bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case study analysis of end of life care development: A social movement perspective
Authors: Tam Kuai In , Haycock-Stuart Elaine , Rhynas Sarah J.
Published: February 2021

Background
The modern hospice movement is often recognised as a social movement. However, such understanding is primarily based on historic reflection and this approach has lacked theoretical exploration. The modern hospice movement has not been examined by way of any social movement theory.
Aim

This study addressed the theoretical
gap in understanding the end of life care (EoLC) development in
Macao China.
Focusing on the Chinese socio-cultural context, this study explored the EoLC movement through the social movement theory, the Framing Perspective, as proposed by Snow and Benford in 1988.
Methods
A case study approach was conducted. Semi-structured interviews were held between 2012 and 2013, with pioneers (n = 11) of the EoLC in Macao. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyse the interviews.
Results
The EoLC development in Macao can be understood as a social movement. The Framing Perspective analysis illuminated that there was both growth and stagnation of the EoLC movement. Three themes emerged: 1) the suffering of people at the end of their lives was considered as a social problem needed to be addressed urgently, 2) the incoherent EoLC strategies developed by pioneers indicated the lack of internal ideological cohesion within the movement, 3) external constraints contributed to the stagnation of the movement.
Conclusions
The Framing Perspective provided a theoretical way to understand the emergence of EoLC; offering a novel perspective to conceptualise the modern hospice movement. This sociological and theoretical lens opened up new ways for future research to study the emergence of EoLC in different socio-cultural contexts.
Genetic Analysis of colorectal carcinoma using high throughput SNP genotyping technique within the population of Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Sharma Bhanu , Angurana Shabab , Bhat Amrita , Verma Sonali , Bakshi Divya , Bhat Ghulam Rasool , Amin Asif , Jamwal Rajeshwer Singh , Qadri Raies Ahmed , Shah Ruchi , Kumar Rakesh
Published: February 2021

Background
SNP genotyping has become increasingly more common place to understand the genetic basis of complex diseases like cancer. SNP-genotyping through massARRAY is a cost-effective method to quantitatively analyse the variation of gene expression in multiple samples, making it a potential tool to identify the underlying causes of colorectal carcinogenesis.
Methods
In the present study, SNP genotyping was carried out using Agena mass ARRAY, which is a cost-effective, robust, and sensitive method to analyse multiple SNPs simultaneously. We analysed 7 genes in 492 samples (100 cases and 392 controls) associated with CRC within the population of Jammu and Kashmir. These SNPs were selected based on their association with multiple cancers in literature.
Results
This is the first study to explore these SNPs with colorectal cancer within the J&K population.7 SNPs with a call rate of 90% were selected for the study. Out of these, one SNP i.e. rs2229080 of DCC was found to be significantly associated with the current study and 6 were non-significantly associated with CRC within the studied population. The allelic OR observed for the variant rs2229080 of DCC was 1.5 (1.1–2.3 at 95% CI), p value = 0.02.
Conclusion
This is the first study to find the relation of Genetic variants with the colorectal cancer within the studied population using high throughput mass ARRAY technology. It is further anticipated that the variants should be evaluated in other population groups that may aid in understanding the genetic complexity and bridge the missing heritability.
Pregnant Supports on Hemodynamics Responses during Postural Changes and Daily Physical Activities: a randomized control trial
Authors: Masodsai Kunanya , Buranapuntulug Sasipa , Jamkrajang Parunchaya , Chen Pei-Ni , Chaunchaiyakul Rungchai
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPregnant supports have been designed to prevent structural deviations but may impair blood circulation of the lower limbs, in particular during the last trimester. In this study, we evaluate the effect of different pregnant supports on hemodynamics responses during postural changes and daily physical activities.MethodsTwelve last-trimester healthy pregnant women participated in this study. With randomized supports of casual wear (CW), pelvic band (PB), and pregnant pants (PP), subjects performed postural changes (standing and side lying using sitting as control), daily physical activities (climbing up and down stairs, lifting, sit-to-stand, and 10 min walking), and routine pregnant exercises. Hemodynamic responses including heart rate, blood pressure, stroke volume, cardiac output, local blood flow, and perfusion around the ankle were measured at the end of the 1st and 3rd minute after wearing pregnant supports.ResultsStanding position in CW group showed hemodynamic compensations via increasing diastolic blood pressure (DBP, 1st minute) and heart rate (HR, 3rd minute), whereas there were no significant changes in the PB and PP groups. Side lying position lowered cardiac responses in all groups, with higher blood perfusion in CW and PB, but not in PP. Cardiac variables, blood flows, and perfusions showed no significant difference among pregnant supports during daily physical activities, and routine pregnant exercises. The satisfaction evaluation on daily activities and routine exercises showed no difference among pregnant supports but the preferential pregnant support is PB.ConclusionIt can be concluded that PB offers similar hemodynamic adjustments during postural changes as casual wear. PB support is recommended for pregnant women for daily physical activities, as well as routine exercises. Trial registration: The trial is retrospectively registered in http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th (01/02/2021) with trial no: TCTR20210201003.
The lifting force of an airplane wing when flying horizontally at high speeds. Explanation of the vortex trail.
Authors: Braginsky Alexander
Published: February 2021

In this paper, an explanation is given of the lift force of an airplane during horizontal flight. It is shown that during a flight, five vertical forces act on the airplane: gravity; pressure gradient with a minus sign; Archimedes force; potential force and the vortex force obtained from the action minimum. The first three forces were known before. The potential force was also known from the Bernoulli equation, but its effect on the airfoil from the air had not previously been taken into account. The vortex force obtained from the minimum action in the application to a continuous medium was not taken into account in aerodynamics. In horizontal flight the vortex force is directed upwards, it compensates for the gravity of the airplane at high speed commensurate with the speed of sound. The paper provides an explanation of the vortex trail behind the airplane, mentioned in the Millennium problem Navier-Stokes equation.
Compassionate use of rectal Ozone (O3) in severe COVID-19 pneumonia: a case-control study.
Authors: Fernández-Cuadros Marcos Edgar , Albaladejo-Florín María Jesús , Alava-Rabasa Sandra , Gallego-Galiana Juan , Pérez-Cruz Gerardo Fabiel , Usandizaga-Elio Isabel , Pacios Enrique , Torres-Garcia David , Peña-Lora Daiana , Casique-Bocanegra Luz , López-Muñoz María Jesús , Rodríguez-de-Cía Javier , Pérez-Moro Olga Susana
Published: February 2021

Objectives: To evaluate effect of rectal Ozone in severe COVID-19 pneumonia and to compare to Standard-of-care (SOC). Material and Methods: In a case-control study, 14 patients with severe bilateral COVID-19 pneumonia (positive RT-PCR), treated with SOC and rectal Ozone, were evaluated before-and-after treatment and compared with SOC (14 patients) in a 10 day follow-up period. Ozone-protocol consisted of 8 sessions (1 session/day) of intra-rectal Ozone, (150mL volume, 35mg/ml concentration [5.25mg total dose]). The SOC-protocol included O 2- supply, antivirals (Remdesivir), corticosteroids (Dexamethasone/Metilprednisolone), monoclonal antibodies (Anakinra/Tocilizumab), antibiotics (Azytromicine), anticoagulants (Enoxaparine) and hyperimmune serum (if necessary). Primary outcome variables: a) clinical (O 2- saturation and O 2- supply); b) biochemical (Lymphocyte count, Fibrinogen, D-Dimer, Urea, Ferritin, LDH, IL-6 and CRP); c) radiological Taylor Scale. Secondary outcome variables: a) hospitalization length-of-stay, b) mortality-rate. Results: At baseline, Ozone/SOC-groups were not different on age, comorbidities, O 2 -saturation and O 2 -supply. Patients in Ozone-Group improved O 2- saturation and decrease O 2- supply. SOC maintained O 2- saturation and required more O 2- supply. Lymphocyte-count improved only in Ozone-group and with statistical difference (p<0.05). Biomarkers of inflammation (Fibrinogen, D-Dimer, Urea, LDH, CRP and IL-6) decreased in both groups, but only significantly in favor of Ozone-group (p<0.05). Ferritin showed a significant decrease in the Ozone-group but an increase on the SOC-Group. Radiological pneumonitis decreased on both groups but the decrease was only significant in the Ozone-Group (p<0.0001). Mortality and length-of-stay, although not significant, were inferior in Ozone-Group. Conclusion: Compassionate use of Rectal Ozone improved O 2 -saturation, reduced O 2 -supply, decreased inflammation biomarkers and improved Taylor’s radiological scale significantly when compared to SOC-Group. Mortality and length-of-stay was inferior in the Ozone-group, but this difference was not significant.
Thresholds, Timing, and Teleconnections: A coupled water-power-economic analysis
Authors: Fisher-Vanden Karen , Webster Mort , Lammers Richard , Kumar Vijay , Perla Joseph
Published: February 2021

Previous studies have failed to capture critical dynamics stemming from overlapping hydrological, power, and economic networks when assessing the economic impacts of future water stress on the power system. In this paper, we employ a coupled water-power-economy model to capture these important interactions. We identified three channels that are key to assessing economic impacts – thresholds, teleconnections, and timing. We find that not all reductions in reserve electricity generation capacity result in impacts (thresholds), and that when they occur, intermittent interruptions in electricity supply occurring at critical times of the day, week, and year account for most of the economic impacts (timing). Lastly, we find that impacts may be in different locations from the original water stress (teleconnections). This work underscores the importance of a coupled modeling approach that captures interactions across systems while retaining spatial, temporal, and sectoral detail.
The Prognostic Value of Preoperative Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Levels in Patients Underwent Curative-intent Hepatectomy For Colorectal Liver Metastases: A Two-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Bai Long , Lin Ze-Yu , Lu Yun-Xin , Chen Qin , Zhou Han , Jin Ying , Wang Feng , Meng Qi , Wan Yun-Le , Pan Zhi-Zhong , Wang De-Shen
Published: February 2021

Background: The prognostic value of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in colorectal cancer patients has remained inconsistent between non-metastatic and metastatic settings. So far very few studies have included LDH in prognostic analysis for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) who underwent curative-intent hepatectomy. Patients and Methods: Consecutive metastatic colorectal cancer patients who underwent curative-intent resection for CRLM from two Chinese medical centers treated in 2000-2019 were enrolled in the training cohort (434 patients) and the validation cohort (146 patients). Overall survival (OS) was the primary endpoint. Cox regression model was performed to identify the prognostic values of LDH and other clinicopathology variables. A modification of the established Fong scoring system comprising LDH was developed within this Chinese population.Results: In the training cohort, preoperative LDH > upper limit of normal (ULN) was the strongest independent prognostic factor both for RFS (HR 2.11, 95% confidence intervals [CIs], 1.54-2.89; P < .001) and OS (HR 2.41, 95% CI, 1.72-3.39; P < .001) in multivariate analysis. 5-year survival rates were 23.7% and 52.9% in the LDH > ULN group and LDH < ULN group, respectively. These data were also confirmed in the validation cohort and then in pooled cohort. Replacing carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) with LDH in the Fong score contributed to an improvement in the predictive value.Conclusions: Preoperative serum LDH is a reliable and independent predictor for curative-intent CRLM resection. Composite of LDH and Fong score is a potential stratification tool for CRLM resection.
Photocatalytic and Photoluminescence Studies of La, Ce and Dy Co-Doped ZnO Nanoflowers
Authors: Irtiqa Syed , Rahman Atikur
Published: February 2021

In the present work, ZnO nanoparticles were doped with varying concentration of Lanthanum (La), Cerium (Ce) and Dysprosium (Dy) using a simple and cost effective co-precipitation approach at low temperatures. The resulting powders were calcined at 500 °C for 1 hour using a muffle furnace, to produce La, Ce, Dy co-doped ZnO nanoparticles with varying stoichiometry viz. Zn0.97La0.01Ce0.01Dy0.01O, Zn0.94La0.02Ce0.02Dy0.02O, Zn0.91La0.03Ce0.03Dy0.03O, Zn0.88La0.04Ce0.04 Dy0.04O and Zn0.85La0.05Ce0.05Dy0.05O. This is a simple approach for doping and doesn’t require and complex equipment, harmful chemical or sophisticated machinery. The synthesized powders were characterized using X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for studying the structure, purity, and grain morphology. The average particle size was calculated using XRD and was found to be 35 nm, it also indicated a hexagonal wurtizite structure with no secondary peaks. A change in morphology from nanorods to nanoflowers was observed as the concentration of dopants increased. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra indicated a red shift in the absorption edge towards the visible region of solar spectrum and this was further confirmed by Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (DRS). The photocatalytic properties of undoped and La, Ce, Dy co-doped ZnO nanoparticles were observed by examining the photodegradation of Rhodamine B dye under UV irradiation. Elimination of dye color indicated the total degradation of organic molecule. The results revealed that ZnO photocatalyst with La, Ce, Dy co-doping concentration Zn0.85La0.05Ce0.05Dy0.05O exhibited the best photocatalytic performance (95%) as compared to undoped ZnO. The improved photocatalytic performance can be attributed to the increased surface oxygen vacancies and adsorption capacity. Delay in recombination of charge carriers due to creation trap states in the bandgap of ZnO further improves the photocatalytic performance of doped samples.
Clinical Outcomes of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients with Renal Injury: A multi-hospital observational study from Wuhan
Authors: Chen Kehong , Lei Yu , He Yani , Xiao Fei , Yu Yan , Lai Xiaodong , Liu Yang , Wang Jiang , Dai Huanzi
Published: February 2021

Renal injury is common in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to determine the relationship of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and acute kidney injury (AKI) with the characteristics, progression, and prognosis of COVID-19 in-patients. We retrospectively reviewed 1851 COVID-19 patients admitted to 3 hospitals in Wuhan, China. Clinical, laboratory, radiological, treatment, complication, and outcome data were analyzed. Patients were stratified according to tertiles of eGFR (≥ 90 vs. 60–89 vs. <60 mL/min/1.73 m2). The risk of reaching the composite endpoint—intensive care unit admission, invasive ventilation, or death—was compared. On admission, 25.5% patients had renal impairment (eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2), but only 2.6% patients had chronic kidney disease (CKD). The overall in-hospital AKI incidence was 6.7%. Severe illness and comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, CKD, and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases) were more common among patients with low eGFR (< 90 mL/min/1.73 m2). Despite the more frequent use of intensive oxygen therapy, continuous blood purification, and glucocorticoid treatment, the prognosis of these patients was unsatisfactory, with the incidence of the composite endpoint (15.4% vs. 19.6% vs. 54.5%; P = 0.000) and complications (AKI, respiratory failure, cardiac injury, coagulation disorders, sepsis, etc.) increasing with decreasing eGFR. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 or AKI had significantly escalated risks of reaching the composite endpoint. Multivariate regression analysis showed that renal insufficiency (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 ) on admission and in-hospital AKI independently predicted poor prognosis among COVID-19 in-patients. Early and continuous renal-function monitoring and early AKI diagnosis are necessary to predict and prevent the progression of COVID-19.
Symmetrized persistency of Bell correlations for Dicke states and GHZ-based mixtures: Studying the limits of monogamy
Authors: Wieśniak Marcin
Published: February 2021

Quantum correlations, in particular those, which enable to violate a Bell inequality 1 , open a way to advantage in certain communication tasks. However, the main difficulty in harnessing quantumness is its fragility to, e.g, noise or loss of particles. We study the persistency of Bell correlations of GHZ based mixtures and Dicke states. For the former, we consider quantum communication complexity reduction (QCCR) scheme, and propose new Bell inequalities (BIs), which can be used in that scheme for higher persistency in the limit of large number of particles N. In case of Dicke states, we show that persistency can reach 0.482N, significantly more than reported in previous studies.
Energy/Exergy Conversion Factors of Low Enthalpy Geothermal Plants
Authors: Francke Henning
Published: February 2021

A geothermal heat plant is a not only a source of heat, but, in general, also a sink for relevant amounts of electricity, consumed mainly by the pump(s). This electricity demand is usually not given much attention although being decisive for operation costs, but also offering chances for demand side management as a variable consumer. From the perspective of an integrated energy system, geothermal installations basically move energy from the electricity sector into the heat sector, similar to compression heat pumps. The main heat pump performance indicator is the ratio between invested energy and useful heat, the COP. This paper transfers the COP concept to geothermal sites, by defining and determining the quantity for a selection of mostly German geothermal sites.
The lessons of COVID-19 pandemic for communicable diseases surveillance system: A qualitative study in the Kurdistan region-Iraq
Authors: Hamalaw Soran Amin , Bayati Ali Hattem , Babakir-Mina Muhammed , Takian Amirhossein
Published: February 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has revealed a series of unprecedented challenges to Communicable Disease Surveillance Systems (CDSS) globally. This study aimed to determine the opportunities of and barriers to CDSS during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the extent to which the disease integrated into the CDSS in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach was applied. We conducted 7 semi-structured interviews and one focus group discussions (FGD) with purposefully identified Key Informants (KI) from June to December 2020. All interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. We adopted a mixed deductive-inductive approach for thematic analysis of data, facilitated by using MAXQDA20 software for data management.

Results

Although the CDSS was considered appropriate and flexible, the COVID-19 was interpreted not to be integrated into the system due to political concerns. The lack of epidemic preparedness, timeliness, and partial cessation of training and supervision during the pandemic were the main concerns regarding core and support activities. The existence of reasonable surveillance infrastructure, i.e. trained staff was identified as an opportunity for improvement. The main challenges include: staff deficiency, absence of motivation and financial support for present staff, scarce logistics, managerial and administrative issues, and lack of cooperation, particularly among stakeholders and surveillance staff.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that due to political barriers, COVID-19 was not integrated into the CDSS. It also highlighted the main facilitators of and barriers to CDSS in the region. We advocate health authorities and policy-makers to prioritize the surveillance and effective management of communicable diseases.
Turning walking pneumonia into recurrent abscesses: a curious case of CVID and review of the literature
Authors: Gao David X. , Hussain Habiba , Bobber Brianna , Phan Peter
Published: February 2021

Background: common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency disorder associated with a broad symptom presentation that is still being characterized. We report a rare case of recurrent mycoplasma skin abscesses in a patient with a history of autoimmune disorders and prolonged mycoplasma pneumonia who was diagnosed with CVID.Case presentation: a 34-year-old woman presented with a history of recurrent abscesses previously confirmed positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Her past medical history of recurrent mycoplasma abscesses, prolonged mycoplasma pneumonia, and autoimmune disorders (mixed connective tissue disease and immune thrombocytopenia) raised suspicion of CVID. Workup included negative anti-mycoplasma antibody titers, hypogammaglobulinemia, and negative anti-pneumococcal antibody titers despite prior vaccination, solidifying the diagnosis of CVID. The patient was discharged on antibiotic and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy with improvement and now follows allergy and immunology long-term for treatment.Conclusions: her diagnostic history underscores the importance of considering the various criteria of CVID for diagnosis, and her unique presentation of M. pneumoniae skin abscesses highlights the broad sequelae patients with CVID can manifest.
Development and Worsening of Diabetes Among Adults Aged Over 40 Years: A 6-Year Follow-Up Study of 140,000 People in Japan – The Shizuoka Study
Authors: Nomura Shuhei , Sakamoto Haruka , Rauniyar Santosh Kumar , Shimada Koki , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kohsaka Shun , Ichihara Nao , Kumamaru Hiraku , Miyata Hiroaki
Published: February 2021

Background
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels are commonly measured during health check-ups and used as an indicator of diabetes. However, the contribution of screening tests to the prevention of the future development of diabetes is scarcely analyzed. We evaluated the relationship between HbA1c screening results and future risk of diabetes development and worsening.
Methods
We used the Shizuoka Kokuho Database, a Japanese administrative claims database of insured persons aged > 40 years. Individuals available for follow-up during 2012–2017 and who had not received any diabetes treatment before 2013 were considered. We constructed logistic regression models to evaluate the association of the likelihood of initiating diabetes treatment by 2017 with the number of health check-ups received after 2013, HbA1c levels, and trend changes at the 2013 health check-up and assess the likelihood of using injection drugs.
Results
Overall, 137,852 individuals were analyzed. Compared to the normal HbA1c Group (HbA1c < 6.5%) with no trend changes, the normal group with improving trends had higher odds (odds ratio 22.64; 95% confidence interval 14.66–34.99) of starting treatment within 4 years. Among people with diabetes treatment initiated by 2017, injection drugs were more likely used in the normal group than in the diabetes group (HbA1c ≥ 6.5%). Higher numbers of health check-ups were significantly associated with lower likelihoods of starting injection drugs.
Conclusions
Good control of HbA1c levels, as indicated by the results of the health check-ups, might have led to insufficient attention to lifestyle habits, which might have resulted in a deterioration of glycemic control.
TNF-α acutely enhances acid-sensing ion channel currents in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons via a p38 MAPK pathway
Authors: Hu Wang-Ping , Wei Shuang , Jin Ying , Liu Ting-Ting , Qiu Chun-Yu
Published: February 2021

Background

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in pain processing and hypersensitivity. It regulates not only the expression of a variety of inflammatory mediators but also the functional activity of some ion channels. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), as key sensors for extracellular protons, are expressed in nociceptive sensory neurons and contribute to pain signaling caused by tissue acidosis. It is still unclear whether TNF-α has an effect on functional activity of ASICs. Herein, we reported that a brief exposure of TNF-α acutely sensitized ASICs in rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons.

Methods

Electrophysiological experiments were performed on neurons from rat DRG. Nociceptive behaviour was induced by acetic acid in rats.

Results

A brief (5min) application of TNF-α rapidly enhanced ASIC-mediated currents in rat DRG neurons. TNF-α (0.1-10 ng/ml) dose-dependently increased the proton-evoked ASIC currents with an EC 50 value of 1.96 ± 0.15 ng/ml. TNF-α shifted the concentration-response curve of proton upwards with a maximal current response increase of 42.34 ± 7.89%. In current-clamp recording, an acute application of TNF-α also significantly increased acid-evoked firing in rat DRG neurons. The rapid enhancement of ASIC-mediated electrophysiological activity by TNF-α was prevented by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor SB202190, but not by non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, suggesting that p38 MAPK is necessary for this enhancement. Behaviorally, TNF-α exacerbated acid-induced nociceptive behaviors in rats via activation of local p38 MAPK pathway.

Conclusions

These results suggest that TNF-α rapidly enhanced ASIC-mediated functional activity via a p38 MAPK pathway, which revealed a novel peripheral mechanism underlying TNF-α involvement in rapid hyperalgesia by sensitizing ASICs in primary sensory neurons.
Performance Analysis of Free Space Optical Communication System Under Rain Weather Conditions: A Case Study for Inland and Coastal Locations of India
Authors: Singh Harjeevan , Mittal Nitin
Published: February 2021

This work aims to investigate the performance of Free Space Optical Communication link under average and worst rain weather conditions of India. The meteorological data related to rainfall, from 2014 to 2017, was obtained from the Indian Meteorological Department for six different locations of India, representing the inland and coastal areas. The attenuation coefficient due to rain for all the locations has been calculated using mathematical models. The performance analysis of Wavelength Division Multiplexing based Free Space Optical Communication system has been analyzed, by incorporating the attenuation due to rain for all considered locations, in terms of received power, signal to noise ratio, bit error rate and eye diagrams. The inland location of Hyderabad has given the best results in terms of above mentioned parameters as it has recorded minimum average rainfall of 2.35 mm/hr with minimum attenuation coefficient of 1.91 dB/km and can support a link range of 5.43 km, corresponding to bit error rate of order of 10-9 under average rain weather conditions. On the other hand, the average rainfall is maximum for the coastal area of Mumbai with a value of 7.31 mm/hr, resulting in maximum attenuation coefficient of 4.08 dB/km and the maximum link range is limited to 3.48 km, corresponding to bit error rate of order of 10-9 under average conditions of rain weather. Similarly, the inland locations of India have delivered a better link performance as compared to coastal areas under worst rain weather conditions also. So it has been concluded that the coastal areas of India have shown major degradation in the performance of the FSOC link as compared to inland locations of the country.
Comparative Immunomodulatory Efficacy of Rosemary and Fenugreek Against Escherichia Coli-Infection via Suppression of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Broilers
Authors: Farouk Sameh Mohamed , Abd-El-Rahman Haidy G. , Abdallah Osama A. , El-Behidy Nashwa G.
Published: February 2021

Broilers are frequently infected with Escherichia coli (E.Coli) bacteria, which often leads to the emergence of many diseases and high economic losses. Hence, the present study was performed to assess the comparative efficacy of dietary rosemary and fenugreek, under E.Coli-infection in broilers, via evaluation of growth performance, biochemical indices, immunological response and histo-morphological changes. Eighty Cobb broilers were allotted to four equal groups (n=20 chicks/group); control non-infected (CN), control infected (CI), rosemary infected (RI) and fenugreek infected (FI) groups. RI and FI groups showed a significant elevation in their body weight and body weight gain compared with CI group. Moreover, both groups revealed a significant decline in serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities, as well as uric acid and creatinine levels. Significant decreases of total antioxidant capacity, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were noted among CI chicks. Moreover, distinctly higher levels were evident in both RI and FI groups. Immunomodulatory markers assessment showed a significant increase in immunoglobulin G with a significant decline in interleukin-6 level in both RI and FI groups, with the lowest IL-6 value within FI group. Histopathological evaluations focused on the deleterious effect associated with E-Coli infection of broilers’ liver, kidney, intestine, spleen, bursa of fabricius, and thymus. A partial histological improvement was noticed among RI group, and nearly normal tissues were recorded in FI group. Overall, these findings suggest the ability of fenugreek to mitigate the adverse effects of E.Coli-infection on broiler performance and tissue pictures, through improvement of the chicken general health condition.
Cionin, A Vertebrate Cholecystokinin/Gastrin Homolog, Induces Ovulation in the Ascidian Ciona Intestinalis Type A.
Authors: Osugi Tomohiro , Miyasaka Natsuko , Shiraishi Akira , Matsubara Shin , Satake Honoo
Published: February 2021

Cionin is a homolog of vertebrate cholecystokinin/gastrin that has been identified in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis type A. The phylogenetic position of ascidians as the closest living relatives of vertebrates suggests that cionin can provide clues to the evolution of endocrine/neuroendocrine systems throughout chordates. Here, we show the biological role of cionin in the regulation of ovulation. In situ hybridization demonstrated that the mRNA of the cionin receptor, Cior2, was expressed specifically in the inner follicular cells of pre-ovulatory follicles in the Ciona ovary. Cionin was found to significantly stimulate ovulation after 24-h incubation. Transcriptome and subsequent Real-time PCR analyses confirmed that the expression levels of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling genes and a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gene were significantly elevated in the cionin-treated follicles. Of particular interest is that an RTK inhibitor and MMP inhibitor markedly suppressed the stimulatory effect of cionin on ovulation. Furthermore, inhibition of RTK signaling reduced the MMP gene expression in the cionin-treated follicles. These results provide evidence that cionin induces ovulation by stimulating MMP gene expression via the RTK signaling pathway. This is the first report on the endogenous roles of cionin and the induction of ovulation by cholecystokinin/gastrin family peptides in an organism.
Evaluation of the corticosteroid dose at Pneumocystis pneumonia onset in non-HIV patients receiving steroids and the period from the discontinuation of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis to the onset of Pneumocystis pneumonia
Authors: Inoue Daiki , Tamesada Hirotaka , Maetani Tomoki , Yamada Sho , Kikuchi Yujiro , Uyama Michihiro , Hayashi Yusuke , Imoto Takamitsu , Hamakawa Yoko , Kitajima Takamasa , Marumo Satoshi , Fukui Motonari
Published: February 2021

Background

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a life-threatening opportunistic infection among non-human immunodeficiency virus (non-HIV) immunocompromised patients. The prophylactic use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) reduces PCP incidence. However, it remains unclear when TMP-SMX can be safely discontinued among patients for whom corticosteroid tapering is underway, and occasionally, PCP develops after TMP-SMX discontinuation despite tapering of corticosteroids to considerably lower dose.
Methods

We retrospectively reviewed non-HIV immunocompromised patients who were diagnosed with PCP in our institution during a 12-year period (January 2007 to December 2018). We analysed the clinical information including corticosteroid doses when PCP developed and the period from TMP-SMX discontinuation to PCP onset for these patients.
Results

In all, 39 patients were included. The median patient age was 70 years (range: 27–92 years), and 18 patients (46.2%) were female. Thirty-two patients (82.1%) were administered corticosteroids. The median daily corticosteroid dose converted to the prednisolone equivalent dose was 14 mg (range: 2–60 mg). Further, six (15.4%) patients were treated with a dose of 5 mg or less. Twenty-eight patients (71.8%) were never administered TMP-SMX, and TMP-SMX was discontinued before PCP development in the remaining 11 patients. The median period from TMP-SMX discontinuation to PCP development was 95 days (range: 44–175 days), and in nine patients, PCP developed 14 ± 2 weeks after TMP-SMX discontinuation.
Conclusions

PCP developed in non-HIV patients treated with corticosteroids at doses considerably lower than the daily 20 mg prednisolone equivalent dose. Non-HIV immunocompromised patients are more likely to develop PCP approximately 3 months after TMP-SMX discontinuation.
Structural and Functional Connectivity of the Ascending Arousal Network for Prediction of Outcome in Patients with Acute Disorders of Consciousness
Authors: Enciso-Olivera Cesar O. , Ordóñez-Rubiano Edgar G. , Casanova-Libreros Rosángela , Rivera Diana , Zarate-Ardila Carol J. , Rudas Jorge , Pulido Cristian , Gómez Francisco , Martínez Darwin , Guerrero Natalia , Hurtado Mayra A. , Aguilera-Bustos Natalia , Hernández-Torres Clara P. , Hernandez José , Marín-Muñoz Jorge H.
Published: February 2021

Object: To determine the role of early acquisition of blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signals and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for analysis of the connectivity of the ascending arousal network (AAN) in predicting neurological outcomes after acute traumatic brain injury (TBI), cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA), or stroke.Methods: A prospective analysis of 50 comatose patients was performed during their ICU stay. Image processing was conducted to assess structural and functional connectivity of the AAN. Outcomes were evaluated after 3 and 6 months.Results: Nineteen patients (38%) had stroke, 18 (36%) CPA, and 13 (26%) TBI. Twenty-three patients were comatose (44%), 11 were in a minimally conscious state (20%), and 16 had unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (32%). Univariate analysis demonstrated that measurements of diffusivity, functional connectivity, and numbers of fibers in the gray matter, white matter, whole brain, midbrain reticular formation, and pontis oralis nucleus may serve as predictive biomarkers of outcome depending on the diagnosis. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a correlation of the predicted value and the real outcome for each separate diagnosis and for all the etiologies together.Conclusion: Findings suggest that the above imaging biomarkers may have a predictive role for the outcome of comatose patients after acute TBI, CPA, or stroke.
Feasibility and Acceptability of Brief Individual Interpersonal Psychotherapy Among University Students with Mental Distress in Ethiopia
Authors: Negash Assegid , Khan Matloob Ahmed , Medhin Girmay , Wondimagegn Dawit , Pain Clare , Araya Mesfin
Published: February 2021

Background: The prevalence of mental distress among university students in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) is increasing; however, the majority do not receive evidence-based psychological intervention. This calls for the provision of culturally adapted psychological therapy in higher education institutions in LMICs. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of Interpersonal Psychotherapy adapted for Ethiopia (IPT-E) among Wolaita Sodo University students and to assess the preliminary outcomes of IPT-E in reducing symptoms of mental distress and in improving functioning.Methods: We used a quasi-experimental single-group pre-post-test study design. As indicators of feasibility of IPT-E, we used consent, treatment completion and attrition. We used Client Satisfaction Questionnaire and semi-structured interview to measure the acceptability of the intervention, self-reporting IPT-E checklist to assess treatment adherence and World Health Organization Disability Assessment and Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 tools to assess functional impairment and mental distress, respectively. We used percentage, frequency, mean and standard deviation to summarize the demographic variables, feasibility and acceptability of IPT-E. We analyzed changes from pre-to post-tests of mental distress and functioning results using paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Independent sample t-test, one way-ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests used to assess the difference in mean score of in demographic variables at baseline and eight weeks. The qualitative data was analyzed with the support of open code 4.02.Results: IPT-E was feasible (consent rate = 100%; completion rate = 92.31%; attrition rate = 7.69%; mean score of the sessions = 8 and mode of the session = 8). The total mean score of treatment satisfaction was 27.83 (SD = 4.47). After the delivery of IPT-E, symptoms of mental 2 distress were decreased, functioning was improved and therapist adherence to the treatment model was 100% (i.e. treatment delivered according to the IPT-E guideline). Conclusion: IPT-E was feasible and acceptable to treat university students with mental distress in low-income country setting. The preliminary results also suggest promising viability of IPT-E in higher education institutions of low-income country setting for students with symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The Association Between the Number of Visual Fields and the Accuracy of Future Prediction in Eyes With Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Asaoka Ryo , Oishi Akio , Fujino Yuri , Murata Hiroshi , Azuma Keiko , Miyata Manabu , Obata Ryo , Inoue Tatsuya
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the minimum number of visual fields (VFs) required to precisely predict future VFs in eyes with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A series of 12 VFs (Humphrey Field Analyzer 10-2 test, (8.9 years in average) were analyzed from 102 eyes of 52 RP patients. The absolute error to predict the 12th VF using the prior 11 VFs was calculated in a pointwise manner, using the linear regression, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) range was determined. Then, using 3 to 10 initial VFs, next VFs (4th to 11th VFs, respectively) were also predicted. The minimum number of VFs required for the mean absolute prediction error to reach the 95% CI was identified. Similar analyses were iterated for the second and third next VF predictions. Similar analyses were conducted using mean deviation (MD). In the pointwise analysis, the minimum number of VFs required to reach the 95% CI for the 12th VF was 5 (first and second next VF predictions) and 6 (third next VF prediction). For the MD analysis, 3 (first and second next VF predictions) and 4 (third next VF prediction) VFs were required to reach 95% CI for the 12th VF.
Dynamic Balancing Responses in Unilateral Transtibial Amputees Following Outward-Directed Perturbations During Slow Treadmill Walking Differ Considerably for Amputated and Non-Amputated Side
Authors: Olenšek Andrej , Zadravec Matjaž , Burger Helena , Matjačić Zlatko
Published: February 2021

BackgroundDue to disrupted motor and proprioceptive function lower limb amputation imposes considerable challenges associated with balance and greatly increases risk of falling in case of perturbations during walking. The aim of this study was to investigate dynamic balancing responses in unilateral transtibial amputees when they were subjected to perturbing pushes to the pelvis in outward direction at the time of foot strike on non-amputated and amputated side during slow walking.MethodsFourteen subjects with unilateral transtibial amputation and nine control subjects participated in the study. They were subjected to perturbations that were delivered to the pelvis at the time of foot strike of either the left or right leg. We recorded trajectories of center of pressure and center of mass, durations of in-stance and stepping periods as well as ground reaction forces. Statistical analysis was performed to determine significant differences in dynamic balancing responses between control subjects and subjects with amputation when subjected to outward-directed perturbation upon entering stance phases with non-amputated or amputated side.ResultsWhen outward-directed perturbations were delivered at the time of foot strike of the non-amputated leg, subjects with amputation were able to modulate center of pressure and ground reaction force similarly as control subjects which indicates application of in-stance balancing strategies. On the other hand, there was a complete lack of in-stance response when perturbations were delivered when the amputated leg entered the stance phase. Subjects with amputations instead used the stepping strategy and adjusted placement of the non-amputated leg in the ensuing stance phase to make a cross-step. Such response resulted in significantly higher displacement of center of mass. ConclusionsResults of this study suggest that due to the absence of the COP modulation mechanism, which is normally supplied by ankle motor function, people with unilateral transtibial amputation are compelled to choose the stepping strategy over in-stance strategy when they are subjected to outward-directed perturbation on the amputated side. However, the stepping response is less efficient than in-stance response. To improve their balancing responses to unexpected balance perturbation people fitted with passive transtibial prostheses should undergo perturbation-based balance training during clinical rehabilitation.
Combined Effects of Hot Water and Eucalyptus Leaf Extract on the Storability of Cyprus Local Mandarin
Authors: Kahramanoglu Ibrahim , Aldag Seyda , Umar Kenan , Helvaci Murat , Alas Turgut , Usanmaz Serhat , Askin Mehmet , Okatan Volkan , Wan Chunpeng
Published: February 2021

Current work was conducted to evaluate the influences of hot water dipping (HWD) treatment and its combination with Eucalyptus leaves on the postharvest storability of Cyprus local mandarins. This experiment consisted of five different treatments, which are: 1) control (dipping fruits into tap water for 3 min); 2) hot water dipping (HWD) at 55 °C for 2 min; 3) hot water dipping (HWD) at 55 °C for 3 min; 4) hot water dipping (HWD) + Eucalyptus leaf (EL) at 55 °C for 2 min; and 5) hot water dipping (HWD) + Eucalyptus leaf (EL) at 55 °C for 3 min. According to the main findings of current work, HWD alone or in combination with the Eucalyptus leaf are effective for preventing the weight loss and protection of some other quality parameters. Overall all, results suggested that the incorporating Eucalyptus leaves into the HWD treatment improves the efficacy of the HWD, and makes it possible to reduce the dipping duration required for higher positive impact on the postharvest fruit quality.
High Expression of RIPK2 is Associated with Taxol Resistance in Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Shen Yuqing , Lin Hui , Chen Kelie , Ge Wanzhong , Xia Dajing , Wu Yihua , Lv Weiguo
Published: February 2021

BackgroundTaxol resistance of serous ovarian cancer is responsible for its poor prognosis, yet the underlying mechanism was still poorly understood. Thus, we probed the mechanism of taxol resistance in serous ovarian cancer with multiple bioinformatic methods to provide novel insights for potential therapy. MethodsThe differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their relationship with overall survival (OS) and progress-free interval (PFI) of ovarian cancer patients were analyzed using gene expression datasets from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The role of receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 2 (RIPK2) was validated by identifying its co-expressed genes, making function analysis and generating protein-protein network (PPI). Single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) method was used to explore the immune infiltration and genomic alterations of RIPK2 was also analyzed via cBio Cancer Genomics Portal (cBioProtal).ResultsRIPK2 was highly expressed in taxol resistant ovarian cancer cell lines, while its high expression was also linked with OS and PFI in serous ovarian cancer patients. The PPI network analysis and pathway analysis demonstrated that RIPK2 might take part in positive regulation of NF-κB transcription factor activity. Different expression level of RIPK2 was related to tumor microenvironment alteration, which might participate in formation of taxol resistance.ConclusionsOur studies suggested that high expression of RIPK2 was related to taxol resistance in serous ovarian cancer, while RIPK2 induced taxol resistance through NOD1/RIPK2/NF-κB inflammatory pathway activation and tumor microenvironment changes.
Current Practices on Diagnosis and Management of Women With Vulvodynia
Authors: Bardin Marcela Grigol , Giraldo Paulo César , Fante Júlia Ferreira , Araujo Camila Carvalho de , Cyr Marie-Pierre , Marques Andrea de Andrade
Published: February 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

: To describe clinical characteristics, previous medical assessment, past treatments and vulvar pain relief among women with vulvodynia.
Methods

Brazilian women with vulvodynia (n = 144) were assessed for vaginal infection and vulvar pain intensity by means of a cotton swab test based on a numerical rate scale (NRS). All women answered the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire and a structured instrument about present vulvar symptoms and previously experienced treatments. Vulvar pain relief achieved with previous treatments was qualified through a 4-point Likert-scale.
Results

Previous vulvar pain duration was 5.8 (± 4) years. More than 50% consulted with three or more physicians and 49% remained without a conclusive diagnosis. Diagnosis and treatment vulvovaginal infection was very common.
The most commonly used treatments were
lubricants (66%), topical anesthetics (36%) and vulvar care
techniques (36%).
All of then provided only low pain
relief.

Physical therapy and oral gabapentin provided strong vulvar pain relief.
Conclusion

Prolonged duration of vulvar pain, multiple visits to healthcare professionals and poor relief of pain are common aspects in the clinical history of women with vulvodynia. Vulvovaginal symptoms other than pain are common, highlighting the importance of the screening tests in order to avoid misdiagnosis.