bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple disc herniation in spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda: A rare case report and review of the literature
Authors: Chen Zan , Zhang Zheyi , Ye Fei , Lei Fei , Feng Daxiong
Published: December 2022

Background

Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda (SEDT) is a rare, hereditary, X-linked skeletal disorder. To our knowledge, there are few reports about orthopedic surgery in these patients. This is the first report on patients with SEDT undergoing spinal and fracture reduction surgery.

Case presentation

A 31-year-old male patient who had been misdiagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) for 20 years and who had been treated with femoral shaft internal fixation for lower extremity fracture caused by minor trauma presented at hospital with stiffness and weakness in the lower extremities for the past two years. Radiographs showed bony dysplastic features of flattened vertebral bodies, Scheuermann-like changes in the spine, and osteoarthritis-like changes in the joints. Laboratory examination, including routine blood tests and rheumatism-related indicators showed negative results. Considering the history, radiology, and genetic findings, a diagnosis of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda with progressive arthropathy (SEDT-PA) was considered. Further neurological examination indicated that severe spinal cord compression was an important reason for the patient’s inability to walk. Laminectomy, spinal canal decompression, internal fixation and fusion were performed. Clinical outcome was satisfactory at one-year follow-up. The lower-limb fatigue was relieved, the patient could walk independently, and his examination showed osseous fusion. The English database was searched and the literature was reviewed for the relevant keywords of “SEDT-PA”.

Conclusions

Progress has been made in genetic research on SEDT; early diagnosis is particularly important, but the clinical diagnosis and treatment plans are still evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The best treatment for SEDT is to identify patients with progressive neurological and joint-mobility impairments and perform appropriate surgical intervention. Surgical intervention can improve neurological function and quality of life. However, surgery, as palliative care, does not alter the progression of the disease.
Serum uric acid/creatinine ratio and free androgen index are synergistically associated with increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome in obese women
Authors: El-Eshmawy Mervat M , Ibrahim Asmaa , Bahriz Rania , Shams-Eldin Nermeen , Mahsoub Nancy
Published: December 2022

Background

Features of metabolic syndrome such as abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension and dyslipidemia are commonly encountered in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Recent evidence has suggested an association between high serum uric acid/creatinine (UA/Cr) ratio and metabolic syndrome however, no studies have investigated this association in PCOS. The current study was conducted to investigate the relationship between UA/Cr ratio and PCOS and to identify whether UA/Cr ratio and free androgen index (FAI) have an additive interaction for detection of PCOS risk in obese women.

Methods

This study enrolled 40 obese women with PCOS and 40 control women with regular menstrual cycles matched for age and body mass index (BMI). Anthropometric measurements, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipids profile, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone, free androgen index (FAI), UA/Cr ratio were assessed.

Results

Serum UA/Cr ratio was significantly higher in obese women with PCOS than in non-PCOS women. UA/Cr ratio was correlated with BMI, waist and neck circumferences, blood pressure, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, lipids, LH/FSH, estradiol, DHEAS, total testosterone, FAI and SHBG. UA/Cr ratio and FAI were independent risk factors for PCOS in obese women however, the addictive interaction between UA/Cr ratio and FAI had a higher fold risk (OR: 4.3, 95% CI, 3.4–7.58) and a more significance (P = 0.002) for determination of PCOS.

Conclusion

Serum UA/Cr ratio combined with FAI can exert an additive or synergistic impact on prediction of PCOS in obese women.
The association of quality contraceptive counseling measures with postabortion contraceptive method acceptance and choice: results from client exit interviews across eight countries
Authors: Acre Valerie N. , Dijkerman Sally , Calhoun Lisa M. , Speizer Ilene S. , Poss Cheri , Nyamato Ernest
Published: December 2022

The availability of a variety of modern contraceptive methods is necessary but insufficient to provide a high-quality contraceptive service to postabortion clients. Women, especially young women, must be empowered to make informed choices about which methods they receive, including whether to use contraception following an abortion service. In this study, we conducted 2,488 client exit interviews with abortion clients after their induced abortion service or postabortion care visit in Ipas-supported health facilities in eight countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, and Uganda. We evaluated the quality of postabortion contraceptive counseling across two domains of contraceptive counseling: information exchange and interpersonal communication. We measured the association between these quality elements and two outcomes: 1) client-perceived choice of contraceptive method and 2) whether or not the client received a modern contraceptive method. We examined these relationships while adjusting for sociodemographic and confounding variables, such as the client feeling pressure from the provider to accept a particular method. Finally, we determined whether associations identified differ by age group: under 25 and 25+. Information exchange and interpersonal communication both emerged as important counseling domains for ensuring that clients felt they had the ability to choose a contraceptive method. The domain of information exchange was associated with having received a contraceptive method for all abortion clients, including young abortion clients under 25. Nearly 14% of clients interviewed reported pressure from the provider to accept a particular contraceptive method; and pressure from the provider was significantly associated with a client’s perception of not having a choice in selecting and receiving a contraceptive method during her visit to the facility. Improving interpersonal communication, strengthening contraceptive information exchange, and ensuring clients are not pressured by a provider to accept a contraceptive method, must all be prioritized in postabortion contraceptive counseling in health facilities to ensure postabortion contraceptive services are woman-centered and rights-based for abortion clients.
Using the Implementation Research Logic Model to design and implement community-based management of possible serious bacterial infection during COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia
Authors: Tiruneh Gizachew Tadele , Nigatu Tsinuel Girma , Magge Hema , Hirschhorn Lisa Ruth
Published: December 2022

Background

Community-based treatment of possible serious bacterial infection (PSBI) in young infants, when referral to a hospital is not possible, can result in high treatment coverage and low case fatality. However, in Ethiopia, the coverage of PSBI treatment remains low, worsened by COVID-19. To understand the challenges of delivery of PSBI treatment and design and test adaptative strategies to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on neonatal mortality, we did implementation research (IR) employing Implementation Research Logic Model (IRLM). In this paper, we describe IRLM application experiences in designing, implementing, and evaluating strategies to improve community-based treatment of PSBI during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia.

Methods

This IR was conducted between November 2020-April 2022 at Dembecha and Lume woredas of Amhara and Oromia regions, respectively. We employed narrative reviews, formative assessment and facilitated stakeholder engagement to develop the PSBI treatment IRLM to identify barriers, understand the conceptual linkages among determinants, choose implementation strategies, elicit mechanisms, and link to implementation outcomes. In addition, we used the IRLM to structure the capture of emerging implementation challenges and resulting strategy adaptations throughout implementation.

Results

This IR identified COVID-19 and multiple pre-existing contextual factors. We designed and implemented implementation strategies to address these challenges. These adaptive strategies were implemented with sufficient strength to maintain the delivery of PSBI services and improve mothers’ care-seeking behavior for their sick young infants.

The IRLM offers us a clear process and path to prioritize implementation challenges, choose strategies informed by mechanisms of action, and where the adaptive implementation of community-based management of PSBI would lead to high-implementation fidelity and change in mother behavior to seek care for their sick young infants. The IRLM was also an effective tool for stakeholder engagement, easily explained and used to structure discussion and decision-making during co-design meetings.

Conclusions

The use of the IRLM helps us to specify the conceptual links between the implementation challenges, strategies, mechanisms of action, and outcomes to explore the complex community-based management of PSBI during complex contexts to improve high-fidelity implementation and integration of PSBI treatment in the primary healthcare delivery systems through active engagement of stakeholders.
Natural essential oils as a new therapeutic tool in colorectal cancer
Authors: Garzoli Stefania , Alarcón-Zapata Pedro , Seitimova Gulnaz , Alarcón-Zapata Barbara , Martorell Miquel , Sharopov Farukh , Fokou Patrick Valere Tsouh , Dize Darline , Yamthe Lauve Rachel Tchokouaha , Les Francisco , Cásedas Guillermo , López Víctor , Iriti Marcello , Rad Javad Sharifi , Gürer Eda Sönmez , Calina Daniela , Pezzani Raffaele , Vitalini Sara
Published: December 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most revalent type of cancer in the world and the second most common cause of cancer death (about 1 million per year). Historically, natural compounds and their structural analogues have contributed to the development of new drugs useful in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer. Essential oils are natural odorous products made up of a complex mixture of low molecular weight compounds with recognized biological and pharmacological properties investigated also for the prevention and treatment of cancer. The aim of this paper is to highlight the possible role of essential oils in CRC, their composition and the preclinical studies involving them. It has been reviewed the preclinical pharmacological studies to determine the experimental models used and the anticancer potential mechanisms of action of natural essential oils in CRC. Searches were performed in the following databases PubMed/Medline, Web of science, TRIP database, Scopus, Google Scholar using appropriate MeSH terms. The results of analyzed studies showed that EOs exhibited a wide range of bioactive effects like cytotoxicity, antiproliferative, and antimetastatic effects on cancer cells through various mechanisms of action. This updated review provides a better quality of scientific evidence for the efficacy of EOs as chemotherapeutic/chemopreventive agents in CRC. Future translational clinical studies are needed to establish the effective dose in humans as well as the most suitable route of administration for maximum bioavailability and efficacy. Given the positive anticancer results obtained from preclinical pharmacological studies, EOs can be considered efficient complementary therapies in chemotherapy in CRC.
Using social media for health education and promotion: a pilot of WeChat-based prize quizzes on China national malaria day
Authors: Wang Yi , Li Chengyuan , Zhang Jiayao , Yang Mengmeng , Zhu Guoding , Liu Yaobao , Cao Jun
Published: December 2022

Background

Imported malaria cases remains a key health concern, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing accurate health information is important to improving people’s awareness of malaria. WeChat is an excellent social media tool for health information dissemination, especially during the pandemic. This study explored the effect of malaria knowledge dissemination via a WeChat public account.

Methods

A questionnaire for data collection was constructed using the online survey tool Sojump. Questionnaires were sent to users who followed the Jiangsu institute of Parasitic Disease WeChat public account during the National Malaria Day 2021 period. A small incentive (WeChat Red Packet) was distributed to everyone who answered the questionnaire correctly on time.

Results

A total of 13,169 valid questionnaires were collected during the China National Malaria Day period. Questions in which participants focused mainly on information pertaining to themselves, such as infection, symptoms, and epidemic areas, reached highest accuracy (above 90%). Questionnaires were submitted through smartphones and most of them were completed during the period of 4 days from April 23 to April 26, 2021 when a WeChat Red Packet was offered. The accuracy of responses was related to bolded words and location and number of knowledge points that were shown at the beginning of the questionnaire. The number of users of the WeChat public account in question increased from 5961 to 12,339 in just 4 days of the activity.

Conclusion

A WeChat public account is a convenient and accessible tool for spreading malaria-related health information to the public. Distribution of incentives (Red Packets) can effectively increase public attention to popular science and health information and activities.
Rare renal cell carcinoma with haemangioblastoma-like features and leiomyomatous stroma: report of a unique case with TSC2 and SETD2 variations
Authors: Kong Jixia , Tao Juan , Wang Qimin , Zhang Qingfu , Yin Liying
Published: December 2022

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with haemangioblastoma-like characteristics is a type of RCC reported in recent years. RCC with (angio) leiomyomatous stroma (RCCLMS) was included as a provisional entity of the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification. RCC with haemangioblastoma-like characteristics and leiomyomatous stroma is extremely rare. This is the first report of a rare tumour harbouring TSC2 and SETD2 variations.

Case presentation

The patient was a 38-year-old woman who presented with discomfort in the area of her right kidney. Ultrasound and enhanced CT showed a right renal mass, and clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) was suspected; hence, robot-assisted laparoscopic nephron-sparing partial nephrectomy was performed. Gross examination revealed a well-circumscribed tumour measuring 2.0 cm × 1 cm × 0.7 cm under the renal capsule adjacent to the stripping edge that was greyish yellow and greyish red in colour. Histologic examination showed that the tumour consisted of three different structures: a CCRCC-like region, a haemangioblastoma-like region, and a focal leiomyomatous stroma component. Based on immunohistochemistry, the CCRCC-like region was diffusely strongly positive for AE1/AE3, vimentin, CAIX, PAX8, PAX2, CK7, and CAM5.2, partly positive for HNF1α, and negative for CD10, α-inhibin, NSE, S-100, CD34, and TFE3. The haemangioblastoma-like area was diffusely positive for vimentin, CAIX; partly positive for PAX8, PAX2, α-inhibin, and S-100; mostly positive for NSE; and slightly positive for HNF1α; the CD34 staining highlighted the complex capillary network. The Ki67 index was approximately 1–2% in the two above areas, and the leiomyomatous stroma was strongly positive for SMA. The whole-exon sequencing (WES) showed TSC2 and SETD2 variations. There was no progression after 18 months of follow-up.

Conclusion

We report for the first time a unique case of RCC with haemangioblastoma-like features and leiomyomatous stroma accompanied by rare molecular abnormalities. Whether this is a new tumour entity or a variant of clear cell carcinoma remains to be determined. The biological behaviour and clinical characteristics need to be further examined.
Kinin B1 receptor blockade attenuates hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension in chronic liver diseases in mice
Authors: Rampa Dileep Reddy , Feng Huiying , Allur-Subramaniyan Sivakumar , Shim Kwanseob , Pekcec Anton , Lee Dongwon , Doods Henri , Wu Dongmei
Published: December 2022

Background and aims

Kinin B1 receptors (B1Rs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrosis. This study examined the anti-fibrotic effects of B1R blockade with BI 113823 in two established mouse models of hepatic fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection or bile duct ligation (BDL). The mechanisms underlying the protection afforded by B1R inhibition were examined using human peripheral blood cells and LX2 human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).

Methods

Fibrotic liver diseases were induced in mice by intraperitoneal carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection for 6 weeks, and by bile duct ligation (BDL) for 3 weeks, respectively. Mice received daily treatment of vehicle or BI 113823 (B1R antagonist) from onset of the experiment until the end of the study.

Results

B1Rs were strongly induced in fibrotic mouse liver. BI 113823 significantly attenuated liver fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH), and improved survival in both CCl4 and BDL mice. BI 113823 significantly reduced the expression of fibrotic proteins α-SMA, collagens 1, 3, 4, and profibrotic growth factors PDGF, TGFβ, CTGF, VEGF, proliferating cell nuclear antigen; and reduced hepatic Akt phosphorylation in CCl4- and BDL-induced liver fibrosis. BI 113823 also reduced expression of Cytokines IL-1, IL-6; chemokines MCP-1, MCP-3 and infiltration of inflammatory cells; and inhibited human monocyte and neutrophil activation, transmigration, TNF-α & MPO production in vitro. BI 113823 inhibited TGF-β and B1R agonist-stimulated human-HSC activation, contraction, proliferation, migration and fibrosis protein expression, and inhibited activation of PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.

Conclusions

B1Rs merits consideration as a novel therapeutic target for chronic liver fibrosis and PH.
Experiences of using a digital tool, the D‐foot, in the screening of risk factors for diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Zügner Roland , Jarl Gustav , Sundberg Leif , Tang Ulla Hellstrand
Published: December 2022

Background

Individuals living with diabetes run an increased risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), leading to high costs to society and reduced quality of life for the individual. Regular screening is important to avoid complications.

Aim

To evaluate patients' and clinicians' experiences of using a digital tool, the D‐Foot, in the screening of risk factors for developing DFUs. The secondary aims were to investigate whether patients had had their feet examined by a nurse or doctor during the past year, had been referred to podiatry and whether patients had received information about self‐care.

Methods

A prospective study was carried out, comprising 90 patients with diabetes visiting a Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics (DPO). Two Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists (CPOs) were included, and they assessed foot status and the risk of developing DFUs with the D‐Foot software, prior to prescribing footwear. The quality of services at the DPO was assessed by the patients using the Orthotics and Prosthetics Users' Survey (OPUS). The CPOs answered the System Usability Scale (SUS) before and after the study to assess the usability of the D‐Foot.

Results

No patient had risk grade 1. One (1%) patient had risk grade 2, 78 (87%) patients had risk grade 3 and 11 (12%) patients had risk grade 4. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction on eight of ten OPUS items and the two items with lower scores were not related to the use of the D‐Foot. The two CPOs reported levels above the mean regarding usability both before (77.5 and 90) and after (70 and 97.5) using the D‐Foot.

Conclusions

Patients expressed a high level of satisfaction with the services when their feet were examined with the D‐Foot prior to the provision of footwear. The CPOs found that the D‐Foot system was usable. Several comments were made by patients and CPOs and will support the future development and testing of the D‐Foot. There is a need to increase referrals for preventive podiatry and improve information on self‐care for patients at risk of DFUs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04054804.
Predictive clinical utility of pre-hospital point of care lactate for transfusion of blood product in patients with suspected traumatic haemorrhage: derivation of a decision-support tool
Authors: Griggs J. E. , Lyon R. M. , Sherriff M. , Barrett J. W. , Wareham G. , ter Avest E. ,   Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Pre-hospital emergency medical teams can transfuse blood products to patients with suspected major traumatic haemorrhage. Common transfusion triggers based on physiological parameters have several disadvantages and are largely unvalidated in guiding pre-hospital transfusion. The addition of pre-hospital lactate (P-LACT) may overcome these challenges. To date, the clinical utility of P-LACT to guide pre-hospital blood transfusion is unclear.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients with suspected major traumatic haemorrhage attended by Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) between 8 July 2017 and 31 December 2019. The primary endpoint was the accuracy of P-LACT to predict the requirement for any in-hospital (continued) transfusion of blood product.

Results

During the study period, 306 patients with suspected major traumatic haemorrhage were attended by KSS. P-LACT was obtained in 194 patients. In the cohort 103 (34%) patients were declared Code Red. A pre-hospital transfusion was commenced in 124 patients (41%) and in-hospital transfusion was continued in 100 (81%) of these patients, in 24 (19%) patients it was ceased. Predictive probabilities of various lactate cut-off points for requirement of in-hospital transfusion are documented. The highest overall proportion correctly classified patients were found for a P-LACT cut-point of 5.4 mmol/L (76.50% correctly classified). Based on the calculated predictive probabilities, optimal cut-off points were derived for both the exclusion- and inclusion of the need for in-hospital transfusion. A P-LACT < 2.5 mmol/L had a sensitivity of 80.28% and a negative likelihood ratio [LR−] of 0.37 for the prediction of in-hospital transfusion requirement, whereas a P-LACT of 6.0 mmol/L had a specificity of 99.22%, [LR−] = 0.78.

Conclusion

Pre-hospital lactate measurements can be used to predict the need for (continued) in-hospital blood products in addition to current physiological parameters. A simple decision support tool derived in this study can help the clinician interpret pre-hospital lactate results and guide pre-hospital interventions in the major trauma patient.
Ultrasound imaging of bone fractures
Authors: Cocco Giulio , Ricci Vincenzo , Villani Michela , Delli Pizzi Andrea , Izzi Jacopo , Mastandrea Marco , Boccatonda Andrea , Naňka Ondřej , Corvino Antonio , Caulo Massimo , Vecchiet Jacopo
Published: December 2022

Ultrasound imaging is widely used to evaluate the neuromusculoskeletal system, and recently, a particular interest is mounting in assessing the bone tissue and fractures. Ultrasound can be considered a valuable diagnostic tool to perform a first-line evaluation of bone tissue, especially in particular settings without direct access to X-ray imaging and/or in emergency conditions. Moreover, different healing phases of bone fractures can be accurately assessed by combining the B-mode modality and (high-sensitive) color/power Doppler optimizing the management of patients—e.g., planning of progressive loads and rehabilitation procedures. In this review, we summarized the role of ultrasound imaging in the management of bone fractures and described the most common sonographic signs encountered in the daily practice by assessing different types of bone fractures and the progressive phases of the healing process.
An algorithm to classify homologous series within compound datasets
Authors: Lai Adelene , Schaub Jonas , Steinbeck Christoph , Schymanski Emma L.
Published: December 2022

Homologous series are groups of related compounds that share the same core structure attached to a motif that repeats to different degrees. Compounds forming homologous series are of interest in multiple domains, including natural products, environmental chemistry, and drug design. However, many homologous compounds remain unannotated as such in compound datasets, which poses obstacles to understanding chemical diversity and their analytical identification via database matching. To overcome these challenges, an algorithm to detect homologous series within compound datasets was developed and implemented using the RDKit. The algorithm takes a list of molecules as SMILES strings and a monomer (i.e., repeating unit) encoded as SMARTS as its main inputs. In an iterative process, substructure matching of repeating units, molecule fragmentation, and core detection lead to homologous series classification through grouping of identical cores. Three open compound datasets from environmental chemistry (NORMAN Suspect List Exchange, NORMAN-SLE), exposomics (PubChemLite for Exposomics), and natural products (the COlleCtion of Open NatUral producTs, COCONUT) were subject to homologous series classification using the algorithm. Over 2000, 12,000, and 5000 series with CH2 repeating units were classified in the NORMAN-SLE, PubChemLite, and COCONUT respectively. Validation of classified series was performed using published homologous series and structure categories, including a comparison with a similar existing method for categorising PFAS compounds. The OngLai algorithm and its implementation for classifying homologues are openly available at: https://github.com/adelenelai/onglai-classify-homologues.
Free-surface elastic wave injection and wavefield reconstruction with applications to elastic reverse time migration
Authors: Han Bingkai , Xie Xiao-Bi
Published: December 2022

Accurately injecting and extrapolating multicomponent seismic data is a major step in elastic reverse time migration (RTM) and full-waveform inversion. The theoretical basis of this process is the seismic representation theorem. We propose a numerical approach based on the collocated-grid MacCormack finite-difference (FD) scheme to implement the injection and extrapolation. The MacCormack FD scheme defines wavefield parameters on the same grid. When dealing with the boundary condition in the representation theorem, it is more advantageous than the commonly used staggered-grid FD scheme which defines the stress and velocity on offset grids; thus, interpolations are required to link the boundary values to nearby nodes. In contrast, with the MacCormack scheme, the traction and particle velocity data can be directly injected into the boundary nodes as equivalent concentrated forces, force dipoles, and double couples. The accuracy of this approach is validated by comparing the regenerated wavefield with the original wavefield. Our primary purpose is to develop an injection method for elastic RTM, but this approach also can be used to numerically investigate other interesting issues in the elastic wave injection, including errors and artifacts caused by injection from unclosed boundaries, incomplete boundary values, and uncertain velocity models. In particular, seismic data are usually acquired on the ground surface where the traction-free condition is naturally maintained. We simulate a land acquisition scenario by generating a synthetic multicomponent data set on a traction-free surface. The reconstructed wavefields from velocity data are compared with the original forward-propagated waves to evaluate the accuracy of the boundary treatments. Two multicomponent elastic RTM examples are presented to demonstrate the applications of the proposed injection method. By combining the regenerated receiver-side wavefield and the vectorized imaging condition, the PP, PS, SP, and SS images are calculated.
Building adjoint operators for least-squares migration using the acoustic wave equation
Authors: Lu Shaoping , Wu Han , Dong Xintong , Zhong Tie , Qiu Lingyun , Li Xiang , Deng Xiaofan , Gao Rui
Published: December 2022

Seismic imaging can be solved as an inversion problem, which can be implemented as a least-squares migration (LSM). Compared with conventional migration algorithms, an LSM can produce imaging results with enhanced illumination and resolution. However, solving an inversion problem faces difficulties in convergence, stability, and computational efficiency. To address these issues, efforts have been spent on examining the key elements in an LSM, including the modeling operators, the migration operators, the inversion solvers, etc. Advanced modeling operators are developed to accurately simulate the seismic data. Innovative migration algorithms are implemented to precisely compute the subsurface image. Fast inversion solvers are used to improve computation efficiency. Although all these techniques are robust to improve the LSMs, they often are studied independently. It is not often considered whether these elements are properly combined when used in an LSM. We have constructed LSMs with adjoint modeling and migration operators, and we develop algorithms to prepare input shot data for these LSMs.
Causal Association Between Obesity, Circulating Glutamine Levels, and Depression: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: He Ruixin , Zheng Ruizhi , Zheng Jie , Li Mian , Wang Tiange , Zhao Zhiyun , Wang Shuangyuan , Lin Hong , Lu Jieli , Chen Yuhong , Xu Yu , Wang Weiqing , Xu Min , Bi Yufang , Ning Guang
Published: December 2022

Context

Observational studies indicated obesity and glutamatergic dysfunction as potential risk factors of depression, and reported disturbance of glutamine metabolism in obese state. However, it remains unclear whether the interrelationships between obesity, glutamine, and depression are causal.

Objective

We conducted 2-sample bidirectional mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to explore the causalities between circulating glutamine levels, specific depressive symptoms, major depressive disorder (MDD), and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

Univariable MR, multivariable MR (MVMR), and linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSR) analyses were performed.

Results

Genetic downregulation of glutamine was causally associated with MDD, anhedonia, tiredness, and depressed mood at the false discovery rate (FDR)-controlled significance level (estimate, −0.036 ∼ −0.013; P = .005 to P = .050). Elevated BMI was causally linked to lower glutamine level (estimate, –0.103; P = .037), as well as more severe depressed mood, tiredness, and anhedonia (estimate, 0.017 ∼ 0.050; P < .001 to P = .040). In MVMR analysis, BMI was causally related to depressed mood dependently of glutamine levels. Conversely, it showed limited evidence supporting causal effects of depression on glutamine levels or BMI, except a causal association of tiredness with elevated BMI (estimate, 0.309; P = .003). LDSR estimates were directionally consistent with MR results.

Conclusion

The present study reported that higher BMI was causally associated with lower glutamine levels. Both obesity and downregulation of glutamine were causally linked to depression.
COVID-19 e Contratos de Concessão: Problemas e Alternativas sob a ótica da Análise Econômica do Direito
Authors: Engelman Wilson , Vieira Lucas Pacheco , Puerari Adriano Farias
Published: December 2022

O presente artigo explora os problemas e alternativas decorrentes dos impactos da pandemia de COVID-19 sobre os contratos de concessão no Brasil. Depois de apresentar os marcos normativos sobre concessões e algumas cláusulas contratuais pertinentes à matéria, promove-se análise dos potenciais problemas e alternativas presentes e futuros que serão enfrentados no âmbito dos contratos de concessão por força dos efeitos provocados pela crise do SARS-CoV-2, sob o marco teórico da Análise Econômica do Direito, especificamente da Teoria dos Custos de Transação.
The consistency approach for the substitution of in vivo testing for the quality control of established vaccines: practical considerations and progressive vision
Authors: Dierick Jean-Francois , Halder Marlies , Jungbaeck Carmen , Lorenz Julie , Préaud Jean-Marie , Riou Patrice , Tesolin Lorenzo , Uhlrich Sylvie , Van Molle Wim , Vandeputte Joris
Published: December 2022

The aim of this letter is to share the discussions and proposals made by the VAC2VAC consortium on how to support the deployment of the “Consistency Approach” for quality control of established vaccines and thus facilitate the substitution of in vivo testing. This work answers specific questions about “ what does a control strategy according to the consistency testing look like” and “ how to submit a control strategy defined according to the consistency testing”. Some topics were answered in a very straightforward manner. This was the case when the deployment of the consistency approach and the corresponding changes in vaccines control strategy was supported by the generic application of procedures already described in regulatory guidelines/requirements and related to the establishment or change in the control strategy of vaccines. The application of other procedures required more specific attention and some were deeply debated before reaching a proposal. The key outcomes of this work are that robust science must be used to develop a substitution strategy and generate supportive data packages. And this good science can best occur with good scientific collaboration between the different parties involved. Therefore, early interaction between manufacturers and competent authorities before and during dossier submission is critical to success. The consistency approach, when approved and in place, will ensure vaccine products of assured quality reach the patient in a more efficient manner than when relying on in vivo testing. Adapting the mindset was one of the major hurdles to a progressive vision but there is now consensus between manufacturers and competent authorities to foster the elimination of in vivo testing for routine vaccine release testing.
Synthesis and physical characteristics of narrow bandgap chalcogenide SnZrSe3
Authors: Kondrotas Rokas , Juškėnas Remigijus , Krotkus Arūnas , Pakštas Vidas , Suchodolskis Artūras , Mekys Algirdas , Franckevičius Marius , Talaikis Martynas , Muska Katri , Li Xiaofeng , Kauk-Kuusik Marit , Kravtsov Victor
Published: December 2022

Background: The development of organic/inorganic metal halide perovskites has seen unprecedent growth since their first recognition for applications in optoelectronic devices. However, their thermodynamic stability and toxicity remains a challenge considering wide-scale deployment in the future. This spurred an interest in search of perovskite-inspired materials which are expected to retain the advantageous material characteristics of halide perovskites, but with high thermodynamic stability and composed of earth-abundant and low toxicity elements. ABX3 chalcogenides (A, B=metals, X=Se, S) have been identified as potential class of materials meeting the aforementioned criteria.

Methods: In this work, we focus on studying tin zirconium selenide (SnZrSe3) relevant physical properties with an aim to evaluate its prospects for application in optoelectronics. SnZrSe3 powder and monocrystals were synthesized via solid state reaction in 600 – 750 °C temperature range. Crystalline structure was determined using single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction methods. The bandgap was estimated from diffused reflectance measurements on powder samples and electrical properties of crystals were analysed from temperature dependent I-V measurements.

Results: We found that SnZrSe3 crystals have a needle-like structure (space group – Pnma) with following unit cell parameters: a=9.5862(4) Å, b=3.84427(10) Å, c=14.3959(5) Å. The origin of the low symmetry crystalline structure was associated with stereochemical active electron lone pair of Sn cation. Estimated bandgap was around 1.15 eV which was higher than measured previously and predicted theoretically. Additionally, it was found that resistivity and conductivity type depended on the compound chemical composition.

Conclusions: Absorption edge in the infrared region and bipolar dopability makes SnZrSe3 an interesting material candidate for application in earth-abundant and non-toxic single/multi-junction solar cells or other infrared based optoelectronic devices.
Modeling and control of a chaotic process
Authors: Tolkachev Akim
Published: December 2022

The article investigates problems related to the control of the dynamics of a system given by the Henon map with a hysteresis component included in it. In particular, possible modifications of the limit set (attractor) of the modified Henon map under hysteresis conditions are studied. The hysteresis element is formalized based on design approach by means of the Preisach model, which is approximated by a system consisting of a finite set of non-ideal relays. To analyze the dynamics, numerical simulation is carried out for various values of the model parameters, which are characterized by chaotic dynamics. For this purpose, a Python script has been developed that simulates the dynamics of the system under hysteresis conditions, and also processes the results to identify dynamic modes. Based on the data obtained, a comparative analysis of strange attractors of the modified and classical Henot mappings is carried out. Next, we study the dynamics depending on the parameters of the modified Henon map. To detect various dynamic regimes, bifurcation diagrams were plotted, the high Lyapunov exponent was calculated based on the Rosenstein algorithm and the 0-1 test was produced depending on the system parameters, and the hysteresis nonlinearity parameter. Established, that hysteresis term regularize dynamics of the system compared to the classical map and changed in the position of bifurcation points in the space of system parameters.
Analysis of the dealer car service spare range using the FP-Growth algorithm
Authors: Evdokimova Svetlana , Frolov Kirill , Novikov A.
Published: December 2022

In the current conditions of instability and a rapidly changing economy, mathematical methods and intelligent information technologies used in making managerial decisions in various fields play an important role. It is especially necessary to approach carefully the process of securing stocks of products sold, which is necessary for the profit of a car service company. The company in its activity requires a wide range of cars spare parts. The lack of necessary parts can provoke a long downtime of cars waiting for the technical maintenance or the customer's refusal from service. Excess parts that have not been sold for a long time require increased storage costs. In this article, the FP-Growth algorithm is used to analyze the range of cars spare parts for dealer car service company, which solves the problem of finding associative rules. This task is based on searching in a large volume of source data for relationships in the form of if X, then Y. The FP-Growth algorithm differs from other methods of searching for associative rules by the procedure of constructing a tree of variants of sets of objects, which allows to reduce the search for possible variations and reduce the number of iterations. To implement the proposed algorithm, the Loginom Community analytical system was used. As a result, sets of spare parts were identified, often used together in the current repair of cars.
Blood Flow Restriction Training – An Intervention to Counteract Muscle Loss Caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Oliveira Ricardo B. de , Cardozo Gustavo Gonçalves , Lopes Karynne G.
Published: December 2022

ntroduction: Physical inactivity is a major unintended consequence of the social distancing imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Increased physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors have profound physiological impacts on muscular health,leading to muscle and strength losses that are associated with lowerperformance and higher mortality rates. In the so-called “new normal”, exercise routines must find alternative ways to replace high-intensity resistance exercises,since resources are limited in home environments. Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a low-intensity training method involving compressive pressure of the vasculature by use of a tourniquet cuff in the proximal portion of the upper and lower limbs. BFR has been demonstrated to be a safe and efficient training modality to promote muscle and strength gains in different groups, including those under musculoskeletal rehabilitation, young and older adults, and athletes. Objective: This review aims to show that BFR training is an effective intervention for counteracting losses of muscle mass and function caused by Covid-19. Methods: A review of the scientific literature was conducted on electronic databases, such as PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science, covering the period 2000–2020. Results: We advocate the use of BFR training as an urgent counteracting intervention to prevent muscle and strength losses during social distancing and propose a progressive home-based protocol based on wide array of literature. Conclusion: This evidence can help practitioners, personal trainers, physical therapists, and physician assistants to implement an alternative exercise routine that may prevent the deleterious physiological effects of physical inactivity on muscle function during intermittent social distancing.
Professional Certifications of a University Master’s Degree and Employability: Impact on Students’ Perception
Authors: Peón David , Martínez-Filgueira Xosé-Manuel , Rodríguez-Gómez José-Luís
Published: December 2022

Professional certifications represent for many university degrees, especially postgraduate degrees, a recognition of their academic quality and the future employability of the graduates. This article contributes to the analysis of the impact of external accreditations on students’ perception of employability and satisfaction. We offer a case of study, a Master of Science (MSc) in Banking and Finance that became the first academic degree in Spain to obtain the two professional accreditations required for employees in financial institutions since 2019. A survey to a sample of students who graduated two academic years before and two years after the MSc was recognised is used to measure students' motivations for enrolment and satisfaction. The results provide significant evidence that professional accreditation became a key motivation for students to enrol the master, is associated with a more diverse geographical origin of students, and students highlight the higher quality and better coordination of the teaching staff.
Students’ Attitude Towards Ruanguji Mobile-Based Assessment: An Explanatory Case Study in Tangerang, Indonesia
Authors:   Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Farkhan Muhammad , Azwar Muhammad ,   Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta
Published: December 2022

This qualitative study aims to unveil the junior high school students’ attitude towards Ruanguji mobile-based assessment. It uses an explanatory case study design engaging 225 students in Tangerang, Indonesia as the respondents. To analyze the data got by the questionnaire, the study uses the multi-component model of attitude and one-dimensional perspective. The study reveals that their attitude towards Ruanguji comprises the cognitive, affective, and behavioral components with different degree. For the students, Ruanguji is a supplementary media offering various tests and assignments to help them face the national examination. With the application, they feel convenient to prepare themselves for the examination. If they have chances, they will use it to explore testing materials and assignments. Their attitude is identified as a positive one that impedes the existence of the negative one. Its positivity degree is determined by internal factors, like their perception and emotion; and external factors, like the application’s user-friendliness. In addition, their positive attitude towards the application also contributes to their success in their school’s summative tests and national examination. The result of the study leads to the conclusion that a positive attitude towards the mobile assessment can be a determinant factor of their success in the study.
Panoramic annular image restoration algorithm by prediction based on the lens design characteristics
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Huang Yunhan , Bao Sheng , Liu Zhiying
Published: December 2022

A panoramic annular lens optical system is important in circumferential detection. However, a panoramic annular image (PAI) has severe tangential and radial distortion. This study proposes a3σguideline-based method, which determines the unwrapping center point of the PAI, and a prediction method based on the lens design characteristics according to the intrinsic distortion of the PAL to correct, respectively, the tangential distortion and the radial distortion. The proposed methods can ensure the restoration ability and simplify the dependence on experimental conditions. The experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method, thus enabling future panoramic optical image detection.
Phase flicker-induced sharpness deterioration on 2D holographic displays with digitally driven phase-only LCoS devices
Authors: Wu Weijie , Chang Xin , Pivnenko Mike , Chu Daping
Published: December 2022

Phase flicker in liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) devices can decrease the effective phase modulation resolution by introducing overlapped phase oscillations between adjacent modulated gray levels, thus degrading the performance of LCoS devices in various applications. However, the effect of phase flicker on a holographic display is often overlooked. From an application angle, this paper investigates the quality of the holographic reconstructed image, especially sharpness, under the static and dynamic effects of different flicker magnitudes. Both the simulation and experimental results reveal that the increment in the magnitude of phase flicker causes an equal sharpness deterioration with the reduction of the numbers of hologram phase modulation levels.
Machine learning enhanced next-generation optical access networks—challenges and emerging solutions [Invited Tutorial]
Authors: Wong Elaine , Mondal Sourav , Ruan Lihua
Published: December 2022

Optical access networks are envisioned to become increasingly complex as they support more and more diverse and immersive services, each with a different capacity, latency, and reliability need. While machine learning has been touted as a silver bullet that will intelligently manage network operations and resources to meet these demands, as it had been anticipated for core and metro networks, there exist various challenges that need to be addressed to progress machine learning models from research to production. In this tutorial, we first aim to motivate the continued push to advance optical access networks and rationalize the use of machine learning in these networks. We then highlight the challenges that are especially amplified due to the traffic dynamicity and heterogeneity, data scarcity, and computation-resource constraints of optical access networks. We discuss emerging machine learning approaches that are being explored to address these challenges. Finally, we consider a fast and self-adaptive machine learning enhanced dynamic bandwidth allocation scheme in an illustrative future use case of supporting immersive human-to-machine communications over the mobile fronthaul of next-generation mobile networks.