bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programa de prevención universal para factores de riesgo de trastornos alimentarios en adolescentes mexicanas: un estudio piloto
Authors: Cueto-López Julia
Published: March 2022

El objetivo general de este estudio fue describir el efecto de un programa interactivo de prevención universal sobre las conductas alimentarias de riesgo (CAR), la insatisfacción corporal (IC), la influencia del modelo estético de delgadez (IMED), conocimientos de nutrición, ansiedad y depresión en adolescentes entre 12 y 15 años de edad. Se trabajó con una muestra de 98 adolescentes mexicanas, quienes contestaron, antes y después de la intervención, el Test de Actitudes Alimentarias-26, el Cuestionario de Imagen Corporal-8D, el Cuestionario de Influencias sobre el Modelo Estético Corporal-26, la Escala de Ansiedad y Depresión Hospitalaria y el Cuestionario de Nutrición. En el grupo experimental se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el pretest y el postest (U de Mann Whitney, p < ,05), con menores puntuaciones totales en las CAR, la IMED, IC y ansiedad, y un aumento en los conocimientos de nutrición en la fase postest, con un tamaño del efecto de pequeño a grande (r = ,18 - ,58). Las participantes presentaron un cambio clínico objetivo positivo en las CAR (54%), IMED (59%), conocimientos de nutrición (54%) y ansiedad (50%), y poco más de la tercera parte presentaron una disminución depresión (31%) e IC (37%). Se concluye que el programa de intervención basado en alfabetización de los medios generó efectos positivos en adolescentes respecto a la prevención de las CAR, IC, IMED, ansiedad, depresión y aumentó de los conocimientos en nutrición. Palabras clave: conductas alimentarias de riesgo; alfabetización de los medios; prevención; replicabilidad; adolescentes
Effect of different types of available litter materials on the performance and welfare of broiler chicks
Authors: Abougabal Mohammed Sh. , Taboosha Mossad F. , Shehata Abdelrazeq M.
Published: March 2022

This study was conducted to evaluate the quality of some locally available litter materials and their impacts on productivity, health status, carcass traits and welfare as well as the economic efficiency of broiler chickens reared on these types of litter. A total of 450 one-day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into equal five experimental groups, three replicates each. The groups of five different litter materials were as follows; wood shaving (WD), wheat straw (WS), sand (SL), bean straw (BS) and rice husk (RH). Physical and physicochemical characteristics of litter types were measured at 7, 21 and 42 days of age. The results indicated that each type of litter had unique physical and physicochemical characteristics and affected the most studied traits. Compared to the other groups, WD and SL significantly improved growth performance (BWG, ADG, final LBW, FI, FCR and EPEI). Moreover, WD and SL improved (P < 0.05) the economic efficiency, behavior patterns, and birds’ welfare. It is concluded that among the available litter materials tested in this study, sand can be used as an alternative litter of straw- and rice husk-based litter for broiler chickens without adverse implications on birds’ performance and welfare.
CD3+CD4-CD8- double-negative lymphocytes are increased in the aqueous humour of patients affected by retinitis pigmentosa: their possible role in mediating inflammation
Authors: Bacherini Daniela , Maggi Laura , Sodi Andrea , Vannozzi Lorenzo , Mazzoni Alessio , Capone Manuela , Virgili Gianni , Falsini Benedetto , Cosmi Lorenzo , Rizzo Stanislao , Annunziato Francesco , Giansanti Fabrizio , Liotta Francesco
Published: March 2022

Background
Recently, evidence has arisen supporting a significant role for immune and oxidative mediated damage underlying the pathogenesis of different types of retinal diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Our study aims to evaluate the possible presence of immune cells and mediators in patients affected by RP using flow cytometric analysis of the aqueous humour (AH).
Methods
We recruited 12 patients affected by RP and 9 controls undergoing cataract surgery. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, fundus color photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), Goldmann kinetic perimetry, electroretinographic and genetic tests. Flow cytometric analysis of of peripheral blood (PB) and AH samples provided a membrane staining which targeted surface molecules (CD14, CD16, CD19, CD3 and CD4, CD8, CD161) identifying monocytes, natural killer (NK), B, T cells, and T subpopulations respectively. Moreover, lymphocytes were polyclonally stimulated to evaluate cytokine (CK) production at single cell level.
Results
The circulating immune-cell distribution was comparable between RP patients and controls. Conversely, in the AH of controls we could detect no cells, while in the RP AH samples we found infiltrating leucocytes, consisting of T (CD3+), B (CD19+), NK (CD16 + CD3-) cells and monocytes (CD14+). In the RP patients the frequency of most infiltrating cell populations was substantially comparable between the AH and PB, while among T subpopulations, the frequency of CD3 + CD4 + T cells was significantly reduced in the RP AH compared to PB, and CD3 + CD4-CD8- double-negative (DN) T cells resulted markedly and significantly increased in the RP AH. The analysis of the cytokine production showed a trend towards an increased frequency of CD3 + CD8-CD161 + IFN-ɣ-producing cells and a decrease of CD3 + CD8 + IL-4-producing cells in the RP AH.
Conclusions
The detection of immune cells in the AH of patients with RP is consistent with the hypothesis of an immune-mediated pathogenesis of the disease. The presence of CD3 + CD4-CD8- DN T cells and of a Th1-skewed phenotype in the AH could be related to a potential involvement of immune-mediated and inflammatory mechanisms in the disease. A better understanding of the fundamental features of inflammation pathways will provide significant insights in the pathogenesis of RP, and a possible avenue toward new therapeutic approaches.
Soft Metaclustering for Unsupervised Recognition of Concept Drift
Authors: Ferone Alessio , Maratea Antonio
Published: March 2022

Streaming data analysis presents numerous challenges: the unbounded and sequential nature of the stream requires evolving models in order to capture its intrinsic non-stationarity and related concept drift. Relatively few methods for the detection of the drift are unsupervised and require no labels during training. In this paper, a soft and dynamic metaclustering approach is used for concept drift detection on streaming data. The pro posed method exploits possibilistic memberships for a natural quantifica tion of the drift and is able to effectively recognize both abrupt and recur ring drift. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been assessed on synthetic data from a public benchmark, yielding notable results.
Predictive factor analysis and scoring system for radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer: a retrospective study.
Authors: Liu Ye , Wang Yuhua , Zhang Wanchun
Published: March 2022

Background
The incidence of thyroid cancer has been rising worldwide. Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) originates from abnormal follicular cells and accounts for about 90–95% of thyroid malignancies. The diagnosis of radioiodine-refractory DTC (RR-DTC) is based on clinical evolution and iodine-intake characteristics rather than pathological characteristics, so it takes a long time to become apparent, and the definition of RR-DTC covers multiple aspects. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical and molecular imaging characteristics of patients with RR-DTC and identify independent predictors to develop an RR-DTC scoring system. We reviewed data on 404 patients with metastatic DTC who underwent both radioactive iodine therapy scanning and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Data on the clinical features and molecular characteristics of RR-DTC and non-RR-DTC were obtained from the medical records. We screened for predictors using univariate analyses, obtained independent predictors through multivariate analyses, then established a scoring system for predicting RR-DTC according to the corresponding odds ratio (OR) values.
Results
Diagnosis at age ≥ 48 years (OR, 1.037; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.007–1.069), recurrence between the operation and iodine-131 treatment (OR, 7.362; 95% CI, 2.388–22.698), uptake of 18F-FDG (OR, 39.534; 95% CI, 18.590–84.076), and the site of metastasis (OR, 4.365; 95% CI, 1.593–11.965) were highly independently associated with RR-DTC. We established a scoring system for predicting RR-DTC, showing that the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with a cut-off value of 10 points (AUC = 0.898) had a higher discernibility than any other single independent predictor.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that a predictive model based on four factors has a good ability to predict RR-DTC. An index score ≥ 10 was found to be the optimal index point for predicting RR-DTC. This model may help to establish an active surveillance or appropriate treatment strategy for cases of RR-DTC.
Short-term wind speed prediction based on FEEMD-PE-SSA-BP
Authors: Zhu Ting , wang wenbo , YU MIN
Published: March 2022

As one of the renewable energy power generation methods, wind power generation shows a high growth trend. However, while wind power is connected to the grid,the volatility and instability of wind power make the power system produce a lot of uncertain fluctuations, which greatly affects the power quality and jeopardizes the stable operation of the power system. Therefore, high wind speed forecasting accuracy can provide a solid basis for grid management,, improve the power system's ability to consume wind power, and ensure the safety and stabilization of the power system. In order to solve the problem of inaccurate prediction caused by the non-linearity and unsteadiness of wind speed series, this paper proposes a Fractal Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (FEEMD)-Permutation Entropy (PE)-Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA)-Error Back Propagation (BP) neural network method for short-term wind speed prediction. This method first uses the fractal dimension-based ensemble empirical modal decomposition (FEEMD) to decompose the original wind speed in order from high to low frequency; then calculates the entropy value of each component, and merges the components with similar entropy values to effectively reduce the computation; finally, the new sub-series are predicted by SSA-BP model, and the predicted value of the merged new sub-sequence is accumulated to obtain the final wind speed prediction result. The simulation study shows that the proposed prediction model is not only fast and accurate, but also suitable for short-term wind speed prediction.
The Probabilistic behavior of AquaCrop parameters: A Monte-Carlo Study
Authors: Etedali Hadi Ramezani , adabi vahid , Gorgin Faraz , azizian asghar
Published: March 2022

Crop growth models are multi-outputs and can be valuable tools for the quantification of crop growth and production. However, these models usually require several input data, which are costly, time-consuming, and sometimes impossible to measure. These input parameters are mostly estimated by calibration and inverse solving. In this study, five output variables of the AquaCrop model, including soil evaporation, crop transpiration, evapotranspiration, crop biomass at maturity, and grain yield, were investigated to study 47 genotypic input parameters on the output time series of the model for wheat in the Qazvin Synoptic Station. The SAFE toolbox in the Matlab environment was used to study the GSA and uncertainty of inputs and their impact on outputs. Applying the Monte-Carlo-based methods on closed-source models is not as easy as open-source models. The uncertainty in the outputs of the validated AquaCrop model in simulating wheat yield in the Qazvin Synoptic Station over 36 years was analyzed using the Generalized Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation (GLUE) method. The uncertainty in the outputs of the validated AquaCrop model in simulating wheat yield in the Qazvin station over 36 years was analyzed using the GLUE method. Using RMSE<0.9 as the threshold in a 95% confidence level, the best parameter sets included all the observations. Results showed that evaporation and yield are the least reliable outputs of the AquaCrop model that have not been calibrated, while others consider them reliable. After that, the new domain of each output was determined based on the two indexes. Then we modified the domain to reduce its size. Finally, the probabilistic behavior of each input on outputs were introduced by the Easy Fit software. The significant result of this study is that the probabilistic nature of the input parameter that is calibrated for a particular output variable can differ from other output variables. Also, when we trust a specific run of the model (calibrated run) as observed data, the uncertainty bounds covering are very high. Finally, we utilized the GLUE to optimize multi-output models by introducing one unique, optimized PDF for each input parameter for all outputs estimated by collecting all accepted output series of all target outputs.
What position does Spain occupy in the EU-28 (2008-2017) from the standpoint of natural and managerial efficiency?
Authors: Yñiguez Rocio , Sanz-Diaz Maria teresa , Ortega-Irizo Francisco Javier , Velasco-Morente Francisco
Published: March 2022

The European Union (EU) has become the group of countries most interested in the fight against climate change and is therefore committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This research analyses the Natural and Managerial efficiency of the EU-28 countries for the period 2008–2017. The Data Envelopment Analysis methodology is used and Natural and Managerial Malmquist indices are obtained by assuming that a shift in the efficiency frontier exists and by considering that frontier crossings are possible across the different periods considered. The input variables used are those of Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF), non-emitting energy consumption, and employment. Gross domestic product (GDP) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are taken as the desirable and undesirable output variables, respectively.The results of the analysis indicate that both Natural and Managerial efficiency have worsened in Spain during the period considered, whereby Spain has dropped in the relevant ranking. With regard to the Malmquist Index (MI), during this entire period, the position of the evolution of Spain in relation to all EU countries was better within the sphere of Managerial efficiency, than in that of Natural efficiency.JEL Classification: Q532
A New Method for Environmental Risk Assessment of Pollutants Based on Multi-dimensional Risk Factors
Authors: Li Le , Dong Yuying , Chen Yuting , Jiao Jian , Zou Xuejun
Published: March 2022

Deterioration of watershed environment and pollutant discharge had seriously threatened human health and ecosystem function. The importance of improving risk warning system is becoming more and more prominent. Traditional chemical risk assessment methods focused on toxicity and exposure of pollutants without considering the impact of persistent pollutants in different environmental media. So there are cases which pollutants that have been assessed as safe using these methods end up being classified as persistent organic pollutants. In this study we proposed a synthetical risk factor (SRF) analysis with multi-dimensional evaluation of pollutants. The new method integrated toxicity endpoint values, environmental exposure level, persistent properties and compartment features from various dimensions. Selected pesticides, perfluorinated compounds, organophosphate and endocrine disruptors were analyzed with both SRF and risk quotient (RQ) methods. The results showed, a higher risk outcome using SRF analysis for PFOS, imazalil, testosterone, androstenedione and bisphenol A, which were different from those obtained with RQ method but were consistent with existing risk management. The study demonstrated that SRF method improved risk assessment of various pollutants in surface water in a more robust fashion, and also provided a more accurate decision basis for ecological environment protection.
PM2.5 and PM10 air pollution peaks are associated with emergency department visits for psychotic and mood disorders: an eleven-year study
Authors: Pignon Baptiste , Borel Cynthia , Lajnef Mohamed , Richard Jean-Romain , Szöke Andrei , Hemery François , Leboyer Marion , Foret Gilles , Schürhoff Franck
Published: March 2022

Particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 µm (PM 10 ) or less than 2.5 µm (PM 2.5 ) are major air pollutants poorly studies regarding psychiatric disorders. We aimed to explore the association between PM 10 and PM 2.5 air pollution peaks and the daily number of emergency visits for psychotic and mood disorders. Clinical data were collected from the Emergency department of the Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Henri-Mondor (Créteil, France) from 2008 to 2018. Air pollution data were collected from public databases. Pollution peaks periods were defined as days for which the daily mean level of PM was above nationally predefined warning thresholds (20 µg/m 3 for PM 2.5 , and 50 µg/m 3 for PM 10 ), and the 6 following days. Multivariable analyses compared the number of daily visits for psychotic and mood disorders according to pollution peak period. After adjustment on meteorological variables, the daily number of emergency visits for psychotic disorders was significantly higher during with PM 2.5 and PM 10 air pollution peaks periods; while the number of visits for unipolar depressive disorders was higher only during PM 10 peaks periods (β=0.059, p-value=0.034). There was no significant differences concerning bipolar disorders. Differences in the effects of PM air pollution on psychotic and mood disorders should be analyzed in further studies.
Predictive Effect of Different Blood Lipid Parameters Combined with Carotid Intima-Media Thickness on Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Hu Xiangming , Yu Bingyan , Li Wei , Zhou Langping , Lin Yan , Wang Weimian , Li Guang , Zhou Yingling , Dong Haojian
Published: March 2022

Background
Blood lipids disorder and atherosclerosis are closely related to coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aims to compare different blood lipid parameters combined with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in predicting CAD.
Methods
This was a retrospective study including patients who underwent coronary angiography for highly suspected CAD. Blood samples were taken for lipid profile analysis and cIMT was evaluated by carotid ultrasound. Logistic analysis was used to establish different models of different lipid parameters in predicting CAD. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to examine the predictive value. The optimal lipid parameter was also used to explore the relationship with multi-vessel CAD.
Results
Patients were classified into two groups based on whether CAD existed. There was no difference in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) between the two groups. Compared with non-CAD patients, the CAD group had higher lipoprotein (a) (Lp (a)), apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C. According to the AUCs, Lp (a) combined with cIMT (AUC: 0.713, P < 0.001) had the best performance in predicting CAD compared to other lipid parameters. High levels of Lp (a) was also associated with multi-vessel CAD (odds ratio: 1.41, 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.95, P = 0.036).
Conclusion
For patients with highly suspected CAD, Lp (a) better improved the predictive value of CAD rather than most of blood lipid indices, especially in the absence of high levels of LDL-C. Lp (a) also can be used to predict the multi-vessel CAD.
Quantitative Traits Loci and candidate gene mapping for Quinones and Phenolic Biosynthesis in Nigella sativa L. using pseudo-chromosome Assembly Arusa Aftab, Zubaida Yousaf, Zill-e-Huma Aftab, Nadia Riaz, Bushra Shamsheer
Authors: Rashid Madiha , Younas Afifa , Yousaf Zubaida , Aftab Zille Huma , Riaz Nadia , Shamsheer Bushra , Yasin Hamna
Published: March 2022

Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping is a genome-wide inference of the relationship between genotype at various genomic locations and phenotype for a set of quantitative traits in terms of the number, genomic positions, effects, and interaction of QTL. The Quinones and phenolics are the products of Geranyl diphospohate synthase (GPPS). Thymoquinone (TQ), dithymoquinone (DTQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ), and thymol (THY) are the most important pharmacologically active quinone based constituents in Nigella sativa (Black seed oil). Quantitative trait loci, candidate genes and associated morphological markers for these traits have been identified and located in the N.sativa genome. The breeding and genetic improvement of N. sativa is highly restricted due to unexplored high-density genetic map. The study was planned to map the genes linked to quinonens ane phenolics biosynthesis in N. sativa. Two inbred parental lines W626529 and W626530 differing in some phenotypic characters were selected for the study. To construct genetic linkage map and locate QTLs, F1 population of 150 crossed individuals was grown and subsequently produced 50 recombinant inbred lines (RIL). Chromosomal linkage map was constructed using 719 polymorphic pairs; consisted of 14 morphological markers and 705 SSRs through Join Map ver. 3.0. Chromosomal mapping was done using pseudochromosome assembly using Win QTL Cart Software. Single Marker Analysis was done to link QTLs with the morphological and molecular markers. Only 5 morphological traits out of 16 were found to be linked to the QTL. Chromosomal marker linkage was ensured at a minimum likelihood of odds (LOD) > 1.5 and maximum distance 50 cM. Interval mapping led to the detection of eight QTLs on 12 linkage groups; LG1, LG2, LG5, LG6, LG8, LG9 and LG11. The detection of eight QTLs on 12 linkage groups confirmed the influence of both morphological and molecular markers on linked traits and inheritance. The genetic map and improved pseudo-chromosome scale genome provide crucial foundations for marker-assisted selection (MAS) of QTL governing important agronomic traits as well as the accelerated molecular breeding of N. sativa in a cost-effective pattern.
Subtercola endophyticus sp. nov., a cold-adapted bacterium isolated from Abies koreana
Authors: Jiang Lingmin , Peng Yuxin , Seo Jiyoon , Jeon Doeun , Jo Mi-Gyeong , Lee Ju Huck , Jeong Jae Cheol , Kim Cha Young , Park Hyeong Cheol , Lee Jiyoung
Published: March 2022

A novel Gram-stain-positive, aerobic bacterial strain, designated AK-R2A1-2T, was isolated from surface-sterilized needle leaves of an Abies koreana tree. Strain AK-R2A1-2T was closely related to Subtercola boreus K300T and Subtercola lobariae 9583bT with 97.3% and 96.7% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, respectively, and it formed a distinct phyletic lineage from these two strains. Growth of strain AK-R2A1-2T was observed at 4–25°C with pH 5.0–8.0. Strain AK-R2A1-2T contained menaquinone 9 (MK-9) and menaquinone 10 (MK-10) as the predominant respiratory quinones. The major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15:0 and summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c or/and C18:1ω6c), and the polar lipids comprised diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), and three unknown aminolipids (AKL2, AKL3, and AKL4). The complete genome of strain AK-R2A1-2T was sequenced to understand the genetic basis of the survival strategy of the strain in low temperatures. Multiple copies of cold-associated genes involved in cold-active chaperon, stress response, and DNA repair supported survivability of the strain at low temperatures. Finally, this strain could significantly improve rice seeding growth under low temperatures. Strain AK-R2A1-2T is concluded to represent a novel species of the genus Subtercola, and the proposed name is Subtercola endophyticus sp. nov. The type strain is AK-R2A1-2T (= KCTC 49721T = GDMCC 1.2921T).
Physical mapping of qDTH3 for heading date reveals the evolutionary history of cultivated rice
Authors: Ikegaya Tomohito , Shirasawa Kenta , Fujino Kenji
Published: March 2022

Crop breeding programs can improve traits associated with desirable phenotypic characteristics to different local environmental conditions. In rice, such improvements were achieved depending on genetic diversity among local populations. Here, we examined whether differences in traits of elite varieties are due to genetic differences and from what the genetic differences are derived. Previously, we identified one quantitative trait locus associated with heading date, i.e., the quantitative trait locus for days to heading on chromosome 3 (qDTH3). Using 592 plants of the F2 generation, fine mapping narrowed the qDTH3 locus down to a 158-kb region of the corresponding rice reference genome. Based on the genome sequences of a 656-kb region including the qDTH3 locus among four Oryza species populations, we propose the historic evolutionary process of cultivated rice, considering nucleotide polymorphisms and intrapopulation recombination. Phenotypic differences in qDTH3 in elite varieties may be derived from a different lineage split from the ancestor.
A potential decision-making algorithm based on endoscopic ultrasound for staging early gastric cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: YAN YAN , Ma Zhonghua , Ji Xin , Ji Ke , Li Shijie , Wu Qi
Published: March 2022

Background Clinical staging of gastric cancer (GC) before treatment is essential. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a recommended staging tool, but its efficacy remains controversial. Our previous prospective study evaluated the potential value of EUS for T staging and presented discrepancies. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of EUS in T staging by comparing it with pathological staging. We analyze the factors that can potentially affect accuracy to identify suitable subgroups for EUS staging.Methods Data from a total of 1763 consecutive patients with GC from January 2015 to December 2017 were analyzed. Results from EUS and pathological T staging were compared. The factors that might affect EUS’s accuracy were analyzed.Results The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of EUS in patients with early GC were 62.08%, 96.13%, 90.94%, and 80.21%, respectively. The accuracy rates of uT1, uT2–uT4, and uT3–uT4 were 90.94%, 79.02%, and 78.39%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, underestimation was more likely to be observed in patients with tumors located in the middle or upper third of the stomach. Overestimation was more likely to be observed in patients with tumors located in the lower third or those without ulcer. Other factors affecting accuracy included ulcer, differentiation, larger size and undergoing surgery.Conclusion Our findings highlight the role of EUS in determining the T staging of GC. Overestimation and underestimation in T-staging were significantly associated with the tumor location in early GC, and a decision-making algorithm was proposed for clinical practice in early cancers based on these findings.
Gynecological cancer patients’ experiences with eHealth technology and partly nurse-led consultations in a follow-up setting: A qualitative study
Authors: Skorstad Mette , Ingvild Vistad , Berntsen Sveinung , Johannessen Berit
Published: March 2022

Background
In the last decade, there has been a move toward personalized care, with a focus on the diversity of survivorship needs after initial cancer treatment. Empowering patients to actively participate in their own health management and survivorship care is encouraged. Consequently, a new follow-up model, called Lifestyle and Empowerment Techniques in Survivorship of Gynecologic Oncology (LETSGO), for gynecological cancer patients was developed and piloted at a Norwegian hospital. In LETSGO, a dedicated nurse replaced the physician in every second follow-up consultation. The nurse provided the patients with self-management techniques following cancer treatment, reinforced with eHealth technology (a specially designed app). Encouragement of behavioral change and evaluation of the late effects of treatment and recurrence symptoms were central aspects of the self-management techniques. The app further encouraged physical activity and positive lifestyle change, helped identify recurrence-related symptoms, and provided reminders on activity goals. This study aimed to investigate the views on alternating nurse-led and physician-led care supported by eHealth technology among participants who piloted the LETSGO intervention.
Methods
Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted to analyze how the participants experienced the LETSGO intervention 6–7 months after the intervention onset.
Results
All LETSGO pilot study’s participants felt safe and well taken care of. They perceived the nurses as being less busy than doctors, which made it easy for them to bring up any cancer-related challenges. Most participants reported increased empowerment and confidence in being able to recognize symptoms of cancer recurrence. Half of the participants used the app regularly and were motivated to increase their levels of physical activity. Some experienced technical errors with the app.
Conclusions
Overall, partly nurse-led consultations and eHealth technology were well-received among the participants. An intervention study is required for further evaluation. The reported technical app errors should be resolved and tested prior to eHealth application implementation. This study reports gynecological cancer patients’ perspectives of nurse-led follow-up and the use of eHealth technology, and is expected to be useful in personalized survivorship care planning.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03453788. Registration 5 March 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03453788
The pandemic within the pandemic: the surge of neuropsychological disorders in Italian children during the COVID-19 era.
Authors: Bozzola Elena , Ferrara Pietro , Spina Giulia , Villani Alberto , Roversi Marco , Raponi Massimiliano , Corsello Giovanni , Staiano Annamaria
Published: March 2022

BackgroundQuarantine and isolation measures during COVID-19 pandemic may have caused additional stress and challenged mental health of the youth. Aim of the study is to investigate the COVID-19 pandemic impact on neuropsychological disorders (NPD) of Italian children and adolescents to provide general pediatric recommendations.Material and methodsA retrospective multicenter observational study was planned by the Italian Pediatric Society (SIP) to explore the impact of COVID-19 on the access of children to pediatric Emergency Departments (pED) for the evaluation of neuropsychological symptoms, collecting the classification codes of diagnoses between March 1, 2019 and March 2, 2021. The period study was split into two sub-periods: a pre COVID-19 period (from March 1 2019 to March 1, 2020) and a COVID-19 period (from March 2, 2020 to March 2, 2021). As additional information, data on NPD hospitalizations in any pediatric department of the involved centers were recorded.ResultsDuring the study period, a total of 533,318 children were admitted to the pED involved in the study. Despite a 48.2% decline of pED admissions, there was a significant increase (83.1%) in patient admissions for NPD. The most frequent NPD conditions which increased during the COVID-19 pandemic were suicidal ideation (+ 147%), depression (+ 115%), eating disorder (+ 78.4%), and psychosis (+ 17.2%). During the pandemic period, a 39.5% increase in NPD hospitalizations was observed as well. The NPD disorders that mostly required hospitalizations were suicidal ideation (+ 134%), depression (+ 41.4%), eating disorder (+ 31.4%), and drug abuse (+ 26.7%).DiscussionThe COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on children's health, mainly on their NPD development. Neuropsychological assessment should be required at the primary level, in the pediatrician's office, to facilitate early capture of the sign of impairment and provide an adequate treatment.Conclusion. SIP underlines the psychological consequences of COVID 19 pandemic on the youngest and recommend an early identification of NPD in the pediatric population to avoid other serious consequences for children's physical and mental health.
Dynamic stability of salt stable cowpea chlorotic mottle virus capsid protein dimers and pentamers of dimers
Authors: Fejer Szilard , Szövérfi János
Published: March 2022

Parts of the self-assembly process of the salt stable cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (ss-CCMV) capsid can be modelled atomistically on realistic computational timescales only if we focus on the dissociation of protein complexes instead of their aggregation. The aim of the current study is to find and understand the conditions that lead to the separation of ss-CCMV capsid protein dimers. Our previous studies showed that among the three possible interfaces in the icosahedral capsid, two (T1 and T2) are important during capsid formation. Long timescale molecular dynamics simulations of the various dimers and the pentamer of dimers underscore the importance of large contact surfaces on stabilizing the capsid subunits within an oligomer. At higher temperature, the N-terminal tails of the protein units act as tethers, delaying dissociation for all but the most stable (T1) interfaces, therefore their flexibility likely has an important role during the self-assembling process, as tethering increases the effective concentration of the monomers and the likelihood of finding native contacts. The pentamer of dimers is also found to be stable on long timescales, with an inherent flexibility of the outer protein chains.
Wall Shear Stress Differences Between Arterial and Venous Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts One Month After Surgery
Authors: Tran-Nguyen Nhien , Condemi Francesca , Yan Andrew , Fremes Stephen , Triverio Piero , Jimenez-Juan Laura
Published: March 2022

Although coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is a well-established intervention, graft failure can occur, and the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. The purpose of this prospective study is to utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to investigate how graft hemodynamics one month post surgery may vary among graft types, which have different long-term patency rates. Twenty-four grafts from 10 participants (64.6 ± 8.5 years, 9 men) were scanned with coronary CT angiography and 4D flow MRI one month after CABG surgery. Grafts included 10 left internal mammary arteries (LIMA), 3 radial arteries (RA), and 11 saphenous vein grafts (SVG). Image-guided CFD was used to quantify blood flow rate and wall area exposed to abnormal wall shear stress (WSS). Arterial grafts had a lower abnormal WSS area than venous grafts (17.9% vs. 70.1%; p = 0.001), and a similar trend was observed for LIMA vs. SVG (13.8% vs. 70.1%; p = 0.001). Abnormal WSS area correlated positively to lumen diameter (p < 0.001) and negatively to flow rate (p = 0.001). This CFD study is the first of its kind to prospectively reveal differences in abnormal WSS area 1 month post surgery among CABG types, suggesting that WSS may influence the differential long-term graft failure rates observed among these groups.
Calculation of tooth thickness errors and its influence on meshing backlash of harmonic drive
Authors: Yang Congbin , Ma Honglie , Zhang Tao , Zheng Jigui , Liu Zhifeng , Cheng Qiang
Published: March 2022

Meshing backlash mainly determines the transmission accuracy of harmonic drive, which is an important index in design. In this paper, a design method of short tooth involute profile is proposed, which relies on positive modification to enhance the strength of dedendum. By intercepting part of tooth profile, the meshing interference of addendum can be effectively avoided. Based on the dimensions of over pins of circular spline and flexspline, a calculation method of tooth thickness deviation is proposed, and the positive and negative of tooth thickness deviation are defined. Involute functions need not be calculated by this method, which simplifies the solution process. By discretizing the teeth profile points of circular spline and flexspline, a calculation method of time-varying backlash is proposed, the variation of backlash in the process of meshing in and out is analyzed, and the influence law of tooth thickness deviation on backlash is studied. On this basis, an algorithm of adjusting the radial deformation to compensate the backlash is proposed. The results show that the excessive backlash in the meshing area can be reduced by increasing the radial deformation. when meshing interference occurs, the interference free meshing can be realized by decreasing the radial deformation.
Laboratory study of adsorption kinetics of benzene and toluene contaminants on copper oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Farahbod Farshad
Published: March 2022

In recent years, various studies have been defined on the removal of contaminants from the soil. This shows the importance of this issue and human attention to a healthy ecosystem and human health. The petroleum derivatives are one of the most important pollutants in industrial effluents, especially oil effluents. In this study, the soil contaminated with oil derivatives was washed and then the resulting effluent was in contact with copper oxide nanoparticles. In this study, the concentrations of benzene and toluene in the effluent are 5.8, 6.3, 6.9, 7.2, 8.1, 8.7, 9.8, 10.3, 10.8, 11.2, 11.5 and 12.1 mg/l, respectively. In this work, the effect of variables such as initial concentration of pollutants, time and acidity on the absorption efficiency of these pollutants was investigated. Laboratory results indicate that the highest removal efficiencies of benzene and toluene occur at concentrations of 6.3 and 6.9, respectively. Also, other results show that the maximum adsorption of benzene and toluene occurs on the surface of copper oxide nanoparticles if the acidity of the effluent is 9.7 and 5.6, respectively. The presented results show that the equilibrium data of adsorption of benzene and toluene pollutants follow the quadratic kinetic model and intraparticle diffusion model.
Experimental Evidence for E = n 1 2 hν Energy Transfer
Authors: P. Bhanumoorthy
Published: March 2022

Crystal diffraction involves energy transfer into and from the crystal. Bragg’s law defines an inter-planar spacing as 2π radians and corresponds to E = 12.4/λ which is E = nhν energy transfer. Energy interval between adjacent peaks measured in the historic Davisson-Germer experiment demonstrated E = 6.2/λ which is E = n 1 2 hν energy transfer. One-full oscillation in 2π radians is one-full quantum energy and one-half oscillation in π radians is one-half quantum energy. The phenomenon of E = n 1 2 hν energy transfer defines the Maxwell diffraction law 2dk sin θk = λ in terms of diffraction angle θk where inter-planar spacing dk becomes π radians characteristic of an anti-node of a standing wave. Cartesian description cannot accommodate π in place of 2π. Spherical polar coordinate description alone can include angle dependence measured in the experiment to determine orbital structure and bonding schemes of individual atoms. The Maxwell diffraction law in place of Bragg’s law becomes the starting point for the new field of partial wave quantum crystallography to use experimental precision angles for direct method solution to phase problem for macromolecular crystallography
Fe[4-(3-Phenylpropyl)pyridine]2[Fe(CN)5NO]: A 2D coordination polymer with thermally-induced spin transition and nature of its asymmetric hysteresis loop
Authors: Scanda K. , Avila Y. , Mojica R. , Cano A. , Gonzalez M. , Rodríguez-Hernández Joelis , Reguera Edilso
Published: March 2022

The titled material crystallizes with an orthorhombic unit cell, in the P21212 space group (Nr. 18). Its crystal structure was solved and refined from XRD powder patterns. The solid framework is formed by stacked undulated sheets of inorganic nature, Fe[Fe(CN)5NO], separated by bimolecular organic pillars, [4-(3-Phenylpropyl)pyridine]2, which remain coordinated to the axial coordination sites for the iron atom and occupy the interlayer region. The molecules forming these pillars remain coupled through C-H⋅⋅⋅π and dispersive interactions between neighboring molecules. When this solid is cooled and then warming, a reversible spin transition, from high to low spin (HS → LS), and vice versa, is observed. This transition occurs in the temperature interval of 135–165 K, with a hysteresis between them of about 20 K. That hysteresis loop appears with a pronounced asymmetry when the slopes for the HS → LS and LS → HS transitions are compared. This effect is discussed in terms of the related structural changes in the solid structure during the spin transitions. The transition was also monitored from IR and Raman spectra recorded at 80 and 300 K. Relevant information on the electronic structure for both, the LS and HS phases of this material, was derived from the corresponding XPS spectra recorded at 114 and 270 K. This contribution emphasizes the role of the nitrosyl group (NO) as an electron buffer for tuning the bonding properties of the inorganic layer at the CN 5σ orbital to make possible the observed thermally-induced SCO behavior.
An anatomical and radiological study of the tectorial membrane and supradental venous plexus: its clinical significance in traumatic craniovertebral dislocation
Authors: Lee Shin Hyo , Cho Tae-Hyeon , Kwon Hyun-Jin , Hong Ju Eun , Lee Young Han , Yang Hun-Mu
Published: March 2022

The radiological image of an intact tectorial membrane (TM) became an important favorable prognostic factor for craniovertebral instability. This study visualized the fascial layers of the TM and adjacent connective tissues with clinical significance by micro-CT and histological analysis. The TM firmly attached to the bony surface of the clivus, traversed the atlantoaxial joint posteriorly, and was inserted to the body of the axis showing wide distribution on the craniovertebral junction. The supradental space between the clivus, dens of the axis, anterior atlantooccipital membrane, and the TM contained profound venous networks within the adipose tissues. At the body of the axis, the compact TM layer is gradually divided into multiple layers and the deeper TM layers reached the axis while the superficial layer continued to the posterior longitudinal ligament of the lower vertebrae. The consistent presence of the fat pad and venous plexus in the supradental space and firm stabilization of the TM on the craniovertebral junction was demonstrated by high-resolution radiologic images and histological analysis. The evaluation of the TM integrity is a promising diagnostic factor for traumatic craniovertebral dislocation.
High-risk Human Papillomavirus 16/18 in oral mucosa and cervix of sexually active women: A comparative pilot study using conventional nested PCR and an in house real-time PCR
Authors: Ramesh Pushkal Sinduvadi , Vyas Rahul , Satishchandra Ruthvik , Arun Brunda , Suma K B , Nataraj Suma M , Shetty Avinash , Shetty Veena , Devegowda Devananda
Published: March 2022

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to be associated with both cervical and oropharyngeal cancers, yet little are known about the co-occurrence of similar HPV subtypes in these subsites. With the changing sexual behaviour it is necessary to evaluate the risk of a woman with abnormal cervix developing cancer of the oropharynx. A study evaluating HPV infection in both oral mucosa and the cervix is therefore needed to understand the co-occurrence of HPV infection in 2 different sites. Methods: Oral mucosa and cervical wash specimens were collected from a total of 100 women aged 20-60 years who visited for routine Pap test. DNA was extracted and then subjected to an in house real-time PCR and conventional nested PCR for the detection high risk HPV 16/18 subtypes. A limit of detection was established using serially diluted HPV positive DNA from cell lines and the sensitivity and specificity of both the assays were evaluated. Results: The prevalence of HPV-16/18 in the cervical samples (19.7% vs 6.2%) and the oral mucosa (16.6% vs nil) were higher as detected by our in house real-time PCR in comparison to the conventional nested PCR. Oral HPV infection was found in 25% of the women with SCC of the cervix. Conclusion: Due to the changing sexual behaviour there is a possibility that women with HPV-related cervical lesions can easily transfer the virus to the partner or even self-inoculate which might lead to the development of lesions in the head & neck turning into cancer.
Dichotomine B attenuates neuroinflammatory responses via regulating TLR4/MyD88-mTOR signaling pathway in BV2 cells
Authors: Zhou Xirong , Quan Hongfeng , Zang Lingling , Dong Lin
Published: March 2022

Dichotomine B is a β-Carboline alkaloid isolated from Stellariae Radix. Stellariae Radix is a common Chinese medicine in clinical practice. This herb has been proved to have anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of Dichotomine B on neuroinflammation by BV2 microglia induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The experiment was divided into control group, model group (10 µg/mL LPS + 5mM ATP), model + TLR4 inhibitor (TAK-242, 10 µmol/L) group, model + Dichotomine B (20, 40 and 80 µmol/L) groups and Dichotomine B (80 µmol/L) group. The BV2 cell viability was detected by MTT assay, the morphology of BV2 cells was observed by inverted microscope, the levels of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in BV2 cells were determined by ELISA. The expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-mTOR/mTOR, p62, p-RPS6/RPS6, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ and Beclin-1 proteins were detected by western blot assay. The expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, mTOR, p62, RPS6, LC3B and Beclin-1 mRNA were detected by PCR assay. Finally, the molecular docking was performed to predict the affinity of Dichotomine B with TLR4, MyD88 and mTOR by LibDock of Discovery Studio. The results showed that compared with the model group, the survival rates of damaged cells were significantly increased by TAK-242 and Dichotomine B, and the morphology of these BV2 cells improved. The levels of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly decreased by TAK-242 and Dichotomine B in LPS/ATP-induced BV2 cells. 80 µmol/L Dichotomine B have no effect on normal BV2 cells. Further mechanism investigation showed that TAK-242 and Dichotomine B significantly inhibited the protein and mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-mTOR/mTOR (mTOR), p62, p-RPS6/RPS6 (RPS6) and increased the protein and mRNA expression levels of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ (LC3B), Beclin-1. Docking study showed the LibDock scores of Dichotomine B with TLR4, MyD88 and mTOR were all higher than those of positive drugs (Diazepam). These findings indicated that Dichotomine B attenuated neuroinflammatory responses in LPS/ATP-induced BV2 microglia, and its mechanism may be related to TLR4/MyD88-mTOR signaling pathway and autophagy.