bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extinction through Climate Change: Review of Evidence and Analysis of Two Land Snails from the Seychelles Islands
Authors: Altaba Cristian R.
Published: October 2022

Several extinctions have already been attributed, at least in part, to global warming, as climate change constitutes a serious threat for species living in isolated ecosystems and thus unable to track habitat changes. However, in all these cases extinction was due to human impacts, often directly but generally also through exotic invasive species. For two arboreal land snails in Indian Ocean islands a link has been proposed with decreasing rainfall. The decline (but probably not extinction) of Pachnodus velutinus, a specialist of moist forests on the summits of northwestern Mahé, was most likely caused instead by invasive plants altering its habitat and alien predators decimating the population in the small remaining moist forests. An alternative explanation assuming genetic swamping through hybridization with a species from lower elevations has no basis, as the presumed hybrid constitutes a distinct species able to survive in the altered, dryer habitat. On Aldabra Atoll, the endemic Rhachistia aldabrae was claimed to have been the first extinction due to climate change, but is still extant. No relationship can be detected between number of sightings and annual rainfall, although a weighted measure that takes into account rainfall in previous years suggests a limited impact of weather. Analysis of the sighting record in various ways yields a probability of survival over time that never dropped below 0.3. The decline was caused instead by intense impacts of exotic invasive species. Alternative shortcuts to evaluate extinction rates among poorly known species are shown to be unreliable. Although no contemporary extinction can still be attributed to climate change, indirect and synergistic impacts on biodiversity are expected, especially through promoting biological invasions.
Financing Benefits and Barriers to Routine HIV Screening in Clinical Settings: A Scoping review
Authors: Serag Hani , Clark Isabel , Naig Cherith , Lakey David , Tiruneh Yordanos M.
Published: October 2022

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone between 13-64 years be tested for HIV at least once as a routine procedure. HIV routine screening is reimbursable by Medicare, Medicaid, expanded Medicaid, and most commercial insurance plans. Yet, scaling-up HIV routine screening remains a challenge. We conducted a scoping review for studies on financial benefits and barriers associated with HIV screening in clinical settings in the U.S. to inform an evidence-based strategy to scale-up HIV routine screening. We searched Ovid MEDLINE®, Cochrane, and Scopus for studies published between 2006 - 2020 in English. The search identified 383 Citations; we screened 220 and excluded 163 (outside the time limit, irrelevant, or outside the U.S.). Of the 220 screened articles, we included 35 and disqualified 155 (did not meet the eligibility criteria). We organized eligible articles under two themes: financial benefits/barriers in healthcare settings (9 articles); and Cost-effectiveness in healthcare settings (26 articles). The review concluded recommendations in three areas: (1) Finance: Incentivize healthcare providers/systems for implementing HIV routine screening and/or separate its reimbursement from bundle payments; (2) Personnel: Encourage nurse-initiated HIV screening programs in primary care settings and educate providers on CDC recommendations; and (3) Approach: Use opt-out approach.
Epidemiological Analysis of Cumulative Incidence and Mortality by COVID-19 in Nursing Homes: First and Second Waves
Authors: Esquirol Caussa Jordi , García San Emeterio Manuel , Herrero Vila Elisabeth , Serra Peralta Mariona , Colomer Giner Miquel , González Sánchez Ignasi , Moix Garolera Salvador , Farrés Quesada Josep , Sánchez Aldeguer Josep
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To analyze cumulative incidence and mortality by COVID-19 in the different types of nursing homes, in the first and second wave.Methods: Data source: Transparency portal of the Generalitat de Catalunya, official COVID-19 register of all Catalan nursing homes (from March to December 10, 2020). Variables: Affectation of disease and mortality by COVID-19 in geriatric centers in Catalonia, stratified by size of center and type of management. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate linear regression analysis, IBMTMSPSS® v.20.Results:N = 1,057 residences (63,682 beds, average = 60.48). 52% have <50 beds, 42.8% between 50-150 beds, and 5%> 150 beds. COVID-19: Cumulative incidence: 21,370 (confirmed + suspicious); mortality: 5,010 (confirmed + suspicious).233 residences did not register COVID-19 patients (22%) and 636 did not register COVID-19 deaths (60.2%).According to the type of supplier, the lowest incidence of COVID-19 was in non-accredited (36.2% without cases), then concerted / collaborators (19.3%) and own of the Generalitat de Catalunya (7.9 %, p = 0.000). The centers with the fewest deaths were the non-accredited (78% without deaths), followed by contracted / collaborators (56.8%) and those of the Generalitat de Catalunya (41.3%, p = 0.000).Depending on the size, no COVID-19 patients were registered: 168 centers <50 beds (30.5%); 64 of the 50-150 beds (14.2%); and 1 of the> 150 beds (1.9%) (p = 0.000). 395 of the <50 beds did not register deaths due to COVID-19 (71.8%), 232 of the 50-150 beds (51.3%), and 9 of the> 150 beds (17%) (p = 0.000).Discussion:Of the 1,057 centers analyzed, 22% did not register cases and in 60% there were no deaths from COVID-19.Residences without concert / collaboration with the Generalitat and with fewer beds showed a lower cumulative incidence and mortality due to COVID-19 during the first wave.
THE EFFECT OF MINDSET AND MOTIVATION ON GRIT BECAME ACCOUNTANT OF ACCOUNTING STUDENTS UNIVERSITY IN JAKARTA
Authors: Pebrian Rizky , Susanti Santi , Sumiati Ati
Published: October 2022

This study aims to find out whether there is an influence between Mindset and Motivation with Grit of Students University in Jakarta. The Study was conducted for three months staring from November 2019 until January 2020. The research method used survey method. The Population in this research is 320 accounting students of University in Jakarta. The Sampling technique used random sampling so that the sample was 167 students. Data of variable (Y) Grit, (X1) Mindset, and (X2) Motivation were obtained from the questionnaire. The requirements analysis test done is to find regression equation that produces Ẏ = 5,177 + 0,477X1 + 0,677X2. The results of analysis show: (i) there is significant positive influence between mindset with grit, (ii) there is significant positive influence between motivation and grit, (iii) there is significant positive influence between mindset and motivation with grit. Basic on the results of the analysis it can be concluded that mindset and motivation stimultaneously affect grit.
RETRACTED: The relevance between serum folate and osteoporosis in adults based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Li Senjie , Lv Dongqing , Yang Hong , Yan Shaoyi , Jia Yongping , Wu Lei
Published: October 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Efficacy and safety of Obex® in overweight and obese subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Cabrera-Rode Eduardo , Cubas-Dueñas Ileana , Acosta Janet Rodriguez , Hernández Jeddú Cruz , González Ana Ibis Conesa , Calero Teresa M. González , Domínguez Yuri Arnold , Rodríguez José Hernández , Rodríguez Antonio D. Reyes , Jedd Aimee Álvarez , Valdés Ragmila Echevarría , Espinosa Liudmila Jorge , Belent Onelia Torres , Benavides Zoila Bell , Estévez Elizabeth Senra , Rodríguez Yanet Abreu , Rodríguez Juana del Valle , Julibá Silvia Marín
Published: October 2022

Background
Obex® may be helpful in reducing body weight and fat. The current study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Obex® in the treatment of overweight and obese subjects.
Methods
A double-blind, randomised, controlled phase III clinical trial was conducted involving 160 overweight and obese subjects (BMI ≥25.0 and <40 kg/m2) aged 20 to 60 years, who received Obex® (n=80) and placebo (n=80) plus non-pharmacological treatment (physical activity and nutritional counseling). One sachet of Obex® or placebo were administered before the two main meals each day for 6 months. In addition to anthropometric measurements and blood pressure, fasting plasma and 2h glucose levels during the oral glucose tolerance test, lipid profile, insulin, liver enzymes, creatinine, and uric acid (UA) were determined, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) beta-cell function (HOMA-β) were assessed and insulin sensitivity (IS) was calculated with three indirect indices.
Results
After 3 months of Obex®, 48.3% of the participants (28/58) achieved complete success in reducing both weight and waist circumference by greater than or equal to 5% from baseline, as opposed to 26.0% (13/50) of individuals receiving placebo (p=0.022). Compared to baseline, at 6 months no differences were found between the groups concerning anthropometric and biochemical measurements, except for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels, which were higher in subjects receiving Obex® compared to those receiving placebo (p=0.030). After 6 months of treatment, both groups showed reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels (p<0.012) compared to baseline value. However, only those intake Obex® showed reduced insulin concentrations and HOMA-IR, improved IS (p<0.05), and decreased creatinine and UA levels (p<0.005).
Conclusions
The consumption of Obex® together with lifestyle changes increased the cardiovascular protective effect (increased HDL-c), contributed to a rapid reduction of weight and waist circumference and improved insulin homeostasis, which did not occur in the placebo group, and appears to be safe as an adjunct at conventional obesity treatment.
Trial registration
Clinical trial protocol was registered in the Cuban public registry of clinical trials under code RPCEC00000267 on 17/04/2018 and also registered in the international registry of clinical trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, under code: NCT03541005 on 30/05/2018.
Does Energy Poverty increases Starvation? Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Pondie Thierry Messie , Dorothy ENGWALI FON , NKOA Bruno Emmanuel ONGO , DOMGUIA Edmond NOUBISSI
Published: October 2022

In this study, we contribute to the existing literature on energy poverty and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The paper is carried out on a panel of 36 sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2000 to 2020. Adopting several estimation methods, such as fixed effects, Driscoll-Kraay, Lewbel 2SLS and Generalized Method of Moments, we find positive results of energy on food security. In SSA, the energy development index, access to electricity and access to clean energy for cooking positively influence food security. This may encourage policy makers to prioritise investment in off-grid energy for vulnerable households through small-scale power systems, which can promote food security by instantly affecting local food production, preservation and preparation and contribute to people's sustainability and contribute to preserve the environment.
The Impact of Cartoon Masks & Standard Masks on Doctor-Patient Communication in Pediatrics
Authors: Rahman Mukadas , Zhao Aonan , Li Xiaoli , Su Xiaorong , Jiang Jie , Tong Jianjing
Published: October 2022

Background: As the COVID-19 pandemic rages rampantly worldwide, wearing masks has become necessary. However, it remains unexplored concerning the impact of different types of masks on communication between pediatricians and patients.
Objective: Against this backdrop, this study aims to investigate the influence of cartoon masks and standard masks on doctor-patient communication in pediatric treatment.
Research design: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the pediatric clinic of Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University between April and August 2021. Parents were divided into cartoon mask group and standard mask group based on the masks worn by the attending doctors. A questionnaire was conducted immediately after the visit to discern the demographic variables and evaluate the effect of communication. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23.0 and ROST CM6 Chinese Sentiment Dictionary.
Results: 200 valid questionnaires are subject to the statistical analysis. Results suggest that parents are in favor of cartoon masks, which can better reflect the sincerity of pediatricians (100 vs 88, p < 0.001) and imply that they are really listening (94 vs 84, p = 0.024). Besides, cartoon masks indicate more attention is paid to children (99 vs 85, p < 0.001). It is shown that parents tend to comment more positively on pediatricians wearing cartoon masks (74.28% vs 28.57%). However, 60% of pediatricians indicate they are less likely to choose cartoon masks.
Conclusion: Results show parents prefer doctors who wear cartoon masks, for it shows their sincerity and really listening, and much more attention is paid to their children’s feelings. Therefore, this study argues that cartoon masks exert a largely positive impact on the effectiveness of doctor-patient communication and thus they are highly recommended for pediatricians.
CD97 Expression Level and Its Effect on Cell Adhesion in Preeclampsia
Authors: ATIGAN AYHAN , TAN SEMİH , ÇETİN HÜLYA , GÜLER ÖMER TOLGA , ÖZDAMAR SAİM , KARAKAYA YELİZ ARMAN
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Cellular interactions and cell adhesion underlie preeclampsia (PE). The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of cell adhesion molecules such as CD97, neural (N)-cadherin, epithelial (E) -cadherin and integrin beta-4 in PE.
Methods: This prospective study included 20 pregnant women with PE and a control group of 16 healthy pregnant women who were matched for age, gestational age, gravida and parity. Standard blood tests and placental cell adhesion molecule immunohistochemical staining were examined.
Results: The creatinine, uric acid and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels from standard blood tests were found to be statistically higher in the PE group (p=0.002, p=0.000, p=0.001; respectively). In the PE group, the CD97 maternal serum level was statistically significantly lower, as was its immunohistochemical expression in placental sections (p=0.028, p=0.000; respectively). The E-cadherin expression score was statistically higher in the PE group compared to the control group (3,65±1,84 vs 2,06±1,76 respectively; p=0.003). The N-cadherin expression score was statistically lower in the PE group compared to the control group (1,50±0,82 vs 2,43±1,59 respectively; p=0.049). Integrin beta-4 was not statistically different between groups.
Conclusions: Cellular interaction is responsible for PE as in cancer. A balance in intercellular communication, as researched in cancer therapy, may offer the solution in PE.
Keywords: Preeclampsia, Cadherins, CD97, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Integrin beta-4
A novel technique for large-fragment knock-in animal production without ex vivo handling of zygotes
Authors: Abe Manabu , Nakatsukasa Ena , Natsume Rie , Hamada Shun , Sakimura Kenji , Watabe Ayako , Ohtsuka Toshihisa
Published: October 2022

CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing has dramatically improved genetic modification technology.In-situelectroporation called genome editing via oviductal nucleic acid delivery (GONAD), which eliminates the need forex vivoembryo handling, is technically the simplest method for gene transfer and can be performed in laboratories without developmental engineering expertise. However, the use of this method remains challenging in the case of large-fragment knock-in, such as gene expression cassettes. Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) act as donor DNA for homologous recombination in infectious cells, including rodent embryos. In this study, we demonstrated simultaneous electroporation of AAV donors and CRISPR/Cas9 components into embryos to create knock-in animals, and successfully generated knock-in rats carrying a gene cassette with a length of 3.0 kb using a small number of animals andin-situelectroporation. These findings indicate that this technique is an efficient high-throughput strategy for producing genetically modified rodents and may be applicable to other animal species.
The effect of motor imagery on ankle function and performance in persons with and without a lateral ankle sprain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Siemes Luuk J.F. , Worp Maarten P. , Nieuwenhuijzen P. Henk J. A. , Stolwijk Niki M. , Pelgrim Thomas C. , Staal J. Bart
Published: October 2022

Background: Lateral ankle sprains are highly prevalent and result in tissue damage, impairments of muscle strength, instability and muscle activation. Up to 74% will experience ongoing symptoms after a lateral ankle sprain. Motor imagery might be supportive in rebuilding motor networks or creating new networks to restore impairments such as muscle activation and movement patterns. This systematic review was undertaken to summarize the current body of evidence.
Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted in healthy participants and participants with a lateral ankle sprain. Movement representation techniques (motor imagery or action observation) in isolation, or in combination with usual care were compared to controls. Any relevant variables related to (self-reported) function and performance were included in the analysis.
Results: Nine studies, six examining healthy participants and three examining participants with an acute lateral ankle sprain, were included. All studies were rated with moderate to high risk of bias overall. Quality of the motor imagery interventions differed largely between studies. The results showed a large and significant effect of motor imagery on lower leg strength (SMD 1.47, 95% CI 0.44 to 2.50). Evidence showed a non-significant effect on ankle range of motion (SMD 0.25, 95% CI -0.43 to 0.93), a non-significant on edema (SMD -1.11, 95% CI -1.60 to 3.81), a non-significant effect on the anterior reach direction of the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) (SMD 0.73, 95% CI -0.62 to 2.08), the posterolateral direction (SMD 0.32, 95% CI -0.94 to 1.57), and on the posteromedial direction (SMD 0.52, 95% CI -0.07 to 1.10). The certainty of evidence for the different comparisons was very low.
Conclusions: There is a significant, positive effect for motor imagery to improve lower leg muscle strength. The certainty of evidence was however low. The effect on balance, range of motion and edema was uncertain, non-significant and of very low certainty.
Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021243258.
Appropriate concentration of botulinum toxin type A for dry eye disease treatment by injection into the medial lower eyelid. A randomized comparative study
Authors: Mekhasingharak Nattapong , Kosaiyaganonth Nattamol , Sawatdiwithayayong Jeerawat
Published: October 2022

This prospective, double-blind, randomized, comparative eye-to-eye interventional study aimed to determine the appropriate concentration of botulinum toxin type A for dry eye disease treatment in terms of effectiveness, complications, and cost-effectiveness.
Patients with dry eye having a similar degree in both eyes treated with non-preservative artificial tears for at least 1 month and persistent dry eye symptoms were enrolled. In each patient, a subcutaneous injection of 3.3 U of botulinum toxin type A was administered in the medial part of the randomly selected lower eyelid and 2.5 U of the same was administered to the second lower eyelid. Complete subjective and objective evaluations were performed at baseline and 2, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after intervention.
Eleven patients (mean age 64.63 ± 14.81 years) were included. Dry eye symptoms assessed by the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score improved significantly after treatment in both the 3.3 and 2.5 U groups. Comparison of post-treatment OSDI scores, tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer’s test, and modified Oxford grading scheme between the 3.3 and 2.5 U groups showed no significant difference at any time point of the study.
Conclusions: Both 3.3 and 2.5 U botulinum toxin injections improved dry eye symptoms.
Towards the attainment of climate-smart PPP infrastructure projects: A critical review and recommendations
Authors: Akomea-Frimpong Isaac , Agyekum Amma Kyewaa , Amoakwa Alexander Baah , Babon-Ayeng Prosper , Pariafsai Fatemeh
Published: October 2022

Extreme climate change is an existential threat to humanity and infrastructure development. At the same time, the construction and operation of carbon-intense public-private partnership (PPP) infrastructure such as road transport, water, public houses, energy supply and saniation unleash most of the greenhouse gas emissions that impacts negatively on the climate. Increasingly, there is a heightened interests in the development and financing of climate-smart PPP solutions to save our planet from climate disaster. Therefore, in this present study, a critical review to identify the key driving factors and challenges for climate-smart PPP solutions was undertaken together with recommendations. The paper utilised a systematic literature review (SLR) method where data was sourced from prominent academic databases of Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The outcomes of the review demonstrate key drivers such as the urgent need to attain net-zero carbon emission targets and climate activisim to transition to low-carbon public infrastructures. The barriers identified include poor responses to resolving climate crisis in the PPP infrastructures, and lapses in project policies and practices to achieve climate-resilient PPPs. The results of this article highlight relevant gaps and recommendations for further research and management of PPP projects.
Simultaneously evaluation of physiological and biochemical responses in the leaves and roots of common Iranian bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon L. (Pers.)] accessions that can tolerate a wide range of temperature fluctuations
Authors: Amini Zohreh , Salehi Hassan , Chehrazi Mehrangiz , Etemadi Mohammad
Published: October 2022

The average temperature of the earth's surface is increasing swiftly, negatively affecting the urban space's green cover. Using local genetic variation based on retrieving native populations has been proposed as a useful option to deal with global warming and preserve turfgrass quality. In this study, to identify Iranian common bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylonL. (Pres.)] accessions which could endure a wide range of temperature fluctuations, eight Iranian accessions of common bermudagrass were collected from eight provinces with different climatic conditions including Taft, Naein, Malayer, Gardane-Heyran, Safashahr, Gorgan (as cold tolerant accessions) and Ahvaz (as a native accession to tropical regions) along with a foreign cultivar (California origin named Blackjack). They were subjected to five temperature regimes, including 35/30°C, 40/35°C, 45/40°C, 50/45°C, and 50/50° day/night cycles for 21 days. Evaluation of physiological parameters (total chlorophyll, leaf relative water content, electrolyte leakage, root viability and total soluble proteins), osmolytes (proline, total soluble carbohydrates and starch), antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, ascorbic peroxidase, catalase, and peroxidase enzymes) in the leaves and roots simultaneously revealed that among investigated accessions Gorgan with low electrolyte leakage in leaves and starch storage in roots and high Tchl, RWC, antioxidant enzymes activity and total soluble carbohydrates in leaves and roots could endure the harsh conditions of the 50/45°C temperature regime with acceptable turfgrass quality. Gorgan can endure almost 65°C temperature fluctuations and could be introduced as a cold- and heat-stress tolerant accession. These findings provided that a heat tolerant plant with controlling respiratory rate in roots and efficiently breaking down starch storage to carbohydrates could provide the energy required for whole plant metabolic activities. This experiment also highlights the importance of simultaneously investigating evaluated parameters in leaves and roots.
Power Quality Enhancement based on Type 2 Fuzzy logic direct power control of a Microgrid connected photovoltaic system with battery storage feeding nonlinear load
Authors: Bouziane Maroua , Zarour Laid , Mehazzem Fateh
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we deal with control performance and power qualityimprovement of Microgrid connected Photovoltaic System (PVS) withstorage. A comparative study was conducted between two versions of Fuzzy Logic Controllers: Type 1 (T1FLC) and Type 2 (T2FLC). DCside of the proposed microgrid system is composed of a photovoltaic systemand battery storage. Both are controlled by fuzzy logic algorithmsto extract maximum power from solar panels, and guarantee optimalmanagement of battery storage. AC side is composed of a two-level MultifunctionalVoltage Source Inverter (MVSI) associated with a ShuntActive Power Filter (SAPF) connected to the grid and supplies a nonlinearload. This side is controlled by a Direct Power Control strategyassociated with Space Vector-Modulation technique (DPC-SVM),and an Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) algorithm to inject the extractedactive power into the network and compensate the reactive power.The growing integration of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) poses several challenges to Microgrid systems. The T2FLC structureis proposed to better handle those challenges and enhance performance.Simulation of the proposed solution is validated under MATLAB/Simulink. The obtained simulation results show that T2FLC technique provides the best solution in terms of good tracking andoptimization performance, reactive power compensation, Total HarmonicDistortion (THD) elimination caused by non-linear loads,and robustness against irradiance and nonlinear load variations.
Reduced order homogenization of thermoelastic materials with strong temperature-dependence and comparison to a machine-learned model
Authors: Sharba Shadi , Herb Julius , Fritzen Felix
Published: October 2022

In this work, an approach for strongly temperature-dependent thermoelastic homogenization is presented. It is based on computational homogenization paired with reduced order models (ROM) that allow for full temperature dependence of material parameters in all phases. In order to keep the model accurate and computationally efficient at the same time, we suggest the use of different ROMs at few discrete temperatures. Then, for intermediate temperatures, we derive an energy optimal basis emerging from the available ones. The reduced homogenization problem can then be solved in real-time.
Other than in classical homogenization where only the effective behavior, i.e. the effective stiffness and the effective thermal expansion, of the microscopic reference volume element (RVE) are of interest, our ROM delivers also accurate full-field reconstructions of all mechanical fields on the RVE scale.
We show that the proposed method referred to as optimal field interpolation is on par with linear interpolation in terms of its numerical cost but with an accuracy that matches direct numerical simulation (DNS) in many cases, i.e. very accurate real-time predictions are anticipated with minimal DNS inputs that range from two to six temperatures at which simulations are pursued. Further, we pick up a black box machine-learned model as an alternative route and show its limitations in view of the limited training data.
Long-term observation of monovision surgery using femtosecond laser- assisted laser in situ keratomileusis for myopia correction in early presbyopia
Authors: Ye Yuhao , Zhang Zhe , Niu Lingling , Shi Wanru , Lu Zhong-Lin , Zhao Jing , Zhou Xingtao
Published: October 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the long-term safety and efficacy of femtosecond laser-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) in patients with myopia with presbyopia.
Methods: This case series study included 30 eyes of 15 patients who underwent monovision designed FS-AISK for myopia correction with presbyopia (male/female, 8/7; age, 49.20±7.05 years; spherical equivalent [SE], –6.97±1.82 D). Parameters including SE; uncorrected distal visual acuity (VA); corrected distal VA; intraocular pressure; presbyopic add power; VA of dominant eyes (D-eye), non-dominant (nD-eye) eyes, and both eyes (Bi) at 0.4 m, 0.8 m, and 5 m; wavefront aberration; and contrast sensitivity (CS) were recorded. Follow-up was performed for 2.5 years. Differences were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.
Results: The safety indicesand efficacy indices were 1.08±0.19 and 0.77±0.29 at 2.5 years postoperatively. The VAs (logMAR) of D-eyes, nD-eyes, and Bi at 5.0 m, 0.8 m, and 0.4 m were –0.02±0.08, 0.26±0.19 (D-eyes vs. nD-eyes, p<0.01), and –0.29±0.06; 0.05±0.14, 0.02±0.11 (D-eyes vs. nD-eyes, p>0.05), and –0.03±0.07; and 0.21±0.17, 0.01±0.07 (D-eyes vs. nD-eyes, p<0.001), and –0.02±0.07, respectively. The binocular VA was >20/25 (Snellen lines) at three distances in 100% of the subjects. Between the D-eyes and nD-eyes in CS, a minor but significant difference was observed at 1.5–12.0 cpd.
Conclusions: FS-LASIK is safe and practical for the correction of myopes with presbyopia, with long-term efficacy at near and far distances. Compared with D-eyes, the CS in nD-eyes may be impaired at low and moderate spatial frequencies.
Association between sleep duration and depressive symptoms in Chinese aged 45 years and older: an empirical study based on 2018CHARLS
Authors: Du Jin , Yuan Mei , Ma Guifeng , Ma Anning
Published: October 2022

Background The relationship between sleep time and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people has not been fully revealed, and there are few empirical studies from China. Objective An empirical study was conducted based on 2018CHARLS to explore the association between sleep duration and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people. Methods A total of 17293 middle-aged and elderly people aged ≥ 45 years were selected as the study subjects. Sleep duration was measured by the sum of night and day sleep duration, and depressive symptoms were detected by the Center for Depression Rating Scale (CES-10). Restricted cubic spline model (RCS) and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to explore the association between them. Results Among the 17293 middle-aged and elderly people, 27.0%, 53.5% and 19.5% had sleep duration < 6 h, 6-8.9 h and ≥ 9 h, respectively. The detection rate of depressive symptoms was 40.2%. RCS analysis showed that there was a U-shaped association between depressive symptoms and sleep duration (χ2 = 512.59, P < 0.001). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with 7-7.9 h, sleep time < 6 h (OR = 1.309, 95%CI: 1.169–1.466) and 6-6.9 h (OR = 2.393, 95%CI: 2.156–2.656) were associated with high risk of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people; Sleep duration < 6 h (OR = 1.323, 95%CI: 1.132–1.545) and 6-6.9 h (OR = 2.677, 95%CI: 2.312-3.100) were associated with high risk of depressive symptoms in women; Sleep duration < 6 h (OR = 1.493, 95%CI: 1.291–1.728), 6-6.9 h (OR = 3.454, 95%CI: 3.027–3.940), ≥ 9 h (OR = 1.287, 95%CI: 1.111–1.491) were associated with high risk of depressive symptoms in males; Sleep duration < 6 h (OR = 1.608, 95%CI: 1.295–1.997), 6-6.9 h (OR = 3.584, 95%CI: 2.930–4.385), ≥ 9 h (OR = 1.358, 95%CI: 1.053–1.735) were associated with depressive symptoms in urban middle-aged and elderly men Occurrence of high risk correlation; The sleep duration < 6 h (OR = 1.368, 95%CI: 1.209–1.547) and 6-6.9 h (OR = 3.073, 95%CI: 2.747–3.439) in rural middle-aged and elderly were associated with high risk of depressive symptoms, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion There is a U-shaped association between sleep duration and the risk of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people. Insufficient sleep-in women and insufficient or too long sleep-in men may increase the risk of depressive symptoms.
Computational analysis revealed Triamcinolone acetonide produced by Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 as having antagonistic activity against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense
Authors: U Krishna Nayana R , S Nakkeeran , N Saranya , R Saravanan , K Mahendra , Ashraf Suhail
Published: October 2022

Fusarium oxysporumf. sp.cubenseis one of the most serious and threatening pathogens of banana causing Panama wilt worldwide. Bacterial endophytes were reported to have antifungal action through various mechanisms, which include the production of secondary metabolites during their interaction with pathogen. One such endophyte,Bacillus velezensisYEBBR6 antagonistic toFusarium oxysporumf. sp.cubenseproduced antimicrobial biomolecules against the pathogen during confrontation assay. Those molecules were screened for their antifungal property by anin-silicoapproach. Modelling of the fungal targets and docking them with those biomolecules was done to refine the potential antifungal compounds among the various biomolecules they generated during their di-trophic interaction with the pathogen. Protein targets were selected based on literature mining and those targets were modelled and validated for docking with the biomolecules through the AutoDock Vina module of the PyRx 0.8 server. Among the compounds screened, Triamcinolone acetonide was possessing the maximum binding affinity with chosen pathogen targets. It had the maximum binding affinity of 11.2 kcal/mol with XRN2 (5´ → 3´ Exoribonuclease 2) an enzyme involved in degrading m-RNA -. Kinetics of the protein-ligand complex formation for the further validation of docking results was done through Molecular Dynamic Simulation studies. Besides, the antifungal nature of the biomolecule was also confirmed againstFocby screening in wet lab through poisoned plate technique.
Fiber-specific micro- and macroscopic white matter alterations in progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal syndrome
Authors: Kamagata Koji , Uchida Wataru , Andica Christina , Takabayashi Kaito , Saito Yuya , Owaki Mana , Fujita Shohei , Hgiwara Akifumi , Wada Akihiko , Akashi Toshiaki , Sano Katsuhiro , Hori Masaaki , Aoki Shigeki
Published: October 2022

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration, which frequently present as a corticobasal syndrome (CBS), are characterized by progressive white matter (WM) alterations associated with the prion-like spreading of four-repeat tau. Considering the interplay of tau pathologies with clinical symptoms, capturing the disease-specific patterns of WM alterations might provide valuable clinical information; however, the mechanisms of loss of WM integrity and its involvement in the clinical deficits in tauopathies remain unknown, likely due to the difficulties in estimating complex WM structure. Here, a novel fibre-specific fiber density and fiber cross-section, and their combined measure estimated using fixel-based analysis (FBA), were cross-sectionally and longitudinally assessed in PSP (n = 20) and CBS (n = 17), and healthy controls (n = 20). Cross-sectional and longitudinal FBA indicated disease-specific progression patterns of fiber density loss and subsequent bundle atrophy consistent with the tau propagation patterns suggested in previous histopathological findings. Furthermore, longitudinal changes in fixel-wise metrics in WM tracts which control motor and cognitive functions exhibited strong correlations with changes in clinical dysfunction in both diseases. Our findings suggest that the FBA can be useful in determining the mechanisms of clinical deficits related to sequential WM alterations in PSP and CBS.
WITHDRAWN: Hydrothermal synthesis of rGO loaded CuTiO2 nanocomposite with enhanced visible light photo-catlytic activity for the removal of Rose Bengal dye
Authors: Manikandan Venkatachalam , Krishnamoorthy Umapathi
Published: October 2022

Technological development and Environmental Sustainability are mutually exclusive terms before the Nanotechnology era. With the advent of a diverse variety of nano-materials and composites, an eco-friendly technological development is made possible. One such application is the use of nano-composites in removing pollutants from industrial effluents. Rose Bengal (RB) is an organic dye that belongs to Xanthenes. RB is used extensively in textile, for printing and dying. It also finds an application as insecticide. A particular stain of RB is used in ophthalmology. Also about 20% of the dyes are lost in dyeing, and 19% of the dye is discharged to the environment which in turn pollutes it. Hence it becomes important to treat the effluents before they are discharged or dumped in the environment. Knowing the importance of removing harmful particles from the effluent, present research work synthesizes rGO/CuTiO2 nanocomposite in such a way to improve the photocatalytic dye degradation properties. Standard Hummers method is used for the preparation of Graphene Oxide and hydro-thermal method is adapted for the synthesis of rGO/CuTiO2 nanocomposite. The nano composites so prepared were characterized by UV, FT-IR, XRD, SEM with EDAX and TEM analysis. The structural analysis of monoclinic CuTiO2 composites shows that as the grain size and calcination temperature affects the photocatalytic degradation efficiency. The Degradation efficiency of various nanocomposites say GO, CuTiO2 and rGO/CuTiO2 were evaluated against Rose Bengal dye and it is found that the photocatalytic degradation efficiency is optimum for a RB concentration of 2.28 × 10–5 M, pH of RB = 9.0, and a nanocomposite used is = 0.20 g. It is found that rGO/CuTiO2 nanocomposites calcination temperature at 450oC exhibit superior photocatalystic behavior against Rose Bengal dye (k = 0.0228min-1) under visible light irradiation.
The efficacy and safety of remdesivir and its combination with other drug for the treatment of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Chuizhe , Fang Junde , Chen Shu , Rajaofera Mamy Jayne Nelly , Li Xuemiao , Wang Bo , Xia Qianfeng
Published: October 2022

Background

Remdesivir was considered to be a specific drug for Corona Virus Disease 2019. This systematic review aims to evaluate remdesivir monotherapy and combination therapy related clinical efficacy and risk.

Research design and methods

PubMed, Embase, SCIE, Cochrane Library, and American Clinical trial Center were searched up to 1 April 2022. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Remdesivir monotherapy with control drugs, or comparing different combination therapy.

Results

11 RCTs and 32 observational studies were included in analysis. In the main outcome, remdesivir use reduced mortality in patients with severe COVID-19 and improve recovery in patients. In other clinical outcomes, remdesivir use was associated with improved clinical status. In safety outcomes, remdesivir use did not cause liver or kidney damage. Compared with remdesivir alone, remdesivir combined with other drugs-steroids, favipiravir, and convalescent plasma- had no effect on mortality. In addition, remdesivir combined with tocilizumab may increase mortality.

Conclusion

Results of the systematic review showed that remdesivir was positive in COVID-19, especially patients with severe COVID-19. The more effective treatment of COVID-19 with other drugs combined with remdesivir is urgent and challenging research.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022322859.
Effects of Betula platyphylla invasion in north China on soil aggregate stability, soil organic carbon and active carbon composition of larch plantation
Authors: Ma Ying , Wu Huifeng , Hu Baoan , Cheng Xiaoqin , Kang Fengfeng , Han Hairong
Published: October 2022

Aims
In order to better understand the changes in the potential carbon sequestration capacity of forest soil after the invasion of broad-leaved trees into pure larch plantations, the effects of broadleaf tree invasion on soil aggregate stability and carbon sequestration by soil organic carbon and active carbon components were studied.
Methods
In northern China, the pure Larix principis-rupprechtii plantations and the Larix principis-rupprechtii plantations invaded by Betula platyphylla at various degrees with the same site conditions were selected (Betula platyphylla had a mixed degree of 0.2 and 0.4, respectively). ANOVA, correlation analysis, principal component analysis and structural equation were conducted to interpret the relations between Betula platyphylla invasion and soil properties.
Results
The distribution of soil macroaggregates (> 0.25 mm) increased with the increase in the mixed degree of Betula platyphylla. The mixture of Betula platyphylla could effectively increase the organic carbon and active carbon components of the original soil and soil aggregates of different diameter classes. The forest growth in this study area was mainly limited by nitrogen. The invasion of Betula platyphylla had an indirect impact on soil carbon sequestration by affecting the soil physical and chemical properties and the aggregate stability.
Conclusions
The invasion of Betula platyphylla had significant positive effects on soil aggregate stability, erosion resistance and soil nutrient status in Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation. The coniferous and broad-leaved mixture was a good strategy to increase the soil quality and soil organic carbon sequestration of the Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation in this area.
Short-term hypothyroidism transiently impaired endothelial function in differentiated thyroid cancer patients
Authors: Hou Li-ying , Li Xiao , Zhang Guo-qiang , Xi Chuang , Shen Chen-tian , Song Hong-jun , Bai Wen-kun , Qiu Zhong-ling , Luo Quan yong
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

Endothelial dysfunction, which was associated with chronic hypothyroidism, was an early event in atherosclerosis. Whether short-term hypothyroidism following thyroxine withdrawal during radioiodine (RAI) therapy was associated with endothelial dysfunction in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) was unclear. Aim of the study is to assess whether short-term hypothyroidism could impair endothelial function in the whole process of RAI therapy.

Methods:

We recruited fifty-one patients who underwent surgery and would accept RAI therapy for DTC. We analyzed thyroid function, endothelial function and serum lipids levels in patients at three time points: the day before thyroxine withdrawal (P1), the day before RAI administration (P2) and 4–6 weeks after RAI therapy (P3). A high-resolution ultrasound named flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was used to measure endothelial function of the patients.

Results:

We defined the FMD(%) value decreasing by more than 1% as impaired value. We analyzed the changes of FMD, thyroid hormone and lipids at three time points. FMD (%) was impaired at P2 compared to P1 and was recovered at P3 after restoring LT4 therapy (P1 vs P2 vs P3, 8.05±1.55 vs 7.26±1.50 vs 7.79 ± 1.38, P = 0.438). Among all parameters, the change of LDL cholesterol (ΔLDL) was the only factor correlated negatively with the change of FMD (ΔFMD) throughout the RAI therapy process (P1 − 2, r=-0.326, P = 0.020; P2 − 3, r=-0.306, P = 0.029).

Conclusion:

Endothelial function was transiently impaired in DTC patients at short-term hypothyroidism state during the RAI therapy, and immediately returned to the same state before RAI therapy after restoring LT4 therapy.
In vitro evaluation of dental color stability using various esthetic restorative materials after immersion in different drinks
Authors: Faris Tavga Mustafa , Abdulrahim Rukhosh Hasan , Mahmood Mohammed Abdullah , Mhammed Gollshang Ahmed , Hamakareem Sarhang Sarwat
Published: October 2022

Background
Currently, the demands for restorations have increased considerably; thus, improvements and modifications have been made in dental composite technologies especially using materials that have claimed to improve color stability.
Objective
This study aimed to determine the effect of restorative materials on dental color stability in vitro using various solutions.
Methods
In this study, the study samples were composed of 45 discs from different restorative materials (15 micro-hybrids, 15 nano-hybrids, and 15 glass ionomers). These discs were immersed in various beverages an hour a day for one month at room temperature. The color stability was measured using a spectrophotometer before/after immersion (days 7 and 30).
Results
We realized a significant difference in color change with Coca-Cola and tea after 7 days and 30 days (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference in the samples immersed in DM after seven days and 30 days (p > 0.05) was found. The highest value of lightness (∆L), and stainability (∆a) was seen in micro-hybrid after 30 days of immersion in tea solution (-12.16 ± 1.74 and 11.4 ± 3.82, respectively), while most samples had a positive ∆b value.
Conclusion
The black-tea affected the color stability of all used restorative materials after one month. In addition, micro-hybrid had higher color stability than nano-hybrid and glass ionomer.
The testing of skydiving equipment in the context of global warming and its impact on the vertical rate of the parachute descent
Authors: Kalavsky Peter , Rozenberg Robert , Tobisova Alica
Published: October 2022

Climate change has impacts on various areas of our lives. The aim of the article is to point out the impact of climate change in a very specific area, namely in the field of skydiving. The article is devoted to the issue of increasing the vertical speed of parachutes due to global warming and the impact of this increased speed on the overload acting on the human body during landing. This issue is a key stage in testing equipment for the skydiving and also for the paragliding and for the parachute rescue of flight crews. For these purposes, the vertical speed of the selected parachute was determined by means of test jumps using the classical method of measuring the vertical speed of parachutes. The article presents the theoretical basis of this method, the measurement methodology itself and the results of verification measurements (testing parachute jumps). Part of the article is the analysis of influencing factors and quantification of their impact on the accuracy of measuring the vertical speed of the parachute using this method. The experimental data thus obtained are then used to quantify the effect of temperature change on the rate of descent of the parachute and on the overload acting on the human body during the landing with the parachute in the context of global warming.