bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transport Characteristics of Tailing Sand Particles under Slotted Tube Overlapped with Geotextile and Steel Mesh
Authors: Yang Chun-bo , Wang Lin-bing , Wang Yuan , Li Qing-wen , Huang Jing-qi
Published: January 2023

Compared with a one-dimensional test, a two-dimensional test has the potential to study the transport characteristics of particles in tailings under different filtration materials. Due to the different test conditions and the complex test environment, the existing devices generally have limited measuring range or high accuracy. Thus, it is urgent to develop an advanced device to improve the ability of the transport characteristics of particles. In this study, a two-dimensional radial flow device is designed for analyzing the transport characteristics of particles which combine the water tank with adjustable pressure and the seepage body providing a tailing sand environment. An experimental system is built, and a seepage process is carried out to explore the transport characteristics of particles. The results indicate that when head difference remains stable, the mixture consisting of the tailing sand and water gradually transports to the vicinity of the slotted tube along the diameter direction. With an increase in head difference, the tailing sand particle size in the mixture shows a slow upward trend, which migrates in the tailing sand. And the proportion of tailing sand particles with different sizes varies under different head differences. Separation of the mixture consisting of tailing sand particles and water occurs near infiltration material, while the mixture has different transportation laws under different filtration materials. Under geotextile, most fine tailing sand particles which transport from the edge remain in geotextiles, causing an increase in the proportion of fine particles around the slotted tube. However, most fine particles pass through steel mesh, leading to a decrease in the proportion of fine particles.
HIV-Associated Vacuolar Myelopathy and HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder as an Initial Presentation in HIV Infection
Authors: Asaduzzaman Md , Das Atonu , Das Sowmitra , Khadija Shamma Mahfuza , Kalam Mohammed Shoab Abul , Kumar Roy Biplob
Published: January 2023

Several neurological disorders have been described in HIV infection. Vacuolar myelopathy and neurocognitive disorders usually come at an advanced stage of the disease process. Here, we present a case where these features constitute the presenting complaints. Both of these conditions improved significantly following the start of HAART. We believe this clinical pathway can be a good learning point for the clinician.
Vertebral Augmentation for Painful Type 4 Osteoporotic Compression Fractures: A Comparative Study
Authors: Abdalla Mohamed Abdelrahman , Rodrigues Ricardo , Ulbricht Christian
Published: January 2023

Background. Type 4 osteoporotic fracture (OF4), according to the classification system of the Spine Section of the German Society for Orthopaedics and Trauma (DGOU), is unstable and requires fixation as per the guidelines of the same group. We evaluated the use of stand-alone vertebral body augmentation (VBA) in pain control of OF4. Methods. This is a single-centre, in two hospitals, comparative study to evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and kyphoplasty (KP) in pain control of OF4. OF4 patients treated with VBA were compared to a conservatively treated control group. The two groups of OF4 were then compared to similar cohort of OF2 and OF3 patients who were treated by either VBA or expectantly. Results. A total of 78 cases were studied. VBA of OF4 showed a statistically significant better pain control than conservative treatment. The response of this group of fractures to VBA was similar to that of OF2 and 3. Conclusion. VBA can provide satisfactory pain control for OF4 patients.
Morphometry and Molecular Identification of Haemonchus Cobb, 1898 (Trichostrongylidae: Nematoda) Isolates from Small Ruminants in Tanzania Based on Mitochondrial cox 1 and rRNA-ITS genes
Authors: Ndosi Barakaeli Abdieli , Lee Dongmin , Bia Mohammed Mebarek , Yang Heejae , Hong Min-Ji , Seo Sungbo , Park Hansol , Eom Keeseon S.
Published: January 2023

The genus Haemonchus is the major abomasal parasite of ruminants responsible for substantial economic losses in tropical and temperate regions. This study was conducted to clarify the morphometry and molecular characterisation of Haemonchus species isolated from sheep in Babati district, Tanzania. A total of 486 trichostrongylid nematodes were recovered from five sheep. Of the total worms, 106 nematodes were distinguished by 37 males and 69 females. The asymmetrical length of dorsal ray and the distance of bulb at the apex of spicules were used for identification of males. In females, the linguiform vulvar flap was the most predominant with 33 out of 69 (48%) compared with knobbed morph type which was 25/69 (36%) and smooth morph type with 11/69 (16%). Partial cox1 sequence fragments of Haemonchus contortus isolates showed 98.8%, 99.3%, 99.7%, 99.5%, 99.3%, and 98.4% in male, smooth, knobbed, linguiform A, linguiform B, and linguiform C, respectively; with the average nucleotide divergence ranged from 1.03 to 2.35%. The amplified fragments of ITS-2 genes in knobbed, linguiform A, and smooth morphotypes revealed 99.4%, 98.5%, and 98.3%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis was evaluated by employing Bayesian inference and maximum-likelihood, and the tree was distinctly separated into three clusters focusing on H. contortus in cluster I within the family Haemonchidae. Genetic drifting, mutation, and modification of the morphological features of the Haemonchus species described to have an impact on the development of drug resistance. Species identification is necessary to understand which species infect animal host. We recommend more studies on the parasites intensity and the strategies for controlling Haemonchus species in Tanzania.
Design and Measurement of a Vibrating Intrinsic Reverberation Chamber Working in Tuned Mode
Authors: Cheng Erwei , Wang Pingping , Xu Qian , Meng Cui , Jia Rui
Published: January 2023

In this letter, a vibrating intrinsic reverberation chamber (VIRC) working in mode tuning is designed and fabricated; the designed RC is made of a highly electrically conductive silver fabric. A stepper motor is used to tune the cavity surface step by step along its normal direction, and an RC with vibrating wall is realized. The corresponding relationship between the vibrating amplitude and frequency of use is calculated. A test system is developed and the performance of VIRC is experimentally verified. Measurement results show that the measured E-field samples follow a Rician distribution, and the standard deviation of the space E-field is less than 3 dB, which meets the requirements of statistical uniformity tolerance in IEC 61000-4-21.
Evaluation of the Combination of Metformin and Rapamycin in an MPP+-Treated SH-SY5Y Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Norradee Chureerat , Khwanraj Kawinthra , Balit Tatcha , Dharmasaroja Permphan
Published: January 2023

Metformin (MET) and rapamycin (RAPA) have been reported to protect against neurodegeneration in cellular and animal models of Parkinson’s disease (PD). MET, which is a first-line drug for type 2 diabetes, and RAPA are known as mTORC1 inhibitors. MET also acts as an AMPK activator, which leads to the inhibition of mTORC1 activity. mTORC1 is a downstream target of Akt signaling. Inactivation of Akt/mTORC1 and its downstream S6K1 can promote autophagy, a process involved in PD pathogenesis. Based on their mechanisms and potential benefits, we evaluated the potential protective effect of pretreatment with combinations of MET and RAPA in a 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+)-treated SH-SY5Y neuronal cell model of PD. The results showed that MET and RAPA combinations lowered cell viability after exposure to MPP+. Increased LC3-II levels by MPP+ were not altered by MET and RAPA pretreatment. In normal neuronal cells, MET and RAPA pretreatment inhibited the phosphorylation of both Akt and S6K1, and the phosphorylation remained suppressed after MPP+ exposure. These findings suggest that when cells were exposed to MPP+, suppressed phosphorylation of both Akt and S6K1 by the MET and RAPA combination may lead to an inappropriate autophagic response, resulting in increased cell death.
The Effectiveness of Personalized Nursing on Quality of Life in Cardiovascular Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Min , Ta Na , Bai Xue , Wei Chengxi , Sun Chengshan , Han Chunjuan
Published: January 2023

Aims. This study aimed to examine the potential effectiveness of personalized nursing interventions on improving the heart‐related quality of life of patients with CVDs versus an usual care. Design. A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Data Sources. The study researched the article between January 2011 and December 2021 from four electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Web of Science. Review Methods. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to personalized nursing in CVDs population were included. The main variables were analyzed by standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals and heterogeneity was used by the I2 test and P value. Results. Of 734 studies, fourteen articles were eligible for this study. Personalized nursing significantly improved the quality of life [SMD = 0.39, 95% CI (0.29, 0.49)] with obvious heterogeneity (P = 0.000, I2 = 66.1%) which needs to be further subgroup analyzed. The nurse‐led intervention was considered the main‐related effect to influence the heterogeneity with value of 0.39 (I2 = 66.1%, P = 0.000; Group 1: I2 = 48.4%, P = 0.071, and Group 2: I2 = 0.0%,. In addition, related results of athletic ability and mental health and follow‐up and education in the intervention had higher level of quality of life compared to the control group [SMD = 0.27, 95% CI (0.10, 0.44); SMD = 0.21, 95% CI (0.04, 0.37); SMD = 0.39, 95% CI (0.29, 0.49) and SMD = 0.28, 95% CI (0.11, 0.44)]. Conclusion. Effectiveness studies of personalized care focus on more relevant outcomes have higher health outcomes, whereas evidence of the effectiveness of personalized nursing approach is still limited. Therefore, more and more high‐quality RCT are needed.
Tent Space Approach of Morrey Spaces and Their Application to Duality and Complex Interpolation
Authors: Ono Takahiro
Published: January 2023

The aim in this paper is to establish a new duality property of Morrey spaces and to discover the complex interpolation space between Morrey spaces and Lebesgue spaces. For that purpose, a new space

N

p
,
q

s

R

n

is introduced by using methods of tent spaces. The space generalizes Morrey spaces and Lebesgue spaces. Furthermore, this scale of spaces is amenable to the complex interpolation space.
The Effect of the Interaction between Abnormal Body Mass Index and Hypertension on the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hu Conghui , Su Yinxia , Hu Xiaoyuan , Luo Kun , Abudireyimu Alimire , Li Yuanyuan , Yao Hua
Published: January 2023

Objective. Many patients with type 2 diabetes have an abnormal body mass index (BMI) and hypertension together, but few studies on the interaction of the two on the risk of T2DM are reported. We aim to explore the effect of the interaction between abnormal BMI and hypertension on the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Uyghur residents. Methods and Results. Based on the physical examination data of 27,4819 Uygur residents in Moyu County, a logistic regression model was used to analyze the correlation between BMI abnormality, hypertension, and T2DM disease, and then, the effect of their interaction on the risk of T2DM was evaluated by an additive model and a multiplicative model. The results showed that the detectable rate of T2DM was 5.58%, the proportion of abnormal BMI was 59.49%, and the proportion of hypertension was 25.14%. The risk of T2DM in people with an abnormal BMI and hypertension was higher than that in people with a normal weight and without hypertension, and the difference was statistically significant

P
<
0.05

. The additive model showed that after adjusting for confounding factors such as gender, age, family history of diabetes, abdominal obesity, and alcohol consumption, abnormal BMI and hypertension had a synergistic effect on the risk of T2DM and the evaluation indicators RERI, AP, and S were 0.90 (0.32∼1.49), 0.20 (0.11∼0.30), and 1.36 (1.17∼1.57), respectively. But there was no multiplicative interaction between the two (OR = 0.97, (95% CI: 0.89∼1.06). 3). Conclusion. The interaction between abnormal BMI and hypertension can increase the risk of T2DM, and improving BMI and controlling blood pressure within the normal range can effectively reduce the risk of T2DM.
The Effect of Lateral Wedge Insole on Gait Variability Assessed Using Wearable Sensors in Patients with Medial Compartment Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ishii Yosuke , Ishikawa Masakazu , Kurumadani Hiroshi , Sunagawa Toru , Date Shota , Takahashi Makoto , Iwamoto Yoshitaka , Adachi Nobuo
Published: January 2023

Background. Lateral thrust seen in people with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis can cause dynamic knee instability and poor postural control during gait cycles. A lateral wedge insole can reduce the lateral thrust and may have a favorable effect on gait variability, which in turn may indicate gait instability improves. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lateral wedge insole on gait variability in knee osteoarthritis patients. Method. We involved 15 symptomatic knee osteoarthritis patients who were provided with lateral wedge insole and 13 healthy asymptomatic volunteers as the control group. The gait variability was evaluated as the coefficient of variation of stride, stance, and swing duration based on acceleration monitoring using a wearable sensor. The lateral thrust was estimated as the lateral acceleration peak on the shank sensor. These measurements were performed without lateral wedge insole (baseline), immediately with lateral wedge insole (T0) at the initial office visit and one month after intervention (T1). Result. Our data showed that the stance duration coefficient of variation and lateral thrust at T1 in the knee osteoarthritis group, were significantly decreased compared to the baseline values and these values were identical to those in the control group. Conclusion. The lateral wedge insole reduces dynamic knee instability and could improve gait variability in medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.
Study on the Performance of Expansive Subgrade Soil Stabilized with Enset Ash
Authors: Neguse Derara , Assefa Eleyas , Assefa S. M.
Published: January 2023

This paper deals with the effect of Enset ash on the mechanical property of expansive soil used as a subgrade material in road construction works. To investigate the influence of Enset ash on the behavior of expansive soils, laboratory tests were conducted according to AASHTO, ASTM, IS, and BS standards. The laboratory results show that the expansive soil belongs to the A-7-5 class of soil in AASHTO and CH class in the USCS. The liquid limit, plasticity index, free swell index, and free swell ratio of the soil have decreased with the increasing content of Enset ash. The strength test result shows CBR and UCS, and OMC increases and decreases in MDD value with increasing content of Enset ash. The microstructural properties of natural soil and stabilized soil were selected based on strength properties and were observed by a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging device, and the result clearly shows the alteration in the fabric and morphology of the natural soil. The mineralogical composition of expansive soil is identified by XRD, and the result shows that the expansive soil in the study area is mainly composed of quartz and montmorillonite, which separately take up 50% and 38.5% of the total air-dried sample, while the percentage of kaolinite was 11.5%. From this study, it has been found that Enset ash stabilized soil that satisfies the minimum requirement of the Ethiopian Road Authority pavement manual specification for use as a subgrade material in road construction works.
Analysis of Maximizing the Power Output of Switched Reluctance Generator Using Different Core Materials
Authors: Ramkumar M. , Latha K.
Published: January 2023

Switched reluctance generator (SRG) has become the key focus of research for its usage in wind power generation. The sizing and performance of SRG depend on the core material used for the stator and rotor. This paper analyses the impact of the magnetic loading of different core materials on the performance of SRG in terms of self-inductance, torque, iron losses, ohmic losses, and generated voltage. 1 kW SRG with different pole configuration 8/6 SRG and 12/8 SRG for the wind speed of 3 m/s to 6 m/s has been designed. Static and dynamic analyses using the finite element analysis (FEA) were carried out for analytically designed 1 kW SRG with different core materials with the same lamination thickness. Prototypes of 8/6 SRG and 12/8 SRG are fabricated. The output of simulation results has been validated by experimental measurements.
A Conservative Approach by Unilateral Maximal Single-Muscle Recession Surgery for the Treatment of Cyclic Esotropia
Authors: Evereklioglu Cem , Horozoğlu Fatih , Sener Hidayet , Polat Osman Ahmet
Published: January 2023

Purpose. Cyclic esotropia (alternate-day squint) is a poorly understood form of strabismus that mostly occurs at younger pediatric ages. It demonstrates classically a 48-hour cycle with 24 hours of manifest esotropia and 24 hours of orthotropia, which is conventionally managed by bilateral or unilateral 2-muscle surgery. We aimed to report a child with cyclic esotropia who was surgically treated by a conservative unilateral 1-muscle approach. Methods. Case report. Results. A 3.5-year-old girl presented to the strabismus department with an intermittent esodeviation for 2 years that became cyclic in the last 3 months. The diagnosis of primary classical cyclic esotropia was made after seeing her multiple times on different days. The girl was emmetropic bilaterally, had normal visual acuities in both eyes, and high-angle right esodeviation (45-50Δ) with normal laboratory and MRI results. Unilateral maximal single-muscle recession of the right medial rectus was performed, and the child was followed up for 9 months. The girl developed excellent alignment after the surgery both at distance and near without cyclic pattern, and near-normal stereopsis (by animals: 100 sec. of arc) with binocularity was reached. The girl did not experience under- or overcorrection nor have a recurrence postoperatively. Conclusion. This is the first report of “one eye single-muscle” surgery for high-angle cyclic esotropia. Conservative unilateral medial rectus recession seems to be sufficient to permanently block the circadian rhythm and restore binocular fusion and stereopsis.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Pharmacokinetic Studies of Thiazolidine-2,4-Dione Derivatives
Authors: Ansari Bushra , Khan Haroon , Jan Muhammad Saeed , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Rashid Umer , Pirzada Abdul Saboor
Published: January 2023

Various derivatives of thiazolidine-2,4-dione (C1–C5) were designed and synthesized by chemical reaction with 4-nitrobenzaldehyde using Knoevenagel reaction conditions which results in the reduction of nitro group to amine and further modification results in target compounds. The chemical structures of all the 2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives have been elucidated by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. These compounds were further characterized by in silico ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) studies. The pharmacokinetic properties were assessed by SwissADME software. The in silico ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) assessment reveals that all derivatives (C1 to C5) have 5 to 7 rotatable bonds. Lipophilicity and water solubility showed that C1, C2, and C4 are water soluble except for C3 and C5 which are moderately soluble. All the compounds have high GI absorption except C3. None of the derivatives are blood-brain barrier permeant. Drug metabolism of TZDs derivatives showed that C3 was identified as an inhibitor of CYP2C9 and C5 as an inhibitor of CYP1A2 and CYP2C19. Drug likeness properties indicate that C1 has only one violation of the Ghose rule while C3 has violations in the Ghose and Egan rules. The in silico pharmacokinetic studies revealed high GI absorption and the inability to pass blood-brain barrier which can be further assessed by in vitro and in vivo antihyperglycemic activity. This study will contribute to providing TZDs derivatives with an improved pharmacokinetic profile and decreased toxicity.
The Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms rs4143370 and rs34904192 in MIR155HG Were Associated with Esophageal Cancer Risk in the Chinese Han Population
Authors: Jia Zhuoqi , Zhou Weiru , Liang Jing , Zhang Guangjian , Fu Junke , Sun Xuejun
Published: January 2023

Introduction: MIR155HG has been found to play an important role in malignant tumors, but little research has been done on its association with esophageal cancer (ESCC). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between MIR155HG polymorphisms and ESCC susceptibility in the Chinese Han population. Methods: 511 ESCC patients and 487 healthy controls were selected for this study. All subjects were genotyped using the Agena MassARRAY platform. We assessed the association between seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MIR155HG and ESCC risk by genetic model analysis. The false discovery rate (FDR) test and Bonferroni correction were usually used to detect false positives for the results. Meanwhile, the interaction between SNPs was analyzed by multifactor dimensionality reduction software to predict the ESCC risk. Results: The C allele of rs4143370 and the A allele of rs34904192 in MIR155HG can increase the risk of ESCC (odds ratio (OR) = 1.33, p = 0.024; OR = 1.30, p = 0.013). Furthermore, rs4143370 and rs34904192 were associated with an increased risk of ESCC. Stratified analysis showed that MIR155HG SNPs (rs4143370 and rs34904192) significantly increased ESCC risk in males. MIR155HG SNPs (rs4143370, rs34904192, and rs928883) were also strongly associated with an increased risk of ESCC in people aged >64 years. In addition, haplotype analysis of the seven SNPs of the MIR155HG showed that the CC haplotype was associated with ESCC risk (OR = 1.34, p = 0.024). Conclusion: This study revealed that MIR155HG SNPs were associated with an increased risk of ESCC. The results provided clues for clarifying the role of MIR155HG in ESCC.
Anxiety and Associated Factors during the COVID-19 Pandemic Confinement in the Moroccan Adult Celiac Disease Population
Authors: Boutahar Kaltoum , Ihbour Said , Hadi Karima , Kaoutar Kamal , Chetoui Ahmed , El Kardoudi Abdesalam , Najimi Mohamed , Chigr Fatiha
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The widespread lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic was insured by Moroccan authorities in early 2020 to preserve the health of citizens. The lockdown and the pandemic imposed psychological effects on the population including anxiety. Celiac disease (CeD), a chronic disease among the most common inflammatory intestinal disorders, has been linked to adult emotional disturbances. Hence, CeD patients may suffer from anxiety or increase this condition due to the concomitant situation. The objective of this study was to assess COVID-19-related anxiety in a sample of adults with CeD in comparison with a matched healthy group. Method: CeD patients (103) and matched healthy group (101) were investigated using a web-based COVID-19 and related lockdown anxiety survey. Anxiety was assessed with the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI test: Y1 for state anxiety and Y2 for trait anxiety). Results: State anxiety was present among 65.3% of CeD and 41.6% of the comparison group, and the difference was statistically significant. CeD women suffered more from state anxiety than their compeers in the comparison group (t = 3.23; p = 0.002), and a significant correlation between good compliance to GFD and less state anxiety was found among CeD patients (r = 0.31; p = 0.002). 61.8% of CeD participants thought they were at higher risk of contamination by COVID-19, and they were mostly women (χ2 = 7.66, p < 0.006) and had significantly higher state anxiety mean scores than their compatriots who did not express these thoughts (t = 2.93; p = 0.004). Additionally, 41.5% of CeD participants had anxiety as a trait against 26.7% in the comparison group and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant. Conclusion: Results of this survey allow a better understanding of the health-related pandemic effects on Moroccan CeD patients. It demonstrates that COVID-19 and related lockdowns had a serious impact on the psychological balance of these patients by increasing their anxiety. The survey results underlined the need to improve the psychological care of CeD patients notably by considering remote medical visits during this ongoing pandemic to provide mental health support.
Predictors of Women’s Intentions to Communicate Updated Genetic Test Results to Immediate and Extended Family Members
Authors: Winskill Carolyn , Goodman Melody S. , Daly Brianne M. , Elrick Ashley , Mooney Ryan , Espinel Whitney , Kohlmann Wendy , Kaphingst Kimberly A.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Many individuals who previously received negative genetic test results are eligible for updated testing. This study examined intention to communicate updated genetic test results to relatives in participants who previously received negative genetic test results. Methods: Women with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer who tested negative for BRCA1/2 before 2013 were enrolled between April 2018 and October 2019. Proportions were calculated to assess intention to communicate updated genetic test results to living immediate family, extended family, and all family. Potential predictors of intentions from the theory of planned behavior (attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control) were assessed. The three outcomes were analyzed using generalized linear models with a quasi-binomial probability distribution. Results: 110 women completed the baseline assessment prior to updated testing. Participants intended to communicate genetic test results to 90% of immediate family, 51% of extended family, and 66% of all living relatives. Participants with higher subjective norms (aOR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.08–3.57) had higher intentions to communicate genetic test results to extended family, while participants with more positive attitudes (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.01–1.60) had higher intentions to communicate to all family. Placing higher importance on genetic information was associated with higher intentions to communicate to immediate family (aOR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.06–1.83). Lower subjective numeracy was associated with higher intentions to communicate to extended family (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.32–0.76). Conclusion: Attitudes and subjective norms were predictors of intention to communicate updated genetic information to at-risk biological relatives, and predictors may vary by degree of relationship.
Feasibility and Safety of Endosonography-Guided Transvascular Needle Aspiration in the Diagnosis of Thoracic and Abdominal Lesions: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Huizhen , Yang Wuchen , Zhang Xiaoju , Zhang Quncheng , Wang Ziqi , Chen Chuanliang , Herth Felix J.F.
Published: January 2023

Background: Endoscopic techniques, including endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), are used as the initial approach for the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer and the diagnosis of thoracic and abdominal lesions. Historically, the transvascular approach has been avoided because of concerns about bleeding. Objectives: This article is a systematic review of studies evaluating the feasibility and safety of transvascular needle aspiration (TVNA) under the guidance of EBUS or EUS in the diagnosis of thoracic and abdominal lesions. Methods: We performed a systematic search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases to identify studies evaluating the application of EBUS/EUS-guided TVNA (EBUS/EUS-TVNA) for lesions located at the contralateral side of the vessel for which the transvascular approach was the best puncture path. We performed a meta-analysis of diagnostic yield estimations. We also reviewed the complications related to the procedure. Results: Eleven observational studies were included in the final analysis. Meta-analysis yielded a pooled overall diagnostic yield of 82.10% (95% confidence interval, 0.74–0.89) for TVNA, with an I2 value of 52%. No publication bias was detected by Egger’s test (p = 0.8528). The overall complications included minor bleeding, minor hematoma, pseudo­aneurysm of the aorta, hemoptysis, acute hypoxic respiratory failure, and moderate bleeding. The major complication rate was 2.71%. Conclusions: EBUS/EUS-TVNA is feasible and probably safe when performed by experienced endoscopists in carefully selected patients. In view of the potential risks associated with the transvascular approach, especially the development of hematoma and pseudoaneurysm, the fanning technique was avoided, and the area of aspiration should be assessed by EUS for 3 min after each aspiration. Most importantly, EBUS/EUS-TVNA should only be performed if the results will impact the clinical management.
Endlich! Eine randomisiert-kontrollierte Phase-2-Studie bei chILD: Ist der Einsatz von Hydroxychloroquin sinnvoll?
Authors: Polke Markus
Published: January 2023

Background: No results of controlled trials are available for any of the few treatments offered to children with interstitial lung diseases (chILD). We evaluated hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in a phase 2, prospective, multicentre, 1:1-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group/crossover trial. HCQ (START arm) or placebo were given for 4 weeks. Then all subjects received HCQ for another 4 weeks. In the STOP arm subjects already taking HCQ were randomized to 12 weeks of HCQ or placebo (= withdrawal of HCQ). Then all subjects stopped treatment and were observed for another 12 weeks. Results: 26 subjects were included in the START arm, 9 in the STOP arm, of these four subjects participated in both arms. The primary endpoint, presence or absence of a response to treatment, assessed as oxygenation (calculated from a change in transcutaneous O2-saturation of ≥ 5%, respiratory rate ≥ 20% or level of respiratory support), did not differ between placebo and HCQ groups. Secondary endpoints including change of O2-saturation ≥ 3%, health related quality of life, pulmonary function and 6-min-walk-test distance, were not different between groups. Finally combining all placebo and all HCQ treatment periods did not identify significant treatment effects. Overall effect sizes were small. HCQ was well tolerated, adverse events were not different between placebo and HCQ. Conclusions: Acknowledging important shortcomings of the study, including a small study population, the treatment duration, lack of outcomes like lung function testing below age of 6 years, the small effect size of HCQ treatment observed requires careful reassessments of prescriptions in everyday practice (EudraCT-Nr.: 2013-003714-40, www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu, registered 02.07.2013). Registration: The study was registered on 2 July 2013 (Eudra-CT Number: 2013-003714-40), whereas the approval by BfArM was received 24.11.2014, followed by the approval by the lead EC of the University Hospital Munich on 20.01.2015. At clinicaltrials.gov the trial was additionally registered on November 8, 2015 (NCT02615938).
Ambulant erworbene Pneumonie: Entscheidung zu stationärer Aufnahme sollte geriatrische Probleme berücksichtigen
Authors: Frohnhofen Helmut
Published: January 2023

Background: Researchers have linked cardiovascular disease (CVD) with advancing age; however, how it drives disease progression in elderly severe community acquired pneumonia (SCAP) patients is still unclear. This study aims to identify leading risk predictors of in-hospital mortality in elderly SCAP patients with CVD, and construct a comprehensive nomogram for providing personalized prediction. Patients and methods: The study retrospectively enrolled 2365 elderly patients identified SCAP. Among them, 413 patients were found to have CVD. The LASSO regression and multivariate logistic regression analysis were utilized to select potential predictors of in-hospital mortality in elderly SCAP patients with CVD. By incorporating these features, a nomogram was then developed and subjected to internal validations. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical use of the nomogram were assessed via C-index, calibration curve analysis, and decision plot. Results: Compared with patients without CVD, elderly SCAP patients with CVD had a significant poor outcome. Further analysis of the CVD population identified 7 independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality in elderly SCAP patients, including age, the use of vasopressor, numbers of primary symptoms, body temperature, monocyte, CRP and NLR. The nomogram model incorporated these 7 predictors showed sufficient predictive accuracy, with the C-index of 0.800 (95% CI 0.758–0.842). High C-index value of 0.781 was obtained in the internal validation via bootstrapping validation. Moreover, the calibration curve indicative a good consistency of risk prediction, and the decision curve manifested that the nomogram had good overall net benefits. Conclusion: An integrated nomogram was developed to facilitate the personalized prediction of in-hospital mortality in elderly SCAP patients with CVD.
A graduate’s employability study of bachelor of science in entrepreneurship of Isabela State University, Philippines
Authors: Alvarez Ma Teresa Silos , Cammayo Eva Uminga
Published: January 2023

The bachelor of science in entrepreneurship (BSE) program is offered to address the needs of learners who want to obtain a degree adapted to their talents and abilities to contribute to the industrialization of the country. To assess transparency, the college has the responsibility to keep track of the success of its graduates and whether their curriculum has affected the person, the society, or the country. The graduate tracer analysis will aid in evaluating the employability of the graduate and define the multiple variables that will act as a framework for optimizing students’ college instruction and facilities. In this tracer study, 69 alumni who graduated from 2013 to 2017 were surveyed using a modified graduate tracer study (GTS) instrument, administered using social media and other digital platforms. The contribution to alumni employability of factors: curriculum, student services, facilities, faculty competence, methods of instruction, and career guidance-were quantified and ranked. Based on the results, the most significant factors contributing to alumni employability were course content/curriculum, student services (training, seminars), and facilities. As such, the researchers recommend strengthening the BSE curriculum, conducting employee training and seminars, and streamlining administrative facilities.
Blended learning model towards vocational students’ learning outcomes: A scoping review
Authors: Basori Basori , Sajidan Sajidan , Akhyar Muhammad , Wiranto Wiranto
Published: January 2023

The learning characteristic in the 21st century is the availability of information anywhere and anytime. Blended learning (BL) became the most widely used learning strategy in vocational education. However, the problem is the effectiveness of BL on student outcomes. This scoping review provides an overview of the implementation of the BL model on vocational students. The research questions in this review were: i) What type of BL was taken?; ii) How did the BL model works?; and iii) What was improved in student learning outcomes? The research method adopted the scoping review from Arksey & Markey. From the beginning, the research article data was taken from the Scopus database. The article selection using the PRISMA method obtained 32 articles from 4,298 articles. The results of the review showed that there were three types of BL models. The three types of BL were: i) The flipped classroom model; ii) The station-rotation model; and iii) The self-blend model. BL syntax that teachers most favored in nine ways, but mainly with the syntax: “Face-to-face (F2F) finished, after that online learning for enrichment”. Meanwhile, most of the articles improved learning outcomes in the cognitive domain.
Reviewing of Indonesian students’ scientific communication skills: A structural equation modeling analysis
Authors: Khoiriah Khoiriah , Suyatna Agus , Abdurrahman Abdurrahman , Jalmo Tri
Published: January 2023

To ensure the success of science learning oriented to higher order thinking skills, especially scientific communication skills (SCS), valid and effective instruments are needed. The existing instruments, although helpful, are still too general and have not touched the socio-cultural context. Therefore, we developed an instrument to measure SCS according to the characteristics of students in Indonesia. This study tested the validity, reliability and assumptions of the hypothetical model of the scientific communication skills inventory (SCSI) instrument developed. This study involved 1,287 students in Indonesia. The test was carried out through confirmatory factor analysis with structural equation modelling (SEM) using AMOS version 21. The results of the analysis show that the reliability of the instrument based on Cronbach’s alpha coefficient is 0.720. The convergent validity test detected one item of the oral presentation indicator as invalid and the discriminant validity test confirmed that all instrument items were declared valid. The goodness of fit test shows all scores according to the recommended standard criteria so that SCSI can be used to identify the SCS ability profile of students in Indonesia. For further research, we recommend the development of a learning model that prioritizes the context of social issues to grow students’ SCS.
Personality traits, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, and entrepreneurial intention among vocational students
Authors: Juhari Halimatun Saadiah , Ismail Normala , Roslan Samsilah , Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab
Published: January 2023

Entrepreneurship in technical and vocational education is a current and relevant topic. While the role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and personality traits as determinants of entrepreneurial intention (EI) has been extensively studied, the role of ESE and personality traits as determinants of vocational students’ EI is still poorly understood. Thus, this study employed ESE and big five personality traits to explore the determinants of EI among vocational college students. This study’s survey had a sample size of 162 technical vocational education and training (TVET) college students, enrolled in technology in automotive, technology in welding, and technology in refrigeration and air conditioning programs. Data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and Multiple Linear Regression. The results indicate that apart from neuroticism, openness to experience, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and extraversion were positively associated with EI. The results also confirm that ESE is a predictor of EI. Going forward, the article intends to contribute to a better understanding of ESE and personality traits that influence vocational students’ EI, as well as provide some important insights into the unique aspects of TVETs that empower youth to actively participate in micro-entrepreneurial initiatives. This study encourages academics and policymakers to reconsider the approach used in entrepreneurship education in the vocational setup.
Large‐Scale Metabolomics and the Incidence of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Lind Lars , Fall Tove , Ärnlöv Johan , Elmståhl Sölve , Sundström Johan
Published: January 2023

Background

The study aimed to show the relationship between a large number of circulating metabolites and subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD) and subclinical markers of CVD in the general population.

Methods and Results

In 2278 individuals free from CVD in the EpiHealth study (aged 45–75 years, mean age 61 years, 50% women), 790 annotated nonxenobiotic metabolites were measured by mass spectroscopy (Metabolon). The same metabolites were measured in the PIVUS (Prospective Investigation of Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors) study (n=603, all aged 80 years, 50% women), in which cardiac and carotid artery pathologies were evaluated by ultrasound. During a median follow‐up of 8.6 years, 107 individuals experienced a CVD (fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure) in EpiHealth. Using a false discovery rate of 0.05 for age‐ and sex‐adjusted analyses and
P
<0.05 for adjustment for traditional CVD risk factors, 37 metabolites were significantly related to incident CVD. These metabolites belonged to multiple biochemical classes, such as amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides. Top findings were dimethylglycine and N‐acetylmethionine. A lasso selection of 5 metabolites improved discrimination when added on top of traditional CVD risk factors (+4.0%,
P
=0.0054). Thirty‐five of the 37 metabolites were related to subclinical markers of CVD evaluated in the PIVUS study. The metabolite 1‐carboxyethyltyrosine was associated with left atrial diameter as well as inversely related to both ejection fraction and the echogenicity of the carotid artery.

Conclusions

Several metabolites were discovered to be associated with future CVD, as well as with subclinical markers of CVD. A selection of metabolites improved discrimination when added on top of CVD risk factors.
Long‐Term Outcomes and Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Coronary Intervention With Second‐Generation Drug‐Eluting Stents: The Veterans Affairs Extended DAPT Study
Authors: Kinlay Scott , Young Melissa M. , Sherrod Rebecca , Gagnon David R.
Published: January 2023

Background

Recent guidelines on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) balance the subsequent risks of major bleeding with ischemic events. Although generally favoring shorter DAPT duration with second‐generation drug‐eluting stents, the effects on long‐term outcomes in the wider population are uncertain.

Methods and Results

We tracked all patients having PCI with second‐generation drug‐eluting stents in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System between 2006 and 2016 for death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major bleeding up to 13 years. We compared these outcomes with 4 DAPT durations of 1 to 5, 6 to 9, 10 to 12, and 13 to 18 months after the index PCI using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs from Cox proportional hazards models adjusted by inverse probability weighting. A total of 40 882 subjects with PCI were followed up for a median of 4.3 (25%–75%: 2.4–6.5) years. DAPT discontinuation was rare early after PCI (5.8% at 1–5 months and 6.3% at 6–9 months) but increased (19% and 44%) >9 months. The risk of cardiovascular and noncardiovascular death was higher (HR, 2.03–3.41) with DAPT discontinuation <9 months, likely reflecting premature cessation from factors related to early death. DAPT discontinuation after 9 months following PCI was associated with lower risks of death (HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.88–0.99]), cardiac death (HR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.70–0.90]), myocardial infarction (HR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.69–0.82]), and major bleeding (HR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.74–0.91]). Results were similar with an index PCI for an acute coronary syndrome.

Conclusions

Stopping DAPT after 9 months is associated with lower long‐term risks of adverse ischemic and bleeding events and supports recent guidelines of shorter duration DAPT after PCI with second‐generation drug‐eluting stents.
Inflection Points in Blood Pressure Trajectories Preceding Hypertension Onset in Different Age Groups
Authors: Liu Chengzhang , Zu Cheng , Meng Qiguo , Li Rui , Zhang Yuanyuan , He Panpan , Zhou Chun , Liu Mengyi , Ye Ziliang , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2023

Background

Understanding the natural history of elevated blood pressure (BP) is important to determine the window for primary prevention of hypertension. The authors aimed to investigate the natural history of elevated BP and examine whether there were inflection points in BP trajectories preceding hypertension onset in Chinese adults.

Methods and Results

A total of 8688 participants with an average of 5 BP measurements were included from the CHNS (China Health and Nutrition Survey). In each wave, triplicate measurements on the same arm were taken, and the mean systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were used in the analysis. Hypertension onset was defined as SBP ≥140 mm Hg or DBP ≥90 mm Hg or diagnosed by physician or currently under antihypertensive treatment. The median follow‐up time was 13.0 years. Overall, BP elevation with age prior to the onset of hypertension showed a nonlinear trajectory. The increased rates in both SBP and DBP were obviously faster after the inflection point than before. According to hypertension onset at age 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, and 70 to 79 years, at the inflection point, patients were ≈29, 38, 48, 57, and 67 years, SBP levels were 112.6, 114.8, 116.8, 117.4, and 118.0 mm Hg, and DBP levels were 73.4, 75.7, 76.9, 76.2, and 73.8 mm Hg, respectively.

Conclusions

There was a nonlinear trajectory of BP elevation preceding hypertension onset. The inflection points for SBP and DBP were in the range of 112 to 118 mm Hg and 73 to 77 mm Hg, respectively. Once BP levels exceeded the changing points, the level of SBP and DBP increased more rapidly.
Characterization of fruit quality attributes and nutritional composition of ten blueberry cultivars
Authors: Hirzel Juan , Moya Victoria , Balbontín Cristián
Published: January 2023

The blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) have gained consumer interest worldwide for its antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and blood pressure reducing properties. The objective of our study was to characterize 10 blueberry cultivars for firmness, weight, caliber, macronutrient content, anthocyanins, titratable acidity, and soluble solids. Results indicated that the characterized fruit parameters varied between 12.89–18.68 °Brix for soluble solids, 0.57%–0.79% for titratable acidity, 57.0–81.6 g mm −1 for firmness, 1.74 and 2.80 g for average fruit weight, 14.7 and 17.9 mm for average fruit diameter, 1.80–15.55 mg L−1 for anthocyanins, and 14.4%–21.6% for dry matter content. Fruit nutrient concentration (mg 100 g−1 fresh fruit) ranged from 63.6 to 104.0 mg N 100 g−1, 7.0 to 12.2 mg P 100 g−1, 76.4 to 122.7 mg K 100 g−1, 4.5 to 9.8 mg Ca 100 g−1, 3.6 to 6.9 mg Mg 100 g−1, and 3.7 to 5.8 mg S 100 g−1. The cultivar with the highest overall values was ‘Last Call’, while the cultivars with the lowest values were ‘Brigitta’, ‘Liberty’, and ‘Cargo’. There were positive and negative correlations between the characterization parameters, mainly 1) less firm cultivars, ‘Legacy’, ´Duke’, and ‘Camelia’, were positively correlated for the K concentration, 2) negative correlations between titratable acidity and the K concentration in ‘Last Call’, ‘Cargo’, ‘Brigitta’, and ‘Liberty’, and 3) positive correlations between the P concentration and soluble solid content in ‘Last Call’, ‘Camelia’, and ‘Brigitta’.
A new species of Lindernia (Linderniaceae) from Tanzania
Authors: FISCHER EBERHARD , VOLLESEN KAJ B. , DARBYSHIRE IAIN
Published: January 2023

The new species Lindernia sallyae from Tanzania, Mpanda District is described and illustrated. It differs from Lindernia linearifolia and L. monroi in the lack of basal rosulate leaves, the taller habit, the calyx with shorter tube and the acute lobes, the yellow corolla with purple marks and veins, the larger lower lip of the corolla, the longer abaxial stamens with acute anthers, and the glabrous adaxial stamens. The ecology of this probably poikilohydric species is briefly discussed. The endemic flora of the Uzondo Plateau, the type locality for this new Lindernia species, is highlighted.