0.004). These changes in temperature and precipitation have prompted the adoption of various adaptation responses, among which the use of improved seeds, application of chemical fertilizer and changing planting dates were the most commonly practised. The main barriers to the adoption of adaptation strategies were lack of access to credit facility, market, irrigation, information about climate change and lack of extension service. The implication of this study is to provide information to policy-makers on the current adaptation responses adopted by farmers and ways in which their adaptive capacity can be improved in order to ensure food security.
A standardized method to measure the longitudinal UV emittance of low-pressure-lamps in dependence of water temperature
Authors: Schmalwieser Alois W. , Hirschmann Georg , Eggers Jutta , Sommer Regina
Published: July 2021

The high level of acceptance of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation for water disinfection in the past decade is due to the development of quality standards, especially for drinking water disinfection in Europe (Austrian Standards Institute, German Standards Institute). The central parts of a UV-disinfection device are the UV lamps. Despite their importance, their characterisation and quality assurance is far from being a matter of course and had not been regulated so far. This holds especially with regard to their temperature behaviour. The UV radiation (UVR) emittance of Mercury-Low-Pressure- and Amalgam-Low-Pressure-lamps (LP-lamps) depends on temperature. Each lamp type has its own optimal temperature where UVR emittance is highest. At lower or higher temperatures, UVR emittance is reduced. Additionally LP-lamps do not emit homogeneously along their length and this emission profile can change with temperature. In this paper, we present a standardized method to measure the UVR emittance of LP-lamps along the length in water in dependence of water temperature. This method has been included in the updated Austrian standard ÖNORM M 5873-1 (2020) and in the new release DIN 19294-1 (2020). With this method, the UVR emittance of LP-lamps can be characterized and different types of lamps can be compared.
Sludge char-to-fuel approaches based on the hydrothermal fueling IV: fermentation
Authors: Qin Jinyi , Zhang Rui , Yang Ruiwen , Fang Jiao , Zhang Yu , Li Xiaoguang , Gao Junfa
Published: July 2021

Sewage sludge was subjected to hydrothermal fueling (HTF) (330 °C for 40 min), obtaining hydrochar at 13.5 MJ kg−1. The higher heating value (HHV) of the raw sludge was related to its fatty acid content. The results showed that although the higher heating value (HHV) of the raw sludge was related to its fatty acid content, with the intensification of HTF, the increase in aliphatic/cyclic amino acids determined the production of HHV in the hydrochar. In order to increase the content of fatty acids and amino acids, the sludge was fermented. However, the Bacteroidetes consumed the organic matter too early, which was detrimental to the production of HHV. Therefore, appropriate sludge fermentation is recommended to restrict excessive Bacteroidetes proliferation, decompose lipids to saturated fatty acids, and convert proteins to aliphatic/cyclic amino acids to increase the efficiency of converting sludge to fuel.
Targeting Chikungunya Virus Entry: Alternatives for New Inhibitors
in Drug Discovery
Authors: Silva Leandro Rocha , Rodrigues Érica Erlanny da Silva , Taniele-Silva Jamile , Anderson Letícia , Araújo-Júnior João Xavier de , Bassi Ênio José , Silva-Júnior Edeildo F. da
Published: July 2021

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an Alphavirus (Togaviridae) responsible for
Chikungunya fever (CHIKF) that is mainly characterized by a severe polyarthralgia, in
which it is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes.
Nowadays, there are no licensed vaccines or approved drugs to specifically treat this
viral disease. Structural viral proteins participate in key steps of its replication cycle, such
as viral entry, membrane fusion, nucleocapsid assembly, and virus budding. In this context,
envelope E3-E2-E1 glycoproteins complex could be targeted for designing new drug
candidates. In this review, aspects of the CHIKV entry mechanism are discussed to provide
insights into assisting the drug discovery process. Moreover, several naturals, naturebased
and synthetic compounds, as well as repurposed drugs and virtual screening are also
explored as alternatives for developing CHIKV entry inhibitors. Finally, we provided a
complementary analysis of studies involving inhibitors that were not explored by in silico
methods. Based on this, Phe118, Val179, and Lys181 were found to be the most frequent residues,
being present in 89.6, 82.7, and 93.1% of complexes, respectively. Lastly, some
chemical aspects associated with interactions of these inhibitors and mature envelope E3-
E2-E1 glycoproteins’ complex were discussed to provide data for scientists worldwide,
supporting their search for new inhibitors against this emerging arbovirus.