bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity and Co-occurrence in the Luminal and Mucosal Gut Microbiomes and Metabolomes of Oriental Rat snake (Ptyas mucosus)
Authors: Wei Yuting , Zhou Mingfang , Fang Wenjie , Liu Qiuhong , Mao Huirong , Chen Biao , Liu Sanfeng , Zhang Tianxiang , Xu Yongtao , Zhang Weiwei , Zheng Yunlin , Hu Xiaolong
Published: November 2022

Background
The gut microbiomes of animals have been widely investigated, but the effects of sampling sites in the gastrointestinal tract remain unclear. Previous studies regarding the gastrointestinal biogeography of microbiomes generally focused on longitudinal comparisons, whereas few studies have compared luminal and mucosal microbiomes. Investigations of the snake gut microbiome have attracted interest because of the unique digestive physiology and hibernation behavior, but adequate sampling methods must be developed. Here, we used an omics approach combining 16S rRNA gene sequencing with untargeted metabolomics to profile the luminal and mucosal gut microbiomes and metabolomes in oriental rat snakes, with the goal of revealing the heterogeneity and co-occurrence at these sites.
Results
The α-diversity of the gut microbiome was significantly higher at mucosal sites than at luminal sites. Microbial composition also differed according to sampling site, with significant differences in the abundances of dominant phyla and genera, as well as β-diversity clustering and distribution. Metabolome profiling revealed differences that were mainly related to cholinergic substances and nucleic acids. Analysis of variations in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functions of microbes and metabolites showed that the mucosal microbiome was more frequently involved in genetic information processing and cellular processes, whereas the luminal microbiome generally participated in metabolic regulation. Notably, we found a greater abundance of the opportunistic pathogen genus Escherichia-Shigella at luminal sites, and higher levels of the lipid-regulator metabolite fenfluramine at mucosal sites. Despite the extensive differences between the two sampling sites, the results revealed similarities in terms of amplicon sequence variant composition and dominant core microbes.
Conclusions
Our results partly support the hypothesis that the luminal microbiome is associated with metabolism, whereas the mucosal microbiome mainly contributes to immune function. Although studies of the snake microbiome have been limited, this pilot exploration of luminal and mucosal microbiomes and metabolites provides key insights to guide future research.
A Framework for Evaluating the Reusability of Software-As-A-Service Using Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Deepika Deepika , Sangwan Om Prakash
Published: November 2022

Cloud computing provides software and hardware resources in the form of cloud services with the help of internet. Cloud Computing is also coming forward as an efficient criterion for reuse. Software-as-a Service is one of the three types of cloud services which provides on demand software services on pay-as-you-go basis. In order to make SaaS more advantageous and to assist end users efficiently, there is a need to build a reusability model for SaaS. Reusability plays a very vital role in developing a product easily and efficiently. In this paper, we have proposed a software reusability estimation model for SaaS. We have been used Fuzzy Logic Methodology for evaluating the SaaS reusability. For this model, we used the SaaS reusability attributes i.e., Commonality, Accessibility, Availability, Customizability and Efficiency. Centroid Method is used for validating the results obtained from the proposed approach. This model evaluates the reusability of SaaS services with the required accuracy level. On the basis of experiment results, it has been proved out that machine learning techniques gives enhanced accuracy of estimation as compared to other reusability estimation techniques, found helpful and more useful for SaaS service providers as well as users.
Exploring Intervention of Selenium on Gut Microbiota Homeostasis and Corresponding Genetic Metabolism in Mice with Breast Cancer on a High-fat Diet Using Metagenomics Sequencing
Authors: Li Yinan , Liu Min , Kong Bingtan , Zhang Ganlin , Zhang Qing
Published: November 2022

Background: The trace element selenium has an important effect on gut microbial homeostasis and the gut microbiota is closely related to breast cancer and its high-fat status. The effect of selenium on the gut microbiota of breast cancer in the high-fat state is unknown.
Materials and Methods: Twelve female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into two groups (4T1+selenium+fat diet group, 4T1+high fat diet group). To establish an obese mouse model, cultured 4T1 cells were transplanted on the right 4th mammary fat pad under anesthesia with 105 4T1 cells /50µl /mouse, and were given a high-fat diet for feeding. DNA was extracted from mouse fecal samples for meta-genomics sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The relevant target genes and pathways were annotated and metabolically analyzed to explore the intervention effect of selenium on breast cancer in the high-fat state.
Results: Compared with the control group, the gut microbiota distribution and diversity were changed in breast cancer tumor bearing mice on a high-fat diet with selenium intervention. The gut microbial composition was significantly different in the selenium intervention group, with Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Verrucomicrobia phylum as well as the Helicobacter_ganmani，Helicobacter_japonicus and Akkermansia_muciniphila several species were increased and The phyla represented by Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Deferribacteres, Spirochaetes, as well as the Prevotella_sp_MGM2，Muribaculum_intestinale，Lactobacillus_murinus and Prevotella_sp_MGM1 several species of microbes were decreased. By functional analysis, a total of 21 significantly different functional genes associated with carbohydrate active enzymes were predicted, 455 significant genes of pathogen host interactions, 66 genes significantly associated with cell communication and cell auto-induction, 834 genes associated with membrane transporters, 220 genes related to virulence factors that were significantly different after selenium intervention. 37 cogs were predicted. 48 metabolites with rising metabolic potential in the selenium intervention group, such as L-alanine, SO2, and O2, among others.
Conclusions: Selenium can affect the homeostasis of gut microbiota by affecting the structure and abundance and associated metabolism of gut microbiota in mice with breast cancer on a high-fat diet. The mechanism may be through interfering with gut microbiota homeostasis, further affecting the synthesis of tumor associated proteins and fatty acids, and inducing tumor cell apoptosis and pyroptosis.
Development of mesothelioma-specific oncolytic vaccine exploiting immunopeptidomic analysis of murine and human tumors
Authors: Chiaro Jacopo , Antignani Gabriella , Feola Sara , Feodoroff Michaela , Martins Beatriz , Cojoc Hanne , Ferrari Valentina , Ciampi Daniele , Ilonen Ilkka , Räsänen Jari , Mäyränpää Mikko , Partanen Jukka , Koskela Satu , Kuryk Lukasz , Russo Salvatore , Fusciello Manlio , Hamdan Firas , Rescigno Maria , Grönholm Mikaela , Branca Rui Mamede , Lehtiö Janne , Cerullo Vincenzo
Published: November 2022

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis. As the available therapeutic options show a lack of efficacy, novel treatments and therapeutic targets are urgently needed.
It has been observed that MPM is responsive to immunotherapeutic cancer treatments, and given its T-cell infiltration, we hypothesized that MPM is a suitable target for therapeutic cancer vaccination.
To date, research on mesothelioma has focused on the identification of molecular signatures to better classify and characterize the disease, and little is known about therapeutic targets to engage cytotoxic (CD8+) T cells. In this study, for the first time, we explored the immunopeptidomic antigen-presented landscape of MPM in both murine (AB12 cell line), human cell lines (H28, MSTO-211H, H2452, and JL1), and in patients' primary tumors. Applying state-of-art MHC immuno-affinity purification methodologies, we identified MHC-I-restricted peptides presented on the surface of malignant cells. We characterized some newly discovered patients-derived peptides utilizing in vitro co-culturing techniques, demonstrating that eluted peptides showed promising immunogenicity profiles. Additionally, we provided a proof-of-concept for the application of a whole antigen discovery pipeline using immunopeptidomics for cancer vaccine development in a murine model of MPM. Overall, we investigated the antigen landscape of MPM and showed that the discovered peptides show potential to be used for therapeutic cancer vaccine.
Associations between socioeconomic status, response inhibition, and state and trait anxiety in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Zhao Xin , Li Fanxia , Maes Joseph H.R.
Published: November 2022

Response inhibition ability is assumed to play a vital role in many behavioral and health outcomes. Research on identifying correlates of response inhibition might inform theoretical considerations on causes and effects of this ability, and ultimately interventions. This study focused on two such correlates, for which there is a lack of research and/or mixed findings: childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and state and trait anxiety. A sample of 463 Chinese high school students, aged 14–18 years, filled in questionnaires on childhood SES and trait and state anxiety, and performed a go/no-go response inhibition task. Significant positive associations were found between SES and various measures of response inhibition ability. Moreover, SES was negatively associated with both types of anxiety, which were negatively associated with indices of response inhibition ability. Also based on exploratory ad-hoc mediation and modulation analyses, these associations were discussed in terms of possible causal relations among the variables.
Towards potent Covid-19 spike protein inhibitors and catecholase activity agents: Synthesis, ADME-Tox analysis and molecular docking of new 1,2,4- triazole-based molecules
Authors: Zerrouki Abdelkhalek , Abrigach Farid , Taleb Mustapha , Kadiri Sghir El
Published: November 2022

The discovery of new efficiency therapeutic agents that can block the adhesion of the transmembrane glycoprotein Spike (S-protein) to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) receptor remains one of the most investigated strategies to fight against Covid-19 pandemic. In this context, new triazole derivatives have been synthesized through condensation reactions between (1H-1, 2, 4-triazol-1-yl)methanol and different secondary amines. Their chemical scaffolds were well illuminated by1H/13C/ COSY/ HSQC NMR, FT-IR and mass spectroscopies.In silicoinvestigations have been carried out. ADME-Tox screening revealed that the prepared compounds could serve as excellent oral candidate drugs with optimal pharmacokinetic proprieties and toxicological profiles. Molecular docking simulations against the isolated S-RBD protein and SARS-CoV-2-RBD- hACE2 complex showed that our compounds could form important hydrogen, hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions with some key residues that ensure the binding of the S-protein to its hACE2 receptor making them good candidate agents that can block or prevent the entry of SARS-CoV-2 virus in the host cell. Additionally, catecholase activity of the tridentate ligands have been studied. The obtained findings demonstrated that a systematic variation of the ligand substituent and metallic salts types, significantly influences the interaction of thein situcomplexes with catechol and hence the oxidase biomimetic catalytic activities. Complex L3/Cu(CH3COO)2was found to exhibit the highest activity towards oxidation of catechol to its corresponding quinone with a rate of 2.44 𝜇mol.l−1.min−1.
Optimization of electroosmotic flow to enhance the removal of contaminants from low permeable soils
Authors: Hussain Abdul Ahad , Akram Aasma
Published: November 2022

Electrokinetic is the effective method for the extraction of contamination from low permeable soil. This work examines the influence of calcium ions on the electroosmosis, and the effects of electric potential, current, and pH variation on the removal of Pb2+, Na+, and Clˉ ions from artificially contaminated soil during vertical electrokinetic experiments. The DC electric field of 1V/cm was applied across the soil specimen via steel mesh electrodes for 24, 48 and 72 hours of experiment. The outcomes show that the formation of acidic and alkaline environments in soil specimens affects the transport of ionic charge species by reducing the effect of electroosmosis. To enhance the electroosmotic flow, the anode reservoir filled with and without calcium chloride solution was examined. The enhancement of electroosmosis using calcium ions as an electrolyte increased the extraction efficiency of Pb2+ and Na+ ions instead of the Clˉ ions due to the high electroosmotic flow from anode to cathode. For relatively low electroosmotic flow, the removal rate of Clˉ ions was higher than the Pb2+ and Na+ ions. The results demonstrated that the extraction efficiency was increased with an increase in the treatment time. To avoid the dryness of the soil surface, wet sponges were inserted at the anode side, which connected with the electrolyte.
Changes in functional brain activity patterns associated with computer programming learning in novices
Authors: Hishikawa Kenji , Yoshinaga Kenji , Togo Hiroki , Hongo Takeshi , Hanakawa Takashi
Published: November 2022

Background
Computer programming, the process of designing, writing, and testing executable computer code, is an essential skill in numerous fields. A description of the neural structures engaged and modified during programming skill acquisition could help improve training programs and provide clues to the neural substrates underlying the acquisition of related skills.
Methods
Fourteen female university students without prior computer programing experience were examined by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during the early and late stages of a 5-month ‘Computer Processing’ course. Brain regions involved in task performance and learning were identified by comparing responses to programming and control tasks during the early and late stages.
Results
The accuracy of programming task performance was significantly improved during the late stage. Various regions of the frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital cortex as well as several subcortical structures (caudate nuclei and cerebellum) were activated during programming tasks. Brain activity in the right inferior frontal gyrus was greater during the late stage and significantly correlated with task performance. Learning was also associated with a rightward shift in laterality of the bilateral inferior frontal gyri. Although the left inferior frontal gyrus was also highly active during the programming task, there were no learning-induced changes in activity nor a significant correlation between activity and task performance.
Conclusion
Computer programming learning among novices induces functional neuroplasticity within the right inferior frontal gyrus but not the left inferior gyrus (Broca’s area).
Assessment of vasa vasorum on plaque components and no-reflow phenomenon by intravascular ultrasound and iMap analysis
Authors: Wu Xi , Cai Xin-Yu , Wang Quan , Ji Gang , Yan Yan , Song Jing , Chen Jing , Huang He
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Previously, researches have revealed that vasa vasorum (VV) neovascularisation is vital for the progression and vulnerability of coronary atherosclerosis plaque. Our team explored plaque constituents in iMap-intravascular ultrasound (iMap-IVUS) and no-reflow phenomenon (NRP) in the course of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for lesions with VV.

Methods

Our team studied 385 coronary lesions in 361 patients (169 lesions with VV) undergoing pre-intervention IVUS. The diversities in plaque morphological status and post-PCI results were evaluated as per the presence or absence of VV.

Results

Lesions with VV were more frequently identified in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients (69.8% vs. 22.2%, P < 0.001).Plaques at the minimum lumen area, necrotic core area (1.24 ± 0.53mm2 vs. 1.24 ± 0.53mm2, P < 0.001;17.13 ± 6.67% vs.17.13 ± 6.67%, P < 0.001) and fibrous area (4.30 ± 0.90mm2 vs. 4.09 ± 1.00mm2, P = 0.033; 60.29 ± 8.24% vs. 58.04 ± 12.29%, P = 0.041) were considerably larger in the lesion with VV than in the lesion without VV. In addition,densely calcified plaques (0.40 ± 0.24mm2 vs. 0.79 ± 0.63mm2, P < 0.001; 5.72 ± 3.23% vs.11.63 ± 10.06%, P < 0.001) were considerably smaller in the lesion with VV than in the lesion without VV. Multivariate analyses revealed that VV and plaque volume were independent prediction factors of NRP posterior to stent deployment (odds ratio 0.091, 95% CI 0.039–0.210, P ＜0.001;odds ratio 0.949, 95% CI 0.921–1.979, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Lesions with VV displayed great plaque vulnerability and were more frequently identified in ACS patients,, and they displayed more NRP in the course of PCI in contrast to lesions without VV. Multivariate analyses revealed that VV and plaque volume were independent prediction factors of NRP posterior to stent deployment.
The prevalence of common mental disorders among the students of Kuwait university after the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Haggag Abdelmotaleb Abdelkader
Published: November 2022

Background: Previous studies indicated that the mental health of college students was a growing concern even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Community-based surveys report a high prevalence of mental disorders among college students, the most common being OCD, anxiety and depression. The factors causing the high rates of mental disorders differ from one society to another as a result of the different cultural, social, economic and political systems of each society.
Methods: This research aimed to know the prevalence of common mental disorders among the students of Kuwait university after the Covid-19 pandemic. An Internet-based cross-sectional study was conducted where the participants from students of Kuwait university were targeted using total population sampling. 380 participants from students of Kuwait university were recruited, between September18 and December8, 2021. Participants completed sociodemographic data and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI).
Results: The results reveal that there is moderate level of mental disorders among participants. About 17% of the participants high level of mental disorders. About 42.6% of the participants moderate level of mental disorders. Obsessive-compulsive was coming in the first order. Depression was coming in the second order. Somatization was coming in the third order. Interpersonal Sensitivity was coming in the fourth order. The groups most suffering from mental disorders were students studying natural sciences and females.
Conclusions: 17% of the participants high level of mental disorders was found. This study recommended that providing guidance programs to educate male and female students in universities about the importance of maintaining mental health and treatment in cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and depression. Develop the positive aspects of university students, such as developing talents and practicing sports.
DETECTION OF GAS LEAKAGE IN AIR CONDITIONER
Authors: M. SUSARITHA , CHANDRU S. GOKUL , M. EZHILARASAN , K.R ANISH
Published: November 2022

In this paper we are going to monitor the gas leakage in the air conditioner. Commonly a small leakage of gas may gradually build up an explosive concentration of gas. This project monitors the gas leakage in the air conditioner by using the gas sensor. Leakage of gas and smoke present inside a room is found by using a gas sensor. This project used Arduino UNO as the Microcontroller where it process the input from the sensor. If gas leakage is detected, then the system gives alert alarm by using a buzzer sound and sent SMS through GSM module to communicate with the user.
Efficiency Dynamics and Productivity Analysis of Manufacturing Industries in Bangladesh
Authors: Sanusi Olajide , Adeeko Omotara
Published: November 2022

In this study we use the stochastic frontier model in estimating total factor productivity (TFP) growth and technical efficiencies for manufacturing industries in Bangladesh by using surveys collected during five rounds in 1982/83, 1984/85, 1988/89, 2005/06 and 2012. To detect the source of growth, we further decompose Total Factor Productivity growth into efficiency growth, scale component, and technological progress. Our result establishes that, on average, technical efficiency was 80%, noting that the export focused industries are comparatively more efficient than non-export focused industries. Furthermore, medium, and large-scale industries have a lower TFP growth than small scale industries. Furthermore, the Total Factor Productivity growth estimations shows that productivity in the manufacturing industries in Bangladesh was approximately 5.5% in the review period illustrating that technological progress is a major driver of growth. Additionally, this study provides evidence on the likelihood of TFP growth convergence over time among the manufacturing industries in Bangladesh.
Waterfalls, Societies, and Temperaments – Fragmentation and Wholeness in the Lives and Work of David Bohm and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel
Authors: Kožnjak Boris
Published: November 2022

U ovom članku analiziram dosad većinski zanemarene društvene i psihologičke korijene filozofije cjelovitosti u Davida Bohma i Georga Wilhelma Friedricha Hegela. Bohmu je Hegel bio najsnažniji filozofijski utjecaj kroz njegov zreo intelektualni život, međutim, kako se dokazuje u članku, Bohmovo nepodnošenje fragmentacije i njegova naklonost prema cjelovitosti, značajno odražena u njegovoj fizici i filozofiji znanosti, ustvari je ostvarenje posebnih društvenih sklonosti i psihologičkih odrednica njegova ranog emocionalnog i intelektualnog razvoja za koji je Hegelova filozofija bio ključni razumski katalizator u kasnijem životu. Društvene sklonosti i psihičke odrednice Bohmova ranog razvoja nadalje se dokazuju kao upečatljivo slične onima koje su mladog Hegela navele na nošenje s pojmom cjelovitosti tijekom njegova života. Ovaj članak također donosi biografske dokaze za Bohmovo cjeloživotno zanimanje za Hegela te analizira stanje učenosti o njegovu hegelijanizmu, prirodi Hegelove filozofije kako se odražava u Bohmovu radu i razloge za nekako neočekivano disciplinarno zanemarenje ključnog utjecaja Hegelove filozofije na Bohmovu filozofiju.
Early Indian Semantics – Grammatical and Philosophical Approach
Authors: Kardaš Goran
Published: November 2022

U članku predlažem analizirati najraniju indijsku sustavnu raspravu o problemu značenja i denotacije riječi. Rasprava je, čini se, začeta u poznatoj indijskoj gramatičkoj tradiciji (vyākaraṇa), a svoj je konačni oblik dobila kod gramatičara Patañjalija (drugo stoljeće prije Krista) u djelu Mahābhāṣya. Čitava se rasprava prenijela i nadalje razvijala unutar klasične indijske filozofije, počevši sa školom Nyāya čija su stajališta vezana za semantiku ovdje također analizirana na osnovi klasičnih djela te škole.
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED: STRAIGHT MEN IN TEACHING PROFESSION
Authors: B. Fornelos Helen
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to describe the views of identified straight men about the teaching profession and the challenges they faced. There were five straight men teachers identified by the screening committee who participated in this study. The five cases of this study revealed that there is a vital need for straight men teachers because of their perceived edge of male over female and gay teachers. They also viewed the motivating concerns for teaching and the deterring issues in teaching. Challenges faced by straight men includes insecurities in early teaching years handling of heterogeneous students interpersonal relations with colleagues and stringent adherence to policies. The five straight men see themselves as a role model and father figure to both male and female students who do not have a real father at home and are deprived of the love and care of a father. They considered their role as a firm decision maker that bears a firm leadership. All participants have marked difference and uniqueness across the case.
Synthesis of Isatins and Oxindoles Derivatives as SARS-CoV-2 Inhibitors Evaluated through Phenotypic Screening with Vero Cells
Authors: Lima Cintia , Freitas-Junior Lúcio , Moraes Carolina , Barbosa Cecília , Opatz Till , Victor Mauricio
Published: November 2022

To expand the variety of density functionalized compounds evaluated against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), we decided to prepare new acetylated and disubstituted 3-hydroxy bis-oxindoles and isoindigos coupling compounds using known protocols. The corresponding isatin derivatives were synthesized by ZrCl4/EtOH/reflux or HCl/AcOH/ reflux coupling conditions using oxindole and functionalized isatins, furnishing new 3-hydroxy bis-oxindoles, which were dehydrated into new isoindigos. A total of 27 compounds bearing halogen, nitro and/or hydroxy groups on the isatin moiety, at the 3-, 5- and 7-positions, were prepared, including 5 new 3-hydroxy bis-oxindoles and 3 new halogenated isoindigos prepared according adapted procedures described in the literature. This library of nitrogen-isatin derivatives was evaluated against SARS-CoV-2 using a phenotypic screening assay. In this investigation, isatin derivatives 3d, 3e, 3h and 3i showed antiviral activity when tested at a single concentration. Compound 3e showed antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in the concentration-response assay, however, it showed cellular toxicity in Vero cells. The present study identified substituted isatins as a promising new starting point for the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.
Neuroprotective and Neuroregenerative Effects of Shikonin-mediated
Inhibition of NF-κB/Stat3 in Alcoholic Encephalopathy
Authors: Zyuz’kov Gleb Nikolaevich , Miroshnichenko Larisa Arkad`evna , Polyakova Tatyana Yur`evna , Simanina Elena Vladislavovna
Published: November 2022

Background:

Targeting intracellular signaling molecules in nervous tissue progenitors is a
promising basis for the development of novel neurodegenerative disease therapy approaches. Naphthoquinone
shikonin from the root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon is known to have inhibitory effects on
NF-κB and STAT3.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the influence of shikonin on the functioning of progenitors of
nervous tissue and its neuroprotective properties in the modeling of alcoholic encephalopathy (AE).

Methods:

Experiments were performed on C57B1/6 male mice. AE was modeled by prolonged intragastric
administration of ethanol. We studied the exploratory behavior and conditioned reflex activity in
laboratory animals, as well as the functioning of neural stem cells (NSCs) and neuronal committed progenitors
(NCPs) of the subventricular zone of the cerebral hemispheres. NCPs were obtained using the
immunomagnetic separation method. The direct in vitro effects of the shikonin on the colony-forming
capacity of progenitors, their proliferative activity, and intensity of specialization were compared with the
effects of synthetic NF-κB and STAT3 inhibitors.

Results:

Results of in vitro experiments showed that the influence of phytochemicals was similar to the
effects of synthetic NF-κB and STAT3 inhibitors. Shikonin stimulated the proliferation of NSCs and
NCPs. In vivo shikonin administration caused the normalization of exploratory behavior and conditioned
reflex activity of mice with AE. These effects developed after an increase in NSCs and NCPs content in
the subventricular zone of the cerebral hemispheres due to an increase in their proliferative activity. The
intensity of specialization of progenitors was also accelerated.

Conclusion:

The findings indicated the promise of developing a novel approach to the treatment of AE
based on shikonin-mediated inhibiting of NF-κB/STAT3.
Arch Measurement Changes upon Biomimetic Oral Appliance Therapy for Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Al Mortadi Noor , Khassawneh Basheer , Khasawneh Lina , Alzoubi Karem H.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep disordered breathing. Patients who arrive at the dental office with a diagnosis of OSA are often treated with a mandibular advancement device (MAD). A biomimetic oral appliance therapy (BOAT) offers an alternative nonsurgical method, which can putatively resolve OSA by combining maxilla-mandibular correction and addressing craniofacial deficiencies.

Aim:

To determine whether maxilla-mandibular correction changes induced by BOAT produce a more favorable upper airway, which might result in a reduction in the severity of OSA.

Methods:

Patients who were diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA, 9 males, 8 females; age, mean (SD): 45.76(10.31), BMI mean (SD): 33.5(13.43), underwent BOAT therapy. Subjects had 2 months of follow-up visits, including examinations for progress and adjustment of the appliances. The mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) with no appliance in the mouth prior to BOAT and after treatment was recorded. The mid-palatal screw mechanism of the appliance was advanced once per week. The subjects were asked to wear the appliance for 10-12 hours/day and night. Paired T-Test was used to analyze the results.

Results:

The BOAT treatment enhanced upper airway function as the total AHI was significantly lower after treatment (P=0.019). Parameters that were significantly improved by the end of the treatment period included total AHI/Per hour of sleep (p=0.019), NREM-AHI (p=0.019), desaturation index (p=0.041), average SpO2 (p=0.088), and average O2 while in non-REM (p=0.043). Measurements of jaw changes were all statistically significant except lower 6-6 and lower 7-7. Additionally, a strong negative correlation between AHI and jaw changes was shown for upper 6-6 (p=-0.52), upper 7-7 (p=-0.48), and lower 3-3 (p=-0.42).

Conclusion:

The BOAT provides a useful form of therapy for the resolve of OSA. This study suggests that BOATS may be able to reduce the AHI to within normal limits. Still, long-term follow-up is needed to determine whether these subjects need a maintenance program to retain their initial upper airway improvement.
Analysis of Publication Activity and Research Trends in the Field of Lichen Planus: Pubmed Review
Authors: Khakimova Aida , Zolotarev Oleg
Published: November 2022

Background:

Currently, there is only one bibliometric study of lichen planus (LP) and oral lichen planus (OLP) in the literature, which examined the most cited articles in the Scopus database. Our study covered all published articles in the PubMed database for 140 years since, from 1880 to 2021. In addition to the classical bibliometric analysis, we conducted a lexical analysis of key terms to build research trends in the oral lichen planus.

Aims:

Analysis of publication activity in the field of lichen planus by countries, their economic status and population, as well as identification of concomitant diseases by lexical analysis of key terms extracted from headings and abstracts over the past 20 years.

Methods:

Information from the PubMed database was retrieved automatically based on a query for the period from 1880 to 2021, including the field: title, abstract, authors, and year of publication. A total of 8173 articles were retrieved. The selection of keywords and identifying trends in related terminology were done using expert and automatic methods.

An analysis of publication activity by country and socio-economic indicators was carried out. With the help of neural network analysis, the most characteristic terms related to LP were identified. Common terms were ranked by occurrence in titles and abstracts.

Results:

Publication activity in the field of LP and OLP has especially increased in the 21st century. The United States is the most productive country. China is a leader among countries with economies in transition. India is a leader among emerging economies. LP research is distributed worldwide. Finland ranks first in the number of publications per capita. The temporal dynamics of terminology are noted, including an increase in the number of terms used in any field of science (hereinafter referred to as general scientific terms).

Conclusion:

Publication activity in the field of LP and OLP has increased significantly in the 21st century. The highest publication activity was observed among authors from India, the USA and China. The leaders among economically developed countries are Italy, among the countries with economies in transition - China, and among the emerging economies - India. Based on lexical analysis of key terms, the following concomitant diseases were identified: carcinoma, leukoplakia, hepatitis, and lupus.
Discontinuation of specialist educational provision for children with DLD in the Netherlands: performance and predictors
Authors: Boerma Tessel , Wijnen Frank , Blom Elma
Published: November 2022

Achtergrond. Taalontwikkelingsstoornis (TOS) wordt gekenmerkt door grote heterogeniteit, maar er is nog weinig bekend over de variatie in specialistische onderwijsondersteuning voor kinderen met TOS. Dit longitudinale onderzoek bestudeerde de taal- en leesvaardigheid van kinderen met TOS bij wie onderwijsondersteuning op 7- of 8-jarige leeftijd beëindigd werd en kinderen met TOS bij wie dit werd voortgezet, ten opzichte van typisch ontwikkelende kinderen. Daarnaast onderzochten we talige, cognitieve en omgevingsfactoren als voorspellers voor de beëindiging van specialistische onderwijsondersteuning. 
Methode. Eentalige en meertalige kinderen met (n=120) en zonder (n=113) TOS namen deel aan het onderzoek. Gestandaardiseerde instrumentenwerden gebruikt om de proportie van kinderen per groep met zwakke taal- en leesvaardigheid op 7- of 8-jarige leeftijd te beschrijven. Binaire logistische regressie werd uitgevoerd om de beëindiging van specialistische onderwijsondersteuning te voorspellen. Voorspellers waren talige en cognitieve vaardigheden op 5- of 6-jarige leeftijd, groei in taalvaardigheid, onderwijsniveau van ouders en meertaligheid. 
Resultaten. Totaal had 25% van de kinderen met TOS geen specialistische onderwijsondersteuning meer op 7- of 8-jarige leeftijd. Meer meertaligen dan eentaligen behielden onderwijsondersteuning, hoewel dit verschil net niet significant was. Kinderen met TOS, zowel met als zonder onderwijsondersteuning, scoorden vaker zwak op de gestandaardiseerde instrumenten dan typisch ontwikkelende kinderen. Kinderen met TOS met specialistische onderwijsondersteuning presteerden vaker zwak dan kinderen met TOS zonder ondersteuning. Onderwijsniveau van ouders en morfologische vaardigheden, zowel op baseline als groei, voorspelden de beëindiging van onderwijsondersteuning. 
Conclusies en implicaties. Specialistische onderwijsondersteuning bleek voor veel kinderen met TOS binnen een relatief kort tijdsbestek beëindigd te zijn. Hoewel deze kinderen sterker presteerden dan leeftijdsgenoten met TOS die ondersteuning behielden, was hun taal- en leesvaardigheid vaak zwak. Deze groep blijft dus kwetsbaar en behoeft aandacht. Vervolgonderzoek naar besluitvorming omtrent specialistische onderwijsondersteuning is nodig om de rol van onderwijsniveau van ouders en morfologische vaardigheden in de beëindiging van ondersteuning te begrijpen.
Yes or No: How children combine gestures and speech to express honest and deceiving attitude
Authors: Swerts Marc , Gu Yan , Boerrigter Tarissa
Published: November 2022

This study looks into children’s use of head gestures to express their appreciation for objects,comparing cases in which the gestures match or do not match their true attitude.Forty-four children aged 5 to 8 years old were asked to tell an experimenter whether ornot they would like to have shown objects as presents for their birthday. In a first round,children were not given any additional instructions, so that their feedback matched theirgenuine attitude towards the objects. In a second round, they were asked to give feedbackin a way that was the opposite of what they felt. Analyses of their verbal reactionsand response delays suggest that the youngest children found it harder to produce incongruent feedback. While the relative use of head gestures decreases with age, children in all age groups produce more head gestures in the congruent condition, and produce more shaking gestures.Keywords: head gestures, signs of attitude, child development.
The Receptivity to Safety-Related Mobile Apps Among Commercial Fishing Captains: Descriptive Exploratory Study
Authors: Bulzacchelli Maria T , Bellantoni Jenna M , McCue Leigh , Dzugan Jerry
Published: November 2022

Background

Mobile apps addressing a variety of workplace safety issues have proliferated over the last decade as mobile technology has advanced and smartphone ownership has increased. Workplace safety interventions are often designed for a specific work site. However, some of the most dangerous jobs are ones in which workers frequently change field locations, such as commercial fishing. Mobile apps may be particularly suitable for delivering safety interventions to these workers.

Objective

We sought to gauge the potential for using mobile apps to deliver safety interventions to commercial fishing workers. The purpose of this paper is to describe how fishermen use their mobile devices during fishing operations and identify any mobile apps they already use for safety.

Methods

Participants comprised commercial fishing captains who already owned an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. They completed a questionnaire that asked about their current mobile device use and their use of safety-related mobile apps, in addition to questions about their fishing operations. We performed descriptive analyses of the data.

Results

A total of 61 participants completed the questionnaire. The most common types of mobile devices participants reported owning were iPhones (n=36, 59%) and Android phones (n=24, 39%). Most participants (n=53, 87%) reported using their mobile device for both work and personal purposes, including while out at sea (n=52, 85%). Over half of the participants reported that they had either safety-related apps (n=17, 28%) or apps that help them with their work (n=35, 57%). The types of apps most frequently mentioned were apps for weather, wind, tides, and navigation.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that some commercial fishing captains who own a mobile device are receptive to using safety-related apps for work. Apps that help avoid hazards by monitoring environmental conditions and apps optimized for use on smartphones may be most likely to be adopted and used. Overall, these results suggest that mobile apps are a promising avenue for improving safety among workers in commercial fishing and similar occupations.
Realizing the Potential of Computer-Assisted Surgery by Embedding Digital Twin Technology
Authors: Qin Jiaxin , Wu Jian
Published: November 2022

The value of virtual world and digital phenotyping has been demonstrated in several fields, and their applications in the field of surgery are worthy of attention and exploration. This viewpoint describes the necessity and approach to understanding the deeper potential of computer-assisted surgery through interaction and symbiosis between virtual and real spaces. We propose to embed digital twin technology into all aspects of computer-assisted surgery rather than just the surgical object and further apply it to the whole process from patient treatment to recovery. A more personalized, precise, and predictable surgery is our vision.
Fear of COVID-19 and Prevention Behaviors: Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis
Authors: Anderson Katherine M , Stockman Jamila K
Published: November 2022

Background

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought forth conversations about effective behavior change models for increasing prevention behavior, ranging from wearing masks in public to physical distancing. Among the considered behavior change techniques is the use of fear appeals, through which a negative possible outcome is emphasized to invoke fear, which in turn may promote prevention behaviors to counter the likelihood of the negative outcome. Although fear is hypothesized as health promoting in some theories of health behavior, little research has rigorously assessed the relationship.

Objective

In our exploratory analyses, we aim to examine the association, including directionality of the association between fear of COVID-19 and COVID-19 prevention behaviors across 2 time points during the early COVID-19 pandemic among a sample of US women.

Methods

The COPE study, a web-based survey of US women’s COVID-19 experiences, was deployed in May-June 2020 (time 1) with follow-up in December 2020-January 2021 (time 2; n=200). Demographic characteristics as well as fear of COVID-19 and COVID-19 prevention behaviors (eg, staying home except for essential activities, physical distancing in public, and masking in public) were measured. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were used to characterize COVID-19 prevention behaviors and fear of COVID-19 among participants. Cross-lagged panel analysis, a type of structural equation modeling that assesses directionality of temporal associations, was used to understand relationships, if any, between variables of interest.

Results

We found cross-sectional associations between fear of COVID-19 and staying home and physical distancing, as well as temporal associations between fear at time 1 and time 2 and prevention behaviors at time 1 and time 2. However, results of the cross-lagged panel analysis indicated no cross-lagged temporal relationships between fear of COVID-19 and COVID-19 prevention behaviors 6 months apart.

Conclusions

Fear of COVID-19 did not appear to predict COVID-19 prevention behaviors 6 months after initial measurements among the sample of women recruited for our study. Future research should rigorously test these associations longitudinally, and alternative methods of public health prevention promotion should be considered.
International Collaboration to Develop a Remote Monitoring Web App for COVID-19 Patients in Armenia: Design and Development With Agile Methodology
Authors: Sikder Abu , Dickhoner James , Kysh Lynn , Musheghyan Lusine , Shekherdimian Shant , Levine Barry , Espinoza Juan
Published: November 2022

Background

COVID-19 has led to over 500 million cases and 6.2 million deaths around the world. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Armenia face unique infrastructure, financial, and capacity challenges that in many cases result in worse outcomes. Health care facilities across Armenia experienced a shortage of resources, including hospital beds and oxygen, which was further exacerbated by the war with neighboring Azerbaijan. Without a framework for home-based care, health care facilities were severely strained by COVID-19 patients who had prolonged oxygen requirements but were otherwise clinically stable.

Objective

This paper describes our approach to establishing an international collaboration to develop a web app to support home monitoring of patients with COVID-19 with persistent oxygen requirements.

Methods

The app was developed using a rapid, coordinated, and collaborative approach involving an international group of clinicians, developers, and collaborators. Health screening, monitoring, and discharge forms were developed into a lightweight OpenMRS web app and customized for the local Armenian context.

Results

The software was designed and developed over 2 months using human-centered design and agile sprints. Once live, 5087 patient records were created for 439 unique patients.

Conclusions

This project suggests a promising framework for designing and implementing remote monitoring programs in LMICs, despite pandemic and geopolitical challenges.
Ethics of Medical Archival Internet Research Data (Preprint)
Authors: Rashi Tsuriel , Yom-Tov Elad
Published: November 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

Medical research based on internet archive data, which in some ways is quite different from other data-based studies, is becoming more and more common. Despite its uniqueness and the challenges that characterize it, clear ethical rules designed to guide practitioners in this field have not yet been written. This article points to the lacuna that exists in legal and ethical texts today and offers an ethically balancing alternative. Among other features, the balance is based on the famous three laws of robotics by Asimov and a series of values, including transparency, accountability, fairness, and privacy.
Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, and Perceived Stigma regarding Tuberculosis among Healthcare Workers in Jordan (Preprint)
Authors: Yousef Hind , Wilson Nevin , Khader Yousef , Al Shatnawi Ayah , Abaza Hiba , Satyanarayana Srinath
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Assessing healthcare workers’ (HCWs) TB- related knowledge, attitudes, and practices is essential for strengthening the TB prevention and control program. This study aimed to assess TB related knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and practices regarding TB among HCWs delivering TB services in Jordan and assess their level of satisfaction.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess TB related knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and practices regarding TB among HCWs delivering TB services in Jordan and assess their level of satisfaction.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 93 HCWs who provide healthcare services to TB patients in 9 TB centers in four governorates in Jordan during the period of June-November 2021. The study questionnaire included information on demographics, TB-related knowledge, attitudes, practices, perceived stigma, and job satisfaction.

RESULTS

Almost half (45.4%) of physicians, 74% of nurses, and 76.4% of other HCWs had low to moderate TB-related knowledge score. The majority of HCWs (100% of physicians, 92.6% of nurses, and 93.5% of other HCWs) had a positive attitude toward TB and TB patients. The HCWs’ TB-related self-reported practices were good, fair and poor in 38.7%, 29.0% and 32.3% of HCWs, respectively. Almost one fifth of HCWs reported that they have felt stigmatized because of their work around interacting with TB patients. The mean (SD) HCWs’ job satisfaction score on 100 scale was 21.6 (34.8) for physicians, 42.6 (37.2) for nurses, and 47.7 (38.4) for other HCWs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified important knowledge and practice gaps related to TB among HCWs. Based on those gaps, HCWs should receive high quality, tailored, and regular training. Proper training on the clinical guidelines and on the existing infection prevention and control guidelines is of a paramount importance. Follow up on-job supportive supervisory visits will help to ensure improvement of practices.