bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objective and Perceived Risk in Seismic Vulnerability Assessment at Urban Scale
Authors: Fischer Eliana , Biondo Alessio Emanuele , Greco Annalisa , Martinico Francesco , Pluchino Alessandro , Rapisarda Andrea
Published: July 2022

The assessment of seismic risk in urban areas with high seismicity is certainly one of the most important problems that territorial managers have to face. A reliable evaluation of this risk is the basis for the design of both specific seismic improvement interventions and emergency management plans. Unappropriate seismic risk assessments may provide misleading results and induce bad decisions with relevant economic and social impact.The seismic risk in urban areas is mainly linked to three factors, namely, “hazard”, “exposure” and “vulnerability”. Hazard measures the potential of an earthquake to produce harm; exposure evaluates the amount of population exposed to harm; vulnerability represents the proneness of considered buildings to suffer damages in case of an earthquake. Estimates of such factors may not always coincide with the perceived risk of the resident population. The propensity to implement structural seismic improvement interventions aimed at reducing the vulnerability of buildings depends significantly on the perceived risk.This paper investigates on the difference between objective and perceived risk and highlights some critical issues. The aim of this study is to calibrate opportune policies, which allow addressing the most appropriate seismic risk mitigation options with reference to current levels of perceived risk. We propose the introduction of a Seismic Policy Prevention index (SPPi). This methodology is applied to a case-study focused on a densely populated district of the city of Catania (Italy).
The Impact of Geopolitical Risk on Corporate Investment: Evidence from Turkish Firms
Authors:   Marmara University, Turkey, Tan Omer Faruk , Cavlak Hakan ,   Ardahan University, Turkey, Cebeci Yasin ,   Marmara University, Turkey, Güneş Necati ,   Marmara University, Turkey
Published: July 2022

This study analyzes the effects of geopolitical risk on the corporate investment of 164 Turkish manufacturing firms listed in Borsa Istanbul (BIST). The time covers the period from 2005 to 2019, applying the system Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) estimator. The results indicate that geopolitical risk hurts corporate investment in Turkey. Under uncertainty induced by geographical risk, firms prefer to decline their investment. Additionally, financially constrained (non-dividend, small, young) firms are more negatively affected than financially unconstrained firms. Our findings are robust under alternative measures of geopolitical risk. Overall, this study reveals that geopolitical risk is a significant uncertainty affecting the investment decisions of manufacturing firms in Turkey
Monetary Policy and Herding Behavior: Empirical Evidence From Indonesia Stock Market
Authors:   University of Indonesia, Indonesia, K. Wicaksono Retno Puspita , Falianty Telisa Aulia ,   University of Indonesia, Indonesia
Published: July 2022

This study aims to analyze the role of monetary policy, including the spillover of the US Federal Reserve (Fed) monetary policy, in the existence of herding behavior in the Indonesian stock market. We used beta herding to measure the level of herding behavior and analyze the relationship between monetary policy and beta herding using the VECM model, as well as IRF and FEVD. This study shows that monetary policy plays a role in the existence of herding behavior in the Indonesian stock market. Although the effect of monetary policy on herding behavior is relatively small, Fed monetary policy shocks have a greater effect on the existence of herding behavior in the Indonesian stock market. The credibility of Bank Indonesia (BI) and the Fed may play a role in shaping investors’ expectations. Therefore, policymakers have to take into account the volatility of asset prices in formulating monetary policy
Monomicrobial Joint Infection by Leclercia adecarboxylata in an Immunocompetent Patient After Knee Arthroscopy
Authors: Householder Nicholas A. , Harris Chandler S. , Kugler Katherine M. , Oakes Daniel A. , Powell Scott E.
Published: July 2022

Case:

A 54-year-old immunocompetent man presented to the office with severe right knee pain and swelling 27 days after knee arthroscopy. Additional diagnostics identified a monomicrobial infection of the right knee joint by the bacterium Leclercia adecarboxylata, which was later confirmed by repeated aspiration of the joint and culture of the aspirated fluid.

Conclusion:

This case report details a postoperative monomicrobial infection with L. adecarboxylata after a knee arthroscopy in an immunocompetent host. Although infection by this bacterium is rare, this case demonstrates the possibility of L. adecarboxylata infection in the knee joint after orthopaedic surgery.
Propuesta de negocio: Home Service
Authors:   , Ortiz Camacho Armando David , Colqui Quispe Leslie Nataly , Rojas Guevara Guido Alexis
Published: July 2022

El trabajo evalúa la viabilidad de atender la necesidad de los usuarios de Lima Metropolitana en sus problemas de servicio técnico. A través del estudio de mercado para el lanzamiento del App se ha confirmado la necesidad de crear y tener al alcance una App que brinde confianza, ya que un 54.44% de los encuestados indicaron que “suelen acudir a un personal de confianza”. La demanda del proyecto para el año cinco es de 29,160 servicios en total, a un precio que varía dependiendo del servicio elegido. Asimismo, se describe el proceso de producción del servicio, los recursos y materiales a emplear. Más adelante se determina el programa de ingresos considerando la vida útil estimada. Se ha invertido en su totalidad un 30% capital propio y un 70% de financiamiento. Mientras que los resultados del flujo económico y financiero muestran un VAN de S/ 202,837.12 y S/ 238,454.52 x y un TIR de 124.65% y 259.33%, respectivamente.
Cultura tributaria y evasión de impuestos de las MYPES rubro comercial, distrito Ate - 2021
Authors:   , Palomino Bellido Wilber Aldumero , Cangalaya Sinche Angel Brayan
Published: July 2022

La evasión tributaria desde muchos años hasta la actualidad ha tenido un impacto negativo en la recaudación de impuestos a nivel mundial, pues este es la principal causa por los cuales muchos países no han logrado que sus economías crezcan, considerando que su PBI anualmente no tenga efectos positivos. La investigación es de tipo básica transversal y descriptivo correlacional. En este estudio la muestra fue de 30 Mypes del rubro comercial ubicados en el distrito de Ate a quienes se le aplicó dos cuestionarios referentes a cada variable con estilo escala de Likert relacionadas a las variables: cultura tributaria y evasión tributaria. Respecto al coeficiente de correlación se empleó el método de Spearman el cual fue ,023 lo que nos indica que tiene una relación alta ya que se encuentra dentro del rango de 0,05 de los niveles de correlación, por otro lado, el nivel de significación es de,607 por tanto, se concluye que en el estudio existe una relación entre cultura tributaria y evasión de impuestos de los comerciantes del rubro comercial Ate, 2021.
Fragilidad cognitiva como predictor de mortalidad en adultos mayores del Centro Médico Naval, Callao, Perú en los años 2010-2015
Authors:   , Vargas Torres Young Diego Alonso
Published: July 2022

Objetivo: Evaluar el rol de la fragilidad cognitiva y sus componentes como factores de riesgo para mortalidad en adultos mayores del Centro Médico Naval en Callao (CEMENA), Perú durante el 2010-2015. Métodos: Realizamos un análisis secundario de datos de una cohorte prospectiva que incluyó a adultos mayores (60 años en adelante) tratados en el servicio de Geriatría del CENEMA entre los años 2010-2015. La fragilidad fue definida como la presencia de tres o más criterios del Fenotipo de Fried modificado. El deterioro cognitivo se evaluó mediante la versión peruana del Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), considerándose un puntaje menor a 21 como deterioro cognitivo. La fragilidad cognitiva se definió como la coexistencia de ambos. Además, incluimos características sociodemográficas, antecedentes médicos y personales, así como la evaluación funcional de cada participante. Realizamos modelos de regresión de Cox crudos y ajustados para evaluar la asociación de interés y estimar Hazard Ratios (HR) crudos y ajustados con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza al 95% (IC95%). Resultados: Incluimos a 1390 adultos mayores, quienes tenían una media de edad de 78,2 ± 8,5 años y el 59,6% (n=828) eran varones. Encontramos que el 11,3% (n=157) presentaba fragilidad cognitiva y el 9,9% (n=138) murió durante el seguimiento. Hallamos que la fragilidad cognitiva fue un factor de riesgo para incidencia de mortalidad en adultos mayores (HRa=3.57; IC95% 2,33-5,49), así como sus componentes, siendo el sedentarismo y deterioro cognitivo (HRa=7,05; IC95%: 4,46-11,13), debilidad y deterioro cognitivo (HRa=6,99; IC95%: 4,41-11,06), y agotamiento y deterioro cognitivo (HRa=4,51; IC95%: 3,11-6,54) los que se asociaron a un mayor riesgo de mortalidad…
Estudio del transcriptoma del cáncer gástrico para la búsqueda de perfiles de expresión génica asociados a pronóstico
Authors:   , Velasquez Sotomayor Mariana Belen , Asurza Montalva Jose Ricardo
Published: July 2022

Introducción: El cáncer gástrico (GC) ocupa el quinto lugar en incidencia y el cuarto en mortalidad en todo el mundo. La alta tasa de mortalidad en pacientes con CG requiere la investigación de nuevos biomarcadores que, junto con las clasificaciones moleculares actuales, mejoren la predicción de la supervivencia de los pacientes. Objetivo: Identificar genes asociados consistentemente con el pronóstico en cáncer gástrico y generar un índice genético mediante el uso de base de datos de acceso público. Métodos: En este estudio, se realizó un análisis transcriptómico de cinco cohortes independientes para identificar genes consistentemente asociados con el pronóstico en GC. Para ello, se realizó un análisis del transcriptoma de tumores de cáncer gástrico (GC) a partir de base de datos públicas de cinco cohortes independientes para identificar genes consistentemente asociados con el pronóstico en el cáncer gástrico (GC). Como criterio de inclusión se consideró la disponibilidad de datos de supervivencia global de los pacientes. Los datos genéticos fueron descargados de las bases de datos Firebrowse (http://firebrowse.org/) y Gene Expression Omnibus del Centro Nacional de Información Biotecnológica (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/). Las cohortes se dicotomizaron en pacientes con alta o baja expresión génica utilizando el valor de corte óptimo calculado a partir de la curva ROC. Los genes asociados a pronóstico se identificaron luego del análisis de regresión de Cox y área bajo la curva (AUC) Con el objetico de mejorar el poder de predicción, se modelaron escores de expresión génica a partir de los genes consistentemente asociados a pronóstico. Los scores de expresión génica (GES) se calcularon por suma ponderada utilizando el coeficiente de regresión de Cox β. Una vez identificado el mejor GES, se predijeron los procesos biológicos relacionados al GES mediante un análisis de enriquecimiento de vías biológicas (GSEA)…
Hipertensión arterial y su asociación con estilos de vida en adultos según la Encuesta Nacional Demográfica y de Salud Familiar 2018, Perú
Authors:   , Iman Rodriguez Rosa Sthefany , Osorio Aulla Luis Alberto
Published: July 2022

Introducción. La hipertensión arterial (HTA) es una enfermedad cardiovascular que tiene una de las más altas tasas de mortalidad. Esta genera más de 20 complicaciones cardiovasculares y es la Primera causa de discapacidad y años perdidos en el adulto mayor donde los estilos de vida como: el ingerir verduras y frutas, el ingerir alcohol, el hábito de fumar y el perímetro abdominal son factores que juegan un rol importante en la prevención o desarrollo de esta patología crónica. Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre el estilo de vida y la presencia de hipertensión arterial en adultos participantes de la ENDES 2018. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional transversal de análisis de bases secundarias de la Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud Familiar, ENDES 2018, se abarca 36760 de viviendas, basándonos en personas adultas. Resultados. Se encontró que la prevalencia de HTA que en su mayoría ha sido en adultos mayores. Además, en el presente estudio se ha evidenciado que las participantes con sobrepeso y obesidad tuvieron 1,8 y 2,2 veces más probabilidad de padecer Hipertensión Arterial. Conclusiones. Existen factores sociodemográficos que influyen en la prevalencia de Hipertensión arterial en el adulto.
Combination Of External Fixation Using Digital Six-axis Fixator and Internal Fixation To Treat severe complex knee deformity
Authors: Liu Shuguang , Yu Dengjie , Li Hui , Opoku Michael , Li Jun , Zhang baogang , Li Yusheng , Qiao Feng
Published: July 2022

Background: Severe knee valgus/varus or complex multiplanar deformities are common in clinic. If not corrected in time, cartilage wear will be aggravated and initiate the osteoarthritis due to lower limb malalignment. Internal fixation is unable to correct sever complex deformities, especially when combined with lower limb discrepancy. Based on the self-designed digital six-axis external fixator Q spatial fixator (QSF), which can correct complex multiplanar deformities without changing structures, accuracy of correction can be improved significantly. Methods: This retrospective study included 24 patients who suffered from complex knee deformity with lower limb discrepancy treated by QSF and internal fixation at our institution from January 2018 to February 2021. All patients had a closing wedge distal femoral osteotomy with internal fixation for immediate correction and high tibia osteotomy with QSF fixation for postoperative progressive correction. Data of correction prescriptions were computed by software from postoperative CT scans. Results: Mean discrepancy length of operative side was 2.39±1.04cm (range 0.9-4.4cm) preoperatively. The mean difference of lower limb was 0.32±0.13cm (range 0.11-0.58cm) postoperatively. The length of limb correction had significant difference(p<0.05). The mean MAD and HKA decreased significantly. The mean MPTA and LDFA increased significantly. The lower limb alignment was significantly corrected(p<0.05). The mean time of removing external fixator was 112.8±17.9 days (range 83-147 days). Conclusions: Complex knee deformity with lower limb discrepancy can be treated by six-axis external fixator with internal fixation without total knee arthroplasty. Lower limb malalignment and discrepancy can be corrected precisely and effectively by this approach.
Measurement of person-centred consultation skills among healthcare practitioners: a systematic review of reviews of validation studies
Authors: Dongen Anne van , Stewart Duncan , Garry Jack , McCambridge Jim
Published: July 2022

Background Person-centred care is integral to high-quality health service provision, though concepts vary and the literature is complex. Validated instruments that measure person-centred practitioner skills, and behaviours within consultations, are needed for many reasons, including in training programmes. We aimed to provide a high-level synthesis of what was expected to be a large and diverse literature through a systematic review of existing reviews of validation studies a of instruments that measure person-centred practitioner skills and behaviours in consultations. The objectives were to undertake a critical appraisal of these reviews, and to summarise the available validated instruments and the evidence underpinning them.Methods A systematic search of Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL was conducted in September 2020. Systematic reviews of validation studies of instruments measuring individual practitioner person-centred consultation skills or behaviours which report measurement properties were included. Review quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses. Details of the reviews, the included validation studies, and the instruments themselves are tabulated, including psychometric data, and a narrative overview of the reviews is provided.Results Four reviews were eligible for inclusion. These used different conceptualisations of person-centredness and targeted distinct, sometimes mutually exclusive, practitioners and settings. The four reviews included 68 unique validation studies examining 42 instruments, but with very few overlaps. The critical appraisal shows there is a need for improvements in the design of reviews in this area. The instruments included within these reviews have not been subject to extensive validation study.Discussion There are many instruments available which measure person-centred skills in healthcare practitioners and this study offers a guide to what is available to researchers and research users. The most relevant and promising instruments that have already been developed, or items within them, should be further studied rigorously. Validation study of existing material is needed, not the development of new measures. Funding: This study was funded by National Institute for Health Research Capability Funding (RCF) in 20/21 for North East and North Cumbria and Programme Grants PGfAR [RP-PG-0216-20002].
Mammography Screening and the Incidence of Interval Cancer in Taiwan: A Single Institute’s Experience
Authors: Han Hsin-Ju , Chu Yuan-Chia , Tseng Ling-Ming , Huang Chi-Cheng
Published: July 2022

Background/aim: Breast cancer is the most common female malignancy in the world. Nearly ninety percent of screen-detected breast cancer were diagnosed with stages 0 to II in Taiwan. Identifying breast cancer through screening can achieve early diagnosis and treatment for preventive medicine while the risk of interval cancer remains, which has unfavorable tumor characteristics and worse outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of mammography screening and the incidence of interval cancer using administration data, cancer registry and chart reviews.Materials and methods: Mammography examinations with BI-RADS (breast imaging-reporting and data system) classification were extracted from the health information system and linked to cancer registry. Targeted populations were those attending the first mammography between 2012 and 2016, while subjects with previous breast cancer, missing or incomplete data were excluded. We compared the treatment outcomes of breast cancer patients with and without mammography screening, and the incidence of interval breast cancer was estimated.Results: The total of 84,246 screening mammography and 61,230 diagnostic mammography sessions were performed from 2010 to 2020. More positive results (BIRADS 0, 3, 4 and 5) were observed for those attending the first diagnostic than the first screening mammography (43.58% versus 16.12%, p<0.001). Among 26,103 mammography screening invitees from 2012 to 2016, 325 breast cancers were ascertained from cancer registry. Of these, 234 had one, 72 had two and 19 had three episodes of mammography before cancer diagnosis, with an interval cancer rate of 0.065% estimated. The proportion of contamination from symptomatic cases, screening-detected cancers, interval cancers and cancers with delayed biopsy or confirmatory image examinations in the screening group were 29.9%, 57.5%, 5.2%, and 7.4%, respectively. Earlier stage distribution (tumor less than 2 cm without regional lymph node invasion, stage 0-I) (92% versus 81%, p<0.0001), better survivorship (96.91% versus 92.17%, p=0.007) and favorable tumor characteristics such as a lower HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor II) positive status and lower tumor grade (p=0.0006 and 0.012 respectively) were noted in screening-detected breast cancers.Conclusion: The effectiveness of mammography screening was ascertained in Taiwan despite high contamination from symptomatic women from this study. To improve the outcomes further with earlier detection and decrease the risk of interval cancer, the impact of repeated mammography and removal of clinical cases from screening programs should be considered.
Tumor-promoting EGFRvIII/c-Jun/IGFBP3 signaling circuit is induced by TGF-β-EGFRvIII transactivation in glioblastoma
Authors: Zhang Xuehua , Gong Yujiao , Zhang He , Zhao Leilei , Song Ping , ju huanyu , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Yurui , Ren Huan , Zhu Xiao , Dong Yucui
Published: July 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor with a median survival of less than one year. EGFR and EGFRvIII amplification are significant genetic signature in GBM. Currently, the treatment targeting EGFRvIII cannot effectively prolong the survival of patients. TGF-β is secreted by a variety of cells in the GBM immunosuppressive microenvironment, mediating the malignant progression of EGFRvIII-expressing GBMs, but the precise mechanism is still unclear. Our data demonstrated that IGFBP3 is produced by TGF-β and EGFRvIII signal transactivation. The transcription factor c-Jun activation is essential for the production of IGFBP3. IGFBP3 knockdown not only decreased the activation of TGF-β and EGFRvIII signaling pathways, but also reduced the malignant behaviors of EGFRvIII-expressing GBM cells. In vivo data also showed that IGFBP3 knockdown prolonged tumor growth and reduced tumor volume in xenograft models. Through analysis of 80 clinical specimens showed that the expression of EGFRvIII and IGFBP3 in GBM tissues was significantly increased and positively correlated. In conclusion, TGF-β regulates the production of IGFBP3 through the EGFRvIII/c-Jun/IGFBP3 signal axis, therefore, IGFBP3 may serve as a promising therapeutics target for EGFRvIII-positive GBMs.
Social resiliency in times of crisis: a case study of COVID-19 propensity in a Toronto community
Authors: Phan Jenny , Caraway Brett
Published: July 2022

Background: This article is intended to advance our understanding of how the intricate planning, distribution, and governance systems and programs in the northwest communities of Toronto have impacted the risk of exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus among this population. The study is guided by the research question: how does the conflation of social determinants such as race, healthcare access, housing, and household income impact the COVID-19 infection rate in the northwest neighbourhoods (with the Jane-Finch intersection as the focal point) of Toronto, Ontario? Methods: Using a political economy framework, we consider four social determinants of health—housing, healthcare access, income, and race—and their relationship to the incidence of COVID-19 in five northwest neighbourhoods in Toronto, Ontario with some of the highest COVID-19 case rates. Demographic census data was assessed and compared to social services provided in the city of Toronto’s operating budget. Results: The data analyzed in this study suggest that the lack of investment in social infrastructure exposed residents to an increased likelihood of COVID-19 infection. This inference echoes the work of other fields of research that have described a perpetuation of oppression in which economic growth is prioritized over public health and disease prevention. Conclusion: We contend that when economic opportunities are not afforded to communities, social mobility is stagnant and social resiliency is difficult to achieve. We conclude that in light of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the city must rectify its current operating systems and better prepare itself for oncoming crises that may exacerbate further socioeconomic inequalities.
Meta-analysis of SNPs determining litter traits in pigs
Authors: Sell-Kubiak E. , Dobrzański J. , Derks M.F.L. , Lopes M. S. , Szwaczkowski T.
Published: July 2022

Background: Nearly 2,000 SNPs associated with pig litter size traits were so far reported based on genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The aims of this study were to gather and integrate previously reported associations between SNPs and five litter traits: total number born (TNB), number born alive (NBA), number of stillborn (SB), litter birthweight (LWT), and corpus luteum number (CLN) to evaluate their common genetic background, and to perform the meta-analysis (MA) of GWAS for total number born (TNB) recorded on animals from five pig populations. Results: In this study, the genes with the largest number of associations with evaluated litter traits were GABRG3, RBP7, PRKD1, and STXBP6. Only 21 genes out of 233 associated with the evaluated litter traits were reported in more than one population or for more than one trait. Based on this evaluation the most interesting candidate gene is PRKD1, which has an association with SB and TNB. Based on GO term analysis, PRKD1 was shown to be involved in angiogenesis as well. As a result of the MA, two new genomic regions, that have not been previously reported, were found to be associated with TNB. One SNP was located on Sus scrofa chromosome (SSC) 14 in the intron of the FAM13C gene. The second SNP was located on SSC9 within the intron of the AGMO gene. Functional analysis revealed a strong candidate causal gene underlying the QTL on SSC9. The third best hit and the most promising candidate gene for litter size was found within the SOSTDC1 gene associated with lower male fertility in rats.Conclusions: We showed that litter traits studied across pig populations have only a few genomic regions in common based on candidate genes comparison. PRKD1 could be an interesting candidate gene with wider association with fertility. The MA identified new genomic regions on SSC9 and SSC14 associated with TNB. Further functional analysis indicated the most promising gene being SOSTDC1 that was confirmed to affect male fertility in other mammals. This is an important finding as litter traits are by default linked with females rather than males.
Assessment of surface water quality during different tides and an anthropogenic impact on coastal water at Gulf of Kachchh, West Coast of India
Authors: Panseriya Haresh , Gosai Haren , Gavali Deepa , Dave Bharti
Published: July 2022

The port-based activity is often associated with industrial growth in the hinterland and similar phenomenon is reported from the Gulf of Kachchh, India. The establishment of industrial clusters close to the coastline is a matter of concern as the release of effluents which influenced the marine ecosystem. The present paper tries to evaluate the variation in the water quality during the high tide and low tide in relation with the anthropogenic or natural influence in Gulf of Kachchh. The tidal variation is important as it reflects the influence of the land-based activity on the coastal waters. To prove this logic a series of stations were taken along the coastal water and statistical analysis viz., Pearson correlation, Box plot, Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and Factor Analysis (PCA/FA) were conducted. Pearson correlation and Box plot represents visual impact of parameter variations in respected tides. The chemometric analysis i.e. HCA and PCA/FA clearly indicates an anthropogenic impact on coastal water. Surface water temperature 32.1–34.1°C, pH 7.9–8.7, EC 6.3–9.9 mS/cm, salinity 36.0–52.0 ppt, DO 2.43–6.91, BOD 1.63–4.49 mgO2/L, TSS 1.88–6.98 g/L and turbidity 3–32 NTU. Similarly nutrient concentrations in the gulf of Kachchh were phosphates 0.10–1.54 mg/L, total nitrogen 0.38–0.63 mg/L and sulphate 23.66–37.35 mg/L. The results of HCA revealed that major anthropogenic and domestic impact were found at various stations during low tide. The PCA/FA supported the HCA and justify most of variation in coastal ecosystem were mainly attributed due to the land based activities and sewage outfall points. Overall, the study reveals that water quality parameters like pH, salinity, dissolved solid, oxygen, turbidity, sulphate and nutrients are impacted by the anthropogenic activities and tidal influence. The findings of the paper will be useful for developing effective management strategies for policy maker or stakeholders operational in the coastal area.
The First Toxicological Report of Bigeye Thresher Alopias superciliosus Lowe, 1841
Authors: ÇİFTÇİ Nuray , AYAS Deniz , CİCİK Bedii
Published: July 2022

Cartilaginous fish species have ecological and economic importance, and ecotoxicological studies on these species are quite insufficient. In this study, Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Pb, Cd, and Sr levels were determined in muscle, liver, gill, kidney, spleen, stomach, and gonad tissues of Alopias superciliosus (Female, 240 cm TL) caught from Mersin Bay. Tissue metal analysis was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The SPSS package program was used for statistical analysis and the Duncan test was applied. A statistical difference was found among the tissues in terms of the metals. Fe was determined the highest level in all tissues (p<0.05). The relation between tissues in terms of Fe level was determined as Liver>Gill>Spleen>Gonad>Kidney>Stomach>Muscle. Zn was detected at higher levels in the liver and stomach, and As in other tissues after Fe. Al has the highest level after Zn and As and was mostly found in the gills. The tissue Cu and Zn levels were found in the same order from highest to lowest as Liver>Gonad>Kidney>Spleen≥ Stomach>Gill>Muscle. Sr was higher in the stomach, gonad, and kidney than the other tissues. Cd levels were found in higher than Pb levels in the examined tissues. Liver Cd level was determined as 57.37 µg g-1 dw. Except for the liver, Mn was found at a low level after Cr in the examined tissues. The distinction between the tissue levels of the investigated elements has changed depending on the functional differences between the tissues and metal metabolisms.
Color appearance in rotational material jetting
Authors: Golhin Ali Payami , Sole Aditya Suneel , Strandlie Are
Published: July 2022

Material jetting (MJT) is a popular additive manufacturing (AM) method to combine various materials and create a wide range of designed appearances. However, the measured color of MJT objects is frequently different from the color provided in the printer software. As a result, estimating the color quality and the measured color attributes of an object before printing is vital for accurate color reproduction. This study investigates the color variation based on the texture in an object 3D printed using the MJT method on a rotary tray. The novel radial shape of the rotary tray build platform and variation in the layers structure were targeted as the main factors that can increase the uncertainty in accurate color reproduction. The influence of the PolyJet printer setup has been examined by thickness variation of the colored layers, location on the tray (swath selection), ink color, and finish type between layers. Color quality was assessed by comparing the produced object color by calculating spectral and colorimetric differences. Spearman rank correlation coefficient and principal component analysis (PCA) methods were used to analyze the direct or indirect influence of independent categorical factors on the measured color variables. Based on the studied parameters, switching swathes did not fail printer objects for industrial color matching. In contrast, a thickness variation as small as 0.5 mm could cause CIEDE2000 above 5 for most models, resulting in unnatural color reproduction. Color differences in most objects might be discernible to inexperienced observers, depending on the 3D printing parameters.
An Exclusive NEMO B Mutation Leads to NF-κB-linked Recurrent Pneumonia by Disrupting the NEMO/IKK Complex
Authors: Xu Li , Xu Jing , Guo Xiaoman , Tan Yun , Qiu Tianyi , Tao Jie , Tao Shuai , Liao Yixin , Zhang Lin , Tian Di , Ma Yuanyuan , Ye Peiyan , Hao Yi , Zhang Jianliang , Okada Satoshi , Liu Jialin , Lu Hongzhou , Liu TieFu , Ling Yun
Published: July 2022

Purpose
A number of NEMO mutations in the shared sequences of NEMO isoform A and B have been associated with NF-κB-linked diseases. Here, we first report an exclusive NEMO B mutation as the genetic etiology of a male case with recurrent bacterial pneumonia and explore the underlying mechanism.
Methods
The genomic protein-coding regions of genes were analyzed using the whole exome sequencing (WES) technique, and the rare gene variant was confirmed by Sanger sequence analysis; activation of NF-kB signaling pathway was assessed by co-immunoprecipitation, western blotting, and single-cell RNA-seq analysis; glycolytic changes of peripheral immune cells were evaluated by extracellular acidification rate assay; protein-protein binding affinity and stability were estimated by structure modeling and molecular docking analysis.
Results
A c.20T > C mutation in exon 1 of the IKBKG germline sequence (NM_001099856.2) resulted in a Val7Ala replacement in the exclusive N-terminal sequence of NEMO B. This mutation significantly decreased the binding affinity and stability of NEMO B with IKKα/β, leading to the failure to form functional NEMO/IKK complex and the subsequent inhibition of RelA phosphorylation and nuclear translocation to initiate pro-inflammatory TNF-α and IL-1β gene transcription and metabolic support by glycolysis in response to the TLR4 agonist LPS. Single-cell sequencing analysis revealed abnormalities in monocyte and T-lymphocyte function and B-cell hyperplasia.
Conclusions
The exclusive N-terminal sequence of NEMO B is essential for a functional NEMO/IKKa/IKKb complex to activate NF-κB-dependent antibacterial immunity.
Evolutionary implications of new Postopsyllidiidae from mid-Cretaceous amber from Burma and sternorrhynchan nymphal conservatism
Authors: Drohojowska Jowita , Zmarzły Marzena , Szwedo Jacek
Published: July 2022

Nymphs of extinct sternorrhynchan hemipterans are extremely scarce, however very important for understanding of evolutionary trait of these insects. A protopsyllidioid nymph, placed in the family Postopsyllidiidae is the first found in the fossil record, based on an inclusion in mid-Cretaceous amber from Kachin, Burma. Postopsyllidiidae so far comprised the sole genus Postopsyllidium with a few species: P. rebeccae, P. grimaldii and P. burmaticum from Kachin amber (Cenomanian) and P. emilyae from Turonian amber of New Jersey. Here we are reporting a new genus and species of the postopsyllid Megalophthallidion burmapteron gen. et sp. nov. (imago) and first known nymph of the family ascribed to the same genus. An overview of fossil record of sternorrhynchan nymphs and their evolutionary implications are presented. This finding unlocked new and complementary window to understanding the evolutionary traits of Protopsyllidioidea and other Sternorrhyncha hemipterans.
The “whole ingredients extract” of Astragali Radix improves the symptoms of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in mice through systemic immunomodulation
Authors: Linghu Ke-Gang , Ma Qiushuo , Xiong Shi Hang , Zhao Mingming , Chen Qiling , Xu Wen , Chen Meiwan , Zhang Jian-Ye , Hu Yuanjia , Xu Wei , Yu Hua
Published: July 2022

Background
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common inflammatory intestinal disease. Astragali Radix (AR) is one of the traditional Chinese medicines used in clinic for UC treatment. In our previous study, the whole ingredient extract (WIE) from AR have been proved to possess better immunomodulatory effects on immunosuppressed mice compared with the traditional water extraction (WAE). At our present study, we further evaluated the systemic immune regulation and therapeutic effects of WIE compared with the WAE in the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC mice.
Methods
Gradient solvent extraction has been used to prepare the WIE of Astragalus. The HPLC-MS analysis approach has been employed to analyze and compare the chemical differences between WAE and WIE. UC model was reproduced in 3% DSS-induced C57BL/6 mice for 6 days. Flow cytometric analysis for splenic lymphocyte subset. Elisa kits were used to determine the cytokines in the serum and colon tissues. The histopathological characteristics of colon were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry
Results
The chemical compositions of WIE were more abundant than that in WAE, and amount of main active ingredients in WIE is higher than that in WAE. The WIE treatment altered a better action on reducing colitis disease activity index (DAI) and histological scores, as well as the recovered body weight and increased colon length in mice compared to the WAE group. Additionally, WIE showed a better effects than WAE in recovering the levels of white blood cells in peripheral blood and cytokines (IL-2, IL-6 and MCP-1) in serum or colon tissues, improving the percentage of CD3 + and the ratio of CD4+/CD8 + in the spleen, and inhibiting the spleen enlargement in DSS-induced UC mice.
Conclusions
WIE has a more complete chemical composition than WAE. Meanwhile, WIE possesses better therapeutic effect on UC and the resuming effect on dysfunctional immunity than WAE at the same dosage in mice.
Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Depression
Authors: Roh Eun Hak , Jang Hyewon , Hwang Kyuchul , Hurh Kyungduk , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: July 2022

Background
Depression is the leading cause of mental health disorders. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder, with a recent increase in prevalence. This study aimed to determine the association between OSA and depressive symptoms.
Methods
A total of 1,681 men and 2,112 women aged > 40 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2020) were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. OSA was measured using snoring. In addition, apnea and depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.
Results
Individuals with OSA showed a higher likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms among men (odds ratio [OR]: 1.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.48) and women (OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.35–2.95). Among men, those who responded to both symptoms of snoring and observed apnea showed a higher likelihood than those who only reported one of the symptoms (OR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.12–3.92). Women showed more association with those who reported both symptoms (OR: 3.20, 95% CI: 1.58–6.47).
Conclusions
This study found that OSA increased depressive symptoms. This study suggests the treatment of sleep disorders may be used as a method for preventing depression.
The COVID-19 Pandemic in the Nawalparasi District of Nepal: A Mixed Methods Assessment of Increased Alcohol Use and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Cornell Alia , Diamond-Smith Nadia , Mitchell Ashley , Puri Mahesh
Published: July 2022

Background In Nepal and across the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic has primed an environment for increased rates of intimate partner violence (IPV). This paper examines how the upstream factors of alcohol use and economic insecurity in the Nawalparasi district of Nepal has brought about higher rates of IPV among newly married women. Methods This study is a secondary analysis of data obtained from the Sumadhur Intervention pilot study that has been previously described and demonstrates successful implementation of group-based, household-level intervention for women’s empowerment and sexual and reproductive health education (1). Our three sets of data were collected before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first set is from a longitudinal cohort of 200 newly married women who were surveyed twice a year from February 2017 through July 2020. The second data set is from a cohort of newly married women, their husbands, and their mothers-in-law (31 women, 31 husbands and 31 mothers-in-law) who participated in Sumadhur in January 2021. The third data set was obtained through in-depth interviews in July 2021 from 15 households following Sumadhur. The interviews were thematically coded, and subthemes were identified. The survey data was analyzed for change over time. Results In households in the Nawalparasi district of Nepal, between 2019 and 2020 there was an increase in alcohol consumption with reports of drinking every day increasing from 9.2% to 13.6%. In July 2020, 30% (N=31/102) of newly married women said their husbands’ alcohol consumption had increased since the pandemic. In 2019, 47.06% (N=88/187) of participants reported that they had experienced any form of IPV. In July 2021, 74% (N=23/31) of women reported being physically forced to have sexual intercourse with their husband when they did not want to and in the past four months, 68% (N=21/31) reported being forced to perform sexual acts against their will. The interviews highlighted the presence of alcohol use in the community as well as increased concerns over economic insecurity. Mothers-in-law consistently described increased rates of IPV and community violence since the pandemic. Conclusions The pandemic has led to precarious economic situations that have influenced alcohol use among men, and instances of IPV among young, newly married women. We have demonstrated a need for urgent programmatic and policy responses aimed at reducing IPV, which has increased during the pandemic. Family interventions centering on women, such as Sumadhur, are critical to implement along with community-wide emergency preparedness to ensure autonomy, safety, and wellbeing now and in future times of uncertainty.
Genomic epidemiology of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants during first two years of the pandemic in Colombia
Authors: Silva Cinthy Jimenez , Rivero Ricardo , Douglas Jordan , Bouckaert Remco , Arenas Christian Julian Villabona , Atkins Katherine , Gastelbondo Bertha , Calderon Alfonso , Guzman Camilo , Hoz Daniel Echeverri-De la , Muñoz Marina , Ballesteros Nathalia , Castañeda Sergio , Patiño Luz , Ramirez Angie , Luna Nicolas , Paniz-Mondolfi Alberto , Serrano-Coll Hector , Ramirez Juan David , Mattar Salim , Drummond Alexei
Published: July 2022

The emergence of highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variants has led to surges in cases and the need for global genomic surveillance. While some variants rapidly spread worldwide, other variants only persist nationally. There is a need for more fine-scale analysis to understand transmission dynamics at a country scale. For instance, the Mu variant of interest, also known as lineage B.1.621, was first detected in Colombia and was responsible for a large local wave but only a few sporadic cases elsewhere. To provide a better understanding of the epidemiology of SARS-Cov-2 variants in Colombia, we used 14,049 complete SARS-CoV-2 genomes from the 32 states of Colombia, and performed Bayesian phylodynamic analyses to estimate the time of variants introduction, their respective effective reproductive number, and effective population size, and the impact of disease control measures. We detected a total of 188 SARS-CoV-2 Pango lineages circulating in Colombia since the start of the pandemic. We showed that the effective reproduction number oscillated drastically throughout the first two years of the pandemic, with Mu showing the highest transmissibility (Re and growth rate estimation). Our results reinforce that genomic surveillance programs are essential for countries to make evidence-driven interventions towards the emergence and circulation of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants.
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ National Ophthalmology Database Study of Cataract Surgery: report 11, Techniques and Complications of Local Anaesthesia
Authors: Neo Yan Ning , Gruszka-Goh Marta , Braga Alice , De Klerk Tim , Lindfield Dan , Nestel Achim , Stewart Stephen , Donachie Paul , Buchan John
Published: July 2022

Objective:
To describe variation in local anaesthesia techniques and complications over a 10-year period for cataract surgery in the United Kingdom.
Methods:
Data from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists National Ophthalmology Database was used. Eligible for analysis were 1 195 882 cataract operations performed using local anaesthesia between 01/04/2010 and 31/03/2020 in 80 centres.
Results:
Overall, topical anaesthesia alone was used in 152 321 (12.7%) operations, combined topical and intracameral anaesthesia in 522 849 (43.7%), sub-Tenon’s in 461 175 (38.6%), and peribulbar/retrobulbar anaesthesia in 59 537 (5.0%). In National Health Service (NHS) institutions, 48.3% operations were topical with/without intracameral vs 88.7% in independent sector treatment centres (ISTC). 45.9% were sub-Tenon’s in NHS vs 9.6% in ISTC. 5.8% were peribulbar/retrobulbar in NHS vs 1.7% in ISTC. Anaesthetic complication rates decreased from 2.7% in the 2010 NHS year to 1.5% in the 2019 NHS year (overall, 2.1% for NHS; 0.2% for ISTC). Overall anaesthetic complication rates were 0.3%, 0.3%, 3.5% and 3.1% for topical alone, combined topical/intracameral, sub-Tenon’s and peribulbar/retrobulbar respectively. Complication rates were higher for sharp needle anaesthesia (peribulbar/retrobulbar) in patients taking warfarin rather than direct oral anticoagulants (4.8% vs 3.1%; p = 0.024). Considerable variation was observed between centres on anaesthetic choices and anaesthetic complication rates.
Conclusions:
Combined topical and intracameral is the most common choice of anaesthesia for cataract surgery in the United Kingdom and is associated with lower anaesthetic-related complication rates than sub-Tenon’s and peribulbar/retrobulbar anaesthesia. Variation in anaesthetic choice exists between centres and between NHS & ISTC sectors.
Improving pre-harvest sprouting resistance in rice by editing OsABA8ox using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Fu Kai , Song Weihan , Chen Cheng , Mou Changling , Huang Yunshuai , Zhang Fulin , Hao Qixian , Wang Ping , Ma Tengfei , Chen Yaping , Zhu Ziyan , Zhang Min , Tong Qikai , Liu Xi , Jiang Ling , Wan Jianmin
Published: July 2022

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) in cereal crops, is a universal phenomenon that affects grain yield and quality (Tai et al. 2021). Breeders use different methods to strengthen seed dormancy to prevent PHS including genome editing. Abscisic acid is one of the phytohormones that promote seed dormancy. ABA8ox genes encode abscisic acid 8’ hydroxylase (ABA8OX) which determines the level of ABA content by catabolizing ABA (Vallabhaneni and Wurtzel 2010). Three genes in rice encode ABA8’ hydroxylases, namely OsABA8ox1 (LOC_Os02g47470), OsABA8ox2 (LOC_Os08g36860) and OsABA8ox3 (LOC_Os09g28390) (Kushiro et al. 2004; Cai et al. 2015; Zhang et al. 2020). Each gene is expressed in different tissues of rice.
An amplitude-dependent vibration model of thin plate made of fiber metal laminates with partial constraint layer damping treatments
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Xu Pei-yao , Li Hui , Gu Da-wei , Zhang Yong-feng , Liu Zi-ming , Li He , Han Qing-kai , Wen Bang-chun
Published: July 2022

In this study, considering the amplitude-dependence, a nonlinear vibration model of fiber metal laminates thin plate treated with partial constraint layer damping treatments is proposed. Based on the Jones-Nelson nonlinear theory, the model is established by deducing the stress-strain relationships among four layers including fiber layer, metal layer, viscoelastic layer and constraint layer. Then, the nonlinear vibration characters are solved by utilizing the energy method and the Newton-Raphson technique. Next, the damping character is acquired based on complex modulus method. The experimental example of a TA2/TC500 fiber metal laminates plate treated stainless steel/Zn-33 constraint layer damping is performed to validate the presented nonlinear vibration model. Besides, the affections of the treating factors on the nonlinear vibration characteristics of FMLs plate is discussed as well.