bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities of Capsicum Annuum L. Leaf Extract by Extraction Conditions
Authors: Seo Ye-Seul , Kim Suk Jung , Kim Tae Han , Lee Soo Hong , Yang Eun Ju
Published: June 2022

This study investigated optimal extraction conditions for applying Capsicum annuum L. leaf as a functional food resource. Capsicum annuum L. leaf was extracted at different extraction solvents (water and 95% ethanol), extraction temperatures (80°C and 100°C), and e xtraction times ( 30, 60, and 9 0 min), a nd t he extracts were e valuated for extraction yield, luteolin content as a major flavonoid component, antioxidant activity, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The extraction yield, luteolin content, DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the hot water extract were higher than those of the ethanol extract. In evaluating the extraction temperature of Capsicum annuum L. leaf, the antioxidant activities were similar, but the extraction yields, luteolin contents, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were higher at 100°C extraction. In evaluating the extraction time of Capsicum annuum L. leaf, extraction yield increased as the extraction time increased, but antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity were the highest at 60 min of extraction. These results suggest that the optimum extraction conditions of Capsicum annuum L. leaf are hot water for 60 min at 100°C, and the extracts can be used as a functional food resource.
Implicacions de les noves pràctiques de publicació en mitjans digitals per a la creació de relats digitals personals
Authors: Fuertes-Alpiste Marc , Molas-Castells Núria , Quintana Abalat Jordi , Herreros Navarro Miguel
Published: June 2022

Objectius: en aquest article s'estudien les pràctiques narratives informals i quotidianes d'adolescents i joves. Es pretén identificar on i com publiquen històries i quins continguts publiquen, i veure com aquestes pràctiques es podrien aprofitar en activitats educatives formals de creació de relats digitals personals (RDP).
 Metodologia: per tal d’assolir els objectius de la investigació, s'ha dut a terme un estudi d'enquesta, de tipus quantitatiu i descriptiu, amb una mostra de 378 estudiants de dotze a vint-i-dos anys de Catalunya i d'Andalusia.
 Resultats: els resultats han permès identificar els perfils dels participants com a publicadors i s'han detectat quatre implicacions per a les activitats amb RDP: 1) el telèfon mòbil intel·ligent és el dispositiu predominant, 2) la mobilitat i la ubiqüitat del dispositiu poden impregnar les pràctiques amb RDP, 3) la identificació de noves possibilitats de composició dels relats, afegint altres capes de significació i 4) aquestes noves publicacions poden ajudar en la selecció de temes dels RDP.
Denúncia i autodefensa d'assetjament sexual i violències a Uber : històries d'usuàries a Twitter i Tiktok
Authors: Pires Fernanda , Vilasís Pamos Julia , Anglada Pujol Ona , Masanet María José
Published: June 2022

En aquest article, ens centrem a explorar les històries compartides a les xarxes socials des de la perspectiva de les dones que pateixen diferents violències i inseguretats en utilitzar els serveis de transport d'Uber. Per això, aquest article té els objectius específics següents: 1) identificar i explorar les històries compartides a les xarxes socials que expliquen violències i abusos viscuts per les usuàries d'Uber per raó de gènere, i 2) identificar i explorar les mesures de protecció i seguretat que s'articulen per mitjà de les xarxes socials per fer front a aquestes situacions de violència i abusos. Per a això, hem realitzat una observació sistemàtica no participant a les xarxes socials Twitter i TikTok, en les quals hem identificat continguts de denúncia, autodefensa, prevenció i sensibilització. Es pot concloure que la major part de les denúncies se situen en l'àmbit de les experiències i es tracta d'històries d'usuàries que expressen les violències i els abusos viscuts durant l'ús dels serveis de transport d'Uber. Els continguts d'autodefensa compartits a les xarxes socials es configuren com a eines que serveixen per afrontar situacions d'assetjament. No obstant això, aquestes eines manquen d'una esfera de mobilització col·lectiva.
Metrics of color-difference formula improvement
Authors: Carter Robert Charles , García Pedro A. , Melgosa Manuel , Brill Michael H.
Published: June 2022

Metrics of color-difference formula improvement (i.e., standardized residual sum of squares and Pearson product moment correlation) are shown to convey the same information. Furthermore, each metric has two computational forms that assume different linear data models, specifically, with or without an ordinate intercept. It is essential to choose a computational form that matches the data model. We recommend explicitly declaring whether or not the data have been centered, i.e., by subtracting the mean value from each datum, to match the intercept-free data model. Statistical testing of the metrics assumes independent, normally distributed randomness of residuals from the data model, and homogeneous variance. Procedures consistent with these assumptions include robust statistical tests, homogenizing data transformations, and meta-analysis.
Unitary rotation of pixellated polychromatic images
Authors: Urzúa Alejandro R. , Wolf Kurt Bernardo
Published: June 2022

Unitary rotations of polychromatic images on finite two-dimensional pixellated screens provide invertibility, group composition, and thus conservation of information. Rotations have been applied on monochromatic image data sets, where we now examine closer the Gibbs-like oscillations that appear due to discrete “discontinuities” of the input images under unitary transformations. Extended to three-color images, we examine here the display of color at the pixels where, due to oscillations, some pixel color values may fall outside their required common numerical range [0,1], between absence and saturation of the red, green, and blue formant colors we choose to represent the images.
Technologically feasible quasi-edge states and topological Bloch oscillation in the synthetic space
Authors: Wu Xiaoxiong , Wang Luojia , Li Guangzhen , Cheng Dali , Yu Danying , Zheng Yuanlin , Yakovlev Vladislav V. , Yuan Luqi , Chen Xianfeng
Published: June 2022

The dimensionality of a physical system is one of the major parameters defining its physical properties. The recently introduced concept of synthetic dimension has made it possible to arbitrarily manipulate the system of interest and harness light propagation in different ways. It also facilitates the transformative architecture of system-on-a-chip devices enabling far reaching applications such as optical isolation. In this report, a novel architecture based on dynamically-modulated waveguide arrays with the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger configuration in the spatial dimension is proposed and investigated with an eye on a practical implementation. The propagation of light through the one-dimensional waveguide arrays mimics time evolution of the field in a synthetic two-dimensional lattice. The addition of the effective gauge potential leads to an exotic topologically protected one-way transmission along adjacent boundary. A cosine-shape isolated band, which supports the topological Bloch oscillation in the frequency dimension under the effective constant force, appears and is localized at the spatial boundary being robust against small perturbations. This work paves the way to improved light transmission capabilities under topological protections in both spatial and spectral regimes and provides a novel platform based on a technologically feasible lithium niobate platform for optical computing and communication.
Distortion spot correction and center location base on deep neural network and MBAS in measuring large curvature aspheric optical element
Authors: Chen Jinbiao , Chen Meiyun , Wu Heng , Xie Shengli , Kiyoshi Takamasu
Published: June 2022

Large curvature aspheric optical elements are widely used in visual system. But its morphological detection is very difficult because its accuracy requirement is very high. When we use the self-developed multi-beam angle sensor (MBAS) to detect large curvature aspheric optical elements, the accuracy will be reduced due to spot distortion. Therefore, we propose a scheme combining distorted spot correction neural network (DSCNet) and gaussian fitting method to improve the detection accuracy of distorted spot center. We develop a spot discrimination method to determine spot region in multi-spot images. The spot discrimination threshold is obtained by the quantitative distribution of pixels in the connected domain. We design a DSCNet, which corrects the distorted spot to Gaussian spot, to extract the central information of distorted spot images by multiple pooling. The experimental results demonstrate that the DSCNet can effectively correct the distorted spot, and the spot center can be extracted to sub-pixel level, which improves the measurement accuracy of the MBAS. The standard deviations of plano-convex lenses with curvature radii of 500 mm, 700 mm and 1000 mm measured with the proposed method are respectively 0.0112 um, 0.0086 um and 0.0074 um.
Accurate optical optimization of light-emitting diodes with consideration of coupling between Purcell factor and transmittance coefficient
Authors: Huang Siyuan , Chen Yongpin , Yang Yang (Michael) , Sha Wei E. I.
Published: June 2022

The calculation method for light emission efficiency splits external quantum efficiency (EQE) into internal quantum efficiency (IQE) and light extraction efficiency (LEE) independently. Consequently, the IQE connected to Purcell factor and the LEE are calculated separately. This traditional method ignores the interplays between the Purcell factor and transmittance coefficient in spectral domain, which all strongly depend on emitting directions. In this work, we propose a new figure of merit to describe the light emission process accurately by using the direction-dependent Purcell factor and transmittance coefficient simultaneously. We use a specific LED structure as a numerical example to illustrate the calculation method and optimization procedure.
Three-stimulus control ultrasensitive Dirac point modulator using an electromagnetically induced transparency-like terahertz metasurface with graphene
Authors: Zhang Yonggang , Qiu Fu , Liang Lanju , Yao Haiyun , Yan Xin , Liu Wenjia , Huang Chengcheng , Yao Jianquan
Published: June 2022

This letter presents a fabricated Dirac point modulator of a graphene-based terahertz electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT)-like metasurface (GrE & MS). Dynamic modulation is realized by applying three stimulus modes of optical pump, bias voltage, and optical pump–bias voltage combination. With increasing luminous flux or bias voltage, the transmission amplitude undergoes two stages: increasing and decreasing, because the graphene Fermi level shifts between the valence band, Dirac point, and conduction band. Thus, an approximate position of the Dirac point can be evaluated by the transmission spectrum fluctuation. The maximum modulation depth is measured to be 182% under 1 V. These findings provide a method for designing ultrasensitive terahertz modulation devices.
High-aperture low-coherence interferometer with a diffraction reference wave
Authors: Toropov Mikhail , Chkhalo Nikolay , Malyshev Ilya , Salashchenko Nikolay
Published: June 2022

A high-aperture low-coherence interferometer with a diffraction reference wave based on a tipped single-mode optical fiber was proposed and investigated. Due to the usage of the central least-aberrated region of the diffracted wavefront, the interferometer comprise record working aperture among known PDIs. The interferometer makes it possible to study samples with a reflectance that varies over a wide range. A demonstration of the use of this interferometer for high-precision measurements of a spherical mirror is presented. Sub-nanometer reproducibility of measurements in terms of the peak to valley (PV) parameter and sub-angstrom reproducibility in terms of the rms are demonstrated.
Femtosecond laser-shockwave induced densification in fused silica
Authors: Radhakrishnan Arunkrishnan , Gateau Julien , Vlugter Pieter , Bellouard Yves
Published: June 2022

A tightly focused femtosecond laser-beam in the non-ablative regime can induce a shockwave sufficiently intense to reach local pressures in the giga-Pascal range or more. In a single beam configuration, the location of the highest-pressure zone is nested within the laser-focus zone, making it difficult to differentiate the effect of the shockwave pressure from photo-induced and plasma relaxation effects. To circumvent this difficulty, we consider two spatially separated focused beams individually acting as quasi-simultaneous pressure-wave emitters. The zone in between the two laser beams where both shockwaves superpose forms a region of extreme pressure range, physically separated from the regions where the plasma formed. Here, we present a detailed material investigation of pressured-induced densification in fused silica occurring in between the foci of two laser beams. The method used is generic and can be implemented in a variety of transparent substrates for high-pressure physics studies. Unlike classical methods, such as the use of diamond anvils, it potentially offers a means to create arbitrary patterns of laser-induced high-pressure impacted zones by scanning the two beams across the specimen volume.
The connecting cilium inner scaffold provides a structural foundation that protects against retinal degeneration
Authors: Mercey Olivier , Kostic Corinne , Bertiaux Eloïse , Giroud Alexia , Sadian Yashar , Gaboriau David C. A. , Morrison Ciaran G. , Chang Ning , Arsenijevic Yvan , Guichard Paul , Hamel Virginie
Published: June 2022

Inherited retinal degeneration due to loss of photoreceptor cells is a leading cause of human blindness. These cells possess a photosensitive outer segment linked to the cell body through the connecting cilium (CC). While structural defects of the CC have been associated with retinal degeneration, its nanoscale molecular composition, assembly, and function are barely known. Here, using expansion microscopy and electron microscopy, we reveal the molecular architecture of the CC and demonstrate that microtubules are linked together by a CC inner scaffold containing POC5, CENTRIN, and FAM161A. Dissecting CC inner scaffold assembly during photoreceptor development in mouse revealed that it acts as a structural zipper, progressively bridging microtubule doublets and straightening the CC. Furthermore, we show that Fam161a disruption in mouse leads to specific CC inner scaffold loss and triggers microtubule doublet spreading, prior to outer segment collapse and photoreceptor degeneration, suggesting a molecular mechanism for a subtype of retinitis pigmentosa.
A weighted constraint satisfaction approach to human goal-directed decision making
Authors: Li Yuxuan , McClelland James L.
Published: June 2022

When we plan for long-range goals, proximal information cannot be exploited in a blindly myopic way, as relevant future information must also be considered. But when a subgoal must be resolved first, irrelevant future information should not interfere with the processing of more proximal, subgoal-relevant information. We explore the idea that decision making in both situations relies on the flexible modulation of the degree to which different pieces of information under consideration are weighted, rather than explicitly decomposing a problem into smaller parts and solving each part independently. We asked participants to find the shortest goal-reaching paths in mazes and modeled their initial path choices as a noisy, weighted information integration process. In a base task where choosing the optimal initial path required weighting starting-point and goal-proximal factors equally, participants did take both constraints into account, with participants who made more accurate choices tending to exhibit more balanced weighting. The base task was then embedded as an initial subtask in a larger maze, where the same two factors constrained the optimal path to a subgoal, and the final goal position was irrelevant to the initial path choice. In this more complex task, participants’ choices reflected predominant consideration of the subgoal-relevant constraints, but also some influence of the initially-irrelevant final goal. More accurate participants placed much less weight on the optimality-irrelevant goal and again tended to weight the two initially-relevant constraints more equally. These findings suggest that humans may rely on a graded, task-sensitive weighting of multiple constraints to generate approximately optimal decision outcomes in both hierarchical and non-hierarchical goal-directed tasks.
Geospatial analysis of the associations between environmental contamination with livestock feces and children with chronic fascioliasis in the Anta province of Cusco, Peru
Authors: Tanabe Melinda Barbara , Prochaska John , Morales Maria Luisa , Lopez Martha , Baca-Turpo Benicia , Arque Eulogia , Cabada Miguel Mauricio
Published: June 2022

Fasciola hepatica is a neglected parasitic infection with significant human health and livestock industry impact. The Andean Altiplano harbors an estimated 50% of the Fasciola’s world infection burden. There is scarce data regarding the spatial associations between different Fasciola hosts. In this project, we aimed to determine the geospatial relationships between Fasciola eggs passed in feces of different livestock species and the risk of infection among each household as a unit. We used data from a cross-sectional study evaluating children and livestock feces for Fasciola infection around households in three districts of Anta province, in the Cusco region of Peru. Each sample was geographically tagged and evaluated for fascioliasis using microscopy methods. A total of 2070 households were included, the median age was 9.1 years (6.7–11.8), 49.5% were female, and 7.2% of the households had at least one infected child. A total of 2420 livestock feces samples were evaluated. The infection rate in livestock samples was 30.9%. The highest infection rate was found in sheep with 40.8%, followed by cattle (33.8%), and swine (26.4%). The median distance between a household with an infected child to a positive animal sample was 44.6 meters (IQR 14.7–112.8) and the distance between a household with no infected children to a positive animal sample was 62.2 meters (IQR 18.3–158.6) (p = 0.025). The multivariable logistic regression adjusted by presence of poor sanitation, unsafe water consumption, altitude, and presence of multiple infected children per household demonstrated an association between household infection and any cattle feces at a 50 meters radius (Uninfected: OR 1.42 (95%CI 1.07–1.89), p = 0.017. Infected: OR 1.89 (95%CI 1.31–2.73), p = 0.001), positive cattle feces at a 100 meters radius (OR 1.35 (95% CI 1.08–1.69), p = 0.008), and negative cattle feces at a 200 meters radius (OR 1.08 (95% CI 1.01–1.15), p = 0.022). We identified potential hot and cold spots for fascioliasis in the Anta province. An association between environmental contamination with feces from different livestock species and infected children in rural households was found in our study. Local health authorities may apply this strategy to estimate the risk of infection in human populations and apply targeted interventions.
Prognostic impact of steatosis in the clinical course of chronic HCV infection—Results from the German Hepatitis C-Registry
Authors: Rau Monika , Buggisch Peter , Mauss Stefan , Boeker Klaus H. W. , Klinker Hartwig , Müller Tobias , Stoehr Albrecht , Schattenberg Jörn M. , Geier Andreas
Published: June 2022

Background

Liver steatosis is often observed in chronic HCV infection and associated to genotype or comorbidities. NAFLD is an important risk factor for end-stage liver disease. We aimed to analyse the course of NAFLD as a concomitant disease in a cohort of HCV patients.

Methods

The German Hepatitis C-Registry is a national multicenter real-world cohort. In the current analysis, 8789 HCV patients were included and separated based on the presence of steatosis on ultrasound and/or histology. Fibrosis progression was assessed by transient elastography (TE), ultrasound or non-invasive surrogate scores.

Results

At the time of study inclusion 12.3% (n = 962) of HCV patients presented with steatosis (+S) (higher rate in GT-3). Diabetes mellitus was more frequent in GT-1 patients. HCV patients without steatosis (-S) had a slightly higher rate of fibrosis progression (FP) over time (30.3%) in contrast to HCV patients +S (26%). This effect was mainly observed in GT-3 patients (34.4% vs. 20.6%). A larger decrease of ALT, AST and GGT from baseline to FU-1 (4–24 weeks after EOT) was found in HCV patients (without FP) +S compared to -S. HCV patients -S and with FP presented more often metabolic comorbidities with a significantly higher BMI (+0.58kg/m2) compared to patients -S without FP. This was particularly pronounced in patients with abnormal ALT.

Conclusion

Clinically diagnosed steatosis in HCV patients does not seem to contribute to significant FP in this unique cohort. The low prevalence of steatosis could reflect a lower awareness of fatty liver in HCV patients, as patients -S and with FP presented more metabolic risk factors.
The role of cryptocurrency in the dynamics of blockchain-based social networks: The case of Steemit
Authors: Ba Cheick Tidiane , Zignani Matteo , Gaito Sabrina
Published: June 2022

A shift of paradigm is running over online social platforms: the over-centralization of these platforms is leaving room for decentralized solutions based on blockchain technologies, such as blockchain-based online social networks—BOSNs. Among the many unknown aspects of these techno-social systems, the objective of this study is to propose an analytical framework to assess the impact of the cryptocurrencies linked to a BOSN platform on the evolution of its social network and on the behavior of their users, in terms of production of content and/or its promotion through a voting and rewarding system. The framework has been applied to Steemit, one of the most widespread BOSNs, from which we collected three-year-long high-resolution data on its evolution along with the price of its main cryptocurrencies. On users’ activities extracted from these longitudinal data, we applied a time-series correlation analysis and a correlation analysis between the action allocation strategies and the obtained rewards, in the case of most central accounts. The analysis has highlighted pieces of evidence of the influence of the cryptocurrency price on users’ actions, particularly on actions that shape the structure of the social networks. Second, we also found highly rewarded users prefer actions related to the promotion of content rather than the creation of high-quality content, exploiting the reward distribution mechanisms implemented by the platform. These findings highlight that the shift of paradigm towards blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies might strengthen the influence of financial and economic factors rather than relational/social aspects on the evolution of these new complex techno-social systems.
Assessment of heavy metals accumulation in agricultural soil, vegetables and associated health risks
Authors: Ullah Nehar , Ur Rehman Maqsood , Ahmad Bashir , Ali Irshad , Younas Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad Sagheer , Rahman Atta-ur , Taheri Ensiyeh , Fatehizadeh Ali , Rezakazemi Mashallah
Published: June 2022

Industrialization plays a vital role in the development of a country’s economy. However, it also adversely affects the environment by discharging various unwanted and harmful substances such as heavy metals into the surface and subsurface aquifers. The current research work investigates the identification, characterization, and evaluation of specific heavy metals in industrial wastewater (IWW) and different composite samples of soil and vegetables (onion, pumpkin, lady finger, and green pepper) collected from selected agricultural fields irrigated with canals fed IWW in Mingora city of Swat (Pakistan). Obtained results were compared with the tube well water irrigated soil and vegetables grown in it. Heavy metals accumulation was tested through wet digestion method and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The metal transfer factor (MTF) of heavy metals from soil to vegetables was also determined along with the health index (HI) to assess the potential health risk of the metals towards consumers using Monte Carlo simulation technique. Analysis of water samples showed that the concentration in mg l-1 of heavy metals in IWW follows the trend Fe (6.72) > Cr (0.537) > Pb (0.393) > Co (0.204) > Mn (0.125) > Ni (0.121). Analysis of the soil samples irrigated with IWW followed the order of Fe (47.27) > Pb (2.92) > Cr (2.90) >Ni (1.02) > Mn (0.90) > Co (0.68) and Fe (17.12) > Pb (2.12) > Cr (2.03) >Ni (0.76) > Co (0.49) > Mn (0.23) irrigated with TWW. Heavy metals concentration values found in soil irrigated with IWW were higher than the soil irrigated with TWW. Similar trends were found for agricultural produces grown on soil irrigated with IWW and found higher than the normal allowable WHO limits, indicating higher possibilities of health risks if continuously consumed. MTF values were found higher than 1 for ladyfinger and green pepper for Pb intake and pumpkin for Mn intake. The current study suggests the continuous monitoring of soil, irrigation water and agricultural products to prevent heavy metals concentration beyond allowable limits, in the food chain. Thus, concrete preventive measures must be taken to reduce heavy metal accumulation through wastewater irrigation to protect both human and animal health in the study area of Mingora Swat Pakistan.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome among patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to treatment center of Wollega University Referral Hospital, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Tolossa Tadesse , Merdassa Atomssa Emiru , Fetensa Getahun , Bayisa Lami , Ayala Diriba , Turi Ebisa , Wakuma Bizuneh , Mulisa Diriba , Seyoum Dejene , Getahun Ayantu , Shibiru Tesfaye , Fekadu Ginenus , Desalegn Markos , Bikila Haile
Published: June 2022

Background

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a life-threatening condition that has a significant effect on the occurrence of morbidity and mortality among patients with severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To the best of researchers’ knowledge, there is no Study on ARDS of COVID-19 in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence of ARDS and associated factors among severe COVID-19 patients at Wollega University Referral Hospital.

Methods

An institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from September 20, 2020, to June 10, 2021. Real-Time Reverse transcription-polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) test was used to test Patients for COVID-19. Epi-data version 3.2 was used for data entry, and the final data analysis was through STATA version 14. After checking the assumption P-value<0.25 in the bivariable analysis was used to select a candidate variable for multi-variable analysis, and a p-value of <0.05 was used to declare statistical significance.

Results

In this study, the prevalence of ARDS was 32%. Almost all the patients had the clinical feature of cough (93.7%), followed by shortness of breath (79.9%), fever (77.7%), and headache (67%). Age older than 65 years (AOR = 3.35, 95%CI = 1.31, 8.55), male gender (AOR = 5.63, 95%CI = 2.15, 14.77), and low oxygen saturation level (AOR = 4.60, 95%CI = 1.15, 18.35) were the independent predictors of ARDS among severe COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion

The prevalence of ARDS among patients with severe COVID-19 was high in the study area. Therefore, elders and patients with critical conditions (low oxygen saturation) better to get special attention during COVID-19 case management to enhance good care and monitoring of the patients.
Relationship between bisphenol A, bisphenol S, and bisphenol F and serum uric acid concentrations among school-aged children
Authors: Lee Yun Jeong , Lim Youn-Hee , Shin Choong Ho , Kim Bung-Nyun , Kim Johanna Inhyang , Hong Yun-Chul , Cho Yong Min , Lee Young Ah
Published: June 2022

Background

Hyperuricemia has a suspected relationship with hypertension, metabolic syndrome, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease. Endocrine disruptors may affect uric acid metabolism; however, few epidemiologic studies have been performed in children regarding newly developed bisphenol A (BPA) substitutes. We evaluated the associations between BPA, bisphenol S (BPS), and bisphenol F (BPF) exposure and serum uric acid concentrations in 6-year-old Korean children.

Methods

From the Environment and Development of Children cohort study, six-year-old children (N = 489; 251 boys) who underwent an examination during 2015–2017 were included. Anthropometry, questionnaires, and biological samples were evaluated. BPA, BPS, and BPF levels were measured from spot urine samples, and log-transformed or categorized into groups for analysis. We constructed linear regression models adjusting for age, sex, urinary creatinine levels, body mass index z-scores, and estimated glomerular filtration rates.

Results

Mean serum uric level was 4.2 mg dL-1 (0.8 SD) without sex-differences. Among the three bisphenols, higher BPS exposure was associated with increased serum uric acid concentrations (P-value for trend = 0.002). When BPS levels were categorized into three groups (non-detection < 0.02 μg L-1 vs. medium BPS; 0.02–0.05 μg L-1 vs. high BPS ≥ 0.05 μg L-1), the high BPS group showed higher serum uric acid concentrations (by 0.26 mg dL-1, P = 0.003) than the non-detection group after adjusting for covariates, which was significant in boys but not girls.

Discussions

Urinary BPS levels was positively associated with serum uric acid concentrations in 6-year-old children, and the association was more pronounced in boys. Considering the increasing use of BPS and concerning effect of hyperuricemia on health outcomes, their positive relationship should be investigated further.
Incorporating management opinion in green supplier selection model using quality function deployment and interactive fuzzy programming
Authors: Khattak Beenish Khan , Naseem Afshan , Ullah Mehran , Imran Muhammad , El Ferik Sami
Published: June 2022

The need for environmental protection and involvement of ecological aspects in the business operations is forcing the organizations to re-examine their action plans and rebuild their supply chain activities. Many organizations are incorporating environmental rules and regulations in their everyday matters by focusing on green supplier selection. The proposed research paper develops a multi-objective interactive fuzzy programming model for the selection of suppliers. This model works on a business quartet of green appraisal score, cost, quality, and time. The model uses an environmental scale for different green parameters and all the suppliers are scored based on this scale. In this research model, Quality Function Deployment (QFD) methodology is integrated with the multi-objective interactive fuzzy programming. QFD technique is utilized to compute the weights of several green factors used for the selection of suppliers. The model uses a Fuzzy linguistic scale and a triangular membership function to link expert opinions along with their experience to solve the problem. Finally, the model is validated on a numerical case study of the textile industry for green supplier selection which achieves a 100% satisfaction for cost and time, 75% satisfaction for green appraisal score, and 93.95% for the quality. The proposed model assists the decision-makers in selecting green suppliers to improve the overall sustainability of their organizations.
What is a meaningful life for persons with acquired neurological impairments? A scoping review protocol
Authors: Steensgaard Randi , Hundborg Michele Offenbach , Pallesen Hanne , Aadal Lena
Published: June 2022

Objective

This scoping review explores the constitution of a meaningful life as perceived by adults with acquired neurological impairment following an injury or a disease.

Introduction

A neurological injury or disease imposes extensive life changes on the affected person and his or her close relatives. Including the patients’ perception of a meaningful life is crucial to facilitate adjustment of any rehabilitation initiatives to the patients’ wishes, hopes, needs, and preferences. Even so, the descriptions and common traits of a meaningful life from the impaired person’s perspective are scarcely covered in the literature. Hence, a scoping review of existing knowledge is needed to facilitate quality rehabilitation and research initiatives.

Inclusion criteria

All studies, regardless of their design, are included provided they describe a meaningful life as considered or experienced by persons aged 18 years or more with neurological impairment.

Methods

A PICo framework defines the search algorithms used in the databases MEDLINE, Cinahl, PsycINFO and Embase. Using Covidence, the scoping review systematically organizes the identified articles to provide a broad description of the study phenomenon. Furthermore, titles, abstracts, and full-text articles are screened independently by two reviewers to determine if they meet the inclusion criteria. In case of disagreement, a third and fourth reviewer are consulted. The scoping will be reported according to the PRISMA- SCR checklist.
Evaluation of a mobile application tool (BiliNorm) to improve care for newborns with hyperbilirubinemia in Indonesia
Authors: Sampurna Mahendra T. A. , Ratnasari Kinanti A. , Irawan Zahra S. , Etika Risa , Utomo Martono T. , Corebima Brigitta I. R. V. , Sauer Pieter J. J. , Bos Arend F. , Hulzebos Christian V. , Dijk Peter H.
Published: June 2022

Background

Severe hyperbilirubinemia is more frequent in low- and middle-income countries such as Indonesia than in high-income countries. One of the contributing factors might be the lack of adherence to existing guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. We developed a new national guideline for hyperbilirubinemia management in Indonesia. To help healthcare workers use this guideline, a web-based decision support tool application may improve both the adherence to the guideline and the care for infants with hyperbilirubinemia.

Methods

We developed a web-based application (BiliNorm) to be used on a smartphone that displays the bilirubin level of the patient on the nomogram and advises about the treatment that should be started. Healthcare workers of two teaching hospitals in East Java, Indonesia, were trained on the use of BiliNorm. At 6 months after the introduction, a questionnaire was sent to those who worked with the application enquiring about their experiences. An observational study was conducted in two time epochs. A chart review of infants with hyperbilirubinemia in the two hospitals was sent. The appropriateness of hyperbilirubinemia management during a 6-month period before BiliNorm introduction was compared to that during a 7-month period after its introduction.

Results

A total of 43 participants filled in the questionnaire, the majority (72%) of them indicated that BiliNorm was well received and easy to use. Moreover, 84% indicated that BiliNorm was helpful for the decision to start phototherapy. Chart review of 255 infants before BiliNorm introduction and that of 181 infants after its introduction indicated that significantly more infants had received treatment according to the guideline (38% vs 51%, p = 0.006). Few infants received phototherapy, but bilirubin level was not measured (14% vs 7%, p = 0.024). There was no difference in the proportion of infants who were over- and under-treated (34% vs 32% and 14% vs 10%, respectively).

Conclusions

The web-based decision tool BiliNorm appears to be a valuable application. It is easy to use for healthcare workers and helps them adhere to the guideline. It improves the care for infants with hyperbilirubinemia and may help reduce the incidence of severe hyperbilirubinemia in Indonesia.
Predictors of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder in patients with Parkinson’s disease based on random forest and decision tree
Authors: Chong-Wen Wu , Sha-Sha Li , Xu E.
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives

Sleep disorders related to Parkinson’s disease (PD) have recently attracted increasing attention, but there are few clinical reports on the correlation of Parkinson’s disease patients with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD). Therefore, this study conducted a cognitive function examination for Parkinson’s disease patients and discussed the application effect of three algorithms in the screening of influencing factors and risk prediction effects.

Methods

Three algorithms (logistic regression, machine learning-based regression trees and random forest) were used to establish a prediction model for PD-RBD patients, and the application effects of the three algorithms in the screening of influencing factors and the risk prediction of PD-RBD were discussed.

Results

The subjects included 169 patients with Parkinson’s disease (Parkinson’s disease with RBD [PD-RBD] = 69 subjects; Parkinson’s disease without RBD [PD-nRBD] = 100 subjects). This study compared the predictive performance of RF, decision tree and logistic regression, selected a final model with the best model performance and proposed the importance of variables in the final model. After the analysis, the accuracy of RF (83.05%) was better than that of the other models (decision tree = 75.10%, logistic regression = 71.62%). PQSI, Scopa-AUT score, MoCA score, MMSE score, AGE, LEDD, PD-course, UPDRS total score, ESS score, NMSQ, disease type, RLSRS, HAMD, UPDRS III and PDOnsetage are the main variables for predicting RBD, along with increased weight. Among them, PQSI is the most important factor. The prediction model of Parkinson’s disease RBD that was established in this study will help in screening out predictive factors and in providing a reference for the prognosis and preventive treatment of PD-RBD patients.

Conclusions

The random forest model had good performance in the prediction and evaluation of PD-RBD influencing factors and was superior to decision tree and traditional logistic regression models in many aspects, which can provide a reference for the prognosis and preventive treatment of PD-RBD patients.
Societal participation in ehlers-danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorder, compared to fibromyalgia and healthy controls
Authors: De Baets Stijn , Cruyt Ellen , Calders Patrick , Dewandele Inge , Malfait Fransiska , Vanderstraeten Guy , Van Hove Geert , van De Velde Dominique
Published: June 2022

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder affect daily life. There is a lack of research that investigates how the disease affects aspects of participation. This study investigates whether there is a difference in the level of participation in society in persons with vascular EDS (N = 18), hypermobile EDS (N = 20), classical EDS (N = 4) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (N = 27), compared to a healthy control group (N = 69) and fibromyalgia (N = 69). In this retrospective case-control study, the Ghent Participation Scale was completed by all participants. Each patient with EDS and HSD was matched by age and sex to healthy controls. The hEDS and HSD group were compared with the healthy control group and a positive control group (persons with fibromyalgia). The results show that there was a significant lower overall participation score for persons with hEDS/HSD compared to the healthy control group. In addition, significant differences were observed in the subscores self-performed activities and delegated activities in the hEDS/HSD group compared to healthy controls, being HEDS/HSD patients who obtained the lower scores. Further research is needed to obtain representative results of the participation level for the EDS/HSD population. In this way, interventions can be set up for patients with EDS in an evidence-based way and that are appropriate to the patient’s level of participation.
Association of mucin family members with prognostic significance in pancreatic cancer patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Wei , Zhang Man , Liu Lu , Yin Minyue , Xu Chunfang , Weng Zhen
Published: June 2022

Objective

The role of biomarkers in the early diagnosis and prognosis prediction of tumors has been paid more and more attention by researchers. Mucins are markers that have been found to have an abnormal expression in many tumors in recent years, which have been proved to have a predictive effect on the prognosis of tumors such as cholangiocarcinoma and colon cancer. However, whether it can predict the prognosis of pancreatic cancer remains unknown. The purpose of our study is to investigate whether the mucins and their subtypes are related to the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We systematically searched the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for all eligible studies on the relationship between mucin and the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer up to November 2021. We used R 4.12 to calculate the combined risk ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). For studies that did not provide HR values, we used scientific methods to calculate their values as accurately as possible. We used fixed effect model due to low heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were used to study heterogeneity. The funnel plot and Egger test were used to test whether the publication bias existed. The trim and filling method were used to evaluate the impact of publication bias on the results of the study.

Results

A total of 18 studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 4 subtypes of mucin family members and 1643 patients. There was a slight heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 24.4%, P = 0.14). Meta-analysis showed that MUC4 (HR = 2.04, 95%CI 1.21;3.45), MUC16 (HR = 2.10, 95%CI 1.31;3.37), and whole mucin (HR = 1.32, 95%CI 1.07;1.63). The expression level was negatively correlated with the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients, MUC1 (HR = 1.09, 95%CI 0.77;1.54), MUC5 (HR = 1.03, 95%CI 0.47;2.25) The expression level was not related to the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients.

Conclusion

The meta-analysis demonstrated that the overall expression level of mucin and the expression levels of MUC4 and MUC16 were important prognostic predictors for pancreatic cancer patients. MUC1 and MUC5 had no predictive value for the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients. Future studies should validate these and other promising biomarkers.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number is CRD42021291962.https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021291962.
Damaged Dickinsonia specimens provide clues to Ediacaran vendobiont biology
Authors: Retallack Gregory J.
Published: June 2022

Recently reported specimens of the enigmatic Ediacaran fossilDickinsoniafrom Russia show damage and repair that provides evidence of how they grew, and of their biological affinities. Marginal and terminal areas of wilting deformation are necrotic zones separating regenerated growth, sometimes on two divergent axes, rather than a single axis. Necrotic zones of damage toDickinsoniaare not a thick scar or callus, like a wound or amputation. Nor are they smooth transitions to a regenerated tail or arm. The wilted necrotic zone is most like damage by freezing, salt, or sunburn of leaves and lichens, compatible with evidence of terrestrial habitat from associated frigid and gypsic paleosols.Dickinsoniadid not regrow by postembryonic addition of modules from a subterminal or patterned growth zone as in earthworms, myriapods, trilobites, crustaceans, and lizards. RatherDickinsoniapostembryonic regrowth from sublethal damage was from microscopic apical and lateral meristems, as in plants and lichens. Considered as fungal,Dickinsonia, and perhaps others of Class Vendobionta, were more likely Glomeromycota or Mucoromycotina, rather than Ascomycota or Basidiomycota.
Comparing the effects of multimedia and face-to-face pain management education on pain intensity and pain catastrophizing among patients with chronic low back pain: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Shaygan Maryam , Jaberi Azita , Firozian Roghayyeh , Yazdani Zahra
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Previous studies into Low Back Pain (LBP) assessed the effects of physical interventions or face-to-face (FTF) education mostly in western cultures. The present study aimed to compare the effects of multimedia and FTF pain management education (PME) on pain intensity and pain catastrophizing among participants with chronic LBP.

Methods

This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on ninety participants with chronic LBP randomly allocated to either multimedia, FTF, or control groups. Participants in the multimedia group received PME through watching seven educational CDs at home and their counterparts in the FTF group received the same educations in seven weekly FTF educational sessions. Pain intensity (using a numerical rating scale) and pain catastrophizing (using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale) were assessed before, immediately after, and one month after the study intervention. The effects of the interventions were assessed using the repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Effect size and minimal detectable change (MDC) were reported for both variables. The regression model used in the present study was Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE).

Findings

The findings of MANOVA showed the significant effects of time on pain intensity and pain catastrophizing (P<0.001). The Tukey’s test showed that before and immediately after the intervention, the mean scores of pain intensity and pain catastrophizing in the FTF and PME groups were significantly different from the control group (P<0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively). MDC did not show clinically significant changes in the mean score of pain intensity and GEE revealed significant difference among the groups.

Conclusion

The findings suggested that multimedia PME is as effective as FTF education in reducing pain intensity and pain catastrophizing among participants with LBP. Future studies into the effects of education on LBP are recommended to consider longitudinal designs, a reliable cutoff score for pain catastrophizing, and participants’ physical ability.

IRCT registration code

IRCT20180313039074N1.