bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between healthy sleep patterns and depressive trajectories among college students: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Dan Zhang , Qu Yang , Zhai Shuang , Li Tingting , Xie Yang , Tao Shuman , Zou Liwei , Tao Fangbiao , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: October 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to identify different develpment trajectories of depression symptoms during college period, and prospectively investigate the associations healthy sleep patterns with trajectories of depression symptoms among college students from freshman through junior year.
Methods: A total of 999 participants from the College Student Behavior and Health Cohort Study were included between April 2019 and June 2021. Healthy sleep patterns were defined by chronotype, sleep duration, insomnia, snoring, and daytime sleepiness. Latent growth curve model was used to identify trajectories of depression symptoms. Then binary logistic regression was used to examine association of the healthy sleep patterns with these trajectories.
Results:In baseline survey, we found that a total of 100 (10.0%) participants had healthy sleep patterns’score equal to 5. Then, we used 5 surveys’data to identify 2 distinct trajectories of depression symptoms during college (decreasing: 82.5%; increasing: 17.5%). The healthy sleep patterns were associated with these trajectories, the better healthy sleep patterns significantly decrease the risk of increasing trajectories of depression symptoms in males (OR: 0.72, 95%CI: 0.54~0.97, P=0.031). Moreover, we found out that the healthy sleep patterns of college students can predict the future depressive symptoms in this study (all P<0.001).
Conclusion:Our findings indicate that the better healthy sleep patterns may significantly decrease the risk of increasing trajectory of depression symptoms only in male college students. The results speak to a need for college student with depression symptoms to identify and address sleep problems when present, which could prevent or reduce depression detriments in later life.
Protective effects of the postbiotic Lactobacillus plantarum MD35 on bone loss in an ovariectomized mice model
Authors: Myeong Ju-Yeong , Jung Hye-Yeon , Chae Hyo-Seok , Cho Hyang Hyun , Kim Don-Kyu , Jang You-Jee , Park Jae-Il
Published: October 2022

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is caused by estrogen deficiency; it impairs the homeostatic balance of the bone, resulting in bone loss owing to increased osteoclastic resorption without a corresponding increase in osteoblastic activity. Postbiotics have several pharmaceutical properties, including anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-osteoporotic activities. However, the beneficial effects of postbiotic MD35 of Lactobacillus plantarum on bone have not been studied. In this study, we demonstrated that the postbiotic Lactobacillus plantarum MD35, isolated from young radish water kimchi influenced osteoclast differentiation in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophage (BMM) culture. In addition, it was effective in estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) mice, an animal model of postmenopausal osteoporosis. In BMM cells, postbiotic MD35 inhibited the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation by significantly suppressing resorption activity and downregulating the expression of RANKL-mediated osteoclast-related genes; this was achieved by attenuating the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinase. In the animal model, the oral administration of postbiotic MD35 remarkably improved OVX-induced trabecular bone loss and alleviated the destruction of femoral plate growth. Therefore, postbiotic MD35 could be a potential therapeutic candidate for postmenopausal osteoporosis by suppressing osteoclastogenesis through the regulation of osteoclast-related molecular mechanisms.
Are percentages of the one-repetition maximum (1-RM) suitable for prescribing resistance exercise in cancer survivors? - Comparability and prediction accuracy of frequently used 1-RM testing procedures
Authors: Schneider Justine , Schlüter Kathrin , Rosenberger Friederike , Wiskemann Joachim
Published: October 2022

Purpose
To prescribe resistance training (RT) using percentages of (%) maximal strength (Smax), it is prerequisite that (I) methods for testing Smax are valid and (II) the relationship between %Smax and the corresponding number of repetitions (NOR) is known. This has never been investigated in cancer survivors (CS) and was the purpose of the present study.
Methods
Twenty breast (58 ± 10y) and 20 prostate CS (68 ± 6y), 3.6 ± 2.4 months after primary therapy, completed one one-repetition maximum (1-RM) test, one hypothetical 1-RM (h1-RM) test and three RT sessions (three sets at six different strength machines (SM)). H1-RM was calculated using two commonly used equations (after Brzycki and Epley), resulting in three Smax values for each SM, which were then compared to each other (1-RM as a reference). Each RT session was performed at a different intensity (92%, 69% and 47% of 1-RM/h1-RM). CS performed repetitions to fatigue and the resulting NOR were compared to the predicted NOR.
Results
Smax values differed between 1-RM and h1-RM values for each SM and between h1-RM values for some SM. Differences between performed and predicted NOR occurred among all intensities and methods.
Conclusion
Different strength tests yield different results for Smax and a certain %1-RM/h1-RM does not necessarily correspond to a specific NOR in all individuals, which questions the use of (I) h1-RM tests for determining Smax and (II) prescribing RT intensities based on %1-RM/h1-RM which is still the most common method used for RT intensity prescription in healthy individuals and patient populations, including CS.
Evaluation of Treatment Patterns, Healthcare Resource Utilization and Cost of Illness for Sickle Cell Disease in Ghana: A Private Medical Insurance Claims Database Study
Authors: Marfo Kwaku , Dei-Adomakoh Yvonne , Segbefia Catherine , Dwomoh Duah , Edgal Adeline , Ampah Nancy , Ramachandrachar Badarinath , Subramanyam Kumaresan , Natarajan Ashok , Egbujo Olufolake , Ataga Kenneth
Published: October 2022

Background Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for nearly 75% of the global disease burden. The current analysis evaluated patient characteristics, treatment patterns, healthcare resource utilization and associated costs in patients with SCD, based on a Private Medical Insurance Database in Ghana. Methods This retrospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted using a e-claims database from Ghana (01 January 2015 to 31 March 2021). Patients were stratified by age (0 month to < 2 years, ≥ 2 years to ˂6 years, ≥ 6 years to < 12 years, ≥ 12 years to < 16 years; ≥16 years) and vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) (< 1, ≥ 1 to < 3, and ≥ 3 per year). Results The study included 2,863 patients (mean age: 20.1 years; Min age: 0; Max age: 83; females 56.1%). Overall, 52.2% (n = 1,495) of SCD patients were ≥ 16 years and 17.0% (n = 486) were in the ≥ 2 to ˂6-years age group. The majority of patients aged ≥ 16 years (62.5%) in the database did not have reported VOC episodes while 35.9% of patients had 1 to 3 VOC episodes per year during the follow-up period. Consultation-based prevalence of SCD was 0.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0%-1.3%] − 1.4% [CI: 0.6%-2.2%]. Malaria, upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) and sepsis were the common complications of SCD. Analgesics were the most frequently prescribed medications followed by anti-infectives, hematinics, and antimalarials. SCD patients had median cost incurred for consultation/hospital services of $11.3 (Interquartile range [IQR] $6.2 - $27.2). For patients with VOC, maximum median cost was incurred for medications ($10.9 [IQR $5.0-$32.6]). Overall median healthcare cost was highest for individuals with ≥ 3 VOCs per year ($166.8 [IQR $70.3-$223.5]). Conclusion SCD imposes a significant healthcare burden in Ghana, especially in patients with VOC. There is a need for reimbursed treatment options that could reduce the long-term burden associated with SCD and VOC.
Introducing or removing heparan sulfate binding sites does not alter brain uptake of the blood-brain barrier shuttle scFv8D3
Authors: Rosa Andres de la , Metzendorf Nicole G. , Morrison Jamie I. , Faresjö Rebecca , Rofo Fadi , Petrovic Alex , O’Callaghan Paul , Syvänen Stina , Hultqvist Greta
Published: October 2022

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) greatly limits the delivery of protein-based drugs into the brain and is a major obstacle for the treatment of brain disorders. Targeting the transferrin receptor (TfR) is a strategy for transporting protein-based drugs into the brain, which can be utilized by using TfR-binding BBB transporters, such as the TfR-binding antibody 8D3. In this current study, we investigated if binding to heparan sulfate (HS) contributes to the brain uptake of a single chain fragment variable of 8D3 (scFv8D3). We designed and produced a scFv8D3 mutant, engineered with additional HS binding sites, HS(+)scFv8D3, to assess whether increased HS binding would improve brain uptake. Additionally, a mutant with a reduced number of HS binding sites, HS(-)scFv8D3, was also engineered to see if reducing the HS binding sites could also affect brain uptake. Heparin column chromatography showed that only the HS(+)scFv8D3 mutant bound HS in the experimental conditions.Ex vivoresults showed that the brain uptake was unaffected by the introduction or removal of HS binding sites, which indicates that scFv8D3 is not dependent on the HS binding sites for brain uptake. Conversely, introducing HS binding sites to scFv8D3 decreased its renal excretion while removing them had the opposite effect.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the SAUR gene family in foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.)
Authors: Ma Xiaoqian , Dai Shutao , Qin Na , Zhu Cancan , Qin Jiafan , Li Junxia
Published: October 2022

Background
Auxin performs important functions in plant growth and development processes, as well as abiotic stress. Small auxin-up RNA (SAUR) is the largest gene family of auxin-responsive factors. However, the knowledge of the SAUR gene family in foxtail millet is largely obscure.
Results
In the current study, 72 SiSAUR genes were identified and renamed according to their chromosomal distribution in the foxtail millet genome. These SiSAUR genes were unevenly distributed on nine chromosomes and were classified into three groups through phylogenetic tree analysis. Most of the SiSAUR members from the same group showed similar gene structure and motif composition characteristics. Analysis of cis-acting elements showed that many hormone and stress response elements were identified in the promoter region of SiSAURs. Gene replication analysis revealed that many SiSAUR genes were derived from gene duplication events. We also found that the expression of 10 SiSAURs was induced by abiotic stress and exogenous hormones, which indicated that SiSAUR genes may participated in complex physiological processes.
Conclusions
Overall, these results will be valuable for further studies on the biological role of SAUR genes in foxtail development and response to stress conditions and may shed light on the improvement of the genetic breeding of foxtail millet.
Automated Early-stage Enterobius vermicularis diagnosis using segmentation model applied to the deep learning method
Authors: Mirzaei Omid , Guler Emrah , Akkaya Nurullah , Bilgehan Bülent , Suer Kaya
Published: October 2022

Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) infectious disease is small in size and needs careful analysis. This disease is usually seen in children and causes serious damage if early signs are not detected. Enterobius vermicularis is one of the most common helminth infections in the world. Humans are the only natural host of this parasitic disease. living in crowded environments is a risk factor for transmission. In this study, the deep learning method was applied to the small-scale pinworm disease that could be overlooked with a bare eye examination. The deep learning method(ResU-Net and U-Net) is trained with 365 Images to have high accuracy detection of the infection. The method was tested with 56 Images and the highest achievement dice score was 0.95%. This work has a unique future based on a segmentation mask that produces immediate visualization. The method is superior to the existing models. The segmentation mask method produces less error compared with the classical methods and uses less human resources, time and cost.
Porous activated carbon derived from natural waste honeycomb and paper wasp hive and its application in quasi-solid-state supercapacitor
Authors: Kumar Sushant , Nath Gaurav , Singh Pramod K. , Yahya M. Z.A , Savilov Serguei V. , Kakroo Sunanda , farid Aalia , Khan Marium , Dhapola Pawan Singh , Singh Abhimanyu , Singh Manoj K.
Published: October 2022

Porous activated carbons are derived from natural waste honeycomb (HC) and paper wasps hive (PW) via carbonization and chemical activation. Both the activated carbons are characterized using BET, SEM, XRD, and Raman studies. Both of them offered approximately the same BET surface area, but different pore structure confirmed by SEM images. The HC-based activated carbon offers a higher degree of disorder compared to PWAC which is confirmed by Raman studies. Two EDLC cells are fabricated using ionic liquid incorporated GPE (PVdF-HFP/ EMImTCM) and activated carbons electrodes (HCAC and PWAC). The EDLC cells are characterized using electrochemical Impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques. The PWAC-based EDLC cell (Cell#2) has been offered large specific capacitance ~ 88 F g− 1in comparison to HCAC- based EDLC cell (Cell#1) ~ 66 F g− 1. Initial performance of Cell#2 is high due to the micropore nature of PW-based activated carbon as compared to HC-based activated carbon, and its value decreases after certain cycles confirmed by cycling tests. The Cell#1 (HCAC) is offered high-rate performance as compared to Cell#2 (PWAC) which is revealed by EIS studies. It is further confirmed by CV studies that CV profiles of Cell#1 are more rectangular as compared to Cell#2. The voltage range of both cells are optimized and found to be 1.0 V. The cycle performance of both cells was tested and found that Cell#1 is more stable (~ 78% of initial capacitance) as compared to Cell#2 in 2000 cycles.
Arthroscopic treatment of unstable scaphoid fracture and nonunion with two headless compression screws and distal radius bone graft
Authors: Cheng Cong , Jiang Zongyuan , Sun Haoran , Hu Jiaping , Ouyang Yanggang
Published: October 2022

Background
The treatment of unstable scaphoid fracture and nonunion remains a challenging problem for hand surgeons. Minimally invasive treatment have become the preferred method of treatment. We present an arthroscopic technique with two headless compression screws (HCS) fixation and distal radius bone grafting for the treatment of unstable scaphoid fracture and nonunion, aiming to evaluate its clinical and radiological outcomes.
Purpose
This study aims to introduce the arthroscopic technique with two headless compression screws fixation and distal radius bone grafting for the treatment of unstable scaphoid fracture and nonunion, aiming to evaluate its clinical and radiological outcomes.
Methods
It was a retrospective study. From January 2019 to February 2021, a total of 23 patients were included in the current study. Among them, 13 patients with unstable scaphoid fracture underwent arthroscopic treatment with two HCS; 10 patients with scaphoid nonunion underwent arthroscopic treatment with two HCS and a distal radius bone graft. The range of motion (ROM) of the wrist, visual analog scale (VAS), grip strength, the Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS), the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, and the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score were collected at preoperatively and the final follow-up. a Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the wrist was performed on each patient to analyzed for union and postoperative osteoarthritis during the follow-up period.
Results
Significant improvement was only observed in wrist extension. Clinical outcomes including grip strength, VAS pain score, MMWS, PRWE score, and DASH score were significantly improved at final follow-up. In the subgroup analysis, both patients stabilized with either two HCS or a distal radius bone graft and two HCS have improved clinical outcomes after surgery, respectively. All patients achieved union. No screw fixation failure occurred, and no other postoperative complication was observed in any of the patients.
Conclusions
The arthroscopic technique with two HCS fixation and distal radius bone grafting is a reliable and effective technique for the treatment of unstable scaphoid fracture and nonunion, providing satisfactory union rates and clinical outcomes.
Molecular and Structural Comparisons of C3 Cotyledons with C4 Leaves in Species of Salsoloideae (Chenopodiaceae)
Authors: Ceylan Faik , Cömertpay Sabahattin , Kocacinar Ferit
Published: October 2022

C4plants had evolved from C3as a response to decreasing atmospheric CO2levels and conditions promoting photorespiration. C4plants evolved from C3ancestors at least in more than 60 independent lineages of angiosperms for suppressing of photorespiration.Salsola,PetrosimoniaandCyathobasisgenera of Salsoloideae subfamily contain some species with C3cotyledons followed by C4leaves. The aim of this study was to compare the biochemical and structural differences between C3cotyledons and C4leaves in these genera. The results showed that there were dorsiventral C3cotyledons inSalsola grandisandCyathobasis fruticulosa, while salsoloid type C4Kranz anatomy was present in mature leaves.Petrosimonia nigdeensishad isobilateral C3cotyledons and a salsoloid type C4leaves. Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) and pyruvate orthophosphate dikinase (PPDK) enzymes were absent or sparse in cotyledons of these species, whereas they were abundant in their C4leaves. Glycolate oxidase (GOX) and glycine decarboxylase- H subunit (GDC-H) were generally higher in cotyledons than leaves. Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) enzyme content was lower in C4leaves compared to C3cotyledons. Transcript levels of these enzymes were generally consistent with their protein content except for GOX inS. grandisandS. tragus, and glycine decarboxylase complex (GDC) inS. tragus. As a result, we demonstrate that not only the protein amounts and transcript levels of the enzymes required in C4pathway increased but also the levels of C3and photorespiratory enzymes were lowered during transition from C3cotyledons into C4leaves. These results are important in terms of shedding light on understanding of evolutionary transition from C3to C4biochemical pathway in a single plant and contributing to C4engineering.
The Effectiveness of Atorvastatin for the Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Setiawan Budi , Budianto Widi , Sukarnowati Tri Wahyu , Rizky Daniel , Pangarsa Eko Adhi , Santosa Damai , Sudoyo Aru Wisaksono , Winarni Tri Indah , Riwanto Ignatius , Setiabudy Rahajuningsih Dharma , Suharti Catharina
Published: October 2022

Background: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication in cancer. Although thromboprophylaxis in cancer patients is recommended by the guidelines, clinicians’ use of thromboprophylaxis remains limited due to cost, bleeding complications, and reluctance to give injectable anticoagulants. Inflammation plays essential roles in the pathogenesis of cancer-associated thrombosis. Owing to its ability to decrease proinflammatory cytokines, statins have anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, statins can be possibly utilized as thromboprophylaxis therapy in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of atorvastatin and rivaroxaban for DVT prevention in high-risk thrombosis patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
Methods: Double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving cancer patients with high-risk of thrombosis undergoing chemotherapy. We randomly assigned patients without deep-vein thrombosis at screening to receive atorvastatin 20 mg or rivaroxaban 10 mg daily for up to 90 days. Doppler ultrasonography was performed 90 days following chemotherapy to diagnose DVT. Average cost-effectiveness analysis was performed to analyze the cost of atorvastatin compared to rivaroxaban
Results: Of the eighty six patients who underwent randomization, primary efficacy end point was observed in 1 of 42 patients (2.3%) in the atorvastatin group and in 1 of 44 (2.2%) in the rivaroxaban group (Odds Ratio [OR], 0.953; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.240 to 3.971; p = 1.000). There was a significant difference in the incidence of major bleeding, 2 of 42 patients (4.8%) in the atorvastatin group and 12 of 44 (27.3%) in the rivaroxaban group (OR, 0.257; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.94; p=0.007). The average cost-effectiveness ratio of using atorvastatin was lower than that of rivaroxaban.
Conclusion:
Atorvastatin did not differ significantly from rivaroxaban in reducing the incidence of DVT, lower bleeding risk, and cost-effectiveness for thromboprophylaxis in high-risk thrombosis patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
Trial Registration
ISRCTN39181.
Does DFT work for H­­2O and H2S dimers?
Authors: Sapkota Dhurba , Shrestha Pitamber , Parajuli Rajendra
Published: October 2022

Water and hydrogen sulfide dimers have been studied with several different density functional theory (DFT) methods using a 6-311 + + G(d, p) basis set. Geometries, energies, and QTAIM parameters were computed for different functionals and the values were compared with otherab initioand experimental results available in the literature.
HTSE: Hierarchical Time-Surface Model for Temporal Knowledge Graph Embedding
Authors: Jin Langjunqing , Zhao Feng , Jin Hai
Published: October 2022

Representation learning based on temporal knowledge graphs (TKGs) has attracted widespread interest, and TKG embeddings express time entity and relation tokens and exhibit strong dynamics. Despite the significance of the dynamics and the persistent updates in TKGs, most studies have been devoted to static knowledge graphs. Moreover, previous temporal works ignored the semantic hierarchies observed in knowledge modelling cases, which are common in real-world applications. Inaccurate semantic expressions caused by incomplete projections might not capture complex topological structures very well. To solve this problem, a novel hierarchical time-surface embedding (HTSE) model is proposed for the representation learning of entities, relations and time. Specifically, a unified relation-oriented hierarchical space aims to distinguish relations at different semantic levels of a hierarchy , and entities can naturally reflect the corresponding hierarchy. Then, a time surface aims to enhance the temporal characteristics, and quadruples are learned through exponential mapping and tangent planes in the time surface. According to extensive experiments, HTSE can achieve remarkable performance on five benchmark datasets, outperforming baseline models for time scope prediction, temporal link prediction and hierarchical relation embedding tasks. Furthermore, the qualitative analysis is used to demonstrate the explainable strategy for hierarchical embeddings and their significance in TKGs.
Posterior Intra-articular Fixation Stabilizes Both Primary and Secondary Sacroiliac Joints: A Cadaveric Study and Comparison to Lateral Trans-articular Fixation Literature
Authors: Sayed Dawood , Amirdelfan Kasra , Hunter Corey , Raji Oluwatodimu Richard
Published: October 2022

Background
Posterior and lateral techniques have been described as approaches to sacroiliac joint arthrodesis. The purpose of this study was to compare the stabilizing effects of a novel posterior stabilization implant and technique to a previously published lateral approach in a cadaveric multidirectional bending model. We hypothesized that both approaches would have an equivalent stabilizing effect in flexion-extension, and that the posterior approach would exhibit better performance in lateral bending and axial rotation. We further hypothesized that unilateral and bilateral posterior fixation would stabilize both the primary and secondary joints.
Methods
Ranges of Motion (RoMs) of six cadaveric sacroiliac joints were evaluated by an optical tracking system, in a multidirectional flexibility pure moment model, between ± 7.5 Nm applied moment in flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation under intact, unilateral fixation, and bilateral fixation conditions.
Results
Intact RoMs were equivalent between both samples. Unilateral posterior intra-articular fixation reduced the RoMs of both primary and secondary joints in all loading planes (flexion-extension RoM by 45%, lateral bending RoM by 47%, and axial RoM by 33%), and bilateral fixation maintained this stabilizing effect in both joints (flexion-extension at 48%, in lateral bending at 53%, and in axial rotation at 42%). Only bilateral lateral trans-articular fixation reduced mean RoM of both primary and secondary sacroiliac joints, and only under flexion-extension loads (60%).
Conclusion
During flexion-extension, the posterior approach is equivalent to the lateral approach; while producing superior stabilization during lateral bend, and axial rotation.
Effectiveness of substantial shortening of the endotracheal tube for decreasing airway resistance and increasing tidal volume during pressure-controlled ventilation in pediatric patients: a prospective observational study
Authors: Takahashi Kazuhiro , Toyama Hiroaki , Kubo Ryosuke , Yoshida Norifumi , Ejima Yutaka , Kikuchi Kenji , Ishikawa Takuji , Yamauchi Masanori
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Anesthesiologists often shorten endotracheal tubes (ETTs) because the resistance of the ETT (RETT) is believed to be a major contributor to total airway resistance (Rtotal) in children intubated with ETTs of smaller inner diameter. However, the effectiveness of ETT shortening for mechanical ventilation in the clinical setting has not been reported. In this work, we performed a prospective clinical study and a laboratory experiment to assess the effectiveness of shortening a cuffed ETT for increasing tidal volume (TV) and decreasing Rtotal during constant pressure-controlled ventilation, and to estimate the RETT/Rtotal ratio in children.
Method: In anesthetized children in a constant pressure-controlled ventilation setting, TV and Rtotal were measured with a pneumotachometer before and after shortening a cuffed ETT. The pressure gradient curves for the original length, shortened length, and the slip joint alone of the ETT were measured in vitro to determine the RETT/Rtotal ratio.
Results: The clinical study included 22 children. The median ETT percent shortening was 21.7%. Median Rtotal was decreased from 26 to 24 cmH2O/L/s, and median TV was increased by 6% after ETT shortening. Additionally, approximately 40% of the pressure gradient across the ETT at its original length was generated by the slip joint. Median RETT and median RETT/Rtotal before ETT shortening were calculated as 17.7 cmH2O/L/s and 0.69, respectively.
Conclusions: The increase in TV caused by ETT shortening was small because the resistance of the slip joint was very large, limiting the effectiveness of ETT shortening.
A novel holding process for forming boxes by optimizing effect of BHF distribution
Authors: Zhang Hongsheng , Qin Siji
Published: October 2022

This research is aimed to adjust blank holder force (BHF) in different flange areas to eliminate wrinkles and cracks on rectangular box deep drawing product. The calculating formulae of the critical BHF in the flange area are derived by using the energy method and a wrinkle model parameter m effect on the critical BHF by is analyzed. It's shown that the critical BHF decreases with decreasing m as the same wrinkle height. Steel sheet of SPCC grade, thickness of 0.6 mm was used in the finite element simulation study. It's shown that the segmental blank holder technique is better than the conventional one. Finally, compared to the application of the single blank holder, BHF can be quite effective for preventing the occurrence of cracking and increasing the formability of deep drawing.
An overview of pharmacotherapy in the management of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at a public hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Maniram Jennal , Oosthuizen Frasia , Karrim Saira B.S
Published: October 2022

Background The pharmacological management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remains a challenge due to limited effective treatment options, the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of only two drugs, and the absence of drugs that can cure the core symptoms. In South Africa, little is known about the role of pharmacotherapy in the management of children diagnosed with ASD. This study presents an overview of prescribing patterns and provides insight into the current management practice for the core symptoms and comorbidities of ASD in children. Method A quantitative retrospective study was conducted at a public hospital in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa by reviewing patient files of children diagnosed with ASD and meeting the inclusion criteria for the study. A descriptive analysis of data was done to identify treatment trends and patient therapeutic outcomes. Results A total of 181 children met the inclusion criteria of the study. Risperidone was the most frequently prescribed drug (88%) for the management of comorbidities and/or core symptoms of ASD. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (54%), irritability or aggression (25%), and sleep dysregulation (22%) were frequent ASD comorbidities that warranted pharmacotherapy. Drugs prescribed to manage ASD comorbidities included methylphenidate, melatonin, sodium valproate, risperidone, oxybutynin, carbamazepine, and others. Except for risperidone, there were no additional drugs that targeted the core symptoms of ASD. Non-pharmacological therapies were often used collaboratively with medication to manage ASD symptoms. The use of psychotropic drug combinations was influenced by the age and gender of a child. In 41% of patients, there were improvements in their symptoms (comorbidities and/or core symptoms) which indicated a positive response to the treatment plan. Conclusion Drugs played a prominent role in managing the comorbidities of ASD, however, pharmaco-therapeutic options for the management of ASD core symptoms are limited. As the availability and use of additional effective drugs (including vitamin, mineral, and dietary supplements) for the management of ASD increases, improved therapeutic outcomes for children with ASD in South Africa could be achievable.
Evaluation of Serum Kidney Injury Markers FABP1, NGAL, Cystatin C and the Inflammatory Cytokine IL-18 in the Detection of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) Associated Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Authors: Saha Rohini , Sharma Samriddhi , Mondal Antara , Sati Hem Chandra , Khan Maroof Ahmad , Mahajan Sandeep , Datta Sudip , . Shalimar , Acharya Pragyan
Published: October 2022

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a complication of liver cirrhosis which is driven by dysfunctional innate immune activation and multiple organ failure. In ACLF, short-term mortality (28-day mortality) is ~50%. The risk of mortality in ACLF increases significantly with the occurrence of AKI. Hence, early detection and prevention of AKI is a priority for the management of ACLF patients. Here we show, that commonly used serum biomarkers of AKI i.e. FABP1, NGAL and Cystatin C, as well as a marker of inflammation IL-18, are not effective at discriminating between ACLF patients having AKI (ACLF-AKI) and ACLF patients without AKI (ACLF no-AKI). However, IL-18, which is a measure of inflammation, is able to predict mortality in ACLF patients and, Cystatin C is able to discriminate between ACLF-AKI and non-liver AKI. Our results demonstrate that the biomarkers of renal injury which might be effective in other etiologies of AKI may not be effective in early detection of ACLF associated AKI possibly suggesting a different pathomechanism of AKI in ACLF. We anticipate that this study will provide impetus to biomarker discovery studies towards early detection of AKI in ACLF patients.
The Teacher’s Methodical Competencies in the Development of Students with Disabilities of Creative Abilities Based on the Content of the Subject
Authors:   Armavir State Pedagogical University, Elena A. Dyakova , Olga A. Nemykh ,   Armavir State Pedagogical University, Natalya A. Shermadina ,   Armavir State Pedagogical University
Published: October 2022

The requirement of socialization of children with disabilities, implemented by schools of the Russian Federation, involves teaching such children in regular classes to provide opportunities for a variety of contacts and communications with peers. However, the area of their creative abilities and giftedness development remains an unexplored and rarely realized aspect of the socialization of such children. The analysis of the available scientific and methodological studies shows that almost in the absolute majority all of them are devoted to the development of artistic, musical abilities, applied creativity, etc. The modern educational environment makes available resources for the intellectual development of children with disabilities, providing them with the same opportunities as children without restrictions (with the exception of children with developmental delay). Federal Law No. 273 suggests doing this as part of additional education, the potential of the process of studying subjects is practically not used. One of the reasons is the insufficient number of scientific and methodological studies on the development, including intellectual giftedness in children with disabilities, which has its own specifics. Each subject has significant potential for this, but the necessary methodological materials and recommendations have not been developed. The authors discuss the theoretical foundations of the teachers’ methodological competencies formation in the organization of the development of students with disabilities (children with visual impairments) creative abilities based on the content of the subject. The methods used are analysis of pedagogical and methodological sources; modeling; questioning, study and generalization of experience. As a result of the research, a set of competencies in the organization of the development of students with visual impairments of creative abilities based on the content of the subject “physics” is proposed.
Geographic Education for Non-Geography Students: Organization and Transformation of Content
Authors:   Transbaikal State University, Ksenia S. Kozyreva , Natalya V. Rogovskaya ,   Irkutsk State University
Published: October 2022

Despite the positive changes in the attitude towards geographical science on the part of society and the authorities, the process of the disappearance of geographical disciplines from the university curricula of non-geographic areas and specialties, which began back in the 90s of the last century, continues. The purpose of the article is to outline the main directions for updating the content and organization of geographical education in non-geographic specialties. The main general scientific method is the reflection of pedagogical experience. The second method is the design method. In updating the content of geographical education in non-geographic specialties, it is necessary to design not just targeted, but exclusive courses. Such educational “intellectual products” must be highly competitive in order to attract students from various universities in the country. Presentation and promotion of new courses is possible within the framework of a single interuniversity educational portal (platform). In this regard, the experience of existing educational platforms and electronic library systems is interesting. However, it is necessary, in our opinion, to synchronize the educational process. The creation and smooth operation of such a single platform will ensure the academic exchange of resources, the possibility of joint work of teachers and students, including the use of remote technologies, and in the presence of a system of metric indicators, a comprehensive assessment of activities. Updating the content of geographical education should take place not only through the introduction of new directions into the educational process, but also through the use of new schemes of scientific explanation in traditional courses. New explanatory schemes in geography allow you to change the content of the courses. Geography should be multi-scale, that is, cover all levels: global, national, regional and, if possible, local. Regional (the level of the subject of the Russian Federation) and local (the level of the city) remain out of sight. But relevant information that can be used in the practical activities of small and medium-sized businesses is just at these levels.
Development of the optimal dose of cytochalasine B in the MN assay in a domestic cat
Authors: KUCHTA-GŁADYSZ MARTA , GRZESIAKOWSKA ANNA , OTWINOWSKA-MINDUR AGNIESZKA , BARAN PRZEMYSŁAW , SZELESZCZUK OLGA
Published: October 2022

Cytochalasine B is an indicator in the CBMN assay, but can also be geno- or cytotoxic. The aim of the study was to determine the optimal dose of cytochalasine B for the Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus (CBMN) assay for the domestic cat. The results revealed a surprisingly high number of micronuclei (MN) in relation to the doses used. It was found that a concentration of 2.5 μg/ml is enough to obtain binuclear cells, with a minimal toxic effect on the lymphocytes of the domestic cat. In the material analysed, three forms of chromatin structure abnormalities were found. The most prevalent abnormalities were isolated micronuclei, with the mean number of binucleated cells with one micronucleus (BNCs + 1 MN) equal to 39.96 ± 9.02. Moreover, the numbers of binucleated cells with one micronucleus, nuclear buds and nucleoplasmic bridges did not differ significantly according to the sex or age of European cats.
Parasitological monitoring of European bison in the West Pomeranian voivodeship on the basis of coproscopical examination
Authors: DEMIASZKIEWICZ ALEKSANDER W. , FILIP-HUTSCH KATARZYNA , OLECH WANDA
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study was to determine the level of parasitic infections in West Pomeranian European bison on the basis of coproscopic examinations. A total of 172 faecal samples of European bison from the Mirosławiec, Drawsko and Jałowcówka herds were examined by the flotation and sedimentation methods as well as the Baermann technique. Faecal examinations revealed the presence of gastrointestinal nematode eggs belonging to the family Trichostrongylidae and the genera Nematodirus, Aonchotheca, Trichuris and Strongyloides, eggs of tapeworms of the genus Moniezia, trematodes Fasciola hepatica and Paramphistomum cervi as well as larvae of the lungworm Dictyocaulus viviparus and seven species of coccidia of the genus Eimeria (E. bovis, E. pellita, E. zuernii, E. auburnensis, E. cylindrica, E. ellipsoidalis, and E. brasiliensis). The composition of parasite species in the population of European bison in the West Pomeranian voivodeship was similar to that observed in other free-living European bison populations in Poland.
Protective effects of Nigella sativa oil against bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in rats
Authors: HATIPOGLU DURMUS , ATES MEHMET BURAK , BODU MUSTAFA
Published: October 2022

The study investigated the protective effect of Nigella sativa (NS) oil against testicular damage induced by bisphenol A (BPA). A total of 36 Wistar Albino rats were divided into 4 groups: control (1ml olive oil), NS (5 ml/kg NS), BPA (100 mg/kg BPA in 1 ml olive oil), BPA+NS (100 mg/kg BPA + 5 ml/kg NS). During the 30-day experiment, all substances were administered by oral gavage. The levels of testosterone and LH in serum, as well as MDA, GSH, SOD, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 levels in testicular tissue were measured by ELISA. Spermatological examinations and histopathological analyses of testicular tissue were also performed. BPA was found to raise LH while reducing the serum testosterone level. BPA caused a decrease in GSH, SOD, TNF-α and IL-6, but an increase in MDA and IL-10. BPA also reduced sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and acrosome membrane integrity. Oedema, hyperaemia, mononuclear cell infiltration in the interstitial tissue, as well as giant cell formations, degeneration and necrosis in the seminiferous tubules were seen in the BPA group. In addition, reductions in germinative epithelium, tubule diameter and the Johnson testicular score were noted. In rats receiving NS, hormonal profile, oxidative stress markers and cytokine levels were within normal limits. NS improved sperm motility, mitochondrial activity (JC1), plasma membrane integrity (SYBR-14) and partially acrosome membrane integrity (FITC-PNA). NS reduced testis inflammation, significantly ameliorated the testicular score and, to a lesser extent, increased germinative epithelium thickness and tubule diameter. It was concluded that NS has a protective effect against BPA-induced testicular toxicity.
Comparison of the strength parameters of the bilateral third metacarpal bones in horses by pQCT
Authors: DZIERZĘCKA MAŁGORZATA , JAWORSKI MACIEJ , KOMOSA MARCIN , ŁUSZCZEWSKA-SIERAKOWSKA IWONA , CHARUTA5 ANNA
Published: October 2022

The third metacarpal (MC3) bone, along with the proximal phalanx, is one of the bones that are most prone to injury in sport horses. To date, no detailed analysis has been conducted that would compare the strength parameters of bilateral MC3 bones taking into account differences depending on the site of measurement. The aim of the study was to compare strength parameters between the left and right MC3 bones in horses at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% of the bone length using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). The research material comprised isolated bilateral MC3 bones from 21 horses (age range: 3-27 years). The structure of these bones was measured using high-resolution pQCT. The following bone parameters were determined: polar strength strain index, strength strain index X and strength strain index Y. The computed tomographic analysis of the MC3 bones was carried out at sections from 10% to 80% (every 10%) of the bone length. The statistical analysis showed that in most cases the strength parameters calculated using pQCT were significantly higher for the right MC3 bones at 10%, 20% and 50% of the bone length, i.e. at the proximal metaphysis and at the proximal diaphysis. However, strength parameters measured at 60% and 80% of the diaphyseal length, i.e. at the distal diaphysis, were significantly higher for the left MC3 bones. Further studies of the MC3 bones parameters should focus on the vicinity of the proximal metaphysis and at the proximal diaphysis.
Monitoring of chronic wasting disease in deer in Poland between 2018 and 2020
Authors: BEŁKOT ZBIGNIEW , PIETRZYK IZABELA , JEDNOUS JULIA , DROZD ŁUKASZ , ZIOMEK MONIKA
Published: October 2022

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a lethal infectious neurodegenerative disease, the etiological factor of which is the infectious prion protein. Infections affect animals of the deer family (Cervidae). The aim of the study was to analyze the results of monitoring for the presence of CWD in the years 2018-2020 carried out by the Veterinary Inspectorate in Poland. The aim of the monitoring program in force in 2018-2020 was to assess the epizootic situation of CWD in Poland and other European countries, where no cases of the disease have been detected so far. Six species of deer were monitored: Eurasian tundra reindeer, Finnish forest reindeer, roe deer, elk, red deer, and white-tailed deer. Samples for the study were collected by veterinarians and trained persons and came from a latch within the medulla, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, tonsils, or other lymph nodes in the head. During the three-year CWD monitoring in Poland, a total of 3541 samples from animals from the deer family were examined. With regard to farmed and captive animals, the samples came from 225 red deer and 1 clump, and in the case of wild animals, the study included 192 elk, 2703 roe deer, and 420 red deer. In 2018, 1141 animals were tested: 23 farm-kept noble deer and 42 elk, 886 roe deer, and 190 wild-living noble deer. In 2019, the monitoring covered 1246 animals: 115 red deer and 1 female elk were farm animals, and the remaining 83 elk, 902 roe deer, and 145 red deer were free-living. In the last year of the program, 1154 animals were tested: 87 farmed red deer and 67 wild elk, 915 roe deer, and 85 wild deer. During the monitoring period, no cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD) of cervids were detected in Poland. The program officially ended at the end of December 2020 and was not extended because of the absence of CWD-positive results.
Evaluation of immunoreactive for glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytes in the periaqueductal gray matter of rats treated with monosodium glutamate.
Authors: KRAWCZYK ALEKSANDRA , JADWIGA JAWORSKA-ADAMU
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactive (GFAP-IR) astrocytes in the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) of rats treated with monosodium glutamate (MSG). This study was performed on PAG sections of rats treated subcutaneously with MSG (2 g/kg b.w. (group I) and 4 g/kg b.w. (group II)) and saline (group C). Immunohistochemical reactions were performed by peroxidase-antiperoxidase method using an antibody against GFAP protein. In animals receiving MSG in dorsomedial (dm) and dorsolateral (dl) parts of PAG the majority of astrocytes had GFAP-IR bodies and few thin, poorly branched protuberances. In lateral (l) and ventrolateral (vl) parts of PAG cells with numerous, branched protuberances with GFAP expression were observed. Some astrocytes in vl PAG of group II rats were characterized by strongly stained cytoplasmic bodies and thick, multiple branched protuberances. Statistically significant differences in the number of GFAP-IR astrocytes were shown between control animals and group II in dm PAG and dl PAG. All MSG-treated animals revealed statistically significantly fewer immunonegative structures for GFAP as well as all cells in the PAG.In the PAG of rats receiving MSG, especially at high dose, there is an increase in GFAP immunoreactivity in astrocytes. The hypertrophy of GFAP-IR cells and the probable lack of their proliferation may indicate isomorphic astroglia in response to increased extracellular glutamate concentrations. However, the decrease in their number in dm PAG and dl PAG may be related to MSG cytotoxicity.
Inflammatory bowel disease in dogs and cats: Authors’ observations
Authors: KUBIAK KRZYSZTOF , SPUŻAK JOLANTA , JANKOWSKI MARCIN , GLIŃSKA-SUCHOCKA KAMILA , KUBIAK-NOWAK DOMINIKA
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study is to present our observations related to the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs and cats based on clinical cases. Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of diseases characterized by chronic and/or recurring gastrointestinal signs of unknown cause. The etiology of inflammatory bowel disease in dogs and cats is not fully understood. The disease can be caused by genetic factors, abnormal reactions of the immune system, damage to the protective barrier of the mucosa, and environmental factors. Symptoms of IBD are not very characteristic, and the "gold standard" in its diagnosis is endoscopy combined with the collection of mucosa specimens for histopathological examination. The treatment of IBD may involve the use of glucocorticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, probiotics, and vitamins. Appropriate diet therapy is also important.