bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Blended-Learning Course for a Global Health Workforce: Evaluation of Quality Indicators and a Peer-Review Process for Online Learning
Authors: Crawford Ana Maria , Changoor Alana T. , Rubio-Martinez Rodrigo , Mohammed Alhassan Datti , Ntambwe Papytcho T.
Published: July 2022

Background: Inequities in health outcomes across contexts are in part attributable to gaps in available medical training programs particularly impacting low- and middle-income countries. Shifting education resources online presents an opportunity to democratize access but presents challenges. Quality in digital scholarship is crucial to prevent learners’ consumption of misinformation, while ensuring continued scholarly contribution from medical educators. Quality indicators typical for journals do not neatly apply to online resources and remain biased against those facing resource constraints. Similarly, widely applied peer-review processes for online learning content are lacking or inconsistent. Methods: Partners developed and implemented a 12-month, case-based discussion webinar series addressing Oxygen Therapy and Critical Care for healthcare workers facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the survey responses from webinar panelists across the globe, this project evaluated whether 3 criteria were met by panelists to serve as peer-reviewers and evaluated the quality of the blended-learning program by applying Glassick’s standards of scholarship and the 13 quality indicators for online content developed by Lin et.al.Results: There was a response rate of 72%. Fifty-six percent of respondents were from high-income countries and 44% were from low- and middle-income countries. Most panelists met criteria set for peer-reviewers, although criteria were met more often by those from high-income countries. Most respondents perceived preparation of materials for the blended -learning sessions as extremely adequate, appropriate, and effective. The online content was evaluated highly across the three domains of content, credibility, and design.Conclusions: The Oxygen Therapy and Critical Care series was well-received by learners and panelists alike. Quality across all indicators was deemed high for both the blended-learning and the online learning components. Defining quality indicators assists in both prospective design of online learning and during peer-review processes. The process of using webinar panelists as peer-reviewers is feasible, appropriate and presents opportunities for experts from low- and middle-income countries.
Long non-coding RNA KCND1 protects hearts from hypertrophy
by targeting YBX1
Authors: Hou Yumeng , Li Liangliang , Yang Rui , Li Yingnan , Zhang Jing , Yang Na , zhang yuhan , Ji Weihang , Yu Tong , Lv Lifang , Lu Yanjie , Li Xuelian , li tianyu , Shan Hongli
Published: July 2022

Cardiac hypertrophy is a common structural remodeling in many cardiovascular diseases. Recently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were found to be involved in the physiological and pathological processes of cardiac hypertrophy. In this study, we found that lncRNA KCND1 (LncKCND1) was downregulated in both transverse aortic constriction (TAC)-induced hypertrophic mouse hearts and Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes. Further analyses showed that knockdown of LncKCND1 impaired cardiac mitochondrial function and lead to hypertrophic changes in cardiomyocytes. In contrast, overexpression of LncKCND1 inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophic changes. Importantly, enhanced expression of LncKCND1 protected the heart from TAC-induced pathological cardiac hypertrophy and improved heart function in TAC mice. Subsequent analyses involving mass spectrometry (MS) and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays showed that LncKCND1 directly binds to YBX1. Further, overexpression of LncKCND1 upregulated the expression level of YBX1 while silencing LncKCND1 had the opposite effect. Furthermore, YBX1 was downregulated during cardiac hypertrophy, whereas overexpression of YBX1 inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Moreover, silencing YBX1 reversed the effect of LncKCND1 on cardiomyocyte mitochondrial function and its protective role in cardiac hypertrophy, suggesting that YBX1 is a downstream target of LncKCND1 in regulating cardiac hypertrophy. In conclusion, our study provides mechanistic insights into the functioning of LncKCND1 and supports LncKCND1 as a potential therapeutic target for pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
Blood-brain-barrier dysfunction and folate and vitamin B12 levels in first-episode psychosis
Authors: Campana Mattia , Löhrs Lisa , Strauß Johanna , Münz Susanne , Oviedo-Salcedo Tatiana , Fernando Piyumi , Maurus Isabel , Raabe Florian , Moussiopoulou Joanna , Eichhorn Peter , Falkai Peter , Hasan Alkomiet , Wagner Elias
Published: July 2022

Background
Vitamin deficiency syndromes and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) dysfunction are frequent phenomena in psychiatric conditions. We analysed the largest available first-episode psychosis (FEP) cohort to date regarding routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood parameters to investigate the association between vitamin deficiencies (vitamin B12 and folate) and BBB impairments in FEP.
Methods
We report a retrospective analysis of clinical data from all inpatients that were admitted to our tertiary care hospital with an ICD-10 diagnosis of a first-episode F2x (schizophrenia-spectrum) between January 1, 2008 and August 1, 2018 and underwent a lumbar puncture and blood-based vitamin status diagnostics within the clinical routine.
Results
222 FEP patients were included in our analyses. We report an increased CSF/serum albumin quotient (Qalb) as a sign of BBB dysfunction in 17.1% (38/222) of patients. White matter lesions (WML) were present in 29.3% of patients (62/212). 17.6% of patients (39/222) showed either decreased vitamin B12 levels or decreased folate levels. No statistically significant association was found between impairments in vitamin levels and an altered Qalb.
Conclusions
This retrospective analysis contributes to the discussion on the impact of vitamin deficiency syndromes in FEP. Although decreased vitamin B12 or folate levels were found in approximately 17% of our cohort, we found no evidence for significant associations between BBB dysfunction and vitamin deficiencies. To strengthen the evidence regarding the clinical implications of vitamin deficiencies in FEP, prospective studies with standardized measurements of vitamin levels together with follow-up measurements and assessment of symptom severity in addition to CSF diagnostics are needed.
Oropharyngeal Swallowing Physiology and Safety in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A consecutive descriptive case series
Authors: Alamer Mrs Amal , Jones Rhys , Drinnan Michael , Simpson Prof. A. John , Griffin Prof. Mike , Patterson Prof. Joanne M , Althuwaybi Abdullah , Ward Prof. Chris , Forrest Ian
Published: July 2022

Introduction:
Dysphagia occurs in multiple respiratory pathophysiologies, increasing the risk of pulmonary complications secondary to aspiration. Reflux associated aspiration and a dysregulated lung microbiome is implicated in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), but swallowing dysfunction has not been described. We aimed to explore oropharyngeal swallowing in IPF patients, without known swallowing dysfunction.
Methods
Fourteen consecutive outpatients with a secure diagnosis of IPF were recruited and the 10-item Eating Assessment Tool (Eat 10) used to assess patient perception of swallowing difficulty. Oropharyngeal swallowing was assessed in ten patients using Videofluoroscopy Swallow Studies (VFSS). The studies were rated using validated scales: Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS); standardised Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP).
Results
EAT-10 scores indicated frank swallowing difficulty in 4/14 patients. Videofluoroscopy Studies showed that 3/10 patients had airway penetration, and one aspirated liquid without a cough response. Median MBSImp for oral impairment was 5, range [3–7] and pharyngeal impairment 4, range [1–14] indicating, overall mild alteration to swallowing physiology.
Conclusion
We conclude that people with IPF can show a range of swallowing dysfunction, including aspiration into an unprotected airway. To our knowledge, this is the first report on swallowing physiology and safety in IPF. We believe a proportion of this group may be at risk of aspiration. Further work is indicated to fully explore swallowing in this vulnerable group.
WITHDRAWN: Importance of lymph node metastasis to the pancreatic head region in patients with ampulla of Vater carcinoma
Authors: Tabuchi Motoyasu , Kimura Jiro , Sui Kenta , Iwata Jun , Noda Yoshihiro , Iiyama Tatsuo , Okabayashi Takehiro
Published: July 2022

Background: We analyzed clinicopathologic variables and postoperative outcomes in patients with ampulla of Vater carcinoma (AVC) to identify key predictors of post-resection prognosis.Methods: Fifty-five patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for AVC with curative intent between 2005 and 2020 were included in this study. A retrospective review of the clinical records of patients who underwent surgical exploration for AVC was performed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Clinical and pathological factors that influenced patient survival were analyzed. Results: One-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates after surgery were 97.4%, 71.8%, and 63.0%, respectively. A total of 21 patients developed recurrent disease after curative resection for AVC. The most frequently observed sites of recurrence were lymph nodes in 11 patients (52%), followed by the liver in 8 (38%), lung in 6 (29%), local in 3 (14%), and peritoneal dissemination in 3 (14%). Estimated 3- and 5-year recurrence free survival rates for the entire cohort were 62.8% and 57.2%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, only the presence of lymph node metastasis extending to the pancreatic head region (hazard ratio = 5.374; 95% confidence interval: 1.279–22.58; P = 0.022) predicted inferior relapse-free survival. A significant correlation between postoperative recurrence and pathological lymph node metastasis was observed. Conclusions: Lymph node metastasis, especially that which extends to the pancreatic head region, was clearly identified as a prognostic indicator of reduced relapse-free survival in patients who have undergone curative surgical treatment for AVC.
Evaluation of alpelisib-induced hyperglycemia prophylaxis and associated risk factors in PIK3CA-mutated hormone-receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor-2 negative advanced breast cancer
Authors: Burnette Sarah , Poehlein Emily , Lee Hui-Jie , Force Jeremy , Westbrook Kelly , Moore Heather N.
Published: July 2022

PurposeSOLAR-1 investigated alpelisib-fulvestrant (ALP+FLV) in patients with HR+/HER2-, PIK3CA-mutated advanced breast cancer and demonstrated a clinically significant increase in all-grade and grade (G) 3-4 hyperglycemia (HG) compared to placebo-fulvestrant. Given high rates of HG, a preventative protocol and identification of associated risk factors was implemented.MethodsThis single-center, retrospective study included patients receiving ALP+FLV. One week before ALP initiation, patients started an insulin-sensitizer. Patients had fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels drawn day 8, 15, 28, then monthly. Primary outcome was incidence of G2-4 HG by day 28. Risk factors assessed included age, BMI, FPG, and hemoglobin A1c. Number of risk factors were compared between patients with and without HG.ResultsSixteen women were included with median age of 59 years. The cohort was 69% White, 25% Black, 75% with BMI > 25kg/m2, and 50% with history of diabetes. By day 28, 9 patients (56%) had G2-4 HG, with only 3 (19%) G3 and zero G4. Patients with G2-4 HG had a median of 2 risk factors compared to only 1 if no HG (p=0.03). 5 patients (31%) required a temporary hold of ALP and 3 (19%) required dose reduction due to HG. 13 patients permanently discontinued ALP – 9 due to disease progression and 4 from an adverse event (only 1 HG).ConclusionImplementation of a HG prophylaxis protocol with ALP in a single-center study demonstrated fewer G3-4 HG events compared to that seen in SOLAR-1 (19% vs 36.6%). An increase in HG-associated risk factors correlated with a higher incidence of G2-4 HG.
Prevalence of C-Shaped Canals in Maxillary and Mandibular Molars: A Retrospective Cone-Beam Computed Tomography study in an Iranian Population
Authors: Akheshteh vahid , Shokri Abbas , Akbarzadeh Mahdi , razaghi parnain
Published: July 2022

Background
This study evaluated the prevalence of first and second maxillary and mandibular molars with C-shaped canal separately according to gender, type and side of teeth and in terms of C-shaped classification in an Iranian sub-population
Methods
In this study, 3233 CBCT scans were obtained by Planmeca Scanner device by exposure time = 12 seconds, voxel size = 0.2mm, voltage of 80 kV and 15 mA. The images were observed by visualization software and the incidence of C-shaped canal was classified by Fan et al. (2004) methods.
Results
In this study the prevalence of C-shaped molars was equal to 4.86%. The incidence of the first and second C-shaped molars was also 2.81% and 5.47%; the incidence of the mandibular first and second C-shaped molars were 4.49% and 8.38%; and this prevalence in maxilla was also 1.47% and 2.32%. Significant differences existed regarding the incidence of C-shaped canal configurations in the first and second molars in total molars (p < 0.001) and mandibular molars (p < 0.004); however, no significant differences were seen regarding C-shaped canal configurations in the first and second maxillary molars .No significant difference was generally observed in the prevalence of C-shaped canals according to side of teeth and between males and females except in the maxilla. Among mandibular molars, C1 and C2 C-shaped configurations were seen more frequently.
Conclusion
Since the racial factors influence the anatomy of teeth, evaluating the prevalence of C-shaped canals in different populations to identify and raise the level of caution in the treatment of this type of root canals become more and more important.
Subacute Toxicity Analyses of Green Synthesized Magnetite Nanoparticles on Lemna minor L. (Duckweed) Plant
Authors: Filizler Buse , Haseki Selin , Ayisigi Melisa , Aktas Lale Yildiz
Published: July 2022

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) are widely used in medicine, environmental technologies and biotechnology and green synthesis of MNPs could be an option to minimize potential environmental pollution by their usage. In this study, subacute toxicity of green synthesized magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticle was evaluated on Lemna minor, a main autotroph in lakes. Laurel (Laurus nobilis) leaf extract was used to synthesize the magnetite nanoparticles. Characterization of the nanoparticles were performed by UV/Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) Zeta size and potential and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis. Nanoparticles were around 108.5 nm, spherical in shape and capped with phyto-content. Subacute toxicity of magnetite nanoparticle was tested according to modified OECD 221 protocol, by treating L. minor plants with different MNPs concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, 100, 1000, 2000 mg L− 1) in petri dishes containing Steinberg medium for 15 days. The MNPs up to 1000 mg L− 1 did not cause any toxic effect on Lemna minor even it promoted growth and development of the plant in the concentrations less than 100 mg L− 1. The number of fronds, colonies and photosynthetic pigment contents significantly decreased by magnetite nanoparticle application of 1000 and 2000 mg L− 1 concentrations. Moreover, in these concentrations the nanoparticle caused oxidative stress indicated by the increased hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anion content and lipid peroxidation level. As a conclusion, this study showed that 1000 mg L− 1 green synthesized MNPs concentration is the starting point of subacute toxicity for L. minor.
LncRNA weighted gene co-expression network analysis reveals novel biomarkers related to prostate cancer metastasis
Authors: Liu Miao , Chen Man-Yun , Huang Jia-Meng , Liu Qian , Wang Lin , Liu Rong , Huang Wei-Hua , Zhang Wei , Yang Nian
Published: July 2022

Background: Most prostate cancer patients die from metastasis and lack accurate efficacious biomarkers to monitor the disease behavior, optimize treatment and assess prognosis. Herein, we aimed to identify meaningful lncRNA biomarkers associated with prostate cancer metastatic progression.Methods: By repurposing microarray probes, 11,624 lncRNAs in prostate cancer were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE46691, N = 545; GSE29079, N = 235; GSE94767, N = 130). Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was applied to determine the co-expression lncRNA network pertinent to metastasis. Hub lncRNAs were screened. RNA-seq and clinical data from the Cancer Genome Atlas prostate cancer (TCGA-PRAD) cohort (N=531) were analyzed. Transwell assay and bioinformatic analysis were performed for mechanism research.Results: The high expression levels of nine hub lncRNAs (FTX, AC005261.1, NORAD, LINC01578, AC004542.2, ZFAS1, EBLN3P, THUMPD3-AS1, GAS5) were significantly associated with Gleason score and increased probability of metastatic progression. Among these lncRNAs, the Kaplan-Meier survival analyses showed higher expression of ZFAS1 was associated with shorter relapse free survival. In-vitro studies confirmed that downregulation of ZFAS1 decreased prostate cancer cell migration.Conclusion: We offered some new insights into discovering lncRNA markers correlated with metastatic progression of prostate cancer using the WGCNA. Some may serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for advanced metastatic prostate cancer.
Boosting the optical limiting properties of helicene-containing arene to the linear analogue
Authors: Xie Zheng , Yu Xiaohui , Li Yunfei , Wang Wei , Yuan Ziwei , Zhou Shuyun , Xiao Jinchong
Published: July 2022

Helicene-containing arene (5) and its linear analogue (8) have been successfully synthesized and characterized, where the single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis indicates that compound 5 can arrange in an offset packing style with a π-π overlap. More interestingly, the introduction of pentagon-rings into the parent skeletons in 5 and 8 can boost their stability, and molecule 5 possesses higher solubility in organic solvent than 8. Correspondingly, such structural difference has significantly influenced the optical limiting performance. Both of them exhibit reverse saturated absorption in solution and in doped gel glass towards 532 nm laser, and compound 5 presents higher optical limiting response than 8. This study can enrich the functionalization of helicene, which can possess a positive effect in terms of nonlinear optical property.
Investigation of filamentous fungi in wild Caatinga biome reptiles: microbiota research
Authors: Graça-Filho Renan Vasconcelos , Rocha Maria Gleiciane , Fonseca Xhaulla Maria Quariguasi Cunha , Teixeira Cínthia Firmo , Brandão Amaurício Lopes Rocha , Paiva Manoel Araújo Neto
Published: July 2022

Characterizing the fungal microbiota of free-living animals such as reptiles is necessary for a better understanding of fungal-host interactions as well as for establishing patterns of infections in these animals, thus creating an information network that helps understand the incidence and the microorganisms involved in this population for better maintenance and conservation of these species. Nonetheless, reports with this approach are limited, especially those focused on filamentous fungi. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and identify filamentous fungi present in the oral cavity microbiota and cloaca of free-living reptiles of the Caatinga biome. Seven lizards, seven snakes, and two amphisbaenians were collected for mycological sampling, totaling 16 species of reptiles. The samples were collected from the oral and cloacal cavity of the animals, with sterile swabs, and sown in Sabouraud agar supplemented with chloramphenicol (0.05 g/L) and maintained for up to 14 days for the fungi isolation. Thus, 77 strains of filamentous fungi present in the microbiota of reptiles such as snakes, lizards, and amphisbaenian were isolated and identified. Among the most frequent fungi are the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Microsporum, respectively. In short, knowledge of fungal diversity present in free-living reptiles of the Caatinga biome is of fundamental importance, since different opportunistic filamentous fungi have been isolated in this study, especially the genus Aspergillus, emphasizing the importance of monitoring these animals, as they can act as carriers and disseminators of potentially pathogenic agents.
Complex dynamics of a predator-prey model with hunting cooperation-induced fear and diffusion
Authors: Qi Haokun , Meng Xinzhu , Zhang Tonghua
Published: July 2022

Hunting cooperation is typical behavior among some large predators that increases the predator's ability to capture prey, and hunting cooperation can induce fear, which reduces the birth rate of prey. Based on this fact, in this paper we propose two predator-prey models with hunting cooperation-induced fear. In the first model, we consider the case without the spatial diffusion of populations: we study the bifurcation of the equilibrium points and their stability. Our study finds that (1) the model admits at most two positive equilibria, and when they exist, the model exhibits bistability structures: either between predator-free equilibrium and periodic solution, or between predator-free equilibrium and unique positive equilibrium. (2) When the model has a unique positive equilibrium, it undergoes the Hopf bifurcation. In addition, we analyze the stability and direction of Hopf bifurcated periodic solution, which shows that low-level fear and high-intensity hunting cooperation can cause Hopf bifurcation. (3) If the two positive equilibria coincide, saddle-node bifurcation and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation of codimension two may occur. Moreover, if the predator population does not hunt cooperatively, the saddle-node bifurcation and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation disappear. Our research findings generalize the existing results. For the model with spatial diffusion, we first pay attention to whether the model has Turing instability, which favors the formation of biodiversity. We find that when the ratio of the diffusion rate of prey to the diffusion rate of predator exceeds a certain critical value, Turing instability occurs. In addition, we present the existence of Hopf bifurcation and discuss the stability, direction, and period of spatially homogeneous and inhomogeneous periodic solutions. That shows that diffusion accelerates the occurrence of Hopf bifurcation, which destabilizes the population in advance and turns the number of the population into a periodic oscillating. At last, the theoretical analysis is illustrated by numerical simulations. The results show that populations can exhibit predator extinction, stable coexistence, or oscillatory coexistence under the influence of hunting cooperation, fear, or diffusion.Mathematics Subject Classification 92B05 · 92D25 · 35K57 · 37G15
Comparison the effects and side effects of Covid-19 vaccination in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); A systematic scoping review
Authors: Tabesh Elham , Soheilipour Maryam , Rezaeisadrabadi Mohammad , Zare-Farashbandi Elahe , Mousavi-Roknabadi Razieh Sadat
Published: July 2022

Covid-19 disease is a pandemic disease that maybe more severe and mortal in people with immunodeficiency, such as those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), who are taking immunosuppressive drugs. On the other hand, no definitive treatment has been identified for it and the best way to control it is wide spread vaccination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits and side effects of different vaccines in patients with IBD. Three Electronic databases [Medline (accessed from PubMed), Scopus, Science Direct, and Cochrane] were searched systematically without time limit, using MESH terms and the related keywords in English language. Considering the titles and abstracts, unrelated studies were excluded. The full texts of the remained studies were evaluated by authors, independently. Then, the studies' findings were assessed and reported. Total of 212 articles were obtained within the first step of searching, and 147 ones remained after removing the duplications. Through the title and abstract screening, 127 were removed. Finally, after reading the full text of the remained articles, 15 ones included in data extraction. All included studied were research study, and most of them (12/15) had prospective design. Totally, 8/15 studies were performed in single-center settings. In 8/15 studies, patients with IBD were compared with a control group. The results were summarized the in two categories: 1) the effect of vaccination, and 2) side effects. The effect of vaccination were assessed in 13/15 studies. Side effects of Covid-19 vaccination in patients with IBD were reported in 7/15 studies. Patients with IBD can be advised that vaccination may have limited minor side effects, but it can protect them from the serious complications of Covid-19 disease and its resulting mortality with a high success rate. They should be also mentioned in booster doses.
Data-based Polymer-Unit Fingerprint (PUFp): A Newly Accessible Expression of Polymer Organic Semiconductors for Machine Learning
Authors: Ye Caichao , Zhang Xinyue , Wei Genwang , Sheng Ye , Yang Jiong , Zhang Wenqing
Published: July 2022

In the process of finding high-performance organic semiconductors (OSCs), it is of paramount importance in material development to identify important functional units that play key roles in material performance and subsequently establish substructure-property relationships. Herein, we describe a polymer-unit fingerprint (PUFp) generation framework. Machine learning (ML) models can be used to determine structure-mobility relationships by using PUFp information as structural input with 678 pieces of collected OSC data, and the prediction accuracy reaches 83.9%. A polymer-unit library consisting of 445 units is constructed, and the key polymer units for the mobility of OSCs are identified. By investigating the combinations of polymer units with mobility performance, a scheme for designing polymer OSC materials by combining ML approaches and PUFp information is proposed to not only passively predict OSC mobility but also actively provide structural guidance for new high-mobility OSC material design. The proposed scheme demonstrates the ability to screen new materials through pre-evaluation and classification ML steps and is an alternative methodology for applying ML in new high-mobility OSC discovery.
Genome-wide association study identifies new loci for 1000-seed weight in Brassica napus L
Authors: Liu Haijiang , Wang Jingchi , Zhang Bingbing , Yang Xinyu , Yuan Pan , Ding Guangda , Wang Sheliang , Cai Hongmei , Wang Chuang , Xu Fangsen , SHI LEI
Published: July 2022

Oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is an important oilseed crop worldwide and 1000-seed weight (SW) is the important determinant of seed yield of B. napus. To elucidate the genetic mechanism of SW and mining candidate genes, a panel of 403 diverse B. napus accessions was screened in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using 1.60 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This study identified 340 SNPs significantly associated with SW by general linear model (GLM) and mixed linear model (MLM). Through GWAS combined with transcriptome data, two significantly differentially expressed genes were identified as candidate genes (BnaA02g06870D and BnaC06g28920D). Candidate gene association analysis and haplotype analysis showed that the inbred lines carrying ACCC at BnaA02g06870Hap1 and TTGG at BnaC06g28920Hap1 had greater SW than lines carrying other haplotype alleles. Candidate genes and favourable haplotypes identified in this study will be useful for large-seed breeding of B. napus.
Some Fixed point theorems for rational contractions in partially ordered metric spaces
Authors: Raji Muhammed , Adegboye Femi
Published: July 2022

In this article, we prove the existence and uniqueness of some fixed point for nonlinear contractive mappings with rational expressions in the context of metric space endowed with partial order. The result generalizes and extends some results in the literature.
Kampo (Japanese herbal) medicine for primary headache as an acute treatment –a retrospective investigation in Kesennuma City Hospital during 5 years-
Authors: Katsuki Masahito , Narita Norio , Matsumori Yasuhiko , Ishida Naoya , Watanabe Ohmi , Siqi Cai , Tominaga Teiji
Published: July 2022

Kampo (Japanese herbal) medicine for primary headaches as an acute treatment has been empirically prescribed, but the evidence is insufficient. Therefore, we retrospectively investigated kampo medicine’s efficacy for primary headaches at 1 week and discussed how kampo medicine works for headaches, referring to previous articles. We prescribed, as needed, kakkonto (TJ-1) for 223 tension-type headaches, goshuyuto (TJ-31) for 93 migraines with or without aura and those with the menopausal disorder, goreisan (TJ-17) for 71 migraines with edema, dehydration (Sui-doku), or associated with weather conditions, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for 162 primary headaches between 2015 and 2019 in Kesennuma City Hospital. As a total, 92.0% of the patients’ subjective symptoms improved after 1 week. The ratio of improvement was not significantly different between each kampo medicine and NSAIDs. The follow-up period is short as 1 week, and it is difficult to judge whether the improvement is due to medication, the placebo effect, or spontaneous remission. However, our results suggested that kampo medicine could be an alternative medication as an acute treatment for primary headaches, and our strategy would be applicable to the clinical practice of primary headaches. (187/250 words)
In silico evaluation of WHO-endorsed molecular methods to detect drug resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Brankin Alice , Seifert Marva , Georghiou Sophia B. , Walker Timothy M. , Uplekar Swapna , Suresh Anita , Colman Rebecca E.
Published: July 2022

Universal drug susceptibility testing (DST) for tuberculosis is a major goal of the END TB strategy. PCR-based molecular diagnostic tests have been instrumental in increasing DST globally and several assays have now been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for use in the diagnosis of drug resistance. These endorsed assays, however, each interrogate a limited number of mutations associated with resistance, potentially limiting their sensitivity compared to sequencing-based methods. We applied an in silico method to compare the sensitivity and specificity of WHO-endorsed molecular based diagnostics to the mutation set identified by the WHO mutations catalogue using phenotypic DST as the reference. We found that, in silico, the mutation sets used by probe-based molecular diagnostic tests to identify rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, amikacin, capreomycin and kanamycin resistance produced similar sensitivities and specificities to the WHO mutation catalogue. PCR-based diagnostic tests were most sensitive for drugs where mechanisms of resistance are well established and localised to small genetic regions or a few prevalent mutations. Approaches using sequencing technologies can provide advantages for drugs where our knowledge of resistance is limited, or where complex resistance signatures exist.
Clinical use of perioperative magnetic resonance imaging-based breast volumetric analysis in final implant volume prediction for two-stage breast reconstruction
Authors: Kim Min Ji , Kim Tae Wook , Hahn Hyung Min , Lee Il Jae
Published: July 2022

Background: Breast volume is an important factor in breast reconstruction; however, the reconstruction surgeon is expected to deliver the best volume expectation with his aesthetic inspiration. Therefore, objective volumetry must be continuously developed to achieve this. This study aimed to conduct a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) based breast volumetric analysis. With periodic analysis of two-stage breast reconstruction in breast cancer patients, we suggest the possibility of clinical use of breast volumetry in final implant volume prediction.Methods:This retrospective study included 140 patients who underwent unilateral two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction (tissue expander followed by permanent implant insertion) between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. The MRI image was converted into a 3-D image with a reconstruction program (A-VIEWⓇ, Coreline Soft, Seoul, Korea). An MRI image was obtained before the breast cancer surgery and then regularly at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months intervals postoperatively. The volume of the breast landmark was confirmed and automatically converted to cubic centimeters using artificial intelligence (AI). Results: In total, 140 patients were evaluated. Maximized breast volume and volume differences were noted and compared with the preoperative volume at 1 month, and minimized volume was noted at 1 year for the cancer-involved side. The correlation between MRI-based preoperative breast volumetry and the mastectomy specimen volume was 0.611. Analysis of the volume difference between the MRI-based preoperative state and the real implant volume showed a minimal difference at 1 year postoperatively. The final implant size prediction formula was calculated using the 1-year postoperative volume (p<0.001, R2=0.594). All values were statistically significant. Conclusions: To avoid breast reconstruction based solely on the surgeon’s subjective assessment, MRI-based breast volumetry could be a useful method to develop more scientific and objective breast reconstruction planning. We suggest a volume prediction formula that describes the relationship between the postoperative breast volume and the final breast implant size.
A Highly Sensitive and Selective Fluorescent Probe for the Detection of Cerium(III) using Tridentate Based-Oxazolidine: Experimental and DFT Investigations
Authors: Promkatkaew Malinee , Chuaitammakit Laksamee Chaicharoenwimolkul , Naree Kitiya , Sillapa Jinnapus , Kongsriprapan Sopanat
Published: July 2022

A new fluorescent sensor based on oxazolidine derivative, (2-(pyridin-2-yl)oxazolidine-4,4-diyl)dimethanol; TN), was designed and synthesized successfully in high yield (82%) under Schiff base reaction. The structural elucidation of the sensor has been confirmed by spectroscopic techniques (IR, NMR, and HRMS-ESI-TOF). The designed TN sensor exhibited high sensitivity and selectivity towards an aqueous solution of cerium(III) over various metal ions under biologically relevant conditions (100.0 mM HEPES buffer pH 7.4). The limit of detection (LOD) was reported as 54.0 nM. The geometry of tridentate based-oxazolidine (TN) and its coordination of cerium(III) (TN-Ce3+) was proven by using the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The HOMO-LUMO energy gap was decreased when TN-Ce3+ is formed. The results indicated that TN can be used as a fluorescent probe for high sensitivity and selectivity detection of cerium(III) ions.
Environmental Data Mining to Determine Coral Bleaching Severities
Authors: Halide Lidemar , Andika  , Marhaeni A. , Sulva M. , Akhir N. Y. , Syafrizal M. , Halide Halmar
Published: July 2022

Coral bleaching events could be viewed as a resultant of complex interactions involving various environmental factors. Just recently, a TEL (seawater Temperature-ENSO-Longitude) model is developed to predict the global bleaching events during the single 2016 El Niño episode. The model has a modest skill of approximately 50% predictability. In an attempt to improve coral bleaching prediction skill, here, two models are developed: an extended TEL model and a statistical model that combines multivariate and supervised classification techniques. The skills of both models are assessed in predicting bleaching events from three coral regions during several El Niño episodes. Two important findings are found. First, it is revealed that seawater salinity, ENSO, and Madden Julian Oscillation have stronger effect than seawater temperature in coral bleaching events. This has an important consequence to the fate of coral ecology when these phenomena are also subjected to change under global warming. Second, the predictability of our developed is 74% which is higher than that of the TEL model. Our model could serve as a tool for reef managers on communicating bleaching risk earlier. It could also be used for monitoring and reservation plans to mitigate the detrimental effect of various environmental stressors on corals.
Blood flow restriction accelerates aerobic training-induced adaptation of VO2 kinetics at the onset of moderate-intensity exercise
Authors: Hori Amane , Saito Ryuji , Suijo Kenichi , Kushnick Michael R , Hasegawa Daisuke , Ishida Koji , Hotta Norio
Published: July 2022

It is unclear whether blood flow restriction (BFR) accelerates the adaptation of the time constant (τ) of phase II oxygen uptake (VO2) kinetics in the moderate-intensity exercise domain via moderate-intensity aerobic training. Therefore, healthy participants underwent moderate-intensity [45–60% VO2 Reserve] aerobic cycle training with or without BFR (BFR group, n = 9; CON group, n = 9) for 8 weeks to evaluate VO2 kinetics during moderate-intensity cycle exercise before (Pre) and after 4 (Mid) and 8 (Post) weeks of training. Both groups trained for 30 min, 3 days weekly. BFR was performed for 5 min every 10 min by applying cuffs to the upper thighs. The τ significantly decreased by Mid in the BFR group (23.7 ± 2.9 s [Pre], 15.3 ± 1.8 s [Mid], 15.5 ± 1.4 s [Post], P < 0.01) and by Post in the CON group (27.5 ± 2.0 s [Pre], 22.1 ± 0.7 s [Mid], 18.5 ± 1.9 s [Post], P < 0.01). Notably, the BFR group’s τ was significantly lower than that of the CON group at Mid (P < 0.01) but not at Post. In conclusion, BFR accelerates the adaptation of VO2 kinetics at the onset of exercise by moderate-intensity aerobic training.
Laparoscopic left hemicolectomy of descending colon carcinoma with superior rectal artery （SRA）preservation and natural orifice specimen extraction （NOSE）:a standard operation procedure----with a video
Authors: Ke Zhang , Zijian Deng , Hai Hu , Jin Yan , Yuanyi Rui , Bo Yi , Yangchun Zheng
Published: July 2022

Background: Laparoscopic-assisted radical resection of colorectal cancer and Natural orifice specimen extraction surgery（NOSES）are widely used around the world. However, due to the low incidence of descending colon cancer, there are still some problems in the application of laparoscopic and NOSES techniques in left hemicolectomy, such as surgical route, blood vessel preservation, dissociation of splenic flexure, specimen pulling out, and intracorporeal anastomosis. Herein, we introduce the technical procedure of laparoscopic left hemicolectomy with Superior rectal artery （SRA）preservation and NOSE. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 39 patients who underwent laparoscopic left hemicolectomy with SRA preservation and NOSE in the Gastrointestinal Surgery Center of Sichuan Cancer Hospital from November 2017 to May 2021. General information about the patients, preoperative data and short-term postoperative results were analyzed. Results: All operations were completed smoothly, with an average operation duration of 227.17 ± 65.51 min , intraoperative bleeding of 91.05 ± 66.71 ml, first time off bed of 11.97±2.15 h, first time to anus exhaust of 20.20 ± 10.08 h, first time to liquid diet of 2.48±0.72 days,and average postoperative stay of 7.66 ± 1.89 days. Two patients developed temporary intestinal obstruction, and one patient developed pulmonary infection. One patient developed chyle fistulay.One patient developed intestinal infection. All of them recovered well after active supportive treatment, and were discharged successfully. Conclusion:Laparoscopic left hemicolectomy with SRA preservation and NOSE is safe and feasible, with satisfactory short-term results, and is worthy of further clinical investigation.
Effect of Higher vs Standard Dosage of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Bone Strength and bone metabolism in child with chronic kidney disease
Authors: feng zhiqiang , Lu Kunna , ma yan , liu feng , Zhang Xinhuan , Fu Yan
Published: July 2022

We investigated the effects of high VS. standard dose of vitamin D supplementation on kidney function and bone metabolism in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In all, 75 participants receive 2000 IU/D of vitamin D oral supplementation vs 75 participants who were randomized to receive 400 IU/d for a minimum of 4 months. We investigated the effects of vitamin D supplementation on kidney-related indicators and bone metabolism-related indicators at different doses. A total of 158 participants were screened and 150 met inclusion criteria. The indicators of chronic kidney disease, such as eGFR and serum uric acid, was negatively correlated with 25(OH)D levels and BMD. Serum 25(OH)D level and osteocalcin were positively correlated with spine BMD. The standard dose of vitamin D can improve serum uric acid levels, but high doses of vitamin D supplementation had no significant effect on serum uric acid. The high doses of vitamin D supplementation also improve alkaline phosphatase levels. When comparing the results of different doses of vitamin D supplementation, it was found that high-dose vitamin D supplementation did not improve bone density in the spine and femur neck relative to the standard dose of vitamin D, but improved low calciumemia and PINP levels. Among the children with clinical kidney disease, treatment with Vitamin D for 4 months at high dose, compare with standard dose of Vitamin D treatment, resulted in statistically significantly improve kidney function but no significantly different in bone metabolism.
980nm diode laser treatment for non-muscle-invasive bladder tumor with En bloc technique：single center experience
Authors: Mao Tianci , Zhang Hongyi , Cui Jie , Zhao Zhiguang , Jiao Dian , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2022

Background Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TURBT) is one of the most established urological procedures for the treatment of the primary non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 980nm diode laser as a treatment for primary NMIBC.Methods 88 patients with NMIBC were treated by en bloc transurethral resection with 980nm diode laser, and 76 patients were treated by plasmakinetic transurethral resection From May 2016 to July 2019 at the Department of Urology, Tangdu Hospital, Air force Medical University. The clinical data were collected and compared between the two groups.Results The bladder irrigation time was shortened in 980nm diode laser group compared to that of plasmakinetic transurethral resection group (4.1±0.6 vs 13.1±3.1 h, p<0.001). 13.2% (10/76) patients experienced obturator nerve reflex, and 5.3% (4/76) experienced delayed bleeding in plasmakinetic transurethral resection group, while no obturator nerve reflex and delayed bleeding cases were observed in 980nm diode laser group (p < 0.05). The postoperative catheterization and hospitalization time showed no significant difference between the two groups. The median follow-up time was 27 months (13-38 months). No significant difference in the recurrence rate was observed between the two groups.Conclusions 980nm diode laser is an effective and safe tool in transurethral resection of NMIBC using En bloc technique. It has less perioperative complications and shortened bladder irrigation time.
WITHDRAWN: Species distribution based on ENM of a critically endangered tree species - Madhuca insignis
Authors: Karpakal Souravi , PE Rajasekharan , NARAYANAN VIJAYANAND
Published: July 2022

Our study assessed the potential distribution of Madhuca insignis in India by employing modeling through identified bioclimatic variables (present and future) and documented distribution data. The MaxEnt software was utilized to simulate the current distribution of M. insignis and project the range shift in future climatic scenarios. The future climate data was downscaled using the delta method to 30 arc seconds (1000m) used to predict the suitable habitat M. insignis starting from 2020 to 2080 with 20-year intervals using two different general circulation models (GCM). Habitat assessment of the species shows the average and sporadic distribution within the study area. The model works well with fragmented sample sites of occurrence data and environmental variables, both continuous and categorical. ENM of critically endangered species like M. insignis helps plan land use management around the existing natural populations, identify top-priority hotspot regions, and identify newer populations and suitable niches.
Comparative studies of yoghurt produced from animal and selected imitation vegetable milk
Authors: Arise Abimbola Kemisola , Malomo Sunday Abiodun , Obuo Jacob , Adesanya Omotola F , Esan Olukorede Taiwo
Published: July 2022

In this study, the possibility of producing yoghurt from both plant and animal sources was explored. Hence, a comparative study was carried out on the yoghurt samples that were produced from cow milk (CM), oat flakes (OM) and African yam beans (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) (AYB). The physicochemical and organoleptic properties as well as the microbial stability of the yoghurt samples were analyzed using standard methods. The proximate compositions (moisture, fat, protein, fibre, ash and carbohydrate) of the samples were 85.50-86.45, 0.25–2.95, 5.42–6.10, 0.09–1.18, 0.94 − 0.88 and 3.56–7.43%, respectively while their total solids ranged between 13.55 and 14.50 for the three yoghurt samples CM, OM and AYB, respectively. The proximate results showed that all the chemical compositions, except their ash content, significantly (p < 0.05) differed in all the three samples. The ranges of the total viable bacteria count of the sample CM, OM and AYB were 1.58-3.0×109, 1.95-4.0×108 and 5.50–1.1×109 cfu/ml during the 14 days of refrigeration storage, respectively. A decrease in the count was noticed on the third day thereby leading to the deterioration of the yoghurt samples and reduction in the nutritional composition with storage. The sensory evaluation results showed no significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in the aroma, taste and overall acceptability of the three yoghurt samples. This work has shown the potential of vegetable milk as an alternative source of milk in the manufacture of yoghurt with improved nutritional values and consumers acceptability.