bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management’s Discretionary Assessments of Goodwill Impairments—Evidence from STOXX Europe 600
Authors: Kjærland Frode , Forbord Kristian , Oust Are , Stephani Håkon
Published: May 2023

The main issues of accounting reporting regarding goodwill are whether a firm’s management reliably conveys their private information about future earnings, and whether they disclose value-relevant and useful information to accounting users. In the current International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) regulations, the goodwill impairment test is based on management’s discretionary assessments. This study examines how goodwill impairment is reported under IFRS considering company- and industry-specific economic factors, proxies for earnings management, and macroeconomic crisis years. We extend previous research using Tobit and Logit regression, by employing a fixed-effects model. This approach is possible because of a panel data set comprising 449 of 600 active companies sampled from the STOXX Europe 600 index from 2005 to 2018. We find that goodwill impairments are largely concentrated in certain companies, industries, and years. The regression models show a significant negative correlation between companies’ return on total assets and goodwill impairments. Moreover, we discover that goodwill impairments have a significant positive correlation with goodwill intensity, debt ratio, and the proxy for reporting a one-off big bath charge. In addition, we find that the global financial crisis in 2008-2009 and the European debt crisis in 2011 differ significantly from other fiscal years
Distraction and Visual Search Characteristics of Young Drivers When Using Navigation System Displays
Authors: Yared Tamer , Patterson Patrick , Mumani Ahmad
Published: May 2023

Navigation systems are considered as a fast and efficient source of road information to drivers. However, they can distract drivers with more potential accidents on the road. This study examined the effect of navigation systems on driver distraction and visual search while driving in different driving conditions. An eye-tracking system was used to collect visual search data from twenty young drivers while using a driving simulator. Several factors were investigated, including the driving environment (urban and rural), the illumination level (day and night), and the display of the navigation system (large and small) as well as their interactions. Several measures related to eye movements were used in this experiment, including percentage of total Global Positioning System (GPS) fixation duration, average duration of GPS fixation, GPS fixation frequency, the percentage of total dwell duration for the road ahead, the frequency of dwelling on the mirrors and driver’s right and left side windows, and the percentage of dwellings on the mirrors and driver’s right and left side windows. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed with repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The experiment revealed that the small GPS display creates more distraction in terms of average gaze duration and total gaze duration. Moreover, daytime driving conditions increase distraction. Regarding the driver’s visual search, the study showed that the visual search area is wider and more spread out during the day, which leads to better driving performance. This study will compare small and large navigation displays to determine which one is more effective in reducing driver distractions, and contribute to understanding driver distraction and visual search while using the navigation system display.
A Quantitative Examination of the Efficiency of a Biogas-Based Cooling System in Rural Regions
Authors: SAKA Kenan
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the efficiency of a biogas-powered cooling system through the utilization of energy and exergy calculations. Biogas, which can be generated and stored in small-scale plants as needed, serves as a viable fuel source for absorption cooling systems. The present research focuses on the biogas consumption of a triple-effect absorption cooling system, specifically designed to supply a fixed cooling load of 100 kW under varying operational conditions. The study highlights the COP (Coefficient of Performance) and ECOP (Exergetic Coefficient of Performance) values of the system, along with the exergy destruction rates of its individual components, at the optimal temperatures of operation. Furthermore, to determine the necessary biogas consumption, the study explores the establishment of dedicated farms for various animal species, ensuring an adequate number of animals for biogas production. The findings reveal a COP of 1.78 and an ECOP of 35.4% at the optimized operating temperatures. The minimum mass flow rate of biogas is determined to be 0.0034 kg/s, facilitating the operation of the boiler with a methane content of 65%. The study concludes that a total of 290 head of cattle is required to generate the annual biogas consumption necessary for the cooling system. Also, number of the cattle is enough to establish 284 biogas plants in Bursa province in Türkiye.
Behavioural Patterns of Plastic Use by Indigenes of Ho: Influ-Ence of Awareness Levels, Attitudinal Change and Legislative Frameworks
Authors: Asare Richard Kwadzo , Tulasi Ernest , Dzimale Augustine
Published: May 2023

Most research findings in Ghana and all over the globe lay much emphasis on the technical knowledge of plastics; especially giving preference to the biodegradable over the synthetic/Single-Use plastics. Questionnaires were administered to about 200 respondents in the Ho Municipality out of which 163 responses were filled and returned. Results showed that of all the variables tested only Legislative Framework has a meaningful impact on the behaviour of Ho indigenes. Awareness level: (Synthetic Plastics and Biodegradable Plastics) as well as Attitudinal Change do not influence people’s behaviour when using plastics. Findings from this study are further discussed and recommendations were proffered to instil eco-friendly behaviour among people.
Maternal Risk Factors for Congenital Vertebral Anomalies
Authors: Raitio Arimatias , Heiskanen Susanna , Syvänen Johanna , Leinonen Maarit K. , Kemppainen Teemu , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Ahonen Matti , Gissler Mika , Helenius Ilkka
Published: May 2023

Background:

The spectrum of congenital vertebral defects varies from benign lesions to severe, life-threatening conditions. The etiology and maternal risk factors remain mainly unclear in isolated cases. Hence, we aimed to assess and identify potential maternal risk factors for these anomalies. Based on previous studies, we hypothesized that maternal diabetes, smoking, advanced maternal age, obesity, chronic diseases, and medication used during the first trimester of pregnancy might increase the risk of congenital vertebral malformations.

Methods:

We performed a nationwide register-based case-control study. All cases with vertebral anomalies (including live births, stillbirths, and terminations for fetal anomaly) were identified in the Finnish Register of Congenital Malformations from 1997 to 2016. Five matched controls from the same geographic region were randomly selected for each case. Analyzed maternal risk factors included age, body mass index (BMI), parity, smoking, history of miscarriages, chronic diseases, and prescription drugs dispensed during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Results:

In total, 256 cases with diagnosed congenital vertebral anomalies were identified. After excluding 66 malformations associated with known syndromes, 190 nonsyndromic malformation cases were included. These were compared with 950 matched controls. Maternal pregestational diabetes was a significant risk factor for congenital vertebral anomalies (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 7.30 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.53 to 21.09). Also, rheumatoid arthritis (adjusted OR, 22.91 [95% CI, 2.67 to 196.40]), estrogens (adjusted OR, 5.30 [95% CI, 1.57 to 17.8]), and heparins (adjusted OR, 8.94 [95% CI, 1.38 to 57.9]) were associated with elevated risk. In a sensitivity analysis using imputation, maternal smoking was also significantly associated with an elevated risk (adjusted OR, 1.57 [95% CI, 1.05 to 2.34]).

Conclusions:

Maternal pregestational diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis increased the risk of congenital vertebral anomalies. Also, estrogens and heparins, both of which are frequently used in assisted reproductive technologies, were associated with an increased risk. Sensitivity analysis suggested an increased risk of vertebral anomalies with maternal smoking, warranting further studies.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Analisis Pemahaman Konsep Siswa Kelas IV Menggunakan Media Miniatur
Authors: Dewanti Elsa Nigia , Erviana Lina , Aristya Ferry
Published: May 2023

This study aims to determine: (1) learning science class IV using miniature media at SDN 2 Sidomulyo; (2) the understanding of fourth-grade students of SDN 2 Sidomulyo using miniature media in science learning. This type of research is descriptive qualitative research. The subjects of this study were selected by purposive sampling on the fourth-grade student of SDN 2 Sidomulyo. The object of this research is a miniature learning media in the fourth-grade science subject at SDN 2 Sidomulyo. Data collection techniques used are observation, interviews, documentation, and tests. The test is used to analyze student's understanding of science lessons. The validity of the data uses triangulation of sources, then data analysis uses the Miles and Huberman model which includes data reduction, data presentation, conclusions, and verification. The results of the study show that 1) the learning process using miniature media is very helpful for students in accepting the material given because they are actively involved in learning. 2) of 10 students in grade IV SDN 2 Sidomulyo have two levels of understanding, namely high (90%) and medium (10%).
The Uncertain Bright Future of Underground Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Jacobs Trent
Published: May 2023

The most obvious obstacles to a big ramp-up in global hydrogen production are well known. They include technological breakthroughs to bring down production costs along with new sources of demand from the power and transportation sectors.

Less obvious is that a small army of reservoir engineers, geologists, and other subsurface experts will be needed to understand where and how tomorrow’s hydrogen hubs will store their clean-burning fuel.

Bulk storage on the surface is considered by many experts to be simply out of the question. That means large hydrogen projects will need a subsurface component, and some think depleted oil and gas fields—with an emphasis on the latter—may fit the bill. Saline aquifers are being eyed for the role too.

But as this all suggests, no one has ever attempted to use these formations for hydrogen storage. Just four shallow salt formations, three salt domes in Texas and one salt field in the UK, represent the totality of the world’s hydrogen underground storage (HUS) capacity.

Research is underway to expand HUS in salt formations but that will not solve for the fact that they are not a geologic option for many locations where big industrial players are hoping to produce hydrogen. This includes most of Europe and most of the US outside of its Gulf Coast states.

By contrast, deeper sedimentary structures of various flavors are in no short supply but lack any material field experience that might help jumpstart the de-risking of storing several Bcf of hydrogen.

The upstream industry’s extensive experience in operating what are the closest analogues—natural gas storage and carbon capture and storage (CCS)—will help that process but there are new challenges when it comes to injecting the universe’s smallest molecule into porous media.

Topping the list is hydrogen’s strong propensity to migrate inside a reservoir (laterally and vertically) along with the potential for troublesome chemical and biological reactions.

Hydrogen may also be clean burning but it offers only about a third of the energy density as methane, which means it needs roughly three times the storage volume to deliver the same energy output to a gas-fired power plant.

Among those working to bring clarity to such issues is Mojdeh Delshad, a reservoir engineer and professor at The University of Texas at Austin. Her latest research involved using commercial reservoir simulators to model what would happen if selected gas fields and saline aquifers in the US used for CCS or natural gas storage were instead used to store hydrogen.

“We wanted to know about the challenges of hydrogen, which because of its properties—very low density, very low viscosity—is going to move in the reservoir much more quickly than CO2 and methane. And that’s exactly what we found, which means we’re going to have to do something differently with hydrogen storage in order to capture and produce what is injected,” said Delshad.
Review Spotlights Methane Detection, Quantification Technologies
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: May 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 205166, “Deployment of Methane Detection and Quantification Technologies,” by Noor A.A. Talip, Mohd H.M. Pikri, and Shahrul A.Z. Abidin, Petronas, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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In supporting the energy transition, a need exists to improve accurate quantification and reduction of methane emissions and determine long-term reduction targets to drive the competitive advantages of natural gas as a low-carbon fuel. The complete paper reviews an initiative taken to measure baseline data for methane emissions for gas-processing facilities and gas-transmission and regasification units through the use of accurate measurement tools and methodologies.

Introduction

A methane quantification tool has been developed in-house by Petronas, with two of the operator’s business units as the first users. Methane emission is quantified based on methane sources listed in the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative Guidelines. The quantification covers the following methane-emission sources based on applicability to sample plants:

- Unintended release (fugitive leaks, loss of primary containment)

- Intended release (venting and flaring of hydrocarbon, stationary combustion, compressor seals, and pneumatic controls and pumps)

Methane-emission volume from fugitive leaks, compressor seals, and pneumatic devices had not been quantified accurately by the operator until before the development of its methane-quantification tool. Much of the complete paper is dedicated to describing methodologies used to detect and quantify methane emissions; this synopsis identifies those methodologies but directs the reader to the complete paper for fuller discussions thereof, as well as equations used in those methodologies.

Methodology

Fugitive Leaks. Global fugitive-emission standards for quantification are nonbinding, regardless of regulations or policies. Nevertheless, the oil and gas industry is still working to develop regulations for methane-emission measurements for effective monitoring and, ultimately, setting the targets for emission reduction. The choice of methods to estimate emission depends on how the estimates will be used and the degree of accuracy required. Methods using site-specific data from direct measurement are preferred. Table 1 of the complete paper shows the fugitive-emission-quantification methodologies sorted into inclining order with respect to accuracy.

The methodology-complexity level can be depicted per the terminology in Fig. 1. The five methods are described by the authors, and detailed in the complete paper, as the following:

- Method 1: Facility-/plant-level average emission factors

- Method 2: Equipment-level average emission factors

- Method 3: Device-component-level average emission factors

- Method 4: Alternative-leak/no-leak emission factors for optical-gas-imaging technologies

- Method 5: Screened value correlation approach
Foot Dominance and Minor Physical Anomalies in Schizophrenia. Relations Between Two Biological Markers of Aberrant Neurodevelopment
Authors: AKABALIEVA KATERINA , AKABALIEV VALENTIN , SIVKOV STEFAN , KOTETAROV VASIL , BESHKOV ASEN
Published: May 2023

Background
The aim is to investigate the frequency of left foot dominance and minor physical anomalies (MPAs) in patients with schizophrenia and control subjects and to determine the relations between these two biological markers of neuronal dysontogenesis in schizophrenia.
Methods
A Combined Foot Dominance Scale consisting of two subscales - Chapman & Chapman Foot Dominance Subscale, supplemented with a new Complex Tasks Subscale, containing tasks for measuring spontaneity, precision, strength, and balance - and 7 MPAs were assessed in a sample of 180 subjects (98 schizophrenia patients and 82 controls). We introduced mean left-footedness as a new, more sensitive measure of left foot dominance in detecting a difference between subjects with schizophrenia and control subjects and enabling comparison of the important mean left-footedness sum of a whole foot set.
Results
Left foot dominance is significantly higher in subjects with schizophrenia. Left foot dominance subjects are more often associated with MPAs. There is a significant positive correlation between left-footedness and MPAs. Dextrality vs. sinistrality is not a categorical variable, but is rather expressed on a continuum due to the very complex bio-psycho-social-cultural influence on its genesis.
Conclusions
As hand dominance is under cultural pressure, left foot dominance is a useful, reliable, culturally independent indicator of altered hemispheric lateralization. Significant positive correlations between left-footedness and MPAs are an important additional evidence of the neuronal dysontogenesis in schizophrenia. The higher co-occurrence of two biological markers of dysontogenesis - left-footedness and MPAs - in one subject becomes a stronger reliable index of underlying aberrant neurodevelopment.
Trimethylamine N-oxide impairs β-cell function and glucose tolerance
Authors: Kong Lijuan , Zhao Qijin , Jiang Xiaojing , Jiang Qian , Sheng Li , peng xiaohong , Wang Shusen , Chen Yibing , Hou Shaocong , liu Xingfeng , Ma Chunxiao , Hu Jinping , Li Yan , Quan Li , Chen Liangyi , Cui Bing , LI PINGPING
Published: May 2023

β-cell dysfunction, manifested as impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), and β-cell loss, presented as dedifferentiation, inhibited transcriptional identity and death, are the hallmarks of type 2 diabetes. Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiota metabolite, has been shown to play a role in cardiovascular disease. Here, we found that plasma TMAO levels are elevated in both diabetic mice and subjects and that TMAO at a similar concentration of diabetes could directly decrease β-cell GSIS in both MIN6 cells and primary islets from mice or humans. Elevation of TMAO levels through choline diet feeding impairs GSIS, β-cell proportion, and glucose tolerance. Inhibition of TMAO production through either genetic knockdown or antisense oligomers of Fmo3, the TMAO-producing enzyme, improves β-cell GSIS, β-cell proportion, and glucose tolerance in both db/db and choline diet-fed mice. Mechanistically, TMAO inhibits calcium transients through Serca2. Additionally, long-term TMAO exposure promotes β-cell ER stress, dedifferentiation, and apoptosis and inhibits β-cell transcriptional identity. These observations elucidate a novel role for TMAO in β-cell dysfunction and maintenance, and inhibition of TMAO could be a new approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Malnutrition, sarcopenia and cachexia: exploring prevalence, overlap and perceptions in older adults with cancer
Authors: Patterson Michael , Paton Lewis , Currow David , Johnson Miriam , Bullock Alex
Published: May 2023

Background:
Older adults with cancer are a growing population requiring tailored care to achieve optimum treatment outcomes. Their care is complicated by under-recognised and under-treated wasting disorders: malnutrition, sarcopenia, and cachexia. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, overlap, and patients’ views and experiences of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and cachexia, in older adults with cancer.
Methods:
Mixed-methods study with cross-sectional study and qualitative interviews. Interviews were thematically analysed through a phenomenological lens, with feedback loop analysis investigating relationships between themes and findings synthesised using modified critical interpretative synthesis.
Findings:
n=30 were screened for malnutrition, sarcopenia, and cachexia, n=8 completed semi-structured interviews. 18 (60.0%) were malnourished, 16 (53.3%) sarcopenic, and 17 (56.7%) cachexic. One or more condition was seen in 80%, and all three in 30%. In univariate analysis, Rockwood clinical frailty score (OR 2.94 [95% CI:1.26–6.89, p=0.013]) was associated with sarcopenia, reported percentage meal consumption (OR 2.28 [95% CI:1.24–4.19, p=0.008]), and visible wasting (OR 8.43 [95% CI:1.9–37.3]) with malnutrition, and percentage monthly weight loss (OR 8.71 [95% CI:1.87–40.60]) with cachexia.
Screening tools identified established conditions rather than ‘risk’. Nutritional and functional problems were often overlooked, overshadowed, and misunderstood by both patients and (in patients’ perceptions) by clinicians; misattributed to ageing, cancer, or comorbidities. Patients viewed these conditions as both personal impossibilities, yet accepted inevitabilities.
Conclusion:
Perceptions, identification, and management of these conditions needs to improve and their importance recognised by clinicians and patients so those truly ‘at risk’ are identified whilst conditions are more remediable to interventions.
Predicting Topographic Collapse Following Lava Dome Growth Using High-Resolution PlanetScope Images in Indonesia
Authors: Saepuloh Asep , Anas Nur Ayu , Kriswati Estu , Sakti Anjar Dimara , Prambada Oktory
Published: May 2023

This study describes a rare case of lava dome growth at Mt. Ibu in West Halmahera Regency, North Maluku Province, Indonesia that filled the inner crater and even exceeded the outer crater rim at the northern flank. The lava dome growth caused concern due to the rapid volumetric change, which is usually followed by topographic collapse, producing hazardous pyroclastic flows and debris avalanches. Based on the condition of Mt. Ibu, we calculated the lava dome area and volume of Mt. Ibu using PlanetScope images and a national digital elevation model, respectively. Comparing the lava dome volume to the crater space, we tried to predict the area and time of the future topographic collapse. We calculated the time series of the lava dome volume from January 2020 to August 2022 to predict the time of the maximum volume of the outer crater rim using autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) models. According to the time series, Mt. Ibu was beyond the critical conditions for collapse when the volume of the lava dome reached the outer crater rim by approximately 0.114 km3 or an area of 1.47 km2. Then, the ARIMA and SARIMA predictions were estimated convergently, and the critical condition was predicted to be achieved in 2037. The confidence level of the ARIMA model was presented by the root mean squared error (0.008 km2) and mean absolute percentage error approximately (0.554%). Moreover, for the SARIMA model, these values were approximately 0.009 km2 and 0.397%, respectively.
Unveiling the role of metabolic rates variation in driving tumor heterogeneity and controlling growth and invasion: insights
from an integrated multiscale in-vitro in-silico framework
Authors: Akbari Mohsen , Amereh Meitham , Shojaei Shahla , Walsh Tavia , Dogra Prashant , Cristini Vittorio , Nadler Ben
Published: May 2023

The three-dimensional (3D) structure of solid tumors inherently limits oxygen and nutrient diffusion to deeper cells, resulting in morphological and metabolic variations. Non-physiological levels of oxygen and nutrients within the tumors result in heterogeneous cell populations that exhibit distinct necrotic, hypoxic, and proliferative zones. Among these zonal cellular properties, metabolic rates strongly affect the overall growth and invasion of tumors. Here we report on a hybrid discrete-continuum (HDC) mathematical framework that uses data from a biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cancer model to accurately predict cancer growth and treatment response. The mathematical model integrates the continuum field of variables with a discrete approach and incorporates the random walk method for individual cell migration. By tracking the moving boundary of tumoroids, the HDC model separates volumetric growth from invasion. Invasion direction asymmetries were incorporated into the model by involving a randomness component in cellular migration mechanisms when determining the invasion direction. The model also accounts for mechanical and cellular interactions in tumor microenvironment (TME) as key factors characterizing tumor progression. The in-vitro model is composed of tumor organoids (called tumoroids) co-cultured with healthy neurons all embedded within a hydrogel matrix. Results indicated that the HDC model quantitatively predicts volumetric growth and invasion length and tracks the finger-type invasion pattern observed in the in-vitro model. This
model has the potential to investigate inhibitory drug effects with the addition of a reaction-diffusion equation and incorporation of targeted signaling pathways in the continuum and discrete modules, respectively.
Research and design experience of Qilu Petrochemical-Shengli OilField 1 million tons/year CCUS project capture and transport unit
Authors: Lu Shijian , Yang Fei , Liu Ling , Kang Guojun , Yu Xulin , Li Qingfang , Chen Hongfu , Wu Tingyou
Published: May 2023

The background of China's first million-ton CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage) project that has been constructed is introduced, a molecular sieve dehydrating agent and MellapakPlus™ regular filler is used, the compression-condensation-purification process to recover CO2 is described, new energy-saving processes such as lithium bromide cooling water unit to recover waste heat for cooling and expansion generator unit to recover tail gas pressure energy to generate electricity are designed, and the High-pressure liquid-phase pipeline transport, proposed the layout and land area of the project, analyzed the consumption of public works of the capture system and transport system, conducted health, safety, and environmental protection instructions, proposed the analysis and testing category table, carried out energy consumption analysis and economic analysis, and the conclusion of the study shows that the project is technically and economically feasible. The study shows that the comprehensive energy consumption per unit product of the capture unit is 63.263 kg of standard oil/t CO2; the total investment (excluding tax) reported for the capture part of CO2 is 38,000,000 RMB, and the total investment (excluding tax) reported for the pipeline transportation part of CO2 is 275,727,800 RMB; the sales price (excluding tax) of the project CO2 is 194.4 RMB/t at a yield of 8%.
Latent class analysis of depressive and anxious symptoms among Chinese rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Zhu Weiyi , Wu Beiwen
Published: May 2023

Background: Depression and anxiety create additional burdens for adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), negatively affecting disease outcomes and quality of life. Therefore, this study aims to identify symptom patterns of depression and anxiety and explore the influencing factors; In addition, we want to investigate the relationships among different symptom profiles and quality of life in Chinese RA patients.
Methods: A total of 355 RA patients (including 293 females, age = 55.05 ± 13.04 years) were recruited in this study. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. We applied latent class analysis to identify distinct symptom subgroups of depression and anxiety in RA patients. The latent class subtypes were compared using the One-way ANOVA or chi-square test. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to examine associations between identified classes and related factors.
Results: We identified 3 distinct symptom patterns or classes in this study, including the high depressive and anxious symptoms, the moderate depressive and anxious symptoms and the mild anxiety symptoms. The number of RA patients in each class is 131, 72 and 152 respectively. The multinomial logistic regression revealed that compared with the mild anxiety symptoms group, the associated factors of depression and anxiety in other two subgroups were pain and functional capacity. Additionally, we found that different symptom profiles were significantly associated with quality of life in Chinese RA patients.
Conclusions: As is known to us, this is the first latent class analysis that categorized the symptom subgroups of depression and anxiety in Chinese RA patients. Our findings suggested that the main factors influencing the high and moderate depressive and anxious symptoms groups are pain and functional capacity and different symptom profiles were significantly associated with quality of life. Rheumatologists and nurses should provide targeted psychological interventions according to different symptom patterns to promote the quality of life among RA patients.
Cross-cultural adaptation and measurement properties of the Persian version of the Modified Cincinnati Knee Rating System (MCKRS)
Authors: Mirghaderi Peyman , Sajjadi Seyed Mohammad , Omid Reza , Pashapour-Yeganeh Amirreza , Nezhad Saman Ghiasi , SM Javad
Published: May 2023

Background
The Modified Cincinnati Knee Rating system (MCKRS), a brief 8-item subjective survey which provides information on the symptom and functional limitations induced by daily activities and sports and assesses patient’s satisfaction.
Purpose
to examine cross-sectional adaptation and validation of the Persian translation of modified CKRS.
Methods
Original MCKRS was translated to Persian forward and backward according to international standard guidelines. We utilized Cronbach’s alpha test, and the spearman ρ coefficient for test-retest reliability. we assessed reliability of questionnaire using Cronbach’s alpha and the spearman ρ coefficient, for test-retest reliability. A total of 101 patients completed Persian version of MKCRS and other relevant scales including: HSS-ACL satisfaction, visual analogue scale (VAS), Tegner activity score (TAS), Cincinnati and Lysholm scores.
Results
using Persian version of modified version of CKRS, the internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.9 (if item deleted: 0.81–0.86); the construct validity (Pearson’s r) varied between − 0.50 (for VAS pain) and 0.79 (for Lysholm); the reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient) varied between 0.82–0.97; in addition, no ceiling or floor effect was present.
Conclusion
The Persian Modified Cincinnati knee rating system has adequate measurement properties and is considered a valid and reliable instrument which can identify clinical outcomes after ACLR surgery
Value of magnetic resonance angiography before prostatic artery embolization for intervention planning
Authors: Boschheidgen Matthias , Ullrich Tim , Al-Monajjed Rouvier , Ziayee Farid , Michalski Rene , Steuwe Andrea , Minko Peter , Albers Peter , Antoch Gerald , Schimmöller Lars
Published: May 2023

Knowledge about anatomical details seems to facilitate the procedure and planning of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) in patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPS). The aim of our study was the pre-interventional visualization of the prostatic artery (PA) with MRA and the correlation of iliac elongation and bifurcation angles with technical success of PAE and technical parameters. MRA data of patients with PAE were analysed retrospectively regarding PA visibility, PA type, vessel elongation, and defined angles were correlated with intervention time, fluoroscopy time, dose area product (DAP), cumulative air kerma (CAK), contrast media (CM) dose and technical success of embolization. T-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and Kruskal-Wallis test was applied for statistical analysis. MRA identified the PA origin in 126 of 147 cases (accuracy 86%). Vessel elongation affected time for catheterization of right PA (p = 0.02), fluoroscopy time (p = 0.05), and CM dose (p = 0.02) significantly. Moderate correlation was observed for iliac bifurcation angles with DAP (r = 0.30 left; r = 0.34 right; p = 0.01) and CAK (r = 0.32 left; r = 0.36 right; p = 0.01) on both sides. Comparing the first half and second half of patients, median intervention time (125 vs. 105 min.) and number of iliac CBCT could be reduced (p < 0.001). We conclude that MRA could depict exact pelvic vessel configuration, identify PA origin, and might obviate iliac CBCT. Vessel elongation of pelvic arteries increased intervention time and contrast media dose while the PA origin had no significant influence on intervention time and/or technical success.
Effect of medical treatment on outcome of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in patients followed in University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK)
Authors: Bonane Alex , Nyirimodoka Alexandre , Hategekimana Theobald , Bizumuremyi Yves Constantin , Niyonkuru Jean Marie Vianney , Rickard Jennifer
Published: May 2023

Background The management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) requires careful approach. The initial choices in the management of LUTS due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia include watchful waiting, pharmacotherapy and surgical intervention. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of medical therapy on adult male patients with LUTS secondary to BPHMethods It was a prospective observational study for a period of 1year of men over 40 years with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms due to BPH diagnosed clinically. The enrollment was done through the out-patient clinic of urology unit and a follow up at 1,3 and 6months was done. We recorded variables like, Post-void residual urine (PVR), Prostate size, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), medication taken, etc. We described clinical and demographic characteristics using mean, standard deviation (SD), median, interquartile range (IQR), frequency, and percentage. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between medical treatment and the outcomes of interestResults A total of 163 patients were enrolled. Their mean age were 68years(SD = 8.6), The adherence to treatment was 151/154 (98.05%) in month 1 and 133/151 (88.08%) in month 6. The reason of no adherence was ignorance in 11/17(64.7%); drug was not available 3/17(17.6%), and 2/17(11.8%) were lucking money. Taking both monotherapy and combined therapy were associated with decrease in IPSSS score of more than 4points after 3 months and the relationship was statistically significant after adjusting to the initial prostate size as a confounder (pValue = 0.01(OR = 59.2) and pValue = 0.02(OR:13.8) respectively. The medical treatment was associated with mean decrease in PVR of 61ml and 94ml respectively after 3 months and 6months. The latter association was statistically significant in a bivariate analysis (pValue: 0.03 at 3month and pValue:0.04 at 6months).Conclusion medical treatment for BPH was associated with a significant reduction in IPSS after 3 months, which was consistent after 6 months. The reduction in PVR was observed after 3 and 6 months, but the relationship was not statistically significant after adjusting for the baseline IPSS score.
Genetic variability and divergence studies on seed traits and L-dopa content of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. accessions
Authors: PATEL SWETAL THAKORBHAI , Azeez Musibau A , Krishnamurthy R.
Published: May 2023

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. belongs to the Fabaceae family and is widely distributed across the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Seeds of Mucuna are the industrially important source of natural L-dopa. The present study is intended to screen out the superior Mucuna germplasm which can be utilized for commercial cultivation. A total of 59 accessions of M. pruriens (L.) DC. were collected from various geographical locations across India and evaluated for seed-associated agronomic traits and L- dopa content in the seed. Morphological observations of seed samples revealed a wide variation in seed color pattern including complete white, black and striped/mottled. Quantitative traits such as 100 seed weight (90.30-150.59gm), seed length (5-19.3 mm), width (2.66-13.00 mm), thickness (0.90–8.67 cm), length width ratio (1.17–2.26), length thickness ratio (1.50–7.40), width thickness ratio (0.89-6.00) seed geometric diameter (2.34–12.60 mm), arithmetic mean diameter (2.88–13.33 mm), seed sphericity (41.89–78.75), seed surface area (17.19-498.51 mm2) and L-dopa content (1.79–6.05%) were evaluated in order to compare the features of the accessions collected from different places. The inter-association between morphological observations and L-dopa content was measured using principal component analysis and Ward’s hierarchical clustering, as these are of vital importance in selecting the best accession of velvet bean for breeding programs.
Health care providers’ perceived barriers to providing breastfeeding support in Northwest rural China
Authors: Wu Jiao-Jiao , Zhang Qing-Ning , Liao Su-su , Li Jiang-hong , Zhang Jian-duan , Huang Jing-zhi
Published: May 2023

Background
Health care providers have been playing important roles in supporting breastfeeding. Although there has been insufficient actual breastfeeding support from health care providers in China, little research has been conducted to understand Chinese health care providers’ perceived barriers to providing breastfeeding support, especially in rural China. This study aimed to identify health care providers’ perceived barriers to providing breastfeeding support in Northwestern rural China.
Methods
A total of 41 health care providers were recruited by purposive sampling in two Northwest rural counties in China. These included obstetrician-gynecologists, midwives, nurses, village doctors, and township and village maternal and child health workers. Data were collected using semi-structured, one-on-one in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with qualitative design. Transcripts were thematically analyzed.
Results
Data from the interviews revealed four themes that the participants perceived as barriers in supporting breastfeeding. The four themes include: (1) lack of medical resources, (2) unclear responsibility designation at the individual level, (3) incompetency of health care providers, and (4) difficulty in accessing mothers.
Conclusions
Multiple barriers were perceived by health care providers in providing breastfeeding support. The specific breastfeeding support roles of different health care providers who serve for women and children need to be further clarified. Skillful training and technical support on breastfeeding are needed to match different health care providers’ specific responsibilities. The approaches of mobile health-based interventions to support breastfeeding can be explored in the future.
Influence of bleaching gels formulated with nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate and fluoride on the physicochemical, mechanical, and morphological properties of dental enamel
Authors: Gruba Amanda Scarpin , Nunes Gabriel Pereira , Marques Mariana Takatu , Danelon Marcelle , Alves Renata de Oliveira , de Toledo Priscila Toninatto Alves , Briso André Luiz Fraga , Delbem Alberto Carlos Botazzo
Published: May 2023

Objectives
To evaluate in vitro the effects of sodium fluoride (F) and nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMPnano) added to a 35% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) bleaching gel on the color alteration, enamel mechanical and morphological properties, and H2O2 transamelodentinal diffusion.
Materials and Methods
Bovine enamel/dentin discs (n = 180) were divided according to the bleaching gel: 35% H2O2 (HP); 35% H2O2 + 0.1% F (HP/F); 35% H2O2 + 1% TMPnano (HP/TMPnano); 35% H2O2 + 0.1% F + 1% TMPnano (HP/F/TMPnano) and 35% H2O2 + 2% calcium gluconate (HP/Ca). The gels were applied 3 times by 40 min; once each 7-day. Color alteration (ΔE and ΔE00), whitening index (ΔWID), surface (SH) and cross-sectional hardness (ΔKHN), surface roughness (Ra), and transamelodentinal diffusion were determined. Enamel surfaces were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Dispersive Energy (EDX). Data were submitted to ANOVA, followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.05).
Results
ΔE, ΔE00, and ΔWID were similar among the evaluated gels that produced a bleaching effect after enamel pigmentation (p < 0.001). Mineral loss (SH and ΔKHN), Ra, and H2O2 diffusion were lower for HP/F/TMPnano; the HP and HP/Ca groups presented the highest values (p < 0.001). For SEM/EDX, surface changes were observed in all bleached groups, but less intense with TMPnano.
Conclusions
Gels containing F/TMPnano do not interfere with the bleaching effect and reduced enamel demineralization, roughness, H2O2 diffusion, and morphological changes.
Clinical Relevance:
Whitening gels containing F/TMPnano can be used as a new strategy to increase safety and maintain clinical performance.
New immunomodulatory anticancer quinazolinone based thalidomide analogs: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation
Authors: Ward Maged Al , Abdallah Abdallah E. , Zayed Mohamed , Ayyad Rezk , El-Zahabi Mohamed
Published: May 2023

As an extension to our previous work for the development of new thalidomide analogs, the current work offers new insights into the immunomodulatory and anticancer activities of quinazolinone based molecules carrying a glutarimide moiety. The findings confirmed some previous findings and revealed some new information. Among the newly synthesized compounds, compounds 7d and 12 showed considerable immunomodulatory properties in comparison to thalidomide. 7d and 12 significantly reduced TNF-α levels in HepG-2 cells from 162.5 pg/mL to 57.4 pg/mL and 49.2 pg/mL, respectively compared to 53.1 pg/mL reported for thalidomide. Moreover, they caused 69.33% and 77.74% reduction in NF-κB P65, respectively, compared to 60.26% reduction for thalidomide. Similarly, they reduced VEGF from 432.5 pg/mL to 161.3 pg/mL and 132.8 pg/mL, respectively, in comparison to 153.2 pg/mL reported for thalidomide. The two new derivatives, 7d and 12 also showed about 8-fold increases in caspase-8 levels in cells treated with them. These results were slightly better than those of thalidomide. The obtained results revealed that Compound 12 had better immunomodulatory properties than thalidomide, with stronger effects on TNF-α, NF-B P65, VEGF, and caspase-8. Accordingly, this work indicates that compound 12 has interesting biological properties that should be further evaluated and modified in order to develop clinically useful thalidomide analogs.
Association of Coffee and Caffeine Intake with Risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Epidemiological Observational Study
Authors: Liao Wan-Zhe , Li Jia-Xin , Feng Wei-Yi , Xiao Jia-Qi , Wang Zi-Xun , Xie Shuo-Jia , Zhu Xiao-Feng , Hu Yi-Ming , Mao Jun-Hao , Huang Ze-Min , Guan Wei-Jie , Guo Xu-Guang
Published: May 2023

Objectives This investigation aimed to examine the correlation between coffee and caffeine intake with the risk of COPD and lung function based on NHANES 2007–2012.Materials and Methods Exposure variables were established as coffee and caffeine consumption, while the risk of COPD and lung function were considered as the outcome variables. Other covariates were deemed potential confounders. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the NHANES to determine a definitive correlation between exposure variables and outcome variables.Results Multivariable regression models revealed positive associations between coffee and caffeine consumption and the risk of COPD and lung function. Subgroup analyses, stratified by sex, DM, hypertension status, and smoking habits, identified potential effect modifiers, as well as infection points from threshold effect examinations.Conclusions The results of this cross-sectional study indicated significant positive associations between coffee and caffeine consumption and the risk of COPD. Additionally, positive associations between exposure variables and FEV1 and FVC were discovered. Among the stratification factors, smoking status exhibited the most potential for modifying effects.
In silico prediction and experimental validation of MIR17HG long non-coding RNA, MIR17HG-derived miRNAs and GPC5 expression profile in Breast Cancer
Authors: Shahraki Reyhane Alidousti , Rahmani Saeid , Shafaroudi Afsaneh Malekzadeh , Sharifi-Zarchi Ali , Nafissi Nahid , Mowla Seyed-Javad
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND Breast cancer as one of the most causes of cancer-related mortality in women has attracted the attention of researchers. Recently, biological biomarkers play important roles in the early diagnosis of breast cancers in clinics. They considered non-invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and play an important role in the prevention of tumor development.OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate lnc RNA MIR17HG which is the host gene for generating miR17-92 cluster. We employed bioinformatics and experimental approaches to evaluate the expression level of variants of lnc RNA MIR17HG and its derived miRNAs (miR18a-5p and miR20a-5p) and also its neighbor gene (GPC5). In addition, we evaluated the correlation of candidate genes to predict the similarity function of targeted genes in breast tumors and finally, we surveyed the efficacy of selected genes as new potential diagnostic biomarkers in discriminating against breast cancer patients and non-cancerous.METHODS We used bioinformatic tools to analyze TCGA data in order to predict results at the first step. The expression levels of candidate genes were assessed within tumors and adjacent normal tissues by qRT-PCR. Their impacts as diagnosis breast cancer biomarkers were evaluated by ROC curve analysis. The relation of candidate genes is also evaluated by Pearson's correlation coefficients.RESULTS According to our findings, MIR17HG and its derived miRNAs showed up-regulation and GPC5 showed down-regulation in BC. They also have a positive linear correlation in breast tumors and could discriminate between cancer and non-cancerous breast tissues.CONCLUSIONS Our data analysis showed differentially expressed of MIR17HG and its derived miRNAs and GPC5 in breast tissues compared to adj-normal tissue. Also, we demonstrate a linear correlation between candidate genes. In addition, selected genes can potentially act in discriminating tumor tissues and adj-normal tissue as breast cancer diagnosis biomarkers.