bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the saline tolerance of gamma-ray-induced mutant lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under field conditions
Authors: Bagheri Leila , Saadatmand Sara , Soltani Neda , Niknam Vahid
Published: July 2022

Rice is highly sensitive crop to salt stress, especially at reproductive stage, and obtaining salt-tolerant genotypes is key for the rice production in salt-affected soils. In this study, ten mutant lines (obtained through gamma ray and pre-selected for their tolerance to salinity) accompanying by three Iranian traditional rice varieties (TRVs) were evaluated for biochemical and morpho-physiological parameters related to salt tolerance under saline field condition. The experiment was conducted as a randomized complete block design with three replications during two growing seasons. The salt tolerant mutant lines exhibited higher proline accumulation, K+ concentration, and activities of antioxidant enzymes, and lower Na+ concentration, Na+/K+ ratio, malondyaldehide (MDA) content that led to higher grain yield and quality under saline field condition, as compared with TRVs. Higher yield in these tolerant mutants was associated with more number panicle per hill, number filled grain per panicle, and 1000-grain weights. Results of correlation as well as principle component analysis also indicated that grain yield had high correlated with proline content, Fv/Fm index, stomata conductivity, SOD activity, MDA content, concentration of sodium (Na+) and Na+/K+ ratio at the reproductive stage under saline field condition, indicating that indirect selection according to these physiological criteria would be more effective approach for screening salt tolerance. According to these results, mutant lines 13 − 3, 32 − 18 and 22 − 1 indicated superiority in the grain yield and agronomical traits such as early- maturity and dwarfism, and also desirable grain quality that are promising mutant lines for cultivation in salt-affected coastal areas.
Diagnosis of depth of submucosal invasion in colorectal cancer with AI using deep learning
Authors: Minami Soichiro , Saso Kazuhiro , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Fujino Shiki , Kato Shinya , Sekido Yuki , Hata Tsuyoshi , Ogino Takayuki , Takahashi Hidekazu , Uemura Mamoru , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi
Published: July 2022

The submucosal invasion depth predicts prognosis in early colorectal cancer. Although colorectal cancer with shallow submucosal invasion can be cured via endoscopic resection, colorectal cancer with deep submucosal invasion requires surgical colectomy. However, accurately diagnosing the depth of submucosal invasion via endoscopy is difficult. We developed a tool to diagnose the depth of submucosal invasion in early colorectal cancer using artificial intelligence. We reviewed data from 140 patients who had undergone preoperative colonoscopy at the Osaka University Hospital between 2011 and 2017 and were diagnosed pathologically as having shallow submucosal invasion or deep submucosal invasion colorectal cancer. A convolutional neural network for predicting invasion depth was constructed using 706 images from 96 patients between 2011 and 2015 as the training dataset, and the diagnostic accuracy of the constructed convolutional neural network was evaluated using 394 images from 49 patients between 2016 and 2017 as the validation dataset. We also prospectively tested the tool on 50 images from 10 patients with suspected early-stage colorectal cancer. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve of the convolutional neural network for diagnosing deep submucosal invasion colorectal cancer were 87.2% (258/296), 35.7% (35/98), 74.4% (293/394), and 0.758, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy in clinical practice was 74% (37/50). The diagnostic accuracy of the constructed convolutional neural network was as high as that of a skilled endoscopist. Endoscopic image recognition by deep learning may be able to predict the submucosal invasion depth in early-stage colorectal cancer in clinical practice.
Transcriptome analysis and prediction of the metabolic state of stress-induced viable but non-culturable Bacillus subtilis cells
Authors: Morawska Luiza P. , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: July 2022

Many bacteria adapt their physiology and enter the viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state to survive prolonged exposure to adverse environmental conditions. The VBNC cells maintain active metabolism, membrane integrity and gene transcription. However, they lose the ability to form colonies on a conventional culture media. Thus, standard colony counting methods cannot detect these alive but dormant cells. The Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis was found to enter the VBNC state when pre-exposed to osmotic stress and treated with a lethal dose of kanamycin. These cells reduced their metabolic activity, ceased growth and division and became kanamycin-tolerant. Interestingly, despite active metabolism, the majority of the kanamycin tolerant cells could not be revived on LB agar. In this study, we use a robust RNA-Seq technique to elucidate the differences in transcriptional profiles of B. subtilis VBNC cells. A comparative analysis of differently expressed genes and operons performed in this study indicates high similarities in transcriptional responses of VBNC and kanamycin-sensitive cells to antibiotic treatment. Moreover, this work reveals that VBNC cells strongly upregulate genes involved in proline uptake and catabolism, suggesting a putative role of proline as nutrient in VBNC cells.
Reimagining climate networking between cities: clustering cities based on a large dataset of mitigation actions
Authors: mokhles Sombol , Davidson Kathryn , Acuto Michele
Published: July 2022

The existing networking dynamics in climate city networks are hierarchical as a few global cities are viewed as the leaders to be followed by other cities due to their higher visibility. Achieving ambitious climate goals requires expanding the knowledge of a diverse range of cities and networking opportunities. To expand knowledge of diverse cities, we provide evidence of cities’ similarity patterns based on their mitigation actions by a large-scale clustering method. Applying K-means clustering to Carbon Disclosure Project’s mitigation data, we find five clusters of cities based on two measures. Nature of actions indicates cities’ similarity based on their actions’ sectoral combinations, and finance profile indicates the commonality of their actions’ financial arrangements. Using these measures, we present a novel way to render socio-spatially diverse cities similar. Intersecting these two measures in a matrix, we offer ways to reimagine networking between cities and illuminate the complexity of cities’ climate actions.
Environmentally relevant perinatal exposure to DBP accelerated spermatogenesis by promoting the glycolipid metabolism of Sertoli cells in male mice
Authors: Ma Tan , Xia Yunhui , Wang Bo , Yang Fenglian , Ding Jie , Wu Jiang , Han Xiaodong , Wang Junli , Li Dongmei
Published: July 2022

Since Sertoli cells (SCs) play an important role in providing energy for spermatogenesis, the present study was aimed to investigate the effects of maternal exposure to plasticizer Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on onset of spermatogenesis in male offspring through metabolism pathway as well as the underlying molecular mechanism. By detecting the level of the glucose metabolism in SCs, we found that monobutyl phthalate (MBP, the active metabolite of DBP) promoted cellular glycolysis accompanied by GLUT1, GLUT3, LDHA and MCT4 upregulated, leading to increased lactate which was provided spermatogenesis as energy substrate. Further mechanism research revealed that DBP/MBP increased fatty acid uptake and ATP production by promoting the expression of CD36, so as to accelerate their own maturity. Therefore, our findings provided new perspective at glycolipid metabolism to explain prenatal DBP exposure leading to earlier onset of spermatogenesis in male offspring mice.
An Analysis of Steel Roof Panels' Resistance to Out of Plane Hail Impacts
Authors: Uz Mehmet E.
Published: July 2022

Metal roof panels are often used on residential and commercial buildings. Steel panels subjected to hailstone impact are not sufficiently studied for their dent resistance. A finite element model (FEM) was used to analyze the entire experimental setup. For comparison with natural hailstones that remained intact after impact, artificial hailstones were launched onto different steel sheets based on their sizes and at different terminal velocities. The simulation approach and material properties are evaluated by comparing experimental results with the FE model. In addition, an equation for predicting dent depth using kinetic energy and stress is presented. The results of this study provide a better understanding of both hail and roof panel failure modes as well as their effect on dent resistance. In this study, the results of observations and numerical simulations were well matched with those of analytical models. As a result, the proposed equation overestimates dent depths compared with the ones determined by finite element models, whereas the ones found in the steel sheets are underestimated.
Pseudopotential-based discrete unified gas kinetic scheme for modeling multiphase fluid flows
Authors: Yang Zeren , Liu Sha , Zhuo Congshan , Zhong Chengwen
Published: July 2022

By coupling the pseudopotential model into the discrete unified gas kinetic scheme (DUGKS), we develop a concise kinetic approach for modeling multiphase fluid flows at the mesoscopic level. To eliminate the influences of non-isotropic terms introduced during the reconstruction process, the expression of equilibrium distribution functions is reformulated in a moment-based form. With the isotropy-preserving parameter appropriately tuned, the non-isotropic effects can be perfectly canceled out. The proposed pseudopotential-based DUGKS managed to produce and maintain isotropic interfaces. The fundamental capabilities are validated by the flat interface test and the quiescent droplet test. The isotropy-preserving property of pseudopotential-based DUGKS in transient conditions is further confirmed by the spinodal decomposition. Stability superiority of the pseudopotential-based DUGKS over the lattice Boltzmann method is also demonstrated by predicting the coexistence densities complying with the van der Waals equation of state.
The importance of validated questionnaire by parents, preschool and child psychologist in preschool children with ESSENCE symptoms: A comparative study
Authors: Gustafsson Berit M , Levander Märta Sund
Published: July 2022

Background
It is important to detect children with Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examinations (ESSENCE) in order to implement early intervention and support for the child and family. Standardized instruments for assessment of behaviour problems, engagement and psychosocial health are needed to obtain an objective picture of the preschool child's mental health.
Aim
To explore and compare parents', preschool teachers' and child health care psychologists' assessment of behaviour, everyday function, engagement, social interaction and psychosocial health in children with ESSENCE symptoms.
Method
Parents of 152 children (114 boys and 38 girls, 4.5 ± 1 years) with ESSENCE symptoms, 155 preschool teachers and 8 child psychologists participated. Parents and preschool teachers assessed externalizing and internalizing behavioural problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), including the SDQ supplement for assessing everyday function. Preschool teachers also assessed engagement and social interaction using the Children's Engagement Questionnaire (CEQ), and the child psychologists assessed psychosocial health with the Child Psychosocial Health Assessment (LillaLAPS).
Results
Parents', preschool teachers' and child psychologists' assessment of the child's mental health largely agreed. Both parents and preschool teachers see a strength in the child's social abilities. Parents especially see challenges with behaviour and function in daily life. Preschool teachers consider behavioural problems, hyperactivity, conduct problems, peer problems and function in daily life as a greater challenge compared with the parents' assessment.
Conclusion
Combining assessment with SDQ, SDQ supplement, CEQ and LillaLAPS seems promising in detecting preschool children with ESSENCE symptoms early on. However, it is important to consider different contexts to obtain an overall evaluation of the child's need for support in everyday life.
Fluorescence resonance energy transfer biosensor based on Nitrogen doped carbon quantum dots and hairpin probe to sensitively detect aflatoxin biosynthesis-related genes aflD in rice
Authors: Yu Tao , Peng Shuangfeng , Sun Qingyue , Kong Dezhao , Liu Chang , Shi Qiaoqiao , Li Yaqi , Chen Yong
Published: July 2022

The expression of aflD gene plays a significant role in the biosynthesis of aflatoxin, aflD structural genes can be served as a good biomarker of aflatoxigenic strains. The detection of the aflD gene is a promising method to control the further spread of aflatoxins. In this research, a rapid fluorescence biosensor targeting aflatoxigenic biosynthesis-related genes aflD was developed based on nitrogen – doped carbon quantum dots (NCQDs) and AuNPs as fluorescence donors and quenchers respectively. This sensor was fabricated by immobilization of NCQDs and AuNPs on the two ends of hairpin DNA. In the absence of the aflD gene, NCQDs were closed to AuNPs to trigger the fluorescence resonance energy transfer leading to a quenching and showed the fluorescent signal “off”. In the presence of the aflD gene, NCQDs and AuNPs were separated by the target aflD gene complementary matching with the loop of the hairpin structure, which caused to the recovery of fluorescence signal and performance the fluorescent signal “on”. It was shown that the biosensor provided an excellent limit of detection (LOD) of 1.95 nM (3σ/k) with a liner range of 10–150 nM. Besides, this biosensor performed the satisfied selectivity through the comparison between aflD gene and mismatched DNA sequences. The feasibility of this biosensor was examined in rice contaminated by Aspergillus flavus. Therefore, it could potentially be used as a feasible tool for preventing aflatoxin in grain and its products.
Prediction of distant metastasis in esophageal cancer using a radiomics-clinical model
Authors: Zhu Chao , Mu Fengchun , Wang Songping , Qiu Qingtao , Wang Shuai , Wang Linlin
Published: July 2022

Background
Distant metastasis, which occurs at a rate of 25% in patients with esophageal cancer (EC), has a poor prognosis, with previous studies reporting an overall survival of only 3–10 months. However, few studies have been conducted to predict distant metastasis in EC, owing to a dearth of reliable biomarkers. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an accurate model for predicting distant metastasis in patients with EC.
Methods
A total of 299 EC patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to a training cohort (n = 207) and a validation cohort (n = 92). Logistic univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify clinical independent predictors and create a clinical nomogram. Radiomic features were extracted from contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images taken prior to treatment, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) regression was used to screen the associated features, which were then used to develop a radiomic signature. Based on the screened features, four machine learning algorithms were used to build radiomics models. The joint nomogram with radiomic signature and clinically independent risk factors was developed using the logical regression algorithm. All models were validated and compared by discrimination, calibration, reclassification, and clinical benefit.
Results
Multivariable analyses revealed that age, N stage, and degree of pathological differentiation were independent predictors of distant metastasis, and a clinical nomogram incorporating these factors was established. A radiomic signature was developped by a set of sixteen features chosen from 851 radiomic features. The joint nomogram incorporating clinical factors and radiomic signature performed better [AUC(95% CI): 0.827(0.742–0.912)] than the clinical nomogram [AUC(95% CI): 0.731(0.626–0.836)] and radiomics predictive models [AUC(95% CI): 0.754(0.652–0.855), LR algorithms]. Caliberation and decision curve analyses revealed that the radiomics-clinical nomogram outperformed the other models. In comparison to the clinical nomogram, the joint nomogram's NRI was 0.114 (95% CI: 0.075–0.345), and its IDI was 0.071 (95% CI: 0.030–0.112), P = 0.001.
Conclusion
We developed and validated the first radiomics-clinical nomogram for distant metastasis in EC which may aid clinicians in identifying patients at high risk of distant metastasis.
Do the different menstrual cycle phases influence CrossFit® performance?
Authors: Sacon Hiohana Rilary Moraes , Peserico Cecília Segabinazi , Machado Fabiana Andrade
Published: July 2022

Aim- The aim of this study was to verify the effects of the menstrual cycle (MC) phases on CrossFit®️ performance during three benchmark workouts: CrossFit Total, Jerry, and Fran in the three MC phases: Follicular (FP), Ovulatory (OP), and Luteal (LP). Methods: Eight physically active women (26.2±1.9 years; 56.3±1.6 kg; 159.0±0.0 cm; 29.5±4.9% of fat) took place in this pilot study. All the participants were evaluated in the CrossFit Total, Jerry, and Fran workouts in the three MC phases: Follicular (FP), Ovulatory (OP), and Luteal (LP). Results: There were significant differences between the MC phases for the CrossFit Total (FP= 188.8 ± 26.4 kg; OP= 194.2 ± 25.6 kg; LP= 202.9 ± 27.2 kg), Fran (FP= 9.1 ± 1.6 min; OP= 8.4 ± 1.0 min; LP= 7.2 ± 0.8 min), sources of stress (FP= 2.6 ± 1.2; OP= 0.7 ± 0.7; LP= 1.0 ± 0.5), and symptoms of stress (FP= 9.5 ± 3.0; OP= 4.4 ± 1.1; LP= 3.1 ± 1.8); there was no significant difference for Jerry performances between MC phases. Conclusion: In conclusion, the MC phases changed the performances of CrossFit Total and Fran workouts, with better results in the LP compared to OP and FP.
*OBSERVATION: This abstract not appears in your manuscript file because the article is a short communication and the instructions for authors for this type of article ask that you do not have an abstract in the main document.
Defects Detection inside the Rail Head by Ultrasonic Guided Waves
Authors: Xie Jingsong , Ding Wenxiang , Zou Wen , Wang Tiantian , Yang Jinsong
Published: July 2022

Early detection of defects inside the rail is of great significance to ensure the safety of rail transit. This work investigates the ability of ultrasonic guided waves (UGWs) to detect internal defects of the rail head. First, the model of UGWs propagation in rail, which has an irregular cross-section, is constructed based on semi-analytical finite element (SAFE). Fundamental characteristics such as wavenumber, phase or group velocity, and wave structure inside the rail are then calculated. Following modal and vibration energy distribution analysis, a guided wave mode sensitive to transverse fissure (TF) defects is selected and its excitation method is proposed. The effectiveness of the excitation method is confirmed by simulations performed in the ABAQUS software. According to the simulation data, the dispersion curve calculated by using the two-dimensional Fourier Fast Transform (2D-FFT) coincides well with that of SAFE. After that, the sensitivity of the selected mode to rail internal defect have been validated and its ability to locate defects has also been demonstrated. Finally, the effect of excitation frequency, defect size, defect vertical and horizontal depth on the reflection waveforms is investigated.
Shifting from traditional to alternative diets may increase the exposure to mycotoxins: a risk-benefit assessment for soy-based meat alternatives
Authors: Mihalache Octavian Augustin , Dellafiora Luca , Dall’Asta Chiara
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to use a risk-benefit assessment (RBA) of replacing meat with plant-based analogues with respect to mycotoxin exposure, as a proof of concept to demonstrate the need for a proper regulatory framework for mycotoxins in meat imitates. Hence, we considered a full replacement of meat consumption with soy-based products, based on the Italian National Food Consumption Survey INRAN-SCAI 2005-06. The overall health impact from soy-based food consumption was quantified in terms of Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) in three different consumption scenarios. The substitution of meat products with soy-based imitates would lead to an increased risk of liver cancer and loss of healthy life-years due to AFB1 exposure and also potential risk of renal cancer as due to an increased intake of OTA, leading up to 1,208 extra cancer cases associated with the loss of 12,080 healthy life-years/country, largely overweighting the associated benefit. Taking into account the ubiquitous occurrence of mycotoxins, also in the light of climate change, and the growing trend towards plant-based meat analogues, greater importance should be given to actual food consumption trends and correlated with updated natural toxins regulations and risk assessments.
Systematic molecular analyses reveal extremely long and complex 5'UTR of a major cold shock protein CsdA in Escherichia coli
Authors: Jana Soma , Datta Partha Pratim
Published: July 2022

Cold-shock DEAD-box protein A (CsdA) is a DEAD-box RNA helicase in E. coli. The deaD gene encodes this CsdA protein in E. coli. It is a major cold shock protein and it plays essential roles during cold shock adaption in E. coli. CsdA homolog of E. coli is present in bacteria, archaea and eukaryotes. This major cold-shock protein has been studied at the protein level, but its mechanism of gene regulation needs further study. In this regard, we have constructed a promoter-less plasmid vector with the ORF of a GFP reporter and performed incremental zone-wise DNA scanning from the immediate upstream region of the deaD gene coding region. Interestingly, we found the promoter region about 800 nucleotides upstream of its coding region. Furthermore, the drastic decrease in CsdA protein level due to the in vivo deletion of this promoter region from the E. coli chromosome has confirmed this promoter’s existence. Interestingly, we have found this promoter region i.e., -10 region and -35 region is conserved in numbers of gammaproteobacteria. In conclusion, our study established deaD gene contains an unusually long 5'UTR of about 800 nucleotides in E. coli which is exceptional in bacteria.
Efficacy and safety of colchicine in patients with acute coronary syndrome: A meta-analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Yan Guang-dong , Wu Fan , Li Biao , Chen Xi-wei , Yang Hui , Yang Jing-yong
Published: July 2022

Colchicine has an obvious anti-inflammatory effect. The occurrence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is accompanied by a series of inflammatory reactions. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of colchicine in patients with ACS. Randomized controlled studies (RCTS) about the effects of colchicine on the treatment of patients with ACS were identified by searching databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan5.3 statistical software. Eight RCTs with 6730 patients were included in the meta-analysis, involving 3362 patients in the colchicine group and 3368 patients in the control group. Compared with the control group, the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) [OR 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57–0.83], recurrence of ACS (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.56-0.91), revascularization (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29-0.70), and stroke (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.17-0.75) were reduced in the colchicine group, but there were no significant differences in cardiac death, all-cause mortality, or gastrointestinal symptoms. In conclusion, Colchicine can be used as a new effective and safe medicine for the treatment of ACS, which can effectively reduce the occurrence of MACE, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular ischemic events, and revascularization without increasing the adverse reactions. The results is expected to be further verified by increasing the clinical sample size in the future.
Analysis of drug-resistant phenotype, drug resistance mechanism, and molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in Dongguan, China
Authors: Guo Zhusheng , Lv Fei , Xie Shujin , Huang Ya , Lin Sisi , Xu Baohua , Feng Jianbo , Feng Sen , He Fen , Zhou Mouqing , Gong Chengfang
Published: July 2022

In China, the genetic environment of KPC-2 in Zhejiang and Taiwan is type B1, while Dongguan seems to be different. A total of 131 Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) strains were detected from the inpatients of 13 hospitals in Dongguan from January 2016 to December 2018, including 79 Klebsiella pneumoniae (60.31%), 21 Escherichia coli (16.03%), and 12 Enterobacter cloacae (9.16%). Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was the main clinical department with detectable CRE isolates. Sputum, urine, and wound secretion were the top three samples with detectable CRE. Results of drug resistance assessment revealed high drug resistance of CRE to clinical common antibacterial agents but low drug resistance to amikacin only. Additionally, KPC-2 (57 strains, 54.81%), NDM-1 (7 strains, 6.73%), and NDM-5 (2 strains, 1.92%) carbapenemases were detected in 104 CRE strains (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Enterobacter cloacae). ST11-type (49 strains, 62.03%) was the main detectable MLST in 79 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) strains, followed by ST1-type (25 strains, 31.65%). The porins (ompK35, ompK36, and ompK37) showed high proportions of mutations (94%, 97.47%, and 100%, respectively). The dominant genetic environment of the blaKPC-2 gene was B1-type mutant (38 strains, 48.10%), followed by A-type mutant (14 strains, 17.72%). A large number of clinical CRE isolates in Dongguan exhibited strong drug resistance. Among them, ST11-type was the most prevalent in CRKP, most of which harbored KPC-2-type carbapenemase, indicating that the genetic environment of the blaKPC-2 gene is B1-type mutant and the blaKPC-2 is mainly spread through plasmids. Moreover, the proportion of the porins mutations was extremely high. In general, the prevalence of CRKP in Dongguan is different from that in other area.
Real-World Study of HIV Patients Starting Antiretroviral Treatment With Boosted Protease Inhibitors in the Integrase Inhibitors Era
Authors: Pardo Ana Arancón , Salillas Carmen Mateos , Jiménez-Nácher Inmaculada , García Juan González , Ambrosio Alicia Herrero
Published: July 2022

Background
Boosted-protease inhibitors (b-PIs) are not recommended for initial therapy in HIV patients, but there is still a cohort of patients who could benefit from this antiretroviral treatment (ART). The purpose of this study was to analyze the profile of HIV patients who receive for the first time an ART containing two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and one b-PI. Efficacy and safety of this treatment, as well as the reasons for starting and changing it, were evaluated.
Methods
An observational, retrospective study was performed on the use of b-PIs in adult HIV patients. Individuals who started treatment with two NRTIs (emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide) and one b-PI (darunavir combined with cobicistat or ritonavir) between October 2019 and September 2021 were eligible for our study. This study was retrospectively registered by local Ethics Committee of our hospital (protocol number: PI-5066) on January 13th 2022.
Results
Overall, 52 patients started ART with two NRTIs plus one b-PIs. Only 8% of them were naïve, 21% received already two NRTIs plus a b-PI and 71% received other regimens. Reasons to start PIs were adverse effects to previous treatment and previous treatment failure. Most patients continued PIs treatment during the 2 years follow-up period and only six of them withdrew it.
Conclusions
This study analyzes the subgroup of patients that could benefit from treatment with b-PIs in the current era of integrase inhibitors. Even though its use is minority, its efficacy is high especially in patients with toxicity, therapeutic failure or poor adherence to other ARTs.
Land-Use Change in Wetlands: A Multi-Disciplinary Study in Iran
Authors: Damaneh Hadi Eskandari , Damaneh Hamed Eskandari , Zehtabian Behnaz , Rezai Marzieh , Sardooei Mohsen Adeli , Tiefenbacher John P.
Published: July 2022

Land-use changes are a primary cause of global environmental change. Land use is the management of land cover through human intervention. Study of land-use change in wetlands is largely overlooked as an estimated 30 to 90 % of the world’s wetlands have been destroyed or strongly modified. Therefore, supporting wetland conservation is an urgent priority in three high-level global agendas of 2030. While many factors like global warming and changing climates are key to wetland degradation today, overexploitation by agriculture is the most important destroyer of wetlands in countries like Iran. This study examines the case of the Bakhtegan and Tashak wetland in Iran to determine the factors that influence farmers’ attitudes and behaviors toward wetland conservation. This is done in two phases. The first phase uses remote sensing and GIS to analyze land use changes from 2000 to 2020. The second phase involves surveying farmers to examine the factors behind their intended willingness to participate or support conservation. The data were analyzed using ENVI 5.3, GIS 10.3, SPSS 20, and AMOS 20. The results of phase one reveal a significant increase of bare lands around the wetlands. The survey shows that attitude and subjective norms had positive influences on farmers’ behavioral intentions toward wetland conservation to a statistically significant extent.
Prediction of exercise-induced desaturation in COPD patients without resting hypoxemia: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang Lulu , Qumu Shiwei , Shi Minghui , Situ Xuanming , He Jiaze , Yang Ting
Published: July 2022

BackgroundThere is no universally accepted criterion for assessing exercise-induced desaturation (EID). The purpose of this study is to compare the two methods regularly used methods for determining EID in COPD patients,as well as to explore the risk factors and predictors related to EID.MethodsThe 6MWT was performed with continuous SpO2 monitoring on patients with stable COPD. Using two methods (method A: "SpO2rest-SpO2min≥ 4% and/or SpO2min< 90%", method B: "SpO2rest-SpO2end≥ 4% and/or SpO2end< 90%") as EID determination criteria to assess the incidence of EID. The differences and consistency of the two methods are compared. Moreover, we collected data through the pulmonary function test, mMRC dyspnea score, COPD assessment test, BODE index and CT-defined emphysema. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors affecting the EID. For the parameters that predict EID in 6MWT, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed.ResultsThe analysis included 124 patients. The overall incidence of EID was 62.1% by using method A as the criterion and 51.6% by method B. All of the EID patients found by method B were included in the EID patients identified by method A, as well as 13 new-EID patients. The difference in diagnostic outcomes between the two approaches was not statistically significant (P>0.05), but they were in excellent agreement (Kappa=0.807, P=0.001). Logistic regression analyses found that DLCO SB% pred, DLCO/VA% pred, CAT score, mean density, PD15, emphysema volume and %LAA were significant determinants of the EID. For predicting EID, the ROC analysis produced AUC and cutoffs of 0.689 and 50.45% (DLCO SB% pred), 0.707 and 75.0% (DLCO/VA% pred), 0.727 and 15 points (CAT score), 0.691 and -955.00HU (PD15), 0.671 and -856.46HU (mean density), 0.668 and 338.14ml (emphysema volume) and 0.656 and 7.63% (%LAA), respectively.ConclusionsTwo methods evaluating EID in this research are in a good agreement, method A can find more EID patients by focusing on SpO2min. When conditions are constrained, it is also sufficient to assess EID in COPD patients by method B. In terms of the predictors of EID, DLCO SB% pred, DLCO/VA% pred, CAT score and CT-defined emphysema are all statistically significant test variables to determine EID.
Causal analysis of trade openness, government expenditures and economic growth in Nigeria (1980-2020): Recalling economic policy corrective actions
Authors: Zaria Yusuf Bala
Published: July 2022

This research investigates the causality relationship between trade openness, government expenditures and investment in infrastructure's relative advantage of economic growth for recalling economic policy corrective actions. Based on the theory of comparative advantage and elementary neoclassical trade model that concentrating on different productivity would improve trade and development potentials of the country. It employs Johansen cointegration and Granger causality techniques to examine the comparative advantage theory and assess the short-run and long-run relationship. Annual time-series data from 1980 to 2020 shows the relationship between trade openness, government expenditures on education and investment in infrastructure are statistically significant for economic growth in Nigeria. There is a cointegration relationship among the indicators with relative advantage, and Granger causality reveals short-run. There is a bidirectional relationship between trade openness and economic growth. While a unidirectional relationship between trade openness and infrastructural development on economic growth. Hence, this research realize that human capital development does not affect economic growth. The policy recommendations imply that all the indicators are solid macroeconomic factors following the empirical analysis for emphasizing the relative advantage of trade openness in Nigeria. The policymakers should consider trade diversification through development of infrastructure, human capital development to increase productivity toward economic growth.
What is the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, season and temperature on prevalence of childhood diarrhoeal cases and treatment in India during 2018-2021– A 41 months cross-sectional research study?
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Anupama Advocate
Published: July 2022

Globally diarrheal illness is the second leading reason behind death in kids underneath 5 years accounting for 525 000 kids death annually, which can be treated and prevented if timely interventions are applied as well as can be prevented through safe drinking-water with adequate sanitation and hygiene. Global prevalence of childhood diarrhoea is about 1.7 billion cases per annum. SARS-CoV utilize the Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) with the serine protease TMPRSS2 for S protein priming. ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are expressed in lung, as well as small intestinal epithelia, added to this the ACE2 is expressed in the oesophagus, liver, and colon; SARS-CoV-2 binds strongly with ACE2 (10–20 times) compared with other SARS-CoV. The purpose of this research is to examine the epidemiology of childhood diarrheal events during COVID-19-period and comparing it with the pre-pandemic period of 2018–2019 as well as monthly-seasonal-temperature variations during different months of pre-pandemic and pandemic period associated diarrhoea to identify any changes in the usual seasonal pattern of childhood diarrheal events. A total of 11171113 eligible childhood diarrhoea (0–5 years) and 1704819 Childhood diarrhoea treated in Inpatients (0–5 years) were analyzed during the 41 month study period. A total of 11171113 (mean-272466.2; [95% Conf. Interval means] 250375.4- 294556.9) childhood diarrhoea (mean-; [95% Conf. Interval means]) (0–5 years), 1704819 (mean 41580.95-; [95% Conf. Interval means − 36458.75- 46703.15]) childhood diarrhoea treated in Inpatients (0–5 years), 7603860 (mean 185460-; [95% Conf. Interval means − 159578.8- 211341.2]) were included in this study on an all-India basis. The 41 months of study when grouped into two groups as pre-pandemic era and pandemic era shows that the Monthly /seasonally Prevalence of Childhood diarrhoea (0–5 years) were MAX in July 2019 monsoon season during pre-pandemic period with 418722 cases ([95% CONF. INTERVAL] 299758.7- 338763.3; STD. ERR.- 9427.519; MEAN-319261; STD. DEV- 46185.22; and MIN-261319 in December 2019, post monsoon season, See table- 1, 3, and 4; figure-5 and 6. During the COVID-19 pandemic period Monthly /seasonally Prevalence of Childhood diarrhoea (0–5 years) were MAX in February 2020 winter season during pre-pandemic period with 284075 cases ([95% CONF. INTERVAL] 188170.3–224635.3; STD. ERR.- 8600.616; MEAN-206402.8; STD. DEV- 35461.25; and MIN-158007 in April 2020.
The prevalence of smartphone addiction and associated factors among Zimbabwean undergraduate students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Muchemwa Sidney , Moyo Pamela I.A. , Paradza Blessing , Chipunza Omega , Dambi Jermaine M. , Chibanda Dixon , Kaiyo-Utete Malinda
Published: July 2022

Objective: Smartphones are an invaluable daily tool, with over a third of the world having mobile access to the internet. There has been a concurrent upsurge in smartphone use among university students, and despite these benefits, excessive use of smartphones is highly prevalent. Smartphone addiction/problematic mobile phone use is a behavioural addiction that leads to severe impairment and distress. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to an exponential increase in smartphone usage, further exacerbating the burden of smartphone addiction. This study aims to determine the prevalence of smartphone addiction and its associated risk factors among Zimbabwean university students. Data were collected from 380 undergraduate students and analyzed through descriptive statistics, bivariate statistics, and binary logistic regression.Results: The prevalence of smartphone addiction in our study population was 54.2%. After controlling for potential covariates, social media usage (OR 2.7: CI 1.2 – 5.9), using a smartphone for entertainment (OR 2.2: CI 1.2 – 4.0), the experience of coronavirus-induced anxiety (OR 1.1: CI 1.0 – 3.2) and an experience of an adverse event (OR 1.8) were associated with increased smartphone addiction. The use of smartphones for academic work was protective against smartphone addiction (OR .38: CI .19 - .77).
Association of COVID-19 with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ssentongo Paddy , Zhang Yue , Witmer Lisa , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Ba Djibril M.
Published: July 2022

Emerging evidence suggests that long COVID-19 may lead to a wide range of post-acute sequelae outcomes, including new onset of diabetes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the incidence of newly diagnosed diabetes in survivors of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Multiple electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and the World Health Organization Global Literature on Coronavirus Disease) and clinical trial registries were searched to June 25, 2022, for studies reporting the association of COVID-19 and diabetes. Two investigators independently assessed studies for inclusion. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We estimated the effect of COVID-19 on incident diabetes by random-effects meta-analyses using the generic inverse variance method. We identified 5 eligible studies consisting of 1,130,773 COVID-19 patients and 16,630,187 controls. Median age was 43 years (interquartile range, 1QR: 20–55), and 34.8 % were female. COVID-19 was associated with a 74% higher risk of incident diabetes (risk ratio, 1.74; 95% CI: 1.37; 2.21). The average risk of bias assessment was 7.5. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, COVID-19 was associated with higher risk for developing new onset diabetes among survivors. Active monitoring of glucose dysregulation after recovery from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2) infection is warranted.
STUDY OF CROSS-CULTURAL DIFFERENCES AS ONE OF THE FACTORS OF INFLUENCE ON DOING INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Authors: Petrushenko Yu. , Kirilieva A. , Tuliakova A. , Tatarchenko Iu.
Published: July 2022

The article determines that the modern internal and external environment of successful and long-term international activities is undergoing constant change. In order to ensure the efficiency of economic activity, it is necessary to form and apply modernized methods of doing business. A significant number of factors influencing the activities of companies on the world stage determines the interest in their study and structuring.
It is proved that the key drivers of the impact of globalization on international business in hypercompetition are lowering barriers, increasing cross-border trade and investment, increasing global product production for global consumers, use of Internet and information technologies, the role of emerging economies in the world market. global quality systems and product standards. It should be noted that international business is focused on the implementation of specific measures to expand markets, services, capital, labor, search for new sources of production and financial resources, diversification of economic activities and more. Factors influencing business efficiency are investigated. The authors have identified the most important factors influencing international business and considered them in terms of three groups: domestic, microeconomic and macroeconomic factors. This is the way to structure the factors of influence will allow you to most effectively determine their positive effect and possible risks. The degree of influence of each group of factors is determined. In the framework of this research, the emphasis is on the characteristics of communicative cultural differences and their impact on international business. The problem of intercultural interaction has become one of the key areas of research on the effectiveness of international relations. The role of intercultural functions in the global business network is revealed. The company's success in the foreign market depends mainly on how well established professional communication with a foreign business partner and how well he knows the details of local culture for effective and professional negotiations.
COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on the Supply Chains of UK-Based Multinational Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Hasan Fakhrul , Islam Mohammad Raijul , Ishrat Faria
Published: July 2022

The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the main impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the supply chain structures and arrangements of UK-based multinational manufacturing companies. The main objectives of this research are (1) to establish the main risks posed by COVID-19 to the existing supply chains established by multinational manufacturers in the UK, and (2) to evaluate whether multinational manufacturing businesses in the UK can learn from challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic by referring to the concept of supply chain resilience and (3) to provide practical recommendations to multinational manufacturers in the UK on how the key impacts of COVID-19 could be overcome and leveraged as a source of new knowledge in the area of supply chain management. The posed objectives were realized via the mixed methods research strategy involving a quantitative survey and its triangulation with the results of qualitative interviews conducted with managers of such organizations. We used two different data collection channels (1) LinkedIn and (2) Reddit. Our data set was constructed with 12 questionnaires and three interviewers. Using these data sets, our findings strongly suggest that the seven identified risk dimensions influenced the supply chain integrity of these companies both before and after the global COVID-19 pandemic. It could be attributed to the insular state of the UK and other macro-environmental factors limiting the procurement capabilities of local firms. However, most of these dimensions were severely affected by the pandemic, demonstrated by both the performed Friedman tests and the statements voiced by the interviewees. While some mitigation strategies were cited as relatively effective for addressing the emerging risks, most of the respondents noted that the systemic nature of encountered problems and their magnitude made it difficult for individual companies to avoid, mitigate, or transfer these risks.
Watermelon Seedling Quality, Growth, and Development as Affected by Grafting and Chilling Exposure During Simulated Transportation
Authors: Ertle John M. , Kubota Chieri
Published: July 2022

Grafted watermelon plants available in the United States are typically transported for a long distance from a specialized nursery to the production field. To investigate the effects of chilling stress during transportation on the early plant growth and development, grafted and nongrafted ‘Tri-X-313’ seedless watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seedlings were subjected to low-temperature treatments applied over a 72-hour period. The first experiment exposed grafted and nongrafted seedlings to 0, 6, 12, 24, or 48 hours of 1 °C chilling, and then were moved to a 12 °C growth chamber for the remainder of the chilling treatment period. The second experiment exposed nongrafted seedlings to seven different combinations of chilling duration (0, 24, 32, 41, 44, or 48 hours) to create varied chilling degree hours (CDH) at different temperatures (between −0.4 °C and 1.2 °C). After 72 hours, seedlings were transplanted in pots filled with a commercial substrate in a greenhouse to evaluate the early plant growth and floral development. Each experiment had two repeats (spring and summer) with a randomized complete block design (n = 10). Although greater exposure to chilling negatively affected visual quality and photosynthetic capacity [measured by chlorophyll fluorescence parameter, variable fluorescence/maximum fluorescence (Fv/Fm)] in both repeats, delay in flowering after transplanting was significant in spring only and increased with increasing CDH (up to 6 days with 48 hours of 1 °C exposure). Grafting was found to mitigate the degree of flowering delay when the same chilling exposure was applied. When chilling temperatures were varied, visual damage of leaves, decrease in Fv/Fm, and delays in female flower development were best correlated with CDH at a base temperature of 15 °C, 3 °C, and 4 °C, respectively. Our experiments and further analyses with available literature data suggest that 50 to 70 CDH4 [CDH with base temperature (BT) = 4 °C] seems to be a critical threshold to cause significant delay in female flower development (3.5 days for grafted and 1.3 days for nongrafted plants). Therefore, if temperatures lower than 4 °C are expected during transportation of seedlings, we suggest mitigation measures be taken so that CDH4 do not reach greater than 50 degree hours.